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The Care Experiences of Pregnant Women With Serious Mental Illness: A Scoping Review [Formula: see text]

  • 0Ariel Hill-Thomas, BSN, RN, Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Nursing, Richmond, USA.
Journal of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association +

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June 14, 2025

Abstract

BACKGROUND

Serious mental illness (SMI) in pregnancy is a public health concern due to associated poor maternal-child outcomes. There is a gap in the literature about the healthcare experiences of pregnant women with SMI and the experiences of providers who care for this population. The purpose of this scoping review is to examine the current state of the science regarding the experiences of pregnant women with SMI and the experiences of providers when treating this population.

AIMS

The aim of this review was to fill a knowledge gap that is needed to facilitate paradigm shifts in the treatment of pregnant women with SMI.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic search for published, peer-reviewed, English-language literature addressing the experiences of pregnant women with SMI receiving care and the experiences of those providing care to the population. The databases searched were OVID MEDLINE, Embase (OVID), CINAHL, PsycINFO (EBSCO), and Sociological Abstracts (ProQuest).

RESULTS

Sixteen qualitative and mixed-method articles focused on pregnant women with SMI were included in this review. Key themes emerged regarding patients' desire for specialized providers for treatment, preparedness in pregnancy, access to quality guidance and information, special attention to issues/concerns, guidance in medication, and care integration. Providers reported a desire for better interdisciplinary communication and specialized knowledge and expertise regarding SMI.

CONCLUSIONS

This review provides insight into areas where interprofessional collaboration can be vital in helping improve health outcomes; however, more research is needed surrounding the perspectives of providers and their support and resources when treating this population.

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