ADHD Medication and Pregnancy
Psychologists often see women who are trying to conceive or are expecting and worried about the effects of their ADHD medication on their baby. The good news is that research suggests that it is safe to take stimulant medications throughout the pregnancy.
The findings are based upon naturalistic studies with a large sample of first-trimester exposures.
Pregnancy
Women are ecstatic about their having a baby and expecting babies However, they might be concerned about how their ADHD medication affects their child's future. Stimulant medications are known to cause negative teratogenic effects. Some doctors recommend that patients stop taking their medication while trying to conceive or during the first trimester of pregnancy. However, many individuals with ADHD require the benefits of their medication in order to function in daily life and may be unable to function without it during this time.
A recent study from Denmark discovered that exposure to methylphenidate in 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 several Danish databases to determine the number of pregnant women and their medication history before and during pregnancy, including information about whether the woman was being treated for ADHD.
Researchers monitored 898 babies whose mothers were exposed to methylphenidate as well as other stimulants during the first trimester. They were compared with 1,270 babies in the control group who did not receive any stimulant medication, such as methylphenidate, in the first trimester of pregnancy.
Both infant groups were assessed for neurodevelopmental psychiatric disorders and other neurodevelopmental disorders, growth impairments, and fetal heart defects (such as gastroschisis, omphalocele, or transverse limb deficiency). The results showed that infants born to women who were exposed to methylphenidate during pregnancy didn't show any increased rates when contrasted with controls. This was true for the first and second pregnancy trimesters.
This is a promising outcome that could be a source of comfort for pregnant women who take ADHD medication and might want or require treatment throughout the pregnancy. It is important to remember that this study did not examine the effects of other medications or lifestyle changes on a fetus and that other studies have shown an connection between the use of stimulants and adverse outcomes during pregnancy, for example having a caesarean birth or the baby needing assistance to breathe at the time of birth.
Breastfeeding
Many women with ADD or ADHD find that breastfeeding can be beneficial for their child, even when they need to take medication to alleviate their symptoms. The mother and child must be healthy and well-nourished. Therefore the decision about whether to breastfeed or take ADHD medications should be formulated with the help from a health professional. The most recent guidelines and evidence1 suggest women do not have to stop breastfeeding in order to take her prescribed medication. In fact, multiple studies have shown that the long-term neurodevelopmental effects for the infant are minimal if the mother takes her ADHD medications according to the prescription.
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 forms that lasts up to four hours, and extended-release formulations which are taken twice a day in the morning. They could last as long as 16 hours. Many people suffering from ADD or ADHD find the best way to manage symptoms is to take an extended-release medicine in the afternoon or evening, and then supplement it with a tablet that is immediate-release.
Certain medications, like Clonidine, can reduce prolactin levels and are incompatible with breastfeeding. Some people with ADD or ADHD aren't ready to stop breastfeeding due to this reason and choose to change their medication to an alternative stimulant or a non-stimulant, such as atomoxetine or guanfacine. These medications 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 important to consult a GP or specialist. They can offer guidance on the most safest medication and how to track the growth of your infant and its weight. They may also refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist for further assistance. They can also refer to dietitians for assistance in managing nutrition and diet.
Postpartum
During pregnancy, women undergo massive physical, hormonal, and emotional changes in their physical, emotional and hormonal. For some women, the transition to parenthood can bring feelings of excitement, joy and love, but also frustration and sadness, or even anxiety. This is normal and it is essential that the new mother gets support from loved ones, her health care provider and/or a mental health professional if she is struggling.
It's thrilling to be a parent, but it can also be overwhelming, but a new mom should not feel like she must take on everything by herself. Finding the right balance is challenging, but it is possible to help by allowing yourself the time to rest, getting enough sleep and eating properly. It is also essential to schedule your postpartum checkups, as they will be able to identify any potential issues early.
Some women may experience a brief moment of anxiety or depression following the birth of their child. This is known as the "baby blues." It is a common occurrence that will usually subside by itself within about a week. Some people experience feelings that are more intense and last longer. This is known as postpartum depression and is a medical condition that can be treated. If a woman has suffered from depression or anxiety in the past, she is more likely to suffer from it again after giving birth.
In a few instances women may develop postpartum psychosis, which is extremely risky for the mother and child. This is a psychiatric issue that should be treated as soon as is possible. natural adhd medication may include the use of medications and therapy. A therapist with experience in this illness can be very beneficial. If the symptoms are severe electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) might be suggested.
In the event of an episode of postpartum psychiasis in a mom her doctor is likely to prescribe an antipsychotic like lithium or Valproate and a mood stabilizer such as citalopram. They might also suggest cognitive behavioral therapy to deal with the root causes. Tricyclic antidepressants such as nortriptyline or imipramine are often utilized, but they can also have adverse side effects that are difficult to manage and are usually only prescribed when other medications haven't worked.
Adolescence
Adolescence is an important time for cognitive, physical, and psychosocial growth. Adolescence is an age of rapid growth in terms of physical, cognitive and psychosocial development. Adolescents develop an interest in expanding their social circle beyond only their family members to include peers, friends and acquaintances with whom they may spend significant time at school or in other activities. Their social networks also may include people from team activities, student organizations, or jobs.
In adolescence, the biological changes in brain structure and connectivity interact with increased experience, knowledge and social demands that change to produce rapid cognitive growth. This includes improvements in selective and divided focus (the ability to focus on different things at the same time), 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 teenagers more attracted by new and intense experiences. Their hormones also cause them to seek out experiences that will increase their status in the public's eyes. The desire to explore new things can be utilized to benefit others for instance, by taking part in a school production. It can also be used to take risks that are healthy for example, like exploring sexual activity or other risky behaviors, provided that they are in a safe and secure environment.
adhd stimulant medication of physical growth could cause awkward stages in adolescence and feelings of self-consciousness or anxiety about the changes in their bodies. In certain traditions, such as those of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, adolescents could be a time when young people establish their place with their clans, families, nations, ancestors and country.
Relationships between teens and their friends can either be a source of support or conflict. The quality of these relationships is crucial for the health of adolescents and could be an important factor in their happiness and well-being. Relationships between adolescents and their parents can be a great source of support for them, particularly when they are able to work out problems in a non-confrontational way.