As I, Dr. Teralyn sat with my dear friend and therapist, Jen, our conversation took a turn toward the deeply personal. We wound through the complex path of antidepressant use during pregnancy, weighing the delicate scales of maternal mental health against fetal development. This heart-to-heart isn't just about sharing our stories—it's about illuminating the often hushed dialogues surrounding medication, mental well-being, and the intricate dance of decision-making that expectant mothers face. Navigating pregnancy while managing mental health can feel like walking a tightrope, and this episode doesn’t shy away from that reality. We peel back the layers on the impact of healthcare professionals' guidance, and the profound weight their words carry in the informed consent process. You'll hear firsthand how the ripples of our experiences extend to the little ones we bring into the world as I recount my son's early developmental hurdles—a tale that underscores the need for clear, comprehensive communication and the empowerment of patients to ask challenging questions.In the tender realm of motherhood, the implications of medication use ripple into the postpartum period, touching on breastfeeding and child development. Alongside Jen, we tackle the emotional and practical challenges faced by mothers striving to nourish their newborns, the need for awareness among healthcare providers, and the importance of informed discussions on the effects of psychiatric medications. This conversation is an advocacy for knowledge, a call for compassionate healthcare dialogue, and a journey toward empowerment in the most vulnerable chapters of parenthood. --------------------------------------------------------HelloPlayground.com CLICK HERE to get 15% off Your First Order Are you tired of being gaslit and want to DEEP THROAT some more truth? We want to hear from you! Message us your gaslit stories at thegaslittruthpodcast@gmail.com While you are at it, Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube @thegaslittruthpodcast. Be sure to Hit that subscribe button and get alerts for more episodes! Thanks for listening!Follow Us individually at Dr. Teralyn: Instagram @Dr_Teralyn Facebook @DrTeralyn Tik Tok @Dr_Teralyn Therapist Jenn: Instagram @CandidlyunapologeticJenn TikTok @Jenn.Schmitz