Escitalopram and pregnancy
Escitalopram can be taken during pregnancy. A few studies have suggested that escitalopram might occasionally affect the development of a baby's heart. However, if there is any risk, it is small, and the majority of babies born to women taking escitalopram will have a normal heart.
When escitalopram is taken in the weeks before delivery it can sometimes cause short-term withdrawal symptoms and, very rarely, breathing problems in babies. Your baby will be checked after they're born and given extra care if they need it.
Taking escitalopram in the last month of pregnancy may slightly increase your risk of bleeding after delivery. However, this side effect is rare and treatable so it's not a reason to stop taking escitalopram.
It's important that depression and anxiety are well treated during pregnancy as these can affect both you and your baby's wellbeing. Depression and anxiety can sometimes get worse during pregnancy, and after your baby is born.
Speak to your doctor if you become pregnant. They will help you weigh up the risks and benefits so you can decide on the best treatment for you and your baby.
Escitalopram and breastfeeding
If your doctor or health visitor says your baby is healthy, you can take escitalopram while breastfeeding.
Escitalopram passes into breast milk in small amounts. It does not usually cause any problems but it has been linked with side effects including being unusually irritable or restless and being sick in a few breastfed babies.
Talk to your health visitor, midwife, pharmacist or doctor as soon as possible if:
- your baby is unusually irritable or restless
- your baby is unusually sleepy
- your baby is not feeding as well as usual
- you have any other concerns about your baby
It's important to continue taking escitalopram to keep you well. Breastfeeding will also benefit both you and your baby.
Although other medicines might be preferred while you are breastfeeding, it's important you take the medicine that works for you. If you are breastfeeding, or planning to breastfeed, talk to your doctor or pharmacist to help you decide what is best for you.
Escitalopram and fertility
Escitalopram may possibly reduce sperm quality, but it's not known whether this reduces fertility or not. Speak to your doctor if you're having difficulty conceiving a baby.
For women, there's no evidence to suggest that taking escitalopram will reduce your fertility.
Speak to a pharmacist or your doctor if you're trying to get pregnant as they may want to review your treatment.
Non-urgent advice: Tell your doctor if you're:
- trying to get pregnant
- pregnant
- breastfeeding
For more information about how escitalopram can affect you and your baby during pregnancy, visit the Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy (BUMPS) website.