After my beautiful baby was born 14 months ago I suffered very badly from post natal depression. It was quite debilitating and one of the worse things I have ever had to go through in my life. It took me almost a year to beat it and now that my husband and I are thinking about having another baby I’m terrified that I might have to go through it all again. Is it common for it return with each pregnancy or is it just the luck of the draw?
2006-07-11 23:18:56 · 8 answers · asked by Pooh-bear74 2 in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Pregnancy
I too suffered great depression. It went on for 9 months before I was diagnosed. It took my cat dying of all things to trigger the final spiral downhill. My husband had found me in the shower, unable to get out, in a sever anxiety attack. My midwife put me on lexapro, I have been on it ever since.
When my hubby and I decided to have another baby I talked to my OB before hand. He decided to keep me on the lexapro through birth. I have an appt with my GP one week after my baby is born to have the medicine tweaked for any postpardem issues. I found that I did feel good this pregnancy until I tried to cut back on the lexapro and then I went all wacky, this was while I was still pregnant, imagine the complications I might have had if not on my meds.
In the midst of my depression, I found a wonderful lady online. Her name is Helena, she lost her daughter to PPD a few years ago and has dedicated her free time to helping others who are suffering. I would really recommend going to her site below and talking to her if you feel the need to. She is great.
The important thing to remember is this, the medicine is there and every day they are finding that each one is safer for the pregnancy than a mom without treatment. Prozac and Zoloft are two of the most well known, but even my lexapro is dropping on the concern list.
Take care of yourself kiddo...get control now so you don't slip down that awful whole again. I've been there and done that, I swear NEVER AGAIN!
2006-07-12 01:37:51 · answer #1 · answered by barefeet561 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I developed PN psychosis when my daughter was four mths old. With support from a friend, anti depressants and the need to get better I recovered in just over a year. Choosing to get pregnant with our second child was the most difficult decision I've made. I discussed my fears with my midwife and we agreed to start anti deps. at six weeks post natal. With the help of the drugs and my own awareness I didn't get sick after my 2nd child's birth. PND isn't predictable so, whatever you did or used to get well the first time begin to put in place earlier the second time. I also believe that the birth of your first baby is such a huge change and you have this completely dependent person needing you yet where do you start? The arrival of your second is a breeze because you know what you're doing thanks to your firstborn teaching you. All the very best with your decision, take care.
2006-07-12 00:44:02 · answer #2 · answered by Katie M 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am sorry to hear what you have been through and well done form surviving!
There is no certinity that you will get it this time, it is known that if you have a history of depression then you may be more susceptable to it in the future.
I do know some docs will prescribe anti depressants when your pregnant to try and combat it - many are safe to take when preggers.
Go talk you fears over with your dr.
2006-07-11 23:32:53 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
No two pregnancies are alike. I had the same problem after having my son and i wonder all the time "will it be the same if i get pregnant again" and my son is 5 years old.
I don't know if i ever will have anymore kids because of what i went through..I am scared it will be the same as when i was pregnant with him and after i had him.
Good luck and speak with your doctor about your concerns..
2006-07-11 23:27:32 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Higher chance of getting it, but it is still luck of the draw. On the plus side, since you have been there before, you and your husband know the warning signs. That will make recovery easier if you do have it again
2006-07-11 23:22:56 · answer #5 · answered by Theresa 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Chances are higher with your second and if you had it before. Talk with your OB about it. Meds VS no meds. Not sure if you "beat" the PPD on your own or with help. If you had help i.e. Individual therapy or group therapy just use the tools you were given and you'll be fine.
2006-07-12 00:15:43 · answer #6 · answered by Becky H 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Chances are, you will. Talk to your doctor about it and he can help you take care of it before it becomes too big. Good luck.
2006-07-12 01:29:03 · answer #7 · answered by guineasomelove 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Good possibility you will have it again.Talk to your doc about this
2006-07-11 23:23:14 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