Women’s Mental Health &
Reproductive Psychiatry
Women’s Mental Health Matters: Managing Emotional Wellness Through Preconception, PMDD, Pregnancy, Infertility, Menopause, and Beyond
Dr. Nguyen is a board-certified, fellowship-trained psychiatrist with over a decade of experience
specializing in women’s mental health. She is dedicated to supporting individuals through the
unique psychological challenges that arise during pregnancy and throughout all stages of
womanhood. Her clinical expertise includes reproductive psychiatry, perinatal mood and anxiety
disorders, and emotional difficulties related to hormonal transitions such as menstrual cycles, infertility, pregnancy, the postpartum period, and menopause.
Dr. Nguyen earned her medical degree from Creighton University School of Medicine and
completed her psychiatry residency at the University of Illinois at Chicago Medical Center. She
then pursued specialized fellowship training in Women’s Mental Health and Reproductive
Psychiatry, the largest program of its kind in the United States. During her fellowship, she trained
under the mentorship of Dr. Marcela Almeida, who is now a faculty member in the Department of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women’s Hospital.
Whether you are managing mild symptoms or facing more complex mental health concerns, you are not alone. Your mental health matters at every stage of life, and our team is here to support
you with compassion, expert care, and a commitment to your well-being.
A Complete Guide to Emotional Wellness at Every Stage of Life
Premenstrual Disorders
Many women experience physical and emotional symptoms before their period, known as Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), which can include mild to moderate mood changes and discomfort. When symptoms are severe enough to disrupt daily life, it may be Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD).
PMS Symptoms:
- Fatigue or low energy
- Bloating or breast tenderness
- Sleep or appetite changes
- Mild anxiety or sadness
Irritability or mood swings
PMDD Symptoms:
- Severe mood swings or emotional sensitivity
- Depression or feelings of hopelessness
- Intense irritability or anger
- Anxiety or tension
- Difficulty concentrating
- Physical symptoms like bloating, muscle pain, or headaches
Important Note:
While PMS is manageable for many, PMDD can significantly disrupt daily functioning and emotional well-being. If your symptoms feel intense or unmanageable, support is available.
Perinatal Mental Health
The perinatal period includes pregnancy and the first 12 months postpartum, marked by significant hormonal, emotional, and physical changes. Hormone shifts, sleep loss, identity changes, and new responsibilities can affect mental health. These common challenges are treatable with timely, compassionate care. While we specialize in common perinatal conditions, we also address a broad range of concerns. For other needs, please submit a new patient request or contact us by email. We offer personalized, evidence-based care for you and your family.
Baby Blues
What It Is: A temporary and very common emotional state affecting new mothers within the first week after childbirth. Symptoms typically appear 2–3 days postpartum and resolve on their own within two weeks.
Symptoms:
- Mood swings and tearfulness
- Irritability and restlessness
- Feeling overwhelmed or anxious
- Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
Perinatal Depression or Postpartum Depression
What It Is: Major depressive episodes that occur during pregnancy (antenatal depression) or within the first year postpartum (postpartum depression). This condition is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in daily activities, including those related to the newborn. It is distinct from the transient baby blues, which are mild mood disturbances that typically resolve within two weeks after childbirth. Perinatal
depression can significantly impair a mother’s ability to care for herself and her baby, affecting both maternal and infant well-being.
Symptoms:
- Persistent sadness, anxiety, or empty mood most of the day, nearly every
- day, for at least two weeks
- Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
- Irritability, frustration, or restlessness
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
- Fatigue or abnormal decrease in energy
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decision
- Difficulty sleeping or oversleeping
- Changes in appetite or unplanned weight changes
- Physical aches or pains without a clear physical cause
- Trouble bonding with the baby
- Persistent doubts about the ability to care for the baby
Important Note: Perinatal depression is one of the most common complications of pregnancy and the postpartum period. It can interfere with the ability to care for the child and may contribute to long-term developmental issues in the child. Early recognition and treatment are crucial for the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby.
Perinatal Anxiety
What It Is: Anxiety disorders that occur during pregnancy (antenatal anxiety) and within the first 12 months postpartum (postpartum anxiety). These disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and specific phobias, which can significantly impact a mother’s well-being and daily functioning.
Symptoms:
- Excessive worry about the baby s health or safety
- Racing thoughts and panic attacks
- Physical symptoms such as heart palpitations or dizziness
- Difficulty relaxing or sleeping
- Avoidance of feared situations
- Restlessness and hypervigilance
Important Note: Perinatal anxiety can be intense and overwhelming, often going unnoticed. It is highly treatable with support and proper care. Early intervention is crucial for the well-being of both the parent and the baby.
