It is estimated that 20% to 30% of all women in this country have experienced a psychiatric disorder in the last 12 months and that women of childbearing age have even higher rates than older women. There are no figures on prevalence in pregnancy. Yet, single diagnosis studies indicate serious consequences of these disorders to the infant. Depression triples the rate of low birth weight births while schizophrenia is associated with twice the infant mortality of non-ill mothers. Using a cross-sectional, retrospective design we have evaluated 550 pregnant women stratified by race and urban/rural residence who were recruited through WIC nutrition sites. A standardized psychiatric interview (DIS-IV) determined lifetime and current diagnosis of 15 disorders. Preliminary data (n=253) indicate 38% have a lifetime psychiatric disorder and 31% a current disorder. The most prevalent disorders are Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Affective Disorders and Nicotine Dependence. We will report prevalence by disorder for the 550 pregnant women and compare these data to figures for other populations.
Learning Objectives: 1. Recognize the impact of psychiatric disorder on infant birth outcomes 2. Describe the most prevalent psychiatric disorders in low-income urban and rural pregnant women 3. Compare rates of psychiatric disorders in pregnant women with rates for other populations
Keywords: Psychiatric Epidemiology, Pregnancy
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Supported with NIMH funding
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Grant funding from NIMH