Postpartum Relapse in Patients with Bipolar Disorder
Javier Conejo-Galindo1,2, Alejandro Sanz-Giancola3, Miguel Ángel Álvarez-Mon4,5,6
1Psychiatry Department, Institute of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, 28007 Madrid, Spain.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
|July 27, 2022
Summary
The postpartum period presents a high risk for bipolar disorder (BD) relapse, affecting over 36% of women. Early detection and mood-stabilizing treatment are crucial during this critical time.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive psychiatry
- Mood disorders
- Perinatal mental health
Background:
- Pregnancy and postpartum are periods of increased vulnerability for bipolar disorder (BD) decompensation.
- Maternal mental health is critical for both mother and child well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the literature on postpartum relapse rates in women with bipolar disorder.
- To highlight the critical nature of the postpartum period for BD management.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted using PRISMA guidelines across public electronic medical databases.
- Studies reporting postpartum relapse in patients diagnosed with BD (DSM or ICD criteria) were included.
Main Results:
- Sixteen articles encompassing 6064 deliveries from 3977 women were analyzed.
- The overall risk of postpartum relapse was found to be 36.77%.
- Significant heterogeneity was noted in study methodologies, diagnostic criteria, BD type differentiation, and sample origins.
Conclusions:
- The postpartum period is a critical phase with a very high rate of bipolar disorder relapse.
- Prompt detection of decompensation and evaluation of mood-stabilizing treatments are essential due to the concentrated risk within a short timeframe.
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