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ADHD Medication and Pregnancy Psychiatrists are often approached by women who are trying to get a baby or are pregnant and are concerned about the effects of their ADHD medication. The good news is that research suggests it is safe to take stimulant drugs during pregnancy. The results are based on naturalistic studies using a vast sample of first-trimester exposures. Pregnancy Women are excited about having a baby and expecting a baby however, they are concerned about how their ADHD medication affects their child's future. Some doctors advise their patients to not take stimulant medications during pregnancy or when trying to get pregnant. Many people suffering from ADHD require their medication to function, and they may have difficulty in this time without it. A study conducted in Denmark recently found that exposure to methylphenidate within the first trimester (in the form a redeemed medication) did not appear to increase the risk of major malformations when compared to the control group that didn't receive redeemed medications during the first trimester. The study utilized registry-based data from various Danish databases to identify pregnant women and their medications prior to and during pregnancy including information about whether the woman was being treated for ADHD. The researchers followed a total of 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 that did not receive methylphenidate or any other stimulant medication in the first three months of pregnancy. Both infants underwent an extensive examination for fetal heart defects like gastroschisis and omphalocele. The results showed that infants born to mothers who were exposed to methylphenidate during pregnancy did not have any increased rates as compared to controls. This was the case for the first and second trimesters. This is a good news finding that can be comforting to pregnant women who use ADHD medication and may need or want to continue their treatment during pregnancy. The study did not examine the impact of lifestyle changes or other medications on a fetus. Other studies have revealed that there is a link between stimulant medications and adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as a caesarean birth or a baby needing assistance to breathe during birth. Breastfeeding Even if women suffering from ADD or ADHD need to take medication to control their symptoms, they discover that breastfeeding helps their baby. It is crucial that both the mother and baby are well-nourished, so the choice to breastfeed or take ADHD medication should be made in consultation with a medical professional. The most current guidelines and evidence1 suggest women do not have to stop breastfeeding to take her prescribed medications. Multiple studies have shown that the neurodevelopmental impacts on the infant's health in the long run are not significant when a mother is taking her ADHD medication according to the prescription. Stimulants are the most common medication used to treat ADHD and include methylphenidate (with brand names Ritalin and Concerta) and dexamfetamine (brand name Vyvanse). They come in two forms: immediate release, which lasts up to four hours; and extended release, that is taken every day in the morning, and can last up to sixteen hours. Many people who have ADD or ADHD find that the best method to combat their symptoms is to take an extended-release medication with immediate-release pills in the afternoon or evening. Certain medications, such as Clonidine, reduce prolactin production and are incompatible with breastfeeding. Certain people suffering from ADD and ADHD aren't ready to stop nursing for this reason, and so they switch to a different stimulant medication. These medications have lower RIDs and are more likely to be covered by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. It is important to speak with a GP or specialist if you are thinking of changing your medication during pregnancy, breastfeeding or in the early postpartum period. They can offer information on the most secure medication and how to track the growth of your infant and its weight. They may also refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist to provide additional assistance. They can also refer you to a dietitian for assistance with nutrition and diet. Postpartum During pregnancy, the female body undergoes enormous emotional, physical, and hormonal changes. The transition to motherhood can bring great excitement, joy, and love, but also frustration or anxiety for some women. This is normal and it is important to ensure that the new mom receives support from loved ones and her health care provider and/or a mental health professional if she is struggling. The birth of a child can be thrilling and overwhelming, however there's no reason the new mom should feel like she has to do it all alone. Finding the balance isn't easy however, you can assist yourself by taking time to rest and sleep well. It is also important to attend your postpartum checks, since they can detect any issues that could be present early. The “baby blues” is the term used to describe a brief time in which some women experience anxiety or depression after the birth of their baby. This is a common condition that tends to go away by itself within a week or so. However for some, the feelings can become more serious and last for longer. This is referred to as postpartum depression, and is a treatable illness. If a woman had anxiety or depression in the past and is at a higher risk to develop it again after giving birth. In a few instances women may suffer from postpartum psychosis, which is extremely risky for the mother and the child. It is a psychiatric crisis and must be treated immediately. Treatment may include a combination of medication and therapy. A therapist with experience in this illness can be very helpful. If the symptoms are severe electroconvulsive (ECT) therapy could be recommended. In the event of postpartum psychiasis in a mom who is pregnant, the doctor will likely prescribe an antipsychotic such as lithium or Valproate along with a mood stabilizer like citalopram. They may also suggest a course of cognitive behavioural therapy to treat the root causes. Tricyclic antidepressants such as imipramine or nortriptyline are sometimes utilized, but they can also have adverse side effects that are difficult to manage and are typically only prescribed when other medications have not worked. Adolescence Adolescence is an important period of cognitive, physical and psychosocial growth. It is a time of transition from dependence on parents to independence in making decisions and taking action in the world around them. Adolescents become interested in expanding their social circle beyond their immediate family to include their peers, friends and acquaintances. Their social networks could also include people from team sports, student organizations or jobs. In adolescence, the biological changes in brain structure and connectivity can be correlated with increased knowledge, experience and social demands that change to produce rapid cognitive growth. This includes an increase in selective and divided attention (the ability to focus on multiple stimuli at once), working memory and long-term memory. Furthermore, the ability of adolescents of thinking abstractly and morally also improves. These cognitive changes are accompanied with hormonal changes, which makes adolescents more drawn to exciting and new experiences. The hormones in their bodies also cause them to seek out experiences which will elevate their status to other individuals. This desire to explore new things can be used to benefit others such as by taking part in a school production. It is possible to take a healthy risk in exploring sexual behavior or other risk-taking behaviours, provided they are in a safe and secure environment. Varying rates of physical development can cause awkward stages of appearance in adolescence as well as feelings of self-consciousness or anxiety over their body's changes. In some traditions, such as those of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, adolescence might be a time where young people begin to establish their place with their families, clans nations, ancestors, and their country. Teens' relationships with their friends can be a source of strength or conflict during this period. These relationships are essential for the health of adolescents and can have a significant impact on their happiness and wellbeing. advice here 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.