Receiving mental health treatment during the pregnancy and the postpartum period is critically important for both mother and their baby.
During pregnancy, untreated mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or trauma-related disorders can affect sleep, nutrition, prenatal care, and stress hormones, all of which influence fetal development. Treatment helps stabilize mood, improve coping, and support healthier behaviors that protect both the physical and emotional well-being of a mother.
In the postpartum period, mental health care is especially vital because conditions such as postpartum depression, anxiety, and psychosis (though not as frequently) can emerge or worsen quickly. When left untreated, they can interfere with bonding, breastfeeding, and a mother’s ability to care for themselves and their baby. Early treatment reduces the risk of severe symptoms, improves parent–infant attachment, and supports healthy emotional and cognitive development in the child.
Across both periods, maternal mental health treatment—whether therapy, medication when appropriate, social support, or a combination—helps mothers feel more capable, connected, and supported during a major life transition. It is not just self-care; it is a key part of prenatal and postnatal healthcare that benefits the entire family system.
Many women make the mistake of waiting too long to seek therapy in the hopes that things will get better on their own. Perinatal depression and anxiety is very treatable. If you are worried about the way you are feeling, tell someone. Talk to your partner. Talk to your healthcare provider. Do not let feelings of shame or embarrassment get in your way. Reach out to Dr. Sandra Rodriguez-Siuts for help to heal so you can feel like yourself again.
