The Journal of clinical psychiatry
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Family and partner psychopathology characterizes 2 different types of potential risk factors for mental disorders linked to both biological and psychosocial processes, and no studies have included both variables in a study of risk of postpartum mental disorders (PPMD). The aim was to assess how a history of mental disorders in either a first-degree family member or partner affects the risk of admission or outpatient contact with PPMD. ⋯ Results indicated that family psychopathology represents a particular risk in the immediate postpartum period, especially if a family member suffers from bipolar affective disorder compared to other diagnostic groups. However, additional studies are needed to establish if partner psychopathology is a risk factor for PPMD specifically or has a more general influence on risk of mental disorders throughout pregnancy and postpartum.