is investigated to determine if post partum mental illness was a factor.

I've known 3 women with severe post partum mental illness. Two are dead. One is horribly disfigured.

My dad's sister tried to take her own life after childbirth. His other sister raised my infant cousin for a while while my other aunt recovered.

My depression was often during my pregnancies. It lifted after I delivered. I had a difficult time ever adjusting to 'the pill', for the same reason. It mimics early pregnancy. In fact I used to throw up.the first day or two of starting a new month. I never felt happy on them.

A woman is supposed to be the happiest ever, and her own body is causing her to act in ways she never would otherwise. I think often of Andrea Yates, and wonder if she has moments of lucidity where she realizes what she did and experiences the horror that would have to accompany that reaization.

I'm glad she got help and not the death penalty.