When It’s Not Postpartum Depression: The Bipolar Diagnosis Many Moms Miss

Is it postpartum depression—or could it be bipolar disorder? In this episode, Sarah sits down with reproductive psychiatrist Dr. Claire Smith to talk about why bipolar disorder during pregnancy and postpartum is often missed, especially bipolar II. They break down the key differences between bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, and postpartum psychosis, why sleep is a critical factor in mood stability, and how the right diagnosis can completely change a mom’s treatment and recovery. An important conversation for mothers, partners, and providers who want to better understand bipolar illness in the perinatal period—and why getting the diagnosis right matters.