Empathy and Expertise: Specialized Psychiatry in Raleigh for Women’s Reproductive Mental Health

At Raleigh Psychiatric Associates, we understand that women’s reproductive health plays a significant role in their overall well-being. Our specialized psychiatric services focus on addressing the unique women’s reproductive mental health challenges that arise during different stages of a woman’s reproductive life. 

From premenstrual depression to pregnancy to mental health changes during menopause, we are here to provide compassionate care and effective treatments.

Nurturing Women’s Reproductive Mental Health: Guiding You Through Challenges 

Women’s reproductive mental health can be influenced by various conditions and challenges throughout their reproductive cycles. Some of these conditions include:

  • Premenstrual depression and PMS
  • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
  • Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders during pregnancy
  • Postpartum anxiety and depression
  • Infertility grief and loss
  • Menopausal changes in mood, anxiety, or sleep

What’s the Difference Between PMDD vs PMS?

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of PMS. While PMS is characterized by mild to moderate physical and emotional symptoms before menstruation, PMDD symptoms are more intense and can significantly impact daily functioning

PMDD Symptoms

Not sure if you have PMS or PMDD? The symptoms of PMDD are often so intense that it makes it difficult for you to function in day-to-day life. Signs of PMDD are:

  • Feelings of sadness or hopelessness
  • Intense anxiety or tension
  • Severe mood swings
  • Increased sensitivity to rejection or criticism
  • Irritability or anger
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Fatigue or low energy
  • Insomnia or excessive sleepiness
  • Feeling overwhelmed or out of control

These symptoms typically occur during the week or two before menstruation and subside shortly after the period begins. 

PMDD Treatments

Our experienced clinicians are adept at distinguishing between PMDD vs PMS and tailoring treatment plans accordingly.  If you suspect you may have PMDD, our experts can conduct a thorough evaluation to confirm the diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment strategy.

Perinatal (Pregnancy and Postpartum) Anxiety and Depression

Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders are common and require specialized care.  

We offer a range of services to support your emotional and psychological well-being during pregnancy. Therapy services include counseling for anxiety and stress, support for perinatal loss and grief, and assistance with adjusting to the changes that come with parenthood.  Our specialized psychiatrists also offer medication consultation and ongoing medication management for pregnant women.  Many psychiatric medications can be taken during pregnancy.  Pregnant or planning a pregnancy soon?  Our psychiatrists are knowledgeable about medication safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Postpartum women have an increased risk of anxiety and depression due to a combination of hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and life stressors.  Women with a history of depression, bipolar disorder, or anxiety are at higher risk.

Signs of postpartum depression can include:

  • Persistent sadness
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Anxiety
  • Feelings of hopelessness
  • Difficulty bonding with the baby
  • Changes in appetite
  • Sleeping too much or insomnia

Read Raleigh Psychiatric Associates psychiatrist Dr. Williams’ article on postpartum anxiety in the May/June issue of Triangle Family magazine:

Download article

Our practice provides specialized pregnancy and postpartum mental health care to support new mothers through this challenging period.

Resources:

MGH Center for Women’s Mental Health

Mental Health Care During Menopause

The transition into menopause can impact mental health.  Mood changes, increased anxiety, brain fog, and sleep disruption are common.  Psychiatrists specializing in reproductive psychiatry can suggest treatment options that are preferred in menopause.  Some medications treat both physical (such as hot flashes) and mental health symptoms.

Article: Mental Health Changes During Perimenopause are Real

Take the First Step Toward Reclaiming Your Mental Well-being

For more than 40 years, our psychiatrists at Raleigh Psychiatric Associates have provided compassionate and experienced care for women’s reproductive mental health. 

Whether you’re struggling with postpartum depression, PMDD, or any other reproductive mental health condition, we are here to support you. Contact us for an appointment and discover how we can help you navigate the complexities of your reproductive mental health. Don’t wait any longer—schedule an appointment today and take a proactive step towards a healthier and happier you.