Are Antidepressants Safe During Pregnancy?
You’ve probably heard it before: “You should avoid all medications during pregnancy.” But this advice isn’t always so black-and-white when it comes to mental health. If you feel the waves of depression washing over you while pregnant, you might be wondering whether antidepressants are safe to take. Are there any risks? Or what would happen if you didn’t do anything to treat your depression?
These aren’t easy questions, and the answers aren’t always clear-cut. You want information that’s honest, evidence-based, and judgment-free to help you make decisions. And that’s exactly what you’ll find here.
A mental health professional can break down the safety of taking antidepressants during pregnancy, as well as discuss alternative treatment options for this time. This page can also help, breaking down:
- The ins and outs of depression during pregnancy
- What research says about antidepressant medication safety in pregnancy
- Potential benefits and risks of taking antidepressants during pregnancy
- Alternative treatment options
Whether you’re already taking antidepressants during pregnancy or are just starting to consider your options, this guide is here to help you make informed decisions about your care with confidence.
Understanding Depression During Pregnancy
Before we dive into the safety of antidepressants, let’s take a whistle-stop tour of the ins and outs of depression during pregnancy.
What Is Depression?
Prenatal depression is a type of depression that begins during pregnancy and can happen any time up until you give birth. Postnatal depression, on the other hand, happens after you give birth. Perinatal depression describes a depression that occurs any time from the start of pregnancy up to around a year after giving birth.
Regardless of when depression hits, the most common symptoms will be similar. You may feel sad, hopeless, or have lost interest in doing anything, making it very hard to carry out your usual daily tasks.
How Common is Depression in Pregnancy?
It’s normal to feel alone in your feelings if depression hits during pregnancy. However, around one in seven women feel depressed either during pregnancy or within the first year of giving birth.1,2
What Happens When You Don’t Treat Depression?
This question is an important one to ask. If you don’t get help for depression while pregnant, it doesn’t just affect your mental health. It can also impact physical well-being, such as by increasing the risk of preeclampsia and eclampsia. Additionally, if depression symptoms are severe, they may lead to suicidal thoughts.
Some studies have found that untreated depression in a pregnant person can lead to early labor and their baby having a reduced birth weight. It can also make you more likely to experience postnatal depression, which could hurt your relationship with your newborn baby.3 So, as is clear, depression doesn’t just affect you: it could also affect your unborn child.
Importance of Depression Intervention During Pregnancy
Perinatal depression is a common mental health challenge for many pregnant women and new mothers. However, this doesn’t mean it isn’t serious: it needs attention. Without treatment, it can have serious effects on both you and your baby. There are many treatments available for depression, and one that comes up frequently in conversation is medication for perinatal depression. Next, we’ll look at what antidepressants you may be prescribed, and then dive into the science and safety behind them.
Antidepressants During Pregnancy
Antidepressants are a type of medication commonly prescribed to help people cope with symptoms of depression or anxiety. There are a few different types of antidepressants, and each one works differently to relieve mental health symptoms. The most commonly prescribed antidepressants are:
- Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)
- Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
- Atypical Antidepressants (such as Mirtazapine or Trazodone)
Taking antidepressants during pregnancy can help manage symptoms of depression; lifting your mood and making you feel calmer. Even the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) states on its website that some women need to take medicines during pregnancy for health problems like depression.4 However, all medications can come with risks. So, what is the safest mental health medication in pregnancy? Let’s take a look at what science tells us below.
Risks of Antidepressants During Pregnancy
SSRIs and Pregnancy
Given that SSRIs are the first choice of treatment for depression, it’s natural to wonder about the safety of SSRIs during pregnancy. Most studies show that SSRIs aren’t linked with birth defects, risks of miscarriage, or any developmental delay in babies.
However, some studies have shown that the SSRI, Celexa, can slightly increase the risk of admission to neonatal ICU. Also, Prozac is slightly linked to the risk of preterm birth. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists also recommends avoiding Paxil during pregnancy.
SNRIs and Pregnancy
The effects of SNRIs on pregnancy have been researched less. However, venlafaxine doesn’t seem to increase the risk of birth defects, but other SNRIs haven’t been studied as much.
TCAs and Pregnancy
Tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline and nortriptyline have been researched in pregnancy and show no increased risk of birth defects or developmental delay. However, there may be a slight increase in the risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, hypoglycemia, and convulsions.
What Are Safe Antidepressants During Pregnancy?
There isn’t a simple answer to the question “Which is the safest antidepressant during pregnancy?” Often, it will depend on your personal circumstances: whether this is your first experience of depression, if you have taken antidepressants before, and if you have, whether they were effective for you.
Your doctor can talk you through the different medication options, including the risks associated with each. The bottom line is that depression needs treatment for the health of yourself and your child, and antidepressants can be an effective treatment option for some.
