Sucessful Pregnancy With Cd

[kerri124]

I've had 4 miscarriages which my dr is now saying were caused by celiac disease. Has anyone else had miscarriage problems who have then gone on to have a successful pregnancy with celiac disease? Thanks.

[seeking-wholeness]

Kerri,

I have a friend who I strongly suspect is gluten intolerant, although she is not (yet?) ready to find out for sure. She had multiple miscarriages but DID finally successfully carry an infant all the way to term!

One thing she noticed was that she tended to conceive while she was either fasting for medical reasons or voluntarily on a CRON (calorie restriction with optimal nutrition) diet--which makes sense if she actually is gluten intolerant, since those circumstances would allow her intestine to heal at least somewhat. I'm not suggesting that you starve yourself, of course, just pointing out that there is hope that once you are firmly on the gluten-free diet your body will be able to support a pregnancy. I certainly hope so!

Good luck!

[corbintlg]

I've had celiac disease since 2. I had two babies - only 13 months apart with no problems and no prior miscarriages. Once on the gluten free diet - your body should start healing. I ate very well while being pregnant, exercises and took vitamins. Good luck. There is hope...trust me.

[kerri124]

Thank you both. It makes me think that I may be able to have another baby one day!! Hopefully this diet will do the trick.

[Connie R-E]

Cheer up, Kerri124!!

Of course you can!!

I've had 5 miscarriages in as many years... after going gluten free--damn hidden glutens! But, last week I gave birth to the most beautifu baby boy!!

The tricky part was avoiding hidden glutens--they caused several miscarriages for me. "No new foods!" has been my motto for the past 9 months!

Also, I tested exceptionally low for progesterone, the hormone that "holds" a pregnancy.

My best advice would be to have your progesterone levels checked and adopt the "No new foods!" motto for the duration of your pregnancy.

Good Luck!!

Connie

celiac mother of 2

[plantime]

CONGRATULATIONS CONNIE!!

It is so good to know that taking proper care of ourselves can have such a positive impact!

[Guest aramgard]

Connie, I'm really glad your pregnancy turned out well. That little baby boy has a good chance of staying really healthy because of you staying on the gluten free diet. I truly hope he doesn't have Celiac, but maybe he would be better off staying gluten free for life and never finding out about gluten at all. CONGRATULATIONS. sHIRLEY

[Connie R-E]

Thank you everyone!!

We're soooo proud!! He's the best little guy ever!

Valen doesn't spit up or cry non-stopped (only when he's mad!), he sleeps all night, and on his 1 week check-up, he gained 6 ounces over his birth weight! (they give them 2 weeks to come back up to their birth weight.)

The doc was really impressed with how alert and healthy he is!!

I feel like I'm doing something right!

Someday we'll do gene and allergy testing, but not until he's much older. We'll just keep on doing things right.

Connie

[Jojes]

Connie

Congratulations on your new arrival. I just wondered if you received progesterone injections or other support during your pregnancy?

Jojes

[Connie R-E]

Jojes

The progesterone was in a supository form.

That was the only thing I took...

Connie

[Alison]

I was diagnosed with celiac disease a year and a half ago. I was severely anemic at the time and had horrible digestive problems (and a bunch of other problems that I won't go into here). I am now 5 months pregnant with my first child and am so grateful that I was on the gluten-free diet before getting pregnant. I have had a wonderful pregnancy with NO morning sickness, NO fatigue, NO leg cramps (which I used to have every night) and NO aches and pains. I credit it all to being gluten-free and shudder to think what a pregnancy would have been like pre-diagnosis. I can't wait for this gluten-free baby to enter the world!

[plantime]

Alison, Congratulations on your pregnancy, and let us know how it turns out, as in gender, weight, birth date!

[jpfarr]

Hello everyone, I have read all your postings and learned alot. I guess I am just looking for some support. I was just diagnosed with celiac disease two weeks ago, and subsequently come to find out through all my bloodwork other tests that I am also pregnant...5 weeks pregnant. I am now scared to death, since I was not following a gluten free diet, and my stomach sometimes still hurts and bloats up. I guess I still need to learn alot about reading labels. However, I am scared of the problems and complications that could arise during this pregnancy and what can be the problems my baby could face (abnormalities, deformities, what????) I live in Guatemala City, Guatemala...a country below Mexico in Central America, and I cannot find many gluten-free products except bread mixes. I do not know if the rice flour they make here is contaminated or not...and I am considering with my husband to buy the flours on the internet and have them shipped all the way here, but I do not know what to buy....any suggestions in flours and any other products in order to get all the nutrients for baby and some fiber for myself?

