Mental health articles

Past psychiatric or psychological difficulties
A history of mental illness or ongoing personal difficulties increases the risk of a recurrence of these problems during the ante- and post-partum period. This is
due to the interaction of physical, hormonal, psychological and social factors
involved in the process of transition to becoming a parent. At this time of huge
adjustment, women with previous vulnerabilities may become unwell or
experience in a particularly intense way the fluctuating emotions associated with pregnancy.
Also, women and their treating doctors may decide to cease psychotropic
medication for all or part of the pregnancy to protect the foetus. Women with a past history of psychiatric or ongoing personality difficulties require close
monitoring and support during pregnancy, and rapid referral for assessment and intervention if difficulties arise. A past history of psychosis, bipolar illness or severe depression must not be ignored.