Is TMS Safe During Pregnancy?
Pregnancy is a wonderful time in a woman’s life but can also bring symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or mood swings. There are a variety of options for women during this time in their life that are considered safe and effective. Taking medication during pregnancy is not always the first option, so finding one that feels comfortable to you is important. TMS while pregnant is considered a safe option for women. Many women have found relief with TMS Therapy during their pregnancy. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is used to treat depression along with other mental health disorders and can be used safely. The treatment usually lasts around six weeks and works by targeting specific areas of the brain that have gone sluggish with magnetic pulses. TMS focuses on the brain to help relieve symptoms caused by depression. A recently “published study looking at 26 children ages one to five years old, whose mothers had received TMS treatment during pregnancy, found there were no differences between the children born to women who had TMS during pregnancy and children born to women who did not undergo TMS.” Women who do not want to take medications or antidepressants can consider TMS Therapy as a safe alternative that works.
How Does TMS Work?
TMS Therapy stimulates the prefrontal cortex region of the brain with magnetic pulses that help improve your overall mood and help relieve symptoms of anxiety or depression. It is non-invasive and requires no downtime or medication. TMS therapy uses magnetic pulses to help increase brain stimulation. During your first TMS appointment, your doctor will determine the most effective stimulation intensity for you and the best placement for your magnetic coil. After that, the electromagnetic coil will be placed on your head, resembling an MRI machine for your brain that only reaches a few centimeters into the brain. This creates a magnetic field around the area of your brain that is responsible for mood regulation. The magnetic field then produces small electrical pulses that activate the portion of the brain that is responsible for releasing neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine which are depleted when women with major depressive disorder are suffering. TMS can help restore balance and provide relief for women with depression. Typically patients begin feeling better after three weeks of treatment but can start to feel better sooner.
Side Effects of TMS Therapy
TMS side effects are uncommon. Some mild symptoms that might occur could include:
- mild headaches (most common)
- lightheadedness
- scalp pain
- neck pain
- tingling
- facial twitching
- sleepiness
- altered cognition during treatment
Headaches are often the most common side effect of TMS and some have even experienced dizziness, tingling, or discomfort at the site of the stimulation. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own.
TMS Risks
TMS is considered safe and effective and has shown no known risks and is FDA-cleared. TMS Therapy is a great option if you are struggling with mental health issues during pregnancy. Speak with your doctor if you are already at risk of seizures regarding TMS Therapy options and whether or not they may be a realistic treatment for you.
18 Benefits of TMS Therapy During Pregnancy
- TMS is a safe and effective treatment for depression during pregnancy.
- TMS therapy does not require antidepressant medication supplementation.
- TMS has few side effects and is generally well-tolerated by pregnant women.
- TMS is a non-invasive procedure with no known risks.
- TMS can be an effective treatment for depression that does not respond to other treatments, such as medication.
- TMS is often covered by insurance plans across the United States.
- TMS can be completed in a short amount of time, so it is convenient for busy women.
- TMS often makes individuals feel better and improves their moods during pregnancy.
- TMS encourages additional bonding with your baby during pregnancy.
- TMS can provide relief from the symptoms of depression and help you enjoy your pregnancy.
- TMS can increase the likelihood of great sleep during pregnancy.
- TMS can increase your energy levels during pregnancy.
- TMS can help you focus and concentrate during pregnancy.
- TMS can improve your overall mental health during pregnancy.
- TMS can help you feel more prepared for motherhood and the challenges of parenting.
- TMS can help you feel less alone and more supported during pregnancy.
- TMS can help you build a positive relationship with your healthcare provider.
- TMS can help you feel more confident and empowered during pregnancy.
If you are struggling with depression during pregnancy, talking to your doctor about whether TMS therapy is right for you is a good first step. TMS is a safe and effective treatment option that can help you feel better and enjoy your pregnancy. Search for TMS Therapy providers near you.
