Do Antidepressants Increase The Likelihood Of Complications During Pregnancy?

10:39

June 12, 2012

A new study from researchers at Yale University adds to the growing body of evidence that anti-depressants may elevate the risk of prenatal complications (AP).

For many women, pregnancy means making choices. Should you eliminate caffeine from your diet? Eat more fish? Change your exercise routine? All of the above?

A new study from researchers at Yale University may have you asking yourself another question. The study adds to a growing body of evidence that says antidepressants may elevate the risk of complications during pregnancy — including miscarriages, neonatal seizures and premature births. However, some doctors say the risk is small and does not justify leaving a depressed mother unmedicated — especially when abruptly stopping antidepressants can cause other complications.

So what should a pregnant mother confronting depression do?

Joining Radio Boston to help answer this question are two doctors who recently discussed the subject on CommonHealth.

Guests:

Dr. Orit Avni-Barron, psychiatrist and the founding director of the Women’s Mental Health Service at The Fish Center for Women's Health, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Dr. Adam Urato, assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology, Tufts University School of Medicine

More:

This segment aired on June 12, 2012.