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Mood-stabilizing medications have been linked with women's reproductive problems—specifically polycystic ovarian syndrome, a problem related to female hormones. This condition puts women at risk for infertility, diabetes and possibly heart disease and cancer of the uterus. However, the condition is treatable with medications.
Before and during pregnancy, women should not take lithium and other bipolar medications, says Michael Aronson, MD, a clinical psychiatrist and consultant for WebMD. "The interesting thing is, sometimes pregnancy by itself will stabilize someone with bipolar disorder. At other times, it can destabilize them. The best alternative for someone who is pregnant, who is having problems with depression or mania and cannot be placed on an adequate dose of medication, is using ECT [electroconvulsive therapy]. It's very effective and it's safe."
Women planning to become pregnant should talk with their psychiatrist about their plans. They should never stop taking their medications before talking with their doctor.
