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Bipolar disorder: Implications and guidelines for midwifery practice

Abstract:

Research suggests that potentially 2-2.5% of childbearing women in New Zealand may be affected by bipolar disorder; a psychiatric illness characterized by acute alterations in mood. It is therefore probable that midwives will provide care for women affected by this illness. This article examines the incidence of bipolar disorder and the implications for midwifery practice and maternity care provision in New Zealand. Guidelines are proposed for midwives, who provide care for women affected by this disorder during pregnancy, labour and the postpartum period. Maternal, fetal, and neonatal implications of standard pharmacological therapy for bipolar disorder are presented in tabular format.

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bipolar disorder, psychiatric illness