Anybody here have experience with panic disorder and pregnancy?

[Olive71]

Hi.  I'm new here.  I'm 45 and just found out I am 8 weeks pregnant.  This will be my first child.  I am so scared and lost as I have had panic disorder for 20 years.  Does anyone here have any experience with having panic disorder and being pregnant?  I am trying to weigh the benefits and the risks of taking my anti-anxiety medication.  Please help.  Any advice would be appreciated so much.

[mathematicarisa]

Check out the Massachuessetts center for womens mental health website.  They have information on pregnancy and all sorts of medications to help with mental health. If you decide to stay on the medications you can participate in their research by giving 3 phone interviews. This can help future pregnant women make informed decisions.

[Christypea]

Xanax is one of the only drugs that the withdrawals can kill you. If your baby is born addicted to it that will cause major problems and pain for the baby. I would advise finding other ways to deal with panic attacks. It may seem like Xanax is the only answer but it isn't. You should speak with your doctor. Also, do you see a therapist? That can help as well.

[mojo2017]

Hi yes research does drive you crazy :( .I'm on the equivalent to xanax I have taken myself off it slowly .I don't know what I would do if need it again ;/ as also have panic attacks so far I've been okay but the thought is scary of being without it .but seems the risks to baby are not good.I think it maybe a good idea to ask gp if there is anything you could go onto that maybe safer that's what I think I'm going to do .I don't know anyone myself on xanax .

[mojo2017]

Hi I'm also 45 and 9 and half weeks pregnant. I have been on tablets for around the same time .I have done so much research into what to do its very confusing .I have been slowly reducing my tablets with the help from my very supportive boyfriend as a particular one I'm on is harmful , the rest of my tablets I'm just cutting down a bit at a time .many people stay on there tabs as the risk out weighs the benifits but I'm finding things okay at the moment if I feel things arnt rite I will go to gp for advice on what to do .

[Olive71]

Thank you so much for replying to me.  I, too, have been researching like crazy.  Do you happen to take xanax?

[Olive71]

Or know of anyone who did while pregnant?  When I get my panic attacks, it is the only thing that helps