When I became pregnant, I promised myself that this blog wouldn't turn into a baby blog. This blog is about my stitching and I really want it to stay that way. So if you're not interested in the baby/pregnancy stuff, feel free to ignore this post.
I had an appointment this morning at the Hypertension Clinic at my local hospital and while things are still fresh in my mind, I wanted to post my thoughts. Maybe one day they'll be helpful to someone else.
Just to start by saying that in my previous pregnancy, I had problems with high blood pressure from about 3 months and by about 4 months was on tablets for it. I had various things done/to do such as 24 hour blood pressure monitoring and self monitoring of blood pressure. Then at 34 weeks, along with the high blood pressure, I had severe pre-eclampsia (HELLP syndrome) which resulted in my having a caesarian section.
Today was my first appointment at the Hypertension Clinic which I also attended last time. I have generally found the people there much more informative and helpful than the community midwife and it was the same again today.
I was, however, very disappointed that my blood pressure is again high and until 11am tomorrow I'm having it monitored for 24 hours. That means I have a cuff around my upper arm connected to a small machine on a belt around my waist. Every half hour during the day, the machine inflates the cuff and measures my blood pressure. I'm allowed to take it off to change clothes or for a bath or shower, but I need to wear it all the time, even when I go to bed tonight. The consultant I saw today (who I'm sure I saw last time) has also said that he wants me to go on to self monitoring when I get to 24 weeks.
This is all relatively straight forward. There is nothing difficult or intrusive in either the 24 hour monitoring or the self monitoring, although I know my arm will be suffering by 11am tomorrow from squeezing of the the constant inflation/deflation.
But I am very disappointed that my blood pressure is high again so soon. I'd hoped this time I would be able to have a more 'normal' pregnancy and get to experience everything without worrying about the blood pressure and potential implications. I had my urine tested today and it showed a small amount of protein too which worries me.
The consultant also spoke to me about the possibility of having another caesarian. If my blood pressure doesn't become a significant problem and I go to full term there is every chance I'll be able to have a natural delivery. However, as soon as anything goes wrong and the doctors need to intervene, than I'll be having a caesarian.
However, with my blood pressure up again, it does increase the possibility that intervention may be required.
Overall, it was a positive, informative appointment with midwives and doctors who were interested in what is going on, in how I feel about it all, and what I want to do. But I'm very disappointed that the blood pressure and potential problems have raised their head again so soon.
I go back again in 3 weeks.
13 comments:
I can understand how you would feel, especially developing this so early on. I had hypertension in all my pregnancies too, but not to the degree that you had. Positive thoughts! I'll be thinking of your poor arm for the next 24 hours!!
I'm sorry about your blood pressure. Hopefully you'll have a full term pregnacy and will not require c-section...you have to think positive :)
Sorry to hear about your blood pressure hun, hope you do go full term with the pregnancy, adn that you can have a natural birth.
Will be thinking of you over the next 24 hours hun.
Hugs xxxxxx
I'm sorry your appt wasn't as good as you would have hoped for. Hope the 24hr monitoring gives them some indication of hlep that they can offer you to ease your worries
It is disappointing when this most wonderful of experiences starts off with cautions and warnings - when of course what you want to do is glory in the wonder of it all, like any happy, expectant mama. I'm sending loads of positive thoughts your way, and I'll be thinking about you every day!!
Sorry to hear about your problems. My problems apopeared at the birth and last time I had an emergency c sectiob and this time it will be an elective section. Hope things improve for you. xx
Unhappy news indeed, that the high bp has returned with this pregnancy too. Above all else, we want you and baby to be healthy! Prayers that your blood pressure comes down and for wisdom for all your caregivers. Hugs!
Firstly I would like to congratulate you and your DH on your fantastic , brilliant. wonderful news. I am so happy for you both :-)))
But sorry to read of your disappointment about the blood pressure problem returning so early, not nice :( I shall be thinking of you and hope all goes well for you to go full term :)
I think being pregnant is a very concerning time for some ladies.
Take care (((hugs)))
Sorry to hear about your blood pressure issue. Hope the dr and nurse give you enough suggestion and workable solution. I have gestational diabetic when I was pregnant with my only son. I was on insulin and had to check my blood sugar 5 times a day, so I know how you feel. Hang in there, you can make it.
I hope things go better for you {{{{hugs}}}} Keeping my finger's crossed that your blood pressure goes down and you can have a normal birth:)
Oooo congratulations first and foremost on your lovely your pregnant news.
Secondly - you take it easy, I really hope they get your blood pressure sorted out and everything progresses well. I'm thinking of you xx
Sorry to hear about your bp being high so early, but think of it in a good way, the doctors will know ahead of the game so you will be better taken care of! rest as much as you can!
Donna
Lesley, dear. I'm so sorry this issue is plaguing you. Can't they find something to help this problem...an herbal remedy or acupuncture or something? My prayers are going to be for you this Thanksgiving. I'm grateful for your friendship and your thoughts for Jessica, too. Hugs, Deb
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