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Perinatal and Postnatal Psychologists in Eastern Melbourne

Pregnancy, becoming a parent and adjusting to life with a new baby can bring profound emotional, physical and practical changes. Alongside joy or excitement, women may experience anxiety, low mood, overwhelm, changes in identity or relationships, or find the adjustment very different from what they expected. Psychological support can help with the many challenges that can arise during this period.

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What are Perinatal and Postnatal Issues?

Pregnancy and the period after having a baby involve significant physical, emotional and psychological changes. For some women, this can be a time of adjustment as they adapt to pregnancy, birth, becoming a mother, changes in identity and relationships, and the demands of caring for a baby. Hormonal and other physiological changes, disrupted sleep and the experience of pregnancy or birth can also affect emotional wellbeing.

Difficulties during this period can take many forms. Some women experience anxiety, low mood, intrusive thoughts, heightened worry about their baby, irritability or feeling overwhelmed, while others may struggle with expectations of motherhood, changes in their sense of self or relationships, or adjusting to how different life now feels.

Some emotional upheaval is understandable during such a major transition. When difficulties are particularly distressing or persistent, or simply feel hard to navigate, psychological support can help women understand what they are experiencing and find their way through this period.

Possible Signs of Perinatal and Postnatal Difficulties

Perinatal and Postnatal Difficulties shows up differently for everyone, but there are some common threads. If a few of these feel familiar, it might be worth talking to someone.

  • Feeling overwhelmed by pregnancy or motherhood
  • Persistent sadness or low mood
  • Feeling anxious or constantly on edge
  • Excessive worry about your baby
  • Intrusive or unwanted thoughts
  • Feeling disconnected from your baby
  • Feeling unlike yourself
  • Struggling with changes in identity
  • Difficulty adjusting to changed relationships
  • Irritability or feeling easily overwhelmed
  • Feeling guilty or not good enough
  • Difficulty coping with everyday demands

Find a Psychologist for Perinatal and Postnatal Difficulties

These psychologists and therapists have experience supporting people with Perinatal and Postnatal Difficulties. Explore their profiles to find someone who feels like the right fit for you.

Enquire about seeing a psychologist for Perinatal and Postnatal

Please feel welcome to share with us what’s been going on. We’ll take the time to understand your needs during a free 15-minute chat and help you identify the psychologist who’s the best match for you.

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