Psychiatric emergencies during pregnancy and puerperium in low - And middle-income countries

Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol. 2024 Jun:94:102478. doi: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2024.102478. Epub 2024 Feb 21.

Abstract

Pregnancy and puerperium are critical points in women's health, and various psychiatric emergencies may worsen or manifest (for the first time) during this period. In the presence of a psychiatric emergency, the pregnancy and puerperium outcomes may be compromised. In addition to the mother being at risk, the health of the fetus and the newborn may also be compromised if the psychiatric emergency is not managed appropriately. Early detection and collaborative approaches between mental health practitioners and obstetricians are of utmost importance in women who are at risk and those living with psychiatric illnesses during pregnancy and puerperium. Practitioners should also ensure that women with impaired capacity due to psychiatric disease are treated in a non-judgmental and respectful manner, even if their autonomies have been overridden.

Keywords: Emergency; LMIC; Pregnancy; Psychiatry; Puerperium.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Developing Countries*
  • Emergencies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mental Disorders* / diagnosis
  • Mental Disorders* / therapy
  • Postpartum Period
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications* / diagnosis
  • Pregnancy Complications* / therapy
  • Puerperal Disorders* / diagnosis
  • Puerperal Disorders* / therapy