Antidepressant Side Effects During Pregnancy
Taking antidepressants during pregnancy can have the same side effects as taking them when you are not pregnant. Each type of medication has its own specific set of potential side effects, but some of the most common from SSRIs (the usual first-line treatment) are:7
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Headache
- Sweating
- Sleep problems
- Dry mouth
- Feeling nervous, anxious, or restless
- Changes in appetite
These common side effects should ease after the period of adjustment, but if they persist, it’s important to check in with your provider. They may discuss lowering your dose or trying you out with a different medication.
Antidepressants and Birth Defects
Many women worry about medication harming their baby, especially when it comes to birth defects. However, the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) has found no antidepressants to be associated with birth defects, so the risk of fetal harm is low.8 However, antidepressants may increase the chance of neonatal adaptation syndrome, which we discuss below.
Antidepressants and Neonatal Adaptation Syndrome
If you take antidepressants while pregnant, specifically in the last trimester, your baby might show some signs of neonatal adaptation syndrome. This is because they are not getting the chemicals they are used to from your body. The symptoms of neonatal adaptation syndrome can last for a couple of weeks after birth, and include:9
- Jitters
- Poor feeding
- Irritable behavior
- A breathing condition called respiratory distress
These symptoms tend to be mild and are often managed without treatment. However, if neonatal adaptation syndrome is a concern for you, your healthcare provider can discuss ways to manage it.
Seeking Mental Health Support
Overall, there may be some low risks to your unborn child from taking medication. However, there are also plenty of risks to both you and your baby from not seeking help for depression.
Discussing antidepressant use with OB-GYN or mental health professionals is a great way to discover your treatment options. If you’re unsure how to bring up the conversation, you can find our guide on talking to your OB-GYN about mental health here. You need to do what is best for you and your baby, whether that is using antidepressants during pregnancy or finding other treatment options that work for you.
Antidepressant Alternatives During Pregnancy
Medication isn’t the only treatment available if you are experiencing depression during pregnancy. There is a range of resources and treatment options for managing depression during pregnancy. From evidence-based therapies to holistic practices, there are many ways to cope and feel more positive about the present and future.
Antidepressant alternatives during pregnancy include the following options:
Therapy
Therapy is a very effective way to treat mental health issues, including depression. It can help you to understand your condition and make changes that could have a positive impact on your thoughts and feelings. Many people find therapy to be effective, and it can be paired with medication for maximum benefits. Some of the most effective therapies for depression during pregnancy are cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT).10
Support Groups
Support groups can be a great resource for pregnant women and new mothers. Within these environments, you can find emotional support, share your experiences, and get practical advice from people with similar experiences.
Self-Care
Looking after yourself during pregnancy is important, so it’s good to have the basics covered when it comes to self-care. For instance, research has shown that what you eat can impact your mood, with links between good nutritional diets and low levels of depression.11,12 Exercise can also have great effects on your mood, with regular physical activity reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Whether it’s a stroll around the block or yoga, even gentle exercise counts.13
Holistic Approaches
A holistic approach means that you don’t just focus on treating symptoms: you are treating the person as a whole. Plus, holistic options can be especially effective when used alongside medication or therapy to help you get a balanced, long-term recovery from depression. For example, building practices such as mindfulness and meditation into your day can reduce symptoms of depression, stress, and anxiety.14,15
Postpartum Depression and Antidepressants
Finally, let’s talk about the link between prenatal and postpartum depression. Some risk factors put you at a higher risk of developing postpartum depression, with studies showing that the biggest factor is feeling depressed during your pregnancy.16-18
If you were taking antidepressants during pregnancy, you can continue taking them afterward as long as they are helping. Advice from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is that it may be safe to take antidepressants while breastfeeding.19 Research shows that, depending on the medication, the amount passed to the baby through breast milk is low or very low.20 However, you should always consult your healthcare professional about your specific circumstances and breastfeeding.
Support for yourself and your family is crucial during this important time. Treating depression during and after pregnancy is the right thing to do when thinking of the best outcome for you, your baby, and your family. There’s no shame in seeking support, and there are options available to you.
Mission Connection: Perinatal Depression Support
Deciding whether to take antidepressants during pregnancy is a very personal choice that only you can make. But remember that looking after yourself is one of the most important things you can do for your baby. This includes getting support for depression when you need it. You have options open to you, and you don’t have to make a decision alone.
At Mission Connection, our team of mental health experts can provide you with the trustworthy and compassionate care you and your baby deserve. We will listen to your wants and needs and work with you to create a treatment plan that feels right for you. From therapy to medication management, 24/7 care, and resources.
You can discover more perinatal mental health information on our website, including:
- Best therapy options for perinatal mental health
- Self-Care Tips for Managing Perinatal Depression
- Holistic Approaches to Mental Health During Pregnancy
If you’re ready to feel better, reach out to us today to talk to someone who really understands perinatal mental health. We’re here for you.
