Psychological consultations

What are the psychology counseling services for pregnant women and in the postpartum period, in maternity hospitals in Brazil?

What are the psychological needs of a pregnant woman?

Key psychological needs of a pregnant woman

1. A feeling of safety and security Pregnant women need the reassurance of being surrounded by caring professionals who are ready to support them in any situation. In our maternity hospitals in Florianópolis, we create an atmosphere where every woman feels safe and secure, surrounded by professionals and modern medical technology.
2. Emotional support Pregnancy can come with stress, worries about the future and changes in relationships. Psychological support helps you cope with these challenges. Our perinatal psychologists are here for you to express your emotions and get answers to important questions.
3. Preparing for motherhood involves overcoming fears of childbirth and developing skills to care for your baby. We offer childbirth preparation courses to help you feel confident and ready for this new stage of life.
4. Understanding and respecting individual needs Every woman is unique, and so are her experiences. It is important that her wishes, traditions and preferences are taken into account. At our centers, we take into account cultural and personal differences to make each mother feel special.
5. Supporting your relationship with your partner Emotional connection with your partner builds confidence and reduces stress. We support couples births and provide opportunities to prepare together so that you can walk this journey together.

Why should you choose our maternity hospital in Florianópolis?

• Personalized approach. Psychologists, Doulas and specialists are ready to work with your personal needs.
• Comfortable atmosphere. Thoughtful space and sensitive staff create a feeling of coziness and tranquility.
• Cultural Sensitivity. We respect your choices and traditions while making the process as comfortable as possible.
• State-of-the-art support programs. From yoga and meditation, from fitness to individual sessions with psychologists.

Allow yourself to experience this unique moment in life with a sense of confidence and happiness. We are here to take care of you and your future baby.

What is the role of a psychologist during pregnancy?

The role of the psychologist during pregnancy

Pregnancy is not only a physical but also an emotional process, accompanied by changes that require attention and care for the psychological state of the woman. At Florianópolis Maternity Hospital, we understand the importance of professional support and offer the services of a perinatal psychologist to make every expectant mother feel confident and calm.

The main tasks of a psychologist during pregnancy

1. Reducing Stress and Anxiety Worries about your baby's health, upcoming labor, or motherhood in general can cause emotional stress. "Our psychologists help identify sources of stress and offer techniques for relaxation and emotional balance, including breathing practices and meditation."
2. Preparing for childbirth Psychological preparation for childbirth is just as important as physical preparation. This includes:
   • Overcoming fear of pain or medical procedures.
   • Building a positive attitude towards the birthing process. "We provide individual and group sessions that give women confidence in their abilities and help them see labor as a natural process."
3. Emotional support during times of change Hormonal and physical changes can cause mood swings, feelings of vulnerability or loneliness. "A psychologist becomes a trusted companion who will listen, support and help you cope with any difficulties."
4. Strengthening family bonds Pregnancy affects relationships with your partner and family. A psychologist helps:
   • Strengthen the emotional connection with your partner.
   • Preparing the family for change. "Couples counseling together allows you to better understand each other's feelings and prepare together for your new role as parents."
5. Pregnant women, especially for the first time, may feel depressed or confused. Timely work with a psychologist prevents the development of serious emotional problems.
6. Why is this important for foreign moms?

For foreign women who decide to give birth in Brazil, a psychologist becomes not only a support but also a link to a new culture.

We take into account:

• Features of adaptation to life in another country.
• Linguistic and cultural barriers.
• The feeling of loneliness that can arise when you are away from your family. Our psychologists are multilingual and ready to provide a comfortable environment for women from all over the world.

Benefits of our maternity services in Florianópolis

• Personalized: you'll get support tailored to your unique needs.
• Interdisciplinary team: psychologists work in tandem with doctors, doulas and midwives.
• Modern techniques: we use evidence-based approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques.

Let us take care of you! At Florianópolis Maternity Center you will find not only professional medical care, but also peace of mind. We are here to make your pregnancy and labor harmonious and happy.

What mental disorder can occur in the postpartum period?

