In a given year, about 10% of mothers in the United States experience a major depressive episode (MDE). Roughly translated, this means about 1 in 10 children is exposed to maternal depression each year (Ertel [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
When obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) occurs during the postpartum period, women may experience typical OCD symptoms related to contamination and cleaning, catastrophic thoughts and checking, or symmetry and ordering. However, many women with postpartum OCD, as [...]
Despite decreasing rates of alcohol and tobacco use during pregnancy, the use of cannabis use during pregnancy is on the rise. We are seeing an increasing number of women in our clinic who are using [...]
Women with schizophrenia may experience worsening of their symptoms as they transition into the menopause.Â
Postpartum psychosis affects 1 to 2 per 1000 women after childbirth. About 40% of women who experience postpartum psychosis do not have a history of psychiatric illness; however, women with bipolar disorder or a history [...]
Women with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often discontinue psychostimulant medications during pregnancy, especially if they have milder symptoms. While this approach makes sense in terms of limiting unnecessary exposures in women with what appears to [...]
The omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are essential components of the human diet and have a broad range of health benefits. Furthermore, they may also be beneficial [...]
Many women ask whether taking antidepressants may increase the risk for miscarriage or spontaneous abortion. Some, but not all, studies have demonstrated an increased risk of miscarriage among women who use antidepressants. However, it has [...]
