What is Perinatal Mental Health?

Here at Reframing Birth, I understand that mental health conditions affect 1 in 4 of the general population and approximately 1 in 8 new parents. That is a lot of people. You may not necessarily have been diagnosed with a mental heath condition, yet you may still feel something is not quite right. This is where I can help. My gentle and compassionate approach towards improving your mental health puts you in control of your wellbeing. I know it takes some strength to take the first steps, so feel free to contact me when you are ready. We can take it slowly, in your own time. I am here for you.

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'Peri' = around or about

'Natal' = to do with birth

Therefore, perinatal means around the time that someone gives birth. It can be used interchangeably with 'pre' and 'postnatal'.

There are different definitions but most would agree that the perinatal period spans from the beginning of pregnancy until atleast one year post birth (some sources say two years).

I would also include the pre-conception period in this personally due to the rollercoaster of emotions which can occur in a fertility journey.

Matrescence (the physical, emotional and cognitive transition to becoming a parent) is not linear and so I would never put a time frame on how long the perinatal period lasts. The clock does not strike one year and it is all over.

Therefore, perinatal mental health encompasses any emotional changes and challenges occurring during the pre-conception period, pregnancy, birth and postnatal period. Commonly, you may hear about postnatal depression or birth trauma, but these are not the only difficulties which can be faced. You can develop depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, eating disorders and phobias all in the perinatal period.

These challenges may occur as a result of any trauma, infertility, difficult pregnancy and birth experiences, feeding issues, sleep deprivation, physical birth injury, loss and grief.

You must remember that everyone's experiences are different and anyone can develop perinatal emotional health challenges. Do not underestimate the nuances of this season of life, nor the extent of how deeply our experiences can impact how we feel and behave.

You may be experiencing a perinatal mental health condition if you feel any of the following:

Persistent low mood or tearfulness

Anxiety or hypervigilance (being on high alert)

Flashbacks or nightmares to an event in the pregnancy/birth/postnatal period

Agitation or irritability

Sleep disturbance

Weight or appetite changes

Change in attitude towards your pregnancy or baby

Lack of motivation

Panic attacks

Suicidal thoughts or those of self harm

This list is not exhaustive. If you notice any change in your emotions or behaviour in the perinatal period, you are worthy of support.