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Cindy Riachi - Pittsburg, KS.

I had morning sickness throughout most of my pregnancy. I developed bad sciatica, carpal tunnel syndrome, and a similar disorder in my feet. I started noticing swelling around the fifth month that got progressively worse. I had terrible heartburn. I had difficulties breathing even when sitting. I started having contractions two weeks prior to his due date. I finally went into labor on his due date. He was not born until the next day. My blood pressure had risen during the labor. I was in significant pain even after my epidural.

Within a few minutes of my son being delivered vaginally, my blood pressure shot up to 226/176. I developed hyperreflexes. I believe I was given magnesium sulfate and a barbiturate to stabilize me. I was transferred into ICU where I spent a day. I was too weak to even hold my baby. I was diagnosed with preeclampsia. Prior to this, I had not had significant proteins in my urine or high blood pressure during my prenatal visits.

My baby is healthy and strong. I am 3 mths postpartum and feel as if I am still recovering. I require about 10-12 hrs of sleep at a time, much more than before. I found my pregnancy and labor to be extremely taxing on my body. My job was high stress but I had taken off early due to complications, although I had to fight to get disability as preeclampsia was not diagnosed until after his delivery. I am thankful I left my job early due to the stressful work environment and my physical condition.

Anyone with complications during pregnancy, should discuss this with their doctor and also review guidelines on The Family and Medical Leave Act which allows for up to 90 days leave unpaid(if disability is not available or approved).


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