Pregnancy and the postpartum period bring big changes—physically, emotionally, and socially. For some women, these changes can lead to intense worry, racing thoughts, or constant fear. This is called perinatal or postpartum anxiety, and it’s more common than you might think.
While it’s natural to feel some worry as you prepare for a new baby, perinatal or postpartum anxiety goes beyond typical concerns. It may include constant worry, racing thoughts, restlessness, or physical symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, upset stomach, or trouble sleeping.
These symptoms can feel overwhelming and may interfere with daily life or your ability to enjoy time with your baby. Unlike the short-lived “baby blues,” anxiety during pregnancy or postpartum often lingers and requires support.
The good news is that effective treatment is available. With therapy, coping strategies, and—when appropriate—medication, many parents find relief and regain a sense of calm. At Brave Health, our licensed clinicians understand the unique challenges of pregnancy and early parenthood and provide accessible, online care covered by Medicaid and most insurance.
The symptoms of anxiety during and after pregnancy include:
Certain factors can increase your risk for developing perinatal anxiety.
History of anxiety: Either your own history or someone in your family.
Complications during pregnancy or birth: This could include emergency medical care during birth, a NICU stay, a prior pregnancy loss, or a difficult pregnancy.
Lack of support: If you don't have a big support system, or your family and friends don’t support your decision to have a baby, you may have a higher chance of developing perinatal anxiety.
Our coordinated care includes therapy and psychiatry to help you manage mental health symptoms, navigate life challenges, and build resilience.
Brave Health believes that everyone should have access to high-quality mental health care.
Our providers are in-network with a wide variety of insurance plans, including Medicaid, Medicare, and Commercial insurance. Many Medicaid plans waive a co-payment for services. Contact your insurance plan to find out the total cost of care.
We also accept private patients who do not have insurance. See our fee schedule.
Brave Health’s team of clinicians includes licensed physicians, nurse practitioners, therapists, and counselors. Each of our team members has received specialized training in mental health care.
At Brave Health, therapists typically meet with patients for 50-minute video sessions on our secure telehealth platform. The frequency of sessions can vary based on the individual's needs and goals.
You will need a computer, smartphone, or tablet with a camera and microphone, as well as a reliable internet connection.
You will receive a text reminder 24 hours before your appointment, and another text and email reminder 15 minutes prior to the appointment with a link to the telehealth session. At that time, prepare to move to a private space and click the link to join a private waiting room where the clinician will arrive.
During the first 60-minute video appointment, the mental health clinician will ask questions, evaluate needs, and present treatment options.
