Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PMAD)

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Mental Health during Pregnancy and Postpartum

Pregnancy and postpartum are complex periods of a woman's life.  Physically, it is a time that can come with intense discomfort and health risks/complications for mother.  It is also filled with wondrous  experiences related to forming and nourishing a new life.  The hormonal shifts of pregnancy affect women in diverse ways, bringing positive feelings and symptom relief to some, exacerbating negative emotions and physical symptoms in others.  Emotionally, it is an intense time.  Many women look forward to pregnancy and motherhood for much of their lives.  This can lead to high expectations for this period which can trigger distress if the mother isn't feeling or performing at a level that meets those expectations.  Pregnancy can impact our primary relationships.  While we often think of pregnancy as a time of closeness with our partners, pregnancy and postpartum can strain our primary relationships.  Strained relationships can put mothers at increased risk for PMADs.  Because of this complex mix of physical, hormonal, emotional and relational changes, It is important that every woman form a plan for maintaining good mental health during pregnancy and postpartum. 

Symptoms of PMAD

Learn more about the symptoms of postpartum mood and anxiety disorders.

Medications & Pregnancy​

Resources related to medications during the perinatal period can be found here.

Postpartum Self Care

Twenty-five self-care strategies for new parents along with local and national resources.

Assess Your Risk for PMAD

Every woman is at some risk for postpartum mood and anxiety disorders.  Knowing what factors elevate your risk can help you make a good plan for your postpartum mental health.

Postpartum Mania & Psychosis

Click here for resources related to postpartum mania and postpartum psychosis.  

When to Get Help

It can be hard for new parents to distinguish between normal postpartum adjustment and a postpartum mood or anxiety disorder.  Click here for our guidelines.

Creating a Perinatal MH Plan

There are many things you can do to reduce your risk of postpartum depression and anxiety.  Click here to learn more about how to plan for a good postpartum period.​

Lactation & Mental Health

Learn more about the relationship between breastfeeding and mental health issues.

The Shoulds of Motherhood

​Mothers are more likely than most to hold themselves to too high of standards.  Click here for more.