PSYCHIATRIC EMERGENCIES

Known psychiatric conditions can coexist with pregnancy. Other psychia tric disorders possibly result from the physiologic changes of pregnan cy. In emergent cases, organic disease processes should be considered prior to psychotropic intervention. Although some psychiatric conditio ns cannot be cured, appropriate selection of therapy could facilitate successful pregnancy outcome. Pregnancy does not impart immunity from suicide or domestic violence. Physicians providing care for pregnant w omen should understand the need for screening for physical abuse.