Title : Neonatal adaptation focusing on the challenges of newborn feeding who are prenatally exposed to antidepressants
Abstract:
Purpose: This study aimed to assess the potential impact of prenatal antidepressant exposure on newborn Apgar scores and early physiologic adaptation, with the goal of identifying whether in-utero medication exposure influences immediate post-delivery health indicators.
Relevance and Significance/ Background: SSRIs are prescribed to 4–6% of pregnant women in the U.S. to manage depression and anxiety. While generally considered low risk, third-trimester exposure may influence neonatal outcomes. Poor Neonatal Adaptation, characterized by respiratory, feeding, neurologic, and thermoregulatory instability, affects up to 30% of exposed infants. The absence of a validated screening tool limits timely identification and consistent management, highlighting the need for further research.
Methods: This study employed a retrospective design. Using a random sampling approach, 80 mother-infant dyads were selected based on predefined inclusion criteria. The sample included 40 mothers who received antidepressant treatment during pregnancy and 40 mothers who did not. Maternal demographic and clinical data, as well as neonatal outcomes including Apgar scores at one and five minutes post-delivery, were extracted from medical records. Statistical analyses were conducted to compare Apgar scores between exposed and unexposed groups, and to explore associations between Apgar scores and variables such as gestational age, maternal age, delivery mode, and antidepressant type.
Evaluation and Outcomes: Neonates prenatally exposed to antidepressants had significantly lower Apgar scores at one and five minutes compared with unexposed infants. No significant differences were observed between groups for maternal or gestational age. Apgar scores trended higher with increasing maternal age and gestational age, though not statistically significant. Cesarean delivery was associated with lower Apgar scores versus vaginal birth, but this was not significant. Among exposed infants, Apgar scores showed no significant relationship with antidepressant class, maternal age, gestational age, or delivery mode.
Conclusion/ Implication: Although limited by a small sample, this study provides preliminary evidence that prenatal antidepressant exposure may affect immediate neonatal outcomes, highlighting the need for larger, prospective research to clarify and confirm these findings.
Description: Come learn about one organization’s pilot study that explores the impact of prenatal maternal antidepressant exposure on newborn adaptation, focusing on Apgar scores and early physiologic stability. Discussion will focus on relationship with variables and clinical indications for enhanced monitoring.
Implications for Practice: Prenatal antidepressant exposure may affect newborn adaptation. Clinicians should monitor exposed infants closely for physiological instability, apply standardized assessment protocols, and collaborate across disciplines to ensure timely interventions and support optimal neonatal outcomes.
