Postpartum Psychosis
Postpartum Psychosis Causes
There's no known ?single? cause for postpartum psychosis. Physical changes, emotional factors and lifestyle influences play a huge role in this condition.
Postpartum Psychosis Definition
Postpartum psychosis is an extremely rare condition, which develops and occurs within the first 5 to 6 weeks after delivery. Compared to postpartum depression, signs and symptoms of postpartum psychosis are more severe.
Postpartum Psychosis Diagnosis
To distinguish between the typical baby blues, postpartum depression or postpartum psychosis, the doctor usually asks a patient to complete a depression-screening questionnaire.
Postpartum Psychosis Symptoms and Signs
Symptoms of postpartum psychosis include all signs of postpartum depression, including anxiety, irritability, sadness and crying, headaches, exhaustion and a sense of inadequacy. Most of these symptoms may last only for several days or a few weeks. Many women experiencing baby blues may suffer from such symptoms, but when these symptoms last, it could turn into depression and eventually postpartum psychosis. Longer-lasting symptoms include constant fatigue, insomnia, severe mood swings, lack (or excessive) concern for self and baby, less interest in sex, impaired thinking, emotional numbness, lack of joy and withdrawal from family or friends. Patients with severe cases of postpartum depression may experience paranoia, hallucinations, delusions, confusion, disorientation and fear of harming the baby.
Postpartum Psychosis Treatment
Unlike postpartum depression that can be treated through support groups and counseling, postpartum psychosis requires immediate hospitalization. Once safety is ensured in the medical facility, treatment usually starts with hormone therapy and anti-depressants. Other treatments may include antipsychotic medications, lithium (mood stabilizer) and electroconvulsive therapy, which reduce depression symptoms by applying electrical current to the brain.