Hi
I suffered PP after both of my children. I seem to remember reading something about there being a risk of a repeat episode of psychosis during the perimenopause stage. Does anyone have any experience/feedback or other words of advice in relation to this please? I will be going to GP too. Thank you in advance.
My wife suffered a recurrence coming up to menopause after having no symptoms for over ten years (there's a big gap between our daughters and she suffered PP with both). The symptoms - even the words she was using - were identical to those she suffered at childbirth, starting with a lack of sleep and over-elation.
That's by no means a certainty, however.
APP has conducted initial research in this area - there's more about that in the 'Am I likely to have an episode of psychiatric illness at other times' section of the FAQ page: app-network.org/what-is-pp/... There's also a section titled 'Relapse planning' in the insider guide on recovery: app-network.org/wp-content/...
I hope that's helpful,
Andy
Thank you Andy, that is very helpful indeed.
Hello there, I also had read much the same and was a little bit concerned as I entered the perimenopause and menopause. All I can say if it is of any help that there were a couple of moments when I felt myself under stress and full of anxiety and I felt what I would describe to my husband as 'a bit wobbly'. What I would do during those times would be to make as much as I could simple at home. Shepherds Pie, Star Trek and knitting!! I kept the cooking simple, I watched things that I find lovely uplifting and encouraging ie no stress! I took up knitting again and found it so relaxing. I just made squares of plain knitting and over time would crochet them together and make blankets which I then gave away. I also joined a choir and found singing and music in general a really good way to focus on something other than my own thoughts. So acknowledging my feelings, taking steps to keep my life as stress free and as orderly as I could manage. Finding time to rest and stop doing was essential but I understand this can be easier said than done. Also doing things that you love what ever that might be . Life is so busy these days so to build in time to swim, walk, sing, be creative and contemplative all these things were helpful, I am now 58 and as far as I know I am through the menopause. My episode of PP was 29 years ago. I hope your visit to the GP is helpful and if I can help in any other way then please get in touch. Helen
Hi rose
You've had some really good replies on here, and Andy has given some really good links. There does need to be more research done into the links between pp and the risk of relapse during the peri menopause.
I did want to let you know there is a personal experience story on our website that you may be interested in reading of someone who did have a relapse during the menopause period. This is by no means everyone but you may like to read her story: app-network.org/what-is-pp/...
I hope this helps, take care and I hope you can get the support and advice you are looking for.
Take care
Ellie
Rose - I had PP with only one of my 3 children, but I did have serious issues during perimenopause. These two things helped a lot - I got a ceiling fan which helped cool the room and provide white noise, and I also took some flaxseed which provides phytoestrogens. It's normal to have sleep disruption during perimenopause, so it's every important to focus on good sleep hygiene. A hot bath before bedtime is not a good idea, as that will raise your body temperature. Try cooling the room and possibly use a white noise machine. Also monitor your caffeine and alcohol, as those can be sleep disruptors also.
Good luck to you! Sharon
Hi Rose
I had a early menopause in my early 30's. I just experienced the normal symptoms associated with menopause. I'm happy to report that I've never had any psychotic episodes since the birth of my first child. I'm now 61 now , so far good! All the very best to you. Vx
Thank you all for your replies and support. I am seeing my GP Monday. I have invested in a fan already but will definitely look at getting some flaxseed.
Hi there.
I suffered PP twice after both children and once after a miscarriage. I also suffered a psychotic episode during my perimenopause phase. I have a wonderful husband now who understands everything I have been through. I am now back at work part-time. I am in a much healthier place now. I have a new baby granddaughter and love to see her. I stopped drinking alcohol about 16 months ago and feel a lot better for it. I was self medicating, which unknown to me was making me worse. I hope you feel better soon. My thoughts are with you. X
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