Postpartum Psychosis

Postpartum Psychosis (PPP) is a rare condition that affects approximately one to two out of every 1,000 women who give birth. It is a serious mental health disorder characterized by symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions, disorganized behavior, fatigue, difficulty focusing, rapid changes in mood, anxiety, and other psychotic symptoms. General physicians may recommend hospitalization for affected mothers to ensure their safety and provide necessary treatments. Other treatments may include psychotherapy, counseling, medication, nutrient therapy, supportive care and lifestyle modifications. Women with postpartum psychosis should be followed closely and monitored by their general physician throughout the illness in order to prevent any further complications or health risks.

Postpartum Psychosis is a serious mental health disorder characterized by symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions, disorganized behavior, fatigue, difficulty focusing, rapid changes in mood, anxiety, and other psychotic symptoms. Other symptoms may include difficulty sleeping, excessive worrying or rumination about the baby or oneself, feelings of guilt or shame for thoughts experienced during the episode, and elevated destructive behavior towards oneself or the baby. Women with postpartum psychosis should be followed closely and monitored by their general physician throughout the illness in order to prevent any further complications or health risks.

The most common type of postpartum psychosis is bipolar mania, which includes symptoms such as extreme mood swings and bursts of energy. Other types of postpartum psychosis include psychotic depression, schizoaffective disorder, and postpartum onset schizophrenia. The symptoms and progression of the illness vary from individual to individual, so it is important for affected mothers to be followed closely by their general physician in order to ensure appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Conventional treatments for postpartum psychosis (PPP) typically involve a combination of psychotherapy, medications, and supportive care. Psychotherapy can help people with PPP gain insight into the condition and learn how to manage it better. Medications such as antipsychotics are prescribed to reduce symptoms of PPP, though they often come with side effects. Additionally, hospitalization may be necessary in some cases to manage the condition more effectively and prevent harm to oneself or others. Supportive care is also important and includes having a family member or close friend close by who can support you during this difficult time.

The orthomolecular understanding of postpartum psychosis (PPD) is that it may be caused by extreme excess retention of copper. During pregnancy, a woman’s copper levels will increase. In some cases, they can double. After childbirth, the copper levels in a typical woman will normalize naturally. Copper levels that do not normalize on their own in women who develop postpartum depression can ultimately develop postpartum psychosis. Excess copper in the brain can alter the balance of dopamine and norepinephrine, two chemicals that regulate our moods.

Females who are copper toxic have poor copper detox mechanisms. For these women, copper levels rise with each pregnancy, and they do not come down. These copper-toxic women with poor copper detox mechanisms find themselves depressed after pregnancy and unable to recover, even years later. Some of these females move from postpartum depression to postpartum psychosis.  Women with postpartum depression after their first two children are at greater risk with subsequent pregnancies unless they receive proper treatment for their biochemical imbalance.  It is not solely the number of pregnancies but the actual copper level that affects the risk for postpartum psychosis. In terms of postpartum psychosis (PPP), this approach focuses on providing nutrients to correct imbalances caused by hormone disruptions during and after pregnancy. 

At Mensah Medical, we believe copper must be carefully and slowly reduced to normal levels. If copper is removed too quickly, it will likely cause a worsening of symptoms that can last for weeks at a time. Through blood & urine testing, Mensah Medical’s physicians determine your key biochemical imbalances and use individualized compounded supplementation to restore these markers, and the neurotransmitters they support, to their optimal level. By correcting imbalances of essential nutrients in the body, symptoms, and concerns are addressed at the root level. If you or a loved one is currently on an antidepressant and/or another psychiatric medication, Mensah Medical physicians will work to first restore your chemistry, rebuild your foundation, and then look to work with your physician to slowly decrease your medication.

Individuals should seek treatment for postpartum psychosis at the first indication of symptoms. If you or a loved one have had a child and are feeling overwhelming sadness, an inability to bond with the baby, hallucinations, paranoia, strange thoughts or delusions, and/or heightened irritability, then contact Mensah Medical to schedule an appointment. Women with postpartum psychosis after their first two children are at greater risk with subsequent pregnancies unless they receive proper treatment for their biochemical imbalance.

