Objective: The aim of this study was to identify prodromal postpartum psychosis symptoms that are experienced by women prior to the diagnosis of postpartum psychosis.Methods: A qualitative, retrospective approach was utilized using grounded theory to conduct interviews with 13 women who had a history of postpartum psychosis. The interviews were transcribed and identification of categories, properties, and iterative hypothesis development and testing through the use of constant comparative analysis was performed. Demographic variables including age, marital, status, level of education, gravity, parity, and a history of mental health diagnosis and family history of mental illness were obtained.Results: Participants identified symptoms that fell within four major core themed groups. Participants identified the following themes in the period prior to diagnosis of postpartum psychosis: Sleep disturbances were characterized as an inability to sleep or no desire to sleep. Significant mood changes were categorized as either excitement or hyperactivity or anxiety or depression. Alteration in thought processes were expressed as being in a fog and having racing thoughts. Psychological stress was identified by the participants as feeling crazy and being completely paranoid. A conceptual model naturally emerged from the core categories identified in the study. Conclusion:Four core categories of prodromal postpartum psychosis symptoms were identified. Practitioners who care for pregnant women should assess for risk factor for postpartum mood and anxiety disorders when performing perinatal depression screenings. Women at risk should undergo additional monitoring in the postpartum period for prodromal symptoms of postpartum psychosis. Education of prenatal practitioners can help increase awareness of early symptoms of postpartum psychosis.