ADHD Medication and Pregnancy
Psychiatrists are often approached by women who are trying to get the birth of a child or are pregnant and are concerned about the negative effects of their ADHD medication. The good news is that research suggests that it is safe to take stimulant drugs during pregnancy.
The results are based on naturalistic studies that comprised many first-trimester presentations.
Pregnancy
The birth of a baby and pregnancy are exciting times for women, however many are concerned about the impact of their ADHD medication on their child who is yet to be born. Some doctors advise their patients to not take stimulant drugs during pregnancy or when trying to get pregnant. Many people with ADHD require medication to function, and they may have difficulty in this time without it.
A recent study in Denmark found that exposure to methylphenidate during the first trimester (in the form of a prescription redeemed) does not appear to increase the risk of major malformations as compared to a group that did not have prescriptions redeemed during the first trimester of pregnancy. The study used registry data from Danish databases to determine the gender of the pregnant women and their medication history and whether they had been treated for ADHD.
The researchers monitored a total of 898 babies born to mothers who were exposed to methylphenidate and other stimulants during the first trimester of pregnancy. They were compared with 1,270 babies in the control group that did not receive any stimulant medication or methylphenidate in the first trimester pregnancy.
Both infant groups were examined for neurodevelopmental disorders of the psychiatric kind, other neurodevelopmental impairments growth impairments, as well as fetal heart issues (such as gastroschisis, omphalocele or transverse limb deficiency). The results showed that babies born to women who were exposed to methylphenidate during pregnancy didn't show any increased rates when as compared to controls. This was the case for both the first and second trimesters of pregnancy.
This is a promising outcome that could be a source of comfort for pregnant women who are taking ADHD medication and may want or require treatment throughout their pregnancy. This study did not assess the effects of lifestyle changes or other medications on the foetus. Other studies have revealed that there is a link between stimulant medications and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as a caesarean birth or the baby needing help to breathe at birth.
Breastfeeding
Even when women with ADD or ADHD need to take medication to manage their symptoms, they find that breastfeeding benefits their baby. It is crucial that the mother and child are well-nourished. Therefore, the choice to breastfeed or take ADHD medication should be taken in consultation with a health care provider. Based on the most recent guidelines and research1 women don't have to stop breastfeeding to take the prescribed medication. Numerous studies have proven that long-term neurodevelopmental effects for the baby are not significant in the event that the mother takes her ADHD medications according to the prescription.
Stimulants like methylphenidate and dexamfetamine are commonly used to treat ADHD. They are available in immediate-release form that lasts up to four hours and extended-release formulations which are taken twice a day in the morning, and may last up to 16 hours. Many people with ADD or ADHD find that the best method to manage their symptoms is to take extended-release medications in the evening or afternoon, and then supplement it with a tablet that is immediate-release.
Certain medications are not compatible with breastfeeding, for example, clonidine, a drug that reduces prolactin production and reduces milk production. Some people suffering from ADD and ADHD don't want to stop nursing due to this reason, so they choose to switch to a different stimulant medication. These drugs have lower RIDs and are more likely to be covered under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. If you can check here are considering changing your medication during pregnancy or breastfeeding it is crucial to consult a GP or specialist. They can offer guidance on the most safest medications and how to monitor your infant's growth and weight. The GP or specialist can also help with the referral to a psychiatrist or psychologist for further assistance. They may also refer you a dietitian to assist with managing diet and nutrition.
Postpartum
During pregnancy the female body experiences massive emotional, physical and hormonal changes. The transition to motherhood can be a time of great excitement, joy, and love, but also frustration and anxiety for some women. This is normal and it is crucial that the new mother gets assistance from her family and her health care provider, and/or an expert in mental health in case she is struggling.
Being a mother can be exciting and overwhelming, however there's no reason mothers should feel that she's by herself. Finding the right balance can be difficult however, you can assist yourself by taking time to rest and sleep well. It is also important to schedule your postpartum checkups as they will be able to spot any potential problems early on.
The "baby blues" is an expression used to describe a brief period during which some women feel anxiety or depression after the birth of their child. This is a fairly common condition and will usually disappear on its own within one or two weeks. However for some, the feelings can become more serious and last longer. This is called postpartum depressive disorder, and it is a condition that can be treated. If a woman has had anxiety or depression before it, she is at a higher risk of developing it after the birth of her baby.
In some cases women may develop postpartum psychosis, which is very dangerous for the mother and child. It is a psychiatric emergency and should be treated immediately. The treatment could include a combination of therapy and medication. A therapist who has experience with this illness can be very helpful. If the symptoms are severe electroconvulsive (ECT) therapy is suggested.
In the case of a mother who is having postpartum psychosis, her doctor is likely to prescribe an antipsychotic medication like lithium or valproate as well as an antidepressant such as citalopram. They may also suggest the use of cognitive-behavioral therapy to help with the root causes. Tricyclic antidepressants, such as nortriptyline and imipramine are often prescribed, but they can have serious side effects. They are usually only prescribed if other drugs have failed.
Adolescence
Adolescence is a crucial period of physical, cognitive and psychosocial growth. It requires a transition from dependence on parents to independence in making decisions and deciding how to act in the world around them. Adolescents begin to consider expanding their social circle beyond their immediate family to include their peers, friends, and acquaintances. Their social networks may also include members of teams in sports, student groups or jobs.
As we grow older, the changes in brain structure and connectivity occur in conjunction with the increase in knowledge, experience, and changing social demands and results in rapid cognitive development. This includes improvements in selective and divided focus (the ability to focus on multiple things at the same time) and working memory and long-term memory. In addition, adolescents' capacity to think abstractly and morally also improves.
These cognitive changes are coupled with hormonal changes that make teenagers more attracted to novel and exciting experiences. The hormones in their bodies also cause them to seek out experiences that elevate their status to other individuals. This desire for new experiences can be utilized in positive ways for example, by trying out for an upcoming school play or getting involved in a volunteer activity for the community. It is also a way to take a healthy risk for example, like investigating sexuality or other risky behaviors, provided they are in a supportive and safe environment.
Different rates of physical development can result in awkward phases of appearance during adolescence, as well as feelings of self-consciousness or anxiety over their body changes. In certain cultures, like those of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, adolescence can be a time where young people discover their place in relation to their clans, their families and their countries as well as their ancestors and their country.
Teens' relationships with friends can be a source of strength or conflict during this time. The quality of these relationships is vital for the wellbeing of adolescents and can be a major factor in their happiness and well-being. Relationships between adolescents and their parents can be a wonderful source of support for them, especially if they are able to work out problems in a non-confrontational manner.