Difference between Post Partum Depression and Post Partum Psychosis
(580 Words)
Post-partum depression and post-partum psychosis are two very serious disorders that can follow a pregnancy. It is very important to understand the difference between the two because of the risk each can provide to the mother and baby.
Post-partum depression is a serious condition in which a woman who has just given birth experiences great feelings of sadness that last beyond a couple of weeks or are very severe. She may feel hopeless and guilty and lose interest in activities. She may have difficulty bonding with her child. She will often cry a lot and may have suicidal feelings. Sleeping may be difficult, and everyday activities can become insurmountable.
Many factors contribute to post-partum depression. Hormonal changes are thought to play a great part in its emergence. Women are more at risk if they have a history of depression in themselves or in their family. If she has a substance abuse problem or lacks financial or emotional support, then she may be more likely to get it as well.
Post-partum psychosis is generally much more severe than post-partum depression. It is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate attention. Fortunately, it is also much more rare, occurring only in 1 to 4 of a thousand births. It is often misdiagnosed as post-partum depression, so it is important to know its characteristics.
Post-partum psychosis may be caused by some of the same factors that cause post-partum depression. Major hormonal changes are thought to be the driving factor behind it. Women with a personal or family history of psychosis, schizophrenia or bipolar disorder have a higher chance of getting the condition. Risk increases 20% to 50% if a woman experienced it in a prior pregnancy.
Other risk factors for post-partum psychosis are the same as for depression. Women with less of a support system, financial problems, low self-esteem and many of the other factors behind post-partum depression have a greater chance of getting post-partum psychosis.
The symptoms of post-partum psychosis can be very severe and usually appear after a few weeks of giving birth. The woman may experience hallucinations. She may become delusional, and her thoughts can lack logic or reason. Sleep may be difficult, and she may not want to eat. Manic episodes can occur.
Some of the symptoms will be the same as post-partum depression although they are often magnified. She may feel extremely anxious or agitated. She may feel suicidal or homicidal, even towards her own baby. In post-partum depression, it is unlikely that the woman would carry out these thoughts even if she has them. In post-partum psychosis, there is a much greater likelihood for the woman actually doing so.
It is important for a woman who might be suffering from either affliction to seek prompt medical care. Those suffering from post-partum depression may need counseling by a medical health professional. They are also often prescribed antidepressants such as paroxetine or sertraline.
Post-partum psychosis usually requires medication. She may be given antipsychotic, antidepressant and/or antianxiety drugs. Because of the dangers of suicide or homicide, it is not uncommon for a woman suffering from post-partum psychosis to require hospitalization. Counseling will also likely be part of her treatment.
Physicians and family members should carefully watch new mothers for symptoms of post-partum depression and post-partum psychosis. Fortunately, with the proper treatment, most women can improve greatly. The more people know about these conditions, the more likely they will be able to prevent and successfully treat them.
Resources:
http://www.pregnancy-info.net/postpartum_psychosis.html
http://www.womenshealth.gov/faq/depression-pregnancy.cfm
http://www.alegent.com/18729.cfm