Women with Epilepsy at Higher Risk for Perinatal Depression
A recent study examined the prevalence and risk factors for perinatal depression and anxiety in a group of Norwegian women with epilepsy (n = 706) compared to pregnancies in all women without epilepsy (n = 106,511).
Acupuncture for Postpartum Depression
85 women with postpartum depression were randomized to receive acupuncture plus psychological intervention (five sessions per week) or treatment with fluoxetine (20 mg per day). The two groups were treated continuously for six weeks. Depressive symptoms were measured using the Hamilton Depression scale (HAMD).
The Impact of Infertility Treatment on Mood: Some Women are More Vulnerable
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. While we know that changing levels of gonadal hormones, like estrogen, may affect mood and anxiety levels, we have very little information on the psychological effects of the hormone-modulating drugs used in assisted reproductive technology (ART).
FDA Finalizes Guidelines for Pregnancy and Lactation Labeling Information
Last week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published a report outlining the new standards for how to present information regarding the safety of medications used during pregnancy and breastfeeding: “The new content and formatting requirements will provide a more consistent way to include relevant information about the risks and benefits of prescription drugs and biological products used during pregnancy and breastfeeding.” These changes will be put into effect by June 2015.
Vitamin D and Menopausal Symptoms
A recent study has explored the association between vitamin D levels and vasomotor symptoms in a group of postmenopausal women.
Medications and Pregnancy: A Focus on the Pharmacokinetics
We have an abundance of articles which address the impact of psychotropic medications on pregnancy. Much less research, however, has focused on how pregnancy may affect how these medications work. Physiologic changes take place during pregnancy which may affect the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination of medications. These pharmacokinetic changes may result in lower psychotropic drug levels and, in some cases, loss of clinical effectiveness. A recent review summarizes how pregnancy [...]