Positive pregnancy test, eek!

[ZacsmumLou]

I’ve just found out I’m pregnant, it’s very early and I have a history of miscarriage so I’m not counting my chickens just yet but, trying to be positive and think ahead! I had PPP when my son was born in 2016. I was very fortunate, all things considered, and responded well to treatment very quickly and have not had any symptoms since stopping treatment. I did have anxiety but that felt nothing like PPP.

I’m wondering what support people would suggest I push for in this pregnancy to minimise my risk of PPP this time?

Also what about a doula? Anyone ever used one? My husband was a chocolate tea pot in labour and Straight after last time and my feeling of not having anyone able to advocate for me or my son definitely contributed to my feeling overwhelmed, which, I think, was at least part of how I ended up with PPP.

Thanks x

[Ellie_at_APP Partner]

Congratulations ZacsmumLou! That's such great news!

I haven't personal experience of having a child after experiencing PP (I just have one child) but I'm sure you'll get some great responses on here.

I can't remember if you are in the UK? If so ask your GP to refer you to your local perinatal mental health team. If you are in England there should be one, and because of your previous PP they should support you during pregnancy and afterwards, and can give you advice and support around what to put in place to hopefully prevent it happening again, such as taking medication on delivery etc. They should be able to coordinate everyone involved in your care such as midwives etc, so everyone is on the same page in terms of things you may need to help you to stay well (for example a separate room on the postnatal ward etc).

I imagine you know already, but we do have a guide written by families who experienced pp and leading perinatal mental health clinicians about planning a pregnancy if you are at risk of PP. It's free to download here, or we can post hard copies out to you if you would prefer. This should help you consider all your options, and help you make a bit of a plan, and hopefully reassure you: app-network.org/what-is-pp/...

Take care, I hope all this is helpful and never hesitate to write on here for support!

Ellie X

[Cancerian86]

Hi ZacsmumLou

A big congratulations on your pregnancy, it’s so nice to hear that your trying again after going through PPP.

I had a doula with me during the birth of my little girl and a few home visits afterwards. I gave birth in Berlin and I knew that I needed to have extra support not just for me but also for my husband especially as first time parents.

From what you’ve mentioned, I feel like we have a similar story and by going a more natural root I managed to have a speedy recovery, didn’t take any medication and haven’t had any relapses. My little girl is 10 months old now.

My suggestion would be to get your gut health in order now while your pregnant, do acupuncture, meditate and find a doula for both the birth for home care afterwards. I found it good to be able to talk to my doula about the birth afterwards because she could remember it in a more factual way and also will hopefully give you the support you need to get your strength back. Also ofcourse if she knows your history, she will be able to pick up signs alongside your husband and family, if it were to happen again.

My husband and I say all the time that if we were to have another baby, we would do a checklist of who to contact and who to involve if it were to happen again so that the right people can help instead of people flustering around you not really knowing what to do.

I’m keeping my fingers crossed that you have a happy and healthy pregnancy!

[Lilybeth Volunteer]

Hi ZacsmumLou

I hope you are feeling well and staying positive. We are all here to talk. Take care. x