Overview
Depression during pregnancy is not discussed as commonly as postpartum depression, but it does exist. According to the American Pregnancy Association, up to 20 percent of women suffer from depression during pregnancy. It is important for women to report symptoms of depression to their doctors or midwives. It is a serious condition that can affect the health of the baby, yet it can be safely treated.
Risk Factors
There are several risk factors for depression during pregnancy, including family or personal history of depression, a high-risk pregnancy, previous unresolved birth trauma, an unstable personal life and previous fertility treatment. Sometimes the extreme hormonal fluctuations of a pregnancy alone are enough to send a woman into a deep depression. Chances of a relapse are even higher for women who tapered off antidepressants just prior to conception, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.
Considerations
Acupuncture, yoga, cognitive behavioral therapy and diet all offer some relief from depression and are generally considered to be safe treatment options, but they may not be enough for some sufferers. Some women may benefit from taking antidepressants in order to help them feel good enough to function at even the most basic level. It is up for her to decide with her birth professional.
Drugs Approved
Most antidepressants are rated “C” by the FDA, meaning either they have an adverse effect on animals and there are not adequate studies on pregnant women or no studies have been conducted in animals or pregnant women. Zoloft, generic name sertraline, Prozac, generic name fluoxetine, and Wellbutrin, generic name bupropion, are all commonly prescribed to pregnant women. Paxil, generic name paroxetine, is rated “D,” however, meaning it may cause heart defects or fatal lung problems in newborns.
Benefits
The consequences of a depressive relapse during pregnancy may be far greater than those of taking an antidepressant. Untreated depression may lead to irresponsible behavior and poor health, both of which can directly harm the fetus. A woman who feels good releases more endorphins, hormones that also floods the fetus with feelings of well-being.
Warnings
The National Institute of Mental Health points out that experts are still conflicted on the use of antidepressants during pregnancy. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns against their use in the third trimester in order to lessen the chances of possible withdrawal symptoms in the newborn and states that as many as 2 out of 1,000 babies born to mothers who take antidepressants during pregnancy develop pulmonary hypertension.