I mean, I even have to order the prenatal vitamins,,,and there are soooo many, I don

[Guest aramgard]

Johanna, First of all don't panic. I was only diagnosed 3 years ago after being a Celiac probably since I was 12-14. I am now nearly 70 years old. I delivered 3 normal babies even with Celiac who are now having some of the same problems I had. You are very lucky to have a firm diagnosis so early in your pregnancy. Eat very simply, fresh veggies, plain meat, fresh fruit, plain rice, corn tortillas, for a while. That will give you time to order flours from the U.S. Do you ever have access to an oriental market? That is a good place to get rice and tapioca flours. Also you can buy cornstarch in most mexican markets and sometimes corn flour and masa. Use this web site for recipes and ad lib with the flour mixes with what you have. Order xanthan gum or guar gum from the internet when you start to bake. If you are only 5 weeks pregnant you can stay gluten free from now on and give that baby a good head start into life. Cooking gluten free just means an adjustment to your lifestyle and in a South American country it shouldn't be totally impossible. Don't they rely a lot on corn products?? These are perfectly adequate for most Celiacs. I know how overwhelming this diagnosis is, but put your head in to making a good life for that baby and go from there. Shirley

[corryne]

Connie,

I read what you said about getting your prog. tested. I was wondering where to get that test, with either my obgyn or regular doctor, and if it was expensive or could it be covered by my health insurance. My insurance is real particular about fertility expenses, and was wondering if that test would be in that area, or how I can get it done.

I miscarred last July. I was diagnosed last May, although I have been celiac intolerant for a very long time. My husband and I have been trying to have children for what seems like forever, even though I know it hasn't been that long. Anyway, I was happy when I found out I miscarried and I was thinking I couldn't get pregnant, but now I am anxious to get pregnant again, and want to do everything I can to find out when the best time is, etc.

thanks in advance for any advice

[Connie R-E]

corryne,

I went with my friend for HER ultrasound, and she explained to her OBGYN about my miscarriages and that I had just tested positive on a home preg test(I was about 2 weeks pregnant--I usually miscarried at 3-4 weeks), and he ordered blood tests for me on the spot.

He wasn't even my doctor! The next day his office called and had me go immediately to the pharmacy to pick up the script.

I qualified for medicaid later that month and they picked up the tab...it was about $100+ for each blood test and I had 2.

I hope this helps!

Good luck with your next pregnancy!!

Let us know how everything works out.

Connie

[mijoryma]

I have also had two children that are mostly healthy. (one may have celiac disease too, I am awaiting test results) I did not know that I had celiac disease while I was pregnant. I only found out two months ago about my celiac disease and am actually trying to get pregnant again. I was wondering what prenatal vitamins, if any are okay to take. I had some here from my midwife that she had suggested I take while I am trying to get pregnant and the company says that they are gluten-free, but it seems like while I take them I seem to be have problems again. While I do not take them I am feeling good. Any suggestions would be great. Thanks.

Michelle

[Guest Blackheartedwolf]

A week ago my husband and I started trying to conceive, and I have been taking Centrium vitamins and a Walgreens generic folic acid supplement. I have been feeling fine taking them. What symptoms are you getting from your vitamins?

It may very well be that either there is some gluten in your vitamins, or your intestines may be too damaged for now to be able to handle them. I have been gluten-free since 2-23-04, and I am unable to handle too much milk or icecream. Some of us have very delicate digestive systems when we are first diagnosed.

[Queen Serenity]

Hi, all!

I am 37 years old and have had Celiac's for close too ten years now. I was diagnosed after the birth of my second son. Last May, I was also diagnosed with Hypothyroidism. Despite all of this, I became pregnant in August 2003. I was shocked, because I never thought I could become pregnant again. On May 3, I gave birth to a healthy baby girl. So, to everyone who is worried about pregnancy--don't let it worry you. If it's going to happen--it will happen. Despite all of the trauma, that my body has been through, a gift of a child was given to me. So, there is hope. Please don't give up. Take care!

Vicki

[Guest aross]

I am new with this celiac disease. It is really scary to me. I have been gluten-free for 4 months but recent biopsy showed signs of gluten. We are planning to have anohter baby but I am really scared of not knowing how well my body is. Another thing, I have been reading about everyone being so under-weight. I do not have that problem. I also have thyroid problems but medication takes care of that and I still can not loose weight. I struggle with weight loss. Is this normal? I feel like I should be as thin as a pencil with what I eat now. I have cut out absolutely everything harmfull. What is going on?

[Sara Lydia]

I dont want to step on any toes here or offer unsolicited advice when I, myself, am not even preggers... but I've been researching it a little and have concerns of my own as well. Especially concerning laxatives while trying to concieve and lack of grains and carbs to support a growing fetus, etc.

I have posted on some of the other boards about the SCD diet. It is for patients diagnosed with Celiac, Chron's, Ulcerative Colitis and Irritable Bowel.

I was so at a loss bc gluten-free was just not helping me. I was still in so much pain even though i avoided 'new foods' and unknowns etc.

My mother gave me this book and I did my research on it online, its called "Breaking the Vicious Cycle" and come to find out, this woman really knew her stuff when it came to bellies.

The diet, however, is even MORE constrictive. No complex carbs, no corn foods, no starches like rice and potatoes, no canned veggies or fruits, no pre-packaged anything... no sodas, very limited dairy and creams... and you really do have to read labels carefully for fructose, glucose, dextrose, xanthum gum, yeast, gums, iron and added sugars. [you sub Honey for everything- its actually very tasty].

