Veerle Bergink, MD, PhD, highlights familial links of postpartum psychosis

In a recent interview with Contemporary OB/GYN, Veerle Bergink, MD, PhD, professor in the department of psychology at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, discussed the implications of postpartum psychosis and highlighted findings from her research on familial risk and prevention strategies.

Postpartum psychosis is a rare but severe psychiatric emergency that typically arises within days to weeks after childbirth. It significantly impacts maternal quality of life and is a leading cause of maternal death in the first postpartum year, often because of suicide. Despite its severity, postpartum psychosis is highly treatable if identified early, with most women achieving full recovery within weeks when given appropriate psychiatric care, including lithium and antipsychotics.

Bergink emphasized the importance of early detection and proactive risk assessment during pregnancy. Her study found that women with a first-degree relative who experienced postpartum psychosis have a 10-fold increased relative risk. However, because the condition is rare, the absolute risk remains low at approximately 1.5%. The data offer reassurance to concerned family members while also underlining that postpartum psychosis has a heritable component, suggesting the need for continued genetic research.

Significantly higher risks are seen in women with bipolar disorder—about 1 in 6 will develop postpartum psychosis, and an equal number may experience severe postpartum depression, resulting in an overall 1 in 3 risk of serious psychiatric illness after childbirth. Women with a history of postpartum psychosis in a prior pregnancy also face a 1 in 3 chance of recurrence.

To reduce the burden of postpartum psychosis, Bergink advised routine screening during pregnancy for bipolar disorder and past episodes of postpartum psychosis. For high-risk women, preventive strategies, including early psychiatric consultation and postpartum medication initiation, are crucial. After birth, ensuring adequate sleep and support—such as help with nighttime feedings—can further mitigate risk.

Bergink concluded by stressing that while postpartum psychosis is life-threatening, it is also highly preventable and treatable. Raising awareness among clinicians and families, and encouraging timely intervention, can dramatically improve outcomes and prevent tragic consequences such as suicide or infanticide.

No relevant disclosures.

References

1. Women whose sister experienced postpartum psychosis are more than 10 times as likely to experience it themselves, according to new research. The Mount Sinai Hospital. May 20, 2025. Accessed June 2, 2025. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1084625.
2. Kępińska AP, Robakis TK, Humphreys K, et al. Familial risk of postpartum psychosis. The American Journal of Psychiatry. 2025;182(6). doi:10.1176/appi.ajp.20230576