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!
1. Patrick T. said:
You are truly an inspiration.
Don't let the bastards grind you down.
2. Daddy Scratches said:
You mean you don't want unsolicited parental criticism from total strangers? Hmmm ... fancy that.
I'm on Wellbutrin, and when I go off of it, I turn into a clove-hooved beast, which I have come to accept, to the extent that I no longer go off of it ... and I can only image how much more critical it would be for me to stay on it if was nauseous and swelling from the, you know, person growing inside my lower abdomen.
3. Rachel said:
Your baby bump is beautiful! :)
4. Britt said:
Ah, Dooce. I lurve you. Seriously.
5. karen said:
you look really great, dooce. congrats again. it is wonderful news.
6. GEMMERZZ said:
good lord, i have the same bump... but no baby in there! (err, knock on wood.)
between you and your doctor, who are we to say anything? i have no medical knowledge of prozac, but i know enough people and have read enough to tell you to please refrain from drinking alcohol, smoking crack, or shooting heroin while pregnant... or at least refrain from blogging about it. ;)
good luck on a healthy pregnancy. the bean looks good so far!
7. Tracy said:
With each pregnancy, I started to show earlier and earlier. In fact, I started to show with the 3rd kid before I even knew I was pregnant. I just thought it was the beer and tacos. My ob said it's because my uterus was tired. And because it was tired, it decided not to stay all tucked and pretty. I guess it might've also been pissed, like Oh great, here we go again. Nevertheless, your uterus is awesome. And some days, that's just gotta be enough.
8. Alex Dean said:
Yay Dooce!
9. casey said:
rock on! what a beautiful picture =)
10. Britta said:
I always hope my parents/others don't google my name either haha!
11. Crystal said:
Because all of these critics are assuredly doctors. Screw 'em. Cute bump by the way...
12. Sarah said:
Heather, bless you for dealing with such hate and still having the bravery to continue speaking your truth. Bravo for doing what's best for you!
13. dewi said:
Medicine good!
okay to take during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Go eat cake and ice cream!
14. Sarah said:
You tell 'em, Heather. Congratulations.
15. Heather-in-Australia said:
Congratulations and all the happiness in the world to you!
People who naysay are a bunch of cockholsters. More power to you for knowing who you are and what you and your family needs & for being a positive voice for those who are struggling to know that for themselves.
16. Mama Sayd said:
1) your bump is cuter than mine - damn you!
2) you do whatever works for you and damn them!
3) I have a dear friend that has a bad case of bi-polar disorder. she will have to have electroshock treatments when she gets pregnant - so I ask you which is worse for your kid, a an extra finger or twitching uncontrollably???
Just kidding but those "others" might think I am on to something.
Trust the doctors, trust yourself - you'll be fine!!!
17. Ashly Sheldon said:
My non-baby bump is bigger!
18. sassypriscilla said:
You look great!
I believe that a doctor treating a pregnant woman has to also think of the well being of the mother. I am glad you are confident in your decision and hope that you can maintain an even, happy keel in your pregnancy and after. Here is hoping the nausea subsides soon.
19. katie morton said:
Good for you lady -- Rock on with yer bad self. :) Love reading your blog. Hi Leta!
20. Jen said:
While pregnant with my second child, I had suicidal thoughts and was put in the hospital. I had been taking Zoloft for years but it wasn't working as well. My OB added Wellbutrin to the mix. I was worried about side effects for my son but was also glad I was alive to see him grow up. Heather, you have to do what is best for you first, then you can take care of that sweet baby! Good luck!
21. Karen said:
As long as both you and your doctors are okay with your decisions, it is no one else's business at all. I know several women who took Prozac through multiple pregnancies without any problems.
And about that bump, it is amazing how much faster it grows the second time around. First baby for me meant no maternity clothes until 6 months. Second baby was before 3 months. And they were the same exact size (weight and height) at birth!
Hope you feel better soon.
22. Callie said:
Looking forward to reading all about your pregnancy, Prozac and all. Is it wrong that I kinda like the commenters who post ridiculous advice and expect you to listen to them? It gives me something to giggle about.
23. M said:
Screw em!
It is funny how people are so handy with advice for situations they have no clue about. I have been told more than once how medication is a big scam and I am copping out by taking it, I should just be strong enough to deal. You are making a responsible healthy decision based upon your needs, medical advice, and experiences. I have also chosen to stay medicated during my pregnancy(9weeks) even though I am going to try and lower my doseage(which scares the crap out of me), but I know that if I can't handle it my baby is better off with a sane mother than someone "who can't deal".
Good luck and keep you pecker up!
24. Ariel said:
You are ADORABLE! :) And don't pay any attention to the mean people who are trying to play Dr. over the internet.
25. firstlady said:
My partner had grand plans to get off of Paxil since she hopes to get pregnant next year. After a few weeks of decreasing her dosage, it became VERY clear to both of us that her getting of her anxiety meds would do no one any good, least of all a pregnant lady. So, she's now on Zoloft and plans to be on it while pregnant. Sanity is good.
26. dewi said:
Did you know that a glass of wine or a cocktail once in a blue moon is also fine while you're pregnant!
Now you can really get them going! ;-/>
27. Heather said:
from this mother who suffered with the "no more wire hangers" syndrome, i say take care of yourself so that you can take care of your baby. your doing the right thing.
love the bump!
28. Anonymous said:
I suffer from Crohn's disease and like you after much consideration, soul searching and seaking out the advice of not one but 3 different doctors chose to continue taking Imuran during my pregnancy. Unfortunately I mis-carried just over a week ago. I'm secure in the decision that I made and feel sure that my medication had nothing to do with the ending of this pregnancy. It just wasn't the right time. I wish however that my family could see things that way. I wish you the best of luck and all the happiness the world has to give you.
29. Christina said:
Atta girl, Heather. Keep defending yourself and your baby.
:) Happy for you!
30. Anonymous said:
Dude. Don't listen to anyone but your doctor and yourself.
31. Steph said:
I think it's wonderful that you're having another baby. Knowing what you went through and being willing to risk it again - you're a very strong woman. My pregnancies are also horrible, I've had two and that's enough. Worth it, but very hard to get through. I really hope that with the meds you are able to enjoy the babymoon more. With my daughter we had huge attachment issues and depression caused by some meds I was on. With my son it was completely different, and I'm so glad I had the different experience. It helped me appriciate the bond I have with my daughter so much more knowing I had worked so hard for it.
33696. Katespeare said:
::high fiving all the positive comments::
32. Emily said:
I took Zoloft through my entire pregnancy. Both my OB and my Psychiatrist said it was better to have a healthy (both physically and emotionally) mom than to have an unhealthy one. My baby was the most relaxed and laid back baby ever. No colic or fussing for no reason. I like to think it was the Zoloft.
33. Anonymous said:
cute stripey tshirt. not that you care, as documented in your post yesterday, but cucumber sushi seems to relieve morning sickness for me. Good to listen to a veteran of 2 morning sickness-filled pregnancies, rather than just one. Good luck!
34. n_m said:
Dang, you look good. I look like that after I eat one bowl of cereal.
I would say stay the course. Its working for many people.
35. Lynne said:
I love these posts. I look back on my early months with my two children, now 3 and 6 and realize that I was suffering from postpartum depression. At the time I didn't understand why I was throwing things at my husband's head or flying off the handle and having very disturbing thoughts. If I would have been reading your site back then, I would have gotten some help.
36. Kate said:
I got off meds to get pregnant, and now am desperately scrambling to get back on something I can take while nursing...so I wish I had just stayed on the damn drugs in the first place. Oh and I wish my Dr.'s weren't nincompoops.
Nothing worked for my morning sickness either. Sometimes if i put an atomic fireball in each cheek like a squirrel - then drank lemonade at the same time, I got some momentary relief. Yum! Hang in there, kiddo.
37. Micaela said:
Congratulations on the pregnancy! Can't wait to see the baby and hear all about Leta as a big sister.
38. trish said:
Heather, BRAVO! We need more women like you who stand up and say, "Eff you! I'm NOT WRONG for what I'm doing, and I won't sit down and be silent." Suffice it to say I had my own little blog hell incident a few weeks ago, including the insinuation of a lawsuit, but I didn't back down nor did I take down my post because I WASN'T WRONG. Why is it the people who are in the right are backing down for big ol' bullies? I'm not saying it's easy to stick up for yourself or a point of view, just that it's necessary. Most of the time.
:-)
39. Emily said:
I hated those people when I was pregnant. Especially the ones who acted like medicine is rat poison. A miserable mom isn't healthy either.
Congratulations!
40. Anonymous said:
heather,
i know you will think i am crazy, but have you considered consuming your placenta? there are numerous studies proving the benefits in preventing PPD.
just a thought from a crazy canuck,
courtney
41. amy said:
Oh dooce, I so *heart* you. Congrats to you, Jon, Leta, Chuck & Coco. What a family this little one gets to join.
42. satandirty said:
Thank you for the encouragement. It gives hope to all of us coping with similar problems.
Oh, and btw Mama Sayd - thank you too. I'm at the moment very happy that my bipolar is well treatable with about 8 different medication, but thank God that not with electrocution:)
43. Jen Kochanski said:
Congratulations Heather -- on your pregnancy and deciding to make the right choice to take care of yourself and stay on Prozac. Your baby (and your family) will be better off with you staying sane & healthy.
You are a brave, inspiring (and fucking hilarious) woman.
22032. namedphoenix said:
zomg. I was going to say the same thing. I was looking at myself in the mirror last night and was like, "DAMN, I look like I'm pregnant."
Dooce preggers with Leta at 12 weeks is flatter than I am, on any day of the week.
44. Z said:
I don't know if you're a Scrubs fan, but this is one of my favorite quotes from the show (from two of my most favorite sarcastic characters):
Dr. Cox, Jordan, and baby Jack are having a little family time on a blanket in the park.
A woman pushes a stroller containing her own child over to them.
Mother: Hi, cutie! Since you have so many balls, and too many toys can be over-stimulating for an infant, Brantley here was wondering if he could borrow one to play with!
Dr. Cox: Oh, that's funny, because Jack here was just wondering why the crazy lady who just spent the last hour chain smoking and talking on her cell phone while her kid ate sand would come over to two complete strangers and give them parenting advice!
Jordan: Oh, oh! He also thanked me for not naming him "Brantley"!
Quotes like these are worth remembering, in my opinion. :)
Also, I'm very happy for you and your family. Go Dooce!
45. Heather said:
Congratulations on the baby to bee! You look wonderful, & happy. Don't worry about what the internet morons say. They're everywhere. Famous quote says it all: "Keep your friends close & your enemies closer." At least you know where they are, right? Best wishes!
46. Cynthia Cradduck said:
I have read your blog for I don't know how long... I even got my hubby to be a fan of yours (We both just love Leta! She has to be one of the prettiest kids ever!)
To those asses that would bring you down, Fuck You! This has to be one of the most honest blogs out there and I have loved, laughed and cried (yes, cried) with you, Heather.
