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Perinatal Mental Health

Mental health care during pregnancy and the first postpartum year

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Psikiyatri department. Book Appointment →

What is Perinatal Mental Health?

Perinatal mental health refers to the mental well-being of pregnant individuals and parents during the year after birth. Common conditions include perinatal depression and anxiety, OCD, PTSD related to traumatic birth, postpartum psychosis, and exacerbation of pre-existing disorders.

Untreated perinatal mental illness contributes to obstetric complications, preterm birth, low birth weight, impaired bonding, and longer-term effects on child development. Screening with validated tools (such as EPDS) at routine antenatal and postpartum visits is recommended.

Care is integrated, balancing risks of treatment and untreated illness, and includes psychotherapy (interpersonal, CBT), medication when indicated, social support, peer support groups, and specialist mother-and-baby units for severe illness. Postpartum psychosis is a psychiatric emergency requiring rapid assessment and often inpatient care.

Symptoms

Persistent low mood, tearfulness, anhedonia
Excessive anxiety, intrusive thoughts about harm
Sleep and appetite disturbance beyond normal pregnancy
Difficulty bonding with the baby
Suicidal ideation, psychotic symptoms (urgent)

Risk Factors

Prior history of depression, anxiety, bipolar, or psychosis
Family history of perinatal psychiatric illness
Lack of social support and intimate partner violence
Poverty, migration, traumatic birth experience
Adolescent pregnancy, NICU admission, infant illness

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Persistent mood, anxiety, or sleep symptoms
  • Thoughts of harming self or baby (urgent)
  • Postpartum psychotic symptoms (emergency)
  • Difficulty caring for self or baby
  • Need for medication review during pregnancy or breastfeeding

Treatment Methods

01
Routine perinatal mental health screening
02
Psychotherapy (interpersonal, cognitive behavioral)
03
Antidepressants and other medications when indicated
04
Specialist mother-and-baby units for severe illness
05
Treatment of postpartum psychosis as psychiatric emergency
06
Peer support groups and home visiting programs
07
Integrated obstetric, primary care, and psychiatric collaboration

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Psikiyatri department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.