We’ve got the lowdown on everything you need to know about the frightening disorder…

What is postpartum psychosis?

According to Dr Karen Joash, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at The Portland Hospital, part of HCA Healthcare UK, postpartum psychosis is not to be confused with baby blues, postnatal depression or anxiety.

“Post-partum psychosis is a rare psychiatric emergency which is also known as puerperal psychosis,” she says. “It can start a few days after birth or may start as late as a few weeks after.”

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of postpartum psychosis can often be frightening and confusing, which makes educating yourself about the disorder even more important.

“Symptoms include irrational fears, racing thoughts, labile mood and hallucinations which may be auditory or visual,” Dr Joash says. “It can also manifest with severe anxiety, inability to sleep, confusion and a dreamlike state. Women can also feel extremely tearful and fearful. Ultimately, women are unable to do day-to-day activities as before.”

David James Lees, an integrative health expert specialising in emotional wellbeing, says sufferers can also experience delusional thinking.

“Sufferers may also experience out of character experiences such as high or low moods, loss of inhibitions, restlessness or agitation, and sometimes confusion,” he adds.

What causes it and who’s at risk?

According to Dr Joash, it’s difficult to predict who may be at risk of postnatal psychosis as it can occur in anybody: however, if a family member such as your mother has previously suffered from the disorder, you could be at increased risk.

“If a close relative has had the condition, such as your sister or mother, your risk is around 3%,” says Dr Joash. “However, if you have had previous postpartum psychosis, your risk of a recurrent episode is around 25%.”

“If a close relative has had the condition, such as your sister or mother, your risk is around 3%,” says Dr Joash. “However, if you have had previous postpartum psychosis, your risk of a recurrent episode is around 25%. In addition, those with bipolar disorder or schizophrenia may exhibit a severe onset of their symptoms after delivery.”

Genetics

As for the cause, there is still lots more research needed, but there is a genetic link, as well as a possible link to hormones.

“Current thinking is that it stems from the disruption in hormones after the birth of your child, which is made worse by a lack of sleep or disrupted sleep patterns,” says Lees.

“It can happen without warning. First-time mums are at higher risk of developing this condition particularly if the birth has been complicated or traumatic.

Suffering from a mental illness during pregnancy 

“There are other risk factors that could increase the chances of developing it, for example if you’ve previously suffered from bipolar disorder or manic depression, if you have previously suffered from postpartum psychosis, if you suffered from severe mental illness during your pregnancy, or if there is a family history of mental illness,” he adds.

“It is important to state that having any of these symptoms does not mean you will become ill after the birth of your child.”

If you’re worried you might be at risk, Dr Joash recommends speaking to a health professional to determine whether it’s worth starting some medication in late pregnancy or after delivery.

Can it be cured?

As frightening as the symptoms can be, Dr Joash says most sufferers will get better within a year. “The good news is that most women will fully recover within six to 12 months,” she says. “The worst symptoms generally last for 2 weeks with most seeing a resolution by three months.

“Most women will require support from their health visitor or specialist perinatal mental teams if there are some available in your area. Some women will also require support from social services. The main aim is to keep the mother and baby together and thus there are mother and baby units which serve each area.

“If there any concerns that this condition is developing it’s best to seek advice from a healthcare professional as soon as possible, as early intervention can sometimes limit the severity.”

Lees adds that quick, early action is incredibly important, because puerperal psychosis responds well to early treatment.

“Postpartum psychosis will not improve by ignoring it or hoping it will go away,” he says. “Most mother’s symptoms will clear up after a few weeks with no reoccurrence.

“Do not be concerned about speaking out and asking for help – your midwife and GP will not judge or criticise you.

Will I get ill again?

According to Dr Joash, if you’ve had previous postpartum psychosis, your risk of it recurring is around 25%. Lees recommends informing your GP and midwife of your previous circumstances if you get pregnant again so that they can advise you on the correct approach.

“Mothers and their partners can develop a birth and after-care plan based on the knowledge and experience of what worked best for them the last time, just in case they encounter something similar after their current birth,” he adds.