Postpartum affective disorders: the manias and depression of childbirth.

Care offered to women with post-partum affective disorders is crucial to their present and future self-concept and their ability to bond with their infant. Nurses working in obstetrical units are becoming more aware of facilitating the natural bonding process and the staffs of psychiatric/mental health professionals also need to take this into account when working with mothers experiencing post-partum affective disorders. Currently there is much exciting basic research in post-partum illnesses and, it is hoped, in the future women will not have to endure extensive emotional trauma during the post-partum period. Meanwhile, it behooves nurses to help affected women and their families to cope with their experiences in the most productive, guilt-free manner.