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Podcast: Maternal Mental Health

Maternal Suicide

A mother holding her toddler in her arms in a busy outdoor market
Maternal Mental Health
Maternal Suicide
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In this CME-style episode, Lisa Bershok, LICSW, identifies the maternal mental health and suicide risks that occur in pre and post-natal periods. Bershok also shares best practices to identify and care for patients at risk, and highlights support resources.

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Photo of a new mother holding her baby in her arms close to her face

Diagnosing Maternal Mental Health

One in five mothers in the US are impacted by perinatal and postpartum mental health conditions, caused by a combination of bio-psycho-social factors. Most maternal mental health conditions are temporary and treatable.

Photo of a young mother with a toddler in her arms standing in a dimly lit hallway

Substance Abuse Disorder and Pregnancy

THC exposed pregnancies had decreased placental perfusion and showed evidence of microinfarctions. Withdrawal-like symptoms in the newborns that mimic NAS. Neonatal abstinence symptoms include tremor, increased startle reflex, and reduced habituation to light. Increased aggressive behavior and attention deficits as early as 18 months.

Side photo of a late-stage pregnant woman who is holding her naked belly

Psychiatric Medications in the Perinatal Period

While Dr. Claire Drom covers psychiatric medications in the perinatal period extensively, she offers six takeaways: Planning begins with preconception. If it’s not broken, don’t fix it. Use the lowest effective dose. Avoid exposures to multiple medications. May need dose increases later in pregnancy. Discuss plans for breastfeeding early and consider those when selecting a medication.