Abstract
There is conflicting information regarding the risks and consequences of fetal exposure to antidepressant medications, specifically SSRIs. Providing pregnant women with accurate information regarding the risks and benefits associated with antidepressants is a critical public health issue. Unfortunately, clinical practice guidelines vary and sometimes offer contradictory recommendations regarding pharmacological treatment during pregnancy, because not enough is known about the effects of antidepressant medication on the fetus. Not surprisingly, both pregnant women and healthcare providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurses, and physicians express feelings of conflict when considering prescribing/taking SSRI’s. Current guidelines also do not provide guidance on presenting adequate informed consent for this potential conflict. This paper explores the literature on fetal harms and maternal-fetal conflict that are associated with antidepressant medication used in pregnancy and discuss the need for enhanced collaborative care. It also offers specific recommendations for addressing the ethical challenges that arise when pregnant women are considering antidepressant treatment.
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