Are Antidepressants Safe During Pregnancy?

Ever wondered, “Do I need to come off my antidepressants if I’m pregnant?” Our CEO Marija Skujina, answered this important question in this article published by Stylist on the motherhood questions you’ve never asked before.

Her insight? “Mental health is just as important as physical health during pregnancy. Stopping medication suddenly can do more harm than good, so it’s essential to consult a specialist to find the safest approach for you and your baby.”

At Plan Your Baby, we believe in balanced, informed decisions when it comes to fertility, pregnancy, and mental well-being.

Can you take antidepressants while pregnant?

Yes, but the answer depends on the type of medication, your mental health needs, and medical history. Research from Harvard Medical School (2020) shows that untreated depression during pregnancy can increase risks of premature birth by 30%. For many women, continuing medication under supervision is safer than abrupt discontinuation.

Which antidepressants are safe in pregnancy?

Certain medications are considered lower risk. SSRIs such as sertraline (Zoloft) are among the most studied, with data from over 25,000 pregnancies showing no major increase in birth defects. This makes sertraline one of the most commonly prescribed pregnancy safe antidepressants.

Other medicines such as bupropion (Wellbutrin) and citalopram may also be used in selected cases. However, each option must be discussed with your healthcare provider. If you are asking “Can I take citalopram during pregnancy?” or “Can you take Prozac while pregnant?” — the answer requires personalised evaluation.

What about risks like Zoloft and birth defects?

While some studies have raised concerns about SSRIs and heart defects, large-scale meta-analyses published in JAMA Psychiatry (2019) concluded that the absolute risk remains very low. For instance, in women taking sertraline, the risk of congenital heart issues increased from 1% to about 1.5%. For many, the benefits of treatment outweigh these small increases in risk.

If you are trying to conceive while on Zoloft, speak with your doctor in advance to discuss timing, possible dose adjustments, and monitoring.

What are alternatives to antidepressants during pregnancy?

Non-medication approaches may complement treatment. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and structured support programmes are effective in reducing mild-to-moderate symptoms. However, for severe depression or anxiety, anxiety medicine for pregnancy may be necessary.

If you’re considering anxiety drugs in pregnancy or wondering “Can you take anxiety medicine while pregnant?” your care team may recommend the safest SSRI during pregnancy or, in rare cases, Class B antidepressants as alternatives.

Why is specialist guidance essential?

Every pregnancy is unique, and the safest choice depends on balancing risks and benefits. A fertility or pregnancy monitoring team can help adjust medication, track baby’s development, and provide reassurance. Learn more about our pregnancy monitoring services or explore how men can impact women’s health in pregnancy for a broader perspective on maternal well-being.