[Perinatal mental health care for mothers with schizophrenia in Flanders; where are we still short?]

BACKGROUND

Only 0.8% of the admissions to our mother-baby unit are mothers with schizophrenia, while about half of the patients with schizophrenia become mothers. Mothers with schizophrenia are more likely to live in complex problematic settings and, thereby, more frequently lose custody of their children. Also, they experience stigma against their parenting skills. Literature research shows that they therefore avoid care. However, the inclusion of their role as a mother can contribute to recovery, giving meaning and social integration.<br/> AIM: To initiate debate on responsible motherhood in women with schizophrenia with the aim of optimizing the Flemish care provision and give an incentive towards more scientific research.<br/> METHOD: Consultation of the minimal psychiatric data (mpd) on our mother-baby unit. Narrative literature search using PubMed with a focus on schizophrenia in the peripartum.<br/> RESULTS: Mothers who suffer from schizophrenia are more likely to experience difficulties in social cognition and sensitivity to their children. These problems can make the relationship between mother and baby more difficult. However, this does not exclude the possibility of developing a positive attachment relationship.<br/> CONCLUSION: A persistent case manager-driven care model, which monitors the care for this vulnerable population and focuses on reinforcing the parenting qualities, looks promising. As a result, (shared) responsible motherhood could have a positive impact on their recovery.