XP: Anti-Anxiety Meds during IVF/Pregnancy

cinnamonrollcupcake

Hi ladies ~ I'm currently in the middle of my first IVF cycle (due to start stims tomorrow) and I am struggling with a lot of anxiety. I have always been an anxious person - I used to take an anti-anxiety medication, but stopped it a couple of years ago when we started TTC. I have been doing fine without it until I started the IVF meds. Now I am constantly worrying about anything IVF related.

Did any of you take an anti-anxiety medication during IVF? If so, did you stop it once you found out you were pregnant or did you continue taking it? If it's safe and my doctor approves of it I am thinking that I should take something, because I'm going crazy with all of my anxiety over IVF!

Thanks in advance!

Roeni

I had lots of anxiety while stimming and was near full blown panic attacks sometimes. I did take clonazepam but was cutting my dose and tapering off in case I became pregnant. Unfortunately no anxiety meds are really considered safe for pregnancy unless it will be more harmful not to take it. I have looked into this a lot since I struggle with anxiety. Luckily for me I think pregnancy hormones tend to relax me and I haven't really needed my meds. If I were to have a full blown attack with tachycardia I'd probably pop a Xanax though because it would be more harmful not to in my opinion.

jezebel57

Sometimes it is better to take something safe than to suffer with anxiety the whole pregnancy. I went off meds over a year ago and am now starting to struggle again. Considering going back in Zoloft but I believe it's only safe until 3rd trimester and I am there in 7 weeks anyway. Ask your dr what are safe meds for you!

Crystal120410

I take Wellbutrin which is safe all through pregnancy confirmed by my re and ob. They both also told me Prozac is safe. There are meds out their so if you feel you need then get some help. There is no need in having to feel bad.

CousinVicki

i took lexapro all through IF, and throughout my entire pregnancy.  being CALM is more important than having full blown anxiety/depression throughout your pregnancy (and far outweighs the nominal risks honestly).    Pregnancy for the most part has been good as far as anxiety, but i have had a few weeks of INTENSE anxiety crop up even on meds.   You need to take care of yourself, it's not worth feeling that awful panic, esp for baby (or be at risk for PPD!)

CousinVicki

jezebel57 said:

Sometimes it is better to take something safe than to suffer with anxiety the whole pregnancy. I went off meds over a year ago and am now starting to struggle again. Considering going back in Zoloft but I believe it's only safe until 3rd trimester and I am there in 7 weeks anyway. Ask your dr what are safe meds for you!

not true, talk to a Psychiatrist or your OB.  you can go on something now. 

cinnamonrollcupcake

Thanks for all of your responses - you're all so nice and helpful. I am going to talk with my doctor. Really appreciate all your responses - it's made me feel better all ready. Wishing you all the best!

BrideJackie11

They have been lots of studies on SSRIs and pregnancy.  Sertraline (zoloft) and fluoxetine (prozac) have the most safety data and are the most studied.  Sertraline also has a lot of safety data with breastfeeding.  The one that has been shown to be the least safe is paxil, it is a category D (the others are category C) and is linked to persistent pulmonary hypertension of a newborn.  Buspirone (buspar) is a category B but I am honestly not sure how much research has been done on it during pregnancy.  Benzodiazepines (xanax, clonazepam) should be avoided during pregnancy.  They are category D and have been linked to congential malformations, including cleft palate).  I would talk to a psychiatrist.  There are several safe options during pregnancy and it is better for LO if your mental health remains stable, even if that requires a medication.