SSRI Use in Pregnancy and Pulmonary Hypertension Risk in Newborns

Persistent pulmonary hypertension occurs rarely in newborns, and results of studies on a link between the condition and in utero exposure to antidepressants during pregnancy have been mixed. To clarify this relationship, researchers conducted a review and meta-analysis of seven studies, five with a cohort design and two case-control trials. The authors note that, despite the elevated risk, those numbers represent a low incidence. They conclude that the mother's health should be considered during treatment decisions and that depression during pregnancy should be treated.