Just be true to yourself Heather, love those kids with your whole being and they will return it ten-fold... though it may not seem like it when they reach those teenaged years ^_^
47. Sarah said:
Seeing that little bump I'm just so happy for you :)
48. Phoo-D said:
Bump Watch - That could be a new hit TV Show! You know, slow motion opening shots of pregnant women running to the bathroom!
Congrats on the beautiful baby pics and bump - here's for hoping that the second time around is far easier than the first!
49. tracy said:
Heather, thank you (again) for putting it all out there (again). I went off my meds for baby #1, went crazy, and went back on them at week 26 with the blessing of my obgyn. If I am lucky enough to get prego with baby #2, there is no doubt in my mind that I will continue on my meds. For me, knowing what I know now, it is the ONLY option.
50. Lindsay said:
Heather, I am so glad you are writing this blog and that you are telling me about these experiences. My biggest concern about getting pregnant has always been the postpartum depression (since, I too, have been on - and very unsuccessfully off) anti-depressions since I was 19. I KNOW I will need to stay on them when pregnant, but always wondered. When I read about your depression after Leta was born, I not only could understand but knew that my life would definitely follow suit if I chose to stop taking the meds. I'm glad you are here to share these things.
51. robyn said:
You look fab!
I took Paxil through my whole pregnancy, then upped the dosage in the final month just to "prep" for potential PPD. I think it's irresponsible to NOT take it, knowing the outcome could be the same as last time!
Good for you for not only staying on your meds, but feeling confident in your decision.
52. April said:
I started showing earlier with 2nd and 3rd pregnancies too. It's normal for most women according to my OBGYN. I also had more "growing pains" during those pregnancies, you'll know of what I speak if you should have the same pleasure. It's not terrible, but it feels like something is constantly tugging on your uterus, gently but it's there.
As for the prozac and the haters, fuck 'em. I like your attitude. It's your baby and you are making a sane, informed choice and that's all that matters. Maybe the trolls need some prozac of their own?
P.S. The baby bump is beautiful
53. Danielle said:
Here's some unsolicited advice from someone who has never been pregnant, nor suffered from depression: yay for choosing to stay on your meds! Only you know and your doctor know what's best for you and your baby. And I'm glad you're giving all those whiny twits who think they know better a big, fat "PISS OFF!" You're already a great mother and you'll continue to be one for the New Little Armstrong growing inside your bump =)
54. Anonymous said:
I've never before commented on a blog, but I'm here to say that I was on Prozac for my entire pregnancy and the beautiful, talented, charming, *perfect* result is in the room next door singing her heart out. When I had her in 2000 there wasn't much evidence to prove that it was ok, but I'm here to say IT IS! Congratulations and best of luck to you.
55. schadenfreudette said:
so much word. thanks for telling your haters where to stick it, but in a much classier way than i would have done. i'm proud of you and excited for your growing family.
56. Kelly said:
I'm going to echo Jen K. up above and agree you are brave. And hilarious. And really should be smacked around a little for being so cute while pregnant.
57. Mandy said:
Thanks, Heather. Other women out here ARE thinking about it. I know I'll stay on mine, too. :)
58. anika said:
You are an outstanding mother and hilarious to boot! Also, cute baby bump! I showed more on my second pregnancy than my first too.
59. noodlestein said:
Beautiful baby bump; congrats a million times over.
And as for the Prozac, you have to keep taking it to cope with all the needless hate mail you're gonna get. Exclamation point!
60. Amanda said:
GOOD FOR YOU!! Go tell 'em where to stick it!
And, as far as that bump goes...I am not sure why you need maternity pants for that, but congrats anyway! I am 21 weeks pregnant and just look like a tub a goo is sitting in my belly. Everyone says, "You don't even look pregnant," and by that they mean, "You just look like a fat ass." So, congrats on looking more pregnant than fat!
61. Anonymous said:
I am 31 weeks and the amount of unsolicited advise and intrusive questions is amazing.
The prescription medicine Zofran worked miracles for me during the first 14 weeks of horrific nausea and vomiting. It's quite expensive but worth every penny! I tried everything...sour candy, sead bands, ginger, eating every hour, drinking lemonade, etc. Nothing worked but Zofran.
62. Patty said:
My gas bloat on any given day is bigger then your pregnant bump.
I have been following your blog for year, but I have never commented. I am always in awe of the criticism you receive over your choices. I am so thrilled that you are pregnant and I can't wait to read about your adventures when the baby finally arrives. I especially can't wait to see how Leta reacts to her new sibling. I hope Utah is ready.
63. Anonymous said:
I wonder if this baby will be ugly as sin like Leta when she was first born. Good thing she got cuter. I was worried. O_o.
64. rb said:
OMG! I haven't clicked by in a week or so and look what I missed.
CONGRATULATIONS HEATHER!!!
You look great.
(Any woman who's been pregnant can relate to the unsolicited advice. Sorry about that.)
65. Becky said:
Meeting you is on my list of things to do before I die - not because you are a celebrity at this point or because I enjoy your sense of style and your love of hippos, but because I want to give you a hug and thank you for taking a medium that is often based on hiding and separateness and making it about togetherness. Because you reach through the internet and make many of us feel a little less alone.
66. Puanani said:
Congratulations! I remember popping out so quickly with the second one. It is as if our bodies remember, "Oh this what we are supposed to do." Poof, out goes the belly. Enjoy, endure or whatever keeps you sane. Blessings.
67. Leslie in Toronto said:
Oh ya ... that's a bump, and it is AWESOME! Congrats!
68. kellie said:
Those two bumps look exactly the same to me, but I'm sure they feel a lot different. For sure my own bump got bigger faster with each pg - or maybe you just start getting used to the maternity pants, I don't know.
As someone who was a nut about taking anything during pg, I still feel like there are legitimate reasons for taking some medications during some pregnancies. If you worked with your dr and a specialist, and you all feel OK about taking the medication, then that is your own business. The busybodies can pound sand.
Oh, and I'm sure you got a million morning sickness remedies, but if you can take a couple more I'll share mine. I had horrible MS - actually lost 40-50 pounds during each pg (I had it to lose). The only things that helped were to go ahead and throw up first thing in the AM - if I fought it, it was worse all day. Then, have a popsicle. It gets you a little sugar and hydration but it's cold, so it doesn't taste or smell much. Finally, the very small McDonald's cheeseburgers (plain) or the small Taco Bell bean and cheese burritos (plain). Whatever it is, they seem to have the right combo of fat/carb/protein to keep a bit of food down. Hope you're feeling better.
69. Elle Bee said:
Good for you! Excellent post.
70. Katie said:
Good for you, Heather! I commend you for taking charge of your life and body (as little as is possible during a pregnancy) and doing what you feel is right for you, your family and your baby. And as for those that feel the need to judge you, I say, "Screw 'em!"
Cute bump, too! :-)
71. Liz said:
Are you a Leo? If not, you should be. I freakin' adore you. Eff the haters!
72. Kylee said:
YAY! Aww I'm so excited for you!
73. Sylvia said:
Well, I don't know but it seems likely to me that Heather has never said "Eff you" to anyone in her life.
Sorry, the comment just made me chuckle.
Cute bump. :)
74. Marinka said:
You look fantastic and Prozac sounds delicious.
75. Camels & Chocolate said:
Delurking to say a belated Congrats!!!
And even though you say you're miserable physically, you look absolutely beautiful in that top photo. Also, kudos for exposing what pregnancy is really like! I've never had a kid (and don't plan on it at this point in my life), but I really cannot imagine pregnancy being "a beautiful thing" like so many mommies claim(/lie). My cousin just had her first child and shared your sentiments, while she's crazy about her kid, she could definitely go through life without experiencing those nine months again!
Someone gave me an amazing compliment on my blog today, on a post in which I parsed this particularly cruel commenter. She said, "Dooce would be proud!" The highest form of flattery, if you ask me!
76. Jennifer_in_Italy said:
Heather,
Congratulations! You are such an inspiration to women around the world. Thank you for sharing so much of your life with us. I wish you the best with your pregnancy. As they say in Italy, "In bocca al lupo"! ("In the wolf's mouth" a.k.a. good luck.)
77. Tiffany said:
I suffered from horrible depression during my last pregnancy. I wish so much that I had said something to my doctor, that I had gotten help. Hopefully your words will be what another woman needs to hear, that it's OK to take care of yourself.
78. Sarah said:
I think it's absolutely great that you're willing to share this with all of us. And as for the critics, I don't think you can really be criticized for doing everything you possibly can to make sure that you can be the best mother and partner you can.
79. Anonymous said:
HUGS! for being pregnant, for taking care of yourself, for doing research, for standing up for the rest of us, for setting an great example for us scaredy-cats out there, for all of it. HUGS!
Bump = too cute
80. Alesha said:
Heather,
Thanks for speaking out about this. When I was pregnant with my son, I was on Wellbutrin for panic disorder, anxiety stuff, and depression. I was nervous about taking the meds, but people go on to have perfectly healthy and happy babies. It really saved me too when I was going through my own bout of postpartum depression. I'm now currently trying to get pregnant with our second child and am on Zoloft. The way I figure it, if I'm crazy woman, I'm no good to anyone, including the unborn child I hope to carry. Those crazies can just shove it!
Alesha
81. Randi said:
kudos to you heather! congrats- im excited for you guys! and i sooo agree with everyone else... i think its important that YOU stay healthy physically and mentally during this pregnancy!!!
82. Keri said:
What a gorgeous little baby bump! Congratulations! :)
83. Joanne said:
I have been thinking about this a lot lately and I'm so glad you posted this. I don't take anything right now but am extremely overwhelmed and overtired here lately, pregnant with my third, and I have wondered about what I would do if I needed to medicate. All you can do is listen to your doctors, that's it! Your bump looks like a flat belly to me, btw and I am mad jealous.
84. Diana said:
Sweet baby J, you ROCK. That's all I can think to say. Great post and belly.
85. michael p said:
I don't usually comment, but if any of "those lovely" people live near me I would be happy to muck up their fancy facial work with my fists... unless they are a lot bigger than me then I could write them a sternly worded letter
86. Bags said:
My mom was on Prozac when she had me, and I was born with 2 heads, an extra nipple and spider sense. Not to mention my farts smell like peach cobbler. That might not have anything to do with the meds though.
Anywho, Prozac during pregnancy? I couldn't recommend it more!
87. Steph H said:
Thank you for sharing this with us. Your strength is inspiring.
88. cck said:
Thank you. Thank you. Thank you.
I was so scared that my choices were either to spend my third trimester in an institution or forgo having a baby that genetically resembles its parents. It doesn't have to be that way. Thank you for sharing your opinion about it -- for giving a mom-to-be the confidence to ask her doctor for all the answers.
I am a functional adult, thanks in great part to a glorified salt pill. I plan on taking my magic pill before, during and after pregnancy. I figure I'll screw up my child on so many different levels, introducing a mood stabilizer a little early won't hurt. Goodness, it might even help given her parents' genetics.
89. Kristan said:
Well said.
And hey, look at Dooce Jr! So cute. You know, for a sonogram.
