2 replies to this topic

[Jominto]

Hi Ladies

I've suffered from what I thought was IBS for about 7years and always jumped up and down to see a specialist with no result. However now that I am pregnant my symptoms are simply unbearable, what seems like every meal I was doubled over in agony - even throughout the night with severe abdominal pain and "toilet troubles" whether it be loose or constipation.

So after weeks of this, I was given a blood test for Coeliac which came back positive, I now await an Endoscopy (Camera into stomach) to confirm although I'm told the bloods are about 98% accurate.

Silly thing to do researching on the internet as the doctors dont seem too bothered to get me in (I had to fight for several weeks and hours on the phone to get my appt as they "are busy" even though they acknowledge im URGENT - but the good old internet tells me that with me continuing to eat gluten as the doctors have told me to do could be harmful to baby and result in low birth weight etc etc.

I'm just so worried and still in pain everyday and since I'm now 24weeks and just getting Endoscopy next Wed - I feel that I am at a loss as to how to make sure my baby is healthy!

I wondered if any other mums had been through Coeliac whilst pregnant or even closer to my situation been diagnosed whilst pregnant as most forums I am reading are already eating gluten free by the time they have fell pregnant!

Thanks in advance!

Jo

[GottaSki]

Welcome Jo!

First - congratulations on your pregnancy.

Second - don't eat more gluten than you need to - a slice or two of glutenous bread is sufficient. I may get slammed for suggesting this, but since you've already tested positive and are pregnant - if it were me - I would remove gluten now. Yes, the endoscopy is most accurate while still ingesting gluten - so if you are able to eat a slice of toast or two for the next few days do so -maybe at night.

Also make sure you had a full celiac panel. If you are unsure request a written or electronic copy of your results from your doctor. You can post them here if you are unsure of what was/needs to be done.

Nutrient testing is also very important - you may need more supplemtation than prenatal vitamins while you are healing and justating at the same time.

Hang in there - it really is very good that you found out now and will soon be able to give up gluten to become a strong healthy Mom

[jamer]

I was diagnosed while pregnant, only I found out I was pregnant the next day. I still started the gluten-free diet and could see a vast improvement in a matter of days.