Q&A's for the doc

TheMrsW

I've said this a few times - I have a regular psychiatry/psychotherapy (my doctor does both med management and cognitive therapy...she's awesome like that) tomorrow morning. DH is coming into the appointment with me to discuss preparing before we even attempt to start trying. I know I will have to ask about tapering off my medication, that's a given. I always feel awkward when I don't have any questions to ask, so I want to be prepared.

Anyone else out there with mental illness who has talked to their psychiatrist/therapist about TTC and what to do? Any suggestions on what to ask or discuss? I know this may be a little too obscure of a question to ask - so for anyone who doesn't have mental illness, does you know of any resources I can look for?

tbarker14

Hi, sorry I don't have a lot of help but I used to work with people with some mental illness.
I applaud that you will be talking this over with your doctor.
Might want to ask a few questions along the lines of :
- what will the side effects be with med reductions?
- what are treatments that you can seek while med is being reduced?
- what should others be aware of? For example behaviour signs that may be different (this could help your DH to understand the changes you will be going through)
- what are the effects of the meds to the baby if any?
- are there other medications on the market that is safe for pregnancy? And would work as effectively?
- if so would it be an option for you to change to that?
- does this mean that more time is needed on other treatments such as counseling or whatever treatment is offered because the medication is reduced? (if so can you adjust your schedule to fit with that?)
- what should you do if you feel the changes are not helping? Or have no effect on you?
- how long till the medication is out of your system?
- how long until you and your DH can safely start trying?
These are just a few questions I can think off the top of my head...
Sorry I don't have more resources to offer.
(also I'm on the mobile website so I apologize for not spacing out all the questions)
Good luck at your appointment!

TheMrsW

Thank you for the reply! As for alternative treatments, I am just now tapering off TMS - transcranial magnetic stimulation. It has done wonders for me. I'm pretty sure doc wants to wait at least a month before going off any medications just to make sure I don't relapse. But I have been very stable since I've done these treatments.

tbarker14

That's great! Just remember to take your time to get well before going through pregnancy. Your hormones will change drastically when pregnant. So take the time now to focus on you. If you need to wait a month. Then discuss the pros and cons with the dr and your DH of course.
Good luck with the treatment! Hope all goes well!

Ardmhs83

I answered this on my thread that you commented on  

afranchi87

Ardmhs83 said:

I answered this on my thread that you commented on  

Thank you I will go take a look.

Edit - Wow it signed me into my old account. This is TheMrsW. Stupid mobile.