Although pregnancy is one of the most joyful times of a woman’s life, as many as 20 percent experience depression at this time. This is not only difficult for the expectant mother, but it can harm the health of the fetus.
In a wrongheaded approach to dealing with their depression, depressed mothers have a greater tendency to drink, smoke, and eat a less nutritious diet. Of course, treating symptoms of depression is important for the health of both the mother and baby, but should antidepressants be utilized? In the past it was considered safe to take antidepressants during pregnancy, however now some question their safety.
Can Antidepressants Cause Damage During Pregnancy?
What are the possible risks of antidepressant use during pregnancy? Concern is rising that utilization of antidepressants during pregnancy may increase the risk of birth defects in a fetus. One class of drugs, SSRIs, has come under scrutiny recently because recent studies indicate that they are linked to a slightly greater risk of birth defects. This is especially true of a drug known as Paxil. One study indicated that the babies of women who ingested Paxil during the first trimester of pregnancy were twice as likely to have structural heart defects.
It does not seem to be any less dangerous to take antidepressants during the last half of pregnancy. Research has indicated that using Paxil during pregnancy increases the risk of a pulmonary hypertension, a lung problem. Without prompt treatment, it can be fatal in 10 percent of victims, and some surviving infants suffer permanent neurological damage.
While less data is available about other classes of antidepressants, they may also be harmful if taken during pregnancy. Tricyclic antidepressants, which were previously used frequently in treating depression, have been linked to limb deformities, although this has not been confirmed by more recent research. Wellbutrin is one antidepressant that does not seem to cause issues during pregnancy.
Alternatives to Utilization of Antidepressants While Pregnant — What options does a pregnant woman have since there are potential risks when antidepressants are used during pregnancy? At this point, it seems that Wellbutrin is a safe option for women who require medication.
Sometimes stress relief techniques like yoga, biofeedback or counseling can be used to treat depression during pregnancy without resorting to prescription medications.
What is the Final Word Regarding Taking Antidepressants While Pregnant?
Never stop taking antidepressant drugs without consulting your physician because dizziness, headache, and sleep issues may result. The best thing to do is to discuss medication options with your physician.
Tags: depressed mothers, depression, pregnancy
