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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 

 

Is It Safe to be Vaccinated Against the Flu During Pregnancy?

Oct 14, 2025
1 min read

You’re at higher risk of flu during pregnancy than when you’re not pregnant. That’s because pregnancy naturally suppresses your immune system, which is your body’s defense against illness. 


While flu in pregnancy is serious, it is also a treatable illness. When diagnosed early, pregnancy-safe treatments can help reduce symptoms and shorten the length of the illness. Doctors recommend an annual flu shot for prevention. Flu shots given during pregnancy help protect both the pregnant mother and the baby from flu. 


The flu shot usually becomes available in September and is offered throughout flu season. Protection begins about 2 weeks after you get the flu shot and lasts at least six to eight months. It is necessary to receive the seasonal flu shot each year to be protected during flu season.


If you have any questions or may be experiencing flu like symptoms, it is always best to contact your provider.


 


Dr. Damian Delhomme, OB/GYN

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