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Understanding Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) by Jess Hedgepeth, MS, PMHC

by Brianne Taggart

Bringing a baby into the world is a life-changing experience, but for many mothers, it can also come with unexpected emotional and mental health challenges. Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) are the most common complications of childbirth, affecting 1 in 7 women and leading to 800,000 reported cases each year in the U.S.

What Are PMADs?

The term “perinatal” refers to the period during pregnancy and up to one year postpartum. PMADs encompass a range of mental health disorders that can arise at any point during this time, impacting a mother’s well-being and ability to function.

Types of Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders

1. Perinatal Depression

Approximately 1 in 7 women experience depression during pregnancy or postpartum. Symptoms may include:

  • Persistent sadness or irritability
  • Low self-esteem or feelings of guilt
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Exhaustion
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Lack of engagement with baby or loved ones

2. Perinatal Anxiety

Between 8.5% to 30% of pregnant and postpartum women experience anxiety, while 1-3% develop panic disorder. Symptoms can include:

  • Excessive worry, often about irrational fears
  • Hypervigilance and racing thoughts
  • Panic attacks
  • Physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat or dizziness

3. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Approximately 3-5% of mothers develop perinatal OCD, with higher rates among those with pre-existing OCD. This condition involves:

  • Intrusive, repetitive thoughts
  • Compulsions or rituals to alleviate distress
  • Fears of harming the baby (despite no intent to act)

4. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Between 1-6% of women experience PTSD due to a traumatic pregnancy, birth, or medical event. PTSD can be triggered by:

  • Life-threatening complications during labor
  • Perceived trauma during childbirth
  • Past trauma that resurfaces postpartum

Symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety.

5. Postpartum Psychosis

Postpartum psychosis is a rare but serious disorder, occurring in 1-2 per 1,000 childbirths, usually within the first 1-4 weeks postpartum. It is a medical emergency requiring immediate intervention.

Symptoms may include:

  • Delusions or hallucinations
  • Extreme mood swings
  • Disorientation or confusion

Without urgent treatment, postpartum psychosis carries a 5% risk of suicide and a 4% risk of infanticide.

The Importance of Early Screening & Treatment

The good news? PMADs are treatable, and early intervention can reduce their intensity and duration. If you're struggling, even if it feels "not that bad," reaching out early can make a difference.

You are not alone. Many mothers experience these challenges, and support is available. Therapy, support groups, and professional treatment can help you regain stability and joy in motherhood.

You Deserve Support

I have over 10 years of experience supporting mothers and partners through these challenges—including my own firsthand experience with PMADs. My passion is helping women heal, recover, and thrive.

Reach Out for Help

🌿 Jess Hedgepeth, MS, PMHC
Therapist & Coach for Women and Moms
📞 (480) 269-3643
📷 IG: @wildwomenwell
🌐 www.wildwomenwellness.co
💜 Sliding scale sessions available

You are not alone. You are worthy of care. Let’s navigate this together. 💕

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