Postpartum psychosis (PPP) is a rare but serious disorder that can affect new mothers soon after childbirth. It is believed to be related to hormonal changes during and after pregnancy, as well as other factors such as genetics and psychological stress. Copper, which is needed for the development of blood vessels in the fetus, can also push dopamine to form norepinephrine. Extreme excess copper can lead to hormone dysregulation and cause symptoms of anxiety, depression,  and paranoia. Additionally, some research suggests that a history of mental health conditions or a traumatic birth experience can be risk factors for developing PPP. It is important to seek professional help if you are experiencing symptoms associated with PPP in order to get the right diagnosis and proper treatment.

Postpartum psychosis (PPP) is a rare but serious psychiatric disorder that affects some new mothers soon after childbirth. There are several risk factors associated with PPP, such as having a prior history of mental health conditions or a traumatic birth experience. Other factors that have been linked to PPP include severe sleep deprivation, recent bereavement or other significant life events, and mood changes during pregnancy. Additionally, certain genetic markers may increase the risk for this condition. Women with any of these risk factors should be monitored closely for symptoms of postpartum psychosis so they can receive the appropriate diagnosis and treatment.

Postpartum psychosis (PPP) is a rare but serious disorder that can have serious complications if left untreated. PPP can cause problems such as difficulty bonding with the baby, harmful behavior toward oneself or others, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Furthermore, it may lead to stress-related physical health issues such as shortness of breath, high blood pressure, headaches, and chest pain. Although PPP is treatable with supplementation, psychotherapy, and other support services, women who are experiencing symptoms should seek professional help promptly in order to avoid any possible complications and receive the proper diagnosis and treatment.

Although it is not possible to completely prevent postpartum psychosis (PPP), there are a few steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of developing this condition. Women should ensure they get enough rest and support during their pregnancy, practice good self-care, and seek help if they have any thoughts or concerns about their mental health. Additionally, healthcare providers should monitor women for signs of depression or other mental health issues throughout pregnancy and after birth. They should also receive proper treatment for biochemical imbalances postpartum in order to best support their system during the transitionary period. By taking these preventive measures, women may be able to reduce the risk of developing PPP and ensure they receive optimal care and support in the event that symptoms arise.

The diagnosis of postpartum psychosis (PPP) is made based on a thorough evaluation of the woman’s mental health and medical history, as well as an assessment of her current symptoms. Common symptoms that may point to PPP include delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thinking or behavior, and reduced inhibitions. A physical examination will also be performed to rule out other medical conditions that could be causing similar symptoms. If doctors suspect PPP, they may order laboratory tests or other diagnostic procedures to confirm the diagnosis. In some cases, referral to a psychiatrist may be necessary for further assessment and treatment.

Lifestyle and home remedies may be beneficial in reducing the symptoms of postpartum psychosis (PPP). Women should ensure they get adequate rest, take care of their physical health, and practice good self-care habits such as healthy eating, exercise, and relaxation. Additionally, women should seek support from friends and family members to help manage any feelings of isolation or loneliness. It may also be helpful to join a support group or use online resources to connect with other people who have experienced PPP. Finally, women should avoid taking any drugs or alcohol, which could further disrupt their mental health.

Alternative or natural medicine may be beneficial in reducing symptoms of postpartum psychosis (PPP). Evening Primrose Oil, Inositol, and GABA have been shown to be useful in reducing feelings of anxiety or depression. Acupuncture or massage therapy may also help reduce stress and improve relaxation. Furthermore, yoga or meditation may provide a form of self-care that can help manage the symptoms of PPP. Women should always consult with a doctor before taking alternative therapies and ensure they are safe for use during the postpartum period.

Prior to your first appointment at Mensah Medical, you will be required to complete a new patient intake form as well as a patient history form. These forms must be submitted to Mensah Medical before an appointment can be scheduled. For Outreach Clinic appointments, these forms must be submitted one week before the scheduled Outreach. For established patients, prior to your follow up, you will be required to complete a progress report. This must be submitted via your Elation Passport at least 72 hours before the appointment.

At Mensah Medical, we run lab work and blood tests to confirm your bioindividual needs. If, during the appointment, the doctors deem it necessary, they may order additional testing such as hair analysis, G.I. Map, SAM/SAH Methylation Profile, or others. Please do not submit independent lab work until you have consulted with the Mensah Medical clinical team. The physicians will create an individualized nutrient protocol to address each of the imbalances presented. Treatment and long-term monitoring will be facilitated by the nursing staff, Dr. Mensah, and Dr. Bowman. Formal follow-ups on an individual’s progression will be done every six months to ensure biochemical levels and symptoms are responding appropriately. As a patient, you will have easy and efficient access to our nurses and clinical team through an Elation Passport Portal.