Physician-led, interventional psychiatry experts
TMS for Perinatal and Postpartum Depression in Atlanta, GA
A medication-free treatment option
What is perinatal and postpartum depression?
Perinatal depression, also called peripartum depression, is depression that develops during pregnancy or in the months after giving birth. When it begins after delivery, it’s known as postpartum depression. About 1 in 7 women experience it, which makes it one of the most common complications of pregnancy.
Unlike the “baby blues,” which usually fade within two weeks, perinatal depression lasts longer and can make everyday life feel unmanageable. Symptoms can include anxiety, persistent sadness or numbness, loss of interest in things you once enjoyed, exhaustion beyond what a newborn explains, trouble bonding with your baby, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, and thoughts of self-harm.
Perinatal depression is a serious medical condition that can affect any woman during pregnancy or after childbirth, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, income, culture, or education. It is not caused by anything a woman did or did not do, and treatment is available at any stage. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a highly effective and safe treatment option for depression during and after pregnancy.
How TMS works and why it suits pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Medication-free treatment. TMS uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate the areas of the brain that regulate mood.
- No exposure for your baby. Nothing enters your bloodstream, so nothing reaches your baby during pregnancy or passes into breast milk.
- Keep breastfeeding. There’s no need to pause, pump, or discard milk during treatment.
- No anesthesia or downtime. You stay awake during each session, drive yourself home, and get right back to caring for your baby.
- Proven and well tolerated. TMS has been FDA-approved for major depressive disorder since 2008. The most common side effects are mild scalp discomfort and headache, which are temporary.
What the research says
A 2021 systematic review and meta-analysis found that TMS significantly reduced symptoms of peripartum depression, with no severe side effects reported in mothers or babies. In a randomized controlled trial of women in their second and third trimesters, TMS outperformed a sham treatment. In a multi-center study of women with postpartum depression, 14 of 19 participants reached remission with TMS alone.
Researchers are also studying TMS as a way to keep depression from returning during pregnancy and postpartum. Accelerated TMS protocols designed specifically for perinatal depression are now in clinical trials. Larger studies are underway, but the evidence so far consistently points to TMS as a safe, effective option for new and expecting mothers. Read more about the research on our blog.
What treatment looks like and insurance coverage
Care at Breakthru begins with a comprehensive evaluation lasting 90 minutes to 2 hours, and no referral is needed. Our doctors review your history, your symptoms, and where you are in pregnancy or postpartum recovery. They also coordinate with your OB-GYN or midwife so your whole care team stays on the same page.
Standard TMS is delivered in short, in-office sessions once each weekday for about six weeks, followed by a gradual taper. You sit in a comfortable chair while a small magnetic coil rests against your head, and you’ll feel a light tapping sensation during each session. During pregnancy, our team adjusts your positioning as needed to keep you comfortable and safe. Many patients begin noticing improvement around the fourth week.
Standard TMS is often covered by insurance for major depressive disorder, including depression that begins during pregnancy or after birth. Coverage requirements vary by plan, so our team will verify your benefits and walk you through any out-of-pocket costs before you begin.
Frequently asked questions
Is TMS safe during pregnancy?
Research to date shows TMS is well tolerated during pregnancy, and no adverse pregnancy or birth outcomes have been linked to treatment. Because TMS doesn’t involve medication, your baby has no drug exposure. Our doctors review your full history and coordinate with your OB-GYN before and during treatment.
Can I breastfeed while receiving TMS?
Yes. TMS doesn’t involve medication, so nothing passes into breast milk. You can keep breastfeeding on your normal schedule throughout treatment.
My baby is older now. Is it too late to get help?
No. Depression that began during pregnancy or after birth can last for months or even years if it isn’t treated. It’s never too late to be evaluated, and TMS can help no matter how old your baby is.
What about partnering with OB-GYNs?
We are an Emory Healthcare Network affiliate, and we partner with Emory’s women’s mental health network and Emory’s PEACE for Moms Program.
Why choose Breakthru?
Schedule your consultation today to learn more about TMS For Perinatal Depression.
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