One Last Push Before Starting Fertility Treatment. | Bipolar Disorder

I am going to the psychosomatic clinic for the second time this week. There was something I forgot to discuss with the doctor last time.

First, I want to talk about folic acid. According to an article I found online, women who wish to become pregnant are recommended to take sufficient folic acid before pregnancy to reduce the risk of neural tube defects in the fetus. Furthermore, since sodium valproate and lamotrigine, which I am currently taking as treatment for bipolar disorder, may inhibit folic acid metabolism, it is said that I need to take more folic acid than a typical pregnant woman. In my case, I will stop taking sodium valproate completely, but since I will continue taking lamotrigine, I believe I need to take folic acid. I will ask the doctor today if they can prescribe it for me.

The second point is about when to start trying to conceive. I have spent two months tapering off sodium valproate, which is contraindicated for pregnancy, and if things continue to go well, I plan to stop taking it completely on June 26th. After that, I want to consult with the doctor about when I can start trying to conceive. My next expected ovulation date is July 8th. I think I will be able to prepare myself mentally if I can find out if it is okay to start trying at that time.

I am finally standing at the starting line of trying to conceive. I think it is truly amazing that I have been able to work this hard to get here. And I cannot thank my family and the doctor enough for walking this path with me. Even with bipolar disorder, one can still pursue happiness. I want to continue spending my days calmly and without rushing.