Perinatal Mental Health

The perinatal period involves great shifts in physical health, emotional wellbeing, and lifestyle, making it a time when many people find that they can use therapeutic support, even if they have never sought out therapy. Perinatal mental health refers to a woman’s mental health during pregnancy and the first years after birth.

This area of mental health care can also include a partner’s mental health and couples’ issues, as well as challenges that arise around fertility, including pregnancy loss and infertility.  During this period, mental health disorders like depression, anxiety, and PTSD can develop for the first time or become greatly exacerbated. Even if you do not meet criteria for a mental health diagnosis, the life changes that occur during this period can be explored and processed through therapy, making the transition to parenthood smoother and more enjoyable.