Infanticide: new medical considerations

A relationship between disturbed hormonal and metabolic equilibrium during puerperium and ensuing mental and emotional imbalance has been postulated for a long time. In England and Wales this consideration has resulted in the crime of infanticide being reduced from murder to manslaughter. Recent data indicate that the therapeutic and even routine administration by physicians of powerful vasoactive agents during puerperium, and particularly that of ergot derivatives, is probably the most frequent factor leading to 'pure puerperal psychosis'. It is proposed, therefore, that this psychosis is in fact, in most instances, a form of ergotism and its signs and symptoms and consequences, including coincidental infanticide, themselves are actually manifestations of acute ergot poisoning. It is suggested that based on this information a thorough re-evaluation of the relevant legal concepts is necessary.