Friday, August 31, 2007

Zoloft and Breastfeeding

I am still not convinced that taking Zoloft is the way to go for me since I am fairly certain this will pass eventually. I would rather ride it out by trying the diet and exercise route before committing to something more serious. Frankly, I hesitated even posting about it, but decided to go ahead in light of the long history of women struggling alone.

There is no shame in numbers.

I'd like to personally thank Andi from Mama Knows Breast for sending me some awesome linkage about taking Zoloft while breastfeeding (Note: the search cannot be directly linked to because it expires. My search string was "breastfeeding and Zoloft"). She also mentioned that Dr. Thomas Hale, a pharmacology expert, had ranked it an L2 drug (L1 being safest, L5 being the most unsafe). I found this link on Kellymom regarding Dr. Hale's view on Zoloft. Also, Jen at The Lactivist also has some great information regarding breastfeeding and Zoloft. In short, taking Zoloft while breastfeeding appears to be safe for both mother and child - obviously, you would need to discuss this with your doctor if contemplating this path.

Regardless, I am comforted knowing that if things get worse and I don't feel I can go it alone that Zoloft will be an option.

3 comments:

caro said...

Thanks for gathering all this info. You probably already have read this, but I know Moxie also has some great info on preventing / helping PPD, including not only exercise, breaks, etc. but also supplements like Omega-3s and B vitamins.

Dooneybug said...

I'm thinking of you!! I had a horrible time with #1 and I'm trying my hardest not to fall into the depression this time. It is a battle for sure. Hope you are able to kick the funk on your own but am glad you do have that safety net!!

Sister Big said...

My Zoloft saved me. I wanted to get off it a year ago, but I still take it every day. I've learned to relax and let it help me for now.