What is Reproductive Psychiatry?
Do you wonder if seeing a specialist in reproductive psychiatry is right for you? Have you wondered what a reproductive psychiatrist is?
A reproductive psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has completed a psychiatry residency. After finishing their residency, they then complete further training in reproductive psychiatry.
Reproductive psychiatry focuses on the changes to mental health during the reproductive years. This field recognizes that psychiatric disorders during the reproductive years can be more complex and require in-depth knowledge and ongoing active research.
Why the Reproductive Years are Complex
Factors that make this time more complex are the dynamic changes to hormones during pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding, as well as hormonal changes during menopause and throughout the menstrual cycle. These “neuro-hormones” act directly on the brain’s chemistry, requiring a specialized understanding of how to balance mental health with shifting biology.
When to Seek Specialized Care
Some common reasons a person may see a reproductive psychiatrist are medication planning before pregnancy, mental health problems during pregnancy, or postpartum mental health issues.
Some seek a reproductive psychiatrist for medication optimization while breastfeeding, ensuring the safety of both parent and child. Yet, others come for mood changes near their menstrual cycle (such as PMDD) or during the transition into menopause.
Expert Support for the Whole Family
One in seven mothers will suffer from postpartum depression, while many others will suffer from postpartum anxiety. Having a doctor specialized in treating your issue and understanding the complex dynamics that contribute to it can be priceless.
There is a common misunderstanding that reproductive psychiatry is only for women, but one in ten men suffers from postpartum depression. Men also struggle with reproductive issues such as delayed ejaculation and decreased mobility of sperm. These issues may be related to the male’s psychiatric medication, or medications may assist with the problem.
If you are struggling with a reproductive psychiatric issue, expert help is available to help you return to your best self.
Resources for Further Learning
- CDC: Depression Among Women
- NAMI: Maternal Mental Health Resources
- Postpartum Support International (PSI)
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This post was medically reviewed byDr. Asheena Lee,a Board-Certified Psychiatrist with 14 years of experience specializing in reproductive and perinatal mental health. She founded Fully Living Clinic to provide high-level, personalized care to the Long Beach community.
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