This NYT article describes new research that shows how pregnancy changes the brain.
“Studies scanning women’s brains before and after pregnancy have found that certain brain networks, especially those involved in social and emotional processing, shrink during pregnancy, possibly undergoing a fine-tuning process in preparation for parenting.”
Hearing other stories of healing from postpartum depression and anxiety can be helpful for new mothers. The Postpartum Resource Center of New York has a list of these women sharing their stories.
Pregnancy and postpartum can sometimes trigger Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. These can often include worries about injuring your baby or germs. This is very treatable and important to get help through therapy and sometimes medication. This is a clear description of some of the symptoms to be aware of with this disorder:
June 17th is International Father’s Mental Health Day. This is a good reminder that 10% of new dads experience paternal postpartum depression and need to think about getting support of their own. Here are some resources from PSI to get started.
If you do not like the way you are feeling and are wondering if you are too anxious or too depressed, it is important to seek help. Moms often think it is supposed to be hard, but that is not the same as suffering. There is a lot of help out there and it is important to find the right help. Social media is NOT the place to start. Try asking friends and health care providers until you find the right fit. No mother or father should ever have to suffer through parenting.
As Winter drags on, it can feel hard to motivate to get out of the house. While some hibernation at home can be nice, it is still important to get out to see people and enjoy some sunshine on those cold sunny days. Brooklyn Bridge Parents can be a good resource when looking for stuff to do as a family. Here is a list of options for the month of February.
If you are pregnant, it’s important to pay attention to your body and talk to your healthcare provider about anything that doesn’t feel right. Remember that you know your body best and it is important to not ignore something that is feeling unusual. With so many doctor appointments, it can feel hard to remember questions you want to ask. Write things down in between appointments so you feel prepared. Visits with the pediatrician can also feel distracting with the baby there. Take notes so you can review the information afterward. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about anything you didn’t understand. Make sure your concerns are being heard.
