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 effects of their ADHD medication. The good news is that research suggests that it is safe to take stimulant medication throughout the pregnancy.
The findings are based upon naturalistic studies that included an abundance of first-trimester expository sessions.
Pregnancy
Women are excited about pregnancy and the birth of the baby however, they are concerned about how their ADHD medication will affect their child's birth. Some physicians recommend to their patients to stop taking stimulant drugs during pregnancy or when trying to conceive. Many people suffering from ADHD need their medication to function and can be a struggle with it without it.
A study conducted in Denmark recently discovered that exposure to methylphenidate during the first trimester (in the form of a redemption medication) did not seem to increase the risk of malformations that cause major damage in comparison to the control group that did not receive redeemed medication during the first trimester. The study used registry information from Danish databases to identify pregnant woman and their medication history and whether they had been treated for ADHD.
Researchers observed 898 babies whose mothers were exposed to methylphenidate as well as other stimulants during the first trimester. They were compared to 1,270 babies who were part of the group that did not receive methylphenidate, or any other stimulant medication in the first three months of pregnancy.
Both groups of babies were examined for neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders as well as other neurodevelopmental impairments, growth impairments, and fetal heart defects (such as gastroschisis, omphalocele, or transverse limb deficiency). The results revealed that infants born to mothers who were exposed to methylphenidate during pregnancy didn't exhibit any higher rates compared with controls. This was true for both the first and second trimesters of pregnancy.
This is a positive result that can provide comfort to pregnant women who take ADHD medication and may want or require treatment throughout pregnancy. The study did not examine the impact of lifestyle changes or other medications on the foetus. Other studies have shown a link between stimulant medication and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as a caesarean birth, or the baby needing assistance to breathe upon birth.
Breastfeeding
Many women who have ADD or ADHD find that breastfeeding is beneficial for their child even if they need to take medication to treat their symptoms. It is important that the mother and child are well-nourished, and the choice to breastfeed or take ADHD medication should be made in consultation with a medical professional. The most up-to-date guidelines and evidence1 suggest that women do not need to stop breastfeeding in order to take her prescribed medication. In fact, multiple studies have shown that the long-term neurodevelopmental effects on the baby are not significant if the mother takes her ADHD medications as prescribed.
Stimulants such as dexamfetamine and methylphenidate, are often 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. Many people with ADD or ADHD discover that the best way to treat their symptoms is to take an extended-release medicine in the evening or afternoon and then follow it up with an immediate-release tablet.
Certain medications, like Clonidine, can reduce prolactin levels and are not compatible with breastfeeding. Some people with ADD and ADHD don't want to stop nursing for this reason, and so they change to a different stimulant. These drugs have lower RIDs and are more likely to be covered under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. It is crucial to speak with an GP or a specialist if are thinking of changing your medication during your pregnancy, breastfeeding, or early postpartum. They can offer advice on the safest medication and how to track the baby's growth and weight. The doctor or specialist can also help with the referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist to receive additional assistance. They can also refer to a dietitian to assist with managing diet and nutrition.
Postpartum
During pregnancy, the female body experiences massive emotional, physical, and hormonal changes. For some women who are expecting, the transition can bring big feelings of happiness, joy and love, but also frustration and sadness, or even anxiety. This is normal and it is essential to ensure that the new mom receives help from family members as well as her health care provider and/or an expert in mental health when she is experiencing difficulties.
Being a mother can be thrilling and overwhelming, however there's no reason a new mother should feel that she has to do it on her own. Finding the right balance can be difficult, but it can be made easier by allowing yourself time to rest, taking enough sleep and eating well. You should also go to your postpartum check-ups since they can detect any potential issues early.
The "baby blues" is an expression used to describe a brief period in which some women experience depression or anxiety following the birth of their baby. This is a very common occurrence and tends to go away by itself within a week or two. However for some, these feelings can become more serious and last longer than that. This is known as postpartum depression, and is a treatable illness. If a woman has experienced anxiety or depression in the past it, she is at a greater risk of developing it following the birth of her child.
In a few instances women may suffer from postpartum psychosis, which can be extremely dangerous for both the mother and child. This is a psychiatric issue that should be treated as soon as possible. The treatment can include combination therapy and medication. A therapist who has had through this illness may be particularly helpful. If the symptoms are severe, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be recommended.
In the case of an episode of postpartum psychiasis in a mom, her doctor is likely to prescribe an antipsychotic like Valproate or lithium and an antidepressant such as citalopram. They will also likely recommend a course of cognitive behavioural therapy to help with the underlying issues. Tricyclic antidepressants like nortriptyline or imipramine are often used but they can have challenging side effects and so are generally only prescribed if other medications have not been effective.
Adolescence
Adolescence is a crucial period for cognitive, physical, and psychosocial development. Adolescence is an age of rapid growth in terms of physical, cognitive and psychosocial development. adhd and medication are attracted to expanding their social circle beyond only their family members to include friends, peers and acquaintances with whom they may spend significant time at school or in other activities. Their social network may also comprise members of student groups as well as team sports or jobs.
During adolescence the biological changes in brain connectivity and structure are influenced by increasing experience, knowledge, and changing social demands, resulting in rapid cognitive development. This includes improvements in divided and selective attention (the ability to concentrate on a variety of stimuli simultaneously) working memory, as well as long-term memory. Additionally, adolescents' ability to think abstractly and morally improves too.
These cognitive changes are accompanied by hormonal changes that make teenagers more attracted by new and exciting experiences. Their hormones also cause them to seek out experiences that will increase their status in the public's eyes. This desire for new experiences can be utilized in positive ways, such as by participating in an upcoming school play or getting involved in a service project for the community. It is also a way to take healthy risk, such as investigating sexuality or other risky behaviors as long as they are in a safe and secure environment.
Different levels of physical development could result in awkward phases of appearance as adolescents enter adolescence as well as feelings of self-consciousness or anxiety about the changes in their bodies. In some cultures, like those of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, adolescence is a time when young people are able to establish their identity within their clans, families and their countries, their ancestors, and their country.
Relationships between teens and friends can either be a source of support or conflict. These relationships are crucial for adolescents' health and can have a significant impact on their happiness and well-being. The relationship of adolescents with their parents can also be an important source of comfort, particularly if they can work out family issues in a non-confrontational way.