Essential Reads: The Use of Sedative-Hypnotic Drugs During Pregnancy
More study is needed regarding the safety of sedative-hypnotic medications during pregnancy.
Understanding the Complex Relationship Between Infant Sleep and Maternal Sleep and Mental Health
Changes in maternal sleep and circadian rhythms during pregnancy are associated with infant sleep problems and maternal depression and anxiety.
Preliminary Data Raises Concerns About Modafinil Use in Pregnancy
Modafinil (brand name Provigil) is a wake-promoting agent which is used to treat sleepiness due to narcolepsy, shift work sleep disorder, or obstructive sleep apnea. It is also used to in others settings, often [...]
You Asked: Can Modafinil (Provigil) be Used to Treat Menopausal Fatigue
Each year in the United States, the menopause transition is experienced by 1.5 million women. With this change in the hormonal milieu comes troublesome symptoms, including vasomotor symptoms, decreased libido, insomnia, changes in mood, fatigue, [...]
New Research from the CWMH: Armodafinil for Menopause-Related Fatigue
Several recent articles indicate that the burden of menopausal symptoms is greater than generally perceived. About 80% of women experience vasomotor symptoms (VMS) – hot flashes and night sweats — as they transition into the [...]
You Asked: Is It Safe to Take Melatonin During Pregnancy?
Many women experience some degree of sleep disturbance during pregnancy. For a significant number of women, the sleep disruption may be so severe as to require some type of intervention. In a previous post, we discussed the use of different types of medications to treat insomnia during pregnancy. While these drugs are highly effective, many women with sleep problems inquire about the use of “natural” agents, such as melatonin, during pregnancy.
New Research from the CWMH: Escitalopram and Sleep in Midlife Women with Vasomotor Symptoms
Selective serotonin and serotonin-norepinephrine inhibitors (SSRIs and SNRIs) have been shown to be effective for the treatment of hot flashes. However, these agents may carry certain side effects, including sexual side effects and sleep disturbance. These two side effects may be particularly concerning to peri- and postmenopausal women who, in addition to having vasomotor symptoms, are more likely to experience sexual dysfunction and sleep disruption than premenopausal women.
Melatonin in Pregnancy: Is it Safe?
Many women experience some degree of sleep disturbance during pregnancy. For a significant number of women, the sleep disruption may be so severe as to require some type of intervention. In a previous post, we discussed the use of different types of medications to treat insomnia during pregnancy. While these drugs are highly effective, many women with sleep problems inquire about the use of "natural" agents, such as melatonin, during pregnancy.
Treatment of Insomnia During Pregnancy
Most women experience some degree of sleep disturbance during pregnancy, and for a significant number of women sleep disruption may be quite severe. There are many different causes for sleep disturbance during pregnancy, and choosing the appropriate intervention relies on an accurate diagnosis of the problem.