Perinatal mental health refers to the mental health and well-being of individuals during the perinatal period, which encompasses the time before and after childbirth. This period typically includes pregnancy (antenatal or prenatal) and first postpartum year (postnatal).
Perinatal mental health issues can affect both mothers and fathers/partners.
Perinatal mental health conditions can range from mild mood changes to more severe disorders. Some common perinatal mental health issues include: perinatal depression, anxiety disorders, psychosis, OCD, PTSD, and adjustment disorders.
It includes wide variety of mental health conditions related to abortions, adverse pregnancy outcomes, issues related to infertility, and its treatment etc.
Prompt identification and intervention, often through medication, therapies and support groups, are crucial for the well-being of both parents and children. Psychiatrist play a key role in recognizing and addressing perinatal mental health concerns.
Untreated maternal mental illness has long term impact on mothers, children and ultimately on societies.