While depression is a relatively common occurrence during the perinatal period, suicide is less common in pregnant and postpartum women than in other populations. Â Because suicide in this population is rare, we have limited information [...]
Several weeks ago, the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) issued recommendations that all pregnant and postpartum women should be evaluated in order to determine risk for depressive illness and suggests that women at increased [...]
While there is research to support the reproductive safety of many antidepressants, many woman and their providers ask about alternatives to traditional antidepressants in women who are pregnant or planning to conceive. Â In a [...]
In the earliest studies, postpartum depression was described an episode of depression associated with childbirth, typically emerging within the first three months after delivery. Â As more research has been carried out, we have learned [...]
While we have considerable data on the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) during pregnancy, most of this research focuses on the risk of congenital malformations in exposed children. Â We have far less [...]
Pregnancy-associated mortality, defined as the death of a woman during pregnancy or within one year of the termination of pregnancy, is increasing in Massachusetts. Â In 2012, there were 30.4 deaths/100,000 live births. In 2014, the [...]
This study is something to keep in mind when we evaluate neonatal outcomes in mothers taking psychotropic medication. Â We typically consider maternal, but not paternal, characteristics as factors which may affect neonatal outcomes; however, this [...]
In treating pregnant women with mood or anxiety disorders, we tend to focus primarily on the reproductive safety of psychotropic medications; however, it must be recognized that withholding or withdrawing pharmacologic treatment for depression or [...]
Because folate deficiency in pregnant women has been associated with an increased risk of neural tube defects, including anencephaly and spina bifida, it is recommended that all women take folic acid supplements before and during [...]
The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology now recommends that women be screened for depression during pregnancy in addition to screening during the postpartum period. Â Because depressive symptoms during pregnancy have been associated with worse [...]
