Trusted Information for Healthy Pregnancies
depression
Autism Spectrum Disorders and SSRIs
Jul 18th
It is now estimated that autism spectrum disorders (ASD) affect about 1% to 2% of the population. Data derived from twin and sibling studies indicate that ASD is highly heritable. While genetic factors clearly play an important role, other studies point to an interplay between environmental and genetic factors in the etiology of this disorder. [...]
What is the Impact of Depression During Pregnancy?
Jul 12th
In a recent study by Gerardin and colleagues, the authors note that more research has been done to demonstrate the consequences of postpartum depression than depression during pregnancy (also called antenatal or prenatal depression). Infants born to mothers with depression during pregnancy have been demonstrated to have lower scores on motor behavior and more crying [...]
Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors and Fertility (Part 2): What Can Basic Science Tell Us?
Jul 5th
Serotonin (5-HT) is one of the neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation and has been implicated in the development of mood and anxiety disorders. Serotonin transporters (SERT) facilitate the transfer of serotonin into neurons; serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants bind to these transporters and appear to exert their effect on mood by inhibiting the reuptake of [...]
Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors and Fertility (Part 1): A Clinical Perspective
Jun 30th
We previously reported that paroxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), may affect sperm motility and may thus have a negative impact on male fertility. Many women who are planning a pregnancy question whether SSRIs and other antidepressants may affect fertility; this is obviously a particularly important issue for those who are having difficulty conceiving. [...]
Clinical Case: Should SSRIs Be Tapered Prior To Delivery?
Jun 13th
Ms. T is a 33 year old woman with a history of recurrent depression who is 32 weeks pregnant with her first pregnancy. She has remained on her citalopram (Celexa) throughout pregnancy and has been well. Her gynecologist has encouraged her to enquire about coming off the Celexa prior to delivery in order to avoid [...]
American Academy of Pediatrics Recommends Screening for Postpartum Depression
Jan 10th
Postpartum depression is experienced by 10-15% of women and carries risks to both mother and baby. Untreated maternal depression is associated with negative outcomes for children including behavioral problems, cognitive or developmental delays and impaired attachment. Treatment of a mother’s depression can improve not only her own functioning and quality of life, but can improve [...]
Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SRI) Use Associated with Reduced Intention to Breastfeed
Oct 26th
Given the potential health benefits of breastfeeding on both mother and baby, the U.S. Public Health Service for Healthy People 2010 set a goal to have 75% of mothers breastfeed in the early postpartum period and 50% of mothers to continue breastfeeding to 6 months by the year 2010 (US Dept of Health and Human [...]
Risk of Depression is High in the Parents of Young Children
Oct 5th
The New York Times published an interesting article on the high risk of depression among new parents. While we are now more aware of depression in mothers after delivery and making greater efforts to screen for postpartum depression, the article points out that both parents are at risk for depression and that the risk extends [...]
Risk of Depression is High in the Parents of Young Children
Oct 5th
The New York Times published an interesting article on the high risk of depression among new parents. While we are now more aware of depression in mothers after delivery and making greater efforts to screen for postpartum depression, the article points out that both parents are at risk for depression and that the risk extends [...]
The Importance of Proper Dosing of Antidepressants during Pregnancy
Aug 30th
Pregnancy and the postpartum period is a time of increased risk for depression. Therefore, women who are treated with antidepressant medications must consider whether or not to stay on medication during pregnancy. Despite reassuring data regarding the reproductive safety of various antidepressants, a woman may prefer not to continue medication during pregnancy due to concerns [...]