Emory Women's Mental Health Program | Questions and Answers

I just found out that I am pregnant and I am taking medications, what should I do?
First, don't panic! There are very few medications that cause birth defects and exposure has already occurred. You need to remember why you are taking the medication and consider that many medical conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and epilepsy may recur during pregnancy if you stop your medication. Obtain reliable information from our web site and the links to other valuable information sources. Discuss this information with your significant other and obstetrician/midwife. If it is agreed that stopping the medication is the best plan, then don't stop it abruptly - decrease gradually over a few days then stop. This will reduce any withdrawal or rebound symptoms and may decrease the risk of symptoms without significantly prolonging your baby's exposure to medication.
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