Pregnancy can be an exciting time, but for some women, the changes their bodies go through can make the experience less than ideal. Medications may help, but they may not always be the right choice, leaving mothers searching for other options.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is an innovative, science-backed treatment that has gained momentum in recent years, but is TMS safe during pregnancy? This article walks you through the research, how TMS works, and what expectant mothers should know when weighing their treatment choices.
Can Depression Affect Your Pregnancy?
The hormonal, physical, and emotional changes that come from pregnancy can increase the risk of developing what’s called perinatal depression, which is a type of depression that occurs during pregnancy or in the year after giving birth. Research shows depression affects about 1 in 7 women.
Symptoms of Depression During Pregnancy
Some women notice emotional changes first, while others notice changes in their body or behavior. Common symptoms include:
- Feeling sad, hopeless, or overwhelmed
- Restlessness or irritability
- Crying frequently
- Guilt or feelings of worthlessness
- Thoughts of death or suicide
- Sleeping too much or not enough
- Eating more or less than usual
- Trouble concentrating or remembering things
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Losing interest in favorite activities
- Persistent fatigue or lack of energy
- Headaches, stomach problems, or other aches that don’t go away
If you’re pregnant and recognize these signs in yourself, it’s imperative that you reach out for help. Talk to your doctor if your symptoms are getting worse, and if you feel like you might hurt yourself, call 9-1-1 right away or reach out to the Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-943-5746 for immediate support.
Standard Mental Health Treatments for Pregnant Women
When depression develops during pregnancy, treatment gets a little complicated. Many women are cautious about taking medication, so doctors may be more inclined to start with non-pharmacotherapy approaches first. Psychotherapy, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT), is considered a first-line treatment. Both therapies have been shown to reduce symptoms of depression during pregnancy.
If symptoms are severe or don’t improve with therapy, certain medications may be prescribed. Some SSRIs are considered safe during pregnancy, but decisions are made on a case-by-case basis, weighing the benefits against potential risks.
Lifestyle changes may also help:
- Gentle exercise and staying active
- Eating balanced and nutrient-rich meals
- Good sleep hygiene
Pregnant women may also benefit from complementary treatments, like:
- Community support groups
- Mindfulness practices
- Massage
- Prenatal yoga
- Acupuncture
Can You Get TMS Therapy if You’re Pregnant?
Research has linked continued use of antidepressants during pregnancy to potential risks, such as lower infant birthweight. These fears have led women to look into alternative treatments that don’t require drugs.
TMS uses gentle magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain responsible for regulating mood. Since it doesn’t involve anesthesia or medication, it avoids the concern of drug transfer to the baby during pregnancy, though more long-term studies are needed to confirm efficacy and safety.
How Does TMS Work for Pregnant Women?
During a TMS session, magnetic pulses are delivered to the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, which often shows less activity in those with depression. These pulses create small electrical changes in brain cells and encourage those cells to fire more consistently. Over time, this stimulation helps retrain the brain’s mood pathways.
Researchers believe the benefits come from two main processes:
- Increased neuroplasticity: The brain becomes more flexible and able to form new and healthier connections.
- Meta-plasticity improvements: TMS may improve how the brain regulates its own plasticity, meaning potential long-term benefits from treatment.
TMS stimulates the brain directly rather than altering body chemistry, making it a potentially safer alternative for pregnant women.
Does TMS Have Side Effects or Risks?
The most serious concern with TMS is the possibility of a seizure; however, this side effect is rare. Providers still take precautions and carefully screen patients before treatment.
Another question is whether the magnetic field could affect the developing fetus. Current research shows that the strength of the field used in TMS is far below the safety limits recommended for pregnant patients. Still, the long-term effects of these fields require more research.
For most patients, side effects are mild and temporary. These may include:
- Headache
- Tingling or tapping sensation at the site of stimulation
- Scalp discomfort during or after the session
If needed, symptoms like headaches can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Benefits of TMS During Pregnancy
Unlike other treatments, TMS during pregnancy doesn’t require anesthesia, involve needles, or call for recovery time. Most patients can go right back to their daily activities after each session.
Clinical studies are showing encouraging results:
- Women receiving TMS during pregnancy have reported less depression symptoms, with higher response and remission rates compared to placebo.
- One case study described a woman at 24 weeks gestation who had not improved with medication. After 46 TMS sessions over 9 weeks, her depressive symptoms and suicidal thoughts nearly resolved. Both she and her baby remained healthy after delivery.
- A randomized controlled trial of 22 pregnant patients found that those receiving TMS showed better outcomes than those receiving placebo treatment. Hormone levels stayed stable, and there were no major maternal or fetal side effects reported.
While larger trials are still needed, these findings suggest that TMS can reduce symptoms of depression during pregnancy in a safe and effective way.
Call Today to Discuss TMS Therapy If You’re Pregnant
At Cura Behavioral Health, we understand the unique challenges that come with treating mental health while expecting. Our team offers TMS for women who want effective treatment without added risks to their baby.
Every pregnancy is different, which is why our providers take the time to listen, so we can create a plan together that supports your health and your baby’s health. With evidence-based care and compassionate guidance, you can focus on preparing for motherhood.
If you’re interested in learning whether TMS therapy is right for you, contact Cura Behavioral Health today to schedule a consultation.
Sources:
- Depression during pregnancy – March of Dimes
- National Maternal Mental Health Hotline – HRSA
- Psychiatric Treatment in Pregnancy: A Narrative Review – Journal of Clinical Medicine
- Association of antidepressant continuation in pregnancy and infant birthweight – Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology
- Treating maternal depression: understanding barriers and facilitators to repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation treatment in Canada-a protocol – Frontiers in Psychiatry
- Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Pregnancy: Efficacy, Safety, and Future Implications for Perinatal Mental Health Care – Brain and Behavior
- Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Pregnancy: Efficacy, Safety, and Future Implications for Perinatal Mental Health Care – Brain and Behavior
- Prolonged transcranial magnetic stimulation in a pregnant patient with treatment-resistant depression: a case report – Journal of Medical Case Reports
- Essential Reads: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Perinatal Depression – MGH Center for Women’s Mental Health
