Perinatal Mental Health

In this episode of Pregnancy Matters from the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, host Dr. Alex Juusela is joined by maternal-fetal medicine specialists Dr. Emily Miller and Dr. Adam Lewkowitz for an important conversation about perinatal mental health. Together, they discuss perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs), including depression, anxiety, OCD, and postpartum psychosis, which affect up to 1 in 5 pregnant and postpartum people and are highly treatable. The discussion explores why mental health is a foundational part of pregnancy care, the potential risks of untreated mental health conditions for both parent and fetus, and why medication adjustments during pregnancy may sometimes be necessary without meaning treatment has failed. They also discuss the importance of not stopping medications abruptly, shared decision-making with healthcare professionals, psychotherapy, postpartum planning and support, breastfeeding considerations, and reducing stigma around seeking help. Additional resources: Postpartum Support International National Maternal Mental Health Hotline (24/7): 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262)