Postpartum Psychosis
NURTURE INFORMATION HUB
Evidence
Lee S. Cohen, Miranda Arakelian, Taylor R. Church, Madison M. Dunk, Margaret L. Gaw, Hannah E. Yoon, Lauren A. Kobylski, Rachel Vanderkruik & Marlene P. Freeman
Postpartum psychosis (PP) is a severe psychiatric disorder–with limited data or consensus on diagnostic criteria and clinical presentation–that affects thousands of people each year. The Massachusetts General Hospital Postpartum Psychosis Project (MGHP3) was established to: 1) describe the phenomenology of PP, and 2) identify genomic and clinical predictors in a large cohort. Results thus far point to a richer understanding of the heterogeneity and complexity of this often-misunderstood illness and its nature over time. Data are collected from those who experienced PP within 6 months of delivery and within the 10 years prior to the MGHP3 interview. Participants provide information via the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview for Psychotic Disorders Studies (MINI-PDS), MGHP3© Questionnaire (including assessment of episode onset, duration, symptoms, and treatment received), and other relevant history. This retrospective study uses validated diagnostic tools to evaluate psychiatric history across participants’ lifetimes.
Education
Having a baby born premature or sick is usually a very different path than what you had expected. When your baby is in a neonatal unit, it can feel like your whole world has been turned upside down. At different times you may experience a combination of powerful feelings, such as fear, love, guilt, elation, anxiety, joy, isolation, pride, sadness, anger, confusion, numbness, disappointment and a range of other emotions.
While it’s completely natural to feel overwhelmed, sometimes those feelings can spiral.
Many new parents have never heard of postpartum psychosis until they or someone close to them experience it. It is a rare but severe mental health condition that can occur suddenly after childbirth. It is considered a psychiatric emergency.
It affects approximately 1 to 2 in every 1,000 new mothers.
Symptoms usually begin within the first few days or weeks after birth and often very suddenly.
What are the symptoms?
- Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t there)
- Delusions (false beliefs)
- Extreme confusion or disorientation
- Severe mood swings
- Agitation or restlessness
- Insomnia
- Thoughts of self-harm or harm to the baby (not all mothers experience this, but it can occur)
Women who have a premature birth are at higher risk of developing mental health issues during and after birth.
How is postpartum psychosis identified and diagnosed?
Seeking urgent help from a GP, mental health service or hospital emergency department is very important. Delays in identification and treatment can mean that treatment lasts longer and is more complex. There can be significant safety risks for both the mother and baby. Partners and family members are likely to have to take the lead in accessing treatment. The condition can make the mother confused and she may have trouble seeing things in perspective. She may not be aware that something is wrong or be incapable of accessing timely and appropriate help.
More information on Postpartum psychosis can be found here
Empowerment
If you or someone you love experiences postpartum psychosis, it is important to know that help is available and recovery is possible. You are not alone, and reaching out for support is a strong and vital step.
- Seek urgent medical help – Postpartum psychosis is a medical emergency. If you notice symptoms in yourself or someone else, call emergency services or go to the hospital immediately. Fast treatment can make a big difference in recovery.
- Trust your instincts – If something doesn’t feel right, speak up. You know yourself best. Asking for help early is never a weakness, it is an act of courage.
- Stay connected – Share how you are feeling with someone you trust. This might be your partner, a family member, a close friend, or a healthcare professional. Talking can lift some of the weight and help others support you.
- Know your rights – You deserve compassionate, respectful and safe care. It’s okay to ask questions, request clear explanations, and involve a support person in appointments.
- Focus on recovery, not blame – Experiencing postpartum psychosis is not your fault. With the right treatment and support, many mothers make a full recovery and go on to enjoy life and motherhood.
- Plan for ongoing support – After the crisis has passed, ongoing follow-up and support can help you regain confidence and wellbeing. This may include therapy, peer support, or joining groups where others understand what you are going through.
By reaching out, accepting help and giving yourself time to heal, you can take steps towards recovery and hope for the future.
Useful Links
Miracle Babies Foundation
COPE – Centre of Perinatal Excellence
https://www.cope.org.au/new-parents/postnatal-mental-health-conditions/postpartum-psychosis
PANDA - 1300 726 306
https://www.panda.org.au/get-support/support-postnatal-psychosis
Need support? NurtureConnect allows you to connect with our NurtureProgram support team, or call our 24 hour NurtureLine 1300 622 243 or join our Facebook community.
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Confirmation Content
Disclaimer: This publication by Miracle Babies Foundation is intended solely for general education and assistance and it is it is not medical advice or a healthcare recommendation. It should not be used for the purpose of medical diagnosis or treatment for any individual condition. This publication has been developed by our Parent Advisory Team (all who are parents of premature and sick babies) and has been reviewed and approved by a Clinical Advisory Team. This publication is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Miracle Babies Foundation recommends that professional medical advice and services be sought out from a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your personal circumstances. To the extent permitted by law, Miracle Babies Foundation excludes and disclaims any liability of any kind (directly or indirectly arising) to any reader of this publication who acts or does not act in reliance wholly or partly on the content of this general publication. If you would like to provide any feedback on the information please email [email protected].
Disclaimer: This publication by Miracle Babies Foundation is intended solely for general education and assistance and it is it is not medical advice or a healthcare recommendation. It should not be used for the purpose of medical diagnosis or treatment for any individual condition. This publication has been developed by our Parent Advisory Team (all who are parents of premature and sick babies) and has been reviewed and approved by a Clinical Advisory Team. This publication is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Miracle Babies Foundation recommends that professional medical advice and services be sought out from a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your personal circumstances.To the extent permitted by law, Miracle Babies Foundation excludes and disclaims any liability of any kind (directly or indirectly arising) to any reader of this publication who acts or does not act in reliance wholly or partly on the content of this general publication. If you would like to provide any feedback on the information please email [email protected].
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