Saturday, November 13, 2010

30 Weeks! And a Huge Update...

This week has been a little crazy in the baby department.  I found out on Thursday that I do indeed have gestational diabetes.  Lovely.  Apparently my levels were so high that I didn't even need the 3 hour test...straight to the specialist for me.  So what does this mean for me and the babes? 
  • My insulin levels have become a little screwy during the end of the pregnancy.  If not treated, it can result in my baby growing larger than normal giving us an increased risk of having to have a C-section and /or low blood sugar levels for our little girl when born.  I am also at double the risk of having to be induced because of the baby being in distress.
  • They are fairly certain, according to previous blood work, that this is not something I had before I became pregnant.  This is great news as diabetes can result in major problems early in pregnancy when the baby is just developing.  
So what's happening now?
  • I went to a diabetes specialist on Friday.  He gave me some information about gestational diabetes and assured me that it was not something I did to our little girl.  I was (and honestly still am) having a hard time feeling guilty about harming her.  But the doctor was very helpful and convinced me that this is not uncommon and with treatment I will not have to give birth to a "fat baby."  Which by the way is what the official name is for it.  Isn't that awful?  My poor little fat baby.  I actually asked him if our baby was already a fatty and he said no.  Thank goodness!
  • I have to check my blood sugar 4 times a day.  Like straight up prick my finger and take my blood 4 times a day.  I have a little pack I have to carry around with me and record everything.  I have become my grandmother.
  • I have to take these levels to the doctor in about 10 days to discuss whether or not I will need insulin injections.  Luckily...my readings so far have been in the required ranges so it is not looking like I will need this...thank goodness!  But only time will tell.
  • I also have to meet with a nutritionist next week to give me some advice on a diet.  Apparently it's not as simple as giving up candy bars.  :)  There's a little more to it and I'm very anxious to figure out what I can do to help this move in the right direction.
Following my appointment with my specialist, I had my regular appointment with my OB.  Turns out not only do I have gestational diabetes, my blood pressure is also high.  I know.  What else can go wrong?  But, she assured me that diabetes and high blood pressure often go together and it again is nothing I have done.  I have to get rechecked on Monday and if my blood pressure is still elevated I will be put on medication to treat that.

Also, I am now required to be monitored much more closely due to the diabetes.  Starting in two weeks I will have to go to my doctor every week, be hooked up to a monitor from 20-60 minutes, and sit on my booty while the baby's heart rate is monitored.  They're checking to make sure she is not in any sort of distress.  I will also have to have two more ultrasounds before she's born in order to make sure her growth is on track.

My doctor did say that babies of mother's with gestational diabetes are usually born healthier and easier than even normal babies because they are so closely monitored.  So I guess that's an upside.  And I'm really glad that we caught this in time and there are ways to treat it.  I know it could be a lot worse but I'm so thankful it is something that I have some control over now and can help our little girl as much as possible.

So anyway, prayers are appreciated!



We're 30 weeks!  Only 10 more weeks to go little one.  Please say in there as long as possible and cook away.  And let Mommy know just what you need, okay?  I'd do anything for you.  Even give up cupcakes.  And I wouldn't do that for just anyone. 

13 comments:

d.a.r. said...

Oh sweetie, I'm sorry. I know that has to be hard news to cope with, but it really sounds like the docs (and YOU!) are on top of everything and you and the lil' one will be well taken care of. You guys are in my prayers!

Kristen said...

so sorry to hear this Jenny, that's no fun! Like you said at least it was caught early and can be monitored closely. Sorry about having to prick your fingers, did they at least show you to prick sorta on the side instead of the tip or the opposite side of the nail? Less nerves there so it won't hurt as bad. Hope that helps!

The Shabby Princess said...

Oh, sweetie, please don't beat yourself up over this. It happens. Everything will be OK. You are doing everything in your power to keep your lil cupcake and you safe and healthy. You are an amazing mommy already, you hear me?

I have a friend who had gestational diabetes and high blood pressure with both her pregnancies, and she was one of those all healthy all the time no sugar veggie people and SHE got gestational diabetes--it happens! But, she gave birth to a healthy and happy little one and everything was fine. So, please, don't panic, I know ti will be OK.

You guys are in my prayers.

I love you!!!

Mrs EyeCanSee said...

That really stinks...but if you have to find the silver lining....it will force you to keep your eating habits and weight gain in check. I wouldn't have minded a little extra nudge those last few weeks when candy was a major food group and I packed on the most pounds. Yikes!!

Sending lots of prayers your way for healthy, non fatty, beautiful baby girl!

Jackie said...

so sorry, friend. sending you lots of hugs and prayers!

Brittany Ann said...

Oh no! I'm lifting you up in prayer. And I know you and your baby girl will be so protected! You're doing a great job as a Momma! Don't worry!

Sonya said...

That stinks! A girl I used to teach with had this. I remembered how freaked out she was at first. It took some adjustment but everything came out just fine and she & the baby are perfectly healthy! And if you have to do the needles, I hear they aren't that bad!

Llama said...

I am def thinking of you...hoping, wishing and praying that you stay strong and healthy as well as the little one too!!

Emily said...

I am praying for you girl! I know that this is all knew, but you can handle it and will have a healthy happy beautiful baby girl! I have lived with type 1 daibetes since 1997 and know all about pricking fingers and insulin injections (I actually wear an insulin pump). If you need to talk to someone who understands to an extent, please email me. Praying for you!! :)

Lucy Marie said...

I've been praying for you and your wee girl. I know that you're doingeverything you can to take care of her. She's lucky to have you as a Mama.

USCEmily said...

I am so very sorry to hear this, but you seem to be on the right track to getting it under control. I'll be saying prayers for you and your little one!

Shaina said...

Boo! Definitely a minor setback - but just that! Minor! Everything will be a-okay. A few more months of annoyance (checking your sugar, etc) and then Baby Girl will be in your arms and you won't have to deal with this any more! I love you!!

Taylor-Made Wife said...

I know that has to be so tough for you. It sounds like they have you all set up though and I'm sure everything will be perfect. At least you still great!