My Journey to Motherhood

My journey to motherhood has not been easy.  The many ups and downs I’ve experienced have brought me to a place of gratitude.  Please let me share with you my journey... 

I was diagnosed with endometriosis in December of 2001.  For 10 years I worried about my fertility and whether or not I could conceive.  To preserve my fertility, I had 3 separate laparoscopies to remove the endometrial growths.  I tried every kind of hormonal therapy including all types of birth control.  I experienced days of abdominal pain which resulted in many missed days of school and work.  Through it all, I was able to conceive in January 2011.

I experienced morning sickness and nighttime sickness during the first 4 months of pregnancy.  The nausea was unbearable to the point that I was unable to continue my employment as a banker.  It was difficult to remain professional with my clients while having episodes in the bathroom.  I had a couple of months of relief until symptoms of gestational diabetes set in.

During my 7^th month of pregnancy I felt something wasn’t right.  My blood sugar levels were very high.  The 3^rd trimester is tiring, but diabetes made me very uncomfortable.  Once I was able to see a endocrinologist, I started to feel much better.

The endocrinologist evaluated my blood sugar levels and gave me insulin.  I was required to check my levels every morning and after each meal.  I also gave myself insulin shots before each meal and before bedtime.  I would use a total of 8 needles per day.  I was also required to see my doctor 3 times per week for stress tests to evaluate my baby’s growth and heart rate. 

Toward the end of my pregnancy, I had to double my insulin dosages to maintain my blood sugar level in a healthy range.  For the health of me and my baby, I was scheduled for an induction before my due date.  I experienced every single induction procedure possible.  After 16 hours of labor, the induction resulted in a cesarean.

After all the worry, tests, shots, needles, and record keeping the diabetes went away within hours of birth.  I was so thankful!  My baby’s blood sugar was also fine.  My doctor informed me that from surgery he could confirm that the endometriosis had vanished during pregnancy!!!!  What an amazing miracle!!  Through it all, I am so grateful for this little girl in my life. :-)