Women's mental health: a "wish-list" for the DSM V

Abstract

This article highlights four areas of mental health affecting women in the reproductive age group which, in the author's opinion, are poorly dealt with in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fourth Edition (DSM IV) (American Psychiatric Association 1994). These are depression occurring during pregnancy; childbirth-related post-traumatic stress disorder; disorders of parent-to-infant attachment and perinatal bereavement. It is suggested that, if these could be better addressed in the forthcoming DSM V, this would provide a very significant impetus for improved education of health professionals, as well as better recognition and earlier intervention in these disorders. As these are relatively common disorders, a very large number of women and their families would potentially benefit.