A review of the literature is provided to determine whether lithium is an important human teratogen. Lithium has been associated with the congenital Ebstein's anomaly. Recent studies estimate the relative risk to be twenty-fold, which amounts to about 0,1%. Lithium has been associated with fetal macrosomia and premature delivery. These risks can probably be reduced by lowering lithium serumlevels during pregnancy, without an increased risk of maternal relapse.

Recommendations are made for xcounseling fertile women on lithiumprophylaxis and for monitoring pregnancies of women on lithium therapy.