Postpartum psychosis: can it be prevented? A high-risk case report with a favorable outcome

Abstract

Introduction: postpartum psychosis is a rare psychiatric emergency that poses serious risks to both mother and child. Suicide and infanticide are the worst outcomes. Perinatal clinical and psychiatric examination is crucial in order to determine which patients are at high risk.

Case Report: A puerperal patient whose 23-day-old son was a wanted child from a planned pregnancy presented with behavioral changes that began seventeen days after the birth, including introversion, incoherent speech, soliloquy, and auditory hallucinations. She was into one of psychomotor agitation, irritability, and disorganized and hazardous behavior. At the diagnosis, she was suffering delusions of guilt and unfaithfulness. She was paranoid and negligent with her newborn. Previous psychiatric events appeared to be a manic episode. Pharmacological treatment resulted in full remission, and she was discharged from hospital.

Discussion: This condition is frequently overlooked due to its low incidence. This case report are suggestive of the need for greater observance during the perinatal period. Red flags include history of post-partum psychosis or bipolar disorder, clinical prodromal signs such as delirium, psychomotor agitation, and mental confusion, especially when social stress factors are present.

Conclusion: A thorough medical evaluation is recommended in order to prevent risks and implement preventative treatment, such as Lithium Carbonate.