bipolar and pregnant

[audreyously]

I've been diagnosed with bipolar manic depressive for over 10 years. I'm 15w+4 d pregnant. I am no longer taking medication to help with my moods or control my depression. I just recently hit my lowest place. My 1st child is also diagnosed bipolar disorder which was heartbreaking, I knew it ran in my family and I've struggled with it for many years. I now feel incredibly guilty for bringing another baby into this world with the possibility that it will more than likely have this horrible disorder. I've got very few friends and am not very social.  It's causing huge divides in my relationships with everyone who loves me. And because my hormones are raging I'll go through these extreme cry fits or have a horrible mood or attitude for which seems like days on end for no reason. I tried meditation and yoga and I feel like I'm not in control anymore because I know the moment I express any kind of joy or happiness my depression will soon follow.im stuck and I just want to know if there are any other soon to be mom's out there that may be in my shoes to offer any advice.
Thanks in advance.

[king_brian_smith]

I suffer from PTSD,anxiety and depression all from past military history. I didn't think I would make it thru it and always felt I would not be ready to bring yet another life into this world, but I have a good support system my family...I try to just wake up every day and make it the best day I can and always try to be around the ones who make me feel on top of the world... I hope everything works out for you sweety! Just be there for the babies they need you the most.

[mgevans]

My birth mother was bi polar and postpartum. She died when I was two weeks old. I wish she had known how much her family loved and needed her. How much I needed her. Now that i'm pregnant with my first I can't help but worry I'll have postpartum. I've been lucky in not having the bipolar aside from serious mood swings. I hope you know that there is help out there. Your children love you no matter how you are feeling and they NEED you. That's your reason to fight the black hole. Do whatever it takes to feel like there is a light up ahead. Talk to a counselor, friend, family member, support group, Dr, etc. If you aren't comfortable with one, move on to the next. Fight for your sanity BC you are so brave. Don't feel guilty about wanting to build YOUR family. You love those babies better than anyone can and don't forget it. Sending you best wishes and hopeful thoughts.

[jenandrandal]

I work for a psychologist, prior I worked for a large practice with 17 therapists/psychologists and 2 psychiatrists. I also suffer from bipolar disorder and had been in lamictal...stopped each time I got preggo (on my 4th now). Best thing I found was to see my therapist, and also keeping close contact with my ob about all of it. There may be a possibility of medication if absolutely necessary, talk to your usual prescriber of your med and have them stay in contact with your ob. Don't feel guilty either, I brought 2 daughters into this world with me being bipolar, which runs in my family, and their fathers family is filled with manic depressive addicts. My son's father suffers an anxiety disorder. Your their mother and know what to look for, which puts you in a great position to be vigilant when you see early signs of problems. I wasn't initially treated for mine when it first appeared, which helped me learn with my kids, early intervention makes a huge difference!! Be safe, take care of yourself and good luck!

[springblessings2014]

Take it easy God bless you

[springblessings2014]

Watch your anger it's not a positive  attitude  . It won't benefits the baby . And you as well

[malikaela]

Have you talked to a psychiatrist about the pros/cons of medication while pregnant? I know some of the typical bipolar meds are a little iffy, but ssri's have a pretty good safety track record. Maybe something like that could help prevent the super lows you experience. That kind of depression is bad for you, your baby, and your kiddo. Also, you are past the critical period of development so some bipolar meds might even be ok. I would seriously consider having the discussion with a psychiatrist. I know what depression feels like, and it's not fun, especially when you aren't pregnant with another kid to care for! And i'm sorry that your child has bipolar as well. Try not to feel too guilty, science and medicine makes great strides all the time. Who knows where we will be in ten years? Good luck love!

[mrsouidiani]

I know counseling isn't for everyone, but do you attend a support group or see a therapist?  My father is schizoaffective with manic/depressive modes (very extreme) and he refuses meds, but seeing someone twice a week helps him. Also, your hormones are so crazy, everything will be felt more strongly

[mrsouidiani]

I know counseling isn't for everyone, but do you attend a support group or see a therapist?  My father is schizoaffective with manic/depressive modes (very extreme) and he refuses meds, but seeing someone twice a week helps him. Also, your hormones are so crazy, everything will be felt more strongly