I'm 29 and 6 1/2 weeks pregnant with my third child. To be honest, the thought of breastfeeding my children terrifies me and always has. I had my first child too young, at age 20, and I was too scared to even ask about it, let alone try. The hospital didn't push breastfeeding, they just asked me if I had decided to, and out of fear, I said no, and chose formula. With my second daughter, my then undiagnosed bipolar disorder had me so unstable that it didn't seem possible. Now, depression and bipolar disorder fully diagnosed and treated, (and on pregnancy-safe meds), I am feeling more confident in my abilities to be able to handle the dependency of my child on me that would result from breastfeeding. But, not 100% confident, as I'm a first-timer in this area.
I have spoken to my doctors, and all of the meds that I am taking are safe during pregnancy, and will be safe to breastfeed on, although they ARE secreted in the breastmilk, so essentially my baby will be on depression and bipolar meds.
So now I'm grappling with a decision bigger than myself. Do you consider breastfeeding to be better even though I'm basically dosing my kid with psych meds? Or should I choose to bottle feed again? I do want to try it, but mostly I want to do what's best for my baby.
I still have lots of time to make a decision, I just thought I'd run it by you Moms and see what you thought. :)
That's an interesting question.
My logic here is the baby is already taking your meds. So, if you don't breastfeed, she is going off them abruptly, whereas if you breastfeed you will gradually ween her.
Keep in mind, N., that the important thing here really is THAT you feed your baby, not HOW you feed your baby.
If you bottle/formula feed, you're not a "failure" or less of a mom.
You're more of a mom when you make smart choices that work well for you and your baby.
Congrats on the BABY!
Kellymom.com is a wonderful resource for all breastfeeding questions. here are some links that address these kind of medications:
http://kellymom.com/bf/can-i-breastfeed/meds/antidepressa...
http://kellymom.com/bf/can-i-breastfeed/meds/antidepressa...
That is tough! I am sorry you have to go through that. Prayers are with you! This may not help, but if this were me I would investigate further into alternative/ natural treatments for bipolar disorder. I understand this is something you do not want to mess with. I have to be honest, I am an advocate for breast feeding. It is the best for baby, but I personally wouldn't risk it with the depression and bipolar meds. I do know those meds have its own side effects. Have you considered organic formula? This could be a better option instead of regular formula.
Just read Tracy K post...that is a good point! Atleast her baby will still be getting the good stuff with breast milk. Still a tough call
Knowledge is power and the docs don't always have time to research details. You have to go to infantrisk.com and you can talk to an advisor. I think you will then feel much more confident in whatever you decide. Although some meds are secreted, it is so minimal, while others aren't. It's hard to understand, but the benefits of breastfeeding are so substantial, that they may outweigh the slight amt. secreted. Anyway, good luck and God bless you and your family.
M.
N. I am going to be perfectly honest with you in what I would do and what I did do.
I will not and did not take meds when I was pregnant or nursing.
My pregnancy and breastfeeding was a long rough ride, and my breastfeeding was cut short because of it.
I did what was best for my kids, family and myself, and I dont care who cares about it.
I would personally go the formula route.
One second these meds are ok to take, the next you are seeing lawsuit commercials for them.
Not a chance I was willing to take. Sue me!
I don't really have an answer but just wanted to send a big hug your way! My son is diagnosed with bipolar disorder so I know all about the meds! I agree with the poster that your baby is already getting the meds your taking. Hang in there you have time to research your deciscions :)
I would talk to one last professional. The pharmacist who fills your prescriptions. They know meds, they work with meds every day. They know the details for each and every one that you are taking.
After that I would decide. If there are long time study's to show that these meds don't effect kids later in life then it is a pretty sure thing they would be safe.
Hi N.,
Have you thought about consulting a ND? An ND may be able to get you on something that will not affect the baby. Breastfeeding is very important but if you are on psych meds, I'd forgo it....
God bless!
M.
