What is Perinatal Psychology?
Perinatal Psychology is a specialty of Psychology oriented to care, prevention, support, diagnosis and intervention in families during the process prior to birth, that is, during pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum.
This type of therapy helps to establish a healthy bond between the baby, the mother and the family. The orientation is focused on the promotion of mental health in relation to pregnancy, childbirth and parenting and on the prevention of mental health pathology in women during this period.
It is worth mentioning that Perinatal Psychology involves different psychology professionals, since interdisciplinary work allows specialists to create a working space with the mother in order to provide the emotional and psychological support that the situation requires.
Why Perinatal Psychology?
The importance of a perinatal accompaniment is fundamental, especially in new mothers, since in addition to allowing the establishment of the bond between mother and baby, it will also lay the foundations of a stable psychic structure.
Perinatal Psychology addresses all the emotional changes that occur during motherhood.
In some cases, perinatal disorders appear months after the birth, so it is advisable to start a treatment in Perinatal Psychology beforehand, as it will allow to face this situation in a calm way and with the help of professionals.
When to ask for help?
Although the most common problem related to motherhood is postpartum depression, other types of psychological or emotional problems such as anxiety and OCD can also appear. And although perinatal psychology focuses on solving problems, it also has a supportive and preventive function.
Benefits of psychological therapy during perinatal period
- Psychological preparation to face motherhood.
- Prevention of possible complications in the couple’s relationship.
- Identifying irrational thoughts regarding pregnancy, childbirth or parenting.
- Learning and adopting strategies to help control worries, fears and anxiety.