Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders
Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) are common emotional health conditions that can occur during pregnancy and in the first year after childbirth. Nearly 1 in 5 pregnant or postpartum individuals are affected. More long-lasting and impactful than "baby blues," PMADs can significantly affect daily life, relationships, and the parent–baby bond. Common types include postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, obsessive-compulsive symptoms, panic disorder, and post-traumatic stress related to a difficult birth.
Symptoms vary but often include ongoing sadness or emptiness, excessive worry or racing thoughts, trouble sleeping or sleeping too much, loss of interest in activities, difficulty concentrating, intrusive or frightening thoughts, feeling detached from your baby, or intense guilt or shame. Some people notice physical symptoms like fatigue, changes in appetite, or overwhelming irritability. Symptoms can start during pregnancy or at any time in the first year after delivery.
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I focus on individualized medication management as a key part of treating PMADs, because antidepressants and anxiety medications can provide faster, reliable relief for many people and help restore daily functioning. When we consider medication, I review your full medical and psychiatric history, discuss the risks and benefits for you and your baby (including breastfeeding considerations), and choose treatments with the best evidence and safety profile. I monitor you closely—adjusting doses, checking for side effects, and coordinating with your obstetrician, pediatrician, or therapist as needed—so we can respond quickly if symptoms change. I also integrate medication with psychotherapy, lifestyle interventions, and practical strategies when helpful, and I involve you in every decision so the plan fits your values and goals.