Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility while taking paroxetine

Paroxetine and pregnancy

Paroxetine can be taken in pregnancy. Some studies have suggested that paroxetine might occasionally affect the development of a baby's heart. However, if there is any risk, it is small, and the majority of babies born to women taking paroxetine have a normal heart.

When paroxetine is taken in the weeks before delivery it can sometimes cause short-term withdrawal symptoms and, very rarely, breathing problems in the baby. Your baby will be checked after birth and given extra care if needed.

Taking paroxetine in the last month of pregnancy may slightly increase your risk of bleeding after delivery. However, because this side effect is rare and can be treated, it's not a reason to stop taking paroxetine for most pregnant women.

It is important that your mental health is well treated as this can affect both you and your baby's wellbeing. Depression and anxiety can sometimes get worse during pregnancy, and after your baby's born.

Speak to your doctor if you become pregnant. They will help you weigh up the risks and benefits so you can decide on the best treatment for you and your baby.

Paroxetine and breastfeeding

If your doctor or health visitor says your baby is healthy, it's OK to take paroxetine while breastfeeding. It is one of the preferred antidepressants to take when breastfeeding and has been used by many breastfeeding mothers without any problems.

Paroxetine passes into breast milk in very small amounts, and has been linked with side effects in very few breastfed babies.

It is important to continue taking paroxetine to keep you well. Breastfeeding will also benefit both you and your baby.

If you notice that your baby is not feeding as well as usual, seems unusually sleepy or irritable, has colic or if you have any other concerns about your baby, then talk to your health visitor or doctor as soon as possible.

Paroxetine and fertility

Paroxetine may possibly reduce sperm quality, but it's not known whether this reduces fertility or not. Speak to your doctor if you're having difficulty trying for a baby.

For women, there's no evidence to suggest that taking paroxetine will reduce your fertility. Speak to a pharmacist or your doctor if you're trying to get pregnant as they may want to review your treatment.

Find out more about how paroxetine can affect you and your baby in pregnancy on the Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy (BUMPS) website.