Hello, NWGirl,

These members are all right in some of their suggestions. I would add only that, in my view, you need to discuss the possibility of having a child with a psychiatrist who can
tell you whether you should remain on any or all medications for treatment of depression
while you might be pregnant. That's the really big one to consider, that and the fact
that having a child will not heal depression. It will be a chance you take if you try
to get pregnant believing that an infant can solve your problem.

An infant makes demands like no one else you will ever know. I think that's why mothers are given an unconditional love for the child; otherwise, it could be very distressing for
you while the child is too young to be responsive to your love. It will know only its
own needs and will expect you to be right there under all circumstances.

I know the first smile the infant gives you is a lasting memory; my husband was enthralled when our little daughter smiled at him when he first held her. Your husband will need to play an exceptionally helpful role for you in the initial stages; if he's willing to do that, it can help with the responsibility on your shoulders.

Whatever you decide, please continue therapy; you will need that support, too, in
case the decision is to try to go for a child. Remember that you're only 22. You might
still have a beautiful child even at forty; you certainly will have matured greatly by the time you're in your thirties. (The one disadvantage of that is that the child often thinks she/he was born to "ancient" parents!)

Good wishes on whatever you decide to do.