Meghan Trainor, the pop star known for hits like “All About That Bass,” has recently shared a deeply personal experience about the birth of her son, Riley, and the challenges they faced in the newborn stage. In an interview with Romper magazine, Trainor, 28, and her husband Daryl Sabara, 30, recounted the stressful moments after Riley’s birth in February 2021, when their son was admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) due to breathing difficulties. Trainor revealed that during this vulnerable time, NICU nurses suggested a possible link between her antidepressant medication during pregnancy and Riley’s health issues, a claim that left her feeling unfairly blamed and distressed.
According to Trainor, Riley experienced trouble breathing and staying awake long enough to feed shortly after birth. These concerning symptoms led to his admission to the NICU, a place no parent wants to see their newborn. It was during this already anxious period that Trainor said some nurses implied her use of antidepressants during pregnancy might be the cause of Riley’s problems. Despite her doctors assuring her that the low-dose antidepressant she was taking was safe, the insinuation from the NICU staff left her feeling “f**ked up” and questioning herself.
“They kept asking me if I was on antidepressants during the pregnancy, and I was, but on the lowest dose possible, and all my doctors said it was safe and wouldn’t affect him,” Trainor explained in the Romper interview. She emphasized the lack of a clear diagnosis for Riley’s condition at the time, stating, “They had no name for what was wrong. He just wouldn’t wake up.” The uncertainty surrounding Riley’s health, combined with the nurses’ suggestions, amplified the stress for the new parents.
Trainor also recounted the emotional distress of the NICU environment, remembering the nurses’ comments that it was “really up to Riley when he wants to wake up.” She expressed her desperation and worry at the time, wishing for a quick solution to help her newborn. Prior to the NICU admission, Trainor had described Riley’s birth as a “horror story” to Mother.ly, recalling his lack of crying or noise upon arrival. This initial silence was followed by the news of his breathing issues, making the start of Riley’s life particularly traumatic for the couple.
After five days in the hospital, Riley was discharged, and thankfully, he is now healthy. However, Trainor admitted to ongoing anxiety during Riley’s first month, constantly worrying about his well-being, especially due to his initially subdued demeanor. She even humorously questioned if his lack of emotion was unusual for newborns, revealing the depth of her concern.
Trainor also shared details about her pregnancy, describing it as less than easy. She mentioned gaining weight and experiencing skin issues like dermatitis and eczema, alongside gestational diabetes, which required constant blood sugar monitoring. Despite these physical challenges, she credited her husband, Daryl, for being an incredible support system throughout her pregnancy and postpartum period.
Daryl’s support included everything from managing her gestational diabetes by helping with blood tests to providing comfort through foot massages. Trainor openly praised Daryl’s unwavering support and care during a physically and emotionally demanding time. Daryl, in turn, shared that becoming a father has been a positive and enriching experience, enhancing his sense of self.
To provide context on the safety of antidepressants during pregnancy, the Mayo Clinic states that the risk of birth defects and other complications is “very low.” Experts emphasize that untreated depression during pregnancy can pose greater risks, including premature birth and low birth weight. Medical professionals often adjust antidepressant dosages for pregnant women to minimize fetal exposure, but generally consider the benefits of mental health treatment to outweigh the minimal risks. It’s also noted that newborns may experience temporary withdrawal symptoms after birth if mothers took antidepressants during pregnancy, which can include jitters or feeding difficulties.
Despite the initial challenges and anxieties, Meghan Trainor expressed immense joy in motherhood. She described parenting as “everything I ever dreamed of,” emphasizing the fulfillment and happiness Riley has brought into her life. She also mentioned finding support in her friends, fellow mothers like Hilary Duff and Ashley Tisdale, who she considers her “lifelines,” especially when navigating the ups and downs of motherhood.
Looking to the future, Meghan and Daryl are planning to expand their family and hope to have more children. Trainor’s story brings to light the vulnerable postpartum period, the anxieties surrounding newborn health, and the importance of accurate medical information and supportive healthcare environments for new mothers. It also underscores the need for sensitivity and understanding from healthcare professionals when addressing parental concerns, especially regarding medication use during pregnancy.
