Postpartum bipolar depression: a case study

PURPOSE: This case study of a 29-year-old married woman with postpartum bipolar depression demonstrates the importance of an accurate differential diagnosis when evaluating a patient presenting with symptoms of postpartum depression. CONCLUSION: Although many of the signs and symptoms of unipolar depression and bipolar depression are identical, there are some important differences. Careful evaluation of symptoms and a thorough psychiatric history leads to accurate diagnosis and successful treatment outcomes. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: All women presenting with postpartum depression should be screened for bipolar disorder as the treatment of bipolar depression differs substantially from unipolar depression.