February 2008 Expecting Club

Hi

I am just wondering if there is anyone else out there who lives with a painful chronic condition?  I have had rheumatoid arthritis since I was in my early twenties (I'm 34 now).  It's been a roller coaster ride, but fortunately I've been able to have two beautiful little boys (2years old, 4 weeks old) While I am pregnant my disease completely goes into remission, I feel better than I ever do.  When my oldest son was about two months old, the arthritis came back with a vengence.  So far, I do not have it back yet, but my little guy is just going to be 4 weeks old tomorrow.  I DREAD when it comes back and I am so scared of living with the pain again.  I have not been on any medication since trying to conceive, but I know that at the first sign of it coming back I'll have to start the meds again.  Unfortunately 2 of the 3 meds are NOT safe during breastfeeding.  I am getting along sooo well breastfeeding that it is going to make me very sad to have to stop because of my meds.  But I know from last time that it is better for me to be healthy and to be able to take care of my boys.  Last time with my oldest, I let the arthritis get a bit ahead of me before starting the meds.  I nursed my first boy for three months (but pushed it as far as the arthritis goes) and I hope to be able to go that long with this guy.  I know I shouldn't feel bad or guilty I just wish it wasn't this way.  I try to look on the bright side, at least I was able to breastfeed for as long as I could and I get to enjoy it while I do......anyone else live with something similar???

Hey. I read your post today. I have been so busy with my son that I have limited online time. But I have a chronic condition...I have Multiple Sclerosis. I am 25 and was diagnosed with it almost 2 years ago. This was my first child. I am not looking forward to having any of my MS symptoms come back...I stopped taking my meds bc of a reaction I had to them...but the doctor was wanting me to go on something different but I told him I was trying to get pregnant...just like you described, I didnt have any symptoms during my pregnancy at all and I was told that I should be put on meds immediately after I had my child. I have an upcoming appt with my doctor that I am not looking forward too. I am praying that I wont have any signs of the MS ever again...but I know that it can attack at anytime with a vengence so Im just trying to stay positive and not think about it. I hope things continue to go well for you so that you can continue your breastfeeding...are you having a hard time resting/sleeping since you had your baby?