Avenues Recovery, an addiction rehab in Louisiana, is pleased to share that Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge has officially opened the state’s first inpatient mental health unit dedicated solely to pregnant, postpartum, and post-pregnant women. The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held on August 30, 2024, marked the launch of the Perinatal Mental Health Unit (PMHU), a groundbreaking facility designed to address the unique mental health needs of women during and after pregnancy.
The ceremony was attended by Woman’s President and CEO Rene Ragas, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, Surgeon General Dr. Ralph Abraham, and other key figures, including state lawmakers and community leaders. The new unit represents an $8 million investment and is set to create nearly 40 new jobs, underscoring the hospital’s commitment to improving maternal mental health outcomes.
The AN17 Local News reported that Women's President/CEO Rene Ragas highlighted the critical need for such a facility, noting a significant number of women admitted to the hospital had been struggling with mental health challenges. “This unit will serve as a beacon of hope for healing, support, and empowerment,” Ragas said. The PMHU aims to address the gap in care for women experiencing mental health issues related to pregnancy, childbirth, and pregnancy loss.
The PMHU will provide specialized care for women ages 18 and older who are pregnant, up to one year postpartum, or have suffered a pregnancy loss within the last year. The unit is equipped with 9,130 square feet of indoor space, including a secure 1,670-square-foot outdoor terrace. Each patient will have a private 350-square-foot room, complete with modern amenities designed to enhance comfort and support the healing process.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), maternal mental health conditions such as anxiety, perinatal and postpartum depression, and birth-related PTSD are common and often untreated. The PMHU will offer individual and group therapies, including art , music, and yoga, and will be staffed by a comprehensive care team including psychiatrists, nurses, psychologists, social workers, and lactation consultants.
Governor Jeff Landry praised the initiative, stating, “Through this brand new Perinatal Mental Health Unit, Louisiana is leading the way for improving maternal mental health across our country.” Similarly, Louisiana Surgeon General Ralph Abraham emphasized the importance of addressing maternal mental health, noting that the new unit sets a crucial example for the state’s healthcare sector.
The facility’s design and services are tailored to support both physical and mental health needs. Patients will have access to individualized care, with the ability to spend time with their babies when appropriate—a key aspect of the healing process. Dr. Kelly Cannon, director of inpatient psychiatry, noted that the integration of the PMHU within a hospital already focused on women’s and babies’ health is a significant advantage.
The PMHU is expected to accommodate up to 10 patients at a time, ensuring personalized care and attention. By filling a critical gap in maternal mental health services, this new unit is poised to make a substantial impact on the well-being of women and their families in Louisiana.
As the first of its kind in the state, the Perinatal Mental Health Unit at Woman’s Hospital represents a significant step forward in addressing the mental health needs of pregnant and postpartum women, providing them with the specialized care and support they deserve.
If you or your loved one are struggling with your mental health or an addiction, reach out to Avenues Recovery. Our experienced and professional staff have helped thousands of people turn their lives around, and they can help you too. Begin your journey to sobriety today!