ADHD Medication During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding<br /><br />The decision to stop or continue ADHD medications during breastfeeding and pregnancy is a difficult decision for women suffering from the condition. There aren't enough data on how long-term exposure may affect a fetus.<br /><br />A study recently published in Molecular Psychiatry demonstrates that children exposed to ADHD medication during pregnancy do not develop neurological problems such as impaired hearing or vision, febrile seizures, or IQ impairment. The authors acknowledge the need for more high-quality studies.<br /><br />Risk/Benefit Analysis<br /><br />Women who are pregnant and take ADHD medication should evaluate the benefits of using it against the potential risks for the baby. Doctors don't have enough data to give clear advice, but can provide information on the risks and benefits to aid pregnant women in making an informed decision.<br /><br />A study published in Molecular Psychiatry concluded that women who were taking ADHD medication in early pregnancy were not at higher risk of fetal malformations or structural birth defects. Researchers conducted a large sample-based case control study to examine the prevalence of structural defects that were major in infants born to mothers who used stimulants during pregnancy. Clinical geneticists, pediatric cardiologists and other experts reviewed the cases in order to make sure that the classification was correct and to reduce any bias.<br /><br />The research conducted by the researchers had some limitations. Researchers were unable in the beginning to distinguish the effects caused by the medication from the disorder. This makes it difficult for researchers to determine if the few associations observed between the groups exposed were due to the use of medication, or if they were affected by the presence of comorbidities. The researchers also did not examine long-term outcomes for offspring.<br /><br />The study did reveal that babies whose mothers had taken ADHD medications during pregnancy were at a greater risk of being admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) than those who whose mothers did not take any medication or taken off their medication prior to or during pregnancy. The reason for this was central nervous system disorders. The increased risk of admission was not influenced by the stimulant medication used during pregnancy.<br /><br />Women who took stimulant ADHD medications during pregnancy also had a higher chance of having to have an emergency caesarean section or having a baby that scored low on the Apgar scale (less than 7). These increases appeared to be unrelated to the type of medication taken during pregnancy.<br /><br />Researchers suggest that the minor risks posed by the use of ADHD medication during pregnancies in the early stages can be offset by greater benefits for mother and baby of continuing treatment for the woman's disorder. Physicians should discuss the issue with their patients and, if possible, help them develop strategies to improve coping skills that may minimize the effects of her disorder on her daily life and relationships.<br /><br /><br /><br />Medication Interactions<br /><br />Doctors are increasingly confronted with the dilemma of whether to maintain treatment or stop during pregnancy as more women are diagnosed with ADHD. Often, these decisions are made in the absence of any evidence that is clear and definitive regardless, so doctors must weigh their knowledge, the experiences of other doctors, and what research suggests on the subject and their own judgments for each individual patient.<br /><br />Particularly, the issue of potential risks to the infant can be difficult. Many of the studies on this subject are based on observational evidence instead of controlled research and their findings are often contradictory. Most studies focus on live births, which can underestimate the severity of teratogenic effects leading to abortions or terminations of pregnancy. The study that is discussed in the journal club addresses these issues by analyzing both data on live and deceased births.<br /><br />Conclusion A few studies have found a positive correlation between ADHD medications and certain birth defects however, other studies haven't established a link. Most studies have shown an unintended, or slightly negative, impact. Therefore, a careful risk/benefit assessment is required in every case.<br /><br />It isn't easy, but not impossible for women with ADHD to stop taking their medication. In fact, in a recent article in Archives of Women's Mental Health, psychologist Jennifer Russell notes that stopping ADHD medication during pregnancy can lead to increased depression, feelings of loneliness and family conflict for patients with ADHD. In addition, a decrease in medication can affect the ability to complete work-related tasks and safely drive that are crucial aspects of a normal life for a lot of people with ADHD.