Postpartum psychosis

Postpartum psychosis (pronunciation: post-par-tum psy-cho-sis) is a severe mental illness which can affect a woman after she has a baby. It is also known as puerperal psychosis.

Etymology

The term "postpartum" is derived from the Latin words "post" meaning "after" and "partum" meaning "birth". "Psychosis" is derived from the Greek word "psyche" meaning "mind" and "-osis" meaning "abnormal condition or disorder".

Definition

Postpartum psychosis is a rare psychiatric emergency in which symptoms of high mood and racing thoughts (mania), depression, severe confusion, loss of inhibition, paranoia, hallucinations and delusions set in, beginning suddenly in the first two weeks after childbirth. The symptoms vary and can change quickly.

Symptoms

The most significant symptoms of this condition are hallucinations and delusions. Often, the delusions involve the woman believing that her child is in some way special or has a significant destiny. Other symptoms can include a high mood (mania), confusion, a low mood (depression), restlessness and disturbances in sleep patterns.

Causes

The exact cause of postpartum psychosis is unknown, but it's likely to be a combination of biological, psychological and environmental factors. Hormonal changes in the body after childbirth may play a part, as well as sleep deprivation and the psychological impact of adjusting to life with a newborn.

Treatment

Treatment for postpartum psychosis involves medication, therapy and, in some cases, hospitalization. Antipsychotic medications are commonly used, as well as mood stabilizers and sometimes antidepressants. Psychotherapy can also be beneficial.

Related Terms

• Postpartum depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Schizophrenia
• Mania
• Depression
• Psychotherapy

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Postpartum psychosis
• Wikipedia's article - Postpartum psychosis

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