However, the nights that followed were tormenting. High fevers ranging from 102 to 104.8 degrees plagued me, making me feel as though my body was failing. I thought the swelling was just leftover pregnancy fluid, but it turned out to be much more serious. I began experiencing dizzy spells and occasionally blacked out after bending over.
One day, while in the shower, I passed a blood clot the size of a golf ball. Alarmed, I called my OB, who recommended I head to the ER. However, I hesitated, thinking that as long as Tylenol kept my fever down during the day, I was okay. But the situation worsened.
Eventually, I visited my OB, who promptly sent me to the ER. At that time, the hospital was filled with flu patients, and I faced a tough decision: should I take my newborn with me or let my mom take her home? With just six ounces of breastmilk saved in the freezer, I felt guilty about exposing Mia to illness just to ease my anxiety. Leaving her with my mom was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made, and saying goodbye made me feel sick.
After spending 11 hours in the ER, during which my husband, Mark, came to support me, I pumped breastmilk to send home with my stepdad. I was devastated, thinking, “Is this the end of breastfeeding for us?”
Finally, after extensive testing, the doctors delivered shocking news: I needed to be admitted for further evaluation, including an MRI with contrast dye. My concerns about our breastfeeding relationship loomed large, considering I had already faced numerous challenges, from my baby losing weight to her bilirubin levels being dangerously high.
Once settled into my hospital room, I made sure to request a breast pump and a crib for Mia, knowing she would be joining me soon. When Mark arrived with her, I felt a surge of emotion. After what felt like an eternity apart, I finally held her close, and the moment she was on my chest, my heart rate noticeably slowed.
Shortly thereafter, it was time for my MRI. Overwhelmed by claustrophobia, I panicked and had to be sedated for the procedure. Upon returning to my room, I learned that my OB had arranged for me to be moved to the birthing unit, which was a huge relief.
Eventually, the test results revealed a severe case of sepsis and clotting in my pelvis. My doctor warned that had I waited any longer, I could have lost my life. The fevers I had experienced were my body’s desperate fight against a blood infection.
I was immediately started on strong antibiotics and blood thinners, which necessitated injections in my belly twice a day. My hospital stay extended for a week, and I was told that I could go home if I could remain fever-free for 24 hours. However, each time I neared that mark, my fever would spike again. One night, my oxygen levels dropped so low that alarms sounded, leading to breathing treatments for the rest of my stay.
Amidst this chaos, I was also grappling with postpartum emotions, learning to breastfeed, caring for a newborn, and dealing with a painful vaginal tear. After a week in the hospital, I finally returned home, feeling a mixture of relief and exhaustion.
Despite the challenges, I persevered through sepsis, continued breastfeeding, and eventually overcame the blood clots. The journey involved daily injections and adjusting to my new body, which was now marked with bruises and stretch marks. Yet, almost seven months later, I am here, thriving with my best friend and daughter. Mia is still exclusively breastfed, and I wouldn’t change a thing, even knowing that my ordeal caused permanent damage to my veins.
Life has irrevocably changed. I can no longer engage in long hikes or extended errands without risk of swelling and pain. However, if faced with the same circumstances again, I would endure it all for my daughter.
The past months have been the most enriching of my life. My daughter brings immense joy and meaning, reminding me that motherhood is a profound journey filled with unconditional love and resilience.
For those navigating similar experiences, it’s essential to seek support and remember that you’re not alone. Resources such as this fertility booster for men and this home intracervical insemination syringe kit combo can provide valuable assistance. Additionally, UCSF’s Center offers excellent information for pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, my experience underscores the importance of awareness and action during critical health situations, especially as a new parent. The journey may be fraught with challenges, but the rewards of motherhood are beyond compare.
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