While the title itself raises eyebrows, the researchers themselves state that they were unable to conclude if the results were because of medication or the underlying depression. Also important to keep in mind is that this research is based on women who had prescriptions filled for SSRIs but does not appear to have checked to see if these women actually took the medication. Instead, they rely on data from a national registry. Read on…
Dr. Shosh Says…
Finally, treatment for the serious and potentially life-threatening illness of prenatal depression (for both mom and therefore baby) is being formally discussed. Fifteen percent of clinically depressed pregnant women try to take their lives – a bit more risky for the baby than mom taking an antidepressant, wouldn’t you say? If the pregnant woman can be non-depressed without a medication, that’s optimal. Some form(s) of treatment, however is essential. If natural and alternative approaches to wellness are not enough, it is regarded by those in the know to be safer for her (and her developing baby) to take an antidepressant than to remain depressed. Depression itself – it is quite clear from the research – crosses the placenta and alters the uterine environment causing negative consequences to the baby. In the latest research there appears to be low (0.9%) chance of a septal heart defect in babies whose mothers had taken certain antidepressants. However, what fear-mongers do not report, is that the researchers themselves could not be sure whether it’s the antidepressant or the underlying depression itself that caused the defect. Women need all relevant information and education about options for treatment during pregnancy so they can make the best decision for themselves and their family. Watch out for alarmists who are not interested in actual data – they are simply invested in promoting fear in women who are at their most vulnerable.
Tags: pregnant on prozac, prenatal depression, SSRI use in pregnancy
Thank you, Dr. Bennett for always handling the truth. I suffered PPD and
psychosis after my first birth. My husband and I hesitated for a year after
recovery to possibly go through that again, but with the help of counseling with,
Dr. Bennett, bioidentical progesterone therapy, and yes- an antidepressant during the first
trimester, last month of pregnancy, and nursing, I had no symptoms and my baby
is now a healthy and willful 4 year old!
Better safe than sorry. I like to say!!
Elaine –
What an amazing experience! I’m so happy you were able to have a positive postpartum experience after the birth of your second child. I had two episodes of PP OCD but managed to stave it off a third time around with counseling, meds, and the support of family and friends. What a whole new world that was for me!
Warmest,
Lauren Hale