90. Kathryn said:
Hi Heather,
There are so many people out there with so many issues and they have a hell of a lot of hate in them. I guess they have their place. They make the rest of us realize what we shouldn't behave like. They still make me uncomfortable. And fear for the world. Sometimes their voices are louder than all the nice people's voices. I hope you really don't get too discouraged by them. You seem really tough, but no one is that tough. Just know that a whole lot of us think that they are bloody idiots and that you are doing a great job and you seem like a good person/mother/wife.
Good luck with the rest of the pregnancy and keep doing what you're doing! You're great!
Kathryn
91. Karilynn said:
Heather, you look truly beautiful! I wish you the best, a happy and healthy pregnancy. I agree with staying on Prozac. My sister did and she has a perfectly healthy baby. :) Best of luck. Don't let the people with nasty commentary get to you! They are not you and frankly, it's none of their business or concern.
92. Alison said:
You rock my world!! I look forward to reading your page everyday, and think you are so wildly funny and smart, that I hope to be just like you when I "grow up"!!
93. Katrisha M said:
Over the last couple years I have read studies about how the mental health of a mother gives rise to the mental health of the child. I then compare my mental health during/after my first and second pregnancies. First = stress and depression, second = Zoloft starting about 3 months in, and no depression (well abnormal depression anyways). My oldest is a good kid, but is very serious and solemn. The younger one is happy, dancing, and singing all the time.
I am now a firm believer in prophylactic antidepressants, or the continuance of the same therapies during pregnancy if there is a history or need.
Keep up the good work growing a new person to make the world a better place.
94. Christine said:
YAY! I wasn't around for the Leta pregnancy and I was so hoping we would get bump pictures! And now we get a bonus sonogram?! Woo hoo! Maybe trade the mona lisa for a dirty smirk? Rude gestures with electric guitars & tequila bottle (and nekkid tummy)? No? ok. Just a thought.
95. Sara said:
Heather, thank you for putting yourself out there and standing up for Mother's out there who have to choose between between sanity and what other's might think. I suffered from PPD after my daughter, and it was a nightmare. Unfortunately, I wasn't treated for depression until after my son was born. Seriously. The good thing is that even though I wasn't treated after my daughter I was prepared to be treated after my Son. I made my doctors aware, and I was aware of the signs. I was at the doctors at the first sign of depression and it made all the difference. I was able to fully enjoy my sons first year of life, where my daughters is a bit of a fog.
I'm currently on Lamictal, which can't be taken if I get pregnant again. It is a concern for me to be off meds, and what the risks might be. But it's something that I will work with my doctors on.
Also, on an off note. While I was pregnant with my son I developed low platelets which required that I take steroids for the second half of my pregnancy. Plus, I developed gallstones, and the only thing the doctors could do to help was to have me take Vicodin with every attack. Which occurred twice a week! Ya, freaking Vicodin twice a week for my whole last trimester.
I'm happy to report that my son was born completely healthy, and trust that I was worried about the affects of the meds on him.
I wish you a heathy pregnancy. Congratulations.
Sara
96. Val said:
You rock on, pretty, pretty lady! Screw what other people say and do what is right for you and your family.
81648. Karilynn said:
Wow, that is not a very nice thing to say.
97. Anonymous said:
that's not a baby bump, just bad posture
98. Luna-See said:
Brava!
99. Sue said:
Yay for you and your baby, Heather! I haven't been pregnant myself, but my sister had my beautiful, normal niece 3 months ago and took Prozac thru her entire pregnancy. She was also nauseaous for the first 6 months AND had to eat 6 times a day - she's diabetic. And again - the baby is fine and beautiful. Congrats to you and your family :)
100. Carrie said:
Jealous. And happy, but still jealous. I can't wait for the day when my bump watch begins.
Congrats! Hoping its a boy!
101. sandi said:
I took Prozac with all four of my pregnancies and they all turned out about as freakin weird as me! Keep taking it! Who wants a normal boring baby! People like us, want babies like us.
I am 100% for prozac in pregnancy. It beats depression in pregnancy and even beats suicide in pregnancy. People who give you shit, deserve mean ass emails from me. Send me a few to respond to will you?
102. Leah said:
One thing naysayers aren't considering is that it is dangerous to be pregnant while in poor mental health. A pregnant mom's mental instability can have countless negative effects on a sensitive fetus. Most research proves Prozac, Zoloft, etc don't harm a fetus so it more risky to drop the meds once you find yourself pregnant. You did the right thing by consulting with your doctor and then staying the course.
103. Lydia said:
Prozac and being pregnant doesn't sound like a good combination. But you appear to be sane enough to know what's good for you and your baby. You are an inspiration to any mom-to-be.
104. Jacqueline said:
Twins are cool. I have a pair and then my boy, he's the spare. Stay healthy. Whatever it takes.
105. Rachel said:
You look beautiful!!
106. Michelle said:
Look, I think you're great. I also think that people should realise how intelligent you are (obviously), and that you are not going to do anything to harm your baby.
All the best for a healthy pregnancy!
107. Rebecca said:
I think Rebecca Walker wrote about being on medication while pregnant, and how it was absolutely the right choice for her. At least that's what I remember from an episode of News and Notes I caught ages ago. Maybe I'm misremembering. But women who are questioning might want to read her research and thoughts, too.
Some people just aren't happy when women take care of themselves. They'll never be happy as long as we have any kind of agency so there's just never any sense in listening to them.
It'll be a happier and healthier baby if its mom is happy and healthy too. Emphasis on happy.
108. tara whitney said:
heather, i love you. i just had to say that.
you say what so many of us want to say.
thank you.
109. Candice said:
Heather, you were the little voice in my head that said, "It's okay!" as my OBGyN suggested I might be depressed six weeks after my son was born. I was extremely hesitant to start meds until I remembered reading about your experience after Leta was born. So, under the great big stigma cloud of taking anti-depressants I started Lexapro. It saved my sanity and allowed me to be the best mother possible to my newborn.
Thank you!
By the way, I think you look peaceful and lovely in your current state.
Good luck!
110. amber belmonte said:
your honesty is so refreshing!
lovin' the bump. ;)
111. acacia said:
I actually think the most funny thing is that there wasn't a single "hater" email to be had. Another great one. Keep it up! :)
112. Jeska said:
Hi Heather,
I think that it's great that you are putting yourself out there so that others may not feel so alone.
All of the people that down on you for that have issues of their own.
I hope that your pregnancy is as easy as it can be.
Jeska
113. willson said:
Simply said... well, good for you.
114. Chelsey said:
Making the decision to stay on an anti-depressant while pregnant isn't an easy one. When I found out I was pregnant I was struggling with the decision to stay on mine. I did (as it was a safe one) and couldn't be happier with my decision. My child is healthy and I'm mentally healthy-ish. If I had stopped taking my meds, it would have put me and my child at risk for depression related issues.
You made the decision that is right for you and your children, so good on you!
115. Amity said:
Does anyone else find it extremely funny that the brand name Siemens appears on the upper left-hand corner on the screen of an ulstrasound?
116. KelliAmanda said:
A good friend of mine went off her meds for her first pregnancy and subsequently suffered from major postpartum depression following the birth of her daughter. She opted to stay on Zoloft for her second pregnancy, and had a much better outcome after the birth of her son.
I don't know if I'll ever have a biological child, but I've long known that I would have to stay on at least some meds if I were to go through a pregnancy. It sucks, but thank goodness there are meds out there that can make you not want to kill yourself.
117. KK said:
Thanks for posting the decision to take Prozac during your pregnancy. As another person who suffers from clinical depression, this is important to share with others in similar situations. And I agree about the people who so freely condemn you for your decisions -- they have their own issues that they should be addressing instead of yours.
Your baby bump is beautiful. Hope that you can continue to gain healthy weight during this pregnancy... every pregnancy is different.
118. tamrabeth said:
Another lurker reaching out to say amen to that.
I took Zoloft for my entire pregnancy and the 12 months I breastfed (I claim insane first time mommy-ness and lack of knowledge about what my breasts would look like after). My daughter is fine and I had a great 9 months.
Thanks for again sharing your life knowing you'll get judged and receive tons of unsolicited advice. Know that sometimes it helps SO much to know that we the daily readers are not alone in our struggles.
119. jen said:
And how I wish my tummy 'bump' was that small!
120. Sera @ Laughing Through the Chaos said:
I just wanted to say that I really appreciated this post. I'm on medication for postpartum depression, and I totally respect the fact that you are remaining on medication. You and your doctors know what is best for you and best for your baby, and I admire the fact that you could care less about what the rude people have to say to you. By the way, you look fabulous!
121. Jess said:
Good for you!! You look great :)
I fully plan on staying on my meds if/when I decide to grow a baby. Your honesty makes it easier for the rest of us to live the way we need to for our own health. Thank you. So much.
122. Rachel said:
Hi Heather,
Lately I've had an incredible number of trolls on my blog, people writing horrible things about me, antisemitic things, people telling me to go home (I'm American and live in Brazil). And oddly, it really gets under my skin. But then I think about all of the incredibly ridiculous things people say to you, the mean, cruel, and awful things they say, and I realize that I have to learn to grow thicker to skin if I'm going to have a successful blog, just like you have. Thank you for the inspiration.
-Rachel
123. Stimey said:
I'm sure you've gotten your share of these emails as well, but I took Lexapro the whole time I was pregnant with my third child and he's perfectly okay. He's a little bit of an asshole, but I think that has more to do with him being three than with the antidepressants.
124. Anonymous said:
You look beautiful Momma! Congrats! You have a handsome little bean as well - looks just like Jon!
Screw whoever is going to make comments about you taking your meds and following Drs orders - how dare you! :p Is Tom Cruise reading this blog???
125. Liz said:
If it makes you feel better, over Thanksgiving, my mother in law informed me that my veganism was going to kill my baby.
Here's something awesome: I'm not pregnant.
Cheers to people not knowing what they're talking about!
To you and your happy pregnancy...
126. Chantel said:
A-fucking-MEN!! You kick ass!!
127. Nancy said:
I think your 'bump' is adorable... but I've got to tell you that if my tummy looked like that, I'd consider it a flat stomach! Still... it IS a bump, and I think that's wonderful. As for the Prozac, do what you and your doctor think is right, and to hell with everyone else. And thanks for sharing your pregnancy with us. I wanted kids, but couldn't have them, so I'm enjoying this in a vicarious sort of way!
128. Big Momma said:
F the haters. You go girl!
129. Kelly said:
I'm about 3-4 weeks behind you and I'm going to go down the same road clutching my bottle of Celexa. I don't know why people have such a steryotype about depression. If you had diabetes, would they tell you back off your insulin? For those of you who dont' understand...take the worst day of your intire life, add physical pain, lack of sleep and the worst anxiety you've ever felt, and imagine it getting worse every day until you just want to gas yourself in the garage with your minivan. Then imagine the best day, calm, happy, clear headed - that's a day with medication. I don't know why I got depression. But, I can have a normal life with medication, including adding to our family. With any other medical treatment, you have to outweight the risks with the benefits. Unless you've been there, you can't judge.
