Intrusive thoughts and panic attacks were a constant struggle for Tinelle Windham during her first three pregnancies. When she was pregnant with her second child, a doctor suggested she start taking Zoloft, an antidepressant known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). However, Windham was hesitant. She was concerned about potential side effects and the impact it could have on her baby.
“I was really hesitant about taking medication, so I tried to tough it out. I did see a therapist for a short period, but ultimately, I toughed it out,” said Windham, who resides in southern Maryland. “It was a very difficult experience trying to manage without medication.”
Many pregnant individuals facing anxiety and depression also choose to forgo or discontinue antidepressants due to fears of potential harm to their developing babies. However, experts emphasize that the risks of untreated mental health conditions, especially during pregnancy, often outweigh the minimal and uncertain risks associated with antidepressants. In fact, a 2024 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that mental health conditions, including suicides and drug overdoses, are now the leading cause of pregnancy-related deaths.
Despite the recommendations from experts, a recent discussion hosted by the Food and Drug Administration focused heavily on the perceived risks of SSRIs during pregnancy. The panel mainly consisted of clinicians and researchers who hold a skeptical view of antidepressants, some of whom may benefit financially from promoting this skepticism.
It is crucial to weigh the potential risks and benefits of antidepressant use during pregnancy on a case-by-case basis. While concerns about medication safety are valid, the importance of adequately treating mental health conditions during pregnancy cannot be overstated. Consultation with healthcare providers and mental health professionals can help individuals make informed decisions about managing their mental health while pregnant.
