Frequently Asked Questions

Perinatal refers to the period surrounding childbirth, encompassing the time from conception to approximately one year after birth. It includes:

• Antenatal period: Pregnancy

• Intrapartum period: Labor and delivery

• Postnatal period: The first year after birth

Perinatal health focuses on the well-being of both the mother and baby during this critical time, addressing physical, mental, and developmental aspects.It encompasses healthcare, support, and interventions to ensure a healthy and positive transition into parenthood.

Perinatal mental health refers specifically to the emotional and psychological well-being of women during the perinatal period, which includes the time during pregnancy and up to one year postpartum. This period is critical as it encompasses significant physical, emotional, and hormonal changes that can profoundly impact a woman's mental health.

While general mental health pertains to emotional, psychological, and social well-being at any stage of life, perinatal mental health focuses on unique stressors and conditions, such as perinatal depression, anxiety, and psychosis, that can occur during and after pregnancy.

At COPMHP, we provide specialized support and resources to address the distinct needs of women during this pivotal time.

Perinatal mood disorders encompass a range of emotional and psychological issues that can occur during pregnancy or within the first year after childbirth. These disorders can include postpartum depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and, in severe cases, postpartum psychosis.

CO PMHP specializes in providing comprehensive support for individuals experiencing perinatal mood disorders. Our services include individual counseling, support groups, and access to a network of healthcare professionals specializing in maternal mental health.

The term "birthing person" or "birther" is an inclusive, gender-neutral term for anyone who gives birth. It is terminology used to acknowledge that not all people who give birth identify as women or mothers, including transgender men and non-binary individuals. We truly believe that every parent deserves support, care, and to be seen.

At the Colorado Perinatal Mental Health Project, we all belong. It is core to our mission and work that we serve ALL parents and caregivers throughout our state and our language reflects those values.

A few core values and beliefs guide our path in defining equity for our organization: ​

• The work is not done until EVERY person who gives birth in Colorado has a birthing experience that is free of discrimination, prejudicial attitudes and the influence of oppressive systems and forces. Equitable treatment is not “special treatment” – it’s the acknowledgement that despite what might be considered “progress” – birth outcomes are not the same across different groups of women and birthers in Colorado. Read Maternal Mortality in Colorado, 2016-2020 to learn more about these disparities in our community.

• Equity is not a project, fad, or trend. Ensuring that every woman and birthing person in Colorado has a birthing experience that is free of oppression is not a lofty ideal; it’s the core of the work.

• With regards to equity work, meaningful conversations and intention are important; but actions matter more. From our perspective, everyone has a role in this work and whether those actions occur at a personal level, professional level, or systemic level – they matter.

• Engaging in equity work is not about shame and blame; it’s about acknowledgement, power sharing, and change.

"Birth equity" refers to the concept of ensuring that all birthing people, regardless of race, socioeconomic status, or geographic location, have equal access to quality healthcare and support during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum.

Key Principles of Birth Equity:

• Addressing systemic inequalities: Recognizing and addressing the historical and ongoing racial disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes.

• Promoting equitable access to care: Ensuring that all birthing people have access to qualified healthcare providers, doulas, and other support systems.

• Respecting individual choices and preferences: Upholding the right of birthing people to make informed decisions about their care, including their birth place and birth attendants.

• Improving quality of care: Focusing on providing culturally competent, patient-centered care that meets the unique needs of each birthing person.

• Supporting families and communities: Providing resources and support to families and communities to improve their health and well-being during and after pregnancy.