130. Karen said:
Kudos to you for putting this out there. Only a healthy mom can make a healthy baby. Meds aren't all bad during pregnancy and sometimes the benefit far outweighs the risk.
Thanks for sharing, and I hope your puking ends soon!
131. Megan said:
Congratulations, Heather!
And for all the people who say that you shouldn't have more children, as a high-school teacher I can say for sure that we need more kids with loving, aware parents like you and Jon.
132. Chris said:
You look great! I'll validate your bump for you. I see it. Glad you're taking care of yourself... so important.
81649. Amy said:
WTF is wrong with you?! I'm sure you're the fucking Gerber baby, eh?
133. Tucson Patty said:
I'm proud of you for standing up for your body and health - mental and physical. Congratulations on your little bundle of joy.
134. Kelsi said:
Yeah I wanted to be all organic and natural birth-y but then I couldn't get pregnant without drugs. And then those drugs resulted in twins (and yes, the first year was an absolute friggin' nightmare) and those twins didn't want to gestate for 9 (really 10) months, no sirreee, they wanted to come early so I needed to be on bedrest in the hospital with an IV pump of magnesium sulfate which is so toxic that they had to test my blood every 9 hours to make sure I wasn't turning green from the inside out. And they pumped me with steroids to mature lungs and epogen to increase my red blood cell production and three different kinds of antibiotics to fight infection.
All that still brought me preemie babies who required all kinds of intervention to save their lives.
Thank God for chemistry.
So, that's my long winded way of saying you do what you gotta do. The chemistry that you take is just as important to your life and the well-being of your family.
135. Sara said:
Amen chick! A few years ago there was a family on GMA that the mother was diagnosed with breast cancer shortly after a positive pregnancy test. She kept the baby and went through chemo, and the baby was born perfectly healthy. Pretty sure the Prozac isn't going to a damn thing except keep you healthy, and that in turn will make for a happy baby and mom :)
And dude, I almost bought that shirt at Old Navy last weekend. I opted for the multi-colored one though. They're very forgiving in regards to bumpage.
You look lovely Heather, really. Where's the acne you were talking about? You liar!
136. Phatchik said:
I've always heard that you start showing MUCH sooner with your second (and so on) pregnancy. I guess your uterus just snaps back into pregnancy-place!
137. winecat said:
You look blissfully happy. And who better to make decisions for you and your Doocette than you and your doctor. You go girl.
138. Theresa said:
Three cheers for: 1. Going into pregnancy with open eyes about your physical and mental health and the health of your baby; 2. Sticking it to all the morons who have the gall to chastise you for your well-considered decisions; and 3. Being open and frank (as always )about depression and medication, which is still pretty taboo.
Also, my partner owes you a thank-you note because all the baby-having and cute bump pictures are making this commitment-phobe want to get married (Prop 8 notwithstanding) and have babies like next week.
139. Veerle said:
Congrats on your little new bean. You look great!
140. Vicky said:
Having read your trials with postpartum depression, I think you should do whatever you need to do to keep sane. Even if that *does* involve ketchup with every meal.
Congratulations again - I'm so pleased for you all :)
141. sayvil said:
When I was 7-weeks pregnant with my second kid, I was already showing. It was very frustrating. At least I got to skip the "just looks fat" step that time.
142. Amanda said:
You go heather. I'M SO EXCITED FOR YOU!!!! (Still). And it STILL requires the use of caps and way too many exclamation points. ;)
Sometimes I wonder if it's weird that I care so much about you and your family when we don't even actually know each other...but I do, and I'm soooooooooooo happy for y'all!
143. Jack & Jill Put Up A Blog said:
Screw 'em! Hell yeah! You are inspiring. Jack says so too!
Love the pics. Do you always look this cute? Geez. I work from home too and I have not showered yet because I intend to workout today! It's like 3:30 here. Ugh. Anywho. Go Dooce-er-mama!
144. Daddy Scratches said:
Um, about comment #2? I meant "cloven-hooved beast," not "clove-hooved beast."
I know: totally lame to make an additional comment just to correct a typo in a previous comment, but I am neurotic enough to where it would drive me nuts to not address it. Humor me.
145. Debbie said:
Do whats best for you and your family! You are helping others to understand that sometimes you have to help yourself.
146. Jennifer nguyen said:
kudos to you!!! Do what you need to do to be a happy mama!!!!
147. Leigh said:
I'm sure you've heard this a million times but once more for good measure -- Prozac has been around so long and studied so extensively that most doctors agree that, even though there are no *formal* studies, it is safe for the baby.
Or safer than letting the woman carrying said baby go down the spiral into utter despair.
My two cents, worth probably less, but still. :)
148. Kim said:
Mama Heather,
Honey you do whatever you need to do to keep you healthy and happy...the baby will be fine and happy and healthy.
149. Amy said:
So I was thrilled to be reading such positive comments, and then I saw the one that called Leta an ugly baby. I was (sort of surprisingly) shocked and enraged and even went rooting through the archives to confirm that her bright eyes and gorgeous smile were there from day one. CONFIRMED. Leta has been stunning from the beginning, and I think the sib is lucky to have such a spunky older sister! Much love from cyber-land, thanks for reminding me that sane people do live in Utah. I spent the first 18 years of my life there, and am still recovering... hahaha.. true, though.
150. Robin said:
I took Prozac when I was pregnant with my daughter (she's a week younger than Leta). She turned out fine. My doc pointed out that, out of all the SSRIs, Prozac's the one that has a generation of adults whose mothers took it while pregnant. The studies have been good.It's a hell of a lot better than The Crazy!
For panic and anxiety, I was given prescription-strength antihistamines. Much safer than Valium, Klonopin, and the other assorted drugs I crumble into my coffee every morning.
151. Jill said:
First off - big 'ol virtual group hug to all the love in this room!
Second, I have a legitimate question that I hope you can answer. Did you remain on the same dosage as before you conceived, or did you doctor recommend you lower it (if applicable)? I'm newly pregnant myself and have been taking lexapro for a few years. I was on the maximum dosage but decreased it to about half once I learned I was pregnant. Since then I have been such a huge bitch that I don't even like to be around myself. I know there is a hormonal aspect to my moods, but the lexapro has to be a factor. I'll have another convo with my shrink but I'm just curious as to the consensus. I hate feeling this way and miss the old apathetic version of myself.
ReCaptcha: highly joyful. This is both right and wrong on so many levels!
152. Pretty Lush said:
I kept on my anti-depressants as well, during my pregnancy. Worst side effect? Craving ice cream by the metric ton.
Best of luck to you and your lovely bump.
153. Anonymous said:
You know, if not for antidepressants, I'm not sure I would have made it through this year. This is my first major depressive episode, but I tell you something: if it's better for me to stay on the Lex whenever I'm pregnant, I will. I want to be there for my baby, in a sane, healthy, strong-enough-for-first-child sort of way.
What I mean to say is, thank you.
154. Elda said:
It's weird that you posted your first "bump watch" picture today -- when I was going through your archives and seeing Leta's "bump watch" pictures.
Your belly is perfectly adorable. I had the slightest hint of a bump for the first six months of pregnancy and then out of nowhere, BAM baby moved in.
I'm glad that you are standing up for yourself and for the many mothers out there that are going through the same or similar situation. It'll be fun to watch your pregnancy progress.
155. Shauna said:
Heather - first, congratulations!! I am so happy for you and your family!
second, thank you so much for the cute bump watch picture!! I wish I didn't have a 30-week bump, as I am not even pregnant!! And THANK YOU so much for your candidness and information on medications and pregnancy. My sister-in-law were JUST wondering this, it's nice to have someone to relate to.
HUGS from Oregon!
Shauna
lemon drop studio
156. Anonymous said:
Every time I leave a comment here (which isn't that often, admittedly), someone comes and leaves a mean, hurtful comment on my autistic son's blog. So I am DONE commenting but I just want to say good luck with your pregnancy. AND you have some strange, mean readers! But you already knew that I guess.
157. Stephanie said:
I like the bump. I have one, too. But, sadly... no baby.
158. Orange Tangerine said:
You know what I call women who can get through a pregnancy without medication? LUCKY. I can't relate at all. My son and I might both not have survived if I hadn't taken meds while pregnant. And I would have survived the migraines, but pregnancy was decidedly less miserable with prescription headache medicine than without.
You know what I call a baby who gets gestated inside a medication-riddled womb--but then is born into a loving home with running water, electricity, and access to health care? LUCKY.
159. Lisa Guidarini said:
Bless you and your baby bump. By the time I was as far along as you I could have fit sextuplets in my bump. You are lookin' fine, girl!
Here's to no more morning sickness soon. Sending all good karma.
160. HeyJoe said:
Hey I have a bump too! But mine is from pizza and not from Jon sticking his dick in me, alas. I mean thank God!
161. repliderium.com said:
THAT'S A BABY BUMP? I'm bigger after a soft taco night in front of the TV!
As for the meds/critics- unless they have M.D. after their name, fuck 'em! (and if they DO have M.D after their name, let them know that you're no longer taking on any new doctors,it'll be familiar territory for them.)
162. Angelbee said:
We have a saying around my work...
Chickens.
Fuck 'em.
It involves a really funny story about a vegetarian who had been a vegetarian for about 20 years and one day a friend of mine was having lunch with him. During said lunch he was eating chicken, so my friend was like "What are you doing? You're a vegetarian!"
And he goes "I woke up this morning and thought...chickens, fuck 'em."
So now we say that all the time. It's what I would say to anyone that disagrees with the choices that you make for your own body and child. :)
163. Melissa said:
I know 2 people that stayed on prozac, and for good reason. They had the crazy too. They had wonderful pregnancies, and no PPD.
Unfortunately one of them went off after she stopped breastfeeding and I have been getting the crazy calls about how her kids are her life, she hates her husband, she is starting to feel uncomfortable etc. All in the middle of the night. SHE needs to get back on.
I DO agree with the valium because its a benzo, but good luck on the withdrawals. I am on benzos myself, and I CERTAINLY feel the withdrawals when I am even a little late taking them. Not pregnant<<< = But I cant take the anti-d's either because they have the opposite effect for some reason. I go from the crazy to suicidal (SERIOUSLY).
No worries on the baby though!
164. Kelly said:
I am 15 weeks pregnant with my first child and taking Zoloft for anxiety. My doc said it was cool and I am so much better than I used to be that I don't even want to try going off of it. Good for you for putting the word out. Most of my friends know I'm on it but I kind of want to write it on my blog now. BTW, I put a picture of my dog up with a pregnancy test on his snout to announce I was pregnant too!
165. Screw the haters said:
I have to admit that I cried for a while when I found out you were pregnant again. I want a second very very baly and it's looking more and more like that's not in the cards for us. It seems like all the women at my office are knocked up and now you! Despite being more than a little jealous, I couldn't be happier for you. I'm glad that another couple has a very wanted and loved baby coming into their lives.
Happy parents raise happy children. Whatever you need to do get yourself there in a healthy way- you need not explain to anyone.
