Universal Journal of Psychology(CEASE PUBLICATION) Vol. 1(4), pp. 153 - 157
DOI: 10.13189/ujp.2013.010401
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The Agony of Puerperal Psychosis on Women in Childbirth: Implications for Counselling and Health Education

Ime N. George ^1,*, Felicia S. Ekpu ², Eme E. Imah ^1
1 Department of Educational Foundations, Guidance and Counselling, University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria
² Department of Physical and Health Education, University of Uyo, Uyo Nigeria

ABSTRACT

Puerperal psychosis is a rare but serious mental stress disorder triggered within a few months after childbirth. It is considered one of the most dangerous forms of post- partum stress disorders, which could lead to a tragic outcome if not detected and treated quickly. This paper examines the causes of the health condition as being; previous history of bipolar disease, hormonal changes, chromosomal problems, severe economic difficulties, lack of social support, poor self-image, and strained relationship with spouse among others. The signs and symptoms explored include anxiety, restlessness, sadness, depression and hallucination. Consequently, the necessity for counselling and health education need not be overemphasized as the pregnant women should be counselled right from prenatal period for the need to be emotionally and psychologically adjusted during childbirth. There is also great need for strong family involvement and support, psychiatrist services should be sought and judicious administration of prescribed drugs to clients to avoid relapse of the health condition, above all health education at all stages to the child-bearing families.

KEYWORDS
Women, Childbirth, Puerperal psychosis, Adjustment Counselling, Health Education

Cite This Paper in IEEE or APA Citation Styles
(a). IEEE Format:
[1] Ime N. George , Felicia S. Ekpu , Eme E. Imah , "The Agony of Puerperal Psychosis on Women in Childbirth: Implications for Counselling and Health Education," Universal Journal of Psychology(CEASE PUBLICATION), Vol. 1, No. 4, pp. 153 - 157, 2013. DOI: 10.13189/ujp.2013.010401.

(b). APA Format:
Ime N. George , Felicia S. Ekpu , Eme E. Imah (2013). The Agony of Puerperal Psychosis on Women in Childbirth: Implications for Counselling and Health Education. Universal Journal of Psychology(CEASE PUBLICATION), 1(4), 153 - 157. DOI: 10.13189/ujp.2013.010401.