Kimberly Ann Yonkers, MD

Professor of Psychiatry and of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences and Lecturer in Epidemiology (Chronic Diseases); Director, PMS and Perinatal Psychiatric Research Program

Biographical Info

The work of my research group includes investigations into the clinical course, etiopathology and treatment of psychiatric disorders as they occur in women.  A major component of this work includes investigations into the occurrence and treatment of illnesses in pregnancy and the postpartum period, and across the menstrual cycle.  This area, by its nature, cuts across disciplines and requires psychiatric expertise, as well as knowledge in neuroscience and reproductive biology.  

Reciprocally, we assess the effects that psychiatric illnesses and their treatments, have on perinatal outcomes.  In a cohort study funded by NICHD, we recruited approximately 2800 women and interviewed them three times during pregnancy.  We are assessing whether depression is a risk factor for preterm delivery, independent of antidepressant treatment. This large prospective cohort study includes information on maternal psychiatric illness, antidepressant treatment and other obstetrical risk factors.   

An ongoing NIDA study is assessing the comorbidity, course, consequences and treatment of hazardous substance use in pregnancy and the immediate postpartum time.  This study entails following a large cohort of pregnant women who used drugs or alcohol in pregnancy and testing a behavioral treatment for drug and alcohol use.  This rich, longitudinal data set also provides information on the clinical course of substance use disorders in pregnancy and after delivery.

Education & Training

M.D.

Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons(1986)

Residency

McLean Hospital

Board Certification

Psychiatry, Board Certified  (1991)

Honors & Recognition

• Best Doctors in US
  (2009)