Many new moms have intrusive thoughts. That's not the same as postpartum psychosis.
Reproductive psychiatrist Dr. Sarah Oreck clarifies that postpartum psychosis is a distinct and serious medical condition that differs from common intrusive thoughts in new mothers. She emphasizes that while the condition is not as rare as often assumed, violent outcomes remain exceedingly uncommon.
Why it matters
Correctly identifying and destigmatizing postpartum mental health issues is critical for ensuring mothers receive appropriate medical intervention and support.
Dr. Sarah Oreck is a reproductive psychiatrist Courtesy of Sarah Oreck Dr. Sarah Oreck is a reproductive psychiatrist who has treated postpartum psychosis. She says patients don't mumble, talk to themselves, or look like common depictions of psychosis. Violence with the condition — and other forms of psychosis — is exceedingly rare. This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Dr. Sarah Oreck , founder of Mavida Health . It has been edited for length and clarity. As a reproductive psychiatrist, I'm focused on the way that female reproductive hormones impact mental health in unique ways. I've been interested in that since I was a tween, watching my mom struggle with depressive symptoms during perimenopause. In the 10 or so years that I've been practicing, I've seen the field take off. Women, especially millennial women, are demanding that doctors take them seriously.
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