Introduction: Postpartum psychosis is a rare but severe mental disorder that occurs in the first two weeks after childbirth, affecting 1 to 2 women per 1,000 births and requiring medical attention as soon as possible. Symptoms by which postpartum psychosis can be recognized include severe depression, mania, hallucinations, delusions, anxiety, irritability, and disorganized speech. Depressive symptoms are particularly dangerous, as these can lead to suicidal thoughts or thoughts of harming the child. Treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach and hospitalization, most often with antipsychotics and mood stabilizers. Psychotherapy and family support also contribute to long-term recovery. Women with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder or previous psychotic episodes are considered to be particularly at risk of developing postpartum psychosis. Purpose: To identify the importance of quickly recognizable symptoms of postpartum psychosis and to differentiate between postpartum psychosis and postpartum depression. Methods: A descriptive work method was used, with a review of professional domestic and foreign scientific literature. Slovene and English literature published between 2014 and 2024 was used, collected from the PubMed (Medline), Cinahl (EBSCO), Cochrane, and Google Scholar databases. Results: Early recognition of symptoms and quick action is the key to preventing serious consequences. Comprehensive care includes medical, psychiatric, and psychosocial support, improving prognosis and long-term outcomes for mother and child. Discussion and conclusion: Postpartum psychosis is a serious mental disorder that affects 0.001% to 0.002% of women after childbirth. Women with bipolar disorder or a previous psychotic or manic episode are particularly prone to it. Prompt recognition of symptoms such as mood swings, delusions, and disorganized speech is paramount to ensuring appropriate treatment and support is available for mothers and their families.
|
