ADHD Medication and Pregnancy
Psychiatrists are often approached by women who are trying to have the birth of a child or are pregnant, and are concerned about the effects of their ADHD medication. The good news is that research suggests that it is safe to take stimulant medications throughout pregnancy.
The findings are based upon naturalistic studies with a large number of exposures to the first trimester.
Pregnancy
Women are ecstatic about their being pregnant and the birth of a baby however, they are concerned about how their ADHD medication will affect their child's birth. Some physicians recommend to their patients to not take stimulant drugs during pregnancy or when trying to get pregnant. Many people suffering from ADHD require their medication in order to function and may struggle with it without it.
A recent study in Denmark discovered that the exposure to methylphenidate during the first trimester (in the form of a redeemed prescription) does not appear to increase the risk of major malformations as compared to a group that did not have prescriptions that were redeemed in the first trimester of pregnancy. The study used registry information from Danish databases to determine the gender of the pregnant women and their medical history, including whether they were treated for ADHD.
The researchers monitored 898 babies born to mothers who were exposed to methylphenidate or other stimulants during the first trimester of pregnancy. They were compared with 1,270 babies in the group that did not receive methylphenidate or any other stimulant medication during the first three months of pregnancy.
Both groups of infants were subjected to an extensive examination for abnormalities in the fetal heart like gastroschisis and omphalocele. The results found that the babies of women who were exposed to methylphenidate during pregnancy did not have increased rates of any of these disorders when contrasted with the subjects. This was the case for both the first and second trimesters of pregnancy.
just click the following web site is a promising result that can comfort pregnant women who take ADHD medication and may want or need to continue their treatment throughout pregnancy. This study did not evaluate the effects of lifestyle changes or other medications on the fetus. Other studies have shown that there is a link between stimulant medications and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as a caesarean delivery or the baby needing help to breathe during birth.
Breastfeeding
Many women with ADD or ADHD find that breastfeeding can be beneficial for their baby even if they have to take medication to treat their symptoms. It is crucial that the mother and child are well-nourished, and the decision to breastfeed or take ADHD medication should be taken in consultation with a medical professional. According to the most current recommendations and evidence1 that a woman does not need to stop breastfeeding to take her prescribed medication. In fact, multiple studies have demonstrated that the long-term neurodevelopmental effects for the infant are minimal in the event that the mother takes her ADHD medications as prescribed.
Stimulants are among the most popular treatment for ADHD and include methylphenidate (with brand names Ritalin and Concerta) and dexamfetamine (brand name Vyvanse). They are available in immediate-release forms, which lasts for up to four hours, and extended-release forms that are taken once a day in the morning. They could last as long as 16 hours. Many people with ADD or ADHD find that the best method to manage their symptoms is to take an extended-release medication with immediate-release pills in the evening or in the afternoon.
Some medications are not compatible with breastfeeding, such as Clonidine, which decreases prolactin levels and lowers milk production. Some people with ADD or ADHD are not able to stop breastfeeding due to this reason. They decide to switch their medication to an alternative stimulant or a non-stimulant, such as atomoxetine or guanfacine. These drugs have lower RIDs and are more likely to be covered under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. It is important to speak with a GP or a specialist if are considering changing your medication during breastfeeding, pregnancy, or early postpartum. They can give advice on the most secure medication and how to monitor the baby's weight and growth. The GP or specialist can also help with the referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist to receive additional assistance. They can also refer you to a dietitian for help with diet and nutrition.
Postpartum
During pregnancy, women go through enormous hormonal, physical, and emotional changes. For some women who are expecting, the transition can bring feelings of happiness, joy and love, but also anger and sadness, or even anxiety. This is normal and it is important that the new mother gets assistance from her family, her health care provider, and/or a mental health professional when she is struggling.
It's thrilling to have a baby and it can also be overwhelming but a new mother shouldn't feel that she must do it all by herself. Finding the right balance can be difficult, but it can be made easier by allowing yourself time to rest, getting enough sleep and eating healthy. You should also attend your postpartum check-ups, as they can spot any potential issues early.
Some women may experience a brief moment of anxiety or depression following the birth of their child. This is often referred to as the "baby blues." This is a common condition that tends to go away on its own within around a week. Certain people experience symptoms that are more intense and last for longer. This is called postpartum depressive disorder and is a treatable condition. If a woman had anxiety or depression in the past the birth of her child, she is at an increased risk of developing it after the birth of her child.
In certain instances, a woman can develop postpartum psychosis, which is very dangerous for the mother and child. It is a psychiatric emergency and must be treated immediately. Treatment could consist of the use of medications and therapy. A therapist who has had experience with this illness can be extremely beneficial. If the symptoms are severe, electroconvulsive (ECT) therapy may be suggested.
If there is postpartum psychiasis in a mom, her doctor is likely to prescribe an antipsychotic such as Valproate or lithium along with an antidepressant such as citalopram. They may also recommend cognitive behavioral therapy to treat the root cause of the problem. Tricyclic antidepressants such as nortriptyline and imipramine are occasionally employed, but they can cause difficult side effects and are typically only prescribed when other medications haven't worked.
Adolescence
Adolescence is a crucial period of cognitive, physical and psychosocial development. It is a time of transition from dependence on parents to a sense of independence when making decisions and acting in the world around them. Adolescents become interested in expanding their social circle beyond their immediate family to include their friends, peers and acquaintances. Their social networks may also include people from team sports, student organizations or jobs.
During adolescence the biological changes in brain connectivity and structure interact with increasing experience, knowledge and social demands and results in rapid cognitive growth. This includes an increase in divided and selective attention (the ability to focus on multiple stimuli at once), working memory and long-term memory. Additionally, adolescents' ability to think abstractly and morally also improves.
These cognitive changes are caused by hormonal changes that make teenagers more attracted to new and intense experiences. The hormones in their bodies also trigger them to look for experiences that increase their status in the opinions of others. This desire for new experiences can be harnessed in positive ways for example, by taking part in an upcoming school play or getting involved in a service project for the community. It can also be used to take healthy risks, such as engaging in sexual activities or other risky behaviors when they are in a secure and supportive environment.
Variable rates of physical development can lead to awkward stages of appearance as adolescents enter adolescence as well as feelings of self-consciousness or anxiety over their body's changes. In certain cultures, such as those of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, adolescence can be a period when young people are able to establish their identity in relation to their clans, their families and their countries, their ancestors, and their country.
Relationships between teens and friends can either be a source of support or conflict. The quality of these relationships is crucial to the wellbeing of adolescents and is a major factor in their happiness and wellbeing. The relationship of adolescents with parents can also be a significant source of support, especially when they are able to resolve family problems together in a non-confrontational manner.