ABSTRACT
Until recently, psychoactive medication (or medications that have an impact on anxiety, depression, or other mental health difficulties) was the only treatment option available for women with anxiety or depression during pregnancy or the postpartum period. These medications can be effective either on their own or in combination with psychological treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Chapter 11 will review the benefits of psychoactive medications for women during pregnancy and postpartum. This chapter also reviews the research literature to summarize what we know about the risks or concerns about safety regarding the use of psychoactive medications by women who are pregnant or in the postpartum. Finally, this chapter provides a framework that can serve as a guide for helping women who are struggling with making a decision about whether or not to take medication for anxiety, depression, or other mental health difficulties during this period.
