Light Therapy For Depression During Pregnancy

Depression during pregnancy is a difficult problem since women are.

Light therapy for depression during pregnancy.

April 5 2004 bright light therapy may relieve depression during pregnancy possibly as well as antidepressants would. The light boxes which are created for sad are safe for pregnant woman as it filters out the uv rays making it completely safe the light with the intensity of 7 000 10 000 lux is said to be beneficial in reducing the intensity of depression however the light boxes that are created for skin related issues must not be used as they will end up being. During the perinatal period treatment of depression which could affect the mother and child during pregnancy and lactation poses a complex problem for both mother and clinician. Is light therapy safe for pregnant women.

Generally 5 10 of pregnant women suffer from depression. Light therapy is a way to treat seasonal affective disorder sad and certain other conditions by exposure to artificial light. Children who have been exposed to maternal depression during pregnancy have a higher risk of adverse birth outcomes and more often show cognitive emotional and behavioural problems. Bright light therapy blt is a promising treatment for pregnant women with depression based on several theoretical and clinical considerations which will be discussed below.

Depression during pregnancy is common and has major health implications for the mother the fetus and the family. During light therapy you sit or work near a device called a light therapy box. Light therapy may improve symptoms in pregnant women with depression. Therefore investigating non pharmacological approaches to treating depression during pregnancy is urgent and relevant for both mother and child.

On this website we have reviewed numerous treatments for affective disorders in pregnancy including psychotropic medications and several forms of psychotherapy. While the study was small the findings are promising for doctors who have been hesitant to treat with antidepressants out of. Depression during pregnancy is a common and high impact disease. Though it has also been shown to be effective for other forms of depression as well and other conditions related to disturbed sleep such as jet lag or shift work.

Treatment of depression during pregnancy that is efficacious reliable safe and with minor side effects is an urgent unmet clinical need. Sad is a type of depression that occurs at a certain time each year usually in the fall or winter. Light therapy may provide this somatic non pharmaceutical alternative.