Expectant mothers want nothing more than for their babies to be healthy. Unfortunately, sometimes the mother's efforts to manage her own health can put a baby's well-being at risk.

New data from a study in five Nordic countries shows that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressants may cause birth defects in unborn children. Common brands of SSRI medication include Prozac, Celexa, Lexapro, Paxil and Zoloft.

The study found that babies whose mothers take SSRI antidepressants are nearly twice as likely to develop a sometimes-fatal birth defect known as persistent pulmonary hypertension. Babies with PPHN have constricted arteries that limit blood and oxygen flow to the vital organs.

Between 5 and 10 percent of babies born with PPHN will not survive. Those that do survive may face serious long-term complications including scarred or stiffened lungs, breathing difficulties, developmental challenges, seizure disorders, neurological problems or hearing loss.

The issue presents a particular challenge to mothers suffering from clinical depression, as untreated depression can also be harmful to an unborn child. Experts recommend that women taking SSRI medications should not stop taking the drugs without first consulting with their doctor.

Women who are either pregnant or planning to become pregnant would be well-advised to talk with their physicians about transitioning to a nondrug depression treatment regiment during the course of their pregnancies.

Women who have taken SSRIs during pregnancy and whose babies are born with PPHN or another birth defect may have legal recourse in the form of a personal injury lawsuit on the basis of products liability.

If your child was born with a birth defect you think may have been caused by an SSRI or other dangerous drug, talk to a California personal injury lawyer who can help you understand your options.

Source: WebMD Health News, "Certain Antidepressants May Raise Lung Condition Risk in Newborns," Salynn Boyles, Jan. 12, 2012.