Bump watch begins
The bump at 12 weeks:
Before you get all skritchy and start yelling that this is not at a bump by any stretch of the imagination, let's compare this to the bump at 15 weeks from my pregnancy with Leta:
Could someone please tell the woman in that photo to put some sunscreen on?
Also, some of you have suggested that I might be pregnant with twins, and believe me when I tell you that I lived with the nightmare of that possibility for ten and a half weeks. And no, I'm not going to apologize for referring to it as a nightmare, I'm sure your twins are lovely people. But I am not the type of person who can handle that type of chaos and readily admit that you are a better person than I am. We had the doctor check for twins during my sonogram, and she promises me that there was only one swimming around in there. Look:
I asked her if the sneaky twin could be hiding somewhere in a corner? Maybe it had dressed itself in an invisibility cloak? And she was all YOU'RE SO SILLY! And I was all, hmm, I don't think "silly" is the clinical term for it, do yourself a favor and REFRAIN FROM GOOGLING MY NAME.
Now, on to a burning question that's sort of sitting out there making a few people uncomfortable or at least a little more curious than they are used to being: I am still taking Prozac. Last year when I found out I was pregnant (the one that ended in miscarriage) we found the phone number for the doctor who treated me for postpartum depression in the hospital in 2004 and left a desperate message. He does not treat anyone outside of the hospital but was generous enough to return our call and answer our questions about medication during pregnancy, and his advice was to remain on Prozac (although he did suggest that I stop taking Neurontin and Valium). Prozac has a half-life so long that even if I had stopped taking it when I found out I was pregnant it would have remained in my system for several weeks. He's been treating postpartum depression for over 30 years and has seen hundreds of pregnant women who have continued taking Prozac go on to have perfectly healthy babies. My OBGYN agrees with him.
I do not know about any other medications, and if you have questions or concerns about your own you should call your doctor. I do know that I feel good about this decision, and so far things are really good. Am I physically miserable? Absolutely, but I'm really hopeful and coping like I should be. And this time I know exactly what signs and symptoms to look for in my mood and what tools I can turn to. I feel so much more prepared, like I know I'm about to jump into a pond full of crocodiles, and this time instead of throwing in my naked body head first I'm climbing into an armored Humvee that will be slowly lowered into the water, machine guns first.
Will people accuse me of putting my baby in danger by continuing to take Prozac? I expect that email or comment to hit within minutes. This wouldn't be the Internet without those lovely little cutie pies. Smooches! The reason I bring this up is because someone is out there right now trying to make the decision about whether or not to stay on her medication, and even if her doctor is telling her that she needs to, that it's perfectly okay, she knows that if she does she'll have to listen to some dickwad condemn her for trying to kill her baby. I want that woman to know that I am surrounded by those dickwads, they have my email address, my mailing address, their own websites where they go on and on about how sad it's going to be for my children to grow up with such a crazy mother (Hi, guys! Thanks for the traffic!), that I shouldn't be allowed to have another baby. IT'S ALL BEEN SAID ABOUT ME. All of it, the same things over and over again. I want you to know that all of those people are dealing with their own issues, it has absolutely nothing to do with you, and that I'm willing stand up for me and for you and say, hey, thanks for your concern, but I'm perfectly capable of making decisions for me and my baby.
You must have a dooce® Community account to leave a comment.
If you've already registered, login.
If this is your first time posting here, snag a free account.
Heather talks about public tantrums (from kids) on today's Momversation.
- RIP Louis Mortimer Armstrong: http://bit.ly/1R4tv6
- Hugs and kisses to you, too! RT: @Monkey_Tree: @dooce he probably committed suicide because he was tired of LISTENING TO YOU WHINE.
- Our fish just died. And I'm sitting here crying. And it wasn't even my fault!
292. Joey said:
I would KILL for that tummy. Though I would not lay off the curly fries for it, apparently.
In other words, lookin' good, mama.
Cheers!
293. Kay said:
First of all I think you look so beautiful in that picture! Second I think you're doing the right thing by staying on your meds. It is more dangerous for that little baby if you are falling apart and unable to cope than staying on your medication and being able to handle your day to day life. Enjoy being able to keep your shit together and enjoy the knowledge that you are doing the best for your baby by taking care of yourself. Lots of Love!
294. Molly said:
I've been thinking lately...that there's never a moment when we are protected from *life* and all its joys and problems, not even conception. Depression's part of that. Hate, terror, art, beauty, that too. Life comes from life--one of the great things about being a woman is you get to see that first-hand. Hell, all parents do. Dad can't stop having bad days, problems, either, just because there's a kid in the house. One of the shit things about being a woman is we get blamed for letting life interfere with our kids, when it's impossible not to, and unlike Dads, it's on the level of our health. Anyway, the more I think about it the more I realize that the whole business of reproducing is about growing up kids who have strong, healthy selves, that can navigate life. Not trying futilely to insulate them from it.
Short version: THANK YOU for sharing that you are taking care of yourself; I think that is a joyful way to welcome new life into the world.
295. Rhody said:
Heather,
Your bump is cute! Glad you are staying on the Prozac. Are you going to name the baby Obama?
296. mdog said:
Thank you, thank you, thank you for discussing your medical decisions in public, for being so informed and unapologetic. I'm always so angry when I post about stuff like this that I just come off hysterical, so I admire you for being so much more evolved than me about these things.
297. A Concerned Friend said:
Heather,
Thank you for this post. You have no idea how comforting your words are.
Again, thank you...
298. Bobbi said:
Good for you. Keep strong. It's not healthy for your baby to have a mom who needs to be on prozac but isn't either. Take care
299. Olivia said:
P.S. I heard Britney Spears is going on tour soon, maybe you can go to her concert and get her to drive you around in a golf cart? LOL! Hope so!
300. beth said:
After four kids, I would practically kill for that belly of yours. Sadly, "TAUT" is no longer a word used to describe any of my body parts, but it's my belly that misses it the most.
For insight (well, actually, that's probably a bit of a strong word for it...) into parenting OLDER kids (5, 7, 10 and 15), swing over to www.prettygoodday.com some time.
Good luck with everything! You're awesome.
301. Christina said:
Congrats Heather, I am so happy for your family! And thank you for posting about Prozac and pregnancy, you are helping a lot of women with your information. You are doing what's right for you and forget all of the internet crazies! Just don't start shooting heroin or something lol
302. Lunasea said:
I decided to stay on Prozac with my second because I had horrible PPD with my first. My little boy is fine, three years old and amazingly beautiful if I do say so myself. Who knows? Maybe Prozac babies turn out more attractive.
303. beth said:
Nice bump! After four kids, "taut" is not a word that comes to mind when I think of MY belly. (Other after effects of having four kids -- including getting kicked in the nuts by your toddler, learning to accept that your teenager hates school even though you were a total school nerd, and finding the humor in OCD, ADHD and flagrant disregard for parental rule -- can be found on my blog, Pretty Good Day.
Good luck with everything. You are awesome!
304. Pikette said:
You look gorgeous! Congratulations.....don't let the small unhappy people get to you! We need brave people like you......
305. Becky said:
This is very silly because I don't know you at all, but I honestly deep down in my heart want nothing more than happiness for you and your family. I wish you all the goodness the earth can provide. I believe you are making the best choice for your family and those dickwads can all go to hell.
306. Adi said:
You are looking great!! Who cares what anyone thinks as long as you are doing what is best for your health and the babies. Think of all the things woman used to do in the olden days while pregnant and their kids turned out fine.
307. jenB said:
You may remember, and for other folks information; I was on Paxil my entire pregnancy. I HAD to be, yes I intend that to be dramatic. It was a must have situation. I also breastfed on Paxil since my lactation consultant and doctor said the meds the babe got through the breast milk was tiny and breastfeeding outweighed the risk of my kid getting Paxilated. Heather, you probably know how I feel, but healthy and happy mom, is a good mom. I am happy for you. :-)
308. Margie said:
If it is any reassurance, a very good friend of mine took Prozac her whole pregnancy. . gave birth to a beautiful, healthy baby girl who is perfect in every way and is now a lovely 8-year old girl. And believe me, we did not want her mother going of her Prozac for anything!! :)
congrats and I hope the puking thing goes away for you soon. . I was one of the lucky ones . absolutely no morning sickness, nausea, etc. the whole pregancy.
309. Jennifer said:
That might be the cutest little belly bump ever.
I applaud you on having the proverbial balls to come out and say this is what I'm doing, it works for me and you all can suck it. You have to do what is right for you, bottom line. Anyone with a functioning brain cell who reads you blog knows you love your children more than life itself.
310. Mel said:
Amen Sistah! :D Support/love/good vibes being thrown your way!
311. Hope said:
Hurrah for you, Heather! Thanks for leaving your comments open so women can realize there are others out there dealing with pregnancy, depression, meds, and cute dogs that will let you balance a Cheeto on their nose.
Thanks!
312. Creature of Habit said:
Heather, thank you for writing this. It will give many people a lot of hope and strength.
313. Telly said:
As a married, successful, bipolar woman, the thought of getting pregnant and going without meds terrifies me. My mother (also mentally disordered) suffered from post-partum psychosis with me and actually tried to smother me (thank goodness for my aunt).
If and when I get pregnant I will not even consider endangering the life of my child, my life, or the strength of my marriage. Dose me, doc.
Good luck and God bless!!
314. Jen said:
You look pretty in that first photo. (I can't really see you in the second photo.) Your baby looks cute in the third photo.
315. girlrunningaround said:
Your baby bump is cute!
And you are brave for writing about all you are going through. I appreciate your honesty and candor and I hope it helps others who are in similar situations.
316. Sara said:
Dear Heather,
Thank you so much for writing this post. When you told us you were pregnant again (and mucho congrats!!), that's the first thing I thought of. I've been on Zoloft and Wellbutrin for a couple of years now and my husband and I are just beginning the try-and-get-pregnant process. Thank you for educating all of your readers and encourage us to take a stand in our own health care.
Oh, and to the haters: You guys are dicks. (and, yes, that's a direct quote from the South Park movie)
317. Leann said:
Wow, very cool! Congrats!
318. amyz5 said:
that was one of the bravest, most candid posts i have read.
mental health issues are nothing to screw with. and, like and other personal health choices...
NO ONE ELSE'S FRIGGIN' BUSINESS
very cool of you to do this. and i hope that others faced with the same fears will be inspired to listen to their own docs and not the internet loonies.
here's to the hurried end to your puking!
319. SuzieQ said:
You look great...don't give another thought to the idiots out in the masses..
320. just beth said:
and what would happen to a baby who's mama was so screwed up she couldn't take care of him/her because she had gone off her meds? people are so sactimonious sometimes. (vomit)
what i REALLY want to know, though, is are we (your loving internets) going to get to name the baby?? Bethany is a good choice for a girl. ;-)
oh, and will there be a giveaway if we can guess the sex? my vote is on boy. in which case, Bethany doesn't work so well.
xoxo
b.
321. Nicole said:
Thanks so much for sharing your Prozac info. My husband & I are going to start trying in the next few months, but I have The Crazy & have been trying to research my options. Not having anyone I know personally going through this decision, its nice to hear how you're dealing with it... especially since I remember reading how difficult your pregnancy with Leta was on you. Enjoy this special time for you & your family & thanks for putting your info out there in spite of the critics! :)
322. Kate said:
It's really all been said but add me to the list of readers who thinks you are brave as hell for putting this out there and have balls of steel for standing by your choice. You are an inspriration to real women everywhere.
As the old saying goes, If mama ain't happy, ain't NOBODY happy. Every woman who has ridden the roller coaster of pregnancy, birth and motherhood knows that you've GOT to take care of yourself in order to take care of your children.
You are beautiful and you are doing the right thing.
323. Tiana said:
I happen to love you.
Plus your baby (and adorable daughter) is (are) lucky to have you as a parent. You're amazing.
I get that baby bump when I eat a whole bag of Doritos... ouch. But mine goes away within hours.
Your baby bump is pretty and there's a tiny baby in there. Mine's orange mush. Though mine's probably tastier... but I wouldn't know.
Sorry I ramble.
324. Michelle said:
You look awesome, and you sound awesome, and you ARE awesome. I guess I could have bee a little more creative/literate/articulate with those compliments, but I think you'll understand, because let's face it. You're awesome!
186624. Jobetta said:
@144: I too, would make a new comment simply to correct a typo or grammatical error. Don't feel ashamed. Embrace it.
