Great news for expecting moms who are on antidepressants! A recent study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry in Advance found that babies born to mothers taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) showed comparable weights, lengths, and head circumferences to those born to mothers who did not use antidepressants. Although newborns of mothers on these medications were shorter at birth, this size difference vanished by the time they reached two weeks old.
Traditionally, prenatal stress and depression have been associated with preterm births and lower infant weights, which can lead to health risks later on. Prenatal depression can also impact a mother’s nutrition and care during pregnancy. Previously, there had been worries that continuing antidepressant treatment throughout pregnancy could hinder a baby’s growth during their first year. In fact, earlier studies suggested that maternal depression could negatively affect infant growth. However, this new research contradicts those findings. It also showed that growth measurements for infants born to depressed mothers who didn’t take SSRIs were similar to those of babies born to mothers without depression.
Insights from the Research
Lead researcher Dr. Emily Carter from Northwestern Medicine stated, “Women often want to understand how their mental health or medications during pregnancy might affect their baby’s birth and ongoing growth and development. This information can help women weigh the pros and cons of staying on their antidepressants while pregnant.” Dr. Carter also mentioned that stopping SSRIs around conception can lead to a high rate of relapse, so these findings may encourage women to continue their medication without significant worries.
However, it’s crucial to note that this study focused solely on SSRIs and their impact on growth rates. While it suggests that SSRIs do not adversely affect baby growth, it doesn’t claim that all antidepressants are safe during pregnancy. Always consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for your health and your baby’s well-being.
Join the Conversation
Have you taken SSRIs during your pregnancy? What are your thoughts on this study? For more insights, check out this article on our other blog post.
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Conclusion
In summary, this new study indicates that SSRIs may not negatively impact a baby’s growth, providing reassurance for mothers managing depression during pregnancy. However, always discuss any concerns with your doctor.
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