Hello. I have a 4 week old little girl and am suffering from depression (on and off for years) and huge anxiety. My dr has prescribed Sertraline for me which I also took with my son when he was 9 months old.
Here is my dilemma, my anxiety is completely related to breastfeeding. I had incredible difficulty with my son when he was 9 months old. Because of a biting incident, the next time I tried to feed him my milk would not let down. This shocked me so much that every time I tried to feed him after that I could not get letdown because I was so anxious that it wouldn't work. I have done a lot of research online into that problem and could not find any information about people with similar issues. I felt very alone.
Anyway, whilst expecting my daughter I was extremely worried that I would have feeding problems again. And sure enough 4 weeks in, two nights ago I could not get a letdown in the night and had a huge panic attack.
I really really do not want to take medication as my daughter is still so young. I took one pill today and have noticed she was extremely unsettled and while tired she would not sleep for hours. I don't think this can be a coincidence even though at this age babies change all the time. I just feel so guilty about 'drugging' her. But I really do not want to bottle feed either because the cause of my anxiety is about failing at breastfeeding and having to bottle feed.
I feel completely lost and haven't a clue what to do. I know I need to feel well withing myself to be able to care for my two young children, but is taking medication the best thing for my baby. I can't cope with feeling so anxious, and think if I don't take the medication things will just spiral out of control. But I can't stop feeling guilty and wonder if the drugs will actually help my feeding problem.
Please could anyone advise, or have heard of anyone with similar issues. I really need some help in deciding what to do. Thank you.
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Antenatal/postnatal depression
sertraline and breastfeeding, please help
3 replies
sallymander · 11/10/2013 19:35
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