Depression During Pregnancy Forum - Pregnancy and Antidepressants

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Q: Pregnancy and Antidepressants

asked by: usoa on November 22nd, 2008

New User

I have an appointment with my OB/GYN to talk about this very topic. But, that is still a couple of weeks off. My question is if there is anyone out there who was on antidepressants and now has children. Are they healthy? Are they not? Was it because of the antidepressants? The ironic issue I am wrestling with is a woman that isn't on antidepressants could have a sick baby, or one with developmental issues. Yet, for me, if I do ending up taking antidepressants while pregnant, how would I ever forgive myself if my baby is sick. I will never know if my decision was the one that will affect the rest of their life. I know they say some antidepressants are safe; but how do you know? You don't, and you won't, and I can't seem to cope with that. I have been six months off of my medication and we still are not pregnant. I know I have to go back on antidepressants, but then what?

Replies(10)

busby

replied on November 24th, 2008

New User

Hi I am in a similar situation. I am trying to concieve my 3rd baby. i am on ciprimal 20 mgs a day and I am not sure I would cope without taking the meds while pregnant.
My doctor said it was ok to take them but there is a a risk to the baby... And I would never forgive myself if something did go wrong. I have a friend that did take anti deppressants while pregnant and everything went fine she was on zoloft though.
If i get any information I wil pass it on.
xoxoxo Jaye

proudmama

replied on January 22nd, 2009

Supporter

After my first was born I had PPD and ended up taking prozac and went off of that because of the side effects. 4 months later I got pregnant with my second and didnt take any anti depressants until I was about 7 or 8 months pregnant although my doctor had prescribed me it months earlier, I was just scared to take them because of the stuff I had read.I was scared it was going to hurt my child. My doctor prescribed me Lexapro. And boy if I didnt start taking them before my daughter was born, I dont know if I could have made it. My daughter was a happy and healthy baby and I feel so better taking them.

I know how you feel being scared about taking them. Its either take them and worry about your baby or not take them and not be well. So its such a hard decision. Why cant anything just be so simple in life you know?

mommy2be09

replied on January 23rd, 2009

New User

I'm 18 weeks pregnant and have been on Cymbalta...I am trying to go off of it because I am not liking all the side affects...but if i have to keep taking it I'll be fine..Pretty much if something is going to be wrong with your baby it will on or off of meds...thats what my dr said and it makes sense..

resq46

replied on February 25th, 2009

New User

My husband and I are trying to conceive and I have major depressive disorder from what I am told I will never get off my antidepressants. I am scared to death about taking them when i get pregnant. but...i have done LOTS of research and i feel a little better plus i have a friend who just had a baby and was on the same pill I am..Prozac. her baby came out perfectly healthy. but i understand where you are comin from i would feel sick if my child has to suffer because of my problems...

resq46

replied on February 25th, 2009

New User

kerryn

replied on February 25th, 2009

Experienced User

i was on an anti depressant with my son, and he is a healthy, normal, slightly advanced 8 month old. talk to your dr before concieving and he/she can always change your meds if it isnt safe

smiliemama

replied on July 25th, 2009

Experienced User

Sometimes it's better (for your health as well as the baby's) for you to be on meds...especially if you have anxiety/mood swings/etc as bad as I did. My issue actually got worse not being on meds. But I know what you mean too... You don't want your child to suffer cuz of choices you make/made. Pray about it and follow your gut, and talk to your doc. They've gone to school to know how to properly assist you. However, if you feel you're getting faulty advice from your doc, seek a second opinion or FIND ANOTHER DOCTOR!

LostInEverything

replied on August 25th, 2009

New User

is there a way to get the meds without your husband knowing? i dont think i will be able to handle a whole 9 months of this, im only 7 weeks. its hurting my relationship with my husbND COMPLETELY. he complains cuz i sleep all day, dont change out of PJs, dont eat anything till he gets home n then complaining(that one idk about hes crazy) and how i dont have a job.

however he FREAKS out if i miss a day of prenatals and talks about how im gunna mess the baby up. i KNOW he will flip if he knows about anti depressents.

is there a way to convince him otherwise? idk

smiliemama

replied on August 26th, 2009

Experienced User

You can't convince men like him of anything...much less that antidepressants would be better for you AND your baby's health. Stress/anxiety is just as bad! I would seek advice from a health provider. If you're pregnant, you should be seen by a doctor...just make one of those appts without your husband. You have the right to do that. It's your body...your right to privacy. Ask a doc while been "seen for pregnancy" about antidepressants for pregnant women. Most of them have samples they can start you on to even see if they work. Good luck! Not an easy place to be...I know. Sad

ilovelucy72

replied on September 18th, 2009

New User

I am trying to get pregnant and am on Cymbalta, Lamictal and Wellbutrin. Three class C drugs. My psychiatrist says that I need to be off of them during pregnancy. Though I know its going to be very very hard. I have major depression and most of the time cant function without my meds.

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