Hi, I've been reading a mother's climb out of darkness. It's about an American lady talking about her pp.
it's very interesting and well worth a read. My question is, in the book she says any women who has suffered pp should be testing their blood sugars and thyroid function regularly. Does anyone do this???
Hi, never heard of doing that before. My GP hasn't mentioned anything to me. Be interested to here if anyone else has.
Hi Betty
Thanks for your post. It's an interesting question and always good to ask about things we're not sure about I think.
I did get some professional psychiatric advice and they said that one blood test when first diagnosed with a psychotic illness, just to see if anything physical could be worsening, or even causing, the psychosis (which would include checking thyroid and blood sugar levels you mentioned) but it isn't something that would need checking ongoing after you've recovered etc. I hope that clarifies things for you!
Ellie
Hello there! After PP in 1988 I went on to have two more children following a plan by Dr Katherine Dalton . Part of the plan was to keep my blood sugars level by eating starch/carbohydrates on a three hourly basis. I have had blood tests to check thyroid and diabetes but nothing showed up. If I feel under pressure I go back to the plan and usually snack on plain oatcakes and I do feel better. I wonder what is the name of the book you have read?
Helen x
I can now see the title of the book is mentioned! X
Hello Betty,
Very interesting question. Before PP I was a regular blood donor. Since PP I was not allowed to give blood anymore. I could reapply for giving blood. However, my GP advised me not to do it, my haemoglobin always has been quite low.
Kind regards, Sabine x
Jennifer Moyer wrote "A Mother's Climb Out of Darkness." It's a beautiful and courageous book. As a postpartum psychosis survivor, I try to monitor my diet, exercise, stress and sleep levels to keep myself on an even keel. I also limit caffeine and alcohol. As a food scientist and nutritionist, I do recommend eating smaller balanced meals, eating at regular times, and avoiding too much sugar.
Hi skgerdes, I've read the book too and I agree it's an inspirational story. I do the same as you around monitoring diet, exercise, stress and sleep to stay mentally well. When I forget to keep these things in balance I definitely seem to not feel quite so in control of my mood or anxiety levels. I also find that alcohol, caffeine or too much sugar can adversely affect me. It's a lot to think about and I go off track very often one way or another, then realise what has made me feel not so good. I'm sure most people would benefit a lot from following similar principles, but I know I make more effort than many of my friends to be aware of my health and wellbeing because I learnt a very hard way (via PP) how important it is to look after myself and stay well. Thanks for sharing your helpful tips.
Tracey x
Hi betty2014!
Thank you so much for reading my book. I hope you are encouraged by it. I share my story so others will know there is help, there is hope and they are not alone.
There is such great information exchanged in this thread so thank you for asking the question. I, too, have discovered the importance of being proactive in my health and wellness. Personally, my doctor checks my thyroid and blood sugar levels annually and only more often, if necessary. It is just part of a routine blood check. I have learned that having an imbalance in thyroid and blood sugar should be ruled out when a mom has symptoms. Also, I have learned from my doctors that some medications can affect these areas. Of course, it is between you and your doctor as to how often checks should be done.
Warm Regards,
Jennifer
Invite to book launch - 3rd Oct - 6.30pm
PP even after preventative meds?
Have you read Day Six?
