How to undertake metabolic risk monitoring in postpartum psychosis?

Herbert Mwebe, Lucy Fleming

Research output: Other contributionpeer-review

Abstract

Postpartum psychosis can affect 1 per 1,000 women after giving birth and is a treatable mental health emergency (NHS 2023). In practice, women with postpartum psychosis exhibit symptoms such as altered behaviour, rapid speech, insomnia, heightened energy, racing thoughts, and withdrawal within the first two weeks post-delivery. Jairaj et al (2021) stress the urgency of treating women with postpartum psychosis promptly due to the risks posed to both the women and their children, including physical and emotional neglect, maternal suicide, and infanticide. Due to its rapid onset and serious risks, inpatient admission and immediate medication initiation are recommended. However, prescribing medication, especially to breastfeeding mothers, poses challenges due to concerns about potential harm.
Original languageEnglish
Publication statusPublished - 5 Aug 2024

Publication series

NameMental Health Practice (RCNi)

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