Ketamine assisted psychotherapy in postpartum mood and anxiety disorders: a limited case series

Summary

Ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP) has been explored as a treatment option for postpartum mood and anxiety disorders (PMADs) during the first two years postpartum. The study examines three cases where KAP was part of comprehensive treatment plans for PMADs, highlighting its potential utility and the impact of psychedelic insights on symptom management. Existing treatments often fall short in addressing the rapid changes experienced during the postpartum period.

Study at a glance

Abstract

The postpartum period is notorious for rapid and profound changes for birthing individuals and their families. Significant shifts to hormonal and physical health, routines and family roles, and the salience of personal and community risk factors all contribute to potential psychiatric and psychological distress for parents, sometimes diagnosed as a postpartum mood or anxiety disorder (PMAD). Existing pharmacologic treatment modalities for PMADs do not comprehensively address the profound shifts of the postpartum period, often inadequate at reaching peak therapeutic efficacy in a shorter time frame, in patient accessibility, or offering sustained benefit. Ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP), is increasingly recognized as a therapeutic option for a range of psychiatric disorders and has been explored as a modality to prevent PMADs when used during Cesarean births. This retrospective case series examines three cases where ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP) was introduced during the first two years postpartum as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for PMADs. This study describes the utility of ketamine assisted psychotherapy to the postpartum individual, and offers perspective on the impact of psychedelic insights through treatment of PMAD symptoms

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