TTC / 39 / Anxiety Disorder

[Hannah39]

Hey. So I'm 39, been TTC #1 for a while now, had my first ever pregnancy last Oct but miscarried at around 6 weeks. I'm also on SSRI medication for a generalised anxiety disorder (have had to take these meds for the past 6 years). Just want to see if there's anyone who's in a similar boat or can offer any advice at all?! I try to remain as positive as possible as I know added stresses will be detrimental to me, but this TTC rollercoaster is really starting to get me down. Every time my period arrives I'm in a right old state again! Any help would be most appreciated x

[DaisyMay25]

Hi Hannah, I too suffer from anxiety, and depression. I mc last September at six weeks too and it completely broke me. I've been off my medication for around two years, I debate going back on because I'm the same as you and just get myself in a mess every time AF shows. My doctor said to stop putting so much pressure on myself, which I do try but my whole life revolves around TTC now. When AF arrives perhaps treat yourself to something? Doesn't have to be anything big just like a bath with a lush bath bomb or something but something to just help you relax. Fx you're not waiting much longer for your bfp.

[Hannah39]

Thanks DaisyMay25 for your message. I've aimed to come off SSRIs (Sertraline) for a long time but as soon as I lower them the anxiety becomes unbearable. I have a psychiatrist and we've discussed my medication and pregnancy in great detail and they've stated that Sertraline is the preffered drug to be on during pregnancy (if needed) so perhaps taking it might be of help to you if your anxiety & depression is particularly bad right now. I totally get the people telling you not to put pressure on yourself although it feels virtually impossible not to! Sadly it's my age that I always have in the back of my head that makes me feel the pressure! I like your idea of a treat when the AF comes, I'll give that a try today. Thank you & fingers crossed for you also xx

[qumquat]

I'm not TTC right now but I attempted to come off meds while I was and it was awful. I really recommend staying on meds when TTC and throughout pregnancy and breast feeding as the risk to you of not taking them is greater than the risk to the baby of taking them. I was back on medication through pregnancy which was fine, then attempted to give up again when bfing. Big mistake! Take care of yourselves.