Approximately seventy percent of all women experience hot flashes and/or night sweats (also called vasomotor symptoms) during the menopause transition (Stearns et al. 2002).  Until recently, estrogen therapy was the treatment of choice for most women who sought treatment for hot flashes.  Since the results of the Women’s Health Initiative in 2002 noted risks of [...]

While many women who smoke successfully quit smoking during pregnancy, most of these women return to smoking within 12 months of delivery.  Several studies have suggested that certain factors may increase the risk of postpartum relapse, including unwanted pregnancy, multiparity, and stressful life events.  Two recent studies indicate that postpartum depressive symptoms may also increase [...]

About 15% of women suffer from depression during pregnancy, and many reports have suggested that depression during pregnancy may have negative effects on the fetus.   A new study from researchers at the University of Michigan indicates a link between depression during pregnancy and infant sleep problems. This study examined sleep patterns in 18 healthy, full-term [...]

Women with bipolar disorder are at increased risk for recurrence of illness during pregnancy.  Therefore, many women with bipolar disorder elect to continue treatment with medications during pregnancy after weighing the risks and benefits of various treatment options with their physicians.  Lamotrigine (Lamictal) is an anticonvulsant used to treat bipolar disorder. While the safety data [...]