Perinatal Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
What It Is: The condition is characterized by intrusive, distressing thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) aimed at reducing anxiety. These symptoms often focus on fears of harming the baby, despite the absence of intent to act. The condition can emerge during pregnancy or within the first year postpartum.
Symptoms:
- Intrusive thoughts of harming the baby (without intent to act)
- Fears of contamination or making a mistake
- Worries about being judged as a mother
- Concerns about the baby s safety or well-being
Compulsions May Include:
- Repeated checking on the baby
- Excessive cleaning or sanitizing
- Avoiding being alone with the baby
- Seeking constant reassurance
Important Note: Individuals with perinatal OCD are aware that their thoughts are irrational but feel compelled to perform rituals to alleviate distress. The condition is highly treatable with appropriate support and care.
Perinatal Specific Phobia
What It Is: the condition is characterized by an intense, irrational fear of a specific object or situation during pregnancy or the first 12 months postpartum. Unlike generalized anxiety, this condition is triggered by particular stimuli, such as medical procedures, childbirth-related scenarios, or certain environments. The fear leads to avoidance behaviors and significant distress.
Symptoms:
- Intense fear or anxiety when exposed to a specific object or situation
- Avoidance of situations that may trigger the phobia
- Physical symptoms such as sweating, trembling, or dizziness when
- confronted with the phobic stimulus
- Distress that interferes with daily functioning
Important Note: Perinatal specific phobia can significantly impact a woman’s ability to engage in necessary medical care, affecting both maternal and fetal health. Early recognition and appropriate treatment are crucial for ensuring optimal outcomes.
Perinatal Panic Disorder
What It Is: The condition is characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks during pregnancy (antenatal) or within the first 12 months postpartum (postpartum). These attacks involve sudden surges of intense fear or discomfort, accompanied by physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, chills, or hot flashes. Individuals may also experience feelings of choking, chest pain, nausea, or abdominal distress.
Symptoms:
- Recurrent, unexpected panic attacks
- Persistent concern or worry about additional panic attacks
- Significant behavioral changes related to the attacks
- Physical symptoms such as heart palpitations, sweating, trembling,
- shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, chills, or hot flashes
- Feelings of choking, chest pain, nausea, or abdominal distress
Important Note: Perinatal panic disorder can significantly impact a mother’s ability to care for herself and her baby. Early recognition and treatment are crucial for the health and well-being of both the mother and the infant.
Postpartum Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
What It Is: Results from a traumatic birth, medical emergency, or feeling powerless during labor and delivery. Risk factors are emergency cesarean, NICU admission, birth trauma, or prior trauma history.
Symptoms:
- Flashbacks or nightmares related to childbirth
- Avoidance of reminders or locations associated with the birth
- Hypervigilance or emotional numbness
- Irritability or anger
- Physical anxiety symptoms (e.g., racing heart, sweating)
Important Note: Postpartum PTSD can deeply affect emotional well-being and relationships. Trauma-informed care is essential for recovery.
Postpartum Psychosis
What It Is: A rare but serious psychiatric emergency that typically develops very rapidly, often within the first 24 to 72 hours up to 2 weeks after childbirth. Symptoms progress quickly and require urgent medical attention.
Symptoms:
- Hallucinations or delusions
- Severe confusion or disorientation
- Paranoia or bizarre behavior
- Rapid mood swings and agitation
- Risk of harm to self or baby
Important Note: Postpartum psychosis demands immediate medical care. It is strongly linked to a history of bipolar disorder or previous psychotic episodes. Early recognition and treatment are critical for safety and recovery.
Infertility Related Mental Health
Fertility challenges including infertility, pregnancy loss, and unsuccessful treatments can
deeply impact emotional well-being, often causing grief, anxiety, and depression. Studies
show 24% – 41% of women facing infertility meet criteria for clinical anxiety or depression,
with many experiencing suicidal thoughts.
Hormonal treatments in assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF and IUI may
worsen mood through irritability and emotional instability. The physical effects of medications and treatment unpredictability add to psychological distress.
Social stigma, cultural, and religious expectations often increase this burden. Nearly half
of women in fertility treatment feel misunderstood or isolated, with common experiences
like pregnancy announcements triggering sadness or shame.
