Recognizing and Managing Postpartum Psychosis: A Clinical Guide for Obstetric Providers

Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am. 2018 Sep;45(3):455-468. doi: 10.1016/j.ogc.2018.04.005.

Abstract

Postpartum psychosis is a psychiatric emergency that affects 1 to 2 per 1000 women. Key clinical features include mood fluctuation, abnormal thoughts or behaviors, and confusion. Women with a history of bipolar disorder are at heightened risk, as are first-time mothers; current research on the causes focuses on biological triggers, such as immune dysregulation. Women with postpartum psychosis require inpatient hospitalization and should be treated with lithium, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines.

Keywords: Bipolar disorder; Perinatal psychiatric disorders; Postpartum psychosis; Treatment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Checklist
  • Early Diagnosis
  • Emergency Services, Psychiatric*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Medical History Taking
  • Mothers / psychology*
  • Obstetrics / methods*
  • Postpartum Period / psychology*
  • Psychotic Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Psychotic Disorders / therapy*
  • Puerperal Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Puerperal Disorders / therapy*
  • Risk Factors