Risks Are there any risks of taking fluoxetine during pregnancy? SSRIs are commonly taken during pregnancy without any problem. However, some studies have linked SSRIs to a higher chance of preterm delivery, or of having a baby with a low birth weight. “Robust evidence has shown that SSRIs are safe in pregnancy and that most do not increase the risk of birth defects. SSRIs and other antidepressants cross the placenta and fetal blood brain barrier. Prenatal exposure thus involves potential risks of teratogenesis, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and postnatal effects. Out of all babies born each year, about 3 out of 100 (3%) will have a birth defect. We look at research studies to try to understand if an exposure, like fluoxetine, might increase the chance of birth defects in a pregnancy. Fluoxetine use is not expected to increase the chance of birth defects. There are no controlled data in human pregnancy. Results of several epidemiological studies assessing the risk of exposure of this drug in early pregnancy have been inconsistent and not provided conclusive evidence of an increased risk of congenital malformations. There is generally no need to taper off medications during pregnancy, because antidepressants have not been known to cause birth defects. In fact, untreated mental illness itself poses risks to a developing fetus. There is no evidence to suggest that taking fluoxetine reduces fertility in either men or women. But speak to a pharmacist or your doctor if you're trying to get pregnant. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) has released guidelines on psychiatric medication used by women during pregnancy and lactation. Are antidepressants an option during pregnancy? Yes. A decision to use antidepressants during pregnancy is based on the balance between risks and benefits. Often, the biggest concern is the risk of birth defects from exposing an unborn baby to depression medicine in the womb. Out of all babies born each year, about 3 out of 100 (3%) will have a birth defect. We look at research studies to try to understand if an exposure, like fluoxetine, might increase the chance of birth defects in a pregnancy. Fluoxetine use is not expected to increase the chance of birth defects.