Dear GirlShrink,
My doctor told me I am at high risk for post partum depression if I have a child because I suffer from depression. They say its best if I don’t have any at all.
Thanks & Best Regards
Cassandra
Dear Cassandra,
I would get a second opinion from another physician. Sure – you are at risk of suffering from a little postpartum depression after birth based on your history, but that doesn’t mean that you cannot have children. I suffered from depression as well – and gave birth to three children. I only suffered postpartum depression with one. And I was in a partnership with my physician who quickly helped me develop a treatment plan during that time. Which was especially important because I was breastfeeding. So what do I recommend:
1. Get a second opinion and partner with a OBGYN who is familiar
with depression.
2. Make sure you have a support system in place for after the birth whether that is an additional family who comes to help you out fora month. OR you hire a nurse or nanny for a few months. Someone in addition to your spouse etc. to help with the transition into motherhood which is difficult even without depression:)
3. Have a therapist, counselor, religious leader. etc. in place ideally for the pregnancy and after the birth. Talk therapy will be an important part of the process as well.
