Hi Bipolar Brethren,
I'm wondering whether anyone here who takes medication has children and, if so, how did you deal with medication issues? I have taken Depakote on and off for some years (and also Effexor) and am considering getting pregnant. I will speak to my doc about it and have done some research but am curious about any personal experience anyone would like to share. I'm really afraid that if I take a mood stabilizer or an antidepressant--even in the 2nd or 3rd trimester--I will damage the child.
Thanks for reading this post!
Schragie

taking anything in the first trimester is definitely bad news for the baby. Taking anything that effects how the brain works when its brain is develpoing is bad.
do a search using keywords "prgnancy" depakote" and effexor" you'lll bring up a few research articles on it.

You need to see a doctor though. They might have something that they Know doesn't cross the placenta.

Are you bp I or II or what?
If it is safe for you to do it ( ie you aren't going to go manic and destroy your relationships/life), you may just have to ride it out for the first trimester. There must be a time when you weren't on meds, it might be easier to deal with the bp if you know that there IS a point to it this time. A little person.

Thanks, Sarnie

I'm BP II and have been without meds before (more than a year at a stretch) with no problems. I will be seeing the doc this coming week to talk about pregnancy and have received some reassurance in the past that drugs like depakote could be taken safely in the 2nd or 3rd trimester (if necessary). I of course really don't want to take anything during pregnancy.

Thanks for the support!
Schragie