Why ADHD Medication And Pregnancy Could Be Your Next Big Obsession
ADHD Medication and Pregnancy
Psychiatrists are often approached by women who are trying for a baby or are pregnant and are concerned about the negative effects of their ADHD medication. There is good news: Research suggests that, on balance, it is safe to continue taking stimulant drugs during pregnancy.
The results are based on naturalistic studies which included many first-trimester expository sessions.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy and a new baby are exciting times for women, but many are concerned about the effects of their ADHD medication on their child who is yet to be born. Some doctors recommend to their patients to stop taking stimulant medication during pregnancy or when trying to conceive. Many people suffering from ADHD require medication 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 prescription redeemed) does not appear to increase the risk of major malformations compared to a group that did not have prescriptions that were redeemed in the first trimester of pregnancy. The study utilized registry-based data from various Danish databases to identify pregnant women and their medical history prior to and during pregnancy including information on whether the woman was treated for ADHD.
The researchers monitored 898 babies born to mothers exposed to methylphenidate and other stimulants in the initial trimester of pregnancy. They were compared with 1,270 babies who were part of the control group and were not exposed to methylphenidate or any other stimulant medication in the first three months of pregnancy.
Both groups of babies underwent an extensive examination for fetal heart defects like gastroschisis or omphalocele. The results showed that babies of women exposed to methylphenidate during pregnancy did not show increased rates of any of these conditions when contrasted with the control group. This was the case for both the first and second trimesters of pregnancy.
This is a positive finding that can be comforting to pregnant women who use ADHD medication and might need or want to continue their treatment throughout pregnancy. This study did not assess the impact of lifestyle changes or other medications on a pregnant fetus. Other studies have shown the connection between stimulant medications and adverse pregnancy outcomes such as a caesarean birth, or the baby needing help to breathe upon birth.
Breastfeeding
Even when women who suffer from ADD or ADHD need to take medication to manage their symptoms, they realize that breastfeeding is beneficial for their child. The mother and child must be well-nourished. Therefore the decision about whether to breastfeed or take ADHD medications should be taken with the assistance of a healthcare provider. The most current guidelines and evidence1 suggest women do not need to stop breastfeeding to take her prescribed medication. Numerous studies have proven that the neurodevelopmental effects on the infant's health in the long run are not significant when a mother is taking her ADHD medication as prescribed.
Stimulants are among the most popular medication used to treat ADHD and include methylphenidate (with brand names Ritalin and Concerta) and dexamfetamine (brand name Vyvanse). They are available in two forms: immediate-release, that lasts for up to four hours; and extended release, that is taken every day in the morning, and can last for up to sixteen hours. Many people suffering from ADD or ADHD find that the best method 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, like Clonidine, can reduce prolactin levels and are not compatible with breastfeeding. Some people suffering from ADD and ADHD don't want to stop breastfeeding for this reason, so they change to a different stimulant. These drugs are less likely to have high RIDs and could be covered under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. If you are considering changing your medication during pregnancy or nursing it is essential to consult an GP or specialist. They can offer advice on the most safest medication to use and how to track the baby's weight and growth. They may also refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist for additional support. They can also refer you to a dietitian for help in nutrition and diet.
Postpartum
During pregnancy, the female body experiences enormous emotional, physical, and hormonal changes. For some women, the transition to parenthood can bring big feelings of happiness, joy and love but also frustration, sadness or anxiety. This is normal, and it's important to get help from relatives, her doctor and/or mental health experts if the new mom is struggling.
Having a baby can be exciting and overwhelming, however there is no reason why a new mother should feel like she has to do it by herself. Finding adhd medication is difficult but it can be helped by allowing yourself time 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 period of depression or anxiety after the birth of their child. This is often referred to as the "baby blues." This is a common condition that usually goes away on its own within about a week. Some people experience feelings that are more severe and last longer. This is referred to as postpartum depression and is a condition that can be treated. If a woman suffered from anxiety or depression in the past and is at a higher risk to experience it again after giving birth.
In certain instances women may suffer from postpartum psychosis, which is extremely risky for the mother and child. It is a psychiatric emergency that should be treated promptly. Treatment can consist of a combination of medication and therapy. A therapist who has experience with this illness can be very beneficial. If the symptoms are severe electroconvulsive (ECT) therapy may be recommended.
If a mother who is having an episode of postpartum psychosis, her doctor will likely prescribe an antipsychotic medication like lithium or valproate, and an antidepressant such as citalopram. They may also recommend cognitive behavioral therapy to treat the underlying problems. Tricyclic antidepressants, such as nortriptyline and imipramine, are sometimes prescribed, but have serious side effects. They are typically prescribed when other medications have failed.
Adolescence
Adolescence is an important period of cognitive, physical and psychosocial growth. Adolescence is a time of rapid growth in terms of cognitive, physical and psychosocial development. Adolescents begin to consider expanding their social circle beyond their immediate family members to include their friends, peers, and acquaintances. Their social networks also may include members of team sports, student groups or even jobs.
As we grow older, changes in brain structure and connectivity can be correlated with increased experience, knowledge and the changing demands of society to produce rapid cognitive growth. This includes an increase in selective and divided attention (the ability to focus on different stimuli simultaneously) as well as working memory and long-term memory. Furthermore, the ability of adolescents to think abstractly and morally also improves.
These cognitive changes are accompanied with hormonal changes, which makes adolescents more drawn to novel and intense experiences. Their hormones also make them seek out experiences that make them more attractive to other people. This drive toward new experiences can be utilized in positive ways, such as by trying out for the school play or getting involved in a service project for the community. It can be used to take risks that are healthy in exploring sexual behavior or other risk-taking behaviours when they are in a safe and safe environment.
The differing levels of physical growth could result in awkward stages of adolescence and feelings of anxiety or self-consciousness about their body changes. In some cultures, like those of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, adolescence is a time when young people discover their place in relation to their clans, families and their countries and their ancestors as well as their country.
Teens' relationships with their friends can be a source of support or conflict during this time. The quality of these relationships is important to the wellbeing of adolescents and is an important element in their happiness and wellbeing. The relationship between adolescents and their parents can be a source of comfort, particularly when they are able to resolve family issues in a non-confrontational manner.