This free webinar features Sura Alwan, MSc, PhD, from the University of British Columbia and Executive Director of the PEAR-Net Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting healthy fetal development through evidence-based information, research, and advocacy. Dr. Alwan is a leading expert in the field of perinatal pharmacology and maternal health, with extensive experience studying the effects of medications on pregnancy outcomes.

In this session, Dr. Alwan provides the most up-to-date information on the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) during pregnancy. SSRIs are among the most commonly prescribed medications for depression and anxiety, yet their use during pregnancy can raise important questions for both healthcare providers and expectant parents. Drawing from the latest research, Dr. Alwan discusses what is known about SSRIs and fetal development, the potential risks and benefits of treatment, and how this information can guide decision-making in clinical care and family planning.

This webinar is designed to support healthcare professionals, researchers, and families alike in navigating the complex considerations surrounding mental health treatment during pregnancy. Participants will come away with a deeper understanding of the evidence and practical strategies to support maternal and child health.

In this episode of the MotherToBaby Podcast, host and genetic counselor Chris Stallman welcomes Dr. Emily Caffrey, a certified health physicist at the Health Physics Society and the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Together, they dive into one of the most frequently asked topics: how radiation exposure may impact breastfeeding.

Dr. Caffrey explains the difference between ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, details how imaging procedures like X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs interact with the body, and addresses concerns around contrast agents and radioactive tracers. The episode also covers what breastfeeding women working around radiation should know, including practical safety tips and case-by-case considerations.

Key Takeaways:

• Diagnostic imaging procedures do not make breast milk radioactive or require stopping breastfeeding
• Some radioactive tracers or therapeutic treatments may require temporary or permanent changes to breastfeeding plans, depending on the specific agent and dose
• Always inform your healthcare provider that you’re breastfeeding and ask questions about any upcoming procedures
• Expert help is available—don’t rely on internet searches alone

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• MotherToBaby.org
• Health Physics Society
• American College of Radiology Guidelines
• Call 866-626-6847 or text 855-999-3525 to speak with a MotherToBaby specialist

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As the famous song croons, “Summertime and the living is easy….” Summer is finally here! COVID-19 has interfered with outdoor gatherings, but people are starting to venture out…with good social distancing, of course! Outdoor activities mean more sun exposure, and healthcare providers recommend protecting your skin from the sun. These recommendations stem from concerns that the sun’s UV (ultraviolet) rays can damage the skin and increase the risk for skin cancer and early aging. Studies show that an exposure as short as 15 minutes in duration can cause skin damage.

Sunscreen and Pregnancy

Pregnant women often ask MotherToBaby about whether sunscreen is ok to use during pregnancy. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates sunscreen ingredients to ensure safety and effectiveness. The FDA is currently in the process of updating requirements, so stay tuned for news on that front. The FDA reminds us that, “Given the recognized public health benefits of sunscreen use, Americans should continue to use sunscreen with other sun protective measures as this important rulemaking effort moves forward.”

What’s in Sunscreen?

There are two types of UV rays that cause skin damage: UV-A and UV-B. Sunscreens that protect against both types of rays are called ‘broad spectrum’. There are many different active ingredients in sunscreens sold in the US. Some contain chemicals like oxybenzone, an agent banned in some areas because it is harmful to coral. It used to be thought that because they were applied topically to the skin, sunscreens did not end up in the bloodstream. However, several recent studies have found that there is some absorption of sunscreen chemicals through the skin, although in relatively small amounts. Many of these sunscreen chemicals have not been studied very well in pregnancy, although they are not known to have a negative effect on the pregnancy or baby.   Aside from active sunscreen ingredients, many products contain other ingredients such as CBD oil (made from the marijuana plant) that have not been studied well in pregnancy. Read the label! Apply your sunscreen properly and then wash your hands.

Alternatives

One alternative is to use a mineral sunscreen such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. These are physical blocking agents and stay on top of the skin. That means they are not absorbed through the skin and may be a good choice. These mineral sunscreens are best applied as a lotion rather than a spray since they may be a hazard when inhaled.

Also, limit your exposure by using a hat and other protective clothing, and not going out in the sun during peak hours (between 10a – 2p).

Our last bit of advice? Enjoy your summer!

Recent headlines about Hantavirus have raised new questions about animal-associated infections and their potential impact during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This webinar features maternal-fetal medicine specialist Dr. Sarah Dotters-Katz and explores Hantavirus alongside other important animal-associated infections, including lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), rabies, and Salmonella exposures linked to poultry and reptiles.

Designed for healthcare professionals who counsel pregnant and breastfeeding women, this webinar reviews what is currently known about maternal illness, pregnancy outcomes, breastfeeding considerations, prevention strategies, and patient counseling recommendations. Whether you’re a physician, nurse, pharmacist, genetic counselor, teratogen information specialist, or other healthcare provider, you’ll gain practical insights to help answer patient questions and navigate real-world exposure scenarios.

Questions about COVID-19 and GLP-1 medications are common in the pregnant/postpartum population. Newborn care specialists, who provide in-home infant care and parent education during the postpartum period, can assist families in navigating these topics.

Designed specifically for newborn care specialists, this webinar will help identify some commonly asked questions about COVID-19 and GLP-1 medications, apply communication strategies that support families and their questions while staying within professional scope, and recognize when family questions require referral to healthcare providers.

Chris Stallman, MLS, MS is a certified genetic counselor, Program Director of the University of Arizona Genetic Counseling Graduate Program, and Director of MotherToBaby Arizona. As a teratogen information specialist with MotherToBaby, Chris supports patients, families, and healthcare providers in navigating questions about medications and other exposures during pregnancy and breastfeeding and promotes evidence-based, accessible health information.