An overview of somatic treatment of psychosis during pregnancy and postpartum.

Treatment and management of the psychotic pregnant patient is insufficiently covered by most standard texts and the current literature. To date, there are no controlled studies on the efficacy of different therapeutic modalities during pregnancy. Medications that have proved effective in the treatment of the various psychoses are not without added risk for the pregnant patient. However, there is no effective medical treatment without attendant risk. Although the psychotic pregnant patient presents a therapeutic dilemma, these patients can be effectively treated by a program that allows for flexibility and innovation within the framework of sound conservative medical practice. Professional territorial difficulties can be avoided by a unified effort.