Quandary

[Sparkydo]

So I saw a psychiatrist and he basically said he thinks I needs medication for my depression and so has suggested I restart the citalopram 20mg I was on before I got pregnant - I'm now 21 weeks. He's suggested citalopram as we know it works for me and he thinks they're all much the same. He also said I can breast feed when the baby's born, which is important to me.

So I don't know what to do - do I tough it out without meds and be unhappy for the rest of my pregnancy, with subsequent increased risks of stillbirth, premature labour, low birth weight, PND and poor bonding/development etc? Or I do I take the citalopram, which I feel so guilty about doing and feel like I've failed in some way - risking withdrawal symptoms in the baby and a tiny (0.5% more) increased risk that the baby may be born with a potentially fatal heart condition?

My husband is great - he just wants me to be happy - but he's kind of left the decision up to me, which makes me feel like I'm on my own in making this decision and makes me feel even more isolated.

Any thoughts?

[droves]

I dont know much about side effects , but mabey you should talk to your MV ? She should know what ADs are safer during pg , or at least point you in the right direction of a doctor who would.

Its good that youve seen psychiatrist , and that they are going to help you .

congratulations on your pg !

[WowOoo]

If the doctor suggested it, surely it's safe?
You really need to look after yourself, don't you? You mustn't feel guilty about helping yourself. But, the decision is yours, yes.
Do you need more information before you can decide?

Hope someone with experience can help you soon.

[Albrecht]

It is your decision to make.

Is it your first? I don't want to sound very patronising but its really hard work for ages with a baby so you need to be in your best place to meet all the challenges. I thought I did a lot of research and I had no idea what it was really like once he arrived.

Practical things. If you would like to breastfeed, look in to local groups and go along BEFORE you have the baby. Its scary taking a newborn out and its scary asking for help from a stranger so if you are going to known place it will be easier. Even if you have no problems its good to go just to boost your confidence, maybe make some friends who have small babies.

Are you having counselling or are they just suggesting meds? Because if you have underlying issues they won't just disappear and could loom larger once you have your own child.