When is the Perinatal Period?
From pregnancy through the baby’s first year of life.
Who can be affected by PMAD’s?
Mom’s, Dad’s, Birthing People and even adoptive parents
PMAD’s are the number one complication with pregnancy and birth, so let’s talk about it and see how some of the offerings at Parenting Now can support you though this chapter of life
Symptoms can start anytime during the perinatal period and they may differ for each person. Keep an eye out during weaning as a time symptoms can occur as well. Symptoms of PMAD’s are not black and white but rather on a grey scale.
Here is what to look out for:
Feelings of anger, irritability and/or rage
Disturbances of sleep and appetite
Crying and sadness
Feelings of guilt, shame or hopelessness
Loss of interest, joy or pleasure in things you used to enjoy
Lack of interest in the baby
Possible thoughts of harming the baby or yourself
HOW TO HELP PREVENT AND TREAT PMAD’S
SLEEP
I know this is a tough one for new parents but if possible work to get some protected sleep as a parent and especially if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms. Some postpartum doulas can offer overnight care or having a friend or relative help out for a chunk of time so you can get sleep is one of the first and best things to do so support yourself in the perinatal period.
CONNECT WITH COMMUNITY
A specialty at Parenting Now and one of the best ways to support yourself during this stage of life to prevent PMAD’s or added support while working through symptoms. We offer a free group called Baby Connection, Wednesdays 11-12 to connect with other parents as well as getting support from Lactation Specialists and other support staff. After Baby Connection stay and join WellMama for their New Parent Support group from 12-1, this is a group for Pregnant and Postpartum families, this group is also free of charge. We also offer a group called Incredible INFANTs that not only helps with learning about infant development, it allows you to build a community with others in the same chapter of life as you. Often folks make friends for life in these classes! We can help connect you with other resources around town to further connect you to community as well.
PROFESSIONAL THERAPEUTIC SUPPORT
It is always nice to have a professional to talk to and it can be critical to have this type of help if you experience symptoms of PMAD’s. Finding a specialist who has specific training in PMAD’s is great and Postpartum Support International is a wonderful resource for finding a provider in your area.
Postpartum.net
RESOURCES
If you feel like you have some of the symptoms listed above you may want to fill out a questioner to find out where your symptoms land on the screening tool. Here is a link to Postpartum Support International with links to two different screening tools: Postpartum.net
Local Lane County Resources
- Parenting Now Groups- ParentingNow.org
- Well Mama- WellMama.help
One in 5 Women experience PMAD’s and one in 10 dad’s. It is common and not a reflection of you as a person. The more we talk about this issue the better it will be for our community as a whole. If you are struggling, know you are not alone.
Here at Parenting Now we are here to support you through this challenging and amazing chapter of life. Please reach out if you need support with finding resources or attend some of our incredible offerings to meet others in the community in this same chapter of life as you.