Understanding Postpartum Psychosis
The birth of a child is often one of life’s most joyful milestones. Yet for a small number of new mothers, the postpartum period can bring severe psychiatric symptoms that can be frightening and confusing for both mother and family. As a psychiatrist who has worked extensively with new mothers, I’ve seen firsthand how postpartum psychosis (PPP)—though rare—can profoundly affect both mother and baby. Early recognition and prompt care are essential to ensure safety and recovery.
What Is Postpartum Psychosis?
Postpartum psychosis is a serious mental health condition that can develop suddenly after childbirth. Unlike the common “baby blues,” which usually resolve within two weeks, postpartum psychosis can include hallucinations, delusions, extreme confusion, or rapid mood swings.
Delusions are false beliefs that feel real to the person experiencing them. For example, a mother might believe her baby is in danger despite all evidence to the contrary. These thoughts can be frightening and distressing.
Because symptoms can escalate quickly, early medical and psychiatric evaluation is critical. Support from family, friends, and healthcare providers can make a huge difference in safety and recovery.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms generally appear within the first two weeks after delivery, and may include:
Severe mood swings, agitation, or irritability
Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren’t real)
Delusions (strong false beliefs that feel real)
Confusion, disorientation, or memory gaps
Rapidly changing energy levels
Difficulty sleeping or refusing to eat
Recognizing these signs early allows families and healthcare providers to intervene promptly and support the mother safely.
“I felt like I was living in a nightmare. I couldn’t tell reality from my fears, and I was terrified of what I might do to my baby. My psychiatrist helped me feel safe and guided me through recovery.”
Risk Factors
While postpartum psychosis can occur in any mother, certain factors may increase risk:
Personal or family history of bipolar disorder or psychotic episodes
First-time pregnancy
Extreme sleep deprivation or stressful life events
Hormonal or medical complications during pregnancy
Causes
The exact cause of postpartum psychosis is not fully understood, but research suggests several contributing factors:
Hormonal changes after childbirth
Genetic vulnerability to mood or psychotic disorders
Sleep deprivation and extreme stress during the postpartum period
Our psychiatrists have expertise and training in understanding these factors, allowing us to provide personalized, compassionate care.
Treatment Approaches
Postpartum psychosis is a psychiatric emergency. Treatment usually combines medication, psychotherapy, and family support:
Medication: Antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and sometimes antidepressants can stabilize symptoms quickly.
Hospitalization: Short-term inpatient care may be necessary to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.
Psychotherapy: Supportive therapy helps mothers process experiences and regain emotional stability.
Family Education: Educating family members about the condition can help them provide safe, compassionate support.
Early intervention dramatically improves outcomes and can be life-saving.
Reproductive and Perinatal Mental Health Expertise
At Tranquility Psychiatry, our team specializes in reproductive and perinatal mental health, providing expert care for mothers experiencing postpartum psychosis, depression, OCD and anxiety. This expertise includes:
Understanding the unique hormonal, psychological, and emotional changes during pregnancy and postpartum
Tailoring treatment plans to the individual, including both medication and supportive therapy
Coordinating care with obstetricians and pediatricians to ensure safety for mother and baby
Providing ongoing support to reduce the risk of recurrence in future pregnancies
Our goal is to offer compassionate, informed care to help mothers and families navigate this challenging period safely and confidently.
When to Seek Immediate Help
Postpartum psychosis is a medical emergency. Seek help immediately if you notice:
Hallucinations or delusions
Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby
Severe confusion or inability to care for your child
Prompt attention can protect both mother and baby, and families should never hesitate to reach out for professional care.
Supporting Recovery
Recovery involves a combination of treatment and self-care:
Following a structured plan of medication and therapy
Prioritizing sleep, nutrition, and rest
Building a supportive network of family and friends
Monitoring for recurring symptoms
With the right support, most mothers recover fully and go on to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
Resources for Postpartum Psychosis
For mothers, families, and caregivers seeking additional guidance and support:
Books by People Who Have Experienced Postpartum Psychosis:
“Inferno: A Memoir of Motherhood and Madness” by Catherine Cho
“A Mom Like That: A Memoir of Postpartum Psychosis” by Aaisha Alvi
Organizations and Support
Postpartum Support International (PSI) – Provides online support groups, peer mentors, and educational resources.
MGH Postpartum Psychosis Project — Provides additional personal survival stories, additional resources. If you’d like to get involved you can join the ongoing study.
Find Treatment — for a list of inpatient (hospital) and intensive outpatient treatment programs throughout the USA
Crisis Resources
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.) – Dial or text 988
Emergency Services – Call 911 if there is immediate risk to mother or baby
Text HOME to 741741 from anywhere in the USA
Take the First Step
If you or a loved one is navigating postpartum psychosis, you are not alone. At Tranquility Psychiatry, our psychiatrists provide compassionate, evidence-based care, combining reproductive and perinatal mental health expertise with psychiatric management to ensure safe recovery and long-term well-being.
👉 Call today to speak with one of our experts and learn how specialized care can help you regain stability, cope effectively, and strengthen your bond with your baby.
