Psychotropic Polypharmacy During Pregnancy

"Psychiatric disorders are the most common conditions affecting women of childbearing age1,2. The prevalence of psychiatric disorders has increased, with recent data indicating that approximately 30% of women in developed countries are affected2, and estimates place the prevalence of psychiatric disorders during pregnancy at approximately 20%3,4,5,6. This trend has led to more pregnancies complicated by psychiatric disorders, presenting serious challenges in clinical practice3,5,7. Numerous reports show that such pregnancies are associated with an increased risk of obstetric complications, such as gestational hypertension and diabetes, and adverse neonatal outcomes, such as preterm delivery and low birth weight1,2,6,7.

"Pregnancy is a period of heightened psychological vulnerability characterized by a higher risk of mental instability2,3. During the postpartum period, maternal psychiatric instability may adversely affect child development through neglect and abuse. To mitigate these risks, many pregnant women with psychiatric disorders require pharmacological interventions, often involving multiple psychotropic medications2,7,8. The proportion of psychotropic polytherapy continues to rise and 70–80% of exposed women received antipsycotics in polytherapy8."