Understanding the Emotional Landscape of Parenthood

Motherhood is often portrayed in soft, glowing tones: joyful anticipation, tender bonding, and unconditional love. But for many, the reality of pregnancy and the postpartum period is layered with emotional upheaval, mental health struggles, and an overwhelming pressure to be “grateful” and “happy.” Perinatal and Reproductive Psychiatry exist to acknowledge these complexities and provide compassionate, evidence-based care to those navigating the emotional terrain of conception, pregnancy, birth, and early parenthood.