Fertility, Perinatal and Postpartum Issues
You're exhausted. You haven't slept well, showered or had a sit-down meal in days. Your nerves feel raw and you're completely overwhelmed by how much this very lovable (but also needy) baby has changed your life. For many gestational weeks we are told what to eat (and what to not eat), how to prepare a nursery and what to pack in our hospital bag. However, very little attention is given to how we should care for ourselves after the baby comes. And the old saying is true: You can't draw water from an empty well. This is the time in our lives when it's most crucial to be kind to ourselves and make sure that our needs, both physical and emotional, are met.
Experiences with infertility, miscarriage and peri/postnatal mood disorders can all have a significant impact on how we feel and how we function during this phase of life. These concerns encompass so much more than just the "baby blues." They also don't necessarily manifest themselves as classic "postpartum depression" symptoms. For example, postpartum anxiety has become more and more widely recognized as problem that deeply effect new mothers. My hope is to provide you with a profound sense of support and useful, evidence-based strategies. Problems related to pregnancy and the postpartum period are very much treatable and within your control once you have found the right kind of support.
What are some common symptoms of peri and post natal concerns?
Note: These symptoms are things that most new moms can relate to. The important differentiation to make is whether your experience of them feelings overwhelming, out of your control or is interfering with your ability to function and your relationships with others.
Feeling excessively overwhelmed and discouraged.
Anger and having difficulty controlling your emotions.
Guilt related to feelings of inadequacy or the fallout of emotional outbursts.
Difficulty concentrating.
Disconnection from your loved ones, your friends or your new baby.
Excessive sadness or anxiety that is out of your control.
You miss your "old life" and feel unable to cope with the changes you are experiencing.
Pressure. To be the perfect wife, mother, friend.
Racing thoughts or difficulty quieting your thoughts.
Excessive worry and fears that don't respond to reassurance from yourself or others.
In some cases, disturbing thoughts that feel out of your control.
Disclaimer: If the symptoms you are experiencing cause you to worry that you may cause harm to yourself or someone else, please don't delay treatment and go to the nearest hospital emergency room.