Postpartum Psychosis: A Preventable Psychiatric Emergency

Focus (Am Psychiatr Publ). 2024 Jan;22(1):44-52. doi: 10.1176/appi.focus.20230025. Epub 2024 Jan 12.

Abstract

Postpartum psychosis is the most severe psychiatric disorder associated with childbirth. Although rare, it is considered a psychiatric emergency that warrants immediate medical attention and inpatient care to ensure safety, complete diagnostic evaluation, and treatment initiation. This article describes the phenomenology of postpartum psychosis, clinical evaluation, treatment guidelines, and prevention strategies.

Keywords: Childbirth; Postpartum psychosis; Pregnancy.

Publication types

  • Review