Lexapro and Pregnancy

Depression and anxiety affect millions of people every day, and unfortunately getting pregnant can trigger the imbalances in the brain chemistry that causes these disorders. Taking Lexapro during pregnancy then becomes a question of benefit over risk in the expectant mother. Lexapro is one of the leading medications to treat people with depression and anxiety, but it can impact the health of the baby and the mother, therefore it is extremely important to consult a physician and gather their expert opinion and directions. Having a Lexapro pregnancy can be harmful and your physician will often look for a better alternative based on your health and the risks posed by this solution to the mother’s mental health.

Lexapro and pregnancy

Lexapro is a drug that is used to treat acute or chronic anxiety and depression in adults and adolescents over the age of 12 years old. It is given a pregnancy safety rating of C or moderate and the studies show that there are increased risks of complication with Lexapro and pregnancy in the 3rd trimester. The most common side effects of a Lexapro pregnancy include: nausea, dry mouth, drowsiness, and insomnia. Less common, but not uncommon side effects of taking Lexapro during pregnancy include: diarrhea, ejaculation complications, dyspepsia, increased fatigue, increased anxiety, vomiting, and loss of appetite. The rarest much often most severe side effects include: severe sinusitis, sexual dysfunction, menstrual complications, sharp abdominal pain, and decreased libido.

It is important to keep in mind that taking Lexapro during pregnancy can leave traces of the medication in the breast milk. Make sure that you consult with a physician about these implications and discuss the options that you have to increase the health of the mother and child. Discontinuing to take the Lexapro during pregnancy or after the baby is born is an option that should be discussed with your doctor to make sure that you do it in a way to minimize the amount and severity of the withdrawal symptoms. There have been some birth defects that have been reported but the amount of data on taking SSRIs during pregnancy and their effects, are limited.

When you become pregnant or are thinking of becoming pregnant, it is important to discuss Lexapro and pregnancy with your physician. They may advise that it is better for you to reduce the dosage, change SSRIs, or supplement with another medication to counteract the negative side effects. It is vitally important to heed their guidance and use their support for the healthiest pregnancy possible.