Perinatal & Postpartum Support
Pregnancy and new parenthood: a joyful experience and also a very challenging time.
What is perinatal mental health?
Many people ask, 'Isn't it just postpartum depression?' Actually, perinatal mental health encompasses a mother's mental health experience from the start of pregnancy through the first year after birth. According to Postpartum Support International, perinatal mental health disorders can 'affect not only the pregnant person but also other family members, including partners.'
Perinatal mental health includes various diagnoses that describe new parents' experiences. While this time can be incredibly rewarding, we also recognize it can be challenging. Remember, it's okay to have mixed feelings about motherhood - you can appreciate the joys while acknowledging the difficulties. We're here to support you through all aspects of this journey, without judgment.
“Strength in parenthood isn't about perfection; it's about seeking help when needed.”
You don't have to face life's obstacles alone. Resilience Therapy: Your partner in personal growth
Our founder and lead therapist, Alexis Sturnick, recently completed her training in Perinatal Mental Health from Postpartum Support International and is now certified to support this specific population. A new mom herself, she understands the mix of emotions and experiences that come with having a baby and wants to break the stigma of discussing the difficult parts of birth and new parenthood.
Nurturing inner strength for lasting change
Mental Health Disorders that fall under “Perinatal Mental Health*”
Perinatal Depression: Perinatal depression, including postpartum depression, is a common yet often overlooked complication of childbearing, affecting approximately 20% of women and 10% of men during the perinatal period. This condition can manifest before, during, or after pregnancy, and its prevalence may be even higher in high-stress parenting situations.
Perinatal Anxiety: Perinatal anxiety affects about 20% of individuals during pregnancy and the postpartum period, often coexisting with perinatal depression. This condition can occur independently or in combination with other perinatal mental health issues, with higher rates observed in high-stress parenting groups.
Perinatal Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Perinatal OCD is characterized by intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors, affecting an estimated 7.8% of pregnant individuals and 16.9% of postpartum individuals. While the thoughts can be distressing, they are anxious in nature rather than delusional, and individuals with perinatal OCD are more likely to avoid perceived triggers than act on their fears.
Postpartum Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Postpartum PTSD can develop following a real or perceived trauma during childbirth or the postpartum period, affecting approximately 3% of birthing individuals, with rates increasing to 15% in high-risk populations. Traumatic experiences may include complications during delivery, emergency interventions, or feelings of powerlessness during the birthing process.
Bipolar Mood Disorders: Bipolar mood disorders, which include Bipolar I and Bipolar II, are characterized by alternating periods of depression and mania or hypomania. Research indicates that half of women with bipolar disorder receive their initial diagnosis during the postpartum period, highlighting the importance of awareness and screening during this time. See our page about Bipolar Disorder for more general information on this diagnosis.
Perinatal Psychosis (PP): Perinatal psychosis is a rare but serious mental health condition that typically onset within the first two weeks postpartum, though it can occur up to a year after childbirth. Affecting approximately 1 to 2 out of every 1,000 deliveries, perinatal psychosis is considered a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention to ensure the safety of both the parent and child.
* This information was informed by the Postpartum Support International website, where the founder of Resilience Therapy received her certification in treating Peripartum Mental Health. To read more, click here.
You’re not “crazy.” We are here to support you through this transition.
More Healing Options at Resilience Therapy
Anxiety doesn’t discriminate and can affect all ages and genders. Our brains are naturally built to anticipate potential dangers and risks.
People often feel a need to carry out these behaviors in order to alleviate the anxiety and stress that is associated with the obsessions and compulsions.