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Treating Depression in Pregnancy: Conclusions Vivien Burt, MD, PhD The Women’s Life Center Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital at UCLA

Conclusions Maternal stress and depression during pregnancy are associated with serious maternal illness. Stopping antidepressants in pregnant women with serious depressive illness is associated with a relapse of depression. Depression during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk for poor obstetrical outcomes.

Conclusions Depression during pregnancy increases the risk of postpartum depression. The expectant mother’s health is important for the health of both mother and baby.

Absolute risks of rare defects Small Baseline risks of birth defects 3%

Maternal stress and depression during pregnancy are associated with: Serious maternal illness. Poor health behaviors. An increased risk for postpartum illness. 

Recommended Articles for Mothers

Key Points Pregnant women are at substantial risk for recurrence of mental illness if they discontinue the medications that have kept them well. Recommendations should be based not only on a patient’s current presentation but also on her history and psychosocial situation. Clinicians should help patients understand the risks of psychiatric illness on their health, obstetric health, and the health of their babies.

Key Points Clinicians should help their patients understand that the literature on risks of medications in pregnancy is limited, compromised by confounders, and constantly changing. It is important to educate expectant mothers and their partners that perinatal depression is treatable. Successful treatment means positive outcomes for mothers, their babies, and their families.