Frankly, more research needs to be done as to the effects of being on depression medications and getting pregnant. While there are some studies that tend to suggest that taking antidepressant medications are safe, there are other studies that suggest that there may be some negative side effects to getting pregnant while on depression medications.
It is not uncommon for a woman who is of a reproductive age to experience depression. In fact, some studies suggest that as many as 8 to 20 percent of women will experience depression at some time during their lives. Depression can be an extremely debilitating condition, as well. Depression can strain family relationships, cause problems on the job, alienate friends, and can eventually lead to serious consequences, such as suicide. Depression should never be left untreated.
Some of the sypmtoms of depression can include:
- feeling sad most of the time
- a lack of energy
- feeling withdrawn from family and friends
- difficulty with concentration
- irritability or anxiety
- thinking about suicide or death
- a change in weight, whether weight gain or weight loss
- a change in appetite.
Some of the most reliable treatments for depression are depression medications. These might include Anafranil, Wellbutrin, Zoloft, Paxil, Norpramin, or any number of other depression medications. Not all of these depression medications have difficult side effects, but not all will be effective for every individual. Not all of them are recommended for pregnancy, either.
Another possible treatment for depression is therapy. This can take the form of almost anything, from psychoanalysis to counseling to cognitive-behavioral therapy. By talking to a psychologist or therapist, many people have had success managing the symptoms of depression. Talk therapy does not make the feelings of depression go away; rather, it helps the person to develop the tools that she needs to keep those feelings in check.
The most successful treatment of depression will likely include a combination of these methods. Therapy, antidepressant medications, and a social support structure all together will exponentially increase a person's chances of dealing with depression successfully. If you believe that you are suffering from depression, you should contact your health care provider immediately. If left untreated, depression can lead to loss of work, strained relationships, physical ailments, and even death. If you or someone you know has the symptoms of depression, it is important to seek help. Your health care provider may be able to refer you to a qualified psychiatrist. Friends or family might know of a reliable counselor or mental health professional that you can turn to.
If you are on depression medications and become pregnant, you should talk to your health care provider immediately. It may be best for you to stay on your depression medications throughout your pregnancy. At a minimum, you should pursue some form of treatment for your depression, such as talk therapy.
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