Thanks to Katherine Cruise for sending me the link to this article in USA Today a few days ago about depression during pregnancy: http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2006-03-12-depression-pregnancy_x.htm
In terms of taking meds during pregnancy, I can only share my own experience. As you know, I was on Cymbalta during pregnancy. My daughter did not develop any heart defects or lung defects as far as I know, and she did not experience withdrawal. She seems like a perfectly healthy and happy 1-week old.
This, of course, doesn't guarantee your outcome. Each person and their situation is different. It's important to talk to your doctor.
What an accomplishment this website is! We have a wesite also and would like to have a link to
yours.(We have a dedicated volunteer who is guiding us) But since she has a new baby and a full time job her time is limited. It is http://www.ppdchicago.org and on it we have a 24 hour hotline listed…I will quote my son who wrote to Chicago Sun Times Letters to The Editor last April.”Jennifer Mudd Houghtaling was my sister. And it has taken years for me to recover from her death. My hope is that through the efforts of my family and other caring people, new moms will know they have a place to turn when they need help. The 24-hour help line 866-364-6667 is there for new mothers and their families. By the way, that phone number is not just for emergencies. Call if you or someone you know is pregnant or gave birth in the last year and feels a little down. The trained professional who responds to your call can help with both big and smaller problems.
Kevin J. Mudd
Glenview,Illinois
Katherine,
Thank you, thank you, thank you for keeping us all so well informed, especially during this newborn phase! What you are doing is such an incredible service to us all and laced with such hope for those women in the midst of any type of PPD. Your website is the best I have visited regarding PPD…so valuable and constantly keeping us informed on daily developments regarding the illness. Thank you again and enjoy your tiny little baby girl.
Christy Falco
Miami, Florida