A Prospective Observational Study on Risk Factors, Clinical Features, and Short-Term Outcomes in Postpartum Psychosis at a Tertiary Care Centre
Author(s): Inapakurthi Archana, Sonasree Jammulapati
Abstract: Background:
Postpartum psychosis
(PPP) is a rare but severe psychiatric emergency occurring in the early
puerperal period. Despite its low prevalence, it poses significant risks to
maternal and neonatal well-being. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical
presentation, associated risk factors, and treatment outcomes in patients
diagnosed with postpartum psychosis.
Materials
and Methods: This
prospective observational study was conducted over 12 months at a tertiary care
hospital. A total of 52 women who presented with new-onset psychotic symptoms
within six weeks postpartum were enrolled after informed consent. Data
collected included sociodemographic characteristics, psychiatric history,
obstetric details, symptom profile, management strategies, and short-term
outcomes. Patients were assessed using the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale
(BPRS) and followed for 12 weeks post-treatment. Statistical analysis included
descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression to identify
predictors of prolonged recovery.
Results: The mean age of participants was 27.4 ± 4.6 years;
63.5% were primiparous. A previous history of mood disorders was reported in
32.7% of cases. The most common presenting symptoms were mood lability (76.9%),
auditory hallucinations (55.8%), and delusions of persecution (44.2%).
Antipsychotics were administered in all cases, while 17.3% required mood
stabilizers. Electroconvulsive therapy was used in 11.5% of patients. Complete
remission at 12 weeks was achieved in 84.6%. Delayed recovery was significantly
associated with prior psychiatric illness (p=0.032) and lack of family support
(p=0.014).
Conclusion:
Postpartum
psychosis is strongly linked to prior psychiatric history and parity. Early
diagnosis and structured intervention significantly improve short-term
prognosis.
Pages: 232-235 | 53 Views | 28 Downloads
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