Article Title

Treatment of Mental Disorders in Pregnancy: A Review of Neuroleptics, Antidepressants, and Lithium Carbonate

Authors

Lawrence L. Kerns, MD, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago

Abstract

Pregnancy is frequently complicated by the development or recurrence of a serious mental disorder; neurotic, major affective, and psychotic illnesses have all been observed (1-4). When a major mental disorder arises in a pregnant woman and threatens the health or life of the patient and/or fetus, it should be treated early and aggressively to minimize complications and forestall the advance of the disease. Nonbiologic methods like individual psychotherapy, couples or family therapy, social casework, and hospitalization in a supportive, structured milieu should form the first line of treatment. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be the treatment of choice for some patients, e.g., a first trimester mother with a life-threatening episode of bipolar illness. If the illness persists in spite of nonbiological interventions, and if the risks of the inadequately treated disease outweigh the risks associated with a potentially useful medication, then a trial of that medication is clearly indicated.

Recommended Citation

Kerns, MD, Lawrence L. (1986) "Treatment of Mental Disorders in Pregnancy: A Review of Neuroleptics, Antidepressants, and Lithium Carbonate," Jefferson Journal of Psychiatry: Vol. 4: Iss. 2, Article 5.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.29046/JJP.004.2.002
Available at: https://jdc.jefferson.edu/jeffjpsychiatry/vol4/iss2/5