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Toronto, Canada – A new study published in Neurology reveals that women with multiple sclerosis (MS) face a significantly higher risk of developing mental health conditions during and after pregnancy compared to those with other chronic illnesses.
Researchers analyzed data from over 890,000 births in Ontario, Canada, finding that 8% of women with MS experienced a new mental health issue during pregnancy, a figure that surged to 14% within the first year postpartum. Depression and anxiety were the most common conditions reported.
The study compared women with MS to those with epilepsy, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, and those without these conditions. Results showed a 33% higher likelihood of mental illness in the first year postpartum for women with MS compared to other groups.
“Our findings emphasize the need for enhanced mental health screening and early intervention strategies for women with MS during this critical period,” stated lead author Dr. Ruth Ann Marrie.
Key Findings:
- Women with MS had a 26% higher incidence of mental illness during pregnancy and a 33% higher risk in the first year postpartum compared to women without MS.
- Mental illness affected 42% of women with MS during pregnancy and 50% in the first year after birth, compared to 30% and 38% respectively in women without MS.
- 1% of women with MS experienced psychosis, and nearly 6% developed substance use disorders within a year of childbirth.
While the study highlights the elevated risk for women with MS, it also underscores the broader need for improved mental health support for all women with chronic conditions during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Limitations:
The study acknowledges that the data may underestimate the true burden of mental illness as it relies on healthcare service utilization, meaning conditions not requiring medical attention might be missed.
Future Research:
Further research is crucial to understand how the severity and activity of MS may influence mental health outcomes during this period and to develop effective care strategies to support the mental well-being of mothers with MS.
This research provides valuable insights into the unique mental health challenges faced by women with MS during pregnancy and postpartum. It emphasizes the importance of proactive mental health care for this vulnerable population.
