The Perinatal Mental Health Unit at Woman’s Hospital is receiving a Community Impact Award from Business Report’s inaugural Excellence in Healthcare Awards for establishing specialized psychiatric care for pregnant and postpartum women. The recognition highlights the facility’s reach across Louisiana since opening its doors in September 2024.
Louisiana’s First Inpatient Psychiatric Unit Dedicated to Mothers
Because maternal mental health concerns were on the rise and suitable inpatient facilities were scarce for expectant or new mothers facing severe psychiatric issues, Woman’s Hospital established the Perinatal Mental Health Unit. The 10-bed facility is Louisiana’s first inpatient psychiatric unit dedicated exclusively to pregnant and postpartum women.
By merging obstetric care with psychiatric treatment, the 10-bed facility enables patients to access specialized care all in one location.
Rapid Regional Growth and Expanded Services
Ever since it first opened its doors, the program has cared for upwards of 400 families, drawing individuals hailing from 102 cities, 39 Louisiana parishes, and a total of seven states.
Did you know? Woman’s has also doubled the number of full-time psychiatrists on the unit since opening.
This accolade arrives as Woman’s expands its comprehensive perinatal mental health strategy, which features an outpatient Behavioral Health Clinic offering ongoing counseling and medication management for mothers.
Shifting the Paradigm in Maternal Mental Healthcare
Merging psychiatric and obstetric care within a custom-tailored environment, the program marks a major transformation in how new and expecting mothers can access treatment for mental health struggles.
The ongoing development of both inpatient and outpatient options ensures that mothers receive continuous support from pregnancy through the postpartum period.
Frequently Asked Questions
What services does the Perinatal Mental Health Unit offer?
By merging obstetric care with psychiatric treatment, the 10-bed facility enables patients to access specialized care all in one location.
Where are the patients coming from?
Ever since it first opened its doors, the program has cared for upwards of 400 families, drawing individuals hailing from 102 cities, 39 Louisiana parishes, and a total of seven states.
Is outpatient care available for mothers after discharge?
Yes. Woman’s also has an outpatient Behavioral Health Clinic that provides continued care for mothers through medication management and counseling.
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