The Pain Does Go Away

After several years of writing on this blog, I had never experienced the opportunity to really connect with anyone who happened upon it. Until I wrote the post about having pain in my upper abdominal/rib cage and middle back. Hundred and hundreds of women from all over the world have searched for this topic on some search engine and ended up on this blog. Many many women have left their own personal stories in the comments of that particular post, and many have checked back to let us know that they had successful pregnancies. I, too, had a successful pregnancy. What's more is that from all of those who replied after giving birth, we can all attest to the fact that the pain subsided after delivery. Which, I think we can all agree, was a blessing.

It's sad to me that so many women all over the world are experiencing these same symptoms during their pregnancy, and seemingly, no one - not one of us - can get an explanation for it from our doctors. In fact, in many cases, our doctors have either blown it off or guessed at what it might be; which does nothing for either the pain or our peace of mind.

What is further frustrating is that many of us have female OBs, whom I would THINK would be a little more interested in finding out what the problem is. In my experience, she was the least concerned of all my doctors. (I rotated among 3 OBs within the practice so whomever was on-call when I went into labor I would know and they would know me).

For anyone new to this site that is experiencing the same pains as the rest of us, take heart, it does go away (unless, of course, you do have a gall bladder or pancreas issue). I would urge you to continue to inform your doctor(s) of the pain, and the level of it, as you move through your pregnancy; and, if you are able, to check into every possibility of what it could be to eliminate any serious threats to you or your baby. The specialists won't be able to do many of their routine tests due to the pregnancy, and they may even look at you like you're crazy (because, "Hello? You're Pregnant, Lady. You're supposed to be in pain."....Really? I AM? I'm supposed to be in THIS MUCH pain?! I don't think so, Mr. Bigshot Doctor-Man!), but I believe in my heart that it is better to check into it than ignore it. Because, really, the pain will not be ignored. It hurts.

Finally, I found the chiropractor to be somewhat effective; though not everyone would probably agree. It is a temporary relief, and let me stress again, t.e.m.p.o.r.a.r.y. The prenatal massage feels great, but once you put your clothes back on, it's all over. The adjustments worked better for me personally, and would relieve my rib pain for up to an hour or so, but then it would gradually come back. I was fortunate enough to have my insurance cover both of those things, but truly, if I had to pay for it out of my pocket, I would not have gone as often as I went.

So, to close this post, CONGRATULATIONS to all you new mamas out there who suffered right along side me. I was so glad to know I was not alone, and also, not crazy.

I hope all of you and your new families are doing well.