Is the perimenopause a time of increased risk of recurrence in women with a history of bipolar affective postpartum psychosis? A case series

Arch Womens Ment Health. 2008;11(1):75-8. doi: 10.1007/s00737-008-0215-2. Epub 2008 Feb 18.

Abstract

There is increasing awareness of the influence of female reproductive life events on the course of bipolar disorder. Here, we describe the case histories of 5 women diagnosed with postpartum psychosis who subsequently experienced major mood disorders in relation to the perimenopause. This case series suggests that (a) the perimenopause may be a time of increased risk for women who experienced postpartum bipolar episodes and (b) periods of hormonal change represent a major trigger for bipolar episodes in some women.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Bipolar Disorder*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Perimenopause*
  • Psychotic Disorders*
  • Puerperal Disorders*
  • Recurrence
  • Reproductive History*
  • Risk
  • United Kingdom