Being the anxiety ridden person I am when it comes to my health, I called my doctor the afternoon after the 3-hour test. She said I would have the results that day, but I hadn't heard from her and it was 2pm going into the weekend. When she called me back she said, "Why did you call me? I wanted to give you the weekend off." I should have known. I failed the test and was diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes.
Again, I was a little panicked at first, but my doctor is amazing and must have totally sensed it. She calmly explained to me again that this can happen to anyone and that there was NOTHING I could have done to avoid or prevent it. However, now that we know I have it, we have to deal with it and make sure that I stay healthy. She gave me the name of an endocrinologist and nutritionist to see the next week and they would explain everything that I had to do with my diet moving forward. Again, she told me that this was not a big deal, we would take care of it, and to enjoy my weekend. Two Bon Jovi concerts later, that I did. :)
Last week I went to both the endocrinologist and the nutritionist. Both validated the fact that there was nothing I could have done to prevent this and that we will take care of it. I have only gained 24 lbs. since being pregnant, which both were happy with, and also helped to solidify the fact that my weight really has nothing to do with my diagnosis. I was given a controlled diet which actually offers a lot of choices---I can still have frozen yogurt and even ice cream---just in very small and controlled portions. I have to track and write down everything I eat and all of my portions; what I eat when is very regimented. This week I will go back for another blood draw/test to see if the diet is working. If not, I will have to give myself insulin for the rest of my pregnancy. Being the squeamish person I am, this is something I hope to avoid. However all of the doctors have told me that I could follow the diet to a tee and still may end up on insulin.
I share my story with you for two reasons. First, I have emailed with a few of you since my own test, as you have failed your screen or test as well. It's important to know that if this is the case, you are not alone---it happens to more women than you think. Everyone I know knows someone who had Gestational Diabetes. Luckily the chances of it going away after the baby is born is very high and most likely. Second, I share this with you as it goes along with my mantra of having to be flexible throughout this process. You never know what pregnancy is going to throw your way. This was a curve ball thrown at me, and I am dealing with it---just as I will deal with any other situation that comes my way over the next eight weeks, in the delivery room, or even after.
Do I miss my Dairy Queen runs and lemonade with lunch? Sure. But it's eight weeks of my life, and in the end I will probably be grateful for having to watch what I eat. I guess the positive is that the chances of me having my baby late are pretty slim with this diagnosis. Ultimately no matter what the situation, it's important to stay positive, stay relaxed, and listen to your doctor and the professionals who you have trusted with your care. Trust me, you will feel much better for doing so.
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