SSRIs during pregnancy: What you need to know about safety, risks, and alternatives

When you're pregnant and struggling with depression or anxiety, the decision to keep taking SSRIs, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, a common class of antidepressants used to treat mood disorders. Also known as serotonin reuptake inhibitors, these medications help many people feel like themselves again—but during pregnancy, every choice carries weight. You’re not just thinking about your own well-being. You’re weighing how a pill might affect your growing baby. It’s a heavy load, and you’re not alone in wondering: Is it safe? What if I stop? What if I don’t?

SSRIs like sertraline, fluoxetine, and escitalopram are among the most studied antidepressants in pregnancy. Research doesn’t show a clear link to major birth defects, but some studies suggest a small increase in risks like preterm birth, low birth weight, or temporary newborn symptoms like jitteriness or feeding trouble. These aren’t common, and for many, the risk of untreated depression—like poor prenatal care, unhealthy eating, or even suicidal thoughts—is far greater. That’s why doctors don’t just say "take it" or "don’t take it." They help you weigh your personal history, how severe your symptoms are, and what alternatives might work. For example, therapy, exercise, or mindfulness practices can help some women manage symptoms without medication. But for others, stopping SSRIs leads to a relapse that’s harder to control than any side effect.

It’s not just about the drug—it’s about your whole situation. Are you getting support? Do you have access to a therapist who understands pregnancy? Are you worried about stigma? These factors matter as much as the science. And while some posts in this collection cover how to safely switch medications, how to monitor for side effects, or how to talk to your doctor about tapering off, none of them offer a one-size-fits-all answer. That’s because your pregnancy, your mental health, and your life are unique. What works for someone else might not work for you—and that’s okay.

Below, you’ll find real, practical guides from people who’ve been there: how to spot warning signs in newborns after SSRI exposure, how to balance medication with breastfeeding, how to work with your OB and psychiatrist as a team, and what alternatives actually have evidence behind them. There’s no sugarcoating here—just clear facts, honest experiences, and tools to help you make the right call for you and your baby.