And congrats, Heather! I have a bump like that, but mine is purely the result of too many chocolate cookies from my coworker's kid's school fundraiser.
325. Amanda said:
Dude. Seriously. You need to eat a cheeseburger.
326. rach said:
First off, I can TOTALLY see your bump. I joke that I begin to show the second my husband gets off of me (I know, it's crude, but it's true...)
And, I had a miscarriage before my first and suffered tremendous depression. I have been on zoloft for both of my pregnancies and have a healthy girl Leta's age and a looking-healthy-so-far one on the way. Let me just say that happy mamas make happy babies.
Looking forward to following the bump!
327. Anonymous said:
i like you.. i really like you...
328. Erica Hennings said:
Standing and cheering in my living room!!! I support the decision (not that you really care) but I support you to continue to take the medicine that helps you cope and is SAVING YOUR LIFE! Very happy for you and your little "doocelet" (Rhymes with piglet for those who aint from the south)
329. MamaCass said:
Anyone who criticizes you for making any decision you make with your own health and the health of your baby in mind is a loser. Good for you for looking into it, and for recognizing the positive things that can come of staying on meds...things that will be good for you as a person, and for your baby as his or her mother.
330. April said:
My bump is totally bigger than your bump!
I mean, I'm not pregnant or anything, but still...
331. Anonymous said:
First?
332. Anonymous said:
this very afternoon, at my friendly local pharmacy, while picking up my prozac and prenatal vitamins, the woman at the cash register said, "are you sure this is okay to take during pregnancy?" and i was all, "yeah, i'm pretty sure they WANT you to take prenatal vitamins. but thank you so much for your concern" and paid, and sobbed in the car.
thank you, heather armstrong, total stranger. this was perfect today.
333. Wren said:
I think it's fantastic that you're staying on your meds -- and I'm sure that you'll have a healthy, lovely little new human who will appreciate that it's mother is also happy and healthy. I'm continuing to think good thoughts to you and yours!
334. Joanna said:
You look healthy, you sound healthy! I'm so happy for you, (except for the puking part, what a bummer)
It wasn't until after my daughter's birth that I was diagnosed with chronic depression. It took me a few years to accept that it is a chemical imbalance, not a bad mood I can will away, or a character defect I can relieve through therapy. The medication I take now saved my life, and my daughter is healthy and happy because she has a responsible mom who takes care of her health. I wish I had known these things before because it would have saved me from a lot of suffering. Thanks for sharing your story because it makes a difference in the world to people like me.
335. Christina said:
I think the best moms are the moms who know how to take care of themselves! Sounds like you and your doctor know what's best! :-)
Congrats!
336. thefirecat said:
Ok, here's my thinking on the anti-depressant baby stuff.
The worst thing you could possibly do to that little teeny wiggle of humanity in there? Is to be unable to function for it as a parent when it needs you. Which, i seems, includes taking Prozac.
I speak this from behind eleven-plus years of Effexor, so I've got a clue what sorts of things you're going through. A little bit of in utero Prozac ain't nothing compared to a mama who god forbid isn't there to watch you grow up.
But could you do us all a favour and get a little less gorgeous? Maybe just a teeny bit? One itty-bitty hormone breakout? Anything???
Smooches, yourself!
PS, hey Heather of four years ago! PUT SUNSCREEN ON!!
337. Melissa said:
Oh, how I wish I ever had a cute bump like that!! I always ate too much and just turned into a fatty! And my last one was TWO so now I have the twin skin!! Congrats!
338. ColleenSchmitt said:
Did you see this?
http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2008/nov/29/unpublished-999-call-transcript-birth?%3EUnpublished%20999%20call%20transcript%20|%20Birth%3C/a%3E%20[guardian.co.uk%20via%20%3Ca%20href=
339. Kim said:
What an adorable fetus!
I think staying on meds is an excellent decision, not that you need me to affirm you (but I do). Your baby needs a healthy mama, inside and out!
340. Anna said:
I have the same "baby bump" after Thanksgiving weekend. You look gorgeous. And also... you're just so cool.
341. kimberly said:
Part of being a good mother is taking care of yourself. If your doctor says its okay to take Prozac while preggers then you have all the "permission" needed.
Congratulations!
342. Anonymous said:
243,649 comments! Holy crap.
Whats up with the comment counter? ;-)
343. jennifer said:
i wasn't a reader of your blog through your first pregnancy, but from what you have mentioned in the past year, i could relate to your postpartum issues. i have a two year old and i am still taking lexapro just to keep level. i am afraid of getting pregnant again. i didn't have problems with the pregnancy part, it was the mess i became afterwards. so... you go first and maybe i will be brave enough to follow.
344. Julia said:
Your fabulousness continues! You look fabulous and I think you have made the best possible decision for you and your little 'un.
345. Lara said:
Heather - Eight years ago when I was pregnant with my son, both my primary care doctor, my therapist and my midwife all said I needed to stay on Prozac for my well being and they all assured me that it would in no way harm the baby. I am happy to say that my beautiful son, Alex, is perfectly healthy in every way. I am sure you have had a bunch of people relate the same experience and, of course, there will be those that tell you how horrible it is, but I am guessing none of those people have ever been in the deep dark pit of depression.
346. amy said:
Mighty fine bump you got going there! Congratulations.
I took Paxil throughout my pregnancy with my twins (my twins, not yours, heh.) because there was no way in hell I could go through the post partum I went through with my firstborn, nor could I imagine going off the meds (then or anytime soon).
They are 11 now and A honors with NO medical concerns. Not sure how the hell THAT happened considering I am their mother but there you go.
All the best, Amy
347. Been there, done that. =) said:
I found out I was pregnant two weeks after our oldest child unexpectedly passed away (Feb 2006). I wouldn't have functioned without being on Lexapro my entire pregnancy. The grief was too much. Add pregnancy and morning sickness to that and I was in total hell. My son, who is two, turned out just fine.
Keep on with your bad self girl!
348. Mari said:
Awww, you look beauteous! I am so sorry you still feel sick. Hope it goes away : )
280495872. Trinity said:
Amen Becca.
349. Anonymous said:
I stayed on Zoloft throughout my pregnancy. Not a big deal and better for everyone really. The only side effects on my daughter were that she was just a little twitchy for a couple days (I guess from her detoxing the Zoloft) but not so much that anyone would notice. Aren't most newborns twitchy anyways? I have recently starting reading your blog and have really been enjoying it. Thanks!
350. Jamie said:
Yes! I agree with you 100%. When pregnant with both of my perfectly healthy, perfectly developed little boys I decided to remain on my anti-depressant (Zoloft) but had to stop the Topamax and Neurontin. There were no negative side effects and I was able to remain my relatively "normal" self throughout the pregnancy save for the more frequent migraines since I was off my migraine prevention medications. It was worth it and I too will stand up to anyone, anywhere who wants to condemn me for taking care of myself while growing another human being. I suffered from PPD too after both and asked for a shot of progesterone. Although it burns like a mother and hurts for a few days I highly recommend it a couple of days after giving birth. It doesn't cure all the "baby blues" but it does allow your body to step-down from the pregnancy progesterone slower than the sudden drop off after delivery. Best wishes for a happy, healthy pregnancy!
351. Baby Favorite said:
My baby bump's bigger than yours, and I haven't been pregnant in 10 years. Let me go slit my wrists now.
Kidding.
(Somewhat. I'm kidding about killing myself. Not about the non-baby bump that I have.)
Congratulations--you look beautiful and healthy! Here's to a more tolerable rest of your pregnancy...
352. Melissa said:
You are so freakin' cute with your little bump!
Congratulations and good thoughts to you and your growing family!
353. Christina said:
Bravo!
You look beautiful, the belly pics and sono are precious.
I think I must be an oddball...I showed later, was smaller, and had littler babies with each pregnancy. Thank goodness it worked out that way, my first was almost 10 pounds!
354. Melanie said:
Both my babies were conceived, gestated and birthed while mom was on Prozac. The alternative is, well, let's not go there. They are both healthy as horses, very bright and sometimes even capable of being lovely human beings. But they are 6 and 12, and nothing can really FIX that....
You look beautiful, Heather. Your joy is contagious. I'm looking forward to sharing this pregnancy with you.
Okay, that just got weird.
355. kbow said:
Congratulations! Thanks for putting yourself out there again. Seriously, people get so up in others biznezz. I was judgmental of my sister's parenting skills...until I had my own kids.
Comment #40 OMG! I'm laughing so hard. You want fries with that?
356. pinky bear said:
I have just found your blog and have to say congrats with the pregnancy! I must admit that I was overwhelmed when I found out I was having twins, and was worried they had missed a third on the ultrasound. Its worked out well with the creatures because I have had no single child to compare with....
Just want to add that Motherisk is a great resource here in Toronto...and good for you for making an informed decision to stay on your meds...anxious and depressed mothers make anxious and depressed babies....we all deserve to be happy...
357. Anonymous said:
Good for you. You are doing fine and are a great mother. I know how you feel, you know what's best and I would say it shows great responsibility to check into those questions instead of just going along like nothing is different. That is being responsible. Stay strong.
358. yoyo said:
I like you. Has anybody told you that you're the shit?
46656. Katie said:
I'm not pregnant, but squirrel-cheeked atomic fireballs + lemonade sounds awesome. I will have to try that.
And, Heather, you and The Bump look gorgeous and I'm glad you feel good about your meds decision.
359. CupcakeMurphy said:
Ok, so to show you OUR appreciation we're all going to ride Flexi-Flyers to your house and throw you a shower! Just kidding. Although I wish all of the people who sit down every evening to surf around and think about this and read that and soak it up and take it in and who always always eventually click on Dooce.com to read your hilarious, deep, wise, FUNNY-FUNNY-FUNNY (almost too funny but in a good way, in a face scrunching I-can't-believe-someone-else-has-thought-that-too-thank-GAWD way) musings and photos and gadgets and where was I? Yes, I wish all the people that you've...sorry I have to say it...touched in some way could give you lots of presents and smiles and a parade perhaps because that's what you deserve. But you don't need all of that and besides it would be extremely creepy. You just need to keep going and don't forget about all of us waiting to see your next creation which we all know will be perfection. I have known THREE, count em THREE, women who have taken Prozac during their pregnancy and I think my phone is beeping because they are calling me and my husband to babysit. Thank you for the miraculous website.
360. Eve Grey said:
I have twins and I am not the type of person who can handle that type of chaos either!!! My daughter was two when the sneaky scoundrels were born. And yes, it was a living nightmare (bless their sweet hearts).
Congratulations on the singleton part deux.
361. Beverly said:
Every expecting mother is beautiful. And you are beautiful. Congratulations Heather!
362. Erin said:
Man, I wanted to not like you because your baby bump is still flatter than my normal stomach, but then you went and got all awesome talking about your decision to stay on Prozac. Seriously, you are an inspiration- congrats on the pregnancy!!
363. Beverly said:
i am not one of those yucko's who tell you what to do....I am a neonatal nurse for f*rty years and you seem to me to be making very informed decisions about you and your baby. i wish you well...and look forward to bump pictures...
364. Beverly said:
Every expecting mother is beautiful. And you are beautiful. Congratulations Heather!
365. Arminda said:
Heather, You are really an awesome inspiration. I'm so glad you are out here standing up for yourself and other women who may need to hear just the things you so humorously say. I LOVE your site. It helps me to know that the crazy is not for me to keep to myself, but to bestow on others. Congratulations and I hope the barf goes away soon.
366. Amy said:
I took 40 mg of prozac daily while I was pregnant w/ child #2 - every single day.
She is currently a 7 year old drama-queen-first-grader recently put in the program for the extra smart first-graders. she was born at 9 lbs, with 10 fingers, 10 toes, healthy, happy and beautiful.
best of all - she had a mentally stable mother who very much enjoyed the first few weeks of her babyhood... i was "new mommy" tired and exhausted - even a little emotional - but not hopeless, not dangerous.
the prozac is safe - staying on meds showed me how much i missed with baby #1 due to the awful fog of severe ppd. Take care of you - baby will be a-ok.
367. emily l said:
Heather,
I've never commented on this blog, but I can't tell you how much reading about this pregnancy and Leta's means to me. I'm just starting to think about the possibility of kids, but as somebody who's severely bipolar, I'm also scared of what that means for my medicine. Thank you for making me feel that it can be possible.
