A Deeper Look

Since the beginning of the pregnancy I've mentioned the frequent lab work I've been doing. Well now that I've hit 27 weeks things are getting more intense because of my history. My last lovely 24 hr urine lab came back with protein, so my Dr had me see a specialist this morning right away. It was the first Dr I talked to that made complete sense. I know my body, I'm so aware of everything and she seemed to really listen and give me tons of information, I was there for a couple hours just talking and did another long ultrasound.

Here is whats going on with Rachel...

I've always been very vocal about preeclampsia and after having it twice have gained tons of knowledge. I pretty much know it all, seriously. I went from being totally clueless the first time to completely understanding everything the Dr tells me at this point. So if you have known me at all you've probably heard me talk or write about causes and cases at least once. Women who get this illness more then once are usually getting it for other reasons. So the Dr told me I have some sort of disorder that is causing my body to treat the placenta as an illness, my body literally tries to fight off pregnancy. I'm being tested for Hypertension to be on the safe side, but I don't have high blood pressure normally, so she doesn't think that could be it. Which brings it to another cause...

I did some reading and saw a lot about kidney problems linked to women with frequent cases. My Dr wanted to look into it and this Dr looked at my kidneys and they did seem off. But they can't do full tests or treatment until after the baby is born. But she is leaning towards me having a form of kidney disease. This summer I will have a biopsy, and to fully treat the problem will require a kidney transplant. I don't know what to expect, but I just want whatever is wrong to be fixed. I've stayed very positive and have been very private about these findings until I saw the specialist.

I will be seen now by my Dr one week and the specialist the next, so every week another appointment to ensure things will turn out for the best. Preeclampsia can't be treated and I will almost definitely have it this time. My due date has been pushed up to 36 weeks and the Dr says that is a super optimistic point since naturally I got sick at 32 and 34 weeks. So we will see. I've already prepared myself a long time ago for this, so as long as baby is healthy I'm going to keep on moving. I mean, I get another baby! A boy! We are so happy! So as long as he will be here with us safe and sound, great! As for me, I'll deal with that when the time comes and stay strong for my family.