Studies of reproduction among individuals with schizophrenia published in this century are reviewed. Past studies suggesting normalization of reproductive deficits are disputed in view of recent reports of a persistent impairment. The handicap appears to be more significant among men with schizophrenia. The implications of these findings for genetic research in schizophrenia are discussed.

PIP:

This article reviews studies investigating reproduction in schizophrenia, with an emphasis being placed on those conducted in the last 50 years. The study was focused on two related phenomena, namely the ability to procreate (fertility) and the number of offspring produced by an individual (fecundity). The majority of these studies showed an increased rate of celibacy, a decreased number of offspring, and an increased number of childless individuals among patients. Another study conducted indicated a trend towards rising fertility rates among schizophrenic patients. Past studies suggesting normalization of reproductive deficits are disputed in view of recent reports of a persistent impairment. The handicap appears to be more significant among men with schizophrenia. The studies conducted revealed several inconsistencies, specifically regarding to the measurement of fecundity such as the total reduction rate (TRR). The inconsistencies may have arisen because many of the studies undertaken did not take into account one or more factors which influences procreation among the patients, such as socioeconomic status, ethnicity, divorce rates, illegitimate births, intelligence, and time of assessment in relation to the onset of illness.