Postpartum Psychosis
This is the most severe type of mental illness that happens after having a baby. It affects around 1 in 1000 women and starts within days or weeks of childbirth. It can develop in a few hours and can be life-threatening, so needs urgent treatment.
There are many symptoms that may occur. Her mood may be high or low and there are often rapid mood swings. Women often experience psychotic symptoms. They may believe things that are not true (delusions) or see or hear things that are not there (hallucinations).
Although puerperal psychosis is a serious condition, the vast majority of women make a full recovery. The illness always needs medical help and support. She may have to go into hospital. Ideally, this should be to a specialist mother and baby unit where the baby can go with her.