166. Michelle said:
Aw, what a cute bump! I was fully in maternity clothes by 10 weeks with my second pregnancy. And we were so relieved to see only one little bean on the ultrasound!
I took my antidepressant all throughout my pregnancy and everything was fine. You have to do what you have to do to keep yourself happy and sane, and if anyone tells you that you're wrong for taking the meds that your doctor said to keep taking, I would like to invite them to experience depression and see what they would do in that situation (I like comment 129). Cheers!
167. Anonymous said:
I really really hate to add a slightly different note to the barrage of positivity, but it is very weird to a European reader such as myself to read about all these drugs. Prozac, Wellbutrin, Zoloft - antidepressants are very rarely prescribed to anybody in a national health service before you get sectioned and not necessarily if you do. I had a nervous breakdown five years ago during which I was perpetually suicidal and was never once offered drugs and I am glad that I was forced to rehabilitate without developing a substance dependence. Oh, and since we're not 'customers' who pay our doctor's wages you can't just shop around until you find a doc who will. 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. Blah, by all means ignore me - it's honestly just a bit odd.
168. tlh said:
YOU ROCK, that's it, YOU ARE A ROCKSTAR!!! don't let anyone get u down about taking med.'s. taking prozac keeps u heathly and a healthy mom makes a healthy baby. sounds so corny but i wish i had a cool friend just like u. xoxo
169. Anonymous said:
Heather, I've worried about having a baby because I fear going off of the Cymbalta that controls my IBS. I'm so happy to hear that it may be okay ... and congrats to you for taking care of yourself.
170. Angel said:
You have to do what is safe for you and that sweet baby. I'm glad you're able to stay on that. I know what you're going through. I struggled with the decision to stay on my Zoloft and my asthma medicine while pregnant. My doctors all said that a healthy and happy mom is much better than the alternative if I went off the medicines.
I'm really thrilled for all of you about the new baby. I can't wait to see photos.
I know you've heard it all before about what to do about morning sickness, so the only thing I'll say about that is that Preggy Pops were my lifesaver. I had horrible morning/day/night sickness and they were the only thing that could help me not puke all damn day. I don't know if you've tried them or not, but they're not expensive and hell, if they help you, they're well worth it.
Take care of yourself.
171. Jenae said:
I think that it is totally up to you and your family to make the decisions on how to manage your pregnancy or anything else for that matter, and what ever the decision is, it will be a wonderful decision because its what makes you feel right. And it's no one else's opinion that matters.
thanks for helping people feel ok with having different opinions than others.
172. chris said:
Thank you for, once again, putting yourself out there and saying what a lot of people may not be comfortable hearing. The subject of staying on happy pills while pregnant has been weighing heavily on my mind for months, and your post makes me feel so much better about choosing the path that's safest for me. In other words, staying on the damn meds. Seriously, thank you. Also? You look amazing!
173. sarah said:
I have 5 year old twins - you would have been fine - though it has taken a decent dose of celexa to maintain my sanity! Literally.
Thanks for your post. You've validated my postpartum depression and subsequent depression (and of course I was probably depressed pre-kids) once again. Thank you doesn't feel like enough, but thank you anyway.
174. Krista said:
Wow. Awful morning sickness, well all day sickness. Check. Debilitating PPD. Check. You and I have tons in common Mrs. Armstrong. I agree wholeheartedly with your decision to remain on Prozac. Not that you need my approval. LOL :) I felt incredible after delivering my second daughter because I remained on my meds as well. It's an absolute necessity.
The bump is SO cute! Good to see there's only one swimming around in there. Hmmmmm, maybe the second is wearing an invisibility cloak OR better yet maybe there are THREE! J/K. Enjoy your pregnancy! You look wonderful!!!!
www.twistedbranchestoo.blogspot.com
175. gretchie said:
Ya know, I wear regular clothes bigger than your maternity clothes!! If you're carrying twins, I'm carrying a four year old child.
People love to judge and criticize. Here's what I think: I think your children will get to spend far more quality time with you if you take prozac right now. Also, kids find the visitors ward of the psychiatric hospital kinda creepy, so you are indeed doing them a big favor. While I'm at it being opinionated, I also think maternity clothes should be for you know, maternal types. That includes women whose children were already born. Why can't we continue to be proud of our bulging bellies after child birth???? That was the one nice thing about pregnancy, I could wear clothes that accentuated my belly. Yay!!
Have a fun pregnancy. Enjoy what you can of it!!
176. Anna Hj said:
Yay! Babies!
I wish you all the best, and when it comes out I'll have a pair of booties knitted for he/she/creature. I still have some time to learn socks... =)
-Anna
177. Peggy said:
I don't know - looks to me like you ate twelve meals yesterday!
JK! Love it!
178. MP said:
I did go off my meds when pregnant and whoa boy was that a bad idea. By 7 months I was begging for it back and pretty far gone.
OH, and I puked for 40 weeks. Morning, afternoon and evening sickness. I tried every remedy. The only thing that worked was unisom 3 times a day. (Yes, I know - no Zoloft but I'll pop Unisom by the fistful.) But guess what, if you take a sleeping pill 3 times a day you sleep NON STOP. So that didn't last so long with the job and responsibilities and all and back came the puking.
179. Kelsey said:
I'm so happy to see the bump! You look beautiful.
Not that it matters, but I think your decision to remain on Prozac is a very wise one. If your doctors say it won't harm the baby, then that's what matters. I'm sure your stable mood is much healthier than if you were depressed and anxious during the pregnancy.
I'm 20 and I've been dealing with depression for 5 years and your blog has made me realize that it is nothing to be embarrassed about. I've stopped being hesitant to share my story with others with similar problems, and I feel much happier.
180. right brained gal said:
Thank you, thank you, thank you. I have recently experienced someone close to my family and loved ones who committed suicide the day before Thanksgiving. It came out of nowhere. As someone who has been on anti-depressants off and on for years, please people, get help when you need it. At least fifty people's lives will never be the same because someone was too proud to get help when he needed it.
You have no idea how cunning and baffling depression is, and how it can convince you that life is worse than it really is.
Thank you Heather, for all that you have done to make everyone aware, that depression is something to take very seriously.
181. Sue said:
Hells yeah! Nicely put.
I appreciate that you're doing the 2nd-baby-after-PPD thing because I'm secretly hoping I can do it too, without ending up divorced and on the street corner shooting heroin into my eyeballs because they took my first child away.
So... keep writing! The reproductive future of others MAY DEPEND ON YOU.
Oh yeah, no pressure or noffin'. :D
182. Annie Heckenberger said:
W00t good news and a great excuse to eat your way through the holidays;) Enjoy those cookies!
183. Beth said:
Congratulations on the pregnancy! I took and still take a low dose chemo for Crohn's while pregnant with my lab produced twins. I also couldn't breastfeed because of it but it keeps me from being really sick so screw the people who don't understand. Oh and what bump???
184. Christina said:
f'um - because those that would have the nerve to make such terrible comments obviously fall into two categories. Idiots and super idiots. Whom have probably never suffered from depression or watched a loved one suffer from depression. Much less the audacity of those that don't even have children but alas' feel that they have expert opinions to offer up on the subject...
185. Amanda said:
Yay for you and your bump! What everyone has said about showing earlier with your second pregnancy is exactly what I experienced, as well. I have three daughters, and with my third, I was ready for the maternity pants at about 8 weeks.
As for the meds, you are so right to trust your doctors. I have experienced depression on and off since I was in college (I'm 33 now), and never got it treated until my last pregnancy. You know, I didn't really know what was wrong, I thought I could handle it myself, I didn't want people to know I was crazy, etc., etc. After my middle daughter was born (she's a few months younger than Leta), the PPD was really bad. When I got pregnant the last time, things were worse than ever before. I would wake up in the morning crying. After telling my OBGYN, having her refer me to my general practitioner, having him refer me to counselors who weren't covered by my insurance, and a wait of a couple of weeks, I was finally prescribed Zoloft, and oh. my. god. it made such a difference. By the third day, I started to feel like I could actually function again. Throughout the pregnancy, though, I worried about the effects on the baby, in spite of the assurances of my doctors. I can happily report that she is healthy, happy, and altogether wonderful, with no developmental delays. She will turn a year old this Sunday, and I will be giving thanks for the Zoloft. Maybe I should've made that the theme of the party. ;-)
186. Lisa said:
Really love your masthead.
Love the outer calm you exude as well, especially since I feel the inner storm brewing. Hang in there. Oh, and thanks for rearing good citizens in your part of the country.
187. Sasha said:
Aww, look at the bump! Mine did that at 12 weeks too. My OB also assured me that there was in fact only ONE.
I'm type II Bipolar, so functioning in society without meds is a gamble for me.
I stayed on Zoloft and Abilify for my first trimester, but I dropped the Lorazipam (it's a Cat. D) For my second trimester I dropped both of them because I was still afraid. I was okay for a couple months, but I went back on the Zoloft for the last trimester, and we'll be reassessing the Abilify on a need vs. breasfeeding basis.
James has thus far grown big and strong and healthy, passed all his screens with flying colors.
And FYI: you're the reason I didn't cold-turkey everything the second I got a + Thank you. I don't think I could have made it this far without my meds, even as sketchy as I was about them. Post-partum scares the hell out of me and every time I think "Oh but, I should be able to do it alone!" I just remind myself about what happened to you and swallow the damn pill.
188. love hating dooce said:
oh lord- so youve decided to spawn again!?! geez-- isnt one funny looking kid enuff? i dont get it. your husband is so adorable- and youre so ugly-why would he pick you? i truly dont get it. nor do i get the african american lips your kids got. but i gotta admit- its fun reading about what you write cause it makes us all feel better that we're not you! we actually feel bad for you that you need all this attention that you gotta write about all these things in your life. doesnt jon pay enough attention to you? truly we dont get it. we say we do. we congratulate you and say that we think youre all cool and stuff. but we laugh behind your back. and not with you...
189. Anonymous said:
Heather, kudos to you for this post. As a a fellow mom who had PPD after her 1st baby and chose to stay on Prozac for pregnancy #2 (against the "advice" of "experts" such as in-laws and people on the street), I think you are doing other women in this position a great service by "coming out" about your decision. I now have a healthy, happy 2 year old son and there is not a day that goes by that I don't thank god I made the decision to stay on Prozac during that pregnancy. My doctors who supervised me closely during the pregnancy feel the same way and wish more women would be comfortable making this decision. Someone named Lydia above wrote "Prozac and pregnancy don't sound like a good combination." Until you have been in this position yourself, until you have done the research and spoken to the best doctors, you can not say such a thing. Most moms who have taken Prozac during pregnancy- myself included- would confirm that, in fact, untreated depression and pregnancy don't go well together. They have healthy and happy children to prove they made the right choice.
Again, Heather, congratulations and all the best for a smooth and easy pregnancy.
190. ks said:
You know what, sometimes you've just got to do what you have to do. And if Prozac keeps you from being all crazy and allows you to have an actual life and be a wife and mother and sane, then keep taking it. The docs say it's fine and everyone else who feels they need to tell you what to do can kiss my fat ass (which I'm sure is much fatter and at least as white as yours).
