Prenatal exposure to valproate is linked to increased risk of autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, lower IQ, and intellectual disability, especially at higher doses.
In this prospective cohort study, the researchers observed an association between maternal depressive symptoms during pregnancy with slower rates of fetal growth.
At 7 years of age, children exposed to maternal depression during pregnancy or SSRI antidepressants exhibited similar changes in white matter architecture.
Postpartum SSRI treatment mitigated the negative associations between PPD and later maternal depression, partner relationship satisfaction, and child externalizing problems and ADHD symptoms up to 5 years after childbirth.
Prenatal exposure to prescription stimulants was not associated with an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in exposed children.
Prenatal exposure to ADHD medications, mostly methylphenidate, was not associated with an increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders or growth restriction in exposed children.
Maternal SSRI use during pregnancy may be associated with altered brain development in children; however, this study cannot fully rule out contributions of confounding genetic and enviromental factors.
Data from an ongoing pregnancy registry offers reassurance that benzodiazepines do not appear to have major teratogenic effects.
Two studies - one using neuropsychological assessments, another examining performance on standardized testing - show no association between prenatal antipsychotic exposure and neurodevelopmental outcomes.
The largest study to date observes no increase in risk of autism or ADHD in children with prenatal exposure to benzodiazepines.
