Psychiatry & Psychotherapy Podcast Pregnancy Planning for Patients Taking Psychiatric Medications or with a Mental Health History
Jun 23, 2023
In this engaging discussion, Dr. Kristin Lasseter, a reproductive psychiatrist and founder of Reproductive Psychiatry and Counseling, shares her expertise on mental health during pregnancy. Joined by medical student Cara Jacobson, they highlight the critical balance of managing psychiatric medications while considering the health of both mother and baby. Topics include the risks of untreated mental illnesses, the importance of compassionate communication in healthcare, and the role of nutrition and physical activity in promoting mental wellness during pregnancy and postpartum.
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Addressing Patient Guilt Kindly
- Address patient guilt gently when discussing risks of untreated depression in pregnancy.
- Emphasize mental illness is a medical condition, not a personal failing, to reduce shame.
Medication vs Illness Risks
- Older studies showed antidepressants risks but recent well-controlled data show minimal medication risks.
- Untreated mental illness during pregnancy poses significant risks often greater than medication risks.
SSRIs and Newborn Adaptation
- Inform patients about neonatal adaptation syndrome from SSRIs, occurring in about 30% of exposed babies.
- Assure that symptoms resolve within days and usually do not cause long-term harm.