14 Weeks & Counting.
There you have it. Just one more thing to add to the list of what to worry (or not worry) about during my pregnancy. First, it’s the possibility of getting pre-eclampsia for the third time. Then, it’s keeping my high blood pressure under control. Then, my doctor tells me I’m of “advanced maternal age” … as in I’m getting old even though I’m only 35. Now, it’s the problems with hypothyroidism. Wait, did I mention I have anxiety issues? *commence foot tapping now*
My thyroid started acting up before I got pregnant, and my appointment with the endocrinologist isn’t until July. So, I was not taking any medication to treat it before I got pregnant or throughout my first trimester. I thought nothing of it. However, my doc tells me of the concerns he has for the baby and myself if it’s not under control. Great!
Cause for Concerns?
Sure there is! Apparently a lot can happen to me and the baby if I don’t get this under control. My OB doc has started me on medication BEFORE even seeing the endocrinologist. Let’s just say after visiting the American Thyroid Association website, I have a lot of (scary) things to think about.
The site states, “Untreated, or inadequately treated, hypothyroidism has been associated with maternal anemia (low red blood cell count), myopathy (muscle pain, weakness), congestive heart failure, pre-eclampsia, placental abnormalities, low birth weight infants and postpartum hemorrhage (bleeding). These complications are more likely to occur in women with severe hypothyroidism. Most women with mild hypothyroidism may have no symptoms or attribute symptoms they may have as due to the pregnancy.”
Those last two sentences calmed me a bit. There was no apparent rush for me to see the endocrinologist in the first place. I really don’t want to go over everything in this post, so if you’re in the same boat with me, let’s stay afloat together! But, I’m now more at ease being on the medication.
Am I Worried?
Actually … not really. I’m very confident in my OB doctor. I know I’m in good hands and he will do everything he can to take good care of me. I’m confident that all will be well with the right medication. And, even if things become complicated, I’m ready for it. I’ve got a HUGE family with a built-in support system. Besides, I’m seeing the high-risk pregnancy doctors and my endocrinologist soon.
I guess the only thing I’m worried about right now is whether or not I can breastfeed my baby while taking this kind of medication. Just another question to ask on my next visit.
