Weekly Roundup for JULY 10, 2020: Recent Publications in Women’s Mental Health
Every week we review the most recent publications in women’s mental health, covering topics related to premenstrual symptoms, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, use of medications in pregnant and breastfeeding women, perinatal substance use, and menopausal mental health. Just a reminder that registration is open for our fall course on Psychiatric Disorders in Women: Diagnostic and Treatment Considerations Across the Female Lifespan. You can register here with MGH CME. This year [...]
Clinical Update 2020: Antipsychotic Medications and Risk of Gestational Diabetes
Given the number of younger women using atypical antipsychotic medications, there is an urgent need for more accurate data regarding the reproductive safety of these medications. One important question is whether these newer antipsychotic medications, which have been associated with an increased risk of metabolic syndrome and diabetes, may increase the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) when used during pregnancy. The findings have been somewhat mixed, with some, but [...]
Virtual Rounds with CWMH Extended through July
Over the past four months, the MGH Center for Women’s Mental Health has had the tremendous opportunity to host virtual rounds from 2-3pm EST via Zoom for all health professionals with an interest in reproductive psychiatry and women’s mental health. We have reached nearly 300 students and practitioners in 33 states, 3 Canadian provinces, and 5 additional countries. Invaluable contributions from our guests panelists, as well as the thoughtful questions [...]
Weekly Roundup for JULY 3, 2020: Recent Publications in Women’s Mental Health
Every week we review the most recent publications in women’s mental health, covering topics related to premenstrual symptoms, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, use of medications in pregnant and breastfeeding women, perinatal substance use, and menopausal mental health. The very last article on the list from Doretto and colleagues is an interesting one (free text available). It takes a deep dive into the relationship between polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and psychotic [...]
What is the Risk for Relapse After Stopping Antidepressants During Pregnancy?
For women taking antidepressants, how do we decide whether or not they should maintain their medication during pregnancy? Based on our previous research and clinical experiences, we know that many women who discontinue antidepressant therapy will relapse during pregnancy. Our decision is typically guided by the severity of the woman's illness. If she has had recurrent or severe depression, we are more likely to recommend continuing treatment during pregnancy. On [...]
How to Find Information on the Reproductive Safety of Medications
Last week, I met with a woman who was planning pregnancy. She had a long history of generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder and had done very well over the past 10 years on a regimen of citalopram (Celexa) and lorazepam (Ativan) as needed for sleep. She wanted to discuss alternative sleep medications because “my OB told me I couldn’t take Ativan because it’s a Category D medication”. The Pregnancy [...]