Lauren Osborne

Psychiatrist Lauren Osborne, an expert in perinatal psychopharmacology, dives into the complex interplay of postpartum psychosis and bipolar disorder. She shares insights on the use of mood stabilizers, particularly lithium, in breastfeeding mothers. Osborne emphasizes that sleep disruption often influences breastfeeding choices more than drug exposure. She also outlines the relative risks of medications like lamotrigine and lithium during lactation, advocating for early lithium treatment while managing risks for both mother and infant.

Dr. Lauren Osborne, a perinatal psychiatrist from Weill Cornell Medicine, dives into the intersection of antidepressants and breastfeeding. She reassures listeners that most psychiatric medications are compatible with nursing mothers. They discuss how postpartum women often respond more quickly to treatment and the importance of selecting medications based on prior successes. Dr. Osborne highlights the factors influencing how drugs enter breast milk and stresses that maternal treatment needs should take priority, especially for vulnerable infants.

Dr. Lauren Osborne, a perinatal psychiatrist from Weill Cornell Medicine, unpacks the complexities of postpartum OCD versus postpartum psychosis. She reveals that while intrusive thoughts about infant harm are common in OCD, they indicate serious risks in psychosis. The conversation includes effective ways to ask mothers about these thoughts safely and highlights key diagnostic differences. Dr. Osborne emphasizes the importance of accurate diagnosis for proper treatment and safety, providing insights into effective therapies for both disorders.