Postpartum Psychosis
Postpartum psychosis is rare.  It occurs in 1 or 2 out of every 1000 births and usually begins in the first 6 weeks after the birth  of the child.  Women who have bipolar disorder or other psychiatric disorders such as schizoaffective disorder may be at higher risk for developing postpartum psychosis. 

Symptoms:

  • Thought disorders (i.e., delusions, hallucinations)
  • Hearing voices telling you to harm yourself or your baby
  • Sleep disturbances obsessive thoughts about the baby
  • Rapid mood swings from depression to irritability to extreme happiness

Individuals are a greater risk for suicide and hurting their newborn baby if symptoms persist without treatment.  If you or a family member are experiencing any of the above symptoms you should get professional help immediately.  Call your family doctor or OB/GYN for immediate help.

Read more about Postpartum Depression

 

 

 

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