What is perinatal mental health?

The perinatal period is generally considered to start at the beginning of trying to conceive, continuing through the first year postpartum. This timeframe can look different for everyone and with every pregnancy due to many factors, such as how long it takes to conceive, the occurrence of one or more miscarriages, and gestational age at time of birth, among others. 

You may have heard of people calling mental health challenges during this period “postpartum depression,” “postpartum,” or “PPD.” The terminology has been updated to Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (“PMAD”) to reflect the broader array of symptoms that many people experience.

Perinatal (during pregnancy or postpartum period)

Mood (bipolar, depression, psychosis)

Anxiety (Generalized Anxiety Disorder, panic, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder) 

Disorders (makes daily functioning more challenging)

While these disorders can happen during any time of someone’s life, there is an increased risk during the perinatal period with symptoms having unique presentations. PMADs can impact anyone, they do not discriminate, and socioeconomic status or economic background are not protective factors. In fact, approximately 1 in 5 women and 1 in 10 men experience postpartum depression.

So what can you do? 

Early identification and intervention is key. Talk to your healthcare provider and your child’s healthcare provider, about being screened for PMADs. This process often starts with a simple assessment that you fill out (PHQ-9, GAD-7, or EPDS). You can also speak with a therapist about any concerns you may have. 

Planning ahead can also be helpful. Consider creating a postpartum support plan that includes managing your typical to-do list, meal planning, creating a to-do list for visitors, and setting sleep hygiene goals. If possible, discuss a plan for practical support with friends and family to assist with childcare, cooking, and housework. Oftentimes, there are social support groups available in-person or online, with some provided by Postpartum Support International. 

If you are interested in support during this perinatal period, please feel free to reach out to Victoria via email at victoria@granderpeacecounseling.com or on https://www.granderpeacecounseling.com/victoria-hallgren. Victoria has virtual and in-person therapy openings in St Paul, Minnesota. 

PSI HelpLine: 1-800-944-4773 

US National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: 1-833-852-6262 

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988

Information and statistics gathered from Postpartum Support International.