Earthly Balance Perinatal Care

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Services

What is Perinatal Health?

Perinatal care refers to the comprehensive health services provided to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and the first year after delivery. The perinatal period is crucial for both the mother and the baby, as it encompasses significant physical, emotional, and psychological changes. Understanding the perinatal definition is essential for everyone, as it highlights the importance of this phase in ensuring the health and well-being of both mothers and their newborns. Effective perinatal care includes regular check-ups, prenatal education, and support systems to address any potential risks or complications. By prioritizing this vital stage of life, we can foster healthier families and communities.

Why is Perinatal Care Important?

According to Center for Disease Control, there is a critical issue of pregnancy-related death, defined as the death of a woman during pregnancy or within one year after its conclusion, irrespective of the pregnancy’s outcome or duration. This includes deaths from any causes related to or exacerbated by the pregnancy or its management, excluding accidental or incidental causes. Understanding the nuances of these definitions is essential for accurate comparisons of maternal mortality rates. Alarmingly, estimates suggest that 20% to 50% of maternal deaths result from preventable causes, including hemorrhage, severe hypertension, pulmonary embolism, infections, and heart disease, alongside significant racial disparities.

Additionally, mental health plays a crucial role, with suicide being a notable cause of maternal mortality, particularly in the postpartum period, often linked to postpartum depression. There is active studies evaluating the rates of maternal deaths from suicide during the year following delivery, as many such tragedies occur between 9 to 12 months postpartum. Together, we strive to raise awareness and reduce these preventable deaths, ensuring safer pregnancies and healthier mothers.

Perinatal Care Services

Perinatal Health Services We Offer

Mental Health Diagnosis
Perinatal Mental Health Conditions: Conditions like depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, and substance use disorders are common during this time. Regular mental health screenings throughout pregnancy and after birth to identify potential mental health issues. Treatment Options: Therapy, medication, or a combination of both to manage mental health conditions.
Collaboration with Provider
We will communicate closely with the client’s primary providers to bridge the gap between discharge home and follow-up appointments. We will also keep the preferred provider up to date on any noted changes to facilitate timely intervention.
Counseling Services
Virtual emotional and psychological support through therapy or counseling to address anxiety, depression, or stress during and after childbirth.
Substance Use Support
Providing resources for mothers dealing with substance use, focusing on abstinence and recovery during the perinatal period.
Postpartum Check-ups
Medical visits typically within the first six weeks after childbirth to monitor the mother's health, address complications (e.g., infections, bleeding), and offer advice on birth control and mental health. The frequency of visits is individualized.
Managing Pre-existing Medical Conditions
Care for pre-existing conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity during pregnancy. Addressing complications by being proactive monitoring and caring for potential complications such as premature labor, and/or complications needing immediate interventions.
Maternal Medical Condition Monitoring
Blood pressure monitoring with regular checks for high blood pressure, especially in those at risk for preeclampsia or gestational hypertension. Blood sugar monitoring for mothers with gestational diabetes or those at risk, blood sugar levels are monitored to ensure proper management.
Lactation & Feeding Support
We provide support with breastfeeding, ensuring correct latching and a sufficient milk supply. Breastfeeding Assistance: Addressing challenges like sore nipples, mastitis, or low milk production.
Weight Gain Monitoring
Guidance on healthy weight gain during pregnancy, tailored to the individual's needs. Managing Medical Conditions: Care for pre-existing conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and obesity during pregnancy.
Educational Support
Connecting mothers with community resources and networks, particularly for those experiencing mental health challenges. Parenting Support: Access to parenting classes and resources to help parents adjust to their new roles.