Cholestasis - my story

Today, our girl passed all fetal screenings with flying colors. Here's a little rant about why that matters so much: A week ago, I was diagnosed with a pregnancy complication called Cholestasis. It's difficult to explain, but it really just means that your liver is not functioning well with pregnancy and building up acid that is dangerous for baby. (Some have described it as your body having something of an allergic reaction to being pregnant.) The #1 symptom to look for is itchy skin--all over. My skin began to itch a long time ago, but I just assumed it was a normal part of pregnancy and didn't want to seem like I was being dramatic... So I ignored it. Although this condition is rare, there are too many women finding it too late with devastating consequences. My intention isn't to scare anyone, but I do want women, especially pregnant to start advocating for themselves. If something feels wrong, SAY SOMETHING. Do NOT ignore it. Do NOT think you're being ridiculous. Do NOT allow anyone to belittle your concerns or make you feel less than. We are often told that what our bodies are going through is normal and sometimes it's not. I thank God every day that I spoke up and I try not to wonder what would have happened if I hadn't. Our little girl is doing great and will be monitored so, so carefully. I sometimes feel inadequate, because my body isn't doing its job or because I'm so young and am already starting off with a high risk pregnancy. I think women are just like that. We want to be so strong. We don't want help. We want to keep quiet about our pain. We attach so much value to what our bodies can and cannot handle. We just don't realize how strong we really are and that asking for help doesn't change that.