368. jiyin said:
That's one cute little goldfish in that sonogram. Best of luck, Heather. I am sure you'll be just fine.
369. Bev said:
Congratulations Heather! I know that you'll be a great mother to your new baby as you are with Leta.
370. Sabrina said:
Congrats and well said. I found you guys right after I had our January 2004 baby boy and we're due in April with another boy...looking forward to your realism and humor throughout this one too. Keep up the phenominal work and enjoy your food...I feel the same and PS odds are in your favor that the crapness will go away and the food will STILL taste like you're tripping.
371. Kirsten said:
And what a cute bump it is. I am thrilled for you and your family!
372. Meegan said:
Your bump is lame, but I still love you. I looked like that BEFORE I had even one baby. And now I have two and I WISH my bump looked like yours.
I took Lexapro through both pregnancies. I also had to begin Risperdol at the end of the second because I started losing my shit. I found the second pregnancy MUCH harder, emotionally, than the first. I also suffered from PPD and I also regularly take a cocktail of meds to prevent me from throwing a full liter sized bottle of water at my husband's head. True story. For you it was milk, for me it was water. Go figure. Anyway, I have two healthy babies and so will you.
Last but not least, I've recently replaced the Neurontin for Lamictal and I only have to take one pill, once a day. Not sure what your protocol is/was for the Neurontin but you might want to ask your doc about Lamictal. I heart it.
373. Mattisimo said:
Congrats on your progress! And don't let anyone tell you how you should deal with your own pregnancy!
374. Megan said:
I have studied this a lot in pharmacy school..Prozac is pregnancy category C just meaning the benefits of taking the drug have to outweigh the risks of not taking the drug during the pregnancy. With what happened previously, I completely understand why you'd choose to stay on it. Don't let shit-for-brains dickwads put you down!!
375. Nicole Miraty said:
Heather,
I had to go on Prozac after the birth of my second child. It was a God-send and was the best thing that I have ever done. When I got pregnant again I took it through my entire pregnancy with not a single problem or lasting effect. If I had quit taking it I'm sure that I would have had problems. It's hard to take proper care of yourself when you are in the grips of depression, even when you want to. Taking Prozac should be low on your list of worries, below the sucky morning sickness. Stay strong, you'll make it.
Nicole "Miraty"
376. The Independent Mom! said:
Seriously, you do what is needed to remain healthy and you listen to your doctors - that is how it should be.
At lest you're not this asshat
49248. Alison said:
Good for you! I was wondering what you were doing - excepting, hoping that you'd stick with the medicine that works for you.
My husband and I are trying to get pregnant. I asked my doctor about my antidepressant and she switched me to another one. It just isn't working to the point where it is impacting my ability to work. I switched back and could feel the difference.
So today I'm at my desk thinking how much I love my job and how I'm worried that I could lose it if I give up my meds in order to have a baby (seriously, it's not good without the right stuff). Then I'd have a baby and, perhaps, no job. Yeah, maybe the reason I'm not conceiving is stress - just maybe.
Do what you need to do for you and your family.
377. Elissa Minor Rust said:
Good for you, Heather. I took antidepressants through my third pregnancy to avoid the complete freak out lunacy that followed my first two. And guess what? Not only is she my most beautiful, easy going child, but I actually enjoyed her infancy. My husband looked at me our second day in the hospital after she was born and said, "You haven't had any crying jags." And it was true. I didn't have any, and I felt happy the way I always heard people did when they birthed babies.
You're making the right decision for yourself. And a huge congratulations, by the way!
378. Jaclyn said:
With the advice of my OB-Gyn, psychiatrist, therapist and fertility doc, I was on Zoloft for both of my pregnancies and I have two healthy, happy daughters (3 years and 8 months)...and my daughters have a healthy, happy mommy!
Congratulations on the new belly critter! Here's hoping the puking stops soon.
379. Anna said:
Congratulations!
380. SusannahS said:
Kudos to you and your family! One of my biggest fears is what I will do when I start a family. I've been on Prozac for 14 years and I *need* it if I don't want to live my live crying while curled in the corner of the closet. Reading this gives me hope for my future.
381. silk said:
SUFFERING REDUCTION SUGGESTION:
I don't have time to read all the comments, and I would be amazed if you did, Heather. So I am probably repeating something someone else may have already told you. BUT. Just in case. I had two VERY different pregnancies, one with mega ultra HORRID gastroinstestinal issues. Two products that are VERY baby safe and made a WORLD of difference: one, simethicone, the brand name, which I think is call Mylanta Gas now. There are several, but that absorbed the best for ME. I bloated up to my THROAT. So much gas that made my stomach SO HARD and large that they thought I was going to have twins. Number two, which is really great, because it is not internal: SEABANDS. These are small bands that encircle your wrists and put pressure on a particular spot that dull the nerve messages to your brain and reduce your ability to feel nausea. I think. It's been awhile. But they worked AMAZING for me. They are usually used in sea sickeness or chemotherapy patients. The best to you.
382. Michael said:
Congratulations to you and Jon. I hope you get over your morning sickness soon. That's really gotta suck. If your doctor feels it's safe for you to stay on your meds then screw the dickwads I say. Love your blog.
383. Tanya said:
What a gorgeous photo of you! I can't believe a human is growing in that tiny little bump, it is amazing.
Stop getting all defensive, by the way. We adore you here.
Instead, how about one of those fantabulous exclamation point! exclamation point! exclamation point! posts. I love those.
384. Jessica said:
I think I see the bump! :) I know, it's different when it's your own body. I've been told that I'm "not that big," but I feel like I'm carrying around a Butterball in my stomach. Also, from what I've heard, there are many safe anti-depressants to take during pregnancy, and it's better for the baby for the mother to be in good spirits and coping well than to make the mom stop taking the meds. I almost had to go on one due to panic attacks early in my pregnancy, but luckily, I was able to start coping (not sure if it was the change in hormones or the therapy, but something worked). I'm glad to hear you're feeling well. Well, besides the morning sickness. :)
385. Shawn said:
Hey Heather,
If the dickweeds want to micro manage someone's pregnancy, then they can just go get pregnant and micromanage themselves. Now *that's* a scary thought, sometimes those 'lil dickweeds grow up and become president, no not our cool new president, our old lamest duck ever president. I wonder what would happen if you smoked dickweed while preggers? Maybe you'd actually see that baby bump.
Seriously many happy returns to you, Jon, Leeta, Chuck and Satan,
Shawn & Heather (no not you, *my* Heather)
386. Chrissy said:
I've been reading your blog for a few years and have been wanting to tell you for a long time THANK YOU. I wish I knew of your blog when I went through my post-partum 'crazy'. To have such an accomplished & confident woman such as yourself stand up & admit without embarassment your need to be on medication is an affirmation to the countless women out there who suffer silently.
Congratulations on your pregnancy & thank you for being so open about your life. Oh and about that bump...please! I have a bigger bump after having a bagel for breakfast.
C
387. Dee said:
Hmm... your bump is about how I look after a big meal. I looked like than last Thursday, as a matter of fact.
I applaud you for telling the world you are continuing your meds and it's nobody's business. Your body, your decision.
My daughter suffers from nausea a lot in the car. She likes to sit next to a partly opened window with her cheek up against the cool glass. That's all I can offer, sorry...
What are you going to call the baby, pre-birth? Everyone does nicknames now. I like Eggbert, or Alien....
Good luck!
Dee
388. no one said:
Frequent lurker, infrequent commenter. I just wanted to say that I personally and professionally am REALLY HAPPY that you have a prescriber who realizes that SSRIs are basically safe during pregnancy and that the benefits outweigh the risks for many parents.
I have a close friend who has severe depression, functions super-well when on an SSRI, and has had episodes of depression with psychotic features about once a year when not on her SSRI. When she was pregnant with her first child, she couldn't find anyone who would continue prescribing it. She experienced severe post-partum depression after this child. She went back on meds shortly after this and recovered quite well. With the second kid, same thing happened. Only this time, she couldn't find anyone in her area who was willing to prescribe the meds AFTER THE KID WAS BORN. The doctors where she lives insisted she was going to destroy her child by not breastfeeding. You know, because being psychotic doesn't affect your small child at all. So anyway, she finally had the means to get back to the U.S. when her second child was about 9 months old. She got back on her meds, and for almost a year after that, she presented as having persistent mental illness. Like, she was really flat, didn't get people's jokes, asked people the same questions over and over. She tried all different meds to see if she had perhaps developed another disorder in addition to depression, but it didn't seem to be anything else; it just took her that long to get back to herself. Uh, yeah, much more harmful to both of her children and her partner than just taking the SSRIs would have been.
Best of luck with everything (and now I have to go all fangirl on you and tell you I love your website and you're the coolest!)
389. Nikki said:
Bravo. Kudos. Congrats.
Way not to let the turkeys get you down. I admire your wonderfully healthy attitude about what is right for you... and your family.
I'm very excited about your journey, and selfishly excited for all the good blog fodder a new baby will provide. Thanks for that!
Oh, and did I say congrats?!? : )
390. Jessica McLeod said:
When I first discovered your blog and read through the archives, it inspired me to go see a psychiatrist and get my antidepressant changed to something that would be safe during pregnancy. (I feel even better now). Thank you!
391. sue.g said:
I commend you for making an informed decision and saying, "Screw you" to all the nay-sayers that think they know your situation better. The people that are truly fit to be parents are bor-ring!
Your imagined bump is lovely. My thoughts and prayers for a happy pregnancy and healthy baby are with you.
392. Jill said:
My first child is crazy - she is Leta's age. I was not on prozac during that pregnancy and she is crazy hyper, crazy obsessive compulsive.... lots of "quirks"! My second I was on prozac (for post-partum from the first and then I continued on it and will be on it for life) and my second baby is a dream. She is relaxed, healthy and is everything they describe a baby should be like! You are correcting an imbalance in your own brain and body - that can only help the baby. There are no side effects with prozac- good luck!
393. Mom/human/nurse said:
Go Heather, you are inspirational.
BTW ladies, if you are concerned about PPD, there are some commonsense ways to keep it away or milder. Get a good birth plan and hire the least invasive OB you can, as many "modern" interventions such as Pit to randomly hurry labor and C-Sections for the same reason can cause stress that is contributory. So take charge, empowerment lowers depression. Also, take a tip from our sisters who lived in caves. No, silly, do not dig a hole and squat in it. Instead, line up some good female companionship for the first two weeks to help you by watching the baby when it naps in the daytime so you can go without the monitor and nap yourself, fix you fruit and other treats so you can nurse and relax, and run the washing machine and the vacuum. Husbands are great but it is easier to relax if you have girlz to do these, not yer mom, but true friends. Help each other out and you will all feel better, and the lowered stress will help the meds work if you need them.
394. the dalai mama said:
I love your candor, honesty and strength. I can only imagine how judgemental people are towards you--one only has to read the comments.
You rock and there are women out there now breathing a sigh of relief knowing they are not alone.
Rock on and take care of yourself.
395. Stacey said:
I think you're absolutely beautiful, in all ways, and can't even express how inspirational you are. Thank you for sharing your life with complete strangers, despite not being able to choose which strangers will share THEIR lives with YOU. That takes an incredible amount of guts.
396. Kim said:
Yep...I'm that woman rending her garments and second guessing herself constantly about whether to stay on my Prozac while we try to get pregnant. I know what happens when I go off, so I know it's not really an option, but I hate the fact that I have to make the decision at all. People act like I haven't even considered going off my meds. HELLO! It's practically all I ever think about!
I'm so excited for you and your family, and I thank you for putting yourself out there and standing up for us no-good pillpoppers!
243650. Anonymous said:
do the world a favor and sterilize yourself please. if you have nothing better to do than come here and criticize dooce, then you need to just shut the fuck up.
397. Lanna Lee Maheux-Quinn said:
I am so happy for you and your family. When you made the announcement, I cried. And I cried again reading this post. And we have never met! (Of course, sometimes I cry at commercials, so maybe that doesn't signify.)
[Sorry about the trolls.]
Congratulations! Here's to many more months of baby bumps!
398. Fleuris said:
You're making the right decision. I know many women who stayed on meds and had beautiful, healthy babies.
399. Jana said:
Right on! As I was reading that last paragraph (don't laugh) I actually teared up a little. I'm not currently pregnant but I will eventually need to make the decision whether to stay on meds when I am. You are a wonderful inspiration.
Congratulations again!