Motherhood is a wonderful journey filled with tenderness, joy and new discoveries. But for many women, this journey can be marred by difficulties that are not always visible to others. One of the most common mental health disorders in the postpartum period is postpartum depression (PPD). This condition requires special attention and professional help.

During the postpartum period, women can develop a variety of mental health disorders that require attention and help. The most common of these are:

1.Postpartum depression (PPD)

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious mental disorder that occurs in women after childbirth. It affects up to 15-20% of women and requires attention as it can affect not only the mother, but also the child and the whole family.

Symptoms of postpartum depression

Symptoms can range from mild sadness to serious changes in mood and behavior. They usually appear 1 to 3 weeks after the birth, but can occur later.

Key attributes:

• A constant feeling of sadness, desolation or despair.
• Loss of interest in daily activities, including child care.
• Severe fatigue, apathy, inability to concentrate.
• Difficulty sleeping (even if the child sleeps).
• Guilt, low self-esteem, feeling like a "bad mom".
• Anxiety about the child's health or your own health.
• In extreme cases, thoughts of harming yourself or a child.

Causes and risk factors

Postpartum depression is not caused by one specific cause, but there are a number of factors that increase the risk of it occurring:

1. Hormonal changes. A sharp decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels after childbirth.
2. Physical exhaustion. Fatigue from childbirth and caring for the newborn.
3. Psychosocial factors. These are primarily: Lack of support from a partner or family, Conflicts in the relationship, Financial or domestic difficulties.
4. Psychological predispositions. These may include: History of depression or anxiety disorders, Traumatic experiences (including birth complications), Personality traits such as perfectionism.

Differences from the baby blues.

"Baby blues" (or postpartum moping) is a temporary condition experienced by up to 70% of women. It is associated with hormonal changes and passes 1-2 weeks after childbirth. The main difference between postpartum depression is its duration and severity of symptoms.

Impact on mother and child

Without treatment, PRD can affect:

• The physical health of the mother. Fatigue, weakened immunity.
• Emotional bonding with the child. Difficulties in establishing attachment.
• Child Development. Children may experience difficulties with behavior, speech, and cognitive development.
• Family relationships. Tension with your partner or other family members.

Treatment for postpartum depression

PRD is successfully treatable, especially when early treatment is sought.

1. Psychotherapy:
   • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps to change negative thoughts and attitudes.
   • Interpersonal therapy (IPT) improves relationships and communication skills.
2. Medication treatment. Antidepressants (e.g. selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). They are prescribed by a doctor, especially in severe cases.
3. Group support. socializing with other women going through similar difficulties.
4. Lifestyle:
   • Physical activity (e.g., walking).
   • Balanced nutrition.
   • Adequate rest and help from those around you.

How does a Florianopolis maternity center help you get rid of postpartum depression?

• Early diagnosis. Specialists assess the emotional state of women immediately after childbirth.
• Individualized approach. Our psychologists and psychotherapists develop support programs for each woman.
• Support Groups. In our centers, women find support and understanding among other moms.
• Distance counseling. If you prefer to get help from home.

Your mental health is important not only for you, but also for your baby and the family and friends around you. At Florianópolis Maternity Centers, we will do everything we can to make you feel confident and relaxed about this new stage of your life.

If you or a loved one notices symptoms of PPD, don't delay in getting help. Early support makes the road to recovery easier and faster.

2. Postpartum psychosis

Postpartum psychosis is a rare but severe psychiatric disorder that develops in 0.1-0.2% of women within the first two weeks after childbirth. This condition requires immediate medical intervention.

Symptoms:

• Hallucinations (auditory, visual, or tactile).
• Delusions, often related to the child.
• Significant mood changes (euphoria or major depression).
• Confusion of consciousness, disorientation.
• Sleep disturbances that are not explained by fatigue.

Reasons:

• Genetic predisposition (history of bipolar disorder or psychosis).
• Hormonal fluctuations after childbirth.
• Stress and physical exhaustion.

Treatment:

• Hospitalization in a specialized institution.
• The use of antipsychotics, mood stabilizers and, in severe cases, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
• Psychotherapy in the recovery period.

3. anxiety disorders

After childbirth, many women experience increased anxiety. If this anxiety becomes uncontrollable and interferes with daily life, it may be postpartum anxiety disorder.