And as to the bump, I'm three years past my second child and your 12 week bump is much smaller than my three years post partum bump. I've looked perpetually 4-5 months pregnant and I can't make it go away. It isn't even remotely fair.
Good luck with all this, though.
191. peggy said:
H-
Congrats, and don't you just love the delete key? So easy to get rid of the P.I.T.A.'s.
192. kerry said:
you still look skinny to me, which i'm intensely jealous about because i was huge with both my pregnancies, and pretty early on, too.
i wish you all the best and hope the morning sickness is near an end.
193. not supergirl said:
For what it's worth, I'm one more person who is with you. I needed to stay on a-d med through my second pregnancy. I did it, and I'm not sorry. Did I second guess myself? Why yes, yes I did. In fact, I frequently wondered if Nora's colic was a direct result. But, I can assure you that I was a much better mother for it all. So, if we're talking just about the baby (who is this awesome 5 year-old now, by the way), it was in her best interests. And if we're talking about me - which I am! - then yep, correct decision for me.
194. Laura said:
Thank you for being so open with us. I only had PPD that I am now over, but knowing that you will be open with us regarding your issues with depression makes me very happy and hopeful. I'm debating having another child at all, it was that bad, and seeing you go through this again really makes me think that I can as well. Some people may cause you grief regarding your choices, but I consider myself very lucky that you still put yourself out there for the rest of us.
195. dawn said:
re bump: awwww!
re prozac: fuck the haters!
that is all, we now return you to your regularly scheduled programming.
196. Peggy said:
You look so pretty even if you feel like crap! Do whatever the Dr. says. It your business and no one elses. Well, except for Jon.
Good luck, best wishes and everything good to you!
197. Adrienne said:
Congratulations on your pregnancy! I also think that babies do better when their moms aren't going through PPD.
198. LindzML said:
Congratulations on your baby as well as your decision concerning medication. I can't imagine putting myself out there the way you have and I have a great deal of respect for you for doing so. The fact that you can handle the criticism shows just how capable you are of being a good mother, much more than people that are too busy critiquing to pay attention to or choose not to judge their own children.
199. Jannie said:
Just Googled "prozac pregnancy" for the first time in my life. Seems some studies cite "probable structural abnormalities" for these babies, other studies are "inconclusive." (I'm sure you've forgotten more about all this than I'll ever know.)
Myself, having never suffered a depression that lasted longer than an hour, I have no idea of the probable hell it could be, so I guess it must be a matter of balancing your health and well-being with your baby's, which for any concerned parent has to be an excrutiating call.
Best of luck with your joyful bump! I'm sure things will go great.
200. panic attacks said:
Wait - hold on - you don't like unsolicited parenting advice from random arrogant strangers? What's wrong with you woman?
Haha.
Great post!
201. Jen said:
EF YOU #188! Why even waste your time if all your gonna do is spew vile jealousy? Blurbodoocery is 110% way more awesome than you and her kids are smart and beautiful.
I guess it's NOT wasting time for you as you are a waste yourself #188.
Heather, Jon, Leta, Chuck, Coco and baby Armstrong rock!!! Yea for honest bloggers that never back down and hide behind internet curtains!!
202. jen said:
you're beautiful! thank you for sharing your life with all of us.
203. Heather said:
You rock, lady.
And?
My belly popped out as soon as a + showed up on that pregnancy test. WAY OUT.
204. Becca said:
that sonogram looks amazing... best of luck with your pregnancy! I'm glad you made your own decision for you and your baby, that's what a mom does, after all :)
205. Jennifer said:
You are so exactly right to take care of yourself. I'd say so much more but instead will just note that this is a check mark on the side that says Dooce has her shit together.
206. natalie said:
*applause*
207. Katy said:
Oh Dooce-a-moose, Once again- your timing is impeccable.
Just this very morning I sat down in my OBGYN's office and bawled for about an hour, because I went off my meds two months ago when I found out I was pregnant. Against my better judgement and mostly because of my Soon to be husband's absolute insistence that my sanity pills would make our baby disformed and stupid. As I feared I have been a COMPLETE AND UTTER DISASTER ever since. True Story.
She very lovingly handed me enough tissues to bury an elephant and listened through my phlegm-ridden garbles about how completely incapable I am of functioning with pregnancy hormones, anxiety, and depression. And like the angel of mercy that she is- handed me back my subscription, and the number of a couple's therapist.
I then came home, threw up, napped, and found solace on this beautiful blog of yours. Thank you for being stronger then I am. Thank you for helping me realize it is okay to need this for myself, and my little gut monkey. This is my first pregnancy and I don't see myself getting to the part of this gestation where I get to squeeze a kid out without them. You may not be Heath Ledger on my doorstep with daffodils and a meatball sub- but today you are my Knight in shining armor. I wish I had friends like you to confide in, instead of quasi-functioning idiots telling me I'm already failing as a mother for needing this extra boost of synthetic stability. Thank You. Thank you. Thank you.
208. ErinM said:
You have the most beautiful eyes! And you look like a Madonna - there should be a painting of you with that look on your face. Wonderful.
209. jae said:
I weny BACK ON celexa after getting pregnant on doctor's recommendations to pre-empt another bought of post-partum psychosis. If you can't function to care for your kids, what else really matters. Your benefits outweigh the risks, like mine did. Best of luck to you.
210. C said:
**applause**!
Best wishes for a safe and happy (when possible) pregnancy.
211. Danielle said:
I don't know if anyone else mentioned this, but if there happens to be any Canadians reading this with questions about pregnancy and meds, in Toronto there is something called Motherisk, which advises women on what's a go and what's not. Word is you just call up, tell them what you're on, and they tell you what the literature and doctors have to say; I've heard good things from women who shared concerns about depression/anxiety meds regarding their advice.
For those of you living south of the healthcare border....well, I bet they'd take your call too! Long distance charges are probably less than a doctor's visit, no?
motherisk.org
212. Rebecca said:
Thank you so much for saying that! I take anti-depressants for pain management due to fibromyalgia, and I just don't tell people I am still on the meds. I didn't find out I was pregnant until I was already about 7 weeks along, and I went off cold turkey because a nurse friend of mine made me feel so guilty! IT WAS HORRIBLE. I lasted about seven days, but when I stopped sleeping more than an hour at a time, started crying all the time for no reason, and began hating the baby for doing this to me, I knew it was time to go back on the meds. And my doctors (I have 5 now overseeing this pregnancy!) all agree. They all agreed that the risks to the baby of going untreated are much higher than the risks of the medication. There isn't any 100% risk free solution. This baby's got a damaged mama, and that's just the way life is. It would be great of I could offer my baby a perfect, risk-free, pain-free life, but that's just not realistic. I would much rather choose the risk-option where I am happy and healthy and able to love and welcome by baby than the option where I am miserable and sick and wanting to kill myself because I hate the baby for doing this to me.
213. KAS said:
I love you, Heather.
After my son was born last year I've always wondered if I suffered from PPD - I went through an extreme amount of mental and emotional turmoil. This time, thanks to you, I will be much more open to expressing this concern to my doctor. Up until now I've battled with bipolar disorder I have somehow (thank god) managed to take care of without medication. However I have already been an emotional mess.
Thank you so much for being you, Heather, and for always being gorgeous in so many ways. You are an inspiration for hundreds, if not thousands, of women, and you're using your powers for good. :D
PS I would give anything to look like you right now - instead I am FAT all the time. Because I am fat. XD YOU LOOK AMAZING.
214. Rena said:
Your baby bump is adorable!
215. Jessica said:
ahh cute baby bump.
I stayed on anti depressants with my second child and had no baby blues and didn't lay in bed doing nothing for months.. I figure a healthy happy mama is better than a mama who can't take care of them!!
Lots of people pour booze, drugs, and nicotine on their baby before knowing they're pregnant and they come out fine, this is no different. If anything you'll have a mellow happy baby from the happy drugs!! jk :-)
216. The niffer said:
Woo. Coping and mental health is so underrated.
I'm so excited for you and your family.
217. Mab said:
You have my support, 100%. Thanks for answering my question.
I can't wait to see your new baby! Your baby bump is adorable. Mine's bigger, and I'm not pregnant. *smile*
218. Lisa said:
Grow baby, grow!!
Congratulations on the pregnancy. Keep your chin up, it will all work out.
219. Rachel said:
Glad to hear that you've made the right decision for you! And, tell all the haters to go to hell.
220. KAS said:
PS #188 - WHAT THE HELL. Yet another bastardfaced "anon" commenter - who is obviously too worried about the backlash of the multitude of Dooce supporters who would remind you time and time again of how WRONG you are - who can't get the balls to post a way to contact them or even their goddamn name.
Only a couple of hateful, negative, godforsaken STUPID things amongst over 200 comments.. Damn straight, Internet. More proof that we love you, Dooce. <3
221. jenn said:
Cutest little bump ever! Congratulations!
222. Stacy said:
A bump and bean all in the same post.
I can't have anymore kids and that was our my choice. We wanted one and that's what we have. For years I've been listening to people tell how terrible I am of depriving my son of a sibling.Initally I was offended by it, but now I look those people square in the eye and tell them to kiss my ass. They're not the ones taking care of my son or paying the bills associated to him, we are. Ironically a majority of the people that have said these things to me do not have children. They are DINKS ( double income, no kids) that apparently have nothing else better to do except to give parental advice to people that actually have children.
Don't let a bunch of freaks with too much time on their hands get on your nerves. You don't need me to tell you that, but it's those types of people that should be in bed by no later than 8 pm as they turn into nasty gremlins at 8:30.
I hope you're feeling better today despite what the trolls and gremlims have deposited in your inbox.
223. Homebody at Heart said:
It is very brave of you to share your life with us. I'm sure a large part of what you share with us is to help others in similar situations so they will not feel alone and to de-stigmatize mental health issues. As for the crazy haters, maybe they just don't realize yet that they need to go get some medication...
And, congratulations!
224. Anonymous said:
I've been having thoughts lately of how much of a freak I am when I'm depressed - how could I ever consider being married or having children?
So thanks for reminding me that we don't have to be normal to be in a relationship or even to raise well-rounded kids. Just stay on the meds and just maybe it will be okay. :o)
225. Jennifer Suarez said:
The bump looks adorable. I too showed so much faster with baby #2 so I think it's pretty normal.
As far as the prozac, I'm so happy to see someone that can say "I don't care if you think this is wrong, I think it's fine so STFU" I love that about you.
Best of luck to you and your prozac addicted baby (SARCASM on the addicted part for those too slow to realize that)
226. Melissa said:
Umm- don't worry about your bump- its cute! You're cute too!
Look, some women wish they looked like that on regular,non-pregnant days! Its going to be all right Doocester
227. grumbles said:
according to your bumpometer i've been about 12 weeks pregnant for the last 3 years!
no, you look great, and congratulations! despite all the crazies out there with their own opinion you have a great family and are a great mom.
my sister-in-law gave birth last sunday to a perfectly healthy baby girl after taking prozac throughout, so no worries.
