Bipolar Disorder and Pregnancy ????

Specialties Psychiatric

Published

Hi Nurse Friends !!

I am a 36 y/o with bipolar two disorder. I really want to have a baby but I am afraid of what may happen if I stop taking my meds. I have been on meds for three yrs. I know you friends are not doctors put please give me your opinion on this matter. I will consult with my PCP and Pych Doc. before making a decision on pregnancy. I will not stop taking meds unless under the care of a MD.

Specializes in Med-Surg, Geriatric, Behavioral Health.

I am glad to hear this....your involving your PCP in this manner. We can give you our opinions..but we cannot recommend as members anything short of that when it comes to your medication. This is a matter between you, your significant other, and your PCP....since this involves your taking medication. If you have OTHER concerns surrounding this issue, then let us know and members can then discuss. If not, the thread will need to be closed.

Dr. Thomas Hale has a very good book about medications and pregnancy and breastfeeding.

I took care of a mom on bipolar meds and diabetic to boot who had a healthy baby and breastfed.

Don't be discouraged.

steph

Specializes in Pediatric/Adolescent, Med-Surg.

It can definitely be done (my mother, bipolar, went off of her meds to get pregnant), but I too strongly advise being under th care of a health care provider before attempting pregnancy. My mother did attempt it once without being under the care of a physician, didn't go back on her meds soon enough after baby was born, and ended up having more problems than necessary.

Specializes in Psych, Med/Surg, LTC.

It really depends on what meds you are taking and if they are or aren't safe for the baby and if they can be changed if not safe. But will the change in meds work for you? Its really hard to tell without actually trying. Im glad you will discuss this with your doctor.

Dr. Thomas Hale has a very good book about medications and pregnancy and breastfeeding.

I took care of a mom on bipolar meds and diabetic to boot who had a healthy baby and breastfed.

Don't be discouraged.

steph

Thanks stevielynn !! I will read the book.:saint: :saint:

Thanks stevielynn !! I will read the book.:saint: :saint:

He has a website too . . .. google his name.

steph

Specializes in Med-Surg, Geriatric, Behavioral Health.

Excellent job, folks!

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