This Is The One ADHD Medication And Pregnancy Trick Every Person Should Be Aware Of
ADHD Medication and Pregnancy
Psychologists often see women who are trying to get pregnant or are pregnant and worried about the impact of their ADHD medication on their child. The good news is that research suggests it is safe to take stimulant medications throughout pregnancy.
The results are based on naturalistic studies which included a large number of first-trimester expositions.
Pregnancy
Women are excited about pregnancy and the birth of babies however, they are concerned about the way their ADHD medication will affect their child's birth. Some doctors recommend to their patients to quit taking stimulant medication during pregnancy or when trying to have a baby. However, many people suffering from ADHD require the benefits of their medication in order to function in daily life and may struggle without it during this period.
A recent study from Denmark discovered that the first trimester exposure to methylphenidate (in the form of a redeemed prescription) does not seem to increase the risk of major malformations compared to a group of control subjects without redeemed prescriptions in the first trimester of pregnancy. The study used registry data from Danish databases to determine the gender of the pregnant women and their medical history as well as whether they were treated for ADHD.
The researchers monitored 898 babies born to mothers who were exposed to methylphenidate or other stimulants during the first trimester of pregnancy. They were compared to 1,270 babies in the control group that were not exposed to methylphenidate or other stimulant medications during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Both groups of infants were assessed for neurodevelopmental disorders of the psychiatric kind as well as other neurodevelopmental impairments, growth impairments, and fetal heart defects (such as gastroschisis, omphalocele or transverse limb deficiency). The results revealed that infants of women exposed to methylphenidate during pregnancy did not have higher rates of any of these conditions when compared to the control group. This was true for the first and second trimesters.
This is a positive result that can provide comfort to pregnant women who are taking ADHD medication and who may wish or need to continue their treatment throughout pregnancy. The study did not examine the effects of lifestyle changes or other medications on the pregnant fetus. Other studies have shown that there is a link 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 discover that breastfeeding is beneficial for their child, even when they need to take medication to treat their symptoms. It is important that both the mother and baby are well-nourished, and the decision to breastfeed or take ADHD medication should be made in consultation with a health care provider. According to the most recent guidelines and research1 women don't have to stop breastfeeding in order to take the prescribed medication. Multiple studies have shown that the neurodevelopmental effects on the infant's health in the long run are not significant when the mother is taking her ADHD medication as prescribed.
Stimulants are among the most popular medication used to treat ADHD such as 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 that are taken once a day in the morning, and can last for up to 16 hours. Many people with ADD or ADHD find that the most effective way to manage their symptoms is to take an extended-release medication by taking an immediate-release pill in the afternoon or evening.
Some medications, such as Clonidine, decrease prolactin production and are incompatible with breastfeeding. Certain people with ADD or ADHD aren't ready to stop breastfeeding for this reason and choose to switch their medication to another stimulant or a non-stimulant, like atomoxetine or guanfacine. These drugs are less likely to contain high RIDs, and they may be covered under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. It is important to speak with an GP or specialist if you are considering changing your medication during breastfeeding, pregnancy, or early postpartum. They can offer guidance on the most safest medications and ways to monitor your infant's growth and weight. They may also refer you to psychologists or psychiatrists for additional support. how does medication for adhd work may also refer you dietitians for assistance in managing diet and nutrition.
Postpartum
During pregnancy, women go through immense physical, hormonal and emotional changes in their physical, emotional and hormonal. For some women experiencing the transition to motherhood can be a time of great happiness, joy and love but also frustration or sadness. This is normal and it is important to ensure that the new mom receives assistance from her family as well as her health care provider and/or an expert in mental health when she is struggling.
Being a mother can be exciting and a little overwhelming but there is no reason why mothers should feel like she must do it all alone. Finding the right balance isn't easy but you can help yourself by taking time to rest and sleep. You should also attend your postpartum check-ups because they can identify any potential issues early.
Some women experience a brief period of depression or anxiety following the birth of their child. This is known as the "baby blues." This is a very common occurrence, and usually go away on its own within a week or two. However, for some, these feelings can become more serious and last longer than that. This is known as postpartum depression and is a medical condition that can be treated. If a woman suffered from depression or anxiety in the past it is more likely to experience it again after having children.
In some cases women may suffer from postpartum psychosis, which is very dangerous for the mother and the child. This is a mental health issue that should be treated as soon as is possible. Treatment may include the use of medications and therapy. A therapist with experience in this type of illness could be beneficial. If the symptoms are severe electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) might be suggested.
If there is postpartum psychiasis in a mom, her doctor will likely prescribe an antipsychotic like Valproate or lithium as well as a mood stabilizer such as citalopram. They may also suggest a course of cognitive behavioral therapy to help with the root causes. Tricyclic antidepressants, such as nortriptyline and imipramine, are often prescribed, but they can cause serious side effects. They are usually only prescribed after other medications have failed.
Adolescence
Adolescence is a crucial time for cognitive, physical, and psychosocial development. It requires a transition from dependence on parents to a sense of independence when making decisions and deciding how to act in the world around them. Adolescents are attracted to expanding their social circle from just their family to include friends, peers and acquaintances with whom they may spend significant time at school or participating in other activities. Their social networks may also include members of teams in activities, student organizations, or jobs.
As we grow older, changes in brain structure and connectivity are interacted with increased knowledge, experience and the changing demands of society to produce rapid cognitive growth. This includes improvements in selective and divided focus (the ability of focusing on several stimuli at the same time) as well as working memory and long-term memories. In addition, adolescents' capacity to think abstractly and morally improves too.
These cognitive changes are often accompanied with hormonal changes, which make adolescents more attracted by novel and intense experiences. Their hormones also force them to seek out experiences that make them more attractive to other individuals. This urge to explore new experiences can be used to benefit others for instance, by taking part in a school play. It can be used to take a healthy risk in exploring sexual behavior or other risky behavior, provided they are in a safe and secure environment.
The different levels of physical growth could cause awkward stages in adolescence and anxiety or self-consciousness about the changes in their bodies. In certain traditions, such as those of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, adolescence might be a time in which young people begin to establish their place with their families, clans, nations, ancestors and country.
Teens' relationships with their friends can be a source of strength or conflict during this period. The quality of these relationships is vital for the wellbeing of adolescents and can be an important element in their happiness and wellbeing. The relationship of adolescents with their parents can also be a significant source of support, particularly when they can resolve family problems together in a non-confrontational manner.