Pregnancy and Depression/Mental Illness

Hi Girls.

I am not pregnant...but have been trying to get pregnant for 2 years now. Someone suggested that post this here and that you might be able to help me out.

Since my last BFN/IVF cycle I've been thinking alot about the aftermath. I've been living with Depression for 13 years now and both failed IVF cycles felt scarily like a bad depressive episode. That scares the H#ll out of me. A relapse scares the h#ll out of me. So I've been thinking that maybe the next time we "try" I'll stay on my meds...the ones that have kept me even for 13 years.

All of my doctors (my shrink included) and girlfriends say that I should be off any anti depressant if I am going to get pregnant. But each doctor has told me that if at any time the depression becomes unbearable that it poses more of a threat then the medication to any fetus.

So I'm wondering...how do you all feel? And has anyone here heard of Dr. Shosh? (http://drshosh.com/about/) She's written a book titled "Prozac and Pregnangy".

I'm tyring to use these "off cycles" to gather information so I can make a really informed decision. Any help you ladies can provide is always appreciated.

Thanks!

Lisa

My Blog http://gotnewsforyou.wordpress.com/

TTC Since Nov 2007        

9/08-1/09- 4 Clomid Cycles All  BFN

IVF # 1 - 4/16/09 - Started BCP  5/1/09 - Started Lupron and 3rd week of BCP - 5/11 Started Follistim 6/5 it's a BFP!!! Beta # 2 and 3 Didn't rise enough...M/C 7/4/09 I never knew you but I love and miss you already.

IVF # 2 - Started BCP 9/8/09 - Started Lupron 9/22 - Follistim Injections started 10/1 - ER 10/13 - ET 10/18

 

                     

                 

Lisa -

Hey! I am so glad you found us here!

I'm very familiar with the book you've mentioned and with Dr. Shoshana Bennett. (I've interviewed her for my blog and had several other professional contact with her through Postpartum Support International or PSI) She is really wonderful, knowledgeable and truly cares about all the women who reach out to her.

I would point you to www.motherisk.org/women/drugs.jsp to start with your research.

Also look up a researcher (out of the Motherisk program) named Adrienne Einarson. She's done several research studies regarding medications and pregnancy.

Bottom line is that you absolutely have to be comfortable with your decision. Make an informed and empowered decision and agree on no regrets or blame regarding that decision. YOU are the one who has to live with yourself, with your thoughts, etc. Yes, we need to consider the safety of baby too. And yes, depression does cross the placenta as well. It is not an easy decision to make at all. I applaud you for looking for information now and wanting to educate yourself. That's awesome!

Glad you stopped by and look forward to getting to know you.

Warmest,
Lauren