Advancing research and practice in perinatal mental health

Abstract

[Excerpt] The perinatal period is characterized by multiple simultaneous changes at the biological, psychological, and social levels, affecting not only the mother, but also the father and infant. While these changes typically improve the necessary conditions and skills to safeguard pregnancy and parenting, because they occur in such a short period of time, they can also give rise to psychological problems or disorders. There is a relatively high prevalence of mental health problems in the perinatal period when compared to other moments of the life cycle, with immediate and long-term adverse consequences, particularly for fetal health and child development