400. Sara said:
My own mom was depressed and hospitalized for it when she was pregnant with me (hospitalized when I was an infant). Babies really pick up on that in their development, and there is a direct link with emotional babies growing up from depressed moms. I'm SUPER empathetic and emotional compared to my three siblings and I think it is all because of that experience.
Kudos to you for sticking to your guns. You'll have a happy anti-depressant baby. :)
401. Ca-Ray-Zee said:
I am the crazy. I live the crazy. So I take the crazy cocktail, straight up, on the rocks with no salt (which includes a hefty dose of Prozac), because if I don't take said cocktail, I throw things, speak in tongues and wake up at 2 a.m. to tell my husband that I have to drive steak knives through my wrists and crucify myself like Jesus. <----True story.
And guess what? I am a good, no GREAT, mom. I have three healthy, ridiculously intelligent children who I'm convinced belong to someone else, as I am clearly not (mentally) healthy nor ridiculously intelligent myself. Beautiful, healthy, smart little spawns of Prozac.
Trust your gut and trust your doc.
And fuck off, naysayers! [Can I say 'fuck' on dooce.com?]
And GO DOOCE!
402. Erika said:
Congratulations! You're going to be a fantastic mother (again!). Thank you, as always, for sharing your life with us. Kudos to you for not only doing what is best for you, your family, and your little bump, but for proudly telling us about it too.
403. Andrea Frazer said:
Congrats! I took Zoloft when I was pregnant with both my kids and they turned out fine. I am so grateful for the meds. I will be tuning in!
404. Kristi said:
First, your bump is lovely. Congratulations! Second, thank you, thank you, thank you for being so frank, honest and upfront with everyone about these issues. Depression, the struggle about the decisions with medication, our dogs that try to take over our lives by destroying the inside of our houses- thank you.
I loved being pregnant with all three of my girls, but still spent every pregnancy terrified that I would do something or have something genetically wrong that would hurt my child. And the "helpful" people were usually the ones who made my fears worse.
My only advice for women/families who are having babies- You know what's good for you and your family. You know what will work and what won't. Listen to all the advice, smile, nod and forget everything that makes no sense for YOU. The last time some stranger told me I was eating something I shouldn't while pregnant, I asked them ,"I'm so sorry, I must have forgotten where we met. You're Doctor....??"
I still smile when I picture that cow's face going all red before she huffed away.
Wishing you and yours good health and happiness.
405. Marnie said:
I do not take offense AT ALL to your twin comment. I have 25 month old twin girls and the entire experience has indeed been a NIGHTMARE. I love them to death but if I could do it all over again I would have had one at a time - like normal people do. I am currently 8 weeks pregnant with #3 - thankfully just one and I too am staying on my antidepressants. I took Prozac the entire time when I was pregnant with the twins and it wasn't enough for me. I took a nice vacation to the local mental hospital when they were 10 months old. SO - this time I am on Wellbutrin and Effexor because the benefits FAR outweigh the risks. GOOD FOR YOU for taking care of you and laying it all out there for everyone to know. All that matters is that you do what's best for you, your family and your little bean!!!!!
406. Walking With Scissors said:
That's it. I officially hate you. At this rate, you'll be 9 months pregnant and I'll still have a bigger belly than you - and I'm NOT pregnant. Dang, woman.
As for the flack about the anti-depressants: anyone who gives you a hard time has obviously never lived with the disease. If you've been given express permission by your doctor, then everyone else should butt out. Healthy, happy mommy equals good mommy. The end.
Oh, and eat a cheeseburger. Or ten. For me. And then email me and tell me how terrible they tasted. You know. As inspiration for me to eat more vegetables. :)
407. Michelle said:
You should consider finding a pregnancy registry for women taking prozac (or general antidepressants). I joined a registry for women on seizure meds during both pregnancies (I have epilepsy). It just involved 3 short phone calls (2 during pregnancy and 1 after the baby was born). Basically, they just want to know if there are any reported problems with the child.
I found great support in that. They don't always have the most conclusive results to share, expeically if the drug is relatively new, but at least your success story will be a comfort to moms who get the info down the road. They did send me newsletters with their updated results.
I found the registry info through my drs., but a google search would probably turn out the same results.
On another note, thank goodness you have the skinny pregnant face, and here's hoping you keep it the entire time!
408. Gina said:
I am really glad you made this post today. I have recently seen some of the condemners of whom you speak and I was APPALLED. The nerve! I wanted to shout from the hilltops to defend your honor. But you do such a good job by yourself I figured it would only be a hinderance.
I find you to be a breath of fresh air. From the little I know about you, the thing I know to be the most true is your relationships with Jon and Leta. You are a beautiful family and you don't deserve all of the negatives sent your way - but I guess it just proves that you are doing everything right, for what kind of world would it be if people kept all of that helpful knowledge about how YOU should live your life to themselves. I for one would be lost.
I (heart) you and your family. Please adopt me.
409. Becky said:
Lucky baby to get such a beautiful, loving family. I wasn't reading you first time around, so I'm happy to be enjoying your adventure this time.
410. Jessica said:
I've been reading since before you were pregnant with Leta and I think this is the first time I've ever commented. I clicked on the comments prepared just to add some more "positive" to the statistics to sort of counteract the ignorant people. After reading the first 200 or so I'm happy to see that it's unnecessary!
I'm so happy for your family that it's going to get bigger!
411. Karen said:
We love our Dooce and her prozac-takin'-bump-havin' self!!!
412. HippieChyck said:
hooray! you go.
413. Cee said:
Pretty, pretty baby bump.
And thank you from someone who does not have a bump- yet- but has high hopes that staying on her meds will make it all possible one day...
414. Michelle said:
Thank you for posting this. Thank you for standing up for all of us who battle depression, anxiety, and whatever other basket full of goodies lives in our heads, and still manage to be good moms. Thank you for being brave enough to have another baby and showing the world that we CAN do it.
Rock on with your armored Humvee friend.... I'll be excited to watch the progress. I just had my first baby, and I'm cracker nuts, too. But you know what? Turns out I CAN do this and I'm a damn good mom.
415. Laura said:
Yep, it's SAFE!I'm a pharmacist who focuses on the safety of drugs in breastfeeding and pregnancy, and I had to make that decision myself. About half-way through my pregnancy, I had SLOWLY weaned myself off Celexa, and suddenly we had the episode of YOUR DIRTY SOCKS ARE ON THE FLOOR! I was expected to pick up his USED socks while pregnant? Oh, HORRORS! I went over the edge on that one, and the next day, I went back on the Celexa, though at a lower dose (was on 30mg, now on 20mg). My baby, the now 2.5 hour old RootSnort, was FINE. And since I was breastfeeding, he didn't go through withdrawal and become irritable baby after he was born. He's been happy Zen baby ever since. And now happy zen toddler, which is really saying something.
So people just need to realize that science has come along way, we have the data that says it's OK to do this (though I would avoid Paxil myself), and they can just lump it.
I am so happy for y'all!
416. Kerry said:
I so don't envy your "morning" sickness. I had it with my twins until 14 weeks and absolutely nothing helped! Hopefully it should be over any day now for you.
417. Annie said:
Heather, I'm going to tell you something right now. I'm the adoptive mom to an 8 1/2 year old son. His bio mom took antidepressants throughout her pregnancy...I wish she had the support you have, and I wish she'd taken more. Because she tried to commit suicide while pregnant. She failed. I have a son who is alive today and has NO SIDE EFFECTS AT ALL from the antidepressants his mom took. Now, the meth, heroin, LSD, etc., have made for some interesting times....
Seriously...it's something your body needs. And your baby needs a healthy mom. And from what I read every day, you are an awesome mom. Your daughter is filled with intelligence, humor, and love. Keep it up. And do whatever you need to do to stay healthy.
418. E-Lo said:
Hm. I know this is way down on the list of comments, but I hope you get to read this, Heather. I know that the next time I get pregnant (and there will be a next time, I'm already planning on trying around April), I'll definitely be conferring with all my doctors to make sure I'm able to stay on my meds. My last pregnancy was miserable, and I didn't realize it then, but what I was dealing with was severe depression and generalized anxiety disorder - I was a mess. I hated myself, I hated my friends, I hated my husband, I hated my life. I was embarrassed of my body, embarrassed to be pregnant, and I pretty much holed up in my house and did nothing but pity myself and eat ice cream for 9 months. Thankfully - and a lot because of your website - I realized what I was dealing with. And it made sense - my family has a history of depression. Since starting my meds, I've been a different person, and I want to stay that way.
and DUDE! LOVE THE BUMP! Thanks for that.
419. GInger said:
I applaud you for standing up and saying, "Hey, I'm doing this because my health is just as important as my baby's!"
There are so many women out there who are desperate to condemn and crucify other women for the choices they make for their pregnanices and their children, when really? It's none of their damn business.
Good on you!
420. mama snyder said:
You go, Prozac girl! All my children have been grown on Prozac, and for their safety (JOKE) and my sanity, I still take it. For me, not taking it was far riskier than taking it.
And pregnancy has always been miserable for me. Apparently, the human body does not react well to parasites, but it's worth it.
Congrats!
421. Chrissy said:
Heather, I am a primary care provider and you know? It's a proven fact that the risks are greater for pregnant women who go OFF anti-depressants, primarily Prozac, rather than staying on them during pregnancy. There is no research that shows any child having any kind of birth defects as a result of them. So, good for you. Healthy mom=healthy baby and that doesn't just mean physically but it means mentally too. I'm so happy for you. Screw the doubters.
422. Jessica said:
Thank you so much for sharing this information. It's something I think about often because if I don't take the Prozac, "the crazy" takes over and no matter how much I try to logic my way through it, it's purely chemical so it doesn't work. I'm really hopeful now that if I decide to have kids I can actually do it while staying sane. Thanks for being you and for all you do for us. I appreciate you and those that don't can kiss it.
423. Issa said:
Oh it's a beautiful baby. I am thrilled for you.
I stayed on Prozac my entire pregnancy with my son. He's got that little pig tail we're having removed next week, but besides that he's perfect.
ps. Not sure it would help and i won't lie and tell you it will work at all, but I lived off of Breyers Mint Chocolate Chip ice cream for the first six months or so of my pregnancy.
424. Anonymous said:
Heather, you are so hot.
425. linda said:
you are lovely! so happy for you.
426. Anonymous said:
This is the first time I've posted and although I don't have the time to read all the comments (I have a 5mth old babe, need I say more?), I hope you are not being bombarded by judgements re the Prozac.
You are an inspiration to me and I truly admire your courage and believe that it's needed. The stigma associated with mental illness is still strong. (I hid the fact that I was on anti-depressants during my pregnancy to virtually everyone due to the stigma.)
But to all those in the same situation as me, you, etc - follow your doctor's advice if he/she recommends staying on the meds. I didn't with my first child, but I did with my second and it made the world of difference. (And yes, baby was fine. I worried and worried, but he is perfectly happy and healthy.)
427. Michelle said:
Heather you rock so much that you should be committed just for rocking that hard!
I have so much internet love for you I'm gushing. And I so don't gush.
xo
428. Jen said:
When my mom was pregnant with me she used her bump as a ash tray holder. I could only wish my mom had been on prozac.
429. Megan said:
Unless the naysayers plan on coming to your house to raise your child with you, they need to stay the hell out of your parenting decisions! I've been taking Zoloft since my oldest daughter was 7 months old. When I found out I was pregnant for the second time, I was relieved that I was taking medication and could actually enjoy my pregnancy and birth of my child. Staying on the meds = Best. Decision. Ever. All the best to you and your new 'bean'!!!
430. Steve said:
We are (she is) staying on the Cymbalta while pregnant. We had to set up a meeting with a new psychiatry practice, since we moved since she first got prescribed it. They took her entire history and listened to our opinions -- we liked them a lot.
My opinion was that a 0.6% chance of low birth weight or whatever was better than a 100% chance of a major depressive episode during the pregnancy. And believe me, it is a 100% chance.
In the end the doctor said he agreed, and that he had had dozens of clients who stayed on the drugs with no ill effects. So we're feeling good about the decision.
See, now there was a doctor who understood that it's about risk MANAGEMENT, not risk ELIMINATION. If our OB had understood that, maybe we wouldn't have had to switch to a midwife... different story.
