Pregnancy, Maternal Antidepressants, & Risks for Autism in Children

Causes of autism are under much debate with many pediatricians believing there is a collaborative cause. If you are pregnant and expecting a child who may be at risk for health issues, it is important to consider how your own maternal health may adversely impact your child's neurological and mental health - including the development of autism in childhood.

While it is not clearly known what causes autism to develop in children, it is believed the condition is a neurodevelopmental complication that leads to abnormal function of gray matter in the brain. Because some mild forms of antidepressants can cause abnormal fetal development, women who are expecting a child, or those of child-bearing years, may be at a greater risk for having children with autism if antidepressants are used in pregnancy.

If you are a woman who is already taking antidepressants, it is important to speak with your doctor early in your pregnancy, or prior to becoming pregnant, as a way to minimize the impact the medications may have upon your growing baby. If, after your child is born, you find that your child has signs of autism, then ask about testing for autistic spectrum disorders but do so understanding the antidepressant question may come to light.

Should your child be confirmed with an autistic complication, keep in mind that there is no definitive way to pinpoint your maternal antidepressant usage as the underlying cause. But, this is an impact for consideration and your child should be re-assessed annually. As a parent, always keep in mind that research on this subject is evolving so stay in tune with the journal reports on the impact of maternal antidepressant usage.

Antidepressants, for many women, are necessary and part of overall good women's health practices. In women who are of child bearing age, or women who are expecting a baby, the use of antidepressants should be used with caution. Because some antidepressants cause birth defects, many obstetricians will recommend a change in prescription but, ultimately, this can adversely affect your child's serotonin production levels and impact the development of autism.

Sources: Coping with Children on the Autistic Spectrum, by Glen Liddell