
Pregnancy and Childbirth Psychologist
Pregnancy and Birth Psychologist
Birth Psychologist is recognized worldwide as a necessary support during prenatal (before birth) and perinatal (at birth) psychological phases. The field of pregnancy and birth psychology is widely chosen around the world, though it is not well known in our country.
Birth psychotherapy is a field that evaluates the psychology of the expectant mother, especially due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, and also the fetus's psychology. Pregnancy can be a challenging process for the mother-to-be. Receiving psychological support during this time makes birth and postpartum easier.
Areas Supported by the Pregnancy and Birth Psychologist
- Psychological preparation for pregnancy before conception
- Psychological preparation during the different stages of pregnancy
- Healing fears and anxieties related to pregnancy and birth
- Fear of childbirth
- Indecision regarding birth preferences
- Family problems during pregnancy
- Anxiety related to motherhood and fatherhood roles
- One-on-one support during birth
- Fear, anxiety, and emotional states related to birth experienced by the mother-to-be
- Effects of the mother's own family birth and pregnancy experiences and perceptions on her current pregnancy
- Grief work in cases of previous miscarriage or infant loss
The preparation process for birth lays a foundation that also affects the postpartum period. In addition to physical preparation, mental preparation for birth must be completed.
It is important for expectant mothers and fathers to receive psychological support to approach birth consciously. This way, they can prepare for birth and the postpartum period in a healthier way.
Responsibilities of the Pregnancy Psychologist
- Analyze the motivation of the woman and man to become parents before conception. Provide necessary psychological support to prepare for parenthood roles.
- Examine psychological processes during various stages of pregnancy and discuss emotional changes with the expectant mother.
- Support the mother-to-be in creating her own positive birth story and identify areas that need work. If there is a birth trauma, work on it before birth.
- Analyze the relationship between the pregnant woman and her partner. Provide support for relationship quality if needed.
- Use suggestion, hypnosis, and relaxation techniques to help the mother-to-be relax and complete birth preparation if necessary.
- Evaluate the needs and requests of both mother and father during birth.
- Meet with the father-to-be and discuss how he can support the process, regardless of whether he chooses to be present at the birth.
- Analyze the mother-to-be’s relationship and communication with her mother or closest female relatives (sisters, sisters-in-law), especially how these women influence her and the birth process.
- Inform the mother and family about the birth moment and privacy. Explain when and how family members will be called to the hospital if deemed necessary.
- Explain the roles and teamwork of the birth team, including midwives, doctors, and psychologists.
- Throughout pregnancy, the psychologist keeps all information useful for the mother, doctor, and midwife, to be reviewed later if needed.
The psychologist also balances the relationship between the mother-to-be and her doctor and midwife during the pregnancy.
Clinic and Contact Information
Op. Dr. Serpil Kırım also provides services in the Florya region.
Address: Tahtakale Neighborhood, Fırat 1 Street No: 4/1 Inner Door No: 64, Bahçeşehir, Istanbul
Phone: +90 530 567 59 56