Anyone with low platelets?

candygirl29

I'm 35 weeks and my doc said that my platelet count decreased drastically which means I may not be able to receive an epidural for delivery. She sent me to a hematologist that prescribed prednisone to increase my count. From my understanding prednisone has horrible side effects which makes me nervous. Has anyone else had this condition? If so, how much prednisone were you prescribed and how did you manage the side effects? Was the prednisone effective in increasing your count?

Leahauc

I have no answer for you yet. I just had repeat blood work drawn due to my platelets being lower than normal early on in my pregnancy. Haven't gotten the new results yet but I def want to ask about this at my next appt if platelets are still low.

PugsandKisses

Prednisone is great for treating low platelets especially idiopathic thrombocytopenia. Even if you don't need an epidural, platelets are needs to prevent hemorrhage.

What side effects are you concerned about?

candygirl29

Pugs, I read that it can interfere with your sleep, cause excessive weight gain and violent mood swings.

Frogger5

candygirl29 said:

Pugs, I read that it can interfere with your sleep, cause excessive weight gain and violent mood swings.

Some people are chronically on Prednisone, and they do have those side effects (and others). If you just have a low dose, short course, it's not a big deal. Sounds like @PugsandKisses knows more about it than me, but I've taken it before for other reasons without anything negative happening. And if for some reason you did need a higher dose for a longer period of time, then you really do need it, and the benefits outweigh the risks. Just follow the dosing schedule and ask for clarification if you have questions.