Pregnancy and citalopram

[Tryingtobepositive1234]

I’ve been on and off citalopram for the last 5 years or so for depression. I have tried to come off a few times and both times felt ok for a bit but then the depression came back. I’ve been back on them for almost 4 weeks now after relapsing so badly that I was having suicidal thoughts and my husband was getting really worried and basically demanded I go back on them. I am feeling much better now.

But my problem is that the reason I came off the meds is to try to conceive without being on meds as i’m worried about the effects on an unborn child. I am 38 and really can’t leave it any longer but would prefer to not be on meds first.

Not sure what to do really....does anyone have any experience of pregnancy whilst on anti depressants? The internet is full of lots of conflicting advice...

All of my children were conceived, born and breastfed on antidepressants. Have you spoken to your GP about safe options?

I took citalopram when I was pregnant, i really didnt want to but midwife, GP and consultant all said it was absolutely fine, and more women than you would think take them through pregnancy. It was more important that I took them than if I didn't as the hormones and insomnia brought on a whole new episode of depression for me. But I came out fine and My baby is just fine. They would rather you take them and look after your mental health as it can be a bit of a rollercoaster for some.

Thanks for your replies. Reassuring to know other people have been in the same situation. I’ll speak to my GP.

I was taking anti depressants when I got pregnant with Dd2. I went to the doctor who told me to come off them, which was terrible advice, and within a few weeks I inevitably felt terrible. Within this time I had been referred to the perinatal midwife team who contacted me and told me that the type of anti d's I was on wouldn't do any harm and that it was more harmful to all involved if I did not take them. I took, and still am taking and breastfeeding, my tablets and I'm really pleased with how I feel atm. I don't think that would be the same story had I stopped again though.