According to new professional guidelines publicized this week, women who experience depression during pregnancy can seek the help of anti-depressants and / or 'talk therapy', both of which are considered safe and appropriate treatment options.

In her statement, Dr. Kimberly Ann Yonkers, lead author of the study says, concerns about safe treatment of women during pregnancy means, often if they are undergoing depression, it often goes unrecognized and untreated.

The guidelines on depression during pregnancy, issued by the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists and the American Psychiatric Association, are the result of an extensive review of prior research.

The reports states, the guidelines contain both the pros and cons of using anti-depressants for effectively treating depression during pregnancy. However, strong evidence tying these drugs to birth defects and reduced birth weight in babies, clearly indicating psychotherapy is a more suitable alternative to anti-depressants for some women experiencing mild-to-moderate depression.

The report says, women planning pregnancies should taper or discontinue taking anti-depressants, if they have had mild or no symptoms for 6-months or more. However, if there is a history of severe, recurrent depression, including other major psychiatric illness, then continuation of medication is recommended, and women with suicidal or acute psychotic symptoms, the guidelines say, must see a psychiatrist for more aggressive treatment.

Depending on their mental health history, pregnant women currently on anti-depressants may discuss the pros and cons of remaining on medication with their doctors, or taper off them, if there are no symptoms. For symptoms that continue to persist, the guideline suggests trying psychotherapy that offers many benefits.

Pregnant women who have not started taking anti-depressants should consider psychotherapy as a better alternative to anti-depressants, though they should be informed of the risks and benefits of anti-depressants, if they opt for them.