Did you stay on medication during your pregnancy? If so, did you children have any birth defects?
I took 150 mg of Lamictal and 150 mg of Wellbutrin SR. I was on Ativan when I found out I was pregnant but I quit it as soon as I found it. David is absolutely perfect--no birth defects or problems of any kind.

Do your children show signs of bipolar disorder?
Thus far, no. Sometimes I wonder about my 7 year old but she's in early puberty so moodiness and crazy behavior is the norm! Typically bipolar will not start showing up until they are in puberty. It's unusual for it to make its appearance in younger children.

How much do you think the disorder effects your ability to be a good parent?
It depends on the day. On most days I feel like it has little, if any, effect on my ability to be a good parent. On other days I'm really short tempered and will yell or get after them more than is really necessary or I'm depressed and let them watch way too much TV. I have never hit my children beyond a smack on the butt or abused them in any way. The one time I felt things might go in that direction I was suicidal and walked into an ER and asked for help. If I ever feel that way again I will get immediate help.

If you want a family, discuss it with your psychatrist (with your husband there) and your OB. Both told me bipolar is not a reason to not have a family unless you are having serious problems with psychosis, suicidal thoughts, etc. If it's out of control, you need to get it under control before you get pregnant. I won't lie--being bipolar and pregnant is a rough ride. It's also really hard after you have the baby. To me it was worth it, though. Let us know what you decide.