Beyond the ‘baby blues’
University Health is uniquely positioned as a regional leader in care for mental health conditions facing birthing people. We are the only hospital system in the region with a behavioral health hospital that allows multi-disciplinary care for all patients including those that are pregnant or postpartum.
Tiffany Ruffin, PsyD is a clinical psychologist who’s a key player in Women’s Health. Dr. Ruffin is part of the Women’s Health team, meaning prenatal and postnatal patients have access to her at their regularly scheduled OB/women’s health appointment. We’ve also streamlined the process so it’s easy for women who need the care of a psychiatrist (a medical doctor who specializes in mental health and can prescribe medication) to be seen.
The experts know that what used to be called “post-partum depression” can impact the pregnant person, how they bond with their newborn, their relationship with their partner and so much more. The updated term is Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder (PMADs). Dr. Ruffin says that’s more accurate because new mothers may show symptoms such as:
- Intense anxiety
- Feeling ‘foggy’ and not being able to concentrate
- Little interest in what you used to enjoy
- Feeling guilty, like a failure of a parent
Two of the factors that can help a women avoid a PMAD are success at breastfeeding a new born, and having strong support from a partner and or family. “The best thing a partner or loved one can do is validate the struggle and take any concerns serious,” said Dr. Ruffin. “Help advocate for the birthing person to get additional support and resources so they don’t feel like they are in it alone.”
To learn more about our Maternal Mental Healthcare, call a nurse navigator at 816-404-BABY.