431. Katie said:
Congratulations and best wishes. You look lovely and all glowing and you're doing everything right for you and your baby. I was also one of those that had nightmares about having twins. And then I got pregnant with a set of identical twin girls...that I didn't find out about until almost 20 weeks pregnant. So now I tell every one of my pregnant friends to GET AN EARLY ULTRASOUND so you don't almost fall off the table in shock, and have more than 4 months to freak out.
I will say - my 17-month old twins are hilarious and wonderful and awesome and make my heart swell with joy when they hug and kiss each other, as they tend to do all day long. So it's worth that hellacious first year. Even the breastfeeding twins part.
432. Quinn said:
Good decision, Dooce, and thank you for posting this. I'm just beginning my 8th month and have been on Cymbalta the entire time. Unlike Prozac, Cymbalta is not as well studied in pregnancy--it's simply too new of a drug to have much data. But the thing is, Cymbalta is the only drug that's worked for me. Better studied medications, like Prozac, don't fix the particular chemical imbalances in my brain.
Is there a risk? Of course. But I've met with a psychiatrist and a psychiatrist nurse--I meet with them every month at this point, as a precaution--to discuss this. They've researched it thoroughly and, given my history, decided that the legitimately low risk that something MIGHT happen was far outweighed by the fact that something would almost certainly happen if I was off the meds entirely for three months. Severe depression and anxiety aren't good for fetuses, but they're a lot less likely to be studied or blamed for problems than something chemical. My OBGYN and midwife agree.
Good luck, Dooce. I hope your pregnancy is pleasant and uneventful, your baby is born perfectly healthy, and you fly through the postpartum period without incident.
433. Jeremy said:
I've been a long time reader, and have never commented. I however just wanted to say congratulations to you and your family with your current pregnancy! Best wishes!
434. Jessica said:
Congratulations! You look beautiful. I wish the best for you and your family. Good luck with your pregnancy.
Jess
435. Lori Hudson said:
I took Paxil during all three of my pregnancies and chose not to breastfeed because Dr. said baby could get more of a dose through breast milk. It was absolutely the best decision for me and my children. I must say, however, that one of my boys has some minor issues. Of course it has crossed my mind that it was caused by my using medication during pregnancy. Probably not and no way to ever know. I can't and wouldn't change it anyway. I just wanted to say that in case you ever feel that Mommy guilt. "What did I do to my child?" I wondered. "I did everything I could possibly do for my child." has to be my answer.
436. Andrea said:
I am so proud of you for putting this out there. I had my second child 6 months ago. I suffered from post-partum depression with my first son for months and months before being put on medication. Looking back I should have been hospitalized. So I thought this second time around I wouldn't take the medicine during pregnancy but start it as soon as my son was out of my body. TERRIBLE DECISION!! The depression came back with a vengence. I didn't sleep for literally 2 weeks. I feel so my better now but am on 2 medications and will be for a long time. Post-partum depression is very, very serious. You made the right decision for you and your family. Congratulations. You look beautiful!!
437. Alison said:
Heather, I love you. I love your bump. And I love Prozac (but DEFINITELY not in that order).
Alison
438. HDC said:
I bet you haven't gotten this one as a suggestion for dealing with your morning sickness. Behold! The Bacon Martini!
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/dailydish/2008/12/bacon.html
439. Dorothea said:
Congratulations on the bun and the bump.I met you at the L.A. Meet and Greet and had a weird feeling you were pregnant.This happens to me all the time and I have predicted many a friend's pregnancy, as well as mine. As far as #188, not only is he/she creepy but they are latching on to you instead of getting a life and learning how to write complete sentences. Keep on trucking. You are doing a great service to many moms and dads.
440. Amanda said:
I stayed on my anti-depressant during my pregnancy, and my daughter is perfect. Except that she keeps trying to bite off her father's and my ears.
Staying on my meds kept me from completely losing it when the post pardom kicked in. The risk to Maggie was minimal. The risk to me if I got off my meds was substantial, possibly life threatening.
It's a decision everyone has to make for themselves.
P.S. You are gorgeous, you hussy.
441. kat said:
you look beautiful. you got that glow going on.
and i think it's awesome you're sharing your thoughts on prozac and pregnancy and your mindframe. i consider a true service to those women who are in similar situations.
so any dickwad out there....well you can go to h.e.l.l....
442. duck said:
Seriously. Send those dick wads north and I will use my snow shovel to take out their knee caps or at least seriously bruise their shins. You keep on doing whats best for you and your whole family. You are such an inspiration. Thanks for making me think it is doable.
443. Cherise said:
My OB prescribed zoloft to me while I was pregnant with my first baby because I was so anxious and depressed before I even had the baby. With my second, I never went off my meds and myself, my husband, and our kids are better for it. (Coming from a woman who has also thrown heavy things at her husband's head) Each family has to choose what is best for them.
Sending you best wishes and support.
444. Wendy said:
You go girl! You're an inspiration and a role model for following our own instincts.
243651. Talon said:
"We"?
Who exactly are you referring to when you say "we"?
Are you using the royal "we" or do "we" have a lemming in "our" pocket?
445. Kristin said:
Hooray and Yes to everything you just said in here. And you're right, I do think that "this is not ... " " ... imagination."
446. Talon said:
Erm...my "we" comment was meant to reply to "love to hate dooce" or whatever that tampon's name was, not you Heather.
447. Elizabeth M. said:
I just learned about Unisom/B6 for nausea and am so hopeful. Just thought I would pass it on... B6 on it's own did nothing for me last time.
From Dr. Spock:
A prescription medication called Bendectin® was available in the 1970s-1980's and was shown to be safe in pregnancy, but the company stopped marketing it in the US due to the costs of liability coverage. Bendectin® contained 10 milligrams of vitamin B6 and 10 milligrams of Doxylamine. Two tablets were given at bedtime and a total of up to 4 tablets could be used in a 24-hour period.
Interestingly, Unisom™, which contains a higher dose (25 mg.) of the same medication, Doxylamine, is currently marketed as an over-the-counter sleeping pill. Ask your practitioner if creating a vitamin B6/Doxylamine combination with over-the-counter medications would be safe for you.
448. Zenmomma said:
That is one adorable little bump. Congratulations! Don't listen to the haters. You're doing what needs to be done to keep yourself and your your baby safe and healthy. Four my own sanity, Prozac has been a godsend.
449. emmysuh said:
BUMP WATCH reminds me of PANDA WATCH from Anchorman. You look lovely. I love reading your posts anytime, but am really enjoying these pregnancy posts.
I always hate how much shit people give you over your beliefs/decisions, like they're not yours to make. I'm glad you're sticking to your guns and telling those people (oh so politely-ish) to fuck off and let you live your life. :)
450. Danielle said:
Hi Heather. I don't normally leave comments on your blog but I do enjoy reading it. I know that you mentioned that you didn't want any advice on how to help with the morning sickness but I have to mention Zofran (or however you spell it). I was the queen of morning sickness with my kids. Spent half of my of my second pregnancy in the hospital. Anyway, if your interested ask your OB/GYN about it at your next visit. I took it with both my pregnancies and it won't harm your baby. As a matter of fact I have 2 healthy smartie pants. It makes it so you can function and have some resemblance of a normal life. Congratulations on the new baby!! Hope you feel better soon.
451. Sparsely Kate said:
Hey the first thing I have to say: you are so pretty!
the second: I'm really proud of you for bringing this issue up, it's sensitive and delicate and really raw. Good for you and I wish you well.
243652. Nick said:
Psst -- I know you're doing your best to be mean but your envy is showing.
452. Jan said:
You look lovely! I hope you feel better soon - Congratulations to you and your family!
453. Eper said:
My tummy is bigger than yours and I'm only 9 weeks pregnant! But then again, it was already big to begin with.
Don't mind the haters. It's your body, your decision. And besides, the doctors say it's perfectly fine.
454. Jessy said:
Congratulations!!
I've been reading your blog for about a year and a half now and have never commented. I really just had to congratulate you.
Keep writing! I always appreciate your humor.
1296. frifri said:
Here here! Thank you for being brave enough to share this information.
455. Anonymous said:
I just have to say, you are brave and amazing.
456. jean said:
Hi Heather, thanks for the details here. I've been on Prozac since I was 14 and there have been times when I've thought I simply should never have biological kids because it would make me so ill to go off the medication and risk PPD - but reading this makes me feel so hopeful that one day I might be able to produce a lovely baby with an outsized head and beetly eyebrows just like mine.
457. Amy said:
Dude, took Prozac the whole time and had the most healthy TWINS in the world then got postpardom and took a bunch of other stuff. you can take ambien when you are preggers too just in case you want to get more shit from people. thanx for being so brave dude.
458. Eliza said:
I am so glad you wrote this entry. Good on you for doing what's right for YOU and looking after yourself. And congratulations!
33697. sandy said:
no,Dewi. It's not okay for any wine or cocktail during pregnany. All credible studies reveal that it's never been proven that any amount is okay or not okay, so the amount to be consumed while preggo is NONE.
I am a Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Social Worker and have seen children in TERRIBLE shape because their mom had "1 glass of wine!" because false information was given to her.
DO.NOT.DO.IT.
459. wheezer345 said:
Yay! You tell em'. Good thoughts and wishes coming your way! :)
460. Blaine M said:
I'm one of many, many readers who believe you are doing the right thing for you and your baby.
Not just because it is recommended by doctors, but because I have seen first hand twice what happens when medications aer stopped during pregnancy, although both of these were NOT doctor's orders, just women afraid of what it might do.
Both women left their significant others (one of the two was married, the other was Morman, and unmarried, lol), basically went beserk and created nothing but headaches for everyone around them.
It was a few months afterwards, when they each mentioned it to their respective doctors that they were having a hard time because they stopped their medication, that the doctors told them to take them, again, for God's sake. (or whatever you believe in)
Within two weeks of taking their medication again, they had both made up with their baby's fathers, and everyone sighed a big sigh of relief.
Their babies were born healthy and happy, and are wondreful little guys now. (Incidentally both boys.)
And re: the bump, it gets bigger the second time because your uterus 'remembers' the previous pregnancy. (Read: has been stretched out and is looser...)
:) Hope you find something to make you feel better soon. Even if it's something 'terrible' like Doritos or Chocolate Fudge Sundaes for every meal.
461. Viktor said:
Hey! They are lying to you, that isn't a baby, that is the BAT-SIGNAL.
You are going to have batmans.
462. sevi said:
I have heard that in second pregnancies the bumps are bigger and more obvious with all women. I mean it's a common thing...
And dooce, you are so brave ...
463. maarmie said:
You said it! Screw those dickwads!
464. christie said:
effing love the new masthead.
465. David said:
I honestly don't know how you cope with the dickwad's ... good luck to you and I hope it all continues to go well.
466. Kathryn said:
Thank you. I'm not battling with the decision, but it is a topic that is oh so dear to my heart. I wish it didn't take so much bravery to talk about mental health, and I'm glad some people can and do. Have you ever noticed that nay-sayers sound like horses?
I'm so embarrassed by that joke, but I can't help myself.
467. Anonymous said:
Thanks, Dooce. For years I've struggled with depression and anxiety and have taken meds. While I've tried to "ween" myself off of them multiple times I've learned it's just better if I stay with them. I'm only 19, but I hope to have children some day, and your blog is giving me courage to face the world when I know I'll be a wreck if I'm not on my meds, pregnancy or not. I'm glad to see that others struggle with this. I know I'll have to face anti-medicine people (as I already have) when I'm pregnant, but thanks for giving the courage to do what's right for my future family.
468. Sue said:
Hi Heather,
I read your blog daily (well when you post daily that is) and you are so incrediably refreshing, I dont often read the comment section, just read the post and move along...
Today I did, I wanted to see what you were talking about when it came to negative comments.
I thought surely with all the positive comments out there she can brush the negative ones aside..but really I'd challenge even the most self assured person brush some of those comments off..
Anyhow, you look really amazing, you have such a unique stunning look, I am with the overwelming majority, you are gorgeous even if you dont feel it right now...
I admire you for looking at the big picture when it comes your health and your baby's, I had to take meds for a very short time for PND and while beforehand I thought they were an overused thing in our society, I now realise exactly what true anxiety and depression are like, I wasn't able to pull myself out of that hole, and medication helped me function again..thankfully I was in a position where I was able to get off them, but others aren't in that situation.
I will be reading your blog daily, reading and laughing, I love the posts about your daughter the most, what an amazing gift she will have, your story telling is a true gift..keep that food down and chin up Mama you deserve the best!
