Healthy Mom

Find out if you have Postpartum Psychosis

This test reports on a new mother's risk for Postpartum Psychosis. It's quick, free, and you’ll get your confidential results instantly.

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1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester

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Postpartum Infections Test

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Postpartum Thyroiditis Test

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Breast Infection Test

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Postpartum Anxiety Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Anxiety.

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Postpartum Depression Test

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Postpartum Sleep Disorder Test

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Diastasis Recti Test

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Preeclampsia Test

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Postpartum Preeclampsia Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Preeclampsia.

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Postpartum Trauma Test

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2nd, 3rd Trimester

Obstetric Cholestasis Test

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Deep Vein Thrombosis Test

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Postpartum Cardiomyopathy Test

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Symptoms & Causes

Postpartum psychosis is a rare but severe mental health condition that can affect women shortly after childbirth. It is considered a medical emergency due to its potential risks to both the mother and the baby. Understanding the symptoms and causes of postpartum psychosis is crucial for early detection and prompt treatment.

Symptoms

Postpartum psychosis typically develops within the first two weeks after delivery. Symptoms can be sudden and severe, including:

  • Hallucinations: Seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not real.
  • Delusions: Strongly held false beliefs, such as thinking the baby is in danger or that someone is trying to harm the mother or baby.
  • Severe Agitation: Intense restlessness or inability to sit still.
  • Mood Swings: Rapid changes in mood, from extreme happiness to severe depression.
  • Confusion: Difficulty thinking clearly, disorientation, or feeling disconnected from reality.
  • Paranoia: Suspiciousness or irrational fears about people or situations.
  • Insomnia: Inability to sleep, even when exhausted.
  • Manic Behavior: Periods of excessively high energy, hyperactivity, or impulsive behavior.
  • Depressive Symptoms: Severe depression, feelings of hopelessness, or thoughts of self-harm or harming the baby.

Causes

The exact cause of postpartum psychosis is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to its development:

  • Hormonal Changes: Rapid and significant hormonal fluctuations after childbirth can impact brain chemistry and contribute to psychosis.
  • Genetic Predisposition: A family history of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or postpartum psychosis increases the risk.
  • Personal History: Women with a personal history of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or previous episodes of postpartum psychosis are at higher risk.
  • Sleep Deprivation: Severe lack of sleep and fatigue can exacerbate symptoms of psychosis.
  • Emotional Stress: The stress of adjusting to new motherhood and caring for a newborn can trigger symptoms in susceptible women.
  • First-Time Mothers: Women experiencing their first pregnancy and childbirth may be at a higher risk.

Recognizing the symptoms and understanding the potential causes of postpartum psychosis can help new mothers and their families seek immediate medical attention. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of both the mother and the baby. If you suspect someone is experiencing postpartum psychosis, contact a healthcare provider or emergency services immediately.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Postpartum psychosis is a rare but severe mental health condition that can occur shortly after childbirth. It is considered a medical emergency due to its potential risks to both the mother and the baby. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for recovery. This article outlines the key methods for diagnosing and treating postpartum psychosis.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing postpartum psychosis involves several steps:

  • Medical History and Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will review the patient’s medical history, including any personal or family history of mental health disorders, and conduct a physical examination to rule out other conditions.
  • Psychiatric Evaluation: A mental health professional will perform a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to assess the severity of symptoms, including hallucinations, delusions, and mood disturbances.
  • Laboratory Tests: Blood tests may be conducted to check for underlying medical conditions, such as thyroid imbalances, that could contribute to symptoms.
  • Observation: In some cases, a period of observation in a hospital setting may be necessary to accurately diagnose and monitor the condition.

Treatment

Treating postpartum psychosis requires a multi-faceted approach, including medical intervention and supportive care. Treatment options include:

  • Hospitalization: Due to the severity of symptoms, hospitalization is often necessary to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby. Inpatient care provides a secure environment for treatment and monitoring.
  • Psychotherapy: Individual therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help the mother understand and manage her symptoms. Therapy can also provide strategies for coping with stress and preventing relapse.
  • Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): In severe cases ECT may be considered. ECT involves brief electrical stimulation of the brain while the patient is under anesthesia and can provide rapid symptom relief.
  • Supportive Care: Emotional and practical support from family, friends, and healthcare providers is crucial. Support groups and counseling can help the mother feel less isolated and more understood.
  • Follow-up Care: Regular follow-up appointments with mental health professionals are essential to monitor progress, adjust treatment plans, and provide ongoing support.

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial for managing postpartum psychosis and ensuring the safety and well-being of both the mother and the baby. If you suspect someone is experiencing postpartum psychosis, contact a healthcare provider or emergency services immediately to seek help and initiate treatment.

When to Seek Treatment

Postpartum psychosis is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical intervention. New mothers and their families should be vigilant and seek treatment promptly if they suspect postpartum psychosis. Here are some key indicators that it’s time to consult a healthcare provider:

  • Hallucinations: Seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not real.
  • Delusions: Strongly held false beliefs, such as thinking the baby is in danger or that someone is trying to harm the mother or baby.
  • Severe Agitation: Intense restlessness or inability to sit still.
  • Mood Swings: Rapid changes in mood, from extreme happiness to severe depression.
  • Confusion: Difficulty thinking clearly, disorientation, or feeling disconnected from reality.
  • Paranoia: Suspiciousness or irrational fears about people or situations.
  • Insomnia: Inability to sleep, even when exhausted.
  • Manic Behavior: Periods of excessively high energy, hyperactivity, or impulsive behavior.
  • Thoughts of Harm: Thoughts of harming oneself or the baby, or recurring thoughts of death or suicide.

If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms after childbirth, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Postpartum psychosis is a medical emergency, and early diagnosis and treatment are vital for the safety and well-being of both the mother and the baby. Contact a healthcare provider or emergency services right away if you suspect postpartum psychosis.