Postpartum psychosis
Actualizado: 8 may
"Postpartum psychosis lies at the most severe end of postnatal depression. Only around 0.1–0.2% of women develop this mental health condition during the postpartum period, and it is considered a serious disorder that can trigger psychosis.”
In this mood disorder, the mother may experience a psychotic episode, which can include delusional thoughts, hallucinations, disorganised speech and, in some cases, disorganised behaviour. With appropriate treatment, full recovery is possible.
Symptoms of postpartum psychosis may include psychomotor fluctuations ranging from agitation to stupor, rapid mood changes from extreme euphoria and anxiety to deep depression, disturbances in thinking and speech ranging from excessive talking to mutism, altered perception of time, sleep disturbances, particularly insomnia, loss of contact with reality, delusions and/or hallucinations, hostility and irritability, disorganised behaviour, and in severe cases, actions that may place the baby’s life at risk, including infanticide.
At the beginning of treatment for postpartum psychosis, a family member or healthcare professional must be continuously present to supervise and support the mother in caring for herself and for her baby. Ongoing psychiatric treatment and psychosocial support are also indispensable. Gradually, and following assessment by a multidisciplinary team, the mother may begin to resume her daily activities and eventually care for her child independently, without supervision.
In conclusion, when postnatal depression is not identified, addressed or treated, symptoms may intensify, or the condition may become chronic. In certain cases, the absence of appropriate intervention can lead to difficult situations in which the life of the mother and/or her child is at risk.
It is important to emphasise that this type of mood disorder must be diagnosed by a healthcare professional. This article aims to guide and inform mothers, fathers and families so that symptoms can be recognised and professional help sought when needed. Early identification and preventative intervention for women at risk of postpartum psychosis can help prevent symptoms from worsening and support recovery.
Referencias: Medina-Serdán, E. (2013). Diferencias entre la depresión postparto, la psicosis postparto y la tristeza postparto. Perinatología y reproducción humana, 27(3), 185-193.
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