ASSESSING THE LONG-TERM OUTCOMES OF ANTIDEPRESSANT USE DURING PREGNANCY ON MATERNAL AND FETAL HEALTH
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Abstract
Background: Antidepressant use during pregnancy is controversial due to potential risks to both maternal and fetal health. This study aims to assess the long-term outcomes of antidepressant use during pregnancy.
Methods: A longitudinal cohort study involving 235 pregnant women diagnosed with major depressive disorder and treated with antidepressants (SSRIs or SNRIs) was conducted. Data were collected during pregnancy, at birth, and postpartum at multiple time points (6 months, 1 year, 2 years, and 5 years). The study evaluated maternal health, fetal and neonatal outcomes, and long-term child neurodevelopmental outcomes. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, comparative analyses, and mixed-effects models.
Results: 76.6% of participants showed significant improvement in depressive symptoms. Pregnancy complications were observed in 12.8% of cases. 93.6% of fetuses exhibited normal growth and development. Minor congenital anomalies were observed in 6.4% of cases. Neonatal adaptation syndrome occurred in 10.6% of newborns. Normal development was observed in 78.7-85.1% of children at various follow-ups. ASD was diagnosed in 4.3% of children by age 2, and ADHD in 6.4% by age 5.
Conclusion: It is concluded that the use of antidepressants during pregnancy effectively manages maternal depression and generally supports positive maternal and fetal health outcomes. Despite a slight increase in the risk of minor congenital anomalies and neurodevelopmental disorders, the benefits of treating maternal depression outweigh these concerns.
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Nusrat Manzoor
Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Niazi Medical and Dental College, Sargodha Pakistan
Dr Abdul Sadiq
Acting Professor Department of Biochemistry, Jhalawan Medical College Khuzdar, Balochistan Pakistan
Dr Ashiq Hussain
Assistant Professor, Sahiwal Medical College, Sahiwal Pakistan
Dr Farukh Bashir
HOD & Professor of Gynecology Unit II, Continental Medical College Defense Road, Lahore Pakistan
Gul Mehnaz
Associate Professor Pharmacology, Women Medical and Dental College, Abbottabad Pakistan
Dr Sarwat Jahan
Associate Professor Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Aziz Fatimah Medical and Dental College, Faisalabad Pakistan