For years, the exhaustion, the intrusive thoughts, the numbness, and the shame that can follow pregnancy and childbirth were mostly whispered about, if they were spoken of at all. That’s changing. As CNN reported this week, women are increasingly telling their stories about maternal mental health “on the internet, at work, at home and in […]
Your recovery after delivery deserves the same attention as your pregnancy. Here’s how modern postpartum care is changing — and what it means for you. For decades, postpartum care meant one thing: a single appointment at six weeks. You came in, your provider checked your incision or confirmed your uterus had returned to size, and […]
The pitch vs. the reality Both drugs are neuroactive steroids that boost GABAergic signaling, a pathway thought to be disrupted after childbirth. In clinical trials, participants taking these medicines did show improvements on the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D-17). But so did participants on placebo—and that matters when we ask, “Is the drug’s added […]
Postpartum depression (PPD) and anxiety are mental health challenges affecting many women who have recently given birth. As new mothers adapt to the demands of caring for a newborn while managing the significant physical and emotional changes that accompany childbirth, they often experience a range of emotions, from joy to profound stress, sadness, or worry. […]
It is that time of year again where the weather gets colder, sweaters and boots come back into fashion, and the news gets obsessed with pumpkin spice everything. That’s right! Flu season! I know, “I got one last year! Shouldn’t one be enough?” Unfortunately no. The flu virus mutates so quickly through the population […]
You may feel overwhelmed during your baby’s first month and wonder “Am I doing this right?” No previous life experience prepares first time parents for doing this new role. It is completely normal to be confused and frustrated by your newborn. You will become familiar with your newborn’s needs by paying attention to his or […]
by Amy Teng, DO As an obstetrician I counsel patients daily regarding the challenges of pregnancy, labor, and breastfeeding. As most mothers will acknowledge, the expectations and goals that are set for this time in a woman’s life can be numerous, complicated, and sometimes difficult to achieve. My goal is to make sure […]
It can happen to anyone: Post Partum Depression By Rania Awaad, MD “How can I be so ungrateful for this beautiful baby?” she asked, her voice filled with despair and trepidation. Before I knew it, she had burst into uncontrollable sobbing. For moments, I sat there uncertain what to say next. Yet, this was […]
Written by: Dr. Teng In 2012, a systematic review of the research on the effectiveness of postpartum contraception counseling found that patient education results in more family planning use and fewer unplanned pregnancies. Family planning is integral to our roles as OBGYNs. Though planning your next pregnancy may be the last thing on […]