A gender approach in prodromes of psychosis

Abstract

Background

Only 21% of patients included in the South of Granada's First Episodes Program in the year 2014 were women. Studies do not use to focus on sex differences at first-episode samples and it can be masking some relevant variables in this population.

Aims

In this exploratory study, we aim to focus on gynaecological consultations during the period of untreated psychosis (DUP) at first episodes of psychosis in women.

Methods

A retrospective clinical-cases review of medical histories was made searching for sociodemographic variables, consultations during DUP and psychotic prodromal outcomes.

Results

The average age of the sample was 23 years. The average of DUP was one to three months. Sixty percent of referees to mental health services were from primary care and 20% from emergency services. The main symptom was persecutory or prejudice delusions. Thirty-six percent of them were related to sexuality or pregnancy. In most cases, the demands were not bizarre. When a wide history was made and they were properly explored, a delusional theme was appreciated and the reason for consultation was not justified. Eg. Postcoital pill order for not taking precautions, in a telepathic relationship. Forty percent of claims were made in primary care. Half of them were assessed by a gynecologyst. Sixty percent were treated in the emergency room.

Conclusions

We conclude that these data are relevant for specialists. Both for efficient resource management and for early detection of incipient psychosis. Gynecological abnormal demands are common in consultations to health services for specific malaise during the period of untreated psychosis.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.