Postpartum Psychosis

Postpartum psychosis is a serious mental health illness that can affect anyone soon after childbirth. It is an episode of mania or psychosis occurring shortly after childbirth. It occurs in approximately 1-2 out of every 1000 births. The onset is usually sudden, often within the first two weeks after birth.

What are symptoms of Postpartum psychosis?

1. Delusions or strange beliefs
2. Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren't there)
3. Feeling irritated
4. Hyperactivity, excited, elated
5. Decreased need for sleep or inability to sleep
6. Paranoia or suspiciousness
7. Rapid mood swings
8. Difficulty communicating at times

What are the risks of developing Postpartum psychosis?

1. Personal history of bipolar disorder
2. Family history of bipolar disorder
3. Previous psychotic episode

Postpartum psychosis is temporary and treatable with professional help, but it is an emergency. Call my office at Willow Tree Wellness at 316-779-2560 or an emergency crisis hotline 1-800-273-8255 immediately if you or someone you care about has any symptoms.