ADHD Medication and Pregnancy
Psychiatrists often encounter women who are trying to conceive or who are pregnant and worried about the effects of their ADHD medication on their child. The good news is that research suggests that it is safe to take stimulant medications throughout pregnancy.
The findings are based upon naturalistic studies using a vast sample of first-trimester exposures.
Pregnancy
Women are thrilled about the pregnancy and the birth of the baby However, they might be concerned about the way their ADHD medication will affect their unborn child. Some physicians recommend to their patients to stop taking stimulant medications during pregnancy or when trying to conceive. However, many people with ADHD require the advantages of their medication to be able to function in their daily lives and may struggle without it during this time.
A study conducted in Denmark recently found that exposure to methylphenidate within the first trimester (in the form a redeemable medication) did not seem to increase the risk of developing major malformations in comparison to the control group who did not receive redeemed medications during the first trimester. The study used registry-based information from various Danish databases to determine the number of pregnant women and their medication history prior to and during pregnancy, including information on whether the woman was treated for ADHD.
The researchers tracked 898 babies born to mothers exposed to methylphenidate or other stimulants in the initial trimester of pregnancy. adhd medications were compared to 1,270 babies in the control group that were not exposed to stimulant medication, such as methylphenidate, in the first trimester of pregnancy.
Both groups of babies underwent an extensive assessment of abnormalities in the fetal heart, such as gastroschisis or Omphalocele. The results revealed that infants born to mothers who were exposed to methylphenidate in pregnancy did not show any increased rates when compared with controls. This was true for the first and second pregnancy trimesters.
This is a promising result that could be a source of comfort for pregnant women who are taking ADHD medication and may want or require treatment throughout pregnancy. This study did not assess the effects of lifestyle changes or other medications on the pregnant fetus. Other studies have demonstrated the connection between stimulant medications and adverse pregnancy outcomes such as a caesarean birth, or the baby needing assistance to breathe upon birth.
Breastfeeding
Even if women suffering from ADD or ADHD require medication to control their symptoms, they find that breastfeeding is beneficial for their child. It is important that the mother and child are well-nourished, and the decision to breastfeed or use ADHD medication should be made in consultation with a health care provider. The most up-to-date guidelines and evidence1 suggest that women do not need to discontinue breastfeeding to take her prescribed medication. In fact, multiple studies have demonstrated that the long-term neurodevelopmental effects for the baby are not significant if the mother takes her ADHD medication as prescribed.
Stimulants are the most common treatment for ADHD, including methylphenidate (with brand names Ritalin and Concerta) and dexamfetamine (brand name Vyvanse). They come in two forms: immediate release, which lasts for four hours; and extended-release which is taken once daily in the morning and can last up to 16 hours. Many people suffering from ADD or ADHD find that the most effective way to combat their symptoms is to take the extended-release medication with immediate-release pills in the evening or in the afternoon.
Certain medications are not compatible with breastfeeding, like clonidine, which reduces prolactin production and reduces production of milk. Some people suffering from ADD and ADHD don't want to stop nursing due to this reason, so they switch to a different stimulant. These drugs are less likely to have high RIDs, and they may be covered under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. It is crucial to speak with an GP and/or specialist if you are considering switching your medication during pregnancy, breastfeeding or postpartum. They can provide you with information on the most secure medication and how to track the growth of your infant and its weight. The doctor or specialist may assist with referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist to receive additional assistance. They can also refer to dietitians to assist in managing nutrition and diet.
Postpartum
During pregnancy, women go through massive physical, hormonal, and emotional changes in their physical, emotional and hormonal. The transition to motherhood can bring great excitement, joy, and love, but also frustration or anxiety for some women. This is normal, and it's crucial to seek help from relatives or her doctor, as well as mental health experts if the mother is experiencing difficulties.
Having a baby can be exciting and a little overwhelming but there's no reason the new mom should feel like she has to do it all alone. Finding the right balance can be difficult but it can be helped by allowing yourself to rest, getting enough sleep and eating well. You should also attend your postpartum check-ups as they can spot any issues that could be present early.
The "baby blues" is the term used to describe a brief period during which women experience anxiety or depression after the birth of their baby. This is a very common condition and will usually disappear by itself within one or two weeks. Certain people experience symptoms that are more severe and last longer. This is known as postpartum depressive disorder, and it is a condition that can be treated. If a woman has experienced anxiety or depression in the past, she is at a higher risk of developing it after the birth of her child.
In some cases a woman may develop postpartum psychiasis. This can be very dangerous for both mother and child. It is a psychiatric emergency that should be treated immediately. The treatment could include a combination therapy and medication. A therapist who has lived experiences with this condition can be particularly helpful. If the symptoms are severe electroconvulsive (ECT) therapy is advised.
If mother suffering from an episode of postpartum psychosis will likely prescribe an antipsychotic medication like lithium or valproate and a mood stabilizer like citalopram. They may also recommend cognitive behavioral therapy to address the root causes. Tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine and nortriptyline, are sometimes prescribed but can have serious adverse effects. They are usually only prescribed if other drugs have failed.
Adolescence
Adolescence is a crucial period of cognitive, physical and psychosocial development. It is a time of transition from dependency on parents to independence in making decisions and acting in the world around them. Adolescents become interested in expanding their social circle beyond the immediate family, to include their friends, peers and acquaintances. Their social networks could also include members of teams in activities, student organizations, or even jobs.
During adolescence, biological changes in brain structure and connectivity are interacted with a growing amount of knowledge, experience and changing social demands to create rapid cognitive growth. This includes improvements in selective and divided focus (the ability to concentrate on different stimuli at the same time), working memory, and long-term memory. Furthermore, the ability of adolescents of thinking abstractly and morally improves too.
These cognitive changes are caused by hormonal changes that make adolescents more attracted to new and exciting experiences. Their hormones also make them seek out experiences which will raise their status above other individuals. This desire to try new things can be used positively, for example by participating in a school performance. It is also a good way to take healthy risks for example, like engaging in sexual activities or other risky behavior, provided that they are in a safe and secure environment.
The differing levels of physical growth could cause awkward stages in adolescence and anxiety or self-consciousness about the changes in their bodies. In some cultures, like those of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, adolescence can be a period when young people are able to establish their identity within their clans, families and their countries, their ancestors, and their country.
Teens' relationships with friends can be a source of strength or conflict during this time. These relationships are crucial for adolescents' health and can significantly impact their happiness and wellbeing. The relationships between adolescents and their parents can be an excellent source of support for them, especially when they can solve problems in a non-confrontational way.