Motherhood Capacity in Women with Schizophrenia

Abstract

Background: In comparison to the general adult female population, women afflicted by schizophrenia exhibit higher rates of unintended and undesired pregnancies. Maternal individuals grappling with severe mental health challenges face an increased susceptibility to postpartum psychosis, depression, and anxiety stemming from the presence of a child. Psychotic conditions often lead to the rejection of pregnancy, subsequently impinging upon maternal parenting capabilities. The predominant source of support for women with schizophrenia emanates from their familial networks. Case illustration: This paper presents the case of a 41-year-old adult female diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia that was 40 weeks pregnant and admitted for medical care. The patient received treatment for restlessness and speech slurring. Comprehensive evaluations were conducted by healthcare professionals from the obstetrics and gynecology as well as psychiatry departments, leading to a decision to proceed with a cesarean section to terminate the pregnancy. Methods: Patients receive medical interventions and psychological assistance to stabilize their mental health conditions and avert relapses. Supportive psychotherapy and family psychoeducation, coupled with a collaborative approach involving discussions with obstetrician colleagues regarding childcare plans and supplementary psychiatric treatment, are implemented to enhance maternal well-being while attending to infant care. Conclusion: The obstetric team extensively deliberated the advantages and disadvantages of terminating the pregnancy, considering the provision of sustained care for both the patient and her unborn child. Given that the pregnancy termination was facilitated via cesarean section due to the patient's mental health concerns and the potential adverse effects of antipsychotic medication, the patient's family plays a pivotal role in providing assistance for infant care. Consequently, breastfeeding is contraindicated concerning the patient's mental health status and the potential consequences of antipsychotic treatment.