Obstetric care for women diagnosed with schizophrenia

Abstract

Objectives: to establish the essential implications of schizophrenia spectrum disorder in women going through the pregnancy and postpartum period from an obstetric point of view; to highlight fundamental aspects of the care of the newborn of a mother diagnosed with schizophrenia, after childbirth and during breastfeeding. Methodology: a literature review was carried out using various databases: PubMed, SAGE, ScienceDirect, Scielo, Web of Science and PsycINFO. Descriptors used: schizophrenia, prenatal care, postnatal care, antipsychotic drugs, breastfeeding, psychiatric rehabilitation, psychotic disorders. Results: in pregnant women diagnosed with schizophrenia, the assessment of the benefit-risk ratio for antipsychotic treatment is essential. Obstetric outcomes are a consequence of lifestyle, symptoms and antipsychotic treatment, as well as of other concomitant medical conditions. Close observation of the newborn after childbirth and during breastfeeding is essential, as well as optimal follow-up of the mother in the puerperium. Conclusions: women diagnosed with schizophrenia and in the process of gestation present needs in various spheres of their life, requiring socio-health care throughout their life. Regarding medical treatment, antipsychotics are used, after prior information and consensus with the patient and her family support network. After childbirth and during breastfeeding, newborns are more vulnerable, given their exposure to antipsychotic treatment, and must be closely monitored.