This two-hour course for providers will review foundational information on perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) and review the current landscape and recommendations for psychopharmacology in the perinatal period. Sarah Oreck, MD, Columbia-trained reproductive psychiatrist, will share her experiences supporting the mental health of pregnant, postpartum, and lactating birthing people including case studies. She will define the goals of reproductive psychiatry and address common misconceptions about medication in pregnancy. Dr. Oreck will review the safety and efficacy of psychotropic medications in pregnancy and breastfeeding and discuss confounding factors found in research studies on psychotropic medications.

Objectives:

1) Define reproductive psychiatry and identify the parameters of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders;
2) Identify 3 risks of untreated psychiatric disorders in the peripartum period;
3) Identify 3 non-pharmacologic approaches to consider prior to pursuing medication-assisted interventions;
4) Critique empirical research studies to assess for implications for pregnant and postpartum bodies including possible limitations and confounders;
5) Explain elements of safety and efficacy of psychotropic medications in pregnancy and during breast/chestfeeding.

Audience:
This course is beneficial to anyone providing healthcare during the perinatal period (physicians, midwives, nurses, mental health professionals, lactation consultants and others) who desire to increase their knowledge of the risks and benefits of pursuing medication-assisted treatment for pregnant, postpartum, and lactating individuals in order to support them in making an educated, informed decision in their pursuit of wellness and mental health.

Continuing Education (CE):

CE: This course meets the qualifications for 2 hours of continuing education for LMFTs, LPCCs, LCSWs, LEPs, and psychologists as required by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences and California Board of Psychology. Community Partners FBO Maternal Mental Health NOW is the sponsor of continuing education for this learning module and is approved by the American Psychological Association to sponsor continuing education for psychologists. Community Partners FBO Maternal Mental Health NOW as the sponsor maintains responsibility for this program and its content.

CME: CMEs are not provided for this activity.

**If you hold a license not listed here or are licensed outside of the state of California, please check with your licensing board directly to confirm that these CE credits will be accepted. We are unable to assist in verifying if CE credits will be approved for your license type/state outside of California.