What is Postpartum Psychosis?

Postpartum psychosis is a rare illness, compared to the rates of postpartum depression or anxiety. It occurs in approximately 1 to 2 out of every 1,000 deliveries, or approximately .1% of births. The onset is usually sudden, most often within the first 2 weeks postpartum. If you or someone you know is showing symptoms of postpartum psychosis, please contact your doctor right away. The most significant risk factors for postpartum psychosis are a personal or family history of bipolar disorder, or a previous psychotic episode.

Of the women who develop postpartum psychosis, there is a 5% suicide rate and a 4% infanticide rate associated with the illness. In this psychotic state, women experience a break from reality. The delusions and beliefs make sense, feel meaningful, and are often religious in nature. Immediate treatment is imperative. It is also important to know that many survivors of postpartum psychosis never had delusions containing violent commands. Delusions take many forms, and not all of them are destructive. Most women who experience postpartum psychosis do not harm themselves or anyone else. However, there is always the risk of danger because psychosis includes delusional thinking and irrational judgment, and this is why women with this illness must be treated and carefully monitored by a trained healthcare professional.

Symptoms

Symptoms of postpartum psychosis can include:

  • Delusions or strange beliefs

  • Feeling very irritated

  • Hyperactivity

  • Rapid mood swings

  • Paranoia and suspiciousness

  • Difficulty communicating at times

  • Decreased need for or inability to sleep

  • Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there)

Treatment

Postpartum psychosis may be temporary and treatable with professional help, but it is an emergency and it is essential that women receive immediate help. If you feel you or someone you know may be suffering from this illness, know that it is not your fault and you are not to blame. Call your doctor or an emergency crisis hotline right away so that you can get the help you need.

October 4, 2018

What You Should Know about New Moms and PMADs

The birth of a child represents one of the most significant moments in a woman’s life. It’s a time of profound joy and new expectations as the mom and child begin their lifelong journey together. But for many new and expecting moms, it also can be a time of anxiety, depression or…

October 26, 2015

MHAMD works to address the mental health needs of pregnant women and new moms

Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) are the most common complication of pregnancy and childbirth, affecting 15 – 20% of pregnant women and new moms within the first year. …

Healthy New Moms Resources

Read our Healthy New Moms Resources for information on emergency resources, non-emergency resources, support groups, and health coverage.

October 4, 2018

What You Should Know about New Moms and PMADs

The birth of a child represents one of the most significant moments in a woman’s life. It’s a time of profound joy and new expectations as the mom and child begin their lifelong journey together.

But for many new and expecting moms, it also can be a time of anxiety, depression or something even more serious.

October 26, 2015

MHAMD works to address the mental health needs of pregnant women and new moms

Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders

Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) are the most common complication of pregnancy and childbirth, affecting 15 – 20% of pregnant women and new moms within the first year.

Healthy New Moms Resources

Read our Healthy New Moms Resources for information on emergency resources, non-emergency resources, support groups, and health coverage.

Immediate Help

If you or a loved one needs assistance or is thinking of suicide, please get help immediately.

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