Ep 241: Managing Mental Health during Pregnancy and Postpartum with Psychiatrist Dr. Stephanie Waggel

Pregnant women and people who need psychiatric medication are uniquely underserved. There’s a big knowledge gap and it’s not just the general public. Med school doesn’t teach much about mental health medication and pregnancy. Fortunately, today’s guest is here to share information and dispel myths!Dr. Stephanie Waggel is a psychiatrist certified in perinatal mental health, specifically, advanced studies in perinatal psychopharmacology (medication for pregnant people). She’s one of very few experts in her specialty so she’s working overtime to spread the word. If you need pharmaceuticals, there’s a good chance you can do so safely. Tune in and learn how to explore your options with your doctor.In this Episode, You’ll Learn About:Why Dr. Waggel uses the term “perinatal mood & anxiety disorders” (PMADs)What makes prescribers err on the side of a no-medication approachHow common it is to suffer from PMADsWhen it’s the baby blues and when it’s time to seek helpWhy Dr. Stephanie encourages people to participate in medical studiesHow therapy factors into her treatment plansHow medication can interact with breastfeedingWhen it’s time to restart medication postpartum--Full website notes: drnicolerankins.com/episode241Check out The Birth Preparation CourseRegister for the class How to Create a Birth Plan the Right WayOur Sponsors:* Check out Ritual and get 25% off your first month! - https://ritual.com/DRNICOLE* Give Armoire a try and get up to 50% off your first month, that’s up to $125 OFF! Just visit armoire.style/DRNICOLE* Head to AvocadoMattress.com today and save up to ten percent on certified organic mattresses. Dream of Better – for you and the planet. - https://www.avocadogreenmattress.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Om Podcasten

Birth With Power is the go-to podcast for expecting mothers who want to take charge of their birth experience. Hosted by Dr. Nicole Calloway Rankins, a practicing, board-certified OB/GYN with over 20 years of experience and thousands of births attended, this podcast delivers accurate, expert advice, real birth stories, and honest conversations to get you informed and empowered. Through solo episodes, guest interviews, and inspiring birth stories, you’ll get the tools to navigate pregnancy, labor, and postpartum with calm and confidence. Whether you’re planning your first birth or your fourth, Birth With Power will help you approach the journey feeling strong, prepared, and empowered. Subscribe today and take charge of your birth!