469. ElegantGoose said:
Hello Dooce and Internets,
Yeah, I'm 23 weeks along and not only did my OBGYN tell me to stay on my Celexa, he wrote me a new prescription for it when my dumbass therapist didn't have any appointments available. I mentioned wondering if I should taper off toward the end of pregnancy and he was all "No. Stay on it." When I asked about breastfeeding he said it wouldn't be a problem.
So now I'm totally enjoying being pregnant and aside from a scary Quad 4 screen which turned me into a tearful quivering mess, I haven't been anxious at all! (Um, until I realize there will be a real live person here in like, 17 weeks!)
So ignore the douchewads who think they know better than your actual, real life doctors who know a thing or two about medicine and who know YOU!
470. Lucy said:
Hi Dooce,
I've just finished reading yours and Jon's blogs from the start (I have a pretty undemanding job!) I started in May and I've just got to the present day. I've absolutely loved it, cried at my desk, giggled like an idiot and I just love you! Good luck with everything xx
p.s. I'm from Manchester, England-love all the references you and Jon make to it. Come back one day-we have a Mongolian barbeque now!
471. Amelia Sprout said:
I was on Zoloft because it apparently had been studied the most as far as long term effects on kids. Personally, taking all risk factors into effect, you have to do what is best for everyone, including mom. Thanks for sharing this because I think it doesn't get talked about enough. Oh yeah, and Congrats!
472. Erin said:
I am one of those people that Does Not Want To Have Children. Anyway, I was deeply saddened when my new Gyn told me that I couldn't use my Wellbutrin prescription as an excuse to not have children (she didn't actually put it this way).
473. Sha said:
So.....i'm sure lots of folks are asking this...but, do you plan on finding out the gender? or are you waiting for it to be a surprise?
474. Helen said:
I think there must be more nonsense written about Prozac than about any other drug, except maybe hormone replacement therapy. It's a medical issue, not a moral one.
Good for you, not just for believing that your doctors might know more about this than idiots from the internet, but also for writing about it here and supporting people in the same situation.
Congrats about the baby too; that's wonderful news.
243653. maddie said:
To #188:
Please don't write "we" in your comment to cover up how you feel. Sorry your life sucks, bud! Heather has gotten me through some hard times just by talking about her own battle with depression and how she coped with it. I know, we are all expected to walk around with smiles on our faces and act like nothing is wrong right? I'm glad I don't live in your paperdoll world.
475. charlotte said:
I wish I had your chutzpah. Despite knowing that Prozac is pretty much harmless during pregnancy, I still became scared by all the horror stories posted on the internet and went off it "just incase." Gestational diabetes and the need to strictly control my diet then sent me pretty much spiralling into a black hole of anxiety, sleeplessness, and perpetual guilt. Which is where I'm now, BTW, for about 10 more days (or longer, depending when baby chooses to come).
The next time, if there is one, I'll order my kid straight from the cabbage patch.
Oh, and that ultrasound you posted? Wow! Amazingly clear and ueber-cute! Just like your "bump."
476. Emma said:
Yay I was hoping there'd be "bump watch" :-)
Thankyou so much for being honest about your decisions even thought you know you'll cop some flack for it (to say the least).
I'm so happy that you are open about what is happing with your illness, I can only hope that that will help get rid of the stigma that mental illness still has for whatever reason.
The strange thing is that if you had some other sort of illness like diabetes, heart disease, asthma or cancer people would have no problem with you continuing to take medication. It annoys and frustrates me that people don't understand that mental illness is life threatening too and can need to be medicated and managed in much the same way as any other illness.
Thankyou Heather for all that you do. I'm on the other side of the world to you (pretty much, I'm in Australia) but you still manage to strike a cord with me.
And by the way, you look gorgeous in the bump watch pic. No one would ever know you had morning sickness!
477. Candy said:
The best mother in the world still got blamed for everything that ever went wrong in her children's lives. So if they are going to talk about me in therapy anyway, I might as well give them something good to say and get their money's worth.
That's my theory and I'm sticking to it.
You stick to yours, too. It seems to be working out just fine.
478. Lola said:
For #167: Care to tone down your self-righteousness a bit? I'm choking on it over here.
First of all, it's obvious you're British. Second, you're quite wrong. Simply because YOU did not receive medication when you had a nervous breakdown does not mean it is not offered to others, or that it is not frequently prescribed. It's quite silly to generalize from one's isolated personal experience to the entire world (save the U.S., of course) in general. Third, Canada has a national health service, and antidepressants are in frequent use in Canada. In fact, several posters here have commented about a service for mothers to be that has nurses advising people to remain on their antidepressants.
As for this, "I am glad that I was forced to rehabilitate without developing a substance dependence." Wow. Seriously? Seriously? Substance dependence. Hmm. Glad to know that your experience gave you empathy for others who have gone through severe depression. We wouldn't want to be a judgmental ass about things, and accuse people of being drug addicts, now would we?
But this, this is the absolute best, "I just think it's worth bearing in mind that this is not the way that the whole world is - most people out there are not medically treated in this way and it might be a little dangerous to presume it's totally normal and high-fiveable."
Not true. I just think it's worth bearing in mind that your individual case, and possibly the cases of the people surrounding you, is not the way that the whole world is. Most countries use antidepressants in large amounts, and just because Britain may not, it might be a little dangerous to presume that Britain's experience is one, normal, and two, better than all the rest. How's that?
Really. Get over yourself.
479. Melissa said:
If the prozac helps you keep sane throughout your pregnancy, you are giving your child a better life. A great life with a sane, happy mother (taking prozac) is better than a life with an irritable, insane and unstable mother who won't get help(deep)! Counselling, great friends, husbands, money and material things are sometimes not enough to keep a woman sane. Everyone needs "something", whatever it may be to get them through life!
480. Jessica said:
I read almost all your blog entries (by going thrg archives) and I think you & Jon worked hard to get to today, and totally deserve another kid
those people who comments negatively, well, i bet they aren't perfect, so how about we all start dissing every decision they make?
you are my hero (and I'm 26)
have a healthy baby and stay healthy yourself
481. bisous said:
Hi - congrats! I'm 18 weeks along myself into pregnancy #2. Gak. I'm also a psychiatrist, and I know it's none of my damn business, but I'm glad you decided to stay on the prozac. I have also treated a lot of women through pregnancy, and white-knuckling it right to delivery is not a good way to go. There is a wonderful, informative website run by Massachusetts General Hospital called womensmentalhealth.org and has all sorts of good information for people. Cheers and peace and health and good wishes!
Bisous
482. Michelle said:
Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Another mom waving here, with horrible PPD after #1, years of meds and therapy, a decision (that I'm very proud of!) to stay on meds during pregnancy #2 (and to increase them slightly around week 23 when my brain got wonky). Baby #2 is happy and healthy, and you know what, SO AM I!!!! No PPD the second time. It was amazing. Even when I was stressed and overwhelmed it was such a relief to be "regular crazy" and not "crazy crazy."
I'm also a mental health professional (psychiatric social worker) and while I'm not a prescriber and can't give out medical advice at work, I've spent countless hours printing out published articles about the importance of treating depression in pregnant women. I've given these articles to the prescribers I work with, and it has made a difference in the way we treat pregnant women at our clinic.
Good luck getting through the queasies and pukies.
Michelle
483. katie said:
Heather- where is all the "acne" and "fever blisters" you said you had in the post before this one??? Your skin looks beautiful, beeyotch! :) seriously, you look great!! own it. work it. :)
244944. "Anonymous" G said:
Relax, Anonymous. Lydia can say what she likes, even if you disagree with it. That's called freedom of speech. The comment wasn't derogatory towards Heather or her preganancy in any way. It merely expressed a concern.
484. katie said:
Oh, and about the nausea. Could they prescribe you some Phenagrin (sp)?? I have heard of pregnant women taking this for morning sickness and it works wonders for it. makes you sleepy, but it might be worth a try.
and also i have known several women who were on prozac while pregnant and all children were born healthy and happy. so don't worry at all about that. it is YOUR decision and anyone who doesn't agree can kiss your ass.:)
485. Katie said:
You're listening to doctors instead of random anonymous people on the internet for your medical advice? Are you sure this is wise?
Rock on, Heather--I'm so happy for you and the family. I can't wait to find out what you have (yes, boy or girl, swell--but I'm talking about what animal--Leta was a little frog baby, so I'm assuming this one will be some cute animal too...)
619488. "Anonymous" G said:
For #478: Seriously? You read a self-righteous tone in comment #167? You didn't read the bit where she starts off "I really really hate to add a different tone"?
Maybe you should get over yourself. It's not normal to have to take drugs during pregnancy. Yes, it helps people like Heather and the people who have commented here, who suffer with various issues. But you cannot say it's normal. It may be okay, but it's not normal, no matter which country you live in.
But who cares!? There are women and children in Africa and in developing countries around the world who can't afford the wonderful health care we have. Women and children who would love to even have water to drink which doesn't make them sick. Maybe we should be giving them a little more thought instead of bitching in the comments section of a blog and perhaps making a donation to a charity which provides some of their basic needs.
619489. "Anonymous" G said:
For #478: Seriously? You read a self-righteous tone in comment #167? You didn't read the bit where she starts off "I really really hate to add a different tone"?
Maybe you should get over yourself. It's not normal to have to take drugs during pregnancy. Yes, it helps people like Heather and the people who have commented here, who suffer with various issues. But you cannot say it's normal. It may be okay, but it's not normal, no matter which country you live in.
But who cares!? There are women and children in Africa and in developing countries around the world who can't afford the wonderful health care we have. Women and children who would love to even have water to drink which doesn't make them sick. Maybe we should be giving them a little more thought instead of bitching in the comments section of a blog and perhaps making a donation to a charity which provides some of their basic needs.
486. amy r said:
hi heather.
i've been thinking about having another child, and my husband is on the same cocktail that you are (thank god for cocktails). i KNOW that the point is that YOU are on them, not your husband, but MY point is that I'm glad to see that you are considering another child. I have been waffling about it (is it fair to have another child considering my husband's condition and all that), but I have to keep telling myself (and you do too) that you/he are/is a beautiful, creative, intelligent person. The illness is not you, just one facet of you.
All that to say, huzzah!
487. Ankle Rolls said:
Oh, hell, I suppose I'm one of those supposed bastards grinding you down. But I don't mean to be. I just honestly want to know if you enjoy this all? If it sucks so much, why have you chosen to perpetuate it all? Is it lucrative?
I know you are here for your own purposes, and you have never claimed to represent any other. But do you realize how amazingly lucky you are? In your jaded experience?
I welcome your comments about how appreciative you are about life. Or your explanations about why you continue when you are not.
You are so lucky, bump-belly, anti-depressants or not. Do you not realize that? You're so silly not to, and I welcome the opportunity to explain why. And it has NOTHING TO DO WITH JESUS, lol.
You say you read all responses. www.anklerolls.blogspot.com brings it. Do you?
488. Lola said:
For #488 &489: Yes, I read a self-righteous tone there. Because even if you say, "I really hate to add a slightly different note to the barrage of positivity . . .", when you go on to describe the prescribed use of antidepressants as "substance dependence," and say (untruthfully) that it is not normal in the rest of the world to take antidepressants, you are being a self-righteous prig. It's akin to saying, "Oh, that woman is so horrible, the lowest of the low, bless her heart!" The bless her heart part does not take away the fact that you just completely insulted someone.
#167 was not addressing whether it is normal to take antidepressants DURING PREGNANCY, she was addressing whether it is normal to take them AT ALL. Her claim is that it is not normal, that most of the world does not take them. She's wrong. Dead wrong. Perhaps you should read more closely. I was not addressing taking antidepressants during pregnancy, I was countering #167's assertion that it is not normal to take antidepressants at all. However, judging by the amount of women just in the comments of this thread who are taking meds during pregnancy, I would counter that it is likely much more common than you think. Also, I would like to ask you, what exactly is NORMAL?
I work for a nongovernmental organization that provides healthcare services to women in developing countries. So, while I appreciate your effort to draw attention to our cause, I am perplexed as to why you think that commenting on a blog and caring about people in Africa and developing countries are mutually exclusive things. As someone who actively does both, I can assure you that is not true. Nice straw man, though.
