Perinatal Disorders

Risk factors

Women who have a previous mental health history are at greater risk of developing perinatal mental health conditions, and psychosocial risk factors increase the risk of onset, relapse, or worsening of mental health conditions in the perinatal period.  

Risk factors for mental health issues among fathers in the perinatal period include previous history of mental health issues, poor physical health, relationship difficulties, inadequate social support, partner mental health difficulties, financial and employment-related difficulties. 

Causes

Causes of perinatal disorders may include the following:

  • previous mental illness
  • family history
  • low self-esteem
  • self-criticism or perfectionism
  • physical health problems
  • hormonal imbalance
  • loneliness and isolation
  • separation
  • substance abuse
  • loss of intimacy
  • history of abuse
  • negative of stressful life events 
Symptoms Diagnosis