Navigating Motherhood with Mental Health in Mind

Waking up at 6:30 AM, I carefully maneuver my 32-week pregnant body to avoid straining too much, as advised by experts. As I make my way downstairs, I try not to disturb my two sleeping toddlers. That quiet morning time? Pure gold.

After tending to my dog and grabbing my morning essentials—coffee, water, and toast—I can’t help but reflect on the countdown to my mother's visit to help with the kids. Managing my toddlers with this growing baby bump feels like an Olympic challenge!

Beside my calendar are ultrasound snapshots of my newest family member, and I secretly hope my husband returns from deployment before baby number three arrives.

With a mix of anxiety and routine, I take my essential SSRI—a little pink pill I’ve depended on for nearly a decade—to gear up for the day ahead.

Challenging FDA Claims on Antidepressants

Before heading back upstairs to my children, I stumble upon troubling news from the FDA panel regarding antidepressant use during pregnancy. It’s no surprise to mothers that mental health issues are rampant among pregnant women, yet the FDA seems to overlook this crucial reality.

Leading medical organizations recognize that maternal mental health disorders, including depression and anxiety, endanger both the woman and child, impacting one in five mothers.

However, the FDA panel, mostly made up of academics with little real-world experience, misrepresented the risks of antidepressants while downplaying the consequences of untreated mental health issues, leaving many mothers like me frustrated.

The Reality of Maternal Mental Health Treatment

Amid claims about the dangers of SSRIs, studies show a different story—most mothers with mental health challenges are not even on medication. Research indicates that around 50% of women who took SSRIs before pregnancy choose to stop due to fear, misinformation, or stigma.

Reflecting on my own struggles, I was diagnosed with OCD in graduate school and initially hesitant about medication. Yet, after accepting treatment, my quality of life improved significantly.

In 2022, while pregnant with my first child, I consulted healthcare professionals who collectively advised that continuing my antidepressant was safe and beneficial. After having a healthy baby girl, I noticed postpartum depression creeping in, leading me to increase my dosage with my psychiatrist's support.

Standing Firm on Personal Choices

When faced with another surprise pregnancy, there was no thought of stopping my medication. Now, due with my third child in just three years, the decision to remain on my antidepressants is resolute.

The FDA panel failed to consider the disturbing trends in medical distrust, which have intensified since the rise of the wellness industry, fueling skepticism against essential treatments.

Fearmongering from the FDA can create further barriers for mothers seeking treatment, especially if new warning labels on SSRIs are mandated.

While some panelists expressed a desire to educate mothers on SSRIs, the lack of shared studies reflects a serious gap in transparency.

Understanding the Balance Between Mother and Child

Only one panelist, Dr. Kay Roussos-Ross, emphasized that neglecting maternal health often leads to dire consequences, illustrating how maternal suicide is a leading cause of death during this critical period.

For many, including myself, antidepressants are a lifeline, a first step to ensuring both mental health and family well-being.

Taking my medication doesn’t just benefit me; it enhances my ability to care for my children, creating a nurturing environment free from anxiety and despair.

Though every treatment plan is unique, the potential risks of untreated mental health issues—low birth weight, preterm birth, and increased maternal and infant mortality—are far greater.

Empowering Mothers Amidst Misinformation

As discussions around maternal health evolve, mothers deserve clear, factual information to make informed decisions without fear of judgment.

Continuing my antidepressants throughout my pregnancies is a choice I’m grateful to have, especially amidst rising restrictions on women's healthcare.

Ultimately, mothers must access and receive the support and treatments necessary for their unique needs, including mental health care, without stigma. We’re not ‘bad moms’ for requiring help—we’re strong women fighting to take the best possible care of ourselves and our children.