New Recommendations Call for Iodine in All Prenatal Vitamins
In the developing baby, iodine is necessary for thyroid function and normal brain development. According to a recent Lancet study, even children born to women with mild-to-moderate iodine deficiency during pregnancy are at increased risk for lower IQ and reading ability (assessed at age 9). The most severe effects were observed among children born to women with severe deficiency.
Case Series: Mirtazapine (Remeron) in Pregnancy and Lactation
While we have adequate data to support the use of SSRI antidepressants during pregnancy, there is less data regarding other classes of antidepressants. A new case series documents the outcomes of infants exposed to mirtazapine (Remeron).
Infertility Treatment May Increase the Risk of Postpartum Depression
While many women complain of psychological distress during infertility treatment, it has been somewhat unclear if the anxiety and depression women may experience is related to having to undergo infertility treatment or to the hormonal agents that are used as part of the treatment, or a combination of the two. Recent studies have attempted to identify risk factors for mood and anxiety emerging within the context of infertility treatment. In a small [...]
Topiramate (Topamax) in Pregnancy May Affect Fetal Growth
This is a paper I missed from 2014, but I think this study adds some important information to the review we posted on topiramate a few weeks ago.
Ethnic Minorities at Greater Risk of Depression during Pregnancy
While various studies have recently examined the prevalence of depression during pregnancy, few of these studies have examined how being an ethnic minority may influence the risk of antenatal depression. Â A new study from Oslo, Norway suggests that certain ethnic minorities may have a higher risk.
You Asked: Is Smoking While Breastfeeding Safe?
This is one of the most common questions sent in to our website. Many women ask if it is safe to smoke while they are breastfeeding. Smoking is relatively common during pregnancy, with about 10% of all women smoking at some point during their pregnancy. The rates are even higher among women with psychiatric illness. While many women may be able to stop smoking or reduce their intake during pregnancy, most women resume smoking during the postpartum period.  And women who suffer from postpartum depression are at even higher risk for smoking relapse.