POSTPARTUM PSYCHOSIS RISK FACTOR AND MANAGEMENT; A PROSPECTIVE STUDY

Abstract

Background: Postpartum psychosis is an acute psychotic condition that develops in the first few weeks after childbirth; the incidence ranges between one and two per 1000 women.

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the risk factors associated with postpartum psychosis and to evaluate the efficacy of various therapy options in 100 individuals.

Study Design: A Prospective Study.

Duration and Place of the Study: Department of Psychiatry & Gynae & Obs department, Mardan Medical Complex (MMC), Mardan from January 5, 2020 to January 6, 2021.

Methods and Material: A total of 100 women who had given birth during the period under review were recruited for the study. By the hospital's protocols, the ethics committee sought and provided ethical approval, as well as informed permission from all participants. The selection criteria were women aged 18 to 45 years, who had been in the process of giving birth during the time of the study and who agreed to be followed up. Potential participants were excluded for meeting any of the following criteria a history of schizophrenia, current substance abuse, or any severe medical condition that would affect psychiatric assessment.

Results: The study included 100 patients. The majority of patients were between the ages of 25-34 years (60%), with an equal ratio of those under 25 years (20%) and over 35 years (20%). The socioeconomic position was mostly middle class (50%), with 30% coming from low and 20% from high socioeconomic backgrounds. The majority of participants were married (80%), with single and divorced/widowed persons accounting for 10% each. Significant risk factors identified included a personal history of bipolar disorder (46.7% in the postpartum psychosis group vs. 3.5% in no psychosis group, p < 0.01), family psychiatric history (53.3% vs. 25.9%, p < 0.05), preeclampsia (26.7% vs. 7.1%, p < 0.05)

Conclusion: It also identifies the common themes for postpartum psychosis such as past and family history of psychiatric disorders, and emphasizes pharmacological and psychotherapy interventions.