Overview
Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders affect individuals during pregnancy and the first year postpartum 1. Bipolar disorder (BD) during pregnancy is characterized by mood shifts and can negatively impact maternal and fetal health 2.
Diagnosis
Identification and screening for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders are recommended for all pregnant and postpartum individuals 1.Management
Treatment and referral for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders are essential to improve patient care 1.
Bipolar disorder during pregnancy is associated with increased risks of birth defects (e.g., microcephaly, CNS problems, small for gestational age) and congenital anomalies 2.
Obstetric complications in pregnant individuals with bipolar disorder may include gestational hypertension, preterm labor, need for assisted delivery, and hospital readmission 2.Special Populations
Pregnancy: Perinatal mood and anxiety disorders are a focus for pregnant and postpartum individuals 1. Bipolar disorder during pregnancy poses risks to both maternal and fetal health 2.Key Recommendations
Healthcare providers should identify and assist pregnant and postpartum patients with perinatal mental illness, including mood and anxiety disorders 1. (Evidence: Expert opinion)
Open dialogue and evidence-informed care for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders are crucial for improving patient care 1. (Evidence: Expert opinion)
Bipolar disorder during pregnancy negatively affects mothers and fetuses, increasing the risk of certain birth defects and obstetric complications 2. (Evidence: Moderate)References
1 Shea A, Jumah NA, Forte M, Cantin C, Bayrampour H, Butler K et al.. Guideline No. 454: Identification and Treatment of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders. Journal of obstetrics and gynaecology Canada : JOGC = Journal d'obstetrique et gynecologie du Canada : JOGC 2024. link
2 Mohamed MA, Elhelbawy A, Khalid M, AbdAllatif LA, Lialy HE. Effects of bipolar disorder on maternal and fetal health during pregnancy: a systematic review. BMC pregnancy and childbirth 2023. link