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Antidepressant Use While Pregnant Increases
Risk of Miscarriage and Birth Defects
for Infertile Women
A study published online on October 31, 2012 in the Oxford Journal Human Reproduction suggests that prenatal use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI's) antidepressants among women being treated for infertility increases the risk of miscarriage, premature births, various birth defects, autism and other pregnancy complications.
 Antidepressants like Prozac, Celexa and Zoloft are the most commonly prescribed drugs among people between the ages of 18 and 44, and roughly 13 percent of pregnant women take them.
Infertile women taking infertility treatment in order to become pregnant may be prescribed antidepressants. The authors of this study analyzed already existing data on the effects of SSRI antidepressants on infertile women in order to understand the effects that these drugs would have on their pregnancies and potential offspring. Researchers found that the use of SSRIs among infertile women has been associated with "possible reduced infertility treatment efficacy as well as higher rates of pregnancy loss, preterm birth, pregnancy complications, neonatal issues and long-term neurobehavioral abnormalities in offspring."
In particular, researchers noted that studies exploring the association between prenatal exposure to antidepressants and childhood autism had found a statistical link. According to the authors, "given what has been described as a growing epidemic of autism spectrum disorders, further research into the association between antidepressant use during pregnancy and autism will be critical."
The data seems to challenge the efficacy of these medications, as no improved pregnancy outcomes were observed with the use of antidepressants, and a long list of negative side effects were observed in women taking antidepressants while pregnant.
"There is clear and concerning evidence of risk when pregnant women use these medications," said senior study author Dr. Adam Urato. "On the other hand, there is no clear evidence that SSRI antidepressants actually benefit the mother in terms of alleviating mild to moderate depression."
Physicians need to make themselves aware of published findings regarding the prescription of antidepressants among infertility patients and women who are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant. There are a number studies that indicate prenatal antidepressant use can be dangerous. If you are pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant and you are taking antidepressants, consult your doctor to find the right treatment for you.
Summary Information
Title
The risks of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors in Infertile Women: A Review of the Impact on Fertility, Pregnancy, Neonatal Health and Beyond
Authors
Domar, A.D. 1,2; Moragianni, V.A. 1,2; Ryley, D.A. 1,2; Urato, A.C. 3
- Boston IVF, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 130 Second Avenue, Waltham, MA 02451, USA
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Waltham, MA, USA
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tufts University School of Medicine, Metro West Medical Center, Framingham, MA, USA
Journal
Human Reproduction, Vol 28, Issue 1, pp. 160-171, First published online October 31, 2012
Funding
None
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