As expectant parents prepare for the arrival of their little ones, amidst assembling cribs and deciphering car seat manuals, there’s another essential aspect of parenthood that often goes unnoticed: mental health. Our own Medical Director, Dr. Catherine Cunningham, a psychiatrist and mother, aims to shed light on a crucial yet often overlooked topic—Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs).

Author: Catherine M. Cunningham, MD

PMADs are possibly the most underdiagnosed obstetrical complication in America, affecting up to one in seven women/gestational parents and up to one in ten men/non-gestational parents. These disorders can manifest anytime during pregnancy and up to a year after delivery, yet many individuals are unaware of their existence.

Expectant parents may have heard of the Baby Blues—a transient period of mood swings and tearfulness following childbirth. However, it’s vital to recognize the distinction between the Baby Blues and PMADs. While the Baby Blues typically resolve within two weeks and allow individuals to find joy in daily activities despite feeling tired, PMADs can be much more severe and prolonged.

With PMADs, feelings of gloominess, irritability, and excessive guilt persist for two weeks or longer, robbing individuals of the ability to experience pleasure. Exhaustion does not provide rejuvenation for individuals experiencing PMADs, in contrast to the restorative effects of sleep observed during the Baby Blues. In the most severe cases, individuals may experience suicidal thoughts or thoughts of harming their baby, warranting immediate medical attention.

Recognizing these symptoms in oneself can be challenging, which is why it’s crucial for partners, family, and friends to remain vigilant. If any concerning changes in a loved one’s behavior or mood are noticed, initiating a conversation and encouraging seeking professional help is essential.