What is postpartum psychosis?
Mental health in pregnancy and after birth (SIGN)
Postpartum psychosis is a rare condition. It affects only one to two women for every 1,000 births, but it can be very serious. It usually happens within the first month after the birth, but it’s common for symptoms to develop in the first few days.
It’s unlikely you will know you have postpartum psychosis. But some of the symptoms that your partner, family and healthcare professionals should look out for include:
• feeling anxious about everything
• delusions (odd thoughts that are unlikely to be true, for example that people are out to get you)
• hallucinations (which usually consist of hearing voices that comment on behaviour, are insulting or give commands), and
• irrational thoughts.
If you have a history of postpartum psychosis, schizophrenia, or schizoaffective disorder it is important to tell your health professional so you can get information and advice about the risk of relapse in pregnancy and after birth. This will ensure you have a care plan to meet your needs. You may benefit from additional support from a specialist perinatal mental health service or other mental health professional.
Further information
- Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCP) information sheets:
- Action on Postpartum Psychosis Insider guidesThis website includes guides on recovery after psychosis, planning a pregnancy, and a guide for partners.
