Pregnancy brings significant physical, hormonal, and emotional change. For many women, this includes the onset or worsening of anxiety, depression, or mood instability. These symptoms are common—but they are not trivial—and they deserve the same thoughtful consideration as any other medical condition during pregnancy.
When treatment is discussed, conversations often default to avoiding medication altogether. This can unintentionally frame “no treatment” as the safest option. Clinically, that framing is incomplete. Choosing not to treat anxiety or depression is not a risk-free decision; it is one option among several, each with potential benefits and risks.
Perinatal anxiety and depression can present in many ways, including:
These symptoms are not simply “normal pregnancy stress.” When they persist or escalate, they can meaningfully affect quality of life and prenatal well-being.
When weighing treatment options, it is essential to consider the risks of untreated mental health conditions during pregnancy. Research consistently shows associations between untreated anxiety or depression and:
For the pregnant person, untreated symptoms can also contribute to poor sleep, missed prenatal care, increased substance use, and worsening psychiatric symptoms over time.
In other words, “no medication” does not mean “no risk.”
A common misconception is that treatment decisions during pregnancy involve choosing between:
A more accurate clinical question is:
What are the potential risks of treatment compared with the risks of ongoing, untreated anxiety or depression—for this individual, at this point in pregnancy?
Many medications used to treat anxiety and depression have been studied in pregnancy. While no intervention is entirely without risk, the available evidence for commonly used treatments does not support a large increase in major birth defects. When medication-related newborn effects occur, they are often mild and temporary.
This does not mean medication is always the right choice. It means medication should be evaluated thoughtfully, rather than dismissed reflexively.
There is no single answer that fits everyone. The safest and most appropriate plan depends on:
For some women, therapy and non-pharmacologic strategies may be sufficient. For others, medication may be essential to maintain stability and prevent escalation.
High-quality perinatal mental health care involves careful assessment over time, transparent discussion of both treatment and non-treatment risks, and shared decision-making that respects patient autonomy.
Yes. Anxiety and depression are common during pregnancy and can occur even in people without a prior mental health history. Experiencing symptoms does not mean you are failing at pregnancy or parenting.
Not necessarily. Untreated anxiety or depression carries real risks. The safest option is the one that balances treatment risks against the risks of ongoing symptoms, based on an individual clinical assessment.
For some people, yes—especially when symptoms are mild to moderate and support systems are strong. For others, therapy alone may not be sufficient, and additional treatment options may be appropriate.
Abruptly stopping an effective medication can increase the risk of symptom relapse. Decisions about continuing, adjusting, or changing medication should be made thoughtfully with a knowledgeable provider.
Ideally, decisions are made collaboratively, taking into account symptom severity, prior history, available evidence, and patient preferences—rather than fear-based or one-size-fits-all recommendations.
Mental health during pregnancy deserves the same nuance and respect as any other aspect of prenatal care. When anxiety or depression is present, the decision is rarely between “risk” and “no risk.” Instead, it is about choosing the path that offers the greatest overall safety and well-being for both parent and baby.
Thoughtful treatment—whether that includes therapy, medication, or both—can be an important part of a healthy pregnancy.
Conscious Psychiatry is a specialized mental health practice that takes a holistic, evidence-based approach to women's mental wellness throughout all life stages. Founded by Jordan Gough, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in critical care, our practice combines traditional and alternative treatment options to provide comprehensive, personalized care.
Our Philosophy: We believe that every individual deserves to be heard, supported, and empowered on their journey to better mental health. Our approach is rooted in empathy, empowerment, and evidence-based practices, ensuring that you feel validated and understood throughout your treatment.
Specialized Services:
Our Approach: We treat the whole person, not just symptoms. By integrating mental health support, hormone therapy when appropriate, and lifestyle medicine, we help women navigate life's transitions with confidence and optimal well-being.
Insurance and Accessibility: We accept insurance for psychiatric evaluations and follow-ups, making mental health care accessible. Our hormone therapy services are offered on a transparent, self-pay basis to ensure the comprehensive time and attention this specialized care requires.
Located in Denver, Colorado, Conscious Psychiatry serves women throughout the region who are seeking compassionate, expert care during perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. We're here to help you reclaim your mental wellness and thrive through life's changes.
Contact us today to learn how we can support your journey to optimal mental and hormonal health.
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Address: 950 S Cherry St Suite 1675, Denver, CO 80246
