Postpartum psychosis
It is not uncommon for women to experience "baby blues" after
giving birth. You may feel depressed, sad, anxious, overwhelmed, or
overwhelmed. Half or more of younger mothers can go through this.
But in very rare cases, a very serious mental disorder called postpartum
psychosis can develop in a newborn. Postpartum means after childbirth.
Psychosis means that you have lost touch with reality.
Symptoms
Some women with postpartum psychosis have previously been diagnosed with
bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental illnesses. But most have no
previous mental problems.
Postpartum psychosis can occur several weeks after childbirth. It
usually happens suddenly. Different mothers may have different symptoms. But
they may include:
- Delusions
- Hallucinations
- Agitation
- Heightened energy or sex drive
- Depression, anxiety, or confusion
- Severe insomnia
- Paranoia and suspicious feelings
- Constant mood swings
- Feeling disconnected from your baby
It can be hard to tell if your symptoms are part of the normal
postpartum recovery process or if it's something more serious. That's why it's
important to have a loved one or friend keep an eye on you for the first few
days and weeks.
Risks and causes
Your risk of postpartum psychosis is higher if you or a close family
member has bipolar disorder or if you have had episodes of psychosis in the
past.
Doctors believe that severe hormonal changes before and after childbirth
can contribute to postpartum psychosis. Your risks are increased if:
- This is your first baby.
- Your pregnancy was unplanned.
- You have big mood swings while pregnant.
- You stopped your psychiatric medications during your pregnancy.
What to do with it
Postpartum psychosis is a very serious condition. About one in 20 women
may try to harm themselves or their child. Your risk of suicide may increase
dramatically within a year or more after giving birth.
Fortunately, the psychotic state is temporary. It is important to know
what to do if this happens both before and after childbirth.
Before delivery:
- Talk to your doctor about your risks. They might send you to a specialist called a perinatal psychiatrist.
- Tell your doctor and other members of your care team about any family history of bipolar disorder or postpartum psychosis.
- Educate your partner or other loved ones about the symptoms, because you may not be able to recognize them in yourself.
- Keep track of your moods during pregnancy.
- Connect with an online support community for postpartum psychosis.
- Arrange care for any children you might already have.
After delivery:
- Ask your partner or another loved one to help you keep a close eye on your behavior.
- Get enough sleep.
- Don’t feel guilty or pressured if it’s hard for you to breastfeed.
- Minimize visitors, especially for the first few days.
- See your doctor regularly for checkups.
- Keep a mood diary.
- Lean on friends and family for help around the house.
Treatment and recovery
If you or someone close to you suspects that you have delusions,
paranoia, or other signs of postpartum psychosis, call emergency medical
services right away. For safety reasons, you may need to be hospitalized. You
may also need medications such as lithium to help stabilize your mood.
With proper care, you can fully recover. It will take time, but gradually you will feel like yourself again and be able to give a lot of love and support to your new baby.
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