Antidepressants are a type of medication that comes in use to treat people who have depression. They work by boosting the levels of certain chemicals in the brain. There are different types of antidepressants, but they all work similarly.
The usage of antidepressants during pregnancy and breastfeeding links to an increased risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and autism spectrum disorder. However, new research suggests that the risk may be higher when mothers with depression take antidepressants during pregnancy than when they don’t take antidepressants at all. There are several treatment centers for pregnant addiction in Florida.
Some women with severe depression may need to take these medications while pregnant or breastfeeding because they can’t function without them. In these cases, it’s essential for doctors to carefully weigh the risks and benefits before making any treatment decisions.
Antidepressants During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding – Are They Safe?
The use of antidepressants during pregnancy is controversial. On the one hand, they lower the risk of miscarriage. On the other, they link to congenital disabilities and preterm labor cases. In addition, they may increase the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). These questions have led many women to wonder if antidepressants should be taken while pregnant and breastfeeding.
Understanding Depression
Depression is a mood disorder marked by feelings of sadness, loneliness, hopelessness, guilt, anger, or fatigue. Depression affects about 350 million people worldwide. Symptoms begin gradually and worsen over time. Common symptoms include feeling sad, anxious, or guilty; having trouble sleeping; eating less than usual; losing interest in activities once enjoyed, and thinking about suicide.
Why Do Women Take Antidepressants While Pregnant?
Women who take antidepressants while pregnant are doing what their doctors recommend. Studies show that antidepressants help prevent miscarriage, premature labor, and low birth weight. Many studies also suggest that antidepressants can decrease the risk of SIDS in infants. However, some antidepressant medications carry risks for unborn babies and mothers. Side effects of these drugs include increased risk of bleeding and infection, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness, fainting, blurred vision, muscle pain, sexual problems, and sleep disturbances.
How Does Taking An Antidepressant Affect Your Baby?
If you take an antidepressant while pregnant, it can affect your baby’s brain and nervous system. Your baby could develop abnormalities in its heart, lungs, eyes, ears, nose, mouth, or stomach. Taking an antidepressant after birth, your baby might experience withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, sleeplessness, tremors, seizures, and even coma.
Is It Okay to Stop Taking Antidepressants After Giving Birth?
It is best not to stop taking antidepressants until your doctor tells you to do so. Stopping can cause withdrawal symptoms in both you and your baby. You may need to taper off slowly, however. Talk to your doctor in Florida before stopping any medication.
Should You Tell Your Doctor About Your Use Of Antidepressants?
You should tell your doctor if you are currently taking any prescription drug, including an antidepressant. They can help you decide whether to continue using antidepressants while pregnant.
Where To Get Help
Talk to your doctor if you feel you need treatment for depression. Your doctor can refer you to a mental health professional treating depression.
The takeaway
Finding the course of action best for you and your infant can be challenging. Despite the instances of pregnant addiction in Florida, this is perhaps another reason you must reach out and communicate according to convenience. Discussing your feelings with a spouse or close friend might be beneficial if you can do so. Speaking with those who have gone through comparable circumstances to yours might be helpful.
