I looove my midwives! I know it sounds horrible, but I feel so much more comfortable with them and their services than with either of my OBs with my other kids.
My primary midwife is actually my doula from T's birth. So, not only is she a friend, but we already have that special bond.
I also feel that they are much more knowledgeable than most doctors about having a normal birth. I'm not knocking doctors, I just feel that they are trained more in matters of a serious complication -which is good- but dont know much about such a natural process and event and preventative care.
My midwives were able to conclude from my medical history that I had pre-eclampsia with Auds because I wasn't getting enough protein in my diet. So, I'm on the Bradley diet to prevent that again. (my previous OB said it was a fluke and nothing could be done til it came back)
They also concluded that because I'm very anemic that my membranes were too weak causing my water to break so early with T and him being premature. (my OB also said it was a fluke) I'm on iron supplements to help boost it up.
My sickness is so bad that it's causing my blood pressure to be 88/52, which is crazy low. Instead of prescribing a pill, I'm taking alfalfa, which will help with the sickness as also boost my iron and vitamins A, C, and K.
This pregnancy is taking a totally preventative approach to make sure that previous complications don't happen again.
Now, because our state is so anti-midwife, I do have to go in for an ultrasound today as well as see an OB for my initially "diagnosis." Right now I'm just "amenorrhea" instead of pregnant. But there is one doctor who works very closely with my midwives, so I'm seeing him.
All in all, we're super excited about it all. The birth center is wonderful (planned home births aren't allowed just yet), and I'll be able to actually relax and eat and enjoy my labor.
Yay! I'm glad you found midwives you love.
ReplyDeleteI've had really good luck with organ meat, particularly liver, with my anemia troubles. I'm not sure if you like liver, but if you want my recipe, let me know!
I'm interested to hear more about the Bradley diet. I'm on the Brewer and I'm assuming they are probably similar. Do your midwives specialize in Bradley births/the Bradley method?
I just don't think I could do liver, but thanks for the offer. That and tongue, neck, Rocky Mountain oysters are just things I don't think I could stomach.
ReplyDeleteThe Bradley diet focuses on protein intake. I need to eat at least 100 grams of protein a day and drink 100 oz of water. It's a lot, but it'll be worth it. I have a list of what various grains, fruits and veggies, etc. amount to based on servings. The idea is is that if you get the protein your body needs, you won't have the insane cravings (since those usually indicate you're lacking something nutritionally). So you won't gain the bad weight and be at risk for gestational diabetes. My midwife has given me up to 45 pounds to gain, which I'm totally hoping I don't gain, since I'll be so protein-focused.
My glucose test is awesome. Usually with an OB here you have to drink the nasty stuff and get vials of blood drawn, long and tortuous process. My midwife is sending me out that morning with orders for 3 pancakes, 2 eggs and a glass of juice and I go in for a finger prick. SOOOOO much better!!
They do offer Bradley classes if you choose, but they're very friendly as to letting the mom labor how she chooses. There's a swing (kind of like a sitting hammock, to take pressure off of hips), big beds, couches, big tubs for water births, birthing balls, etc. They'll guide if you want help, but not force anything. I figure if I can give birth to a preemie in a hospital on 27 ml of pit, I can do it any which way. haha
Hey! Just curious how your ultrasound and appointment with the OB went, and if they gave you a due date.
ReplyDeleteI hope your sickness is easing up a bit. Hang in there!