Symptoms:

• Constant thoughts of something bad happening to the child.
• Panic attacks (palpitations, sweating, shortness of breath).
• Compulsive control-seeking (e.g., frequent checks of the baby's breathing).
• Sleep disturbances caused by anxiety rather than childcare.

Reasons:

• Hormonal changes.
• History of anxiety disorders.
• Lack of support or stressful life circumstances.

Treatment:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
• Medications (antidepressants or anxiolytics).
• Relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation.

4. obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Postpartum OCD occurs in about 3-5% of women and is characterized by intrusive thoughts and actions.

Symptoms:

• Intrusive thoughts of harming the child (unwanted and frightening).
• Repetitive activities to reduce anxiety (e.g., constant hand washing, checking locks).
• Feeling guilty or ashamed of thoughts.

Reasons:

• Hormonal changes.
• History of anxiety disorders or OCD.
• Perfectionism and a high level of responsibility.

Treatment:

• CPT for changing patterns of thinking and behavior.
• Use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
• Partner and family support.

5. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

PTSD can occur after a difficult or traumatic birth (such as an emergency cesarean section, severe pain, or fear for the baby's life).

Symptoms:

• Flashbacks and re-memories of traumatic moments.
• Avoiding talking about childbirth or hospitals.
• Feelings of alienation and emotional numbness.
• Increased excitability (difficulty falling asleep, irritability).

Reasons:

• Physical trauma or complications during childbirth.
• Lack of emotional support from health care staff or partner.
• Personal history of trauma or abuse.

Treatment:

• Trauma-focused therapy (e.g., CPT or EMDR - Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Trauma-focused therapy is a form of psychotherapy specifically designed to work with people who have experienced traumatic events. It focuses on understanding, processing and integrating traumatic experiences to minimize their impact on daily life and improve overall emotional well-being.
• Support from family and professionals.
• Medication treatment if necessary.

Who is trauma-focused therapy appropriate for?

Trauma-focused therapy is used to work with:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Emotional trauma associated with loss, violence, or major life upheaval.
• Chronic anxiety or depression related to trauma.
• People who have experienced traumatic childbirth, which is relevant to postpartum PTSD.

The role of trauma-focused therapy in the postpartum period

For women who have experienced traumatic births, trauma-focused therapy helps:

• Process negative memories of childbirth.
• Restore emotional balance.
• Increase confidence in myself as a mother.

Trauma-focused therapy at Florianópolis Maternity Hospital is professional help to help you cope with your experiences and get back to living your life to the fullest. Our psychologists create a trusting atmosphere and use effective techniques to help you feel confident and calm.

All of the above disorders and conditions require professional help, from psychotherapy to medication. Timely diagnosis and support, including family and professional support, can help you cope with the disorder and return to a full life.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms, it is important to seek counseling from a doctor or psychologist.

Why is a psychologist especially important for foreign moms?

For foreign women who decide to give birth in Brazil, a psychologist becomes not only a support but also a link to a new culture. We take into account:

• Features of adaptation to life in another country.
• Linguistic and cultural barriers.
• The feeling of loneliness that can arise when away from family. "Our psychologists speak several languages and are ready to create a comfortable environment for women from all over the world."

Benefits of our maternity hospital in Florianópolis

• Personalized approach. You will receive support customized to your unique needs.
• Interdisciplinary team. Psychologists work in tandem with doctors, doulas and midwives.
• State-of-the-art techniques. We use evidence-based approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques.

Why do many foreign women choose us?

• A team of professionals. Experienced perinatal psychologists and therapists.
• Flexible approach. Regular face-to-face or online consultations.
• A cozy atmosphere. Our maternity hospitals are a space where you can regain your inner balance.
• Support for the whole family. Our experts work with more than just moms, dads and even older children to create harmony in the home.

Remember: your mental health is the foundation for a happy motherhood. Our maternity hospitals in Florianópolis are a place where you can feel safe, surrounded by care and professional support.

Open a new chapter of motherhood with confidence and peace of mind - we're here to help you along the way.

What are the three psychological challenges of pregnancy?