228. Shannon said:
Just another person who took Prozac while pregnant. Normal pregnancy, normal baby, no regrets. And my doctor never hesitated one second before telling me it was very safe to take while pregnant and in fact, the best of that type of medication to be taking while pregnant and I should not worry about it.
229. Carolina said:
Heather, congrats. This is such wonderful news. And it's great you're on the drugs... I had a foetal health specialist look after me during my pregnancy and he reassured me that millions of women need to continue medication during pregnancy, for many life-saving reasons. After the first doctors who said I couldn't continue the pregnancy because I was on lithium when I conceived, I was a wreck. Then I got good advice. And a perfect, scarily well-adjusted, bonny son. So excited about following your pregnancy. You're an inspiration.
230. Natalie said:
You're adorable! And I see no bump whatsoever, in either picture. Crazy!
Neurontin? Do you get migraines? I was put on it by my neurologist, it definitely had some interesting side effects!
Good luck to you, you certainly know what you're doing and to hell with everyone else!
231. Audra said:
I don't usually comment but I wanted to on this. First congrats on the pregnancy. Second, I took Prozac with my second pregnancy. After nearly going completely out of my mind after the birth of my first child my Dr thought it unwise to risk me undedicated and loose in society I assume. My second child is the sweetest, most loving, smartest, beautiful little boy I could have dreamed of. Am I bias? Of course not. But the facts are that he has the speech of a four year old at just under three and uses words that I rarely hear my five year old use.
That isn't to say there weren't side effects to taking Prozac, he did have mild withdrawal in the hospital that although was harmless to him scared the shit out of me and would have been nice to be forewarned about. He is also more susceptible to any kind of lung ailment that is going around but that could also be due to the RSV he got at 5 weeks old and not the prozac.
All in all I think that it is better that I was on the Prozac then off. It would have sucked having the baby in jail because I killed someone or worse not having him at all because I killed myself. Sorry to write a book but that is my story with Prozac and pregnancy.
232. Beth at I Should Be Folding Laundry said:
I lost twin sons last February and have been on Prozac ever since. I do plan to get pregnant again very soon and both of my doctors have told me staying on Prozac is just fine. Although nervous about it, I know it's what I need to do. Thank you for helping me more comfortable in my decision.
Best of luck to you during this pregnancy and always.
233. mel said:
Ugh, like others, I love your baby bump. And have one that looks the same, but NO BABY IN THERE.
Lol....
You look great!
234. Sharon said:
I think it's wonderful that you are prepared to do what is best for you during your pregnancy, and to hell with all the 'know-it-alls' out there who think they have the right to dictate what you and your body need. These people are probably the same ones that tell you you don't need Prozac, you should just 'get over it' and can cure yourself with yoga!! Both of your children will have nothing but admiration for you when they grow up.
235. chere said:
Heather and baby Dooce, you look so sweet.
The internet is a wonderful thing but sometimes there
are too many opinions. And it takes courage to live your
own life - especially being so exposed.
I get tired of my own opinions on occasion.
So whatever you do, it's perfect.
btw, when you go long periods with no posts - we worry.
I have a life, but you're part of my morning routine.
236. Jane said:
You go sister. Thanks. And, congratulations on your expanding family.
237. Jessica said:
Because your experience with PPD struck fear into my chronically depressive li'l heart, I took Prozac throughout my pregnancy with my doctor's blessing.
My little pumpkin pie turned out perfect, thank you very much.
The entire post-partum period has passed in a blur of sleep deprivation and delirium and joy and even tears, but no hopelessness, no despair, no fear. I love Prozac.
And I appreciate ya, pal.
238. Jen said:
People who would crap on you for that are probably smoking a pack a day and drinking every week while pregnant so who cares about them. I think you're making a good decision because you're a mom to two now so you need to take care of YOU before you can think about taking care of THEM. :)
Yay for baby #2!!!
239. Vee said:
Well.
I had one, no problems, could even lay on my tummy. He was my nightmare later.
The second, would sucker punch me in my sleep, Shes my angel. Go figure. The things we do for love..
129600. HDC said:
I second the hope it's a boy comment! I do not however second the jealous part. OMG, so not jealous. One is all I have the capacity for. You guys are better people than I.
Best of luck to the whole clan!
240. tracey said:
1. you look awesome.
2. you're a grown ass, educated woman - don't let people's opinions on your health care bother you.
241. Keagansmom said:
you are my idol. Rock on.
and congrats again.
(I can balance things on my head-will you adopt me?)
242. Trinity said:
Thank you Heather.
243. Carolyn said:
Congrats on the bump and for staying on the 'zac. I'll warn you that it may result in a child that knows far too many words for her age...ours frightens us sometimes. (This after the OB I fired told me the baby might be born floppy...this baby that hasn't been floppy for a moment of her 18 months).
244. kelli said:
I would not wish twins on anyone, and i'm a twin, an identical one at that. I wouldn't even wish them on my worst enemy because, hell that would mean that their would be two kids that would turn out as ignorant and assholeish as thier parents.
Congrats to both you and Jon on the pregnancy.
245. anna said:
My son is 1 part chicken mcnugget, 1 part diet coke, and 1 part Lexapro. He's healthy, giant, and very happy. Don't worry about the meds, take care of yourself, and soon you'll have a healthy and happy baby too.
246. Toni said:
Y'know, the reason your bump is...bumpier? He or she has an eee PC in there, and they have started their own blog. Beware what you say about the bump & easy on those burritos. (Also, you may want to google those baby names you and Jon are tossin' around...you may end up hitting on a eerily familiar-looking sonogram!)
:-D
p.s. hope your morning/afternoon/evening/all-the-time sickness subsides soon. nothing worked for me when i was pregnant...even my shampoo made me vomit...ewwww. but i heard, back in the day, doctors advised women to drink cola syrup...I wonder if it was when they still put cocaine in it? :-D LOLOLOLOL
247. Shaun said:
You look BEAUTIFUL! Why is it that your 12 week bump is my dream. My bump is a 6 month and I am not even pregnant.
I hope the icky people out there will mind there own business regarding your medical choices. On the other hand, it could be fun to read your rebuttals.
All will be well and you are going to have a beautiful healthy baby. Are you going to find out if it is a boy or a girl?
Shaun
248. Toni said:
Y'know, the reason your bump is...bumpier? He or she has an eee PC in there, and they have started their own blog. Beware what you say about the bump & easy on those burritos. (Also, you may want to google those baby names you and Jon are tossin' around...you may end up hitting on a eerily familiar-looking sonogram!)
:-D
p.s. hope your morning/afternoon/evening/all-the-time sickness subsides soon. nothing worked for me when i was pregnant...even my shampoo made me vomit...ewwww. but i heard, back in the day, doctors advised women to drink cola syrup...I wonder if it was when they still put cocaine in it? :-D LOLOLOLOL
249. Sara said:
Heather, I know it's only a matter of time till someone rides your ass about the Prozac, but I hope to God that it doesn't make you second guess your decision, not even a little bit. I have lived with a chronic disease for almost 6 years, one that is extremely painful, sometimes debilitating, and life threatening if left untreated. My husband and I have started planning to have kids, and I am not even pregnant yet, but I'm already getting guilt trips about being on drugs while attempting to conceive. LIFE-SAVING drugs. Which have been shown to be perfectly safe for fetuses, by the way. Have I mentioned that these Dear Abbys are disgustingly healthy and have never ever dealt with extreme physical anguish?
What I am trying to say is, for people who are determined to focus on the worst in life, your best efforts will never be enough. You know what's best for you, you know what it's like to be in your own shoes, and no one could possibly love that child more than you and Jon. So rock on, woman, and tell any would-be critics to suck on it.
250. Lexi said:
I think you are awesome and I love that you are so honest about being on medication during pregnancy. I am on Zoloft and I often wonder if I'll be able to remain on it during pregnancy. So thanks for the post. You look great :)
251. Sensibly Sassy said:
Thanks for dealing with the psycho wack jobs in the name of other women that need a voice. I know it's not easy to read the anon's and their mean words, but you are doing it for people that really appreciate it.
252. faydean said:
I absolutely can not believe that first photo is of a woman who is having her second kid! What genes does one need to have that tummy after having the first kid?!
Mine, um, didn't look like that before my second. We won't even venture NEAR what it looks like now. Thanks genes of short, hippy Southern women (mine, not yours...OBVIOUSLY).
Maternity pants? Yeah, right. You just bought a size medium yoga pants didn't ya and called it a day, LOL.
Keep on truckin lady...and poppin your happy pills. Married to a doc, so trust what they told ya and would have done the same if I'd been in the same situation.
253. Lisa C. said:
You are so awesome! You look great too. My sister went off her meds when she was trying to conceive and it was really hard on her. She would have so benefitted from having your blog to read.
254. Katie Carman said:
Right on Heather! Screw all those haters!
Additionally - thank you for being an awesome mommy role model. It's nice to know that if I do ever fall off the deep end and decide to have a kid that I can still stay awesome (yes, non-child bearers read (and love) your website!!)
243648. keagansmom said:
Wow.
Re: #188
I think you, "lovehatingdooce" really really really need a hug. From whence does all this venom spew forth?
I am sending you positive vibes and virtual kisses.
I do have a question though: Why do you keep reading Heather's blog if you don't like it? And please do not presume, with your "we" statements, that you speak for me or anyone else who reads Dooce. I read because I like Heather's writing style, I think she is funny, and I think both she and Jon are easy on the eyes, and Leta and the dogs are cute.
Why do you read?
Lots of love to you!
255. uncouthheathen said:
Congratulations on this new adventure! I started reading when you were pregnant with Leta and I'm excited to follow along as you go at it again. My gay lady and I are planning on having kids soon, so I'm in it for all the gory, horrible details of pregnancy to prepare me for what is to come. Yes, please.
256. Becca said:
I actually INCREASED my dosage of anti-d's (happy pills) while pregnant, with the approval of my OB, in order to pre-empt post partum AND because -- and I had not thought of this -- when pregnant you have almost twice the blood volume in your body so the meds get "watered down" and absorbed more slowly gby your brain. Made sense to me and I had a great pregnancy and no post partum and a happy, contented baby
257. icandyapple said:
Best cure for morning sickness. . . um. . . delivery (ba dum bum!). We cannot help ourselves wanting to share our suffering here, so buck up, you are going to keep getting suggestions for morning sickness cures. They had to give me Zofran, a medication used for keeping chemo therapy patients from wasting away to nothing from the nausea. That medication was the only thing that got me through the 9 months of losing (yes like you, losing weight) 25 lbs! the first time and then finally being given this medication the second time and having a bearable pregnancy (not fantasitic or enjoyable, but at least not debilitating).
258. Rachel said:
Why do people always feel the need to judge others' childrearing? They should mind their own fucking business! Congratulations on your pregnancy, and congratulations on doing what's necessary to keep yourself functioning. Screw the haters.
259. Lauren said:
Heather,
Thank you for sharing this. I was actually sitting on the bus coming home from work today and I realized that finally, in the last year and a half, I have found the right medication and the right dosage that is allowing me to live my life. That medication happens to be Prozac.