Acknowledging these emotional impacts is vital. Integrating mental health support into
fertility care improves resilience, treatment outcomes, and quality of life.
Menopause Related Mental Health Changes
The transition to menopause, including perimenopause, often brings significant mental health challenges. Hormonal fluctuations affect brain neurotransmitters, leading to mood swings, anxiety, and depression. About 20% of women experience clinical depression during this time, even without prior history. Women with a history of depression are at higher risk, and midlife stressors like caregiving and career changes can increase symptoms. Mental health changes during menopause are real and treatable. With proper care, women can manage symptoms and thrive through midlife and beyond.
Before Menopause (Perimenopause)
Perimenopause involves notable hormonal fluctuations, especially irregular declines in estrogen, which affect mood and cognitive function. Many women experience mood swings, anxiety, and depression during this phase, with approximately 20% meeting the criteria for clinical depression. Women with a history of depression face a higher risk of relapse during perimenopause. Additionally, midlife stressors such as family and work demands can worsen symptoms. Accurate diagnosis is essential to distinguish hormonal influences from other mental health conditions and to provide appropriate, individualized treatment.
During Menopause
During menopause, mental health challenges often continue or worsen. Sleep disturbances from night sweats and circadian changes can cause insomnia, worsening anxiety and depression. Cognitive issues like forgetfulness and poor concentration often called brain fog”—are common but usually temporary. It’s important to rule out other causes such as thyroid problems or nutritional deficiencies. Memory aids, brain exercises, and treating related symptoms can help manage these cognitive challenges.
Postmenopause
Postmenopause is typically marked by hormonal stabilization, which often leads to improvements in mood and cognition. However, some women continue to experience mood or cognitive symptoms that impact their quality of life. A comprehensive, holistic approach remains important. Treatment options may include menopausal hormone therapy, in consultation with an OB/GYN, antidepressants or anxiolytics, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications such as diet, exercise, and mindfulness practices.
Other Hormonal Related Conditions
Beyond menopause, other hormonal disorders can also impact mental health. Conditions such as thyroid dysfunction (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism),
polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and adrenal disorders like Cushing’s syndrome or Addison’s disease may cause mood disturbances, anxiety, depression, and cognitive difficulties. Thyroid imbalances are common and
can mimic or worsen menopausal symptoms. PCOS, marked by hormonal irregularities, may contribute to anxiety and depression through biological and
psychosocial factors. Adrenal disorders affecting cortisol levels influence emotional regulation and stress response. A thorough medical evaluation is essential to accurately diagnose and treat these conditions. Integrating endocrine and mental health care supports a holistic approach to overall well-being.
Partnering to Support Women’s Mental Health
At YOU Psychiatry Clinic, we believe comprehensive care comes from strong partnerships. We work closely with healthcare providers, mental health professionals, and community organizations to support women experiencing hormone-related mental health challenges.
We welcome referrals from a broad range of healthcare professionals, including:
- Obstetrician-Gynecologists (OB/GYNs)
- Obstetrician-Gynecologists (OB/GYNs)
- Primary Care Clinicians
- Pediatricians
- Perinatal Therapists
- Pelvic Floor Physical Therapists
- Lactation Consultants
- Infertility and Reproductive Specialists
- Integrative and Functional Medicine
- Clinicians
- Dietitians and Nutritionists
Our Commitment:
Providing timely psychiatric assessments, personalized treatment plans, and clear communication to address both physical and mental health needs.
We partner with specialists such as:
- Marriage and Family Therapists
- Women s Mental Health Therapists
- Multidisciplinary Group Practices
- Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurse
- Practitioners/Physician Assistants
Our Approach:
Delivering coordinated care through second opinions, co-management, and expert consultation for conditions including PMDD, perinatal mood disorders, postpartum psychosis, and menopausal disorders.
To support holistic care, we collaborate with
community organizations like:
- Doulas and Birth Workers
- Breastfeeding Support Groups and Lactation
- Clinics
- New Mom Groups and Postpartum Circles
- Childbirth Education Classes
- Infertility Support Groups
- Yoga and Wellness Studios
- Midlife and Menopausal Wellness Circles
- Trusted Infertility Treatment Clinics
Our Goal:
Ensuring women have access to specialized
mental health services and supportive networks throughout their health journey.
Our Goal:
Ensuring women have access to specialized mental health services and supportive networks throughout their health journey.
Refer a Patient
To refer a patient or learn more about our collaborative care model, please complete the referral form below.