Antidepressants in pregnancy and breastfeeding

Abstract

Maternal depression and anxiety during pregnancy and the early years of an infant's life cause substantial problems to the mother, her infant and her family. Suicide is an ever-present risk with depression along with adverse effects on infant growth and birth weight. Balancing these risks against accumulating evidence of the effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors on the fetus and infant presents a challenge to the treating doctor. Careful explanation to the woman and her partner of the risks of both the condition and the treatment, using a biological, psychological and social treatment approach, is likely to provide the most benefit.