Mental Health Matters

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Mental Health Matters

September 14, 2026

September is Suicide Prevention awareness month. Many changes occur during and after pregnancy to women’s bodies, minds, and lifestyles. Some changes are normal and expected as your body changes and you adjust to life with a new baby.

Perinatal depression/anxiety affects approximately 1 in 5 pregnant women and partners. It is important to know what to expect and when to reach out for mental and emotional help during these times. Symptoms can start anytime during the perinatal period and they may differ for each person and potentially worsen in the postpartum period. They might include the following:

• Feelings of anger, irritability and/or rage

• Lack of interest in the baby

• Disturbances of sleep and appetite

• Crying and sadness

• Feelings of guilt, shame or hopelessness

• Loss of interest, joy or pleasure in things you used to enjoy

• Possible thoughts of harming the baby or yourself

Iberia Medical Center’s Obstetrics and Behavioral Health Services teams work together to maintain the mental health of moms during such a vulnerable time.

Please reach out to the National Maternal Health Hotline (For emotional support and resources, call or text 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262) 24/7), your provider, or our Behavioral Health Services team if you ever have any of these signs and symptoms. You are not alone. We are here to help.

Behavioral Health Services at Iberia Medical Center – 337-376-5713

Obstetrics Clinic at Iberia Medical Center – 337-256-8779

Need a provider? https://www.iberiamedicalcenter.com/find-a-provider

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Gestational Diabetes

Jul 26, 2023

1 min read

Updated: Apr 18, 2024

What You can Do?

Healthy Diet

In order to keep your blood sugar in a healthy range, it is recommended that you consult with a dietitian or diabetes educator to create a proper meal plan. Things to consider when planning your meals: low in sugar and carbohydrates such as sodas and bread, high in fiber such as fruit, vegetables, whole – grain crackers and cereals. Be sure you are eating a variety of foods so your body has enough vitamins and minerals. Adding 10 grams of fiber to your daily diet can reduce the risk of gestational diabetes by 26%

Exercise

Being active is a good way to help manage your blood sugar. 30 minutes of moderate activity is a typical for expecting mothers. It is always recommended check with your doctor before engaging in any form on exercise while expecting.

Test Blood Sugar & Monitor Health

It is always advised to attend all scheduled doctors’ visits to ensure that you are being checked regularly. You can also monitor your blood sugar daily – as many times as needed.

Treatment

Lifestyle changes
Blood sugar monitoring
Medication, if necessary

Dr. Jodie Gwin, OB/Gyn, is in practice with Drs. Clay Maraist and Damian Delhomme. Appointments or for more information: 337.256.8779

Content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be a substitute for personal professional medical advice or personal consultation with healthcare professionals.