[Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and pregnancy]

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) is the most common pharmacological treatment for depression during pregnancy. In recent years it has been under suspicion of causing spontaneous abortion, cardiac malformation, preterm birth, low birthweight, persistent pulmonary hypertension and neonatal withdrawal syndrome in the newborn exposed to SSRI. But the risks of SSRI side effects are low compared to background population. Non-pharmacological treatment methods should also be considered while treating pregnant women with depression. This paper describes the present state of knowledge about the potential complications associated with the use of SSRI during pregnancy and points at treatment recommendations to the physician.