Valerie* felt well prepared for childbirth.
She had done several labor and child-birthing courses.
She had employed the services of a doula.
Getty Images / Design by Catherine Kim
She left the hospital over 30 pounds heavier than when she checked in.
My bones hurt in my body because the swelling was so intense, she says.
I couldn’t walk because I couldn’t bend at the ankles.
I had a hard time breathing; there was so much pressure in my chest.
The whole experience left her shaken.
It was the total opposite end of the spectrum from what we had planned, she says.
It was the most wonderful experience and the worst experience of my life, both at the same time.
Its really hard to admit that you might not be in control of your mind.
Postpartum depression andpostpartum anxietyare the most common PMADs with15%and10%of women experiencing each condition respectively.
Valeries swelling eventually resolved, but her postpartum complications werent over.
Only a week after giving birth, she started to experience anxiety and intrusive thoughts.
These thoughts come from absolutely nowhere.
You’re like,Why am I thinking of this?
Why did I just have this thought?
Am I going to hurt myself?None of it makes sense, she says.
It’s really hard to admit that you might not be in control of your mind.
Like so many women, Valerie didnt knowhow to get helpor how to talk about it with her ob-gyn.
I was afraid for a few reasons, she says.
I didn’t want to seem like I couldn’t handle it.
I didn’t want to seem like I was ungrateful for my daughter.
I didn’t want to be judged or not deemed fit to care for my child.
That fear of being judged often keeps women silent.
Valeriedid knowthat she needed to seek help.
I wanted to check that that I could be there as best as possible.
Patients can also use the telemedicine service to connect with lactation consultants who are not readily available across Arkansas.
Having early and convenient access to treatment was life-changing for Valerie.
Just knowing that made me feel 10 times stronger and more secure.
Is telemedicine making a real difference for moms?
Even with the increased availability of teletherapy since the pandemic, it’s still not an option for everyone.
Many women, like Valerie, end up paying out-of-pocket, which isn’t an option for everyone.
But for Valerie it was exactly what she needed.
*Names have been changed.
If you’re struggling postpartum, call or text the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at1-833-943-5746.
