ADHD Medication and Pregnancy
Psychiatrists often encounter women who are trying to conceive or are expecting and worried about the effects of their ADHD medication on their child. The good news is that Research suggests that, on balance, it is safe to continue taking stimulant drugs during pregnancy.
The findings are based upon naturalistic studies that include a large sample of first-trimester exposures.
Pregnancy
Women are excited about being pregnant and the birth of a baby However, they might be concerned about how their ADHD medication will affect their child's birth. These medications are known to have potential negative teratogenic effects. Some doctors recommend that patients stop taking their medication when trying to conceive or during the first trimester of pregnancy. Many people with ADHD need their medication in order to function, and they may have difficulty with it without it.
A recent study in Denmark discovered that the exposure to methylphenidate in the first trimester (in the form of a prescription redeemed) does not appear to increase risk of major malformations as compared to a group of control subjects without prescriptions that were redeemed in the first trimester of pregnancy. The study used registry information from Danish databases to identify pregnant woman and their medication history as well as whether they were treated for ADHD.
The researchers monitored a total of 898 babies born to mothers who were exposed to methylphenidate or other stimulants in the first trimester of pregnancy. They were compared to 1,270 babies in the control group who were not exposed to methylphenidate or other stimulant medications during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Both infant groups were screened for neurodevelopmental disorders of the psychiatric kind, other neurodevelopmental impairments growth impairments, fetal heart issues (such as gastroschisis, omphalocele, or transverse limb deficiency). The results showed that babies of women exposed to methylphenidate during pregnancy did not have increased rates of any of these conditions compared to the controls. This was the case for both the first and second trimesters of pregnancy.
This is a positive result that can provide comfort to pregnant women who are taking ADHD medication and may want or need to continue their treatment throughout the pregnancy. This study did not evaluate the effects of lifestyle changes or other medications on a pregnant fetus. Other studies have shown that there is a link between stimulant medications and adverse pregnancy outcomes such as a caesarean birth or a baby needing assistance to breathe during birth.
Breastfeeding
Many women who have ADD or ADHD discover that breastfeeding is beneficial for their baby, even when they need to take medication to manage their symptoms. It is crucial that both the mother and baby are well-nourished, and the decision to breastfeed or take ADHD medication should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional. The most up-to-date guidelines and evidence1 suggest that women do not have to stop breastfeeding in order to take her prescribed medication. Numerous studies have proven that the neurodevelopmental effects on the infant's long-term health are minimal when a mother is taking her ADHD medication according to the prescription.
Stimulants such as methylphenidate and dexamfetamine are commonly used to treat ADHD. They are available in two forms: immediate-release which lasts for four hours; and extended release, which is taken once daily in the morning and can last for up to 16 hours. see this with ADD or ADHD find the best way to manage their symptoms is to take an extended-release medication in the evening or afternoon and then supplement it with an immediate-release tablet.
Certain medications are not suitable for breastfeeding, like Clonidine, which decreases prolactin production and reduces production of milk. Certain people suffering from ADD and ADHD aren't ready to stop breastfeeding for this reason, and so they choose to switch to a different stimulant. These drugs are less likely to have high RIDs and may be covered under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. If you are thinking about changing your medication during pregnancy or nursing it is essential to consult a GP or specialist. adhd and medication can offer advice on the safest medication and how to monitor the infant's growth and weight. The doctor or specialist can assist in referring to a psychologist or psychiatrist for further assistance. They can also refer you to a dietitian for help with nutrition and diet.
Postpartum
During pregnancy, the female body goes through enormous hormonal, physical and emotional changes. For some women, the transition to parenthood can be a time of great joy, excitement and love, but also frustration or sadness. This is normal, and it's important to get help from relatives or her doctor and/or mental health experts if the mother is struggling.
Being a mother can be thrilling and a little overwhelming but there's no reason the new mom should feel as if she must do it by herself. Finding the right balance is challenging, but it can be helped by allowing yourself to rest, getting enough sleep and eating well. You should also go to your postpartum check-ups, as they can spot any potential issues early.
Some women experience a brief bout of depression or anxiety after the birth of their child. This is known as the "baby blues." This is a very common occurrence and tends to disappear by itself within a week or two. Certain people experience symptoms that are more severe and last for longer. This is known as postpartum depression disorder and is a treatable condition. If a woman had depression or anxiety in the past it is more likely to suffer from it again after giving birth.
In certain instances, a woman can develop postpartum psychosis that is very dangerous for the mother and the child. This is a psychiatric crisis that should be treated promptly. Treatment can consist of an amalgamation of medication and therapy. A therapist who has expertise in this illness can be very beneficial. If the symptoms are severe electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) could be suggested.
In the case of an episode of postpartum psychiasis in a mother who is pregnant, the doctor will likely prescribe an antipsychotic medication such as lithium or Valproate and a mood stabilizer such as citalopram. They might also suggest cognitive behavioral therapy to treat the root cause of the problem. Tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine or nortriptyline are sometimes employed, but they can cause difficult side effects and are usually only prescribed when other medications have not worked.
Adolescence
Adolescence is a crucial time for cognitive, physical, and psychosocial growth. It involves a shift from dependence on parents to independence in making decisions and acting in the world around them. Adolescents begin to consider expanding their social circle beyond the immediate family, to include their friends, peers and acquaintances. Their social networks could also include people from team activities, student organizations, or jobs.
As we grow older, the changes in brain structure and connectivity interact with increasing knowledge, experience, and changing social demands which result in rapid cognitive development. This includes improvements in selective and divided focus (the ability to concentrate on several stimuli at the same time) as well as working memory and long-term memory. In addition adolescents' ability to think abstractly and morally improves.
These cognitive changes are accompanied by hormonal changes that make adolescents more attracted by new and intense experiences. The hormones in their bodies also trigger them to look for experiences that increase their status in the public's eyes. This urge to explore new experiences can be used to benefit others, for example by participating in a school performance. It can be used to take healthy risk for example, like investigating sexuality or other risky behaviors when they are in a safe and secure environment.
Variable rates of physical development may lead to awkward stages of appearance during adolescence, and also feelings of self-consciousness and anxiety about the changes in their bodies. In some traditions, such as those of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, adolescents could be a time when young people begin to establish their place in relation to their families, clans, nations, ancestors and their country.
Relationships between teens and their friends could be a source for support or conflict. These relationships are important for the health of adolescents and can have a significant impact on their happiness and wellbeing. Relationships between adolescents and their parents can be a great source of support for them, especially if they are able to work out problems in a non-confrontational fashion.