Understanding Perinatal Mental Health and PMADs

by Sumaiyah Cummings, MSW

Understanding Perinatal Mental Health During the Perinatal Period

The perinatal period is widely referred to as the time frame that includes the duration of pregnancy and ends about a week after childbirth. Some definitions of the perinatal period also include a short time frame prior to pregnancy. For many women, this period is a dynamic experience marked by both physical and emotional changes. The life-altering event of bringing life into the world can be a joyous time as well as a very challenging one, and this duality can often feel confusing and overwhelming for the expectant mother. During this time, it is crucial for the expectant mother, her healthcare providers, and her support system to be aware of the perinatal mental health challenges that arise during and after this time period.

Perinatal Mental Health: What Are PMADs?

Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) refer to a set of symptoms that can affect women from the pre-partum to postpartum period. These disorders include but are not limited to depression, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Although a history of depression, anxiety, or other related mental health issues may increase the risk of developing a mood disorder during the perinatal period, PMADs do not have a singular cause. Therefore, understanding PMADs is crucial for anyone preparing for pregnancy, expecting a baby, or supporting someone in the perinatal period.

Emotional and Physical Changes and Their Impact on Perinatal Mental Health

It is typical for many women to experience a variety of changes to their mood, sleep patterns, emotions, and eating habits during and after pregnancy. These changes can include but are not limited to feeling more irritable or tense, getting more or less sleep than usual, or worrying about the safety of their unborn child. Some women also experience weepiness or difficulty falling asleep. These mild changes are expected during pregnancy and in the postpartum period and are typically not a cause for concern. However, if these changes persist or become more severe, it may be beneficial to seek additional support.

Baby Blues or Something More? Recognizing Perinatal Mental Health Concerns

Many people are familiar with the term “baby blues,” which refers to some of the mood changes that mothers experience in the postpartum period. Baby blues are very common and are caused by the hormonal and chemical changes that occur after birth. Exhaustion, crying, anxiety, irritability, and restlessness are some of the primary symptoms of baby blues. Because baby blues are so common, many women expect to experience these changes and may be unaware that their symptoms could indicate something more significant. What differentiates baby blues from a mood or anxiety disorder is the severity and timeline of symptoms. Here are some key indicators that you may be experiencing something more serious than baby blues:

• Having thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
• Difficulty performing activities of daily living, such as eating or completing everyday chores
• Symptoms that persist or worsen beyond two weeks
• Loss of pleasure or interest in daily living
• Excessive crying and depressed mood
• Feeling intense guilt, shame, and/or hopelessness

The Importance of Awareness for Perinatal Mental Health

Developing an awareness of these symptoms can be lifesaving and can decrease the stigma surrounding perinatal mental health. If you or someone you know is experiencing one or more of these symptoms, it may be beneficial to seek additional support. Unfortunately, the social pressures impacting women during the perinatal period may lead to shame, worry, and guilt, discouraging many women from seeking the support they need. The expectation to have a smooth, easy pregnancy places additional strain on women who are already experiencing an incredibly vulnerable time in their lives.

How Societal Expectations Affect Perinatal Mental Health

The postpartum period comes with even more idyllic expectations. While some may be understanding of a woman experiencing a difficult pregnancy, they may be less forgiving about a less-than-perfect transition into motherhood. The journey to caring for a new life is not an easy one. From feeding and soothing to sleepless nights with a needy newborn, life for a new mom is incredibly rigorous. On top of supporting a newborn’s needs, a new mom must still find time to care for herself, which can feel like an insurmountable task. The unrealistic expectations placed on women to have a perfect pregnancy and postpartum experience are incredibly damaging and can result in women feeling too ashamed to seek the support they need and deserve. Without proper treatment and support, PMADs can have life-altering consequences for mothers, newborns, and family systems. Therapists and other mental health providers who specialize in perinatal mental health can provide the necessary support to navigate the perinatal and postpartum periods.

Why Prioritizing Perinatal Mental Health Matters

While adjustment to parenthood can be overwhelming and at times difficult to manage, it is so important to prioritize physical and mental health throughout the journey. It is significantly more difficult to care for the life of a newborn baby if you are not caring for yourself. It is never too late to ask for the help you need.

Seeking Support for Perinatal Mental Health Challenges

If you or someone you know is experiencing PMAD symptoms, reach out to a healthcare provider or mental health professional. Awareness and understanding of perinatal mental health are essential steps in breaking the stigma and ensuring mothers get the care they need.

InnerVoice Psychotherapy & Consultation, with locations in Chicago, IL, and Skokie, IL, offers counseling services for individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma and other mental health concerns. Reach out to one of our licensed professionals today and begin your journey toward healing and well-being.