Reproductive and Fertility Care of Women with Schizophrenia: A Narrative Review

Women with schizophrenia have specific reproductive and fertility care needs that differ from those of men. This narrative review aims to explore the reproductive and fertility care needs of women with schizophrenia related to fertility, menstrual cycle, family planning, and the perinatal period. Hormonal fluctuations in the menstrual cycle can significantly affect clinical symptoms and the efficacy of contraceptive treatments in women with schizophrenia. When undergoing fertility treatment, attention should be given to the potential interactions between fertility treatment drugs and antipsychotics, as well as the potential impact of antipsychotics on the ability to conceive. Although pregnancy rates and participation in fertility programs have increased among women with schizophrenia, very little information is available on the safety and efficacy of fertility treatments in women with severe psychotic disorders. This is an area that warrants further study. Mobilizing social supports and optimizing medication are important components of the treatment of schizophrenia in the perinatal period and are important for the health and safety of infants and mothers. In conclusion, preventing relapse and promoting physical and mental health in this group of women during successive reproductive periods of life is vital and requires an emphasis on the social and psychiatric context, as well as the biological changes occurring at these times.