Exploring the Link Between Prenatal Adversity and Adolescent Psychiatric Risk
We have long been concerned about the impact of prenatal stress on fetal development and subsequent risk for developmental problems and psychiatric morbidity. Various studies have demonstrated an association between maternal depression and anxiety during pregnancy and increased risk for psychiatric morbidity in exposed children. It is important to recognize that many women experience multiple psychological and medical adversities during pregnancy.  It is not known how being exposed to a [...]
Weekly Roundup for MARCH 5, 2021: 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. For more detailed descriptions of many of these topics, you can sign up to receive our weekly CWMH NEWSLETTER which comes out every Thursday.  And don't forget to visit ESSENTIAL [...]
Essential Reads: Lithium and Pregnancy
While the use of lithium has been in decline over the last 20 years, lithium continues to be a useful and highly effective mood stabilizer for women with bipolar disorder, especially those with a history of mania. We have long been aware of its teratogenic effects, with some studies documenting an increased risk of cardiovascular malformations. Nonetheless the absolute risk of adverse events is relatively low, and lithium continues to be [...]
Probiotics for Prenatal Depression and Anxiety: Underscoring the Need for More Research
Although we have data on the reproductive safety of various medications used to treat anxiety, many women would understandably prefer to avoid medications when possible. Many women ask about alternative treatments, including dietary supplements, herbal remedies and probiotics. While these treatments are often considered to be “safer” because they are natural, it is important to recognize that their production is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, and often we [...]
Breastfeeding Difficulties May Affect Bonding: How Can We Help New Moms?
Although new mothers describe breastfeeding as a meaningful and fulfilling aspect of caring for their infants, breastfeeding is also a common source of stress and anxiety. A recent study suggests that difficulties with breastfeeding may also impact mothers’ bonding with their infants.  In this study, researchers followed 121 mothers with newborn infants (age = 23-45 years, mean age = 32.31 ± 4.79 years). Every month, the participants completed self-assessments of bonding. [...]
Essential Reads: Using Neuroimaging to Visualize the Impact of Maternal Depression on the Developing Brain
When a woman comes in for a consultation regarding the use of medications during pregnancy, we spend most of our time reviewing the potential risks of exposure to medications during pregnancy. However, we must also include a discussion of the effects of untreated psychiatric illness in the mother on the developing child, for there is a growing body of literature which demonstrates that what happens in utero, while the fetus is [...]