“What is the effect of antidepressants on a baby in the womb?”
My wife is taking antidepressants and we have discussed starting a family. I am worried on the impact these medicines can have on the future baby. Is my worry justified?
8 Answers
Generally, there are specific antidepressants that can be safe; the prescribing doctor will have to evaluate the risk/benefit factors in deciding. If the psychiatric medications are being prescribed by someone other than her OB-GYN, then they should collaborate.
Dear Sir,
I can validate your concerns. As I am a psychologist I would suggest that you and your wife talk to the prescribing Psychiatrist or Primary care your concerns. As they will be more able to guide you regarding this issue. In case your wife is seeing a psychologist, you can also explore other ways of dealing with depression during the pregnancy. I would recommend that the two of you read "Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy" that is supposed to be "the Clinically proven drug-free treatment for depression." The author is Dr. David D. Burns. Another good source is "Mindful way through Depression" and it is by Williams, Teasdale, Segal, and Kabat-Zinn.
Take care,
Dr. Lata Sonpal
I can validate your concerns. As I am a psychologist I would suggest that you and your wife talk to the prescribing Psychiatrist or Primary care your concerns. As they will be more able to guide you regarding this issue. In case your wife is seeing a psychologist, you can also explore other ways of dealing with depression during the pregnancy. I would recommend that the two of you read "Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy" that is supposed to be "the Clinically proven drug-free treatment for depression." The author is Dr. David D. Burns. Another good source is "Mindful way through Depression" and it is by Williams, Teasdale, Segal, and Kabat-Zinn.
Take care,
Dr. Lata Sonpal
Many antidepressants can impact a baby during pregnancy. It is highly recommended that she discuss her desire to have a baby with her doctor to determine if she can be safely taken off medication or if the dosage can be reduced.
Sure, you must consult with your medical doctor.
I am concerned too. I would talk to her doctor asap.
Medications vary in their risk of birth defects at different stages of pregnancy. I recommend that you and your wife meet with her doctor to discuss your concerns.
Read this link - should help your understanding of your concern:
https://www.webmd.com/baby/pregnancy-and-antidepressants#1
https://www.webmd.com/baby/pregnancy-and-antidepressants#1
Ask your doctor about that and research yourself. I personally don’t think that will affect the baby, especially if the mom needs it. Post-partum depression can happen while carrying a baby.