I've always worried about passing on the crazy, or just descending into it, when I do eventually start my own family. Your story and your successes have given me hope that everything will work out. Thanks.
Lauren
260. Danielle said:
People with negative opinions are SO freaking annoying.
You keep doing what is best for you and you're baby will be great!!
Good Luck!!
149040. Heather-in-Australia said:
Oh I do too Amity, hee :)!!
261. onionhead said:
Prozac, Schmozac, you're doing fine, the baby is beautiful, you're a fine mom, everything's going to be okay. Especially when the pukey part stops.
262. Kim Harris said:
Good on you, Heather, for making the best decision for your health, and by that, the best decision for your baby. I had to go off my antidepressants while pregnant as I take an uncommon one (Aurorix - I take it for anxiety) as I argue with side effects with alot of the other ones - my doctors weren't keen for me to continue to take it as there wasn't alot of use in pregnant women as yet, unlike Prozac, which is quite OK. This meant alot more management for myself and my husband, and meant my husband had to take on alot of quite a bit of stuff, and alot of weird things to avoid me getting really wound up (e.g. for some reason, buying petrol used to really freak me out).
The first couple of months after we had Sarah were very stressful, and we had a daily check-in, so I could vent, and my husband could take on anything that was stressing me. This worked really well for us as I could avoid the build up of stress, which is a big trigger for me.
Based on your posts, your depression is obviously a bigger beast than my anxiety, and I am really glad you have made the decision to do what you need to function and be the best Mom you can be!
263. Sarah said:
Been there and done that and feeling much better thanks to Zoloft. I think we can agree that the medical doctors know more about PPD/depression and that dickwads know more about dick.
Here, Dooce, I'll deflect some heat:
I had a few ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES during my pregnancy.....
so THERE, dickwads!
Congratulations on your new baby! You rock.
264. christen said:
You look great, Heather! Congratulations. I'm looking forward to reading all about this adventure.
265. Anonymous said:
#188
I would suggest not adding "we" to your retarded comments.
If you hate dooce so much stop reading you asshole.
you are a total judgemental douche bag
266. Cara said:
I'm sure you've heard this already, but I've heard that after your first pregnancy you tend to show a lot more and a lot earlier. (and by "you" I mean any pregnant woman, but of course this doesn't mean every pregnant woman. And yes, this nugget was told to me and not something I know firsthand, as I've never been preggers or did any research beyond a quick internet search, so it could be an urban myth. But there ya go).
Mazel Tov, btw!
267. EmilyTakesTokyo said:
Thanks for writing about your Prozac decision. You're right - if one woman with terrible depression Googles "prozac while pregnant" and sees this post, she might just be emboldened enough to demand the care she needs. I wrote about my miscarriages for the same reason; none of us is really alone.
268. Jen said:
I emailed you about 6 months ago thanking you for being so open about depression and medications. I feel like you just posted ANOTHER blog just for me to read. I am almost 33 years-old with a history of infertility (10 very LONG years). Long story short, there is finally hope that we will actually get pregnant after all of these years. And, I've been torturing myself on what do to about the medication I am on (Zoloft). I want to stay on it even if I do get pregnant, but have felt guilty for feeling that way, especially with our history of infertility. I have done research and talked to the doctor (my OB/GYN is the one who prescribes it). All of that to say, THANK YOU again for being so open and honest about something so personal. I don't feel so alone now. I feel like a normal person again with the medication and I have no desire to go back to the "old me".
Best wishes to you and your family! Congratulations!
269. Anonymous for this one... said:
I honestly think I NEED some meds.. I'm early early in my 2nd pregnancy... about 5 weeks... this is the first pregnancy with morning sickness.. and oh how I hate the morning sickness.. it's so horrible! I bet my husband wishes I was on something to quell the moods (i.e. crying, slamming doors) that he's getting, but he so starts it)
You look great! I wish I looked that good pregnant! And ignore all the haters!!!
270. la_florecita said:
Nice.
Also? Nice rack! (I hope to have one of those when I get pregnant one of these days.)
216432. Becca said:
To # 167: there is no "rehabilitation" from lacking a chemical in my brain that "normal" people produce in normal amounts. I cannot just "pull myself up by my bootstraps", tried it, didn't work. Think we North Americans are over-medicated if you want, but I for one would be dead without happy pills.
271. ...love Maegan said:
Your baby bump IS bigger now than before ...why do you think? age? second baby? boy? very interesting though.
My SIL stayed on Prozac while preggo and her kid is the best behaved little girl I've ever had the pleasure of spending time with. She may have smoked a bit of weed as well ;)
272. Jen said:
I read your site everyday and have only commented once before but I felt the need to after reading this post. I am also pregnant, 15 weeks as well. I have chosen to continue taking my Prozac as well. I hope that all the trolls out there can just give it a rest and understand that it's a personal decision and you made it with the help of your doctors. Good luck with the rest of your pregnancy!
273. Sandy said:
I took welbutrin through my 2nd pregnancy - it had some totally odd side effects - i was able to quit smoking, i didn't hurt myself or my child, AND it took my morning (all day) sickness away. I think I can live with my decision - so can my now 3 year old daughter.
274. Jess said:
Interesting. I have often wondered if I would continue taking my medication if I got pregnant... Not that I would just because you are, but it's good to hear about someone making a rational informed decision, based on professional advice.
Congrats, and I hope your morning sickness subsides to let you concentrate on the happy part of pregnancy. (there is one, I hear...)
275. Alyia said:
I know you'll probably never read these 'cause I'm always comment number eleventy billion, but dude: I love you. as defiantly, and as passionately, as I loved the Tiffany cover of "I Think We're Alone Now."
I wish you and your family the best. Which does not include really sad gigs at various American malls twenty years from now.
276. Julie said:
Congratulations on a healthy pregnancy. Having had PPD, I totally support your continued use of medication. It really will - AS YOU KNOW - make it all so, so much easier. You'll still be tired. But not thinking of ripping your toenails off quite as much.
277. LML said:
First, a big Congratulations!
I'm currently doing a study for my graduate program on maternal depression and its impact on child language development, and depression does have a negative influence. Just another example of how very, very much the mental health of the mama matters in all areas of a child's life, learning and health. Kudos to you for doing what you and your doctors think is best for you to stay happy and well during and after your pregnancy, despite the backlash. Your baby will do nothing but thank you for your choice :)
Best of luck battling the nausea and good wishes all around!
278. Amanda Brown said:
You are so beautiful, Heather.
279. Love to LOVE dooce said:
Have you noticed that the 'haters' ie. #188 are seriously lacking in grammar and well honestly, english in general? Seems an interesting pattern to me.
I'm not pregnant, and won't be for a while, but I have been depressed and went at it alone with no meds. Yes, I did it, but it was a medium to heavy (not DEEP) depression at worst, and it took almost 3 years. Now, anytime I start to feel it coming on, I do exactly the opposite of what my body and brain tell me to do, though it hurts me physically sometimes.
If I want to nap, I go out to stay awake. If I want to sit at home and mope, I take myself to the nearest big-box store and people gaze. If my friend calls and i want to cry because WHY WOULD I WANT TO TALK TO ANYONE?? I answer the phone.
I'm not all better, I think in order to really feel GOOD I would need couseling and likely, meds. But I would feel almost like a failure to have come as far as I have on my own just to have to resort to something else.
But like I said, my depression was relatively mild, and I had no children to look after. If I was in a different position I would absolutely do things differently. It was a struggle and continues to be a struggle today.
Thanks Dooce!
280. Soup and Song said:
Dear Mr. or Ms. "Love Hating Dooce" (#188),
First, grow a pair of balls. Second, learn how to spell and use proper punctuation. You wish that you could have one tiny fraction of the talent, skill, honesty and pure bravery that Dooce has. I'm pretty sure that right now, the only thing most of the readers of this blog are laughing at is your stupidity.
281. Kristen said:
I think you two sound like hysterical parents, and think Leta will make a hilarious big sister. The internet of the future (who knows what that will look like) anxiously awaits your splendid tales of the baby, and more instructional videos on how to make edamame.
282. Tavin said:
Heather, you rock! Okay, if you've tried the ginger and it didn't work, it didn't work. Your bump looks gorgeous!
We already know that you aren't going to let some ass get you down about the meds. Good for you! You'll give strength to other parents that are not as strong as you.
It is better for you and your baby that your brain is healthy. Some people just don't get it.
283. Olivia said:
"This wouldn't be the Internet without those lovely little cutie pies. Smooches!"
LMAO!
That made my day.
284. Jennifer said:
First off, I apologize for being one of those folks who offered unsolicited advice about the ginger / nausea thing. OF COURSE you have been through this before. And OF COURSE you have tried everything and know what works for you. So I will just say, I hope you start to feel better soon. Oh, and you still look pretty.
Secondly, your bump is cute. And you are a brave woman for writing about your depression and the decision to keep taking your medication while pregnant. Your decision to do this in order to help other women struggling with this condition and in return exposing yourself to the attacks of trolls wandering around the internets is admirable. Good for you.
285. Karen Delaney said:
Gorgeous pictures, both you and baby.
Anti-depressants are the reason I'm alive today, and when I stop taking them The Crazy is there waiting for me.
286. Lisa Pizza said:
You are making the right decision. My sister consulted Mother Risk, a program here in Ontario, about maintaining her prozac dosage through two pregnancies. They, and her doctors advised to to continue with her pills. I'm glad she did. Her two boys are exceptional.
http://www.motherisk.org/women/drugsDetail.jsp?category_id=152&title=Ant...
243649. kristi said:
You're an idiot. (Not you, Heather)
287. Brandy said:
I too am pregnant and will continue taking my Prozac. I am now 31 weeks pregnant and a mother of 3 almost 4. That's just crazy right there but with out Prozac my husband would be long gone and well I would be in an institute. :D The only warnings I have gotten were to taper down in my 3rd trimester I tried that. And it failed. So I'm still on my 80mg a day and well I love life.
288. sue said:
Damn ;-(
I look in the mirror and see more of a "baby bump" than you have and I am not pregnant. ;-)
Seriously, though... congrats on the new little life.
289. Anonymous said:
Thank you so much for this post. I went on Zoloft when my son was 11 months old. After years of depression I finally feel like the old me. He is 13 months old now, and we are TTC again. I have been seriously questioning my decision to stay on the meds, but my doctors tell me that it's fine, and better than what could happen if I wasn't on them. It means a lot to hear someone say what you did.
290. Jilleen said:
Had to laugh at your comment about twins. I have four year old twins and an 18 month old. The little one has been WAY more of a challenge than the twins ever were. We lovingly refer to him as "the little ball of hate." I hope your ONE isn't like him or you can kiss your fear of chaos good bye! I'm sure the Prozac will keep him under control. ha! Couldn't resist. Oh, and yes, you MUST have a boy because my three are all boys and I practically salivate thinking of how you would put the antics of little men into words that I cannot seem to articulate myself.
291. Anonymous said:
Congratulations, Heather. You look absolutely great. And, if I squint just so I can almost see your "bump".