Why would a doctor prescribe antidepressants during pregnancy despite the risk?

Meds in pregnancy: Great question! the risks to mother and baby of untreated depression are huge, including poor nutrition, poor infant-maternal bonding, impaired decision-making, and suicide. The risk of most antidepressant medications in pregnancy, while present, is not nearly to the level the media would suggest. However, a risk-benefit discussion must happen. Ultimately, it is up to the patient to decide.

Benefit vs risk: You need to take in consideration the patient symptoms. If they are severe enough that they are putting the fetus at risk then the benefit of the medication outweighs the risk. Of course this is only done if there is no other way to control the patient symptoms and after carefuly discussing the the risk and alternative of the treatment.

Deperesion/pregnancy: There are risks to having untreated depression during pregnancy. The possible risks of using medication are low, and may be less than the risks of not using medication.