It's official, I have preeclampsia which for me means bed rest in a hospital until birth. Protein levels increased quickly over a few days and my blood pressure has been high.
At 28 weeks our goal is to keep her in as long as possible. We have had everyone go over worst case scenarios with us though, so we can be mentally prepared. It's really scary all the things that can go wrong but at least we know what they are.
If you are going through the same thing or have a positive story to share I would
love to hear it!
Re: I have preeclampsia
I'm so sorry you're going through this but it's great that you are where you need to be right now. I have no experience or advice, just wanted to send you some support. T&P and HUGS to you!!
As for right now, don't do too much research. I drove myself nuts looking at all the worst case scenarios. It is good to be prepared, but try not to go overboard. As long as you trust your providers and feel comfortable that they are keeping a good close eye on you and your baby, you could carry to full term (meaning 36wks +). Find something other than just watching TV to do while on bed rest. I kept a journal and actually ended up doing quite a bit of writing that is not too bad. Maybe someday I will see if it is really any good and try to submit it somewhere. Probably not, but it was really nice to have a creative outlet I could do from bed. Also, let other people do stuff. I know that sounds dumb when you are lying in a hospital, but I was so worried about seeming like a bother to the nurses and staff I didn't ask for help with anything. Finally, I had a nurse who was up my butt all shift and I had no idea why, but it felt like she wouldn't let me fart without her being there. Then I realized it was because even though I was "just on bed rest" I was still a patient and it was ok to let the nurses and CNAs do their jobs. Have some visitors, but not too many. If anyone is just going to stress you out more by asking a lot of questions or talking about themselves (you all know the types!) just don't let them in. But if you have friends or family that are great supports and would help you laugh, cry, just be...bring them on! Lastly, listen to your body. I dismissed so many symptoms thinking I was being dramatic or "Well, this is just how it goes when you have pre-e", but you deserve to feel the best you can. Be vocal, be in-tune, and be confident. The doctors can tell you what your labs say and what your vitals are, but you are the expert in you.
Hugs, T&Ps, and all the positivity to you! If you need anything, feel free to PM.
Edited to add that I was also a baby born 6 weeks early due to my mother having preeclampsia. I wasn't in the hospital long and had no issues at all.
I have already noticed myself ignoring symptoms of other things, like a sinus infection, because I'm so I obsorbed in this. I will talk to the nurse today.
Thanks again!