What are the risks for pregnant women who stop taking antidepressants?

Pregnant women who stop taking antidepressants are nearly twice as likely to experience a mental health emergency and have significantly more emergency department visits for behavioral health reasons.

What are the consequences of untreated depression during pregnancy?

Untreated depression in pregnancy can lead to preterm birth, low birth weight, increased neonatal intensive care admission, and a higher risk of pre-eclampsia for the mother, alongside potential risks to maternal well-being and even suicide.

Are S.S.R.I. antidepressants safe during pregnancy?

Robust observational data suggests that antidepressants, including S.S.R.I.s, are generally safe during pregnancy, and the risks associated with untreated depression are significant, though specific risks like paroxetine's link to cardiac malformations are considered.

Home / Health / Antidepressants in Pregnancy: Risks of Stopping Revealed

Antidepressants in Pregnancy: Risks of Stopping Revealed

12 Feb

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Summary

Stopping antidepressants nearly doubles mental health emergency risk for pregnant women.
Most women stopped medication, leading to over 500 more emergency visits.
Untreated depression poses significant risks to mother and baby.

Antidepressants in Pregnancy: Risks of Stopping Revealed

New research presented at a conference suggests that pregnant women who discontinue their antidepressants face nearly double the risk of a mental health emergency. The study, using insurance and pharmacy data from over 1,400 women in Pennsylvania, revealed that most pregnant individuals stopped their medication.

These women experienced over 500 more emergency department visits for behavioral health issues compared to those who continued treatment. Experts emphasize that while medication risks in pregnancy are often discussed, the dangers of stopping necessary treatment are equally significant.

Untreated depression during pregnancy can lead to severe consequences for both mothers and newborns, including preterm birth and increased risk of neonatal intensive care admission. For mothers, it can elevate the risk of pre-eclampsia and, in severe cases, contribute to maternal suicide.