Diagnosis of PPP

[Ozymandias0_1]

Why has the consultant diagnosed bipolar? Surely the bipolar is a manifestation of PPP because I think I would have noticed bipolar if it had been present for the last 8 years - should I ask for a second opinion?

[andrea_at_app Volunteer]

HI Ozy, it's really difficult to understand it all at an already confusing & stressful time. I guess any new diagnosis takes time to come to terms with & fully understand. As your wife has had previous episodes, perhaps at times other than after childbirth?, this might be the first time it's been recognised? Personally, I'd probably leave it til later for a second opinion, I'm not sure it'd be helpful at this early stage (more stress?) & I'd want to focus on her recovery now - but obviously you're perfectly within your rights to ask for one at any time if you think it'd help. Remember to ask the professionals all your questions, & keep on asking, until they clarify things for you & you get the answers you need.

Have a look at this Frequently Asked Questions page , particularly the 'Who is most likely to get Postpartum Psychosis?' section with the link to the 'Guide for Women with Bipolar Disorder', it should answer some of your questions. app-network.org/what-is-pp/...

[orac]

I think the thing to do during this time is what feels best for you. If a second opinion does, then I'd certainly seek it.

In my own case, I lived to nearly 38 without bi-polar. Then a pregnancy filled with complications and illness, followed by a shocking delivery and postnatal experience brought on PPP as the start of bi-polar caused by the stress of my pregnancy related experiences. My doctors waited until a hypomaia after the PPP to raise the possible diagnasis of bi-polar though. Before then, they thought it may have been an isolated incident, which it could very well have been in many people's cases.

[Poulson]

Hi there

I suuered two episodes of ppp before I was finally diagnosed with bipolar at the age of 37.

This diagnosis fitted my symptoms, which may not be the case with you.

I would seek a second opinion if you are not satisfied.

I successfully sued my health authority for misdiagnosis.

Wishing you the best of luck

Take Care.

Poulson

[blueewell]

As I understand it, there are only two basic diagnoses available for mental health disorders: bipolar or schizophrenia. Which means PP patients are normally diagnosed bipolar. You will no doubt hear the phrase 'unusual presentation'. PP patients often don't fit the normal bipolar pattern. Unfortunately, the menu of available diagnoses doesn't currently allow for PP (it was removed many years ago).

So I don't think getting a second opinion on the diagnosis will get you anywhere. You might ask for 'puerperal onset' to be added though. In practice, however, I don't believe the wording of the diagnosis will make any difference to the treatment - but I have no medical expertise.

Andy

[Ozymandias0_1 in reply to blueewell]

Thanks Andy and everyone else - I am heartened by your kindness and experience - I will definitely be looking at all the info you have provided and get through this

[Naomi_at_app Volunteer]

Hi Ozy

So glad people's replies have been helpful for you. I hope you are getting on OK with the long distance to visit the Mother & Baby Unit. How is your wife doing?

Please do keep asking any questions you have & we will keep on doing our best to answer and support you in these early days.

N