Pregnancy & Mental Health: Finding Support and Resources

On TV and in movies, pregnancy often looks like a happy, “glowing” time for soon-to-be parents. In real life, pregnancy can be tough – both physically and emotionally.

Many people face new mental health challenges during and after pregnancy because their bodies are changing, and they are getting ready for a big life change. If you feel anxious or worried during your pregnancy, you’re not alone. The AHN Women and Infants Center at Forbes Hospital can help you understand and take care of your mental health.

New pregnancy, new emotions

Navigating a new pregnancy can be difficult. You may notice changes in your body, relationships, and daily routine. You may also start to worry about the future for you and your growing baby. Working with AHN providers you trust and building a strong support system is important for dealing with stress during pregnancy.

Some stressors that can impact your pregnancy are:

• Concerns about your or your baby’s health.
• Problems in relationships.
• Changes in your body and hormones.
• Financial changes. 
• Being away from work. 

At your first visit, the OB-GYN team at Forbes Hospital will check on how you’re doing emotionally and see if you need extra support. Your AHN providers will be here to answer any questions you have as you navigate your pregnancy journey.

Mood disorders and symptoms

Experiencing new and overwhelming emotions during pregnancy isn’t something to be ashamed of. One in five women develop a new mental health condition during pregnancy, but many women hide or downplay their feelings because they’re afraid of being judged.* 

At AHN, we believe it’s important to talk about these feelings so you can get the right care and treatment. Here are some common perinatal mood disorders (new mental health conditions that develop during pregnancy) and postpartum conditions:

• Perinatal depression – A form of depression that occurs during pregnancy, causing symptoms like loss of interest in activities, difficulty concentrating, and tiredness.
• Perinatal or postpartum OCD – A disorder that can be pre-existing or develop during or after pregnancy. OCD involves repeated intrusive thoughts, images, or urges (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors that can cause anxiety and distress.
• Postpartum depression – A mood disorder that can develop after giving birth, and is characterized by ongoing feelings of sadness, anxiety, and hopelessness.
• Postpartum anxiety – A condition that is associated with worry, nervousness, and fear, which can impact your daily life and your ability to care for your child.
• Postpartum psychosis – New mothers with this condition often experience hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thoughts. This typically shows up in the first one to two weeks after giving birth. Postpartum psychosis is a medical emergency. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms, call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately. 

You should reach out to your provider right away once you notice symptoms of a mood disorder. For more severe conditions like postpartum psychosis, your OB-GYN team at Forbes will refer you to behavioral health experts for perinatal mental health services.

Sleep and mental health

Almost all new moms experience sleep deprivation after the baby arrives. The amount and quality of sleep you get can affect your mental health and how well you take care of yourself and your baby. Not getting enough sleep can make conditions like postpartum depression, anxiety, and OCD worse.

In the weeks after birth, you may start feeling the effects of little sleep. Talk to your AHN care team; we can help strategize ways for you to get more sleep and feel more rested and healthy.

Finding treatment and solutions

To help you find the best maternal mental health treatment, your OB-GYN team at Forbes will perform screenings at your first visit, at the end of your third trimester, and after you give birth. 

There are many treatment options you can explore with your doctor for addressing a mood disorder and receiving pregnancy mental health support. Some treatment options available at AHN are: 

• Therapy services and in-patient psychiatry.
• Pregnancy-safe mood medications.
• Acupuncture or massages.
• Resources for exercise and nutrition. 

Reaching out for support

The AHN Women and Infants Center at Forbes Hospital knows that every pregnancy brings unique challenges. We’re here to help you get the mental health support you need. Reach out today to learn more.