Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs)

What are PMADs?

Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) are a group of mental health conditions that can occur during pregnancy and up to one year postpartum. These disorders go beyond the typical "baby blues" and can significantly impact a woman's ability to function and care for herself and her baby.

List of PMADs:

1. Perinatal Depression
2. Perinatal Anxiety
3. Perinatal Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
4. Perinatal Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
5. Perinatal Bipolar Disorder
6. Perinatal Psychosis

How are PMADs tested?

PMADs are typically diagnosed through a combination of screening tools, clinical interviews, and physical exams. Here's the general process:

• Screening: Healthcare providers often use standardized screening tools to identify potential PMADs.
• Clinical Interview: A mental health professional will conduct a thorough interview to assess symptoms, their duration, and impact on daily life.
• Physical Exam: To rule out other potential causes of symptoms, such as thyroid disorders.
• Medical History Review: This helps identify any pre-existing conditions or risk factors.

The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS):

The EPDS is one of the most widely used screening tools for perinatal depression. It's a 10-question self-report scale that assesses a woman's mood over the past seven days. Here's what you need to know:

- It takes about 5 minutes to complete.
- Each question is scored from 0-3, with a total possible score of 30.
- A score of 10 or higher may indicate possible depression.
- A score of 13 or higher suggests a high likelihood of depression.
- Any non-zero score on question 10 (about self-harm) requires immediate attention.

It's important to note that the EPDS is a screening tool, not a diagnostic test. A high score should lead to further evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Using Apps like Motherocity:

Apps like Motherocity can be valuable tools for tracking mental health during the perinatal period. Here's how they can help:

• Regular Check-ins: These apps often prompt users to regularly assess their mood and symptoms.
• Tracking Over Time: They can show trends in your mental health, helping you and your healthcare provider identify patterns or changes.
• Educational Resources: Many apps provide information about PMADs, coping strategies, and when to seek help.
• Community Support: Some apps offer connections to support groups or forums.
• Postpartum Plan Creation Tool: To remind you to practice self-care activities or attend appointments and guide your supporters.
• Easy Sharing: Many apps allow you to easily share your data with healthcare providers.

Remember, while these apps can be helpful tools, they should not replace professional medical advice or treatment.

Reasons for PMADs:

PMADs are complex disorders with multiple contributing factors. Some reasons include:

• Hormonal Changes: Rapid fluctuations in hormones during pregnancy and postpartum can affect mood.
• Personal History: Previous mental health issues increase the risk of PMADs.
• Family History: Genetic factors can play a role in susceptibility to PMADs.
• Stress: Major life changes, relationship issues, or financial stress can contribute.
• Lack of Support: Insufficient emotional or practical support can increase risk.
• Traumatic Birth Experience: This can lead to PTSD or other mood disorders.
• Sleep Deprivation: Lack of sleep can exacerbate mood issues.
• Thyroid Imbalances: These can mimic or contribute to mood disorders.
• Unrealistic Expectations: Pressure to be the "perfect" parent can lead to anxiety and depression.
• Physical Health Issues: Complications during pregnancy or postpartum can impact mental health.

PMADs are serious but treatable conditions. If you're experiencing symptoms, reach out to a healthcare provider or have your supporters follows the plans in your Postpartum Plan to get you support immediately. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. With proper support and treatment, recovery is possible.