Bipolar and pregnancy

[jlou78]

Does anyone have any experience of planning a pregnancy having had episodes of bipolar disorder? I have met people who realised they had the illness after they had given birth and they said that was the reason they had only had one child - i.e they wouldn't knowingly take the risk of relapse associated with pregnancy and childbirth. I've seen a doctor who said the chances of relapse and psychosis are 1 in 3 for women with bipolar, particularly at childbirth but I would love to hear of anyone who has been in my situation and coped. First of all I will have to come off the Depakote so it's a long way off.

[jlou78]

Hi, thanks for your comment. It's really good to hear from someone who has actually been there as the docs just give you statistics which make it all seem quite bleak. I think you're right about it being important that you realise when you need help, and I guess that is the advantage of having been ill before. I feel so much better and wish you all the best with your pregnancy. Thank you.

[Darkestlight]

ive went thru 1 complete pregnancy and im at the end of my second pregnancy, due in like 4 -5 wks.
With my first pregnancy i took zoloft in th last 10wks to prevent post partum depression. i had no manic  episodes while pregnant. There is something about pregnancy hormones that make it harder to be manic while pregnant.
With #2 i started lamictal at about 16-20wks or so due to severe aggression. At about 28 wks I started lexapro for depression along with the lamictal. Works wonders!!!!
When i have my baby that night i will up both my meds to combat PPD. I didnt get it with my first daughter.
my first daughter came out healthy and still is.

bipolar is not a death sentence. you can still have kids as long as u can realize when u need help and u actually seek it.