Nurturing Maternal Mental Health: A Holistic Approach to Care During Pregnancy & Postpartum

Why Maternal Mental Health Matters

Up to 20% of pregnant individuals experience depression or anxiety during pregnancy, while 1 in 7 face postpartum mental health challenges. Maternal mental health isn’t just about emotional well-being—it profoundly impacts fetal development, birth outcomes, and long-term family dynamics. Stress, anxiety, or untreated depression during pregnancy can elevate cortisol levels in the fetus, potentially affecting cognitive and emotional development. At Balance Medical, we recognize that mental health is inseparable from comprehensive obstetric care.

Integrating Mental Health Support into Every Stage

Balance Medical’s obstetric services emphasize early screening, personalized care, and accessible resources to address mental health proactively:

1. Prenatal Care with Mental Health Focus

• Routine Mental Health Screenings: Regular check-ups include validated tools to identify anxiety, depression, or high stress.
• Nutritional & Lifestyle Guidance: Diet and exercise plans tailored to stabilize mood and reduce pregnancy-related stressors.
• High-Risk Pregnancy Support: Collaborative management for conditions like gestational diabetes or hypertension, which can exacerbate mental health struggles.

2. Postpartum Care: Bridging the Gap

• Postpartum Checkups: Monitoring for signs of postpartum depression (PPD) or anxiety during follow-up visits.
• Lactation Support: Certified Lactation Counselors (CLCs) assist with breastfeeding challenges, which are closely linked to maternal stress.
• Referrals to Specialists: Partnerships with local mental health providers for therapy or medication management if needed.

3. Beyond Clinical Care: Building a Support Network
Balance Medical connects patients to vetted resources and community support systems to foster resilience during pregnancy and postpartum transitions.

The Balance Medical Difference

Our Bismarck-based team, led by Kristen Scholl, PA-C, and Dr. Rhonda Schafer-McLean, MD/PhD, blends primary care continuity with obstetric expertise:

• In-House Lab Work: Streamlined testing reduces logistical stress.
• Collaborative Care: Seamless coordination with delivery teams and mental health professionals.
• Certified Lactation Counselors: Evidence-based support for breastfeeding challenges, a common trigger for postpartum anxiety.

Take the Next Step

If you’re navigating pregnancy or postpartum recovery, Balance Medical offers compassionate, integrated care that prioritizes both physical and mental health. Contact their Bismarck team to build a personalized care plan tailored to your needs.