Looking back, I was probably more prone to the postpartum depression because I've always had the underlying anxiety disorder. Anyway, I found that breastfeeding actually added to my anxiety during that time. I wanted to breastfeed because I wanted to be a "good mother" and quite frankly the nurses at the hospital really pushed breastfeeding.
With my second baby, my OB doctor told me that I would be a better mom to my baby if I eased my anxiety. So I stopped breastfeeding and started taking my Klonopin and felt much calmer. Just the decision to not breastfeed anymore took a big load off.
I applaud you wanting to breastfeed your baby and I say go for it to women who can successfully do it, but some of us are just not cut out for it and that's okay too. So if you need to take your medication and switch to bottle feeding your baby, you shouldn't feel guilty. Your baby can sense when your anxious and will respond to that. I would say it would be better for your baby to be on a bottle with you calm and soothing rather than breastfeeding and you tensed up. Ya know?
I wish you well whatever you decide. |
I had major postpartum depression with both my kids. SM - QALady