Heather, as someone who is first trimester, and decided to continue taking her meds, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. I'm sorry you have to deal with the jerks that feel they need to judge your every move here, but I appreciate you putting yourself out there. Your post, and the many, many responses from women who are also taking their meds during pregnancy is really reassuring. I'm pretty sure I made the right choice, but it is so nice to know I'm not alone in this.
489. Vicky said:
Wonderful bump! You definitely are showing already...
The twins thing made me smile too. When I was pregnant and went for my scan (it's at 12 weeks here in the UK) I was relieved to see just one baby. But also a little disappointed - and my partner agreed that he felt the same. I know, we're weird and crazy. Now that I actually have a baby to look after, the thought of having two of him to tend makes me want to set myself alight and run from the house screaming. I have no idea how people manage twins, but I salute them.
Before I was pregnant and then a mother, I used to be a little snotty about people who took AD's while pregnant or breastfeeding. Now I totally understand. It's so much better for your child to have a happy, calm(ish) mother than one who is climbing the walls. People shouldn't underestimate that simple fact.
Oh, and the sour sweets? They were the only thing that helped me. Sea bands? Fuck em. Preggy Pops do groovy round boxes of intensely sour boiled sweets that saved my life in the first three months. Good on car journeys. Okay, I know my advice is not helping and you're still probably hurling at this moment - I'll shut up now.
490. Elaine said:
You're effin' right you're perfectly capable of making decisions about you and your baby! Congrats on the pregnancy! And thanks. Pregnant women need to hear your message - and not just the ones on Prozac.
491. Mandy said:
I would say the risk of NOT taking meds for depression would be worse than the small risk of actually taking the meds during pregnancy.
You look great. With baby #3 I started show upon insemination. Seriously.
492. Lori said:
It sounds like you are in such a great place right now (albeit a kind of pukey one). Thank you for sharing this experience with us. People are ridiculous if they think you'd do anything that would endanger your baby, because wouldn't it be worse for you all to go through all that again instead of just staying on your meds? Seriously people.
Take care of yourself.
493. e said:
You obviously already know this, but since I used to counsel pregnant women on the potential risks of exposures, I just wanted to say that we always emphasized the importance of continuing to treat depression and that the rather extensive research on Prozac is very very reassuring in that it does not appear to pose a risk. :)
Also, your bump is beautiful. I think its a boy! (PS. Will you find out?)
494. Anonymous said:
I think you're doing a great job!
495. Cat said:
You're beautiful. And so, so lucky.
496. Tinare said:
I'm not pregnant and have a bigger bump than that! ;) Congrats. And good for you for your attitude towards the jerks. Rock on -- the new baby is lucky to be part of your family!
497. the wza said:
Heather- I am so happy for you and proud of you for sticking to your guns on the Prozac issue because a cuckoo mommy is a bad mommy.
But what I do struggle with is this ongoing trend to refer to a pregnant belly as a 'bump'. You might as well call it a welt. It makes me think you hit your gut on the coffee table, or got bit by a giant mosquito. After reading a few of your comments I realize I'm probably a minority on the issue but I challenge you and your readers (self included) to come up with something that makes a baby belly sound less like an boil or an ingrown hair and more like an Aidan or a Sadie.
Also, I hear they make a lot of daily moisturizers with a low SPF of say, 15, these days. If you could pass that on to the former you I'd appreciate it.
Good luck to you and your growing family.
Larissa
498. my name doesn't matter said:
Must be fuckin' nice....
499. Mandy- Anonymous is for sissies said:
Well said as always.
You look amazing. Can't wait to see how you progress.
And for all of the haters out there, there are more of us that love your direct honesty and are very excited for you and Jon and Leta!
I will pray for your family.
Congrats again!
500. Elizabeth said:
Thank you, dooce. I know I'm probably not the only one with that question but I feel like you answered my email directly. Thanks again.
501. Therese said:
I was actually worried that you had decided not to remain on some kind of medication.
OK wait. That came out sounding a little off. Allow me to elaborate a bit.
With your history with depression, and with postpartum depression, I was concerned for you that you couldn't (or would choose not to) remain on some form of medication during the pregnancy to help you cope.
I'm very glad you made a decision, based on medical people's advice (rather than judgmental douches) that gives you that leg-up. And I think it's very brave of you to open yourself up to the backlash you'll surely get for just doing what is right for you.
502. Anonymous said:
Has Tom Cruise called you, yet?
You go, girl.
503. Paula said:
First of all: FUCK YOU HATERS.
Sorry 'bout that. Anyway, Heather I applaud you for your decision and your conviction to do what's right for you. I'm struggling with this decision myself and have put off getting pregnant for fear of having to go off my medication even though I've been told it's okay. Repeatedly. This post just may be the kick in the ass I needed. Thank you.
504. Sarah said:
Yay! This is wonderful and your bump is super cute. Prozac is perfectly safe and one of the safest :-). You are right those people who are bashing you have their own issues to deal with...and if you need a good source for other women who are concerned w/their own medication www.kellymom.com is a great website for information for pregnancy/breastfeeding. Here is the specific page w/the information on antidepressants and pregnancy/breastfeeding.
http://www.kellymom.com/health/meds/antidepressants-hale10-02.html#Prozac
Congrats on 12 weeks!
<3 Sarah
505. Anonymous said:
You said dickwad. Twice. Awesome.
506. deb said:
My prediction is: you are having a boy!
507. charing said:
This is not a medical fact but rather a coincidence, I was on prozac with my 3rd of 4 kids and everyone called him happy boy he had a great & calm personality and still does at 12.
508. Petunia said:
Congratulations and good thoughts for a safe, comfortable pregnancy. You're consulting the right people and making the choices that need to be made.
509. sideshowrob said:
So happy for you, and so proud that you are on top of it this time. You guys are excellent parents fyi, and I'm sure that Leta will be an excellent big sis!
xoxoxoxo
510. KeelyJane said:
Eff those A-holes. If they know what's best for your baby, they should birth it for you.
511. Nicki said:
Great post, and pics! I suffer from general anxiety disorder and was on Paxil. When we decided we were ready for #2, I talked to my doc and he said Paxil is a no-no and talk with my OB about what she feels works best. I did. Her advice? Yoga and therapy. Hmmm, yeah, been doing yoga for years and still a nutbag. Went to therapy and she recommended meds again. So needless to say I switched OBs and am now on Prozac at HER recommendation. She went over all of the pros about it and people who think it's unsafe need to just do their research. And stop hammering on people on meds during pregnancy. You aren't living in our heads every day, so lay off! Besides, not being on the meds could be much more harmful to the baby. So amen, Heather! I'm so glad you always put it all out there for everyone :)
512. nate said:
LOL, not to worry, Heather. You probably scared off the majority of the "immediately-freaked-out-I-HAVE-to-reply-indignantly" conservatives with the political issues from a few weeks ago so no worries there.
This is your blog, this is a diary of your experiences, adventures and opinions and stuff anyone that disagrees. They are more than able to go get their own shouting board.
At the end of the day you are in safe hands, this is the USA and dosctors know what they're doing- those that don't live in constant fear of being sued so I say embrace your advice, appreciate the fact that you can do this while still chemically balanced and enjoy your pregnancy. Good for you!!
513. ckirby said:
Thank you for putting this out there knowing the hateful mail you will receive. Women need to hear its okay to take anti-depressants while pregnant. A (somewhat) sane mommy is a better mommy.
Why do people think it's funny to wish twins on a pregnant woman? I was pregnant with twins, there is nothing funny about it.
514. Holly said:
I started reading when I saw a post about how outraged a mother was about people being outraged you stopped breastfeeding to go back on meds. I loved you then, I love you now and I know you're making the best mother fucking decision for you and yours.
515. Jinx said:
Your bump is beautiful!
Trust your doctor, trust yourself, disregard the negative comments, and soak in the love many of us have for you.
Good Luck!
516. Keryn said:
I took antidepressants during my second pregnancy, and she turned out perfectly! My doctor told me something like the risks were not as bad as being a total bitch to my husband and first child for nine months. :o) Oh, and my non-pregnant bump is also bigger than yours! Damn it!
517. Autumn said:
That is most certainly a bump!
I had a bump bigger than that at 12 weeks. So you're freaking me out just a tad. When I have my second I will look 5 months pregnant at two weeks into my pregnancy! NOOOOOOOOOOO!
I am a short little woman though and my son had no where to go but out least he destroy my heart with his restless baby feet.
I hope your morning sickness abates soon. I had it bad and nothing helped. Puke happened all times of day all over the place- including once in the kitchen sink, once all over my face while I was laying down, and once behind the laundry mat.
518. Jenn said:
You are so brave and so right to stay on your medication. Don't let the dickwads get to you.
243654. sideshowrob said:
Is this a joke? I sincerely hope so, because I do enjoy living in my little bubble where ignorance rarely makes an appearance. #188's comments seem so stereotypically ignorant, immature and spiteful that it truly does seem like a prank. Regardless of that comment, it seems that the positive comments far outweigh the negative - so Heather I think it is obvious that you are well loved!
xoxoxo
519. Barb said:
From someone who has had a miscarriage and gone on to have a beautiful child and has suffered from depression for 21 years, I couldn't be happier for you and your husband.
Wish you had been "in my life" back then. Thanks for opening up your life to the internet not only to make us laugh, but for the comfort that you bring at times to struggling people like I was.
I do pray for all to go well for you and the little bambino. I think you're a great mom!
Barb
520. Sarah J. said:
Yay for you!
I think it's great that you're continuing your medication. If it doesn't hurt the baby, why put yourself and the rest of your family through hell?
Good luck and congrats on the bump!
521. Cathy said:
Dude, do you know what our parents' mothers did when they were pregnant? They smoked, drank and ate anything and everything they could get their hands on. Probably smoked some pot, too. We're alive to talk about it, so I think you'll be okay taking a prescribed, controlled substance!
522. jenny said:
Heather, you look gorgeous.
523. pascale said:
Congratulations Heather, great news, great neat little bump.
Keep doing what you need to do to make yourself feel good. Contrary to what a lot of people think I believe that when you are a mother you need to put yourself first on a regular basis, because if you fall apart your kids suffer.
Best of luck with the nausea, hope it goes away soon.
524. Lori said:
BTW, do all the mean people usually email? Because (thank goodness) all the comments I read seem pretty encouraging. I guess the haters would be afraid of getting beat up by the other commenters. As they should be, dammit!
525. Jane said:
My sister took Prozac while she was pregnant, and all her doctor said was, "Look at it this way: this child is yours, so he probably needs Prozac."
526. cris said:
i don't even know if you actually make it through all your comments, but thank you for addressing the medication issue. i've been worried about being back on meds since i miscarried last february. but i really think that being without them is not an option for me. thank you for opening up your innermost self to complete strangers. i'm delighted for you and the family with your little one on the way! be well.
527. Kari said:
Long time reader. never posted.
First off, congrats to you, Jon and Leta!
I also continued taking Prozac while pregnant. And guess what, my kid is completely fine!!!
You need to do what's right for you.
528. Katie Kat said:
I had been on Prozac for almost 10 years before I got pregnant and I stayed on it my whole pregnancy. Happy to report I had a perfectly healthy little monkey right on schedule (okay, she's human, not a monkey - except when you factor in evolution, I guess she technically IS in the monkey family). ANYWAY, I'm glad you are addressing this issue so that other women can get some hands-on information about it. Also, I'd talk to your doc about maybe upping your dose about a month before your due date to help buffer against PPD. I didn't do that, but wish I had!
So happy for you - sending BIG good karma thoughts for all of you!
529. Beano said:
As a student Nurse-Midwife (at an Ivy League school) we're taught to to help everyone stick with their mental health meds through pregnancy.
Evidence-based research has proven over and over again "Healthy Mama = Healthy Baby".
You're doing the right thing, and I love that people have got your back. Go Dooce!
530. Anonymous said:
however, you might want to lay off the maker's for a little while :)
531. Meg said:
People really write you and give you crap about making such important and personal decisions? Whoa.
All I have to say is isn't it weird that when it's the sonogram of your own kid and you show people you can explain the whole thing and show the abnormally large head and know it's a beautful little someone but when it's someone else's you look at it and say, I don't see it? Hope the all day sickness is breaking once in awhile! I must admit, memories of that with my second keep me dedicated to all forms of brith control these days- can we again applaud the hand job?
9072. lomagirl said:
Tracy- that's hilarious!
532. Michelle said:
I think it is well known that a lot of the anti-Ds are perfectly fine to take during pregnancy. In fact, going off could do more harm than good. The random people who like to say otherwise are completely ignorant.
