https://swiy.co/WhatAreYourThoughts

In today’s episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with my amazing friend and co-chair of the Kalamazoo Perinatal Mood Disorders Coalition, alongside myself, Kristina Ledlow ICCE, CD, CPD. After two very challenging pregnancies and postpartum periods, Kristina became especially passionate about educating families and other healthcare professionals about Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders. Kristina holds certifications as a Childbirth Educator, Birth Doula and Postpartum Doula in Kalamazoo, Michigan. She also works for OB-GYN, P.C. as their Patient Educator, and teaches classes for Bronson Methodist Hospital.

Let’s dive into Kristina’s story and expertise so that, whether you are in pediatrics, a parent, or someone who knows a parent, you can be well equipped to help moms or even yourself get connected and be okay.

[00:01 - 07:50] Opening Segment

• Introducing today's guest and my friend, Kristina Ledlow, and what we will be talking about
• Certified in Postpartum Support International (PSI)
• Doula
• Patient educator
• Kristina talks a bit of journey to expertise in PMAD and prevention
• Severe depression and anxiety during two births
• Several Risk factors going into both pregnancies
• Manifested OCD tendencies
• Connected with a therapist and put on medication
• Went into childbirth education and perinatal mood disorders

[07:51 - 12:44] The Effects of PMAD

• I talk about my shared experience with postpartum depression
• Kristina talks about the impact on partners and babies
• Mothers mood affects everyone
• Losing function
• 1 in 5 moms affected, 1 in 10 dads affected
• Dad’s can also break down from the stress and exhaustion
• Each baby comes with their own personality and challenges

[12:45 - 25:30] Ask Mom’s if They’re Ok

• Screening moms during pregnancy and postpartum
• Worry of opening a pandora's box
• Kristina talks about the importance of asking
• Using the Edinburgh tool
• Negative hormones in the mom affect the baby during pregnancy
• Social workers and network to work with patients
• Asking is therapeutic
• You’re not crazy, this happens, let me get you connected
• PMAD Virtual Care
• Get them connected
• Have a plan
• We need to get moms connected to the right people
• Use Postpartum Support International and get a coordinator involved
• 94% of moms have ‘scary thought’
• 1: OCD thoughts
• 2: Postpartum psychosis (rare but dangerous)
• Believing the thoughts to be true and acting on it
• It’s common to feel like this, it’s ok and there is help
• Putting strategies in place
• Getting good sleep by chunking

[25:31 - 34:46] Practical Advice and Actions to Face PMAD

• These disorders can last up to two years
• The strongest moms can feel like a failure
• Postpartumstress Instagram
• Don’t tie your self worth to social media
• It’s ok to feel the way you do
• Kristina shares self care tips
• Reach out and ask for help
• Support is key
• Ask: how can I help?