PPD and starting anti-depressant before baby is born
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Anonymous
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I'm expecting #2 and based on previous experience I'm bracing for PPD. I'd stopped my meds for this pregnancy and Ive been doing ok albeit feeling a little flat.
My OB recommended starting an anti-depressant prior to delivery in order to head off the symptoms. Has anyone followed this protocol? I've heard that the baby experiences withdrawal and have some concerns but do know that benefits may outweigh this side effect. I'd appreciate any thoughts or experiences in this matter. Thx |
Anonymous
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I had pretty severe PPD with my last child. I weaned off my meds just before getting pregnant this time around.
I am also bracing for PPD - I am 33 weeks and just had an appointment with my psychiatrist last week. She prescribed me zoloft, and I had the prescription filled. That being said, I am not going to start taking it until after delivery. First, I may not need it (wishful thinking perhaps?). Second, if I do need it, I am prepared. I know the meds take two weeks or so to start to kick in, but at least I have a plan in place and am prepared. I know I can make it through 2/3 weeks if I have to, especially knowing relief is on the way. I guess it depends on your comfort level, and how severe your PPD was the first time around. Good luck to you!!! |
Anonymous
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I'll be following this thread because I just found out I am pregnant with #2 and had PPD with #1. I weaned off Zoloft at 6 months postpartum with #1, so have not been on any meds in over a year. However, my MD has also suggested I start taking them near the end of my pregnancy to prepare for the severe hormonal crash that follows childbirth. I too, am not convinced that I want to do this. Maybe it's wishful thinking for me as well, but I'd rather wait and see than assume the worst.
I was told that continuing to breastfeed while on the antidepressants is the best way to avoid withdrawal in the baby. |
Anonymous
| I was on Celexa throughout my pregnancy with #1 and am still on it (32 weeks with #2). Baby #1 showed no adverse effects at birth and my psychiatrist and OB agree that this treatment makes sense for me. Potential withdrawal affects are rare and temporary. If you need the meds, work with a good psych, make sure your OB is on board, and advocate for yourself. Good luck! |
Anonymous
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I've been on a low dose of zoloft for the entirety of my second pregnancy (second trimester now). I was struggling with severe anxiety and depression before, and know it will increase as the pregnancy goes forth. The plan is to also up my dosage now due to increased blood volume and kidney processing of the drug (this means it becomes less effective, thus needing more). I worry every day that I'm doing something wrong by taking it, but I know I'd not be able to function well otherwise and I want to be the best mom I can be to this little one.
FWIW, my shrink doesn't seem too too concerned with risks to the baby. Of course there can be some, but supposedly they are minimal (I hope). Make sure you take care of yourself! You're doing the right thing by planning ahead 
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Anonymous
| I, too, was on Celexa throughout my pregnancy, on the advice of my OB and a psychiatrist. No withdrawal effects on the baby. |
Anonymous
| I know my experience is just my experience, but I had pretty severe PPD that lasted for almost 9m after #1, and experienced nothing at all after #2. DH and I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop, and delightfully, it never did. |
Dogmama
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| I was concerned about not getting anti depressants (not for PPD- but I suffer from depression). Both Psychiatrist and Ob say it is fine (and recommended) to continue on Wellbutrin. |
Anonymous
| I'm 16w pregnant and on fairly conservative dose of Celexa (20mg). Due to benefits outweighing risks I didn't contemplate coming off the meds. I didn't know how this pregnancy would progress and know I'm at risk for PPD. That was enough for me. I hope you find the right choice for you, but waiting for meds to kick in postpartum sounds scary to me. |
Anonymous
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I tried getting off prozac when i found out i was pregnant with #2, but i don't do well without meds. I was not functional which was not ok given i have a toddler now. That is what i worry about - it will be harder this time because you have the older child too.
I think there may be some merit to this idea of starting meds before the birth. I plan to increase dose in late 3rd trimester. I do think there are real risks to these meds. My first child has some issues and i'll never know if they are prozac related (i took it all pregnancy). But in my case getting off meds is a worse option. My understanding is that breastfeeding is the best way to deal with withdrawal concerns for baby. Good luck original poster. |