Which of the following is NOT a risk factor for perinatal psychosis?

Which of the following is NOT a risk factor for perinatal psychosis?

• A. First baby
• B. Previous bipolar episodes
• C. Stable mood throughout pregnancy
• D. Sleep deprivation

Answer: (C)

The choice suggesting that stable mood throughout pregnancy is not a risk factor for perinatal psychosis is accurate because stability in mood is generally considered a protective factor rather than a risk factor. Individuals who maintain a stable mood are less likely to experience the mood disturbances that can lead to psychosis during the perinatal period. Conversely, the other factors listed, such as having a first baby, previous bipolar episodes, and sleep deprivation, are recognized risk factors. A first pregnancy can be associated with uncertainty and new challenges that may contribute to mental health issues. Previous episodes of bipolar disorder significantly increase the risk for developing perinatal psychosis due to the nature of the illness. Sleep deprivation is another critical risk factor, as lack of adequate sleep can exacerbate mental health symptoms and lead to deterioration in overall psychological well-being during the perinatal phase. Hence, recognizing a stable mood as a non-risk factor is fundamental to understanding the dynamics of perinatal mental health.

The choice suggesting that stable mood throughout pregnancy is not a risk factor for perinatal psychosis is accurate because stability in mood is generally considered a protective factor rather than a risk factor. Individuals who maintain a stable mood are less likely to experience the mood disturbances that can lead to psychosis during the perinatal period.

Conversely, the other factors listed, such as having a first baby, previous bipolar episodes, and sleep deprivation, are recognized risk factors. A first pregnancy can be associated with uncertainty and new challenges that may contribute to mental health issues. Previous episodes of bipolar disorder significantly increase the risk for developing perinatal psychosis due to the nature of the illness. Sleep deprivation is another critical risk factor, as lack of adequate sleep can exacerbate mental health symptoms and lead to deterioration in overall psychological well-being during the perinatal phase. Hence, recognizing a stable mood as a non-risk factor is fundamental to understanding the dynamics of perinatal mental health.