Perinatal mood disorders are a group of mental health conditions that can occur during the early
months or years after a pregnant woman’s pregnancy. They include post-traumatic stress disorder
(PTSD), major depression, and anxiety. Frequently, these conditions go undiagnosed and untreated,
which can lead to significant long-term consequences for both mother and child.
There is still much we don’t know about perinatal mood disorders, but what is known so far suggests
that they are common and often severe. In fact, one study found that up to 50% of women experience
at least one symptoms of a perinatal mood disorder in the year following their delivery. And sadly, this
percentage increases if the woman was not married when she became pregnant or if her marriage
ended during pregnancy or childbirth.
What can be done to help prevent perinatal mood disorders from developing?
You may not be able to prevent these disorders from occurring, but you can prevent them from
escalating by getting them diagnosed and treated as soon as possible. You can also learn coping
strategies to help you manage them effectively.
If you think you may have any type of mental health condition related to your pregnancy or childbirth –
or even just some general signs of distress- visit your doctor immediately! It’s important to get
treatment before things get too out of hand -and potentially damaging for both you AND your baby
down the road!
If you want to find out if counseling could help you identify the issues, cope with and treat any disorders
you might be experiencing, contact us today to schedule your complimentary session.