YOu and your little bun in the oven are beautiful! Congratulations to you. (and I didn't enjoy pregnancy either like some women, but the babies are indeed worth all the puking and discomfort)
533. Tisra said:
There are women I've met who had to be on chemo while pregnant, so I truly believe that these precious babies can be rather resilient. Congratulations!
534. Anonymous said:
Heather....I was taking Prozac several years ago to treat out-of-control PMS (PMDD was the 'official' diagnosis). I stayed on it while preggers w/ my first baby. And, other than a horrible 8 weeks of colic and fussiness that started when she was 2 weeks old, the baby was totally fine. And she's still fine now...5 years later.
535. Anonymous said:
Congratulations you are right not to listen to those who like to hear themselves talk even when they are wrong!! As a parent of a child with special needs we get that all the time. No one knows a situation like you and your Dr. I love your smooches to those people :) Love your blog.
536. Sara said:
I had to comment on your latest Twitter. I laughed so very hard. What is it with ketchup and morning sickness? It's a cure all!
537. Sue O'Lear said:
You tell 'em. And thanks for having the balls to be an advocate.
538. Rebecca said:
Oh Heather - you so rock! When my husband and I are ready to have a baby, I'm already planning on reading back through your posts... you are just great! :)
Much love from Texas!
539. Myra/Ottawa said:
Stay on the Prozac. Stay you. Love the sonogram shot... so rare to actually be able to see something recognizable.
540. Carly said:
Thanks for sharing Heather, I would like to add that when I was pregnant 1 1/2 years ago I had the same questions. Before I got pregnant I went off of an anti-depressant because there were links to heart defects in babies. When I did get pregnant and talked to my doctor about the anti-depressant I was on and the safety to the baby. He (in his usual humorous way) told me that it was way better for the baby to get some trace amounts of the drug than for me to go off of the drug and then do harm to myself. So I guess that answered the question for me.
541. Jody said:
Good for you! I am glad that you are happy with your decision. I also think that you look beautiful, and that your baby bump is adorable :)
542. Vikki said:
Congrats to you and your family! There are so many people to consider in making these decisions...you, Leta, Jon and the new baby. The crazies out there who want to judge you just don't figure into the equation. Good luck with the rest of your pregnancy!
543. Anonymous said:
My first time commenting. THANK YOU. I stayed on Prozac until my 3rd trimester, and have had many days where I really, really regretted going off it. I'm due a week from today, and have already lined up a script for Zoloft, to be taken as soon as I deliver. Immediately. Baby out, Zoloft in. (I'd rather be going back on Prozac, as it's all I've ever taken and has worked wonderfully, but I made the mistake of doing "real" reserach--like medical journal articles--and am too nervous about the amount that shows up in breastmilk. Though if breastfeeding doesn't work, Prozac, my fine friend, here I come). Thanks for your honesty, and for taking many for the team.
And of course, congratulations! Your blog, which I found via Flotsam, has become one of my favorites.
544. bugink said:
I was taking Prozac in 2001 when I found out I was pregnant. I was told to IMMEDIATELY stop taking it. So I did and I had a pretty miserable pregnancy and a horrific bout with postpartum depression after my daughters birth.
I found out a few years later that it would have been perfectly fine to stay on the medication throughout the pregnancy.
545. Caitlin said:
I am awed that you can put up with all of those dicks. I cry at the drop of a hat now, if someone even thinks a mean thought in my direction...I can't imagine what it will be like when I get pregnant! Stay strong, and let it all roll off of your back. A sane mother is ALWAYS better.
Here's to a safe, HAPPY pregnancy, and to an easy transition when Baby Armstrong comes home!
546. Jennifer said:
Heather,
I continue to be inspired by your bravery! If there were more people in the world like you who are willing to talk openly about the realities of truth, even when it is ugly or unpleasant or (gasp) unconventional, people would be so much freer, and I would bet, happier too. Thank you for your candidness and as always, your honesty.
Congratulations on your pregnancy! Leta and the baby are lucky to have such an admirable mother who isn't afraid to blaze a new path!
547. Anonymous said:
I like you even more than I did before I read this. Leta is a lucky girl.
548. Karlotta said:
I saw that sonogram picture and my ovaries exploded all over my boyfriend.
549. BlackEyedP said:
I think your supporters far outweigh your detractors. Congratulations and do whatever you need to do for your family. It's no one elses business but your own (singing Miss Holiday)
Take Care...look forward to more posts from you.
P
550. Sara Houston said:
Bravo, Heather. These kind of stories are my favorite. Thank you for being brave and putting yourself out there so even just one woman will have the confidence to protect herself as well as her unborn baby.
551. Kristi said:
I have a 7 mo old and didn't miss being pregnant until reading this update. Even though I was also horribly sick for 2 full months, there is something to be said about having a new life growing inside you. Beyond cool.
Hope you start feeling better soon! I believe I felt better around week 15. Although the week before that, I randomly barfed up an entire burrito and couldn't eat Mexican food again for the rest of my pregnancy. Okay, maybe I'm not ready to be pregnant again! :)
You look great. Congrats!
552. A-2 said:
Your baby bump is adorable. And good job on your choice to stay on your meds.
I took Celexa the whole time I was pregnant and my daughter is 2 1/2 and right on track for all the developmental things she needs to be. No problems so far and she was the easiest kid from birth... the health of the mother truly plays a part in the health of the child.
So, keep yourself healthy and good luck the rest of the pregnancy. Ignore the people who will give you their opinions, because that is all they are... opinions, unasked for!
553. Katy said:
Dear #188, lovehatingdooce,
Why so glum chum? Life is but a bowl of cherries, yet sometimes the ones on the bottom rot and smell like vinegar. You, oh vamp of vile and cantankerous language, I see your inner child and it is pleading for a whooping with a switch of love. I say purge that old cherry bowl, bring in the new, and feast on the soft, sweet juices of life! The luscious elixir will warm you right out of your crabby apple pants.
Come, sit by the fire, let's cuddle.
xo,
confused dildo
P.S. Heather, your adorable baby bump, is yet a tragic reminder of how I need to embrace sit ups and make them my friend. Though, I could not be happier for you.
554. Lisa said:
I have been hoping Bump Watch would be happening. You look amazing. If that's a 'bump' then I must look 8 months pregnat (and I'm not pregnant)...yer just gorgeous.
555. HappyGrrrl said:
Having been on Wellbutrin and Prozac since 2002 (after a nearly suicidal breakdown) I was really resistant to going off meds when pregnant. I hit the "three strikes" rule: three bouts of major depression, and the recommendation is staying on meds for life. Luckily, I had a great team of doctors (psychiatrist, OB, pediatrician) who were all OK not only with my staying on meds but also being able to breastfeed. All agreed killing myself would be more harmful to the baby than staying on the meds.
I now have two healthy kids (3 and 10 months) and they are both bright, smart and funny. I couldn't be the person I am, let alone the mother I am, without the help of meds. Fuck anyone who says you shouldn't do what you need to stay sane.
556. Con said:
After two pregnancies I have learned that the only things you should EVER say to a pregnant woman are:
1. You look truly fabulous!
2. Don't worry, you are going to be a great parent. (People a lot dumber than you have pulled it off!)
Congrats and enjoy this time of change -- hope you feel better soon.
557. Jennie said:
Thank you
558. Susan said:
I am looking forward to reading you for the rest of my life. And to you #188? God don't like ugly. You'll be well aware of those words sooner than you realize. Can't wait until Coco and Chuck see the new baby!
559. Amanda said:
Heather, can I ask a favor? I thought you might read this quicker than email.
I don't know if any of you have heard about Stephanie Nielson, but she and her hubby were in a plane crash in August, and she's still recovering and has a long way to go and astronomical medical bills. Her blog is www.nieniedialogues.blogspot.com and her sister's is blog.cjanerun.com...and they're having an auction for people in Utah for a Christmas lighting service.
Now, I'm not Mormon or even really religious, but I feel so strongly about Stephanie after reading her blog (they also have four kids) that I thought I should tell you, since you live in Utah and presumably have a large network of family and neighbors who could bid on this. (You have to live in Utah to bid, or I would).
The auction is here: http://blog.cjanerun.com/2008/12/lights-camera-auction.html
Sorry if this is too disjointed. But please ask your fellow Utah-ans to help them!
Thanks!
Amanda
560. Erin said:
I have lived through depression, post-partum depression and am currently pregnant with #2 as well. (Also, very tiny bump for 19 weeks). I'm wondering what will happen this time but hopeful that like you, I will recognize the signs and things will be OK. I really believe that to destigmatize mental illness we need to talk about it like the part of everyday life it is for so many families. Thanks for being so frank about this on your blog.
Erin
P.S. I hear you about the toilet bowl. Can't babies be special-delivered instead?
561. Kimmy said:
I was just turned on to your site by RandomandOdd - she kinda freaked out when she learned I didn't read 'Dooce'.
I now hold you personally accountable for the many, many hours that have been lost from catching up with your site. ;)
If you have the doctors advice, do what's best. I guess all those whackos who give YOU advice spend way too much time at webmd -- That makes them expects, right???
I link those to women who read Cosmo for relationship advice LOL
562. Sarah said:
All I can say is, DUH! If you are pregnant and worried about mental health issues and either on or off medication, consult your doctor and make an informed decision. Get a second opinion if you care to. Congratulations Heather and for all those here who are making the right choices for themselves.
As some have mentioned here, Lamictal and Depakote carry very, very high risks of birth defects. So go get said consult and find some SAFE drugs you could use in pregnancy.
I never planned on kids in my life, and then I was diagnosed as bipolar five years ago. Awesomely, it's medication-resistant bipolar. My doctor told me that if I ever did get pregnant and want to go through with it, I would be just about guaranteed a miserable pregnancy followed by hospitalization for postpartum depression. I've taken the pregnancy-safe drugs in the past and they don't work for me, so even if I wanted a child, they're not an option. I'm not broken-hearted, obviously, but I know there's someone out there like me who DOES want a child and is facing these horrible non-choices.
Here's to health to all, especially little Dooce.
563. Marianne C. Wille said:
Congratulations Heather and John! I'm so excited for you! XXOO
564. Stef said:
Congratulations and you are stunningly beautiful!
I can't believe people have the audacity to say those things to/about you. Eff them.
565. erinhazel said:
amen!
3888. Jansen said:
And it's not even a bump yet!
566. Michele said:
This is absolutely my favorite part of your blog - to see your tummy grow! Congrats to you and your lovely family!!
81650. InfamousQBert said:
way to be a complete ass! you win the first award for douchebaggery!
in other news, i'm so glad more and more women are choosing to do this and speak out about it. i haven't had kids yet, but i've been on effexor for a few years and it's certainly something i worry about. i look forward to being able to make my own decision when the time comes and telling the idiots out there to STFU.
567. Cyd said:
Hurray for your decision to stay on the meds, Heather. This IS what's best for the baby. Others might make a different choice, but I know what mine would be.
Since my opinion about it matters and all. :)
568. Jen said:
You look beautiful.
569. amy kate said:
I suffered from depression as a teen/early twenties and took Zoloft for it back then. When I was pregnant with my second child in 2007, I was a raging lunatic to my 3 year old. Went to the doctor, they offered me the Zoloft. I researched it, and had some really negative feedback from people that knew of my mental health struggles and also how I had been acting to my 3 year old.
Screw them. I went on it, and am so grateful that I did. I enjoyed the rest of my pregnancy and was able to be a healthy balanced mother to my older daughter and a functional wife to my husband.
Do what's right for you, it'll be what's right for the family (and the baby).
Congrats!
570. Stacy said:
Thanks for speaking out on this. You're doing a great service when you talk frankly.
Also; funny.
You look great and congrats on the babine.
571. Melanie said:
Don't worry about what others think - take care of yourself!!
66096. Bree said:
I also suffered from PPD and was on my meds throughout my pregnancy. Best decision I ever made! You're doing great, Heather!
572. Jen said:
This is the 600th comment or so and therefore, I doubt you'll read it, but anyways.
Just wanted to say, as a mom of four, the more kids you have the faster you get fat. Nowadays, if I even think about getting pregnant again I need maternity pants.
573. Anonymous said:
Congrats! You look great! I can not wait to hear all about the new addition to the Armstrong family & all the antics that take place after this lil bundle arrives! Are you going to find out the gender?