Use of electro convulsive therapy (ECT) in pregnancy has been a controversial issue for a while, and the data describing cases where ECT was utilized, is limited.

The study describes two cases with reference to presenting psychopathology, course of treatment, and previous strategies used. This is followed by a discussion of risks and benefits of ECT use in pregnancy as well as monitoring measures which help prevent negative outcome.

Two cases of treatment resistant depression during pregnancy are described. The details about treatment approaches used prior to consideration of ECT are provided.

ECT was considered as a last resort and both patients decided to undergo treatment. By the end of the intensive treatment course improvement of symptoms was noticed in both patients to a greater to lesser degree.

In cases when medication trials alone or even in combination with psychotherapy do not result in significant improvement of depressive symptoms, ECT may be used to maximize positive treatment result in pregnant population. It is an effective treatment for severe mental illness, however, proper monitoring system needs to be in place to minimize negative outcome for fetus and mother.