Perinatal Psychopharmacology

Book excerpt: This book focuses on recent advances in research and practical recommendations regarding the use of psychotropic drugs during pregnancy and lactation, two important social and psychological life events for women. In addition to the social context, including the addition of a new family member, many women experience the occurrence or recurrence of psychiatric disorders during the perinatal period. Psychiatric disorders during this period can have negative effects on the fetus, infant and other children in the family, and can result in functional impairment among mothers. The book offers a comprehensive overview of psychopharmacological treatments for nearly all specific psychiatric conditions (e.g. bipolar disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder) and includes chapters on clinical approaches to treating these disorders. As such, it will appeal to a wide readership, including psychiatrists, obstetricians, gynecologists and pediatricians.