SSRI Use in Pregnancy Tied to Gestational Diabetes Risk

Study finds SSRI antidepressants may increase risk of gestational diabetes but lower risk of preterm birth and low birth weight

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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An international study has found that the use of SSRI antidepressants during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes, as well as early adaptation problems in newborns. However, the research also discovered that taking SSRI medication during pregnancy may reduce the risks of preterm birth and low birth weight.

Why it matters

This study provides important insights into the potential risks and benefits of SSRI use during pregnancy, which is crucial information for expectant mothers and their healthcare providers to consider when making treatment decisions. Understanding the complex tradeoffs is key, as untreated maternal depression also carries significant risks.

The details

The study, conducted by researchers in Finland and the U.S., analyzed data on over 1.27 million children born in Finland between 1996 and 2018. They found that SSRI use during pregnancy was associated with an increased risk of gestational diabetes, as well as low Apgar scores, breathing problems, and the need for neonatal care in newborns. However, SSRI use was also linked to a lower risk of late preterm birth and low birth weight.

  • The study analyzed data on births in Finland from 1996 to 2018.

The players

Docent Heli Malm

The lead author of the study, who is from the Research Centre for Child Psychiatry at the University of Turku in Finland.

Research Centre for Child Psychiatry

Part of the Research Council of Finland's INVEST Research Flagship Centre for Inequalities, Interventions and New Welfare State, where the study was conducted.

Columbia University

The university in New York that collaborated with the University of Turku on this study.

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What they’re saying

“Our results emphasise the significance of individualised treatment decisions during pregnancy. The treatment of depression is important, and the use of SSRIs seems to protect against the risk of preterm birth associated with depression. At the same time, however, it is necessary to closely monitor both the progress of the pregnancy and the health of the newborn.”

— Docent Heli Malm, Lead author of the study

“The association we have observed with gestational diabetes requires further research in order to better understand the possible cause-and-effect relationship and underlying biological mechanisms.”

— Docent Heli Malm, Lead author of the study

What’s next

Further research is needed to better understand the potential link between SSRI use during pregnancy and gestational diabetes, including the underlying biological mechanisms.

The takeaway

This study highlights the complex tradeoffs of SSRI use during pregnancy, showing both potential risks like gestational diabetes and early newborn adaptation issues, as well as potential benefits like reduced preterm birth and low birth weight. Individualized treatment decisions in close consultation with healthcare providers are crucial for expectant mothers dealing with depression.