my response and Pregnancy
Psychiatrists are often approached by women who are trying to have an infant or are expecting and are concerned about the negative effects of their ADHD medication. The good news is that research suggests that it is safe to take stimulant medication during pregnancy.
The findings are based upon naturalistic studies using a vast number of exposures to the first trimester.
Pregnancy
Women are thrilled about the pregnancy and the birth of babies, but they may worry about how their ADHD medication affects their child's future. These medications are known to have potential adverse teratogenic consequences and some doctors recommend that patients stop taking their medication when trying to conceive or in the first trimester of pregnancy. However, many people with ADHD require the benefits of their medication to be able to function in their daily lives and may struggle without it during this period.
A recent study from Denmark discovered that exposure to methylphenidate during the first trimester (in the form a redeemable medication) did not appear to increase the risk of malformations that cause major damage in comparison to the control group that did not receive redeemed medications during the first trimester. The study used registry-based data from various Danish databases to identify pregnant women and their medication history before and during pregnancy, including information about whether the woman was treated for ADHD.
Researchers followed 898 babies whose mothers had been exposed to methylphenidate as well as other stimulants during the first trimester. They were compared with 1,270 babies in the control group that were not exposed to stimulant medication or methylphenidate in the first trimester of pregnancy.
Both infant groups were examined for neurodevelopmental disorders of the psychiatric kind as well as other neurodevelopmental impairments, growth impairments, and fetal heart problems (such as gastroschisis, omphalocele or transverse limb deficiency). The results showed that infants born to mothers who were exposed to methylphenidate in pregnancy did not show any increased rates when as compared to controls. This was true for both the first and second trimesters of pregnancy.
This is a promising result that can provide comfort to pregnant women who take ADHD medication and who may wish or need to continue their treatment throughout the pregnancy. It is important to remember that this study did not examine the impact of other medications or lifestyle changes on the fetus and other studies have revealed an connection between the use of stimulants and adverse outcomes during pregnancy, for example having a caesarean birth or the baby needing assistance to start breathing at the time of birth.
Breastfeeding
Many women with ADD or ADHD find that breastfeeding is beneficial for their child even if they need to take medication to alleviate their symptoms. It is essential that the mother and infant are well-nourished, so the choice to breastfeed or take ADHD medication should be made in consultation with a medical professional. According to the most current guidelines and research1, a woman doesn't need to stop breastfeeding in order to take the prescribed medication. Numerous studies have proven that long-term neurodevelopmental effects for the infant are minimal if the mother takes her ADHD medications as prescribed.
Stimulants are among the most popular treatment for ADHD, including 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 formulations that are taken every day in the morning, and can last for up to 16 hours. Many people with ADD or ADHD discover that the best way to manage their symptoms is to take extended-release medications in the evening or afternoon and then supplement it with an immediate-release tablet.
Certain medications are not compatible with breastfeeding, for example, clonidine, a drug that reduces prolactin production and reduces milk production. Certain people with ADD or ADHD do not want to stop breastfeeding for this reason. They decide to switch their medication to an alternative stimulant or a non-stimulant, such as atomoxetine or guanfacine. These medications are less likely to contain high RIDs and could be covered under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. If you're thinking of changing your medication during pregnancy or nursing it is crucial to talk to an GP or specialist. They can give advice on the most safest medication to use and the best way to monitor your baby's growth and weight. The GP or specialist can 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 the female body experiences massive emotional, physical, and hormonal changes. The transition to motherhood can be a time of tremendous joy, excitement and affection, but also anger, anxiety, or sadness for some women. This is normal and it is crucial that the new mother gets support from loved ones, her health care provider, and/or a mental health professional when she is struggling.
Having a baby can be thrilling and overwhelming, but there is no reason why mothers should feel as if she has to do it all alone. Finding the balance can be difficult but you can help yourself by taking time to rest and get a good night's sleep. It is also crucial to attend your postpartum checkups as they will be able to detect any issues that could be developing early on.
The "baby blues" is an expression used to describe a brief time in which some women feel depressed or anxious after the birth of their baby. This is a fairly common occurrence, and usually disappear by itself within a week or two. However, for some, these feelings can become more serious and last longer. This is referred to as postpartum depression and is a condition that can be treated. If a woman had anxiety or depression in the past, she is at an increased risk of developing it following the birth of her child.
In certain instances, women can develop postpartum psychiasis. This is extremely hazardous for both mother as well as child. This is a psychiatric crisis that needs to be addressed as soon as is possible. The treatment could include a combination therapy and medication. A therapist with through this illness may be extremely beneficial. If the symptoms are severe, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be recommended.
If mother suffering from postpartum psychosis will probably prescribe an antipsychotic drug such as lithium or valproate and a mood stabilizer such as citalopram. They may also recommend a course of cognitive behavioural therapy to help with the underlying issues. Tricyclic antidepressants such as nortriptyline or imipramine are often employed, but they can cause adverse side effects that are difficult to manage and are usually only prescribed when other medications have not been effective.
Adolescence
Adolescence is a crucial period of cognitive, physical and psychosocial development. Adolescence is an age of rapid growth in terms of physical, cognitive and psychosocial development. Adolescents are interested in expanding their social circle beyond the immediate family, to include their peers, friends and acquaintances. Their social circle could also comprise members of student groups and team sports, as well as jobs.
As we grow older, the changes in brain connectivity and structure interact with increasing experience, knowledge and social demands, resulting in rapid cognitive development. 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 the ability of adolescents to think abstractly and morally increases.
These cognitive changes are accompanied by hormonal changes that cause adolescents to be more attracted to novel and intense experiences. The hormones in their bodies also trigger them to seek out experiences that elevate their status in the public's eyes. This urge to explore new experiences can be used positively, for example by participating in a school play. It can be used to take healthy risk for example, like exploring sexual behavior or other risky behaviors, provided they are in a supportive and secure environment.
The different levels of physical growth could create awkward adolescent stages and feelings of self-consciousness or anxiety about the changes in their bodies. In certain cultures, such as those of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, adolescence is a time when young people discover their place in relation to their clans, their families, their nations as well as their ancestors and their country.
Relationships between teens and their friends can be a source of support or conflict. These relationships are important for adolescents' health and can significantly impact their happiness and well-being. Relationships between adolescents and their parents can be a wonderful source of support for them, particularly when they are able to work out problems in a non-confrontational fashion.