Does Lexapro affect baby during pregnancy?

Some studies suggest that taking citalopram/escitalopram throughout the pregnancy may increase the chance for pregnancy complications such as preterm birth (birth before 37 weeks of pregnancy) and low birth weight (weighing less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces [2500 grams] at birth).

Do you have to go off Lexapro when pregnant?

Women who take antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), during pregnancy may worry about whether the medications can cause birth defects. There is good news on this front. Osborne says that there is generally no need to taper off medications during pregnancy.

Does Lexapro cause autism?

SSRIs were linked to a more than doubled risk of autism. Treatment with a combination of antidepressants during the second or third trimester was associated with more than quadrupled odds of autism, though the study included just five of these infants.

What can I take for severe anxiety while pregnant?

Antidepressants, like SSRIs or SNRIs, are first-choice options for managing anxiety in pregnancy. Hydroxyzine might be helpful if you’d like to take medication only when your anxiety symptoms are at their worst. Certain benzodiazepines and TCAs may sometimes be used during pregnancy.

Is Lexapro safe in first trimester?

Research from 2016 suggests that antidepressant use during the first trimester is associated with an increased risk of miscarriage. However, you shouldn’t just stop taking your Lexapro cold turkey when you see that second line on your pregnancy test. Suddenly discontinuing the use of an SSRI has risks, too.

What happens if you take antidepressants while pregnant?

There is evidence that taking SSRIs early in pregnancy slightly increases the risk of your baby developing heart defects, spina bifida or cleft lip. Increased risk of miscarriage and premature birth. Slightly increased risk of blood loss after childbirth.

Does anxiety in pregnancy affect the baby?

High levels of anxiety, during pregnancy, have adverse effect on mother and baby (3, 9, 10). Anxiety, in early pregnancy, results in loss of fetus and in the second and the third trimester leads to a decrease in birth weight and increased activity of the Hypothalamus – Hypophysis–Adrenal axis (3, 4).

What can I take naturally for anxiety while pregnant?

Herbal Remedies

  • Lavender.
  • Lemon balm.
  • Chamomile.
  • Passionflower.
  • Kava.

What meds can a pregnant woman take for anxiety?

Generally, these antidepressants are an option during pregnancy: Certain selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs are generally considered an option during pregnancy, including citalopram (Celexa) and sertraline (Zoloft). Potential complications include maternal weight changes and premature birth.

Is Lexapro safe during breastfeeding?

Safe During Breastfeeding: Lexapro is not considered safe for use during breastfeeding if there is another drug that can help the patient achieve optimal mental health. The drug is passed to the infant in breast milk.