U. Albert, F. Bogetto, G. Maina, L. Ravizza - Vol. 5, Marzo1999, num.1
Testo Bibliografia Summary Riassunto Indice
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in pregnancy and puerperium
While the relationship between obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and pregnancy/delivery has been thoroughly dealt within the context of the relationship linking onset to stressful life events, studies specifically focusing on OCD and maternity are still scanty and methodologically heterogeneous. This paper reviews studies focusing on the OCD-maternity relationship. Some interesting data emerge; OCD related to birth of a child represents a considerable proportion of total female OCD cases. Hormonal changes occurring during pregnancy and, most importantly, during the puerperium, involve estrogens, progesterone, oxytocin and prolactin. In view of the influence of these hormones on serotonergic transmission, which is believed to be altered in OCD, such hormonal changes should be taken into account more carefully to better understand the mechanisms underlying obsessive-compulsive phenomena.