My Message to Women: You do not have to suffer in silence
Elyse Stein Batoff, Psychologist, LMFT has years of experience working in the area of Women’s Psychological Health Services. She has offered the emotional support that has been needed by many women as they go through physical changes and issues ranging from infertility, pregnancy, postpartum depression, sexual concerns, and menopause. Collaboration with physicians such as OB/GYN’s and infertility specialists has been an important part of the treatment plan as she works to improve the mental health of her clients through their life span.
Pregnancy is both a wonderful and exciting experience but it can bring its stresses and worries. It’s a time in life when women are trying to evaluate and understand the changes that they will be facing for themselves and in their relationships. Due to the overwhelming physical and emotional changes that occur, it can be a very vulnerable period in a woman’s life.
Infertility affects 10 to 15 percent of couples. Infertility means not being able to get pregnant after one year of trying (or 6 months if 35 or older). If one decides to pursue infertility treatment, the consistent use of medications, constant doctor appointments, sex on demand, and often many disappointments is emotionally and often financially draining. If treatment is not an option or does not result in a viable pregnancy, the loss that a woman feels can be devastating.
Postpartum Depression is one of the most common complications of childbirth. The occurrence of postpartum depression ranges from 6.5% to 12.9%. The strongest risk factors are a history of mood and anxiety problems and untreated depression and anxiety during pregnancy.
As women evolve and face the various life stages from adolescence through the aging process, the uniqueness of physical and, hence, psychological changes can be emotionally challenging at times. It’s so important that women allow themselves to get the help that they may need to restore their own well-being, as well as to maintain healthy relationships between themselves and the significant people in their lives. Relationship counseling can be very helpful to maintain the health of the primary relationship.
Interested in requesting an appointment? Contact Elyse Batoff at (215) 382-6680 ext. 7003
Learn more about Women’s Psychological Health Services.