Perinatal psychiatry:: Infant mental health interventions during pregnancy

The authors focus on infant mental health interventions during pregnancy in response to stressors, behaviors, and difficulties experienced by the mother-to-be (as well as by the father-to-be and surrounding family or support system) that are likely to have a negative impact on the growth, development, behavior, and psychological environment of the baby. After summarizing normal tensions and psychological tasks, the authors focus on difficulties during pregnancy: "pathology of destiny, " excessive anxiety domestic violence, fear of becoming a mother, denial of pregnancy, somatic complaints, inadequate weight gain and eating disorders, and depression. The effects of these difficulties on the baby, as well as intervention techniques (including a psychosocial support group), are highlighted.