Is it safe to take antidepressants during pregnancy?

General types of antidepressants

The monoamine hypothesis proposes that depression is caused by an imbalance (typically a deficiency) of monoamine neurotransmitters, which was first presented in the 1950s (namely serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine). Hence antidepressants are generally grouped into these categories and a few examples each.

Safe or not for pregnant ladies

The decision to use antidepressants while pregnant is made after weighing the risks and benefits. The most common worry is usually the chance of birth abnormalities as a result of antidepressant use. The risk of birth abnormalities and other issues in children born to moms who used antidepressants during pregnancy is extremely low. However, the choices are made based on the discussions between mothers and healthcare personnel.

Neonatal adaptation syndrome, which can cause increased jitteriness, irritability, and respiratory distress (difficulty breathing), among other symptoms, affects about 30% of babies whose mothers use SSRIs. Doctors aren’t clear if the baby’s withdrawal from the SSRI after birth or prior exposure to the drug caused the problem. However, there is no evidence that stopping or reducing your medication near the end of your pregnancy lessens your baby’s risk of experiencing these symptoms. Changing your treatment may also raise your chances of postpartum relapse, especially if you have severe depression.

It’s still unclear if antidepressant usage during pregnancy increases the risk of autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in offspring. However, the majority of studies have found that the risk is very low, and others have found that there is no danger at all. More investigation is required.

A recent study reveals a relationship between antidepressant usage during pregnancy, particularly venlafaxine and amitriptyline, and a higher risk of gestational diabetes. More investigation is required.

Antidepressant effects on the developing fetus have been studied, however, the results have been varied and unconvincing. Antidepressant exposure’s long-term effects on development and behavior are still unknown. However, studies have revealed no effect on IQ, behavior, mood, attention, or activity level in children exposed to antidepressants while in the womb.

In fact, untreated mental illness puts a developing fetus at risk. Depressed women are less likely to receive adequate prenatal care and are more likely to engage in harmful or dangerous activities such as smoking and alcohol misuse. Mental illness has a direct impact on newborn babies such as possibilities of leading to premature birth or low birth weight. Cortisol levels in newborns born to depressed moms are linked to an increased risk of depression, anxiety, and behavioural disorders later in life.

Other than medication, any other ways to treat depression during pregnancy?

Counseling and psychotherapy with some outdoor activities or hobbies are believed to be good complementary treatments to antidepressants. Your doctor will strive to keep your fetus away from the medicine as much as possible. During the first trimester, this can be accomplished by providing a single medicine at the lowest effective dose.

What to discuss with the doctor?

Before you do, consider the following questions (and remember, you should never stop medication without consulting your physician first).

1. What is the severity of my illness? According to a study published in Epidemiology, women who had four or more major depressive episodes before pregnancy or an episode within the last six months are more likely to relapse if they stop taking their medication during pregnancy.
2. Have I ever gone off my medicine and then relapsed? Some women are aware that if they stop taking their medication, they will become ill.
3. Have I gone to see a therapist?

When you’re considering pregnancy, talk to your doctor about any drugs that aren’t recommended for pregnancy or breastfeeding. To avoid complications for you and your baby, express your concerns regarding medicine selection, dosages, and types.

Regardless, seeking professional therapy is still the best option if you’re struggling with depression. Trust yourself and your doctors while making decisions. Your doctors, like you, want the greatest possible outcome for you and your kid.. Ask a Doctor.