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Aspects of Perinatal Psychiatric Illness

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 January 2018

Dewi B. Pritchard  and
Brian Harris
Dewi B. Pritchard
Affiliation:
Whitchurch Hospital, Cardiff
Brian Harris*
Affiliation:
Whitchurch Hospital, Cardiff
*
Dr Brian Harris, Whitchurch Hospital, Park Road, Whitchurch, Cardiff CF4 7XB
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Abstract

Background

In view of the current changes in the National Health Service, it was considered an opportune time to review the literature on perinatal psychiatric illness.

Method

A systematic review was undertaken of relevant articles on medline, ClinPsych and Excerpta Medica Psychiatry.

Results

Sixty-eight articles were used in the review.

Conclusions

Developments in the field of perinatal psychiatry include a greater understanding of the nosology and aetiology of the conditions, the effect of maternal illness on the child as well as transcultural factors. The perspective of the individual sufferer has been somewhat ignored. New treatments with both pharmacotherapy and hormones are emerging, but perhaps the greatest current challenge is to adapt our management strategies to community care.

Type
Review Article
Information
The British Journal of Psychiatry , Volume 169 , Issue 5 , November 1996 , pp. 555 - 562
Copyright
Copyright © Royal College of Psychiatrists, 1996 

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