Zoloft is an anti-depressant medication used to treat various ailments like obsessive compulsive disorder, post traumatic stress disorder and anxiety. Like all anti-depressant drugs, this also has its side effects. But, there is not enough evidence to show whether it has any adverse effects on the fetus or not.

There are some studies related to Zoloft's effect on fetus and these indicate that taking Zoloft in the third trimester of pregnancy may pose some risk to the baby’s health. Babies end up having some problems like low blood sugar and respiratory problems at the time of birth if the mothers were taking Zoloft in the trimester. In addition, there is also the risk of the babies being born preterm or prematurely.  

While people do know of withdrawal symptoms when they stop the usage of Zoloft, it may be important to note that the babies receiving Zoloft by way of the placenta or their mother’s milk may also suffer from the same withdrawal symptoms once it is stopped. They may have increased agitation, insomnia, and constant crying, and this may persist for a few days. There have also been instances when the mother has used excessive Zoloft in the third trimester resulting in the baby being born with a condition called nystagmus. In this condition there is involuntary oscillary movement of the eyeballs. However, this problem resolves itself in about three days' time.  

It is advisable for pregnant women to seek the advice from a qualified doctor before taking or stopping Zoloft, since there are quite a few risks involved in the usage of this medication. Of course, it is important to note that studies do not indicate any serious birth defects on account of usage of Zoloft.

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• Zoloft Effects On Fetus
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• Zoloft Withdrawal