A closer look at the nosological status of the highs (hypomanic symptoms) in the postpartum period

Primacy of (hypo) mania in the postpartum period: A concept worth considering

“…Of women referred to specialty clinics, 12-30% reported experiencing hypomanic or manic symptoms after childbirth. 4 We argue that the primacy of (hypo) mania concept may be particularly relevant in the postpartum period due to the common occurrence of hypomanic/manic symptoms. 2,4 Specifically, treatment approaches emphasizing prevention of hypomania or mania may be more effective in reducing postpartum morbidity and promoting safety in women with bipolar disorder.…”

“…We thank Christine Baczynski for her assistance with preparing the manuscript. Verinder Sharma 1,2 Adele C. Viguera 3,4 Arianna Di Florio 5,6 Dwight Mazmanian 7…”

Is postpartum depression a clinically useful concept?

“…Hypo/manic symptoms are common in the postpartum period and can occur as part of bipolar disorder or major depressive disorder with mixed features. Subthreshold episodes of hypomania are ubiquitous after delivery and are associated with increased risk of depression in the postpartum period [9].…”

Postpartum Relapse in Patients with Bipolar Disorder

“…Episodes of hypomania, mania, or depression may occur in the context of BD or develop for the first time after childbirth. Although not as prevalent as the baby blues, elation and associated hypomanic symptoms (generally referred to as the “highs”) are also common after childbirth [ 8 ]. It is important to detect these “highs”, even if they do not have a functional impact, because these postpartum hypomanic symptoms may be associated with subsequent depression [ 8 ].…”