Postpartum Mania & Psychosis

Your World Turned Upside Down

Nothing is more challenging in the postpartum period than navigating through an episode of postpartum mania and psychosis.  If you have experienced an episode, you may find it helpful to read stories from other women who have experienced this.  In addition, you may be worried about future pregnancies. Below are some resources for healing from a episode of postpartum mania, reading what other women have gone through in their journeys and how to plan to prevent a recurrence in your next pregnancy.

Healing after an episode

Postpartum psychosis symptoms.

Postpartum psychosis treatment normally involves an inpatient stay and the use of mood stabilizing and/or antipsychotic medications.  In most cases, this will mean spending time away from your newborn child, though there are now inpatient units that specialize in maternal mental health and which allow for more contact between mother and newborn.  

Once you've recovered, you may want to pursue outpatient psychotherapy to help you process the trauma of having experienced such an intense and life-altering mental illness.  Ideally, you should see someone who specializing in perinatal mental health.  If you are not in our area, you can contact your area's Postpartum Support International coordinator to find help near you.

Other Women's Stories

Melissa Bangs went through an episode of postpartum psychosis.  After recovery, she created a stage performance about her experience.

Teresa Twomey, JD wrote about her own experiences as well as those of other women with postpartum psychosis in her book Understanding Postpartum Psychosis.  It gives a very clear clinical understanding of the disorder followed by personal stories of the illness.

Planning for Your Next Pregnancy

After one episode of postpartum psychosis, there is a 31% chance of a recurrence in the next pregnancy. However, this chance is greatly reduced if you are proactive about preventative treatment.  

If you are in our area, consult with our staff about how to prevent recurrence in your next pregnancy.  If you live elsewhere, start by finding local resources through Postpartum Support International.