Peripartum Mood

Fluctuating hormones, as well as symptoms and lifestyle changes associated with being pregnant, can affect your mood. If you’re sad or anxious during or after your pregnancy, turn to Resonance Psychiatry. Advanced registered nurse practitioner Stephanie Blanshan, ARNP, and the team diagnose and treat peripartum mood disorders to help you feel more like yourself. Schedule a virtual evaluation by calling the office or booking one online today.

What are peripartum mood and anxiety disorders?

Peripartum mood and anxiety disorders appear during or right after pregnancy in some women. These conditions might include depression, anxiety disorders, or similar concerns that cause symptoms ranging from mild to severe. 

Treatment with the Resonance Psychiatry team offers symptom relief as you navigate the peripartum period and beyond.

What are the symptoms of peripartum mood and anxiety disorders?

The symptoms of peripartum mood and anxiety disorders may include:

• Fear
• Nervousness
• Constant worry
• Frequently crying
• Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
• Sadness
• Feeling out of touch
• Mood swings
• Agitation
• Anger
• Feeling empty
• Hopelessness
• Restlessness
• Loss of interest in favorite activities
• Trouble forming a bond with your baby
• Physical aches and pains
• Thoughts of self-harm

You may not feel like yourself because of a peripartum mood disorder or a similar mental health condition during pregnancy. 

Left untreated, mood concerns during your pregnancy can continue into the postpartum period, increasing the risk of postpartum depression and detachment from your new baby or other family members. 

What are the risk factors for peripartum mood disorders?

While the cause may not be fully clear, risk factors for peripartum mood disorders might include:

• Having a difficult pregnancy
• Having a special needs baby
• Underlying medical conditions
• Hormonal changes
• Lack of social or financial support
• Personal or family history of anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder
• History of substance misuse
• Stressful or traumatic life events

Adopting healthy habits and having a strong social support network may reduce the risk of experiencing peripartum mood and anxiety disorders, but these conditions aren’t necessarily preventable if you're prone to developing them. 

How are peripartum mood and anxiety disorders diagnosed?

The Resonance Psychiatry team meets with you virtually to complete a psychiatric evaluation and determine if you have a peripartum mood disorder. They discuss your moods, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, as well as your lifestyle and medical history. 

Your provider uses DSM-5 criteria to learn if you have a peripartum mood disorder or similar condition during or after pregnancy. They may recommend you complete genetic testing or other lab tests.

How are peripartum mood and anxiety disorders treated?

Your personalized treatment plan for a peripartum mood or anxiety disorder may consist of:

• Lifestyle changes
• Stress management
• Social support
• Psychotherapy
• Medication management
• Dietary supplements
• Combinations of treatments

It’s important to get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, stay active, and follow up with your mental health specialist to ensure an effective and lasting outcome. They create a treatment plan based on your specific diagnosis and needs.

Schedule a telehealth appointment at Resonance Psychiatry by phone or online today to get screened or treated for a peripartum mood or anxiety disorder.