The author reviews results of clinical trials of tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and so called 'newer antidepressants' used during pregnancy; presents main risks of their use during this period and after delivery /teratogenicity, perinatal toxicity, behavioural teratogenicity etc./. Risks for nursing infants are also resumed.
The basic principles of pharmacological treatment of depression during pregnancy and breastfeeding /patient's information, choice of treatment, choice of antidepressant, dosage of antidepressant, and prevention of postpartum depression/ are discussed.