Psychosis and Schizophrenia in Pregnancy and Motherhood

Psychosis and Schizophrenia in Pregnancy and Motherhood

This lecture comments on the powerful influence of hormonal changes and other factors associated with pregnancy and child birth on the mental stability of some women. Psychosis and Schizophrenia in pregnancy and motherhood and the implications to pregnancy are discussed. Hallucinations and delusions are defined. The importance of remaining non-judgemental and empathetic towards the woman and an attitude of unconditional positive regard to ensure the safe care of pregnant woman with mental illness conclude this brief and informative lecture.

This session will cover concepts such as:

• Hormonal changes and other factors associated with pregnancy.
• Psychosis and schizophrenia in pregnancy and motherhood.
• Non-judgemental and empathetic care.
• Unconditional positive regard and safe care of pregnant woman with mental illness.

Speaker: Finbar Hopkins

Finbar Hopkins is a Lecturer in the Centre for Psychiatric Nursing at the University of Melbourne, Australia. In addition to being a registered general nurse, midwife and psychiatric nurse, her post-graduate qualifications include a Graduate Diploma in Women’s Health and a Master of Women’s Studies. In her current PhD. Studies, Finbar is examining some psychosocial aspects of pregnant mothers.

Recorded: 17th March 2011
Duration of session: 15 mins
Conference: Skills for Modern Midwives
Session in conferene: When Mental Illness is the Problem
Location of conference: Melbourne, Australia

Professional Reviews:

Useful information for Midwives to assist with the empathetic unconditional regard for women with mental illness to ensure safe care during pregnany and postnatally to help lower the associated increased risk of adverse outcomes.