Pregnancy in women with psychotic disorders
- Resource Type
- Article
- Authors
- Howard, L.M.
- Source
- Clinical Effectiveness In Nursing; 2006, Vol. 9 Issue: Supplement 2 pe201-e211, 11p
- Subject
- Language
- ISSN
- 13619004
Objectives: To review the psychiatric and obstetric complications of pregnancy in women with psychotic disorders and discuss implications for prevention and treatment of these conditions. Design: Narrative review. Results: Many women with psychotic disorders have children but their pregnancies are at an increased risk of obstetric complications, stillbirths and neonatal deaths, and psychiatric complications. Women with a history of mood disorders (affective psychoses) are at high risk of postpartum relapse. A significant proportion of mothers with psychotic disorders have parenting difficulties and lose custody of their infant. Conclusions: Close liaison between all health professionals during pregnancy and postpartum is essential for optimal management of these high-risk pregnancies.