In a message dated 10/28/2004 7:15:12 AM Pacific Standard Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:


> have searched all info in archives but most is a couple of years old-what
> is most current feeling on BF with lithium, zyrexa and zoloft--Mom really
> wants to BF but is severe bipolar and cannot survive without meds, these
> are the ones she is curerntly on (7 months pregnant) and has taken to stay
> stable for last 4 years--I have shared Dr. Hale's book with her but would
> like more info if possible


Quick reintroduction as I emerge from the shadows of lurkdom.  I'm a Marriage
and Family Therapist, which was my later-in-life career.  I've been providing
breastfeeding help for 25 years, though now it is mostly through volunteer
avenues and often focused on Teen moms.  I also teach child development among
other things at a local university.

Once again we need to consider where the burden of proof lies in making a
decision in this case.  What evidence is there that either going off meds or
weaning would be advantageous for this dyad?  I recently wrote an article for LLL
on this topic.  As I did the research I was unable to find *any* evidence that
such a dyad would be better off either forgoing treatment or the
breastfeeding experience.  Rather, there is ample evidence that this dyad is more
vulnerable to all the problems inherent in not breastfeeding: hormonal chaos and
increasing maternal depression, infant illness that requires a more intense level
of mothering, repeating the cycle in the baby who grows up at risk of bipolar
disorder herself.  These are just a few hazards.

I'm unsure as to why Hale's work isn't an adequate answer for her, given that
he is often our most current source.

I have an information sheet on this which I'd be happy to share upon request.
 It contains information similar to the article for LLL.

Nancy Williams, MA, MFT, CCE, IBCLC




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