Post Partum Psychiatric Syndromes—an Analysis of 100 Consecutive Cases1

100 consecutive out patients with onset of Psychiatric illness within 40 days of child birth were studied by using Indian Psychiatric Interview Schedule and a specially designed Proforma. It was found that post partum psychiatric syndromes occurred most frequently in patients less than 25 years of age. Stress of Physical illness was present in a considerably high number of patients (74%). In 66% the Psychiatric illness was associated with first child birth and risk of Puerperal Psychosis in subsequent deliveries was found to be 32%.; Onset of illness is seen most frequently (85% cases) within 3 weeks of child birth. The Diagnostic breakup showed Schizophrenic reactions (68%) affective disorders (25%) and neurotic reactions (7%). Findings have been discussed.