Preconception care for women with mental illness

Abstract

Preconception care refers to health management initiatives for future pregnancy. Lifestyle habits such as maintaining appropriate weight, quitting smoking, and abstaining from alcohol contribute to having a healthier child. Evidence shows that antipsychotics and antidepressants do not affect fetal malformations or development. Valproate should not be prescribed to bipolar patients with childbearing potential as it increases the risk of fetal abnormalities and impacts development. While lithium carbonate requires caution, doses of 600mg/day or less have not shown increased risks. Sharing this information and discussing future pregnancy plans with patients and their families can help them approach pregnancy with confidence.