| SSRI | Brand | Milk transfer | Postpartum use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sertraline | Zoloft | Very low | Common first-line |
| Escitalopram | Lexapro | Low | Widely used |
| Fluoxetine | Prozac | Higher, long half-life | Case-by-case |
This is general educational information. The right choice depends on your history, response, and your clinician’s guidance.
Untreated postpartum depression carries its own real risks for mother and baby. For most breastfeeding mothers who need medication, an SSRI such as sertraline is considered compatible. Explore each: sertraline, escitalopram, fluoxetine.
Sertraline (Zoloft) is the most commonly recommended first-line SSRI while breastfeeding because of very low levels in milk.
Many mothers do, especially on sertraline. The decision is individual and made with your clinician.
Emily is a chef, mother of five and postpartum-recovery educator who revives the 2,000-year-old zuo yuezi ("sitting month") tradition for modern mothers. Her patent-backed, food-first method helps women rebuild after birth and ease postpartum depression — and she now certifies doulas and midwives to cook it for their own clients.
Emily's food-first recovery course, recovery teas and doula & midwife certification live at The Sitting Month. Text Emily and she'll help you find the right starting point.
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