Women can experience mental health difficulties during pregnancy, after childbirth, around menstrual-cycle changes, infertility, menopause or periods of intense family and workplace pressure. Dr. Saira Farhan provides women’s mental health care in Karachi, Pakistan, with online appointments when suitable.
Women’s mental health support through different life stages
Women may seek support for:
- Depression, anxiety, panic attacks, OCD or persistent sleep problems
- Mental health difficulties during pregnancy, including anxiety and depression
- Postnatal or postpartum depression, anxiety and distressing intrusive thoughts
- Severe premenstrual mood changes or possible PMDD
- Emotional strain associated with infertility, pregnancy loss or birth experiences
- Mood, anxiety, sleep or concentration changes during perimenopause and menopause
- Workplace stress, caregiving pressure, family conflict or relationship difficulties
Symptoms are not always caused by hormones. Assessment considers emotional, physical, hormonal, medical and social factors rather than assuming the cause.
When should you seek professional help?
Consider an appointment when low mood, anxiety, irritability or exhaustion persists or affects daily functioning. Other signs include loss of interest, panic, repeated checking, severe monthly mood changes, hopelessness or feeling unable to cope.
Hallucinations, unusual beliefs, severe confusion, extreme agitation, thoughts of suicide or an intention to harm yourself or a baby require urgent local medical assessment. Postpartum psychosis is a medical emergency. WhatsApp and routine appointments are not crisis services.
Women’s mental health during pregnancy and after birth
Perinatal mental health covers pregnancy and the period after childbirth. Depression, anxiety, OCD and existing conditions can begin or change during this time. Loving your baby does not rule out postnatal depression.
Treatment may include psychotherapy, support, medication or a combination. Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions must consider symptoms, benefits, possible risks and untreated illness. Do not change psychiatric medication without discussing it with your psychiatrist and maternity or medical clinician.
PMDD, menopause and physical health
PMDD is more severe than ordinary premenstrual discomfort and follows a recurring relationship with the cycle. Symptom tracking can help assessment. Menopause may also coincide with mood, anxiety, sleep or concentration changes, but other conditions still need evaluation.
Low mood or fatigue may overlap with thyroid problems, anaemia or vitamin deficiencies. Tests may be considered when indicated. Supplements do not replace mental health treatment and require extra caution during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Assessment, treatment and privacy
Dr. Saira Farhan is an FCPS-qualified psychiatrist and trained psychotherapist. The first appointment may cover mood, sleep, reproductive history, health, medication, relationships, work and support at home. Treatment may include psychotherapy, medication, monitoring or coordination with another clinician.
Some women prefer discussing menstruation, fertility, pregnancy or family experiences with a female psychiatrist. You may attend alone or with someone you trust. Information is handled confidentially, subject to safety, safeguarding and legal responsibilities.
Where the difficulty sits mainly within a relationship or marriage, Couples & Marital Counselling may fit better. Psychotherapy covers individual talking therapy in more detail.
Appointments in Karachi, across Pakistan and abroad
Appointments are available in Karachi and online across Pakistan when suitable. Dr. Saira Farhan’s experience in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia helps her understand family expectations, stigma and migration concerns.
Pakistani and South Asian women in the UK, United States, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands or the Gulf may enquire in Urdu or English. Availability depends on location, clinical needs and professional rules. Local care may be recommended.
Fees and booking
Appointments cost Rs. 6,000 and usually last 25 to 30 minutes. To book in Karachi or enquire online, message WhatsApp at +92 321 5588832. A short appointment request is enough.