Medication Taken By Mothers Puts Babies at Risk Warns New York Law Firm

Pregnancy is often an emotional roller coaster. For women who suffer from depression, this can be even more true. The body releases so many hormones during pregnancy that disrupt the already delicate chemical balance of the body.

For years, Ob-Gyns have encouraged most pregnant women to continue taking their anti-depressants while pregnant. The general consensus had been that managing mood was more important than the potential risks, which were known to include:

• An increased chance of miscarriage
• Higher risk or preeclampsia
• High blood pressure for the baby
• Feeding problems, difficulty sleeping, and irritability for the newborn

Doctors and researchers have consistently downplayed these risks, including some doctors theorizing that the risk comes from the depression itself and not from the medication. But new research puts the lie to these claims.

A new study by the CDC found an increase in birth defects for women taking Paxil or Prozac, not only during pregnancy but even in the months before conception. This information could lead doctors to change their course in recommending women continue to take these medications, not only while pregnant but even while trying to conceive.

If your child was born with a birth defect, and you suspect that medications or other negligence might have been the cause, don’t hesitate to contact an attorney. An experienced lawyer will know what to ask and who to ask to get the answers you need regarding the circumstances leading to your child’s birth defect.