By causing uncertainty, many illnesses go untreated or undertreated by physicians and soon-to-be-mothers alike (Lyerly, Little, & Faden, 2009). However, this reason is the perfect opportunity to include pregnant women in research because it can lead to further significant harm to both subjects. For example, mental illnesses, such as depression, have a significant impact with relapsing if medication is stopped. Women who discontinued the use of medication had a relapse in major depression at 68% compared to those who continued the medication throughout pregnancy at 25% (Cohen et al. 2006). Furthermore, effects on the fetus can include “premature birth, low birth weight, fetal growth restriction, and postnatal complications” (Lyerly, Little, & Faden, 2009, p. 5). If at all possible, medication should be tested in order to prevent relapses in major depression and possible issues with the fetus in the coming future. There should not be as many concerns about taking medications without first weighing the risk of not taking the
By causing uncertainty, many illnesses go untreated or undertreated by physicians and soon-to-be-mothers alike (Lyerly, Little, & Faden, 2009). However, this reason is the perfect opportunity to include pregnant women in research because it can lead to further significant harm to both subjects. For example, mental illnesses, such as depression, have a significant impact with relapsing if medication is stopped. Women who discontinued the use of medication had a relapse in major depression at 68% compared to those who continued the medication throughout pregnancy at 25% (Cohen et al. 2006). Furthermore, effects on the fetus can include “premature birth, low birth weight, fetal growth restriction, and postnatal complications” (Lyerly, Little, & Faden, 2009, p. 5). If at all possible, medication should be tested in order to prevent relapses in major depression and possible issues with the fetus in the coming future. There should not be as many concerns about taking medications without first weighing the risk of not taking the