References
- Abdelhafez, M., Ahmed, K., Ahmed, N., Ismail, M., Daud, M. N. B. M., Ping, N. P. T., Eldiasty, A., Amri, M. F. B., Jeffree, M. S., Kadir, F., Baharuddin, D. M. P., Bolong, M. F. B., Hayati, F., BtAzizan, N., Sumpat, D., Rahim, S. S. S. A., & Malek, E. H. A. (2023). Psychiatric illness and pregnancy: A literature review. Heliyon, 9(11). https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20958
- Robbins, C. L., Ko, J. Y., D’Angelo, D. V., Von Essen, B. S., Bish, C. L., Kroelinger, C. D., Tevendale, H. D., Warner, L., & Barfield, W. (2023). Timing of postpartum depressive symptoms. Preventing Chronic Disease, 20. https://doi.org/10.5888/pcd20.230107
- Dubovicky, M., Belovicova, K., Csatlosova, K., & Bogi, E. (2017). Risks of using SSRI / SNRI antidepressants during pregnancy and lactation. Interdisciplinary Toxicology, 10(1), 30–34. https://doi.org/10.1515/intox-2017-0004
- U.S. Food And Drug Administration. (2025, February 3). Pregnancy. U.S. Food And Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/consumers/womens-health-topics/pregnancy
- Patel, B. N., Beste, J., & Blackwell, J. C. (2011, May 15). Antidepressant use during pregnancy. AAFP. https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2011/0515/p1211.html
- Sweet, A. M, Schwartz, T. L. (2020, July 25). Mental health issues in pregnancy and options for treatment. Medscape. https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/705150_5
- Mayo Clinic. (n.d). Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved June 9th, 2025, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/ssris/art-20044825
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (n.d.). Planning a pregnancy on an antidepressant. In Depression (antenatal & postnatal) – management. NICE Clinical Knowledge Summaries (CKS). Retrieved June 10, 2025, from https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/depression-antenatal-postnatal/management/planning-a-pregnancy-on-an-antidepressant/
- Mayo Clinic. (n.d). Antidepressants: Safe during pregnancy? Mayo Clinic. Retrieved June 9th, 2025, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/antidepressants/art-20046420
- Bright, K. S., Charrois, E. M., Mughal, M. K., Wajid, A., McNeil, D., Stuart, S., Hayden, K. A., & Kingston, D. (2020). Interpersonal Psychotherapy to Reduce Psychological Distress in Perinatal Women: A Systematic review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(22). https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17228421
- Bayes, J., Schloss, J., & Sibbritt, D. (2022). The effect of a Mediterranean diet on the symptoms of depression in young males (the “AMMEND: A Mediterranean Diet in MEN with Depression” study): a randomized controlled trial. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 116(2), 572–580. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/nqac106
- Li, Y., Lv, M., Wei, Y., Sun, L., Zhang, J., Zhang, H., & Li, B. (2017). Dietary patterns and depression risk: A meta-analysis. Psychiatry Research, 253, 373–382. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psychres.2017.04.020
- Carek, P. J., Laibstain, S. E., & Carek, S. M. (2011). Exercise for the treatment of depression and anxiety. The International Journal of Psychiatry in Medicine, 41(1), 15–28. https://doi.org/10.2190/pm.41.1.c
- Li, P., Mao, L., Hu, M., Lu, Z., Yuan, X., Zhang, Y., & Hu, Z. (2022). Mindfulness on Rumination in Patients with Depressive Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(23), 16101. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192316101
- Harvard Health Publishing. (2021, February 12). How meditation helps with depression. Harvard Health Publishing. https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/how-meditation-helps-with-depression
- Roomruangwong, C., Withayavanitchai, S., & Maes, M. (2016). Antenatal and postnatal risk factors of postpartum depression symptoms in Thai women: A case-control study. Sexual & Reproductive Healthcare, 10, 25–31. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.srhc.2016.03.001
- Thomas, L. (2019, December 18). Prenatal and postnatal depression: Is there a link? News Medical. https://www.news-medical.net/health/Prenatal-and-Postnatal-Depression-Is-There-a-Link.aspx
- Choi, S. K., Park, Y. G., Park, I. Y., Ko, H. S., & Shin, J. C. (2014, September 1). Impact of antenatal depression on perinatal outcomes and postpartum depression in Korean women. J Res Med Sci. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4268186/
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, April 5). Postpartum depression [Breastfeeding special circumstances]. National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Retrieved June 10, 2025, from https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding-special-circumstances/hcp/illnesses-conditions/postpartum-depression.html
- Berle, J. O., & Spigset, O. (2011). Antidepressant use during breastfeeding. Current Women S Health Reviews, 7(1), 28–34. https://doi.org/10.2174/157340411794474784
