Abstract:

Postpartum psychosis is the one of the most severe psychiatric disorder that can be seen during postpartum period. It can be seen between 0.10.2 % ratios at postpartum period. It is generally seen in the first two weeks after delivery but in almost 80% of the cases can also be seen until the end of the first month. Risk increases for those who have a positive family history of psychiatric disorder. It is seen more often in primipars, young and those who have psychological disorder history before delivery. Abrupt decrease of serum concentrations of estrogen and progesterone after delivery is suggested in its etiology. Early symptoms of postpartum psychosis may be insomnia and fatigue. The patient may give harm to her baby or herself if develops psychotic features including delusions or hallucinations. Suicidal ideas and suicide attempts may be more prominent than they occur in postpartum depression. It should be treated immediately and effectively due to suicide or homicide risks. If it can not be treated with antipsychotic drugs then electroconvulsive therapy (EKT) can be an alternative treatment option. Ninety-five percent of the treated patients with postpartum psychosis recover usually in 2-3 months period. Health workers practicing in first step can play important roles in detection and early management of patients with postpartum psychosis

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