Lavender, used historically for anxiety, stress, depression, and sleep, may provide benefits through aromatherapy or oral forms. Evidence supports potential effects, though safety and efficacy in pregnancy and breastfeeding remain unclear.
Perinatal depression and anxiety remain underdiagnosed and undertreated despite ACOG guidelines recommending universal, repeated screening across pregnancy and postpartum visits.
According to a recent meta-analysis, about one out of every five women has at least one type of anxiety disorder during pregnancy or the postpartum period.
The recent FDA expert panel focused largely on the risks of SSRIs during pregnancy; however, medical organizations and experts support the important role of SSRIs and other medications in supporting maternal mental health.
This study uncovers how trauma, isolation, loss of identity, and lack of support can overlap and amplify each other, deepening despair and driving suicide risk among women in the perinatal period.
If you or someone you know is in crisis, confidential support is available.
Folic Acid Awareness Week (Sept 7–14, 2025) focuses on the importance of daily folic acid supplements for women to prevent birth defects, as diet alone is often insufficient.
The recent FDA expert panel focused largely on the risks of SSRIs during pregnancy; Dr. Freeman weighs in on the information provided in the report.
The recent FDA expert panel focused largely on the risks of SSRIs during pregnancy but ignored or diminished the risks associated with untreated depression in the mother.Â
The recent FDA expert panel focused largely on the risks of SSRIs during pregnancy but ignored or diminished the risks associated with untreated depression in the mother.Â
