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What can I expect from first consultant appointment (mental health related)

6 replies

Sophia1984 · 24/01/2016 15:20

Hi everyone,
I've got my first scan on Tuesday (12w1d) followed by a consultant appointment at the hospital. My MW referred me for consultant-led care because I have a history of anxiety. Has anyone had a similar experience?

Thanks!

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Heatherjayne1972 · 24/01/2016 21:06

A friend had anxiety related issues and was handled brilliantly by the MH team while pregnant Not so much by the midwives sadly. She was told that due to her meds she wasn't to breastfeed as the meds not good for baby and obviously to continue with the tablets. Mw ( more than one) pushed her to bf with the old 'you must - it's best for baby etc '. And refused to believe the specialist had really said not to bf She stuck to her guns tho So just be aware of that. And you should be ok

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MotherKat · 24/01/2016 21:32

You will have to relate your history of anxiety, triggers etc.
They will ask very personal questions, they will discuss medication options should you be on any, what nay happen re breastfeeding if you need a change in meds (i'm being allowed to try a diffrrent one so i can try and bf).
It's not that bad.

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limeandsoda93 · 24/01/2016 23:04

I'm under consultant care and all she did was ask how I was feeling generally and explained that I'd be having extra growth scans due to being on antidepressants. It was really laid back, made me feel much more relaxed because until then nobody had told me whether I could keep taking the medication.

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KatyN · 25/01/2016 18:30

Mine had a mental health nurse present too. Both were really supportive and we discussed how I could reduce the anxiety I felt around labour. They also discussed my medication. I always saw the consultant and never any of her 'team' which might have been part of making me feel more secure.
She also agreed to me being induced early because of the anxiety.. And allowed me an really early epidural, in fact she was amazing!!

Kx

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Sophia1984 · 25/01/2016 22:38

Thanks everyone - I feel a lot more comfortable knowing what to expect. I've had anxiety for so long (my whole life) that I sometimes think of it as normal, and worry (!) that I'm making a big deal out of nothing. I spoke to my best friend about it and she made me promise I'll ask for support - even if it's just so I have the tools to deal with anything that does come up. I'm on 20mg of Citalopram (which GP was happy for me to stay on) so will also discuss that, and whether I need to move on to something more breast-feeding friendly. Hadn't considered that they might affect growth, so will ask about that too :-)

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Sophia1984 · 28/01/2016 15:57

Hi everyone. Scan went brilliantly but consultant was a bit useless. I was obviously delighted and relieved after scan, so he kept saying 'Well you seem fine and happy to me' - as if I couldn't possibly have an anxiety disorder because I'm able to crack jokes and smile! He's not going to see me until 28 weeks, but is asking my GP to refer me for counselling. Considering I've been on waiting list for that for 4 months I don't have high hopes..