Ep 241: Managing Mental Health during Pregnancy and Postpartum with Psychiatrist Dr. Stephanie Waggel

Pregnant women and people who need psychiatric medication are uniquely underserved. There’s a big knowledge gap and it’s not just the general public. Med school doesn’t teach much about mental health medication and pregnancy. Fortunately, today’s guest is here to share information and dispel myths!Dr. Stephanie Waggel is a psychiatrist certified in perinatal mental health, specifically, advanced studies in perinatal psychopharmacology (medication for pregnant people). She’s one of very few experts in her specialty so she’s working overtime to spread the word. If you need pharmaceuticals, there’s a good chance you can do so safely. Tune in and learn how to explore your options with your doctor.In this Episode, You’ll Learn About:Why Dr. Waggel uses the term “perinatal mood & anxiety disorders” (PMADs)What makes prescribers err on the side of a no-medication approachHow common it is to suffer from PMADsWhen it’s the baby blues and when it’s time to seek helpWhy Dr. Stephanie encourages people to participate in medical studiesHow therapy factors into her treatment plansHow medication can interact with breastfeedingWhen it’s time to restart medication postpartum--Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode241Check out The Birth Preparation CourseRegister for the class How to Create a Birth Plan the Right WayOur Sponsors:* Check out Dr. Mom Butt Balm: drmombuttbalm.com* Head to byheart.com/podcast my code DRNICOLE for a great deal!* Practice love every day with Paired, the #1 app for couples. Download the app at https://www.paired.com/DRNICOLE Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy