Diabesity and Perinatal Mental Health: Evidence-based Recommendations for Screening and Intervention

Area of Science:

• Reproductive medicine
• Perinatal health
• Mental health research

Background:

• Perinatal mental illness, obesity, and diabetes mellitus are increasingly prevalent complications.
• These conditions often co-occur, creating complex health challenges for expectant and new mothers.
• Understanding the interplay between "diabesity" and mental health is crucial for effective perinatal care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the prevalence of comorbid "diabesity" and mental illness in the perinatal period.
• To explore the psychosocial and pathophysiological links between these conditions.
• To provide recommendations for screening and adapted mental health treatment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current research on perinatal "diabesity" and mental illness.
• Analysis of existing screening guidelines and treatment protocols.
• Synthesis of evidence regarding psychosocial and pathophysiological relationships.

Main Results:

• High prevalence of co-occurring "diabesity" and mental illness in the perinatal population.
• Identified psychosocial factors and pathophysiological pathways linking these conditions.
• Gaps in current screening and treatment guidelines for this comorbidity.

Conclusions:

• Integrated care models are needed to address "diabesity" and mental illness concurrently.
• Screening protocols should be adapted to identify at-risk individuals.
• Future research should focus on tailored interventions and long-term outcomes.