Bipolar and Pregnancy Online Support Group

Hello I was wondering if anyone is in a relationship with a bipolar spouse and how it was for them to have a child. My bf is bipolar and we were due to get engaged but decided to wait due to his manic episodes n seeing if we should get married or not. I love him very much and am curious if I get pregnant by him what are the chances my child will be bipolar I haven't read much on that. Also will a child stress out someone who is bipolar? I certainly don't want to jeopardize his being stabilized on meds. Does anyone have any success stories??? If we get married I would love a baby but I have been through a lot and couldn't bear having my child go thru what my bf did... I want to explore all the options and research as much as I can thanks all!! <3 <3

Hi Roxanne,

I don't live with a bipolar since I am the bipolar one in my relationship. It takes a lot of consideration before having a child, and even more so when bipolar is involved. Genetically studies have proven that there is a greater chance of a child with bipolar parents to be bipolar. You have to remember however that bipolar is a treatable disease and that it can be managed with the right medication. Although we have "episodes" bipolar is not a death sentence. I know that you would not want your child to go through what your BF is going through, but that is a major risk when having a child with a bipolar person.

I have a double chance of my child having bipolar if I were to get pregnant with my BF since his dad is also bipolar, so it runs in both our families.

I will try to find articles for you on the subject early next week. I am taking off in a few minutes and will be back on Monday.

I am here to find information on bipolar and pregnancy and I will try to help you with the genetics of it all.

As far as a child stressing someone with BP. It is certain that any stress can trigger "episodes" in a BP individual. Having a child is a major stressor in people's lives so it is certain that it would not be easy for him, but I don't think it would be impossible.

Take care for now

Hi! I'm a bipolar mom, and although I am concerned for my childrens health I wouldn't have decided not to have them if I knew there COULD be a chance they could be bipolar. My father is possibly bipolar, but never was diagnosed. I haven't noticed anything odd with my childrens moods, and hopefully they'll never have to go through struggling with bipolar (or any other disease or illness). If they do I will help them as much as I possibly can because I know what its like. There are alot of health concerns that can be passed on genetically. As far as the stress factor, YES it is very stressful especially the newborn phase. But it's stressful for any parents bipolar or not. It is really important to have a good support system, and keep up on treatments! If you have any questions just ask me.