Pregnancy, Postpartum, & Motherhood
Pregnancy and the transition to motherhood can be times of enormous change. There are many paths to motherhood, including pregnancy and childbirth, surrogacy, adoption, and other routes to becoming a parent.
Each path can bring its own experiences, expectations, relationships, adjustments, and challenges. Mental health care during this period may involve treating psychiatric symptoms while also understanding them within the broader context of a woman's history, relationships, identity, circumstances, and transition to motherhood. My areas of specialization include planning for pregnancy, pregnancy, postpartum depression and anxiety, and adjustment to becoming a mother.
Planning for Pregnancy
Women who have a history of psychiatric treatment may have questions as they consider pregnancy. A psychiatric evaluation provides an opportunity to review a woman's psychiatric history, current emotional health, and treatment in the context of her plans for pregnancy.
During Pregnancy
Psychiatric symptoms can occur during pregnancy, and women with pre-existing psychiatric conditions may need continued care during this period. My approach considers both psychological and medical aspects of a patient's care and, with her written consent, may include collaboration with other physicians involved in her treatment.
Postpartum
For women who give birth, the postpartum period includes significant physical and hormonal changes along with changes in sleep, relationships, responsibilities, and identity. I treat postpartum depression and anxiety and work with women as they adjust to motherhood.
The Transition to Motherhood
Becoming a mother is not limited to pregnancy and childbirth. Women may become mothers through surrogacy, adoption, and other paths to parenthood. Whatever the path, becoming a mother can involve significant changes in identity, relationships, responsibilities, expectations, and daily life. I work with women navigating the psychological and emotional adjustments that can accompany this transition. Treatment may include psychotherapy and, when indicated, medication management.
I am currently accepting new patients in St. Louis.