PSI Postpartum Mood & Anxiety Disorders Knowledge 2

Question 1

Which postpartum mood disorder is characterized by intrusive, ego-dystonic thoughts that the mother finds deeply disturbing and inconsistent with her values?

Accepted Answer

Postpartum OCD

Answer

Postpartum OCD involves unwanted intrusive thoughts (e.g., harming the baby) that are ego-dystonic, meaning they conflict with the mother's values and cause significant distress.

Question 2

A new mother reports flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance following a traumatic birth experience. Which postpartum condition is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Birth-related PTSD

Answer

Birth-related PTSD presents with classic PTSD symptoms—flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance, and hyperarousal—triggered by a traumatic labor or delivery experience.

Question 3

According to PSI guidelines, postpartum panic disorder is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Recurrent unexpected panic attacks with anticipatory fear of future attacks

Answer

Postpartum panic disorder features recurrent, unexpected panic attacks and persistent worry about having more attacks, which is distinct from generalized postpartum anxiety.

Question 4

Postpartum rage is increasingly recognized as a symptom most commonly associated with which condition?

Accepted Answer

Postpartum depression

Answer

Postpartum rage and irritability are recognized presentations of postpartum depression, which does not always manifest as sadness alone.

Question 5

Which factor is considered the STRONGEST single predictor of postpartum depression?

Accepted Answer

History of depression or anxiety during pregnancy

Answer

Antenatal depression or anxiety is the strongest predictor of postpartum depression; women who are depressed or anxious during pregnancy are at substantially elevated risk.

PSI - Postpartum Support International Practice Test

PSI - Postpartum Support International Practice Test

PSI Postpartum Mood & Anxiety Disorders Knowledge 2