Bipolar Disorder and Pregnancy (Part 1 of 2)
Today, I am publishing the first of a two-part interview with Dr. Amanda Itzkoff, MD, about bipolar disorder and pregnancy. I am often asked about this subject and, since I am not a doctor nor a woman, I decided it was a good idea to seek the knowledge of a trained medical professional.
How do you advise women when they ask about the possibility of passing bipolar disorder on to their children?
Though there is some discrepancy in data, it is understood that the more family members one has with bipolar disorder, and the closer the relative, the greater the risk. Risks are greater when both parents have bipolar disorder.
When mothers with bipolar disorder are thinking of having a child, their illness is usually quite stable. If you have managed your own illness, you may have some unique advantages in detecting a mood disorder in your child and knowing what to do about it.