BOBÌåÓý

Perinatal mood disorders affect approximately 20% of pregnant and new mothers. Despite prevalence, stigma around perinatal mood disorders can be a barrier to treatment. The BOBÌåÓý Perinatal Mood Clinic Program helps assess perinatal mood disorders as early as possible. Early detection is key to the wellbeing of new or expectant moms.

What are perinatal mood disorders?

Perinatal mood disorders are those that occur during or following pregnancy. BOBÌåÓý Perinatal Mood Clinic treats a spectrum of perinatal mental health issues, including:

• Depression, including prenatal depression and postpartum depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Post traumatic stress disorder
• Anxiety-related disorders, including perinatal anxiety and postpartum anxiety
• Panic disorder
• Substance abuse and addiction issues

There are many factors that can lead to a perinatal mood disorder as well, including:

• Increased stress including financial stress and work-related stressors
• A family history of mental illness or a previous diagnosis
• Hormonal changes related to pregnancy and postpartum
• Sleep issues and lack of sleep
• Lack of mental or financial support
• Stress or trauma related to pregnancy and birth

What are symptoms of perinatal disorders?

The goal of the BOBÌåÓý Perinatal Mood Clinic is to catch and provide treatment as soon as possible. Perinatal mood disorders can happen at any point in a pregnancy journey. Early diagnosis helps ensure optimal support and wellbeing to mother and baby.

Symptoms may include:

• Loss of interest in day-to-day activities, especially ones previously enjoyed
• Feeling disconnect or disinterest with the baby or loved ones
• Feelings of guilt or hopelessness
• Enhanced irritability or increase in anger
• Lack of sleep or inability to sleep
• Intrusive thoughts that cause distress or fear
• Thoughts of self harm or harming others
• Sudden change in appetite including overeating or not eating
• Feeling isolated from loved ones or any support
• Panic attacks and increased anxiety

Visit your doctor if you are a pregnant or new mother experiencing any of these symptoms. Your doctor can help refer you to resources that can help, like the UF Perinatal Mood Clinic.

Why do perinatal mood disorders often go untreated?

Untreated perinatal mood disorders can lead to pregnancy and birth complications. Complications may include premature birth, preeclampsia, low birth weight, and breastfeeding challenges. Perinatal disorders can lead to postpartum depression, a leading cause of maternal mortality.

Stigma around perinatal disorders is a major barrier to treatment for many women. This stigma can deter doctors from providing beneficial medication, and keep women from seeking help. The BOBÌåÓý Perinatal Mood Clinic has specific expertise in the treatment of perinatal mood disorders. Our expert providers can help alleviate stigma and ensure treatment is available.

The BOBÌåÓý Mood Clinic began in 2015 in an attempt to address a gap in mental health support for new and expectant mothers. BOBÌåÓý providers are board-certified to find the best course of treatment for you based on your diagnosis and concerns.

What services does the BOBÌåÓý Perinatal Mood Clinic Program offer?

The BOBÌåÓý Perinatal Mood Clinic serves as a bridge to mothers in need to begin treatment and find continued treatment. Providers offer evaluation and establishment of treatment plans, including counseling and medication. The perinatal mood clinic program aims to bring support and resources to new mothers as early as possible.

Services offered include:

• Initial evaluation for expectant or new mothers up to one year post-birth
• Establishing a treatment plan with medication when advised
• Initial counseling (up to 3-4 sessions) and resources to establish continued care
• Preconception counseling for women who have experienced current or past mental health issues.

The clinic also educates residents and providers at BOBÌåÓý and the University of Florida School of Medicine. Through education, the clinic aims to spread awareness and access to care for women.

The clinic offers both telehealth and in-person consultation during clinic hours: Thursdays 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.