Anyhow... the first few weeks were MISERABLE. absolutely miserable. I was mad, pissed off, moody, cried... but within 4 days I was able to wear jeans pain-free, no headaches, skin cleared up, and after a week my energy was that of a 4 year old!! Then, gradually my taste buds began to change and things like carrots and peas and mangos were like candy to me! I dropped about 15 lbs almost immediately from excess water retention and God knows how many months of constipation.

I asked my Dr. about this diet and pregnancy and he said as long as you eat a banana everyday you are getting enough carbs to support a fetus.

i just thought i would mention this to mothers-to-be for research purposes only. I'm not pushing this on anyone, but just highly recommend it bc I've found that almost 90% of Celiacs are intolerant to more than just gluten. There could be a dairy or yeast issue there that is causing a bacteria growth and immune reaction.

After being on this diet for 5 months I've been able to add things back in and quickly find out what i AM able to tolerate and what I'm not able to tolerate... ie, I've found that I am a Celiac but I can tolerate wheat & milk... but not yeast, barley, corn, starch and other additives. i continue to do trials, but one at a time. who knows... maybe ill find out i can eat chocolate someday!

anyhow... just a thought. its a very healthy diet as long as you take your B's and Aminos. =)

Sincerely,

Sara

any questions you can email me at seye@core-capital.com

or research online "SCD Diet" or "Breaking the Vicious Cycle"

[Alison]

Hello everyone! I wrote a while ago (look back a few posts) while I was pregnant. I thought it was time to give an update. 3 1/2 months ago I gave birth to a perfect, beautiful girl! She weighed 7 lbs 2 oz and arrived only 4 hours past her due date. For those of you who are worried about the nutrition of the baby or your own nutrition, remember that you and your baby are healthier for being on the gluten-free diet. Because I am gluten-free, my baby is also (I am breast-feeding). She has NO tummy troubles, no gas, and is never "fussy." I truly believe it is because of my diet. Good luck to all!

[dreamhouses]

TO JOHANNA, congratulations on your pregnancy. Be happy...I had two beautiful babies before I was diagnosed. I was dealing with lots of food and chemical allergies at the time, but my body seemed to become stronger and tolerate more with the pregnancies, not less! This boost lasted for years afterwards too. The body works to give the baby what it needs. I think its good timing that you did find out now and can make some good choices on food. I agree you should eat very plainly to get all your good nutrition and be sure of ingredients. Make sure any fried chips and things are not put in oil that had gluten products in them. And order off the internet right away so that you have some safe stuff for variety and to reward yourself for taking great care of your body. Its soooo easy to order and have the treats show up in the mail. Even if it costs a bit more, it is worth it to add a few things in. Make sure that you have information on what is commonly low in a gluten free diet. I know FOLIC ACID AND B 12 can be low, and certainly folic acid is essential for a good pregnancy, and easy to take in a gluten-free supplement. Good luck, Dreamhouses

[Katanya16]

<span style='font-size:14pt;line-height:100%'>Cheer up, Kerri124!!

Of course you can!!</span>

I've had 5 miscarriages in as many years... after going gluten free--damn hidden glutens! But, last week I gave birth to the most beautifu baby boy!!

The tricky part was avoiding hidden glutens--they caused several miscarriages for me. "No new foods!" has been my motto for the past 9 months!

Also, I tested exceptionally low for progesterone, the hormone that "holds" a pregnancy.

My best advice would be to have your progesterone levels checked and adopt the "No new foods!" motto for the duration of your pregnancy.

Good Luck!!

Connie

celiac mother of 2

From Katanya16- Okay I want to take a poll then, how many of you out there have low progesterone levels? This could be a key, all my sisters had low progesterone levels and conceived after being given progesterone pills. I have shown low progesterone levels, but cannot convince my doctor to give me the pills because they keep testing me at the wrong times. I have always suspected that others in my family had celiac disease too, but they refuse to get tested. I am wondering if there is some link between celiac disease and Low Progesterone. Does anyone have any thougths??? Also, does anyone else have a few days of brown spotting before their periods? This is interesting and I think we are finding a link between us.

[ginghamkim]

From Katanya16- Okay I want to take a poll then, how many of you out there have low progesterone levels? This could be a key, all my sisters had low progesterone levels and conceived after being given progesterone pills. I have shown low progesterone levels, but cannot convince my doctor to give me the pills because they keep testing me at the wrong times. I have always suspected that others in my family had celiac disease too, but they refuse to get tested. I am wondering if there is some link between celiac disease and Low Progesterone. Does anyone have any thougths??? Also, does anyone else have a few days of brown spotting before their periods? This is interesting and I think we are finding a link between us.

Hi!

I miscarried the first time and then my Dx put me on progesterone pills for the first 13 weeks. It did the trick...healthy 10 pound boy. My sister miscarried 6 times (bless her heart) and only carried while on progesterone too (she needs to be diagnosed for celiac [chronic kidney stones] but doesn't want to listen to her little sister). Thx.