1. Accepting the changes in the body and psyche. Pregnancy comes with physical and emotional changes, and it is important to learn to accept them as part of the natural process.
2. Formation of attachment to the child. The pregnant woman begins to recognize her future child as a separate person, building an emotional bond and fantasizing about a life together.
3. Preparation for motherhood. Psychological readiness for new roles and responsibilities, as well as redefining one's identity as a mother.

These tasks help a woman adapt to the changes associated with pregnancy and future motherhood.

What are the stages of the psychology of pregnancy?

The psychology of pregnancy includes several stages that reflect changes in a woman's perception of herself, the baby, and her role as a mother.

First trimester. Realization of pregnancy

• The key is to accept the fact of pregnancy itself.
• Emotions: joy, anxiety, shock or doubt.
• Focus shifts from self to awareness of self as an expectant mother.

Second trimester. Forming a bond with the child

• The key task is to develop emotional attachment to the child.
• Emotions: more confidence, less anxiety.
• Focus on seeing the baby as a real person, especially with the onset of palpable fetal movements.

Third trimester. Preparing for childbirth and motherhood

• The key is to finalize your preparation for childbirth and accepting your new role.
• Emotions: a mixture of impatience, fear and anticipation.
• The focus is on physical and psychological readiness for the arrival of a child, rethinking family roles.

Each stage is associated with internal change and the need for support from partner, family and professionals.

What mind-body techniques are used during pregnancy and postpartum?

Mind-body techniques are used during pregnancy and postpartum to help women cope with physical and emotional changes, improve bonding with their baby, and restore balance. Here are the main techniques:

Bodywork techniques

1. Yoga for pregnant women:
   • Strengthens muscles, improves flexibility and posture.
   • It helps to relieve tension and prepare the body for labor.
   • Teaches breathing techniques to alleviate labor pain.
2. Breathing exercises:
   • Calms the nervous system, reduces anxiety.
   • Improve blood circulation and oxygen supply to the fetus.
3. Pregnancy Massage:
   • Relieves tension in the back, legs and lower back.
   • Reduces swelling, improves blood flow.
4. Postnatal exercise:
   • Strengthen the pelvic floor and abdominal muscles.
   • Improve overall health after childbirth.

Techniques for working with consciousness

1. Meditation:
   • Calms the mind, helps to deal with emotional fluctuations.
   • Improves focus on the present moment, reduces stress.
2. Visualization:
   • The woman is encouraged to imagine a successful labor, a comfortable environment, and a healthy baby.
   • Helps reduce fear of childbirth.
3. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
   • Changes negative thoughts and beliefs related to pregnancy and childbirth.
   • Reduces anxiety and depressive moods.
4. Mindfulness Practices (Mindfulness):
   • Help you keep your inner calm.
   • Focusing on sensations, breath and emotions without judgment.

Additional techniques

1. Music Therapy:
   • Relaxing music helps improve your mood and creates positive associations with pregnancy.
   • Used to create a bond between mother and child.
2. Art therapy:
   • A woman expresses her feelings through creativity (drawing, modeling).
   • Helps to conceptualize and process emotional experiences.
3. Aqua aerobics:
   • Reduces pressure on joints, relieves swelling.
   • Provides gentle, safe physical activity.

The benefits of these techniques

• Reducing stress levels and improving overall well-being.
• Preparing the body and mind for childbirth.
• Strengthening the bond with the child.
• Quick recovery from childbirth.

In maternity hospitals in Florianópolis you will find a wide range of programs using these techniques to support your body and mind at every stage of motherhood.

In maternity hospitals in Florianópolis, psychology counseling for pregnant women and in the postpartum period, includes a number of aspects aimed at ensuring mental health and emotional well-being.

It is impossible to describe all the variety of psychological help, and moreover to remove all your possible questions, so we offer you to contact us for more in-depth answers to your questions absolutely free of charge, and it does not oblige you to anything.

Therefore, immediately, without hesitation, you can contact us in the feedback form (link to the form, or the form below) or on WhatsApp (contact number) and our consultant will answer any question you may have.

Again, all of our consultations are free of charge and do not oblige you to anything. Once you have all the answers to your questions, you can continue to explore and search for the most suitable option for you.