439: Caring for Two: The Essentials of Psychiatric Medication in Pregnancy with Dr. Stacy Stuart

Mom and Mind

“I have to stop taking my mental health medications during pregnancy, right?” This question is a common one for pregnant moms, and the answer might surprise you. There are many misconceptions about medications during pregnancy, especially those for mental health conditions. Many moms have been misinformed about their available options, and today’s expert guest is here to set the record straight. If you are suffering from mental health conditions and are newly pregnant, it is essential to know your options. Join us to learn the risks and benefits of medications, what to look for in a provider who meets your needs, and much more.

Dr. Stacy Stuart is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Auburn University and is currently in private practice, contracting with Revival Psychiatry in Athens, AL. She is married to her husband, Will, and is the proud mom of two kids, ages 8 and 6. In her free time, Dr. Stacy enjoys watching football, coordinating neighborhood events, and taking long naps with the family dog.

Show Highlights:

• Dr. Stacy’s path to her specialty practice and her current work

• Common misconceptions about medications during pregnancy

• It is important that medications are not abruptly stopped when someone becomes pregnant!

• The need to expedite patients’ appointments in a more timely manner

• Barriers that keep healthcare providers from feeling comfortable in supporting pregnant moms

• Dr. Stacy’s goal: providing education and information that opens up possibilities for people

• Tips for finding a psychiatric treatment provider

• Advocating for collaborative healthcare

• Dr. Stacy’s project: using the EPDS screening tool at 28 weeks of pregnancy

• Dr. Stacy’s wish for the future of reproductive psychiatry

• Today’s takeaway: “Mental health affects physical health. It cannot be set aside for 10 months.”

Resources:

Connect with Dr. Stacy Stuart: Website, Instagram, and Facebook

Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov

Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International, or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services.

You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram, Facebook, and most other platforms

Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.

Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today!

If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients!

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