Are women empowered to make decisions about the use of antidepressants in pregnancy?

Background: Untreated depression is related to adverse maternal mortality and morbidity. The most frequent treatment option for women is antidepressant medication. Women find decision-making about antidepressant usage in pregnancy difficult and confusing. There is a dearth of information to explain if women are empowered to make decisions around the use of antidepressants in pregnancy. Method: A literature review was conducted using Cinahl Complete, Intermid, Proquest and Discover More. Results: Information provision was inadequate and women experienced decisional conflict. Women wanted to be involved in a collaborative decision-making process. Conclusion: Women want to be provided with clear and accurate information and follow a collaborative decision-making process when making decisions about antidepressants in pregnancy. More research is needed to explore demographic gaps within population samples. Women’s experiences of decision-making about antidepressant usage need to be explored in depth. Undergraduate and postgraduate health education should include conversation skills training, associated with collaborative discussion and informed choice around medication usage.