ADHD Medication and Pregnancy
Psychiatrists are often approached by women who are trying for an infant or are expecting, and are concerned about the effects of their ADHD medication. The good news is that research suggests it is safe to take stimulant drugs throughout the pregnancy.
The results are based on naturalistic studies which included many first-trimester expository sessions.
Pregnancy
Women are thrilled about the pregnancy and the birth of the baby however, they are concerned about how their ADHD medication will affect their child's birth. Stimulant medications are known to cause teratogenic effects and some physicians recommend that patients stop taking their medication when trying to conceive or in the first trimester of pregnancy. However, many individuals with ADHD require the benefits of their medication to function in daily life and may have difficulty without it during this period.
A recent study in Denmark found that exposure to methylphenidate during the first trimester (in the form of a redeemed prescription) does not seem 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-based data from various Danish databases to identify pregnant women and their medications prior to and during pregnancy including information on whether the woman was being treated for ADHD.
The researchers followed 898 babies born to mothers exposed to methylphenidate and other stimulants during the first trimester of pregnancy. They were compared with 1,270 babies in the control group who did not receive any stimulant medication or methylphenidate during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Both infant groups were assessed for neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders and other neurodevelopmental disorders, growth impairments, and fetal heart defects (such as gastroschisis, omphalocele, and transverse limb deficiency). The results showed that babies of women exposed to methylphenidate in utero did not have higher rates of any of these disorders when as compared to subjects. This was the case for both the first and second trimesters of pregnancy.
This is a promising result that can comfort pregnant women who take ADHD medication and may want or need to continue their treatment throughout pregnancy. The study did not examine the impact of lifestyle changes or other medications on the foetus. Other studies have demonstrated a link between stimulant medication and adverse pregnancy outcomes such as a caesarean birth or a baby needing assistance to breathe upon birth.
Breastfeeding
Even when women with ADD or ADHD require medication to control their symptoms, they realize that breastfeeding benefits their baby. The mother and child should be healthy and well-nourished. Therefore the decision about whether to breastfeed or take ADHD medications should be formulated with the assistance of a medical professional. According to the most recent recommendations and evidence1, a woman doesn't need to stop breastfeeding to take her prescribed medication. Numerous studies have demonstrated that the long-term neurodevelopmental effects for the infant are minimal if the mother takes her ADHD medications according to the prescription.
Stimulants such as dexamfetamine and methylphenidate are frequently used to treat ADHD. They are available in immediate-release versions, which lasts for up to 4 hours, and extended-release formulations that are taken every day in the morning and can last for up to 16 hours. Many people with ADD or ADHD find the best way to manage symptoms is to take an extended-release medicine in the afternoon or evening, and then supplement it with a tablet that is immediate-release.
Certain medications, like Clonidine, decrease prolactin production and are not compatible with breastfeeding. Some people with ADD and ADHD aren't ready to stop breastfeeding for this reason, and so they switch to a different stimulant medication. These drugs are less likely to have high RIDs, and they may be covered under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. It is essential to talk with an GP or a specialist if are considering changing your medication during breastfeeding, pregnancy or in the early postpartum period. They can give advice on the safest medication and how to track the baby's growth and weight. The doctor or specialist may assist in referring to a psychologist or psychiatrist for further assistance. They can also refer you to a dietitian who can assist with diet and nutrition.
Postpartum
During pregnancy, women go through massive physical, hormonal, and emotional changes in their physical, emotional and hormonal. 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 essential to seek assistance from family members or her doctor, as well as mental health experts if the mother is experiencing difficulties.
adhd uk medication can be exciting to be a parent, but it can also be overwhelming, but a new mom shouldn't feel like she has to do everything on her own. Finding the balance isn't easy however, you can assist yourself by taking time to rest and sleep. It is also important to attend your postpartum checks, since they can detect any issues that could be present early.
Some women may experience a brief moment of depression or anxiety following the birth of their child, which is called the "baby blues." It is a common occurrence that usually goes away by itself within about a week. However, for some, these feelings become much more serious and last longer. This is known as postpartum depression and is a treatable illness. If a woman had depression or anxiety in the past it is more likely to suffer from it again after having children.
In certain instances women may develop postpartum psychosis, which is very dangerous for the mother and the child. This is a mental health issue that needs to be addressed as soon as is possible. Treatment may include a combination of medication and therapy. A therapist who has lived experience with this illness can be particularly helpful. If the symptoms are severe, electroconvulsive (ECT) therapy may be suggested.
If a mother experiencing an episode of postpartum psychosis will probably prescribe an antipsychotic medication such as lithium or valproate as well as a mood stabilizer such as citalopram. They may also suggest the use of cognitive-behavioral therapy to help with the root causes. Tricyclic antidepressants, like nortriptyline and imipramine are sometimes prescribed, but cause serious side effects. They are usually only prescribed if other treatments have failed.
Adolescence
Adolescence is an important period of cognitive, physical and psychosocial growth. It requires a transition from dependency on parents to independence in making decisions and deciding how to act in the world around them. Adolescents begin to take an interest in expanding their social circle from only their family members to include friends, peers and acquaintances with whom they spend a lot of time at school or participating in other activities. Their social networks could include people from student organizations, team sports or jobs.
As we grow older, changes in brain structure and connectivity are interacted with a growing amount of knowledge, experience and social demands that change to trigger rapid cognitive growth. This includes improvements in selective and divided focus (the ability to focus on several stimuli at the same time) and working memory and long-term memory. In addition, adolescents' capacity of thinking abstractly and morally improves too.
These cognitive changes are accompanied by hormonal changes that cause adolescents to be more attracted to new and challenging experiences. Their hormones also force them to seek out experiences which will elevate their status to other people. The desire to explore new experiences can be used positively, for example by participating in a school performance. It can also be used to take healthy risks, such as exploring sexual activities or other risk-taking behaviors in the event that they are in a secure and supportive environment.
Varying rates of physical development can cause awkward stages of appearance in adolescence as well as feelings of self-consciousness and anxiety about their body changes. In certain cultures, like those of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the adolescent years can be a time where young people begin to establish their place in relation to their clans, families nations, ancestors, and country.
Relationships between teens and their friends could be a source for support or conflict. These relationships are crucial for the health of adolescents and can significantly impact their happiness and wellbeing. The relationships between adolescents and their parents can be a great source of support for them, especially when they are able to solve problems in a non-confrontational fashion.