This is for the Xchange moms. I have recently been promoted (demoted?) to a "high risk pregnancy" due to chronic high blood pressure. It's a problem I have probably had for a while, but pregnancy has brought it out. I don't have pre-eclampsia yet. I'm being monitored really well by both my OB and an obstetric internist he referred me to, and I feel good about my treatment. Still, I'm nervous about the possibilities of delivering early, going on bed rest, etc.

I was wondering if any of the other moms on the Xchange have been through similar situations and could share their experiences, it would really help me a lot. Thanks!

:rose:

I'm sure everything will be just fine sweetie!!!! I'm not much help here since I'm not a mom. lol I'll be sending positive thoughts your way though. :ghug:

Mary...big hugz to you! I had alot of trouble with Tiffani (not because of high blood pressure though) She kept trying to come early...put me into the hospital 8 times (for several days at a time) from Oct. until Feb... I was on bed rest from the last part of Oct. until the beginning of Feb. It got to the point to where I had to have home monitering (it was because even getting up to go to the doc's office would start the contractions...so it was either home or the hospital). After all of that...she was only 2 days early and weighed 8 1/2 lbs! So I'm sure that everything will be ok.

Just in case you do have to be put onto bed rest..here's some tips. Stock up on the munchies, a bunch of books & magazines, good movies, make sure that there is a telephone nearby, and tons of batteries for the remote control.

If you need to talk...I'm just a PM away :)

Have you asked your doctor about using natural diuretics to help lower your blood pressure? Thinks like watermelon and grapes can help somewhat. Also, ask about acupuncture and acupressure--some insurances cover them. If you're not too squeamish, you can ask about leach therapy (I know, it sounds grody) It's something that is being revived because when they are raised in laboratory environment and are clean, they are useful--they drink a little of your blood and leave behind a blood thinner (safe for almost everybody)

Those are some drug free solutions to blood pressure problems, but whether or not your doc will go along with it is another thing.

Also, look for dark green leafy veggies--they are rich in Vitamin K, which is a natural blood thinner.

Mary..I just re-read my post..I'm not trying to startle you..I'm sorry if it sounded harsh. I honestly wish you only the best for a healthy delivery of your daughter. There might be a few rough patches along the way...but I'm sure that everything will be great at the end. :)

Hi Mary, I'm no mom but I am a mother Flucker(could't resist). My wife went on bed rest with our first and because of it has been seen as high risk throughout this pregnancy. She's been seeing her Doc once a week and gets a call from a nurse as well. Bed rest drove her crazy with Emily but they took her off work early this time and so far has avoided it. Good luck and if there is any thing my wife or I can help you with just let me know.

Thank you all so much for your helpful posts and for the {{{hugs}}} (Jazzy!) Jana, your post wasn't harsh at all, I have a pretty good idea already that I will be on bedrest for at least some part of this pregnancy. Thank you for the tips - I'll keep in touch. :)

Brandy, I have been eating a lot of watermelon to help with the swelling, I'll have to look into other natural diuretic foods. Besides, I love watermelon. :) I'll think about the acupressure/acupuncture; I believe my insurance has a discount program for it.

Thank you for your post Anthony, I should have said "parents" and not moms. When is your little boy due? Sometime soon, right?

hugs all, I'll check in again more regularly over the summer as I'm not so busy at work these days.

Thanks again, everyone... I have a little update. On top of the high blood pressure, I was told on Monday that I have gestational diabetes. Ack!! I'm getting used to the diet plan, and sticking my finger 4 times a day... I'm just glad I'm almost 28 weeks, and the end is in sight. 99% of the time, it goes away at delivery.

I am in good hands with a few *more* health professionals I've picked up along the way (dietitian, diabetes nurse) - oh boy! ;)

I know this baby will be so worth it, I am crazy about her already. Chris had better bring me candy in the hospital however. :D

Take care all!

You are in my thoughts, Mary! :rose: Keep us updated. Rest tons!

Take care of yourself and Baby, Mary! :rose:

Mary...I know that you'll probably get tired and frustrated by everything that's going on..but when you finally get to actually hold your daughter in your arms,...it's an incredible feeling. Please check in with us more and so we'll know what's going on. I will keep you, Chris, and the baby in my prayers.

BTW..have you picked out her name yet? :)

Originally posted by BrandyBlue
Also, look for dark green leafy veggies--they are rich in Vitamin K, which is a natural blood thinner.
I just have to mention that Vit K. is a blood clotter. Thats why people who take coumadin have to be careful of green leafy veggies, because it works against the coumadin, which is a blood thinner. I know this because I teach it to patients everyday at my job. ;)