Having children raises questions in the minds of many women diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Difficulties that may be experienced during pregnancy, genetic transmission of bipolar disorder to the child, and disruptions that may be experienced while raising the child are some of the concerns of expectant mothers. First of all, it should be said that if you want to be a mother and raise a child and feel emotionally ready for this, there is no reason why you should not do this.
The probability of children with one of their parents suffering from bipolar disorder to be diagnosed with bipolar disorder is approximately 9%. This rate is not considered high enough to affect your idea of having children. For example, a parent with Huntington's disease has a 50% risk of genetically transmitting the disease to their child. This high rate and the risk that this disease will result in early death lead many Huntington's patients to choose not to have children.
The picture is quite different in bipolar disorder. Due to genetic predisposition, even if your child develops this disease, it may remain at a mild level or not at all. Additionally, more effective treatments may be available by the time your child becomes an adult.
Things to Consider During Pregnancy
Do not get the idea that being pregnant will protect you from episodes of mania and depression. In fact, pregnancy is a period of high risk for recurrence of episodes. A study conducted at Harvard Medical School found that 71% of pregnant women with bipolar disorder relapsed during pregnancy. This usually occurred as a depressive or mixed episode in the first trimester of pregnancy. This risk is twice as high in women who do not use medication during pregnancy compared to those who do.
Many psychiatric medications pose some level of risk to the developing baby, but not using medication can also be a risk. Untreated bipolar disorder poses a serious risk for pregnancy. For example, the expectant mother may go into a mania episode and behave in ways that put her health at risk; The baby may be harmed by behaviors such as excessive consumption of alcohol or cigarettes, risky driving, disruption or inadequacy of nutrition and sleep patterns, neglecting the doctor's check-ups that should be done during pregnancy. may harm your health. Be sure to follow your psychiatrist's recommendations about continuing to use medication during pregnancy. Do not skip your check-ups.
Be aware of alternative treatments. Various herbal supplements and vitamins can help you control your mood. Physical exercise, swimming and meditation will help you balance. You can also prepare for pregnancy and birth by getting support from birth psychologists. Take care of your health. During pregnancy, you should stay away from alcohol and cigarettes, eat healthy, avoid excessive coffee use and make sure you drink enough water. Get your regular sleep.
Your spouse's support is very important during this period. Share your feelings with your partner and communicate openly. Getting support from your family and social circle, apart from your spouse, is also very useful in coping with the difficulties you encounter during pregnancy.
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