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Postpartum psychosis is a critical mental health issue. It usually occurs after childbirth. In this condition, one loses contact with reality. The general symptoms include hallucinations (seeing or hearing non-existent things), delusions (believing in non-existent things), extreme mood swings, and confused thinking. This condition usually starts within the first four to six weeks after giving birth. It can hit suddenly. The condition can often be very frightening for both the mother and her family.
Synopsis
Know About Postpartum Psychosis
Postpartum psychosis is rare. Only 1 to 2 out of every 1,000 women get affected with this condition after childbirth. However, the risk is higher if the mother has bipolar disorder or has had postpartum psychosis before.
Postpartum psychosis can be very distressing. It can affect a mother’s ability to care for herself and her baby. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for the mother and baby's safety and well-being.
How Serious is This Condition, and Can It Lead to Harm?
While it is difficult to imagine a mother harming her newborn, this can happen when a mother is experiencing postpartum psychosis.
In about 4% of cases, women with this condition may have thoughts or behaviours that can lead to infanticide. For mothers who have postpartum psychosis, the normal feelings of love and protection for their baby can be overwhelmed by the illness, leading to actions that are completely out of character.
This condition requires immediate medical attention. With proper treatment, mothers can recover and regain their ability to care for and nurture their babies.
Consult a psychologist in Bangalore as and when required.
Causes and Symptoms of Postpartum Psychosis
There is no single cause behind postpartum psychosis. Research suggests that the interplay of several factors triggers it. This includes:
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Abrupt Hormonal Changes: After childbirth, rapid hormonal shifts can affect brain chemistry, potentially contributing to the onset of psychosis.
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History of Bipolar Disorder: Women with a history of bipolar disorder are at higher risk due to their existing vulnerability to mood disorders.
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Family History: A family history of postpartum psychosis or other psychiatric conditions may increase the likelihood of developing this condition.
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Sleep Deprivation and Stress: Lack of sleep and other stressors can also trigger or exacerbate symptoms.
Symptoms of postpartum psychosis can appear within the first 6 weeks after childbirth. Be vigilant for signs like:
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Hallucinations and Delusions: Seeing or hearing things that are not real.
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Extreme Mood Swings: Sudden and intense shifts in mood, from euphoria to agitation or severe depression.
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Confusion and Cognitive Disorganisation: Difficulty thinking, disorganised thoughts or speech, and impaired judgment.
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Paranoia and Bizarre Behaviour: Feeling suspicious or fearful without reason, unusual behaviour.
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Obsessive Thoughts: Persistent thoughts about harming oneself or the infant, despite no actual intent.
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Impairment in Functioning: Significant challenges in daily life, including personal care, relationships, work, etc.
Postpartum psychosis is a serious but treatable condition. With the right interventions, mothers can recover and resume a healthy life with their families.
Treating Postpartum Psychosis
The first stage of treatment typically involves medication. Mood stabilisers like lithium, commonly used in bipolar disorder, may be prescribed.
Antipsychotic medications and benzodiazepines can also be helpful to address hallucinations and delusions.
Regular intake of these medications can help alleviate symptoms.
Effective treatment often involves a combination of psychiatric and psychological interventions. While medications address the chemical aspects of the disorder, therapy with a psychologist focuses on understanding underlying causes such as family history, lifestyle factors, and stressors. This holistic approach aims to support the patient in overcoming challenges and preventing future episodes.
As soon as you notice the symptoms of postpartum psychosis, seek medical help.
Consult our psychology hospital in Whitefield if you need counselling and treatment for postpartum psychosis.
Reducing the Risk of Postpartum Psychosis
The primary factor contributing to postpartum psychosis (PPP) is often a previous diagnosis of bipolar disorder or a history of PPP. Patients with bipolar disorder may benefit from receiving holistic mental health interventions during and after pregnancy to reduce the risk of PPP.
Therapeutic Support
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Psychological Therapy: Engaging in therapy during pregnancy can be beneficial for both the mother and her family. A psychologist can assess readiness for parenthood, evaluate the strength of the support network, identify and address stressors, and provide valuable advice on adapting to new routines and managing potential challenges.
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Stress Management: Recognising and minimising stressors is crucial. Techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and healthy coping strategies can help reduce stress and promote emotional well-being.
Early Intervention and Support
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Medication Management: For women with a history of bipolar disorder, ensuring consistent management of medications under supervision throughout pregnancy and postpartum is essential.
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Support Networks: Building a strong support network that includes family, friends, and healthcare professionals can provide crucial emotional and practical support during the transition to parenthood.
Conclusion
By taking proactive steps such as participating in therapy, managing stress effectively, and maintaining medication regimens as prescribed, women with bipolar disorder can reduce the risk of experiencing postpartum psychosis. These measures not only support the mother’s mental health but also contribute to a positive and stable environment for the entire family.
FAQ's
It is crucial to get medical help immediately if you see signs like:
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Delusions or hallucinations
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Extreme mood swings or mania
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Confusion or disorganisation in thinking
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Paranoia or bizarre behaviour
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Obsessive thoughts about harming oneself or the infant
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Significant impairment in daily functioning
There are several reasons contributing to the silence surrounding postpartum psychosis including lack of awareness, mental health stigma, and fear of asking for help.
If someone you know is suffering from postpartum psychosis, here are a few things you can do to support them.
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Prioritise their well-being
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Seek professional help
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Educate yourself and others
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Be there for them throughout the journey
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