Pregnancy is a strange, wild time. From raging hormones to blotchy skin, morning sickness to discomfort in places you didn’t know existed — the pregnancy journey can be a rocky, rocky road. That fact is balanced, of course, by the incredible joys and profound emotional bonds that also arise at the same time. But sometimes, women experience mental health issues that go far beyond the norm — so far in fact that they require medical attention. This phenomenon is called perinatal anxiety, and can be very difficult for the whole family.
So if you’re a new parent, soon-to-be-parent, or just a curious person — let’s take an honest look at perinatal anxiety.
What is perinatal anxiety?
First, let’s lay out some definitions. Perinatal is the period of time from which a woman becomes pregnant until up to a year after delivery. This differs from the postpartum period, which takes place only after the child is born. Perinatal anxiety is a specific disorder characterized by intense and extreme worrying, about all aspects of pregnancy, labor, parenting, etc., that do not go away in time.
How perinatal anxiety differs from ‘the baby blues’
Most women experience what is commonly referred to as ‘the baby blues’ — which includes mood swings, bouts of depression, emotional instability, and quite a bit of angst. This is to be expected for every new parent for a multitude of reasons, some of which include lack of sleep, erratic schedules, and virtually no ‘me-time’ for a prolonged period. But once a couple weeks have passed, and new parents begin to figure out their roles, responsibilities, and habits, they can begin to implement some self-care — and these symptoms typically dissipate. Perinatal anxiety, however, lasts far longer.
Signs & symptoms of perinatal anxiety
Perinatal anxiety symptoms can arise as soon as a woman becomes pregnant, and may include:
- Anger, rage and general irritability
- A profound absence of interest in the new (or soon-to-be-born) baby
- Interrupted sleep and limited appetite
- Unstoppable crying and prolonged sadness
- Being flooded with feelings of guilt or hopelessness
- Ruminating constantly about miniscule issues
- Intrusive thoughts based on fear, rage or panic
The perinatal anxiety screening scale
If you think that you or someone you know may be experiencing something more than the baby blues, be sure to check out the Perinatal Anxiety Screening Scale (PASS). Researchers in Western Australia developed the PASS as a valid, reliable self-answered questionnaire designed to screen pregnant women and new moms for perinatal anxiety. You can download a PDF version of the full screening exam here.
Treating perinatal anxiety
Perinatal anxiety is treated using a number of different approaches, ranging from cognitive behavioral therapy, support groups, mindfulness training, and in severe cases, pharmaceutical interventions. It’s important to remember that perinatal anxiety is a serious affliction, and should be dealt with by a qualified professional.
At Ocean Pediatrics, we partner with a range of specialty providers across a number of fields, including Shira Kfir (LCSW), who has over 15 years experience helping pregnant and new moms get through the challenges of pregnancy, the postpartum period and early parenthood. If you, your partner, or someone close to you is experiencing perinatal anxiety, get in touch with our passionate team of pediatric specialists and care providers today. And once you have your precious little baby, be sure to schedule their first appointment with us — we’ll be here!