<br /><br />She suggests women who are uncertain about whether to continue or discontinue medication due to their pregnancy should consider educating family members, friends, and coworkers on the condition, its effects on daily functioning, and the advantages of continuing the current treatment plan. It can also aid in ensuring that the woman feels supported as she struggles with her decision. Some medications can pass through the placenta. If the patient decides to stop taking her ADHD medication while pregnant and breastfeeding, it is crucial to be aware that the medication could be passed on to her baby.<br /><br />Birth Defects and Risk of<br /><br />As the use of ADHD medication to treat the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) increases there are concerns about what impact the drugs could have on fetuses. Recent research published in the journal Molecular Psychiatry has added to the body of knowledge on this subject. With two massive data sets researchers were able look at more than 4.3 million pregnancies and see whether the use of stimulant medications increased the risk of birth defects. Although the risk overall remains low, the scientists did find that first-trimester exposure to ADHD medications was associated with a slightly higher rate of certain heart defects, like ventriculo-septal defects (VSD).<br /><br />The researchers of the study found no connection between early medication use and congenital abnormalities like facial clefting, or club foot. The findings are in line with previous studies revealing the presence of a small, but significant increase in the risk of heart malformations among women who began taking ADHD medications prior to the time of pregnancy. The risk grew in the later part of pregnancy, as many women begin to discontinue their ADHD medication.<br /><br />Women who took ADHD medications in the first trimester of pregnancy were also more likely to undergo caesarean section, low Apgar score after delivery and a baby who required breathing assistance during birth. <a href="https://output.jsbin.com/qutewimuda/">visit link</a> of the study were not able to eliminate bias due to selection because they restricted the study to women with no other medical conditions that might have contributed to the findings.<br /><br />The researchers hope their research will serve to inform the clinical decisions of physicians who encounter pregnant women. They advise that while a discussion of risks and benefits is important, the decision to stop or maintain medication should be based on each woman's needs and the severity of her ADHD symptoms.<br /><br />The authors caution that, even though stopping the medication is an option to think about, it isn't recommended due to the high rate depression and mental health issues for women who are pregnant or recently gave birth. Additionally, research suggests that women who stop taking their medications will have a difficult time adjusting to a life without them after the baby is born.<br /><br />Nursing<br /><br />It can be a stressful experience becoming a mother. Women who suffer from ADHD who must work through their symptoms while attending physician appointments and making preparations for the arrival of a child and getting used to new routines at home may face a lot of challenges. Therefore, many women choose to continue taking their ADHD medication throughout the pregnancy.<br /><br />The risk to breastfeeding infant is minimal because the majority of stimulant medications is absorbed through breast milk at low levels. The rate of medication exposure will differ based on dosage the medication is administered, its frequency and the time of day. Additionally, individual medications enter the baby's system differently through the gastrointestinal tract as well as breast milk and the impact of this on a newborn is not yet fully known.<br /><br />Some doctors may decide to stop stimulant medication during a woman's pregnancy due to the absence of research. This is a complicated decision for the patient, who must balance the benefit of continuing her medication against the possible risks to the foetus. As long as more information is available, doctors can ask pregnant patients if they have an background of ADHD or if they plan to take medication during the perinatal stage.<br /><br />Numerous studies have proven that women can continue taking their ADHD medication in a safe manner during pregnancy and while breast-feeding. In response, a growing number of patients are choosing to do this. <a href="https://telegra.ph/10-Undeniable-Reasons-People-Hate-ADHD-And-Anxiety-Medication-11-17">click the next site</a> have found after consulting with their doctors that the benefits of continuing their current medication far outweigh any risk.<br /><br />Women with ADHD who are planning to breastfeed should seek the advice of an expert psychiatrist prior to becoming pregnant. They should discuss their medication with their doctor, and the pros and cons of continuing treatment. This includes non-pharmacological strategies. Psychoeducation is also required to help pregnant women suffering from ADHD understand their symptoms and the root cause, learn about available treatment options and reinforce existing coping strategies. This should be a multidisciplinary approach including obstetricians, GPs and psychiatry. The pregnancy counselling should consist of the discussion of a plan for management for both the mother and child, and monitoring for signs of deterioration, and the need for adjustments to the medication regimen.<br /><br />