An update on medication management of women with schizophrenia in pregnancy

Introduction: Women with schizophrenia and their babies are at high risk of adverse outcomes in pregnancy and childbirth. A better understanding of the specific risks conferred by the illness itself and by the treatment provided will help guide more effective care of these women.

Areas covered: Herein, the authors review genetic, demographic, socioeconomic, nutritional and lifestyle risks associated with schizophrenia in pregnancy. They also cover specific risks associated with typical antipsychotic medications, specific risks associated with atypical antipsychotic medications, risks associated with polypharmacy and risks of developmental delay in children exposed to antipsychotic medications in utero.

Expert opinion: Our understanding of the risks that women with schizophrenia face in pregnancy from their illness and from the treatment they receive continues to evolve. As our ability to analyze data progresses, the risks conferred by antipsychotic medication treatment appear to lessen in clinical and statistical significance, whilst the true risks to these women and their babies from their experience of disadvantage continue to set them aside from the general population. Reducing polypharmacy and providing comprehensive and supportive care can minimize harm to women with schizophrenia and their babies.