The biology of fetal exposure to serotonin reuptake inhibitors: Implications for neurodevelopment

Abstract

This chapter will discuss the biology of exposure to antidepressants during pregnancy as it interacts with fetal neurodevelopment. A systematic review of prevalence rates in pregnancy found 12% of women in third trimester meet criteria for depression and the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC) found that more women were depressed at 32 weeks pregnant than 8 weeks postpartum. Untreated depression in pregnancy has been associated with increased pregnancy complications, poorer child development and increased risk of postnatal depression. While psychological treatments are indicated for many women with antenatal depression, pharmacological treatment may be indicated for thos..