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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Why should I see a Perinatal Psychiatrist?

    Related Topics
    Antenatal Anxiety Antenatal Depression
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  • Dr Cathrin Kusuma

    Psychiatrist

    I am an experienced psychiatrist specialising in perinatal psychiatry. I completed specialist medical training with North Western Mental Health in Melbourne. I completed advanced specialist … View Profile

    Consideration of medications in pregnancy is very much about weighing up the pros and cons of treatment vs non treatment.

    Treatment means taking the medication, and thus exposing the mother and baby to any possible adverse effects, which may be mild or severe, reversible or not. However, the benefit would be that the illness being treated would be managed, thus optimising maternal MH and allowing the mother to parent to the best of their ability.

    Non Treatment means not taking the medication and thus not exposing mother or baby to any adverse effects of the medication. However, the condition would not be treated which may then lead to other problems and future adverse outcomes.

    Thinking this through is a complex process which requires a thorough understanding of the risks of medication, as well as the risks of not treating. It is a very personal process which requires reflection of your individual circumstances and can be stressful due to the conflicting information online and even amongst medical professionals. This is where Dr Kusuma can help, as she completes a thorough assessment and can go through the medication information in detail, specific to your needs. Ultimately, the choice of whether to take medication or not is yours.

    We can also discuss any concerns you have about the impact your condition may have in the post partum period.

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