ABSTRACT
We sought to identify whether schizophrenia during pregnancy is associated with adverse
perinatal outcomes. A population-based study comparing women with and without schizophrenia
and schizoaffective disorders was performed. Stratified analysis using multiple logistic
regression models was performed to control for confounders. During the study period,
there were 186,554 deliveries, of which 97 occurred in patients with schizophrenia
and schizoaffective disorders. The schizophrenic patients were significantly older
(mean age 30.6 versus 28.6, p = 0.001), with higher prevalence of diabetes mellitus as compared with the comparison
group (13.4% versus 6.7%, p = 0.009). The need for induction and augmentation of delivery, congenital malformations,
and low birth weight (<2500 g) were significantly increased among schizophrenic patients.
No significant differences were noted between the groups regarding labor complications
such as cesarean delivery (16.5% versus 13.2%, p = 0.337) and placenta previa and placental abruption (1% versus 4%, p = 0.333 and 1% versus 0.7%, p = 0.51, respectively). Using a multivariable logistic regression model, schizophrenia
and schizoaffective disorders during pregnancy were independent risk factors for congenital
malformations (odds ratio 2.1; 95% confidence interval, 1.1 to 3.9, p = 0.027). Schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorders are independent risk factors
for congenital malformations.
KEYWORDS
Schizophrenia - schizoaffective disorders - congenital malformations - pregnancy outcome
REFERENCES
sheiner@bgu.ac.il
