ADHD Medication and Pregnancy
Psychologists often see women who are trying to conceive or are pregnant and concerned about the impact of their ADHD medication on the baby. The good news is that research suggests it is safe to take stimulant medication during pregnancy.
The research is based on naturalistic studies which included many first-trimester expository sessions.
Pregnancy
The birth of a baby and pregnancy are exciting times for women, but some can worry about the effect of their ADHD medication on their baby. The stimulant medications are known to have negative teratogenic effects. Some doctors recommend that patients stop taking their medication when trying to conceive or in the first trimester of pregnancy. Many people suffering from ADHD require medication to function and can be a struggle with it without it.
A recent study from Denmark discovered that exposure to methylphenidate in the first trimester (in the form a redeemed medication) did not seem to increase the risk of major malformations when compared to the control group who did not receive redeemed medications during the first trimester. The study utilized registry-based data from several Danish databases to determine the number of pregnant women and their medical history prior to and during pregnancy, including information about whether the woman was treated for ADHD.
The researchers monitored 898 babies born to mothers exposed to methylphenidate or other stimulants during the first trimester of pregnancy. They were compared to 1,270 babies who were part of the group of control and did not receive methylphenidate, or any other stimulant medication in the first three months of pregnancy.
Both groups of infants were assessed for neurodevelopmental disorders of the psychiatric kind, other neurodevelopmental impairments growth impairments, fetal heart problems (such as gastroschisis, omphalocele, and transverse limb deficiency). The results showed that infants born to women who were exposed to methylphenidate in pregnancy did not show any increased rates when contrasted with the controls. This was true for the first and second trimesters.
This is a promising result that could be a source of comfort for pregnant women who take ADHD medication and might want or need to continue their treatment throughout their pregnancy. The study did not examine the impact of lifestyle changes or other medications on the foetus. Other studies have shown the connection between stimulant medications 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 can be beneficial for their child even if they have to take medication to treat their symptoms. The mother and baby must be healthy and well-nourished. Therefore the decision about whether to breastfeed or take ADHD medications should be taken with the help of a medical professional. The most recent recommendations and evidence1 suggest that women do not have to stop breastfeeding to take her prescribed medication. Numerous studies have proven that long-term neurodevelopmental effects of the baby are not significant if the mother takes her ADHD medications according to the prescription.
Stimulants are the most commonly used treatment for ADHD, including methylphenidate (with brand names Ritalin and Concerta) and dexamfetamine (brand name Vyvanse). They are available in immediate-release form, which lasts for up to four hours, and extended-release formulations which are taken twice a day in the morning and may last up to 16 hours. Many people with ADD or ADHD find that the best method to manage their symptoms is to supplement the extended-release medication with immediate-release pills in the evening or in the afternoon.
Some medications, such as Clonidine, decrease prolactin production and are not compatible with breastfeeding. Some people suffering from ADD or ADHD do not want to stop breastfeeding due to this reason and choose to change their medication to another stimulant or a non-stimulant, like atomoxetine or guanfacine. These medications have lower RIDs and are more likely to be covered under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. If buy adhd medication online of changing your medication during your pregnancy or while breastfeeding it is essential to talk to a GP or a specialist. They can give you advice on the safest medications and how to monitor your infant's growth and weight. They may also refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist for further assistance. They may also refer you to a dietitian who can assist with nutrition and diet.
Postpartum
During pregnancy, women undergo enormous hormonal, physical, and emotional changes. The transition to motherhood can be a time of great excitement, joy, and affection, but also anger, anxiety, or sadness for some women. This is normal, and it's essential to seek assistance from relatives, her doctor and/or mental health professionals if the new mother is struggling.
Having a baby can be exciting and overwhelming, however there is no reason why the new mom should feel that she must 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 go to your postpartum checkups as they will be able to identify any potential issues early on.
The "baby blues" is a term used to describe a brief time in which some women feel depression or anxiety following the birth of their child. This is a normal occurrence that will usually subside on its own in about a week. Some people experience feelings that are more intense and last longer. This is known as postpartum depression disorder and is a treatable condition. If a woman has suffered from anxiety or depression in the past, she is more likely to suffer from it again after giving birth.
In certain instances women can develop postpartum psychosis, which can be extremely dangerous for both the mother and the child. It is a psychiatric emergency and should be treated promptly. Treatment may include a combination of medication and therapy. A therapist with experience in this condition can be extremely beneficial. If the symptoms are severe, electroconvulsive (ECT) therapy is suggested.
If best adhd medication for adults who is having postpartum psychosis, the doctor will probably prescribe an antipsychotic medication like lithium or valproate and an antidepressant such as citalopram. They may also recommend the use of cognitive-behavioral therapy to help with the underlying issues. Tricyclic antidepressants like imipramine and nortriptyline, are often prescribed, but they can cause serious side effects. They are typically prescribed if other treatments have failed.
Adolescence
Adolescence is a critical time of physical, cognitive and psychosocial development. Adolescence is an age of rapid growth in terms of physical, cognitive and psychosocial development. Adolescents begin to take an interest in expanding their social circle beyond just their family to include friends, peers and acquaintances with whom they spend a significant amount of time at school or other activities. Their social networks could also include people from team activities, student organizations, or jobs.
In adolescence, the biological changes in brain structure and connectivity can be correlated with increased experience, knowledge and social demands that change to produce rapid cognitive growth. This includes an increase in divided and selective attention (the ability to concentrate on multiple stimuli at once), working memory and long-term memory. In addition, adolescents' capacity of thinking abstractly and morally also improves.
These cognitive changes are accompanied by hormonal changes that make adolescents more attracted by new and exciting experiences. Their hormones also prompt them to look for experiences that increase their status in the public's eyes. This drive toward new experiences can be used to gain positive results like participating in the school play or getting involved in a service project for the community. It is also possible to take risks that are healthy like exploring sexual activity or other risk-taking behaviors, provided that they are in a safe and secure environment.
Different levels of physical development could cause awkward stages of appearance during adolescence, as well as feelings of self-consciousness and anxiety about their body's changes. In certain cultures, like those of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, adolescence can be a time where young people find their place in relation to their families, clans and their communities, their ancestors, and their country.
Teens' relationships with friends can be a source of strength or conflict during this time. The quality of these relationships is vital for the wellbeing of adolescents and could be an important factor in their wellbeing and happiness. The relationship between adolescents and their parents can also be a source of support, especially when they can resolve family problems together in a non-confrontational manner.