Should A Man With Bipolar Have Kids?

QUESTION:

Dear Dr. Heller,

Should a male person with bipolar depression have kids or not?
If yes, please advise what precautions need to be taken before planning for kids.
If not, please explain why.

ANSWER:

There is a significantly increased risk of bipolar disorder and probably other mental health disorders in the children.  Whether this increased risk dissuades you from having children is a decision you have to make for yourself.