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Pregnancy & Fibromyalgia
I've had Fibromyalgia since I was a teenager and I have gone through one pregnancy already, but at the time I hadn't been diagnosed properly for the ailments that I have.
It's now round two, I am pregnant again, and I'm wondering about good suggestions to help maintain lower levels of pain. Last time I was put on bed rest at 8 1/2 months and that was torture for my sciatica nerve. I'm trying to stay active and strong. I've been going through physical therapy and things of that nature.
So what helped you deal with fibro pain during pregnancy?
It's now round two, I am pregnant again, and I'm wondering about good suggestions to help maintain lower levels of pain. Last time I was put on bed rest at 8 1/2 months and that was torture for my sciatica nerve. I'm trying to stay active and strong. I've been going through physical therapy and things of that nature.
So what helped you deal with fibro pain during pregnancy?
I've actually answered my own question about Apple Cider Vinegar. It's a Probiotics which fights yeast infections. *wink* thanks for that mention! It also helps reduce blood pressure which I did not know.
I can see this being added to my morning and afternoon regimen now! :D
I can see this being added to my morning and afternoon regimen now! :D
Hi again! Sorry it took so long to get back with you.
Oil Pulling, honestly I hadn't heard of it before so after reading this I googled the term and WOW I'm super excited! I'm going to try this!! My husband has a genetic disease with his mouth/teeth so I'm going to encourage him to try this as well. Another awesome use for Coconut Oil!! Muahaha. I Love It!
Apple Cider Vinegar - This is another staple in my home. It has amazing uses for the skin, hair, and home cleaning. I did not know that acid was really good for internal use. Can the Malic Acid in it help aid against feminine yeast problems?
I am taking Protonix for my acid reflux. The acid reflux is so frequent that I could sit with a bottle of Pepcid Complete and use four - five while eating one meal. It is a problem I have had since I extremely young (2-3 years old) Without the medication it isn't a question of how often does it happen, but how often does it NOT happen.
Now I have read/heard what you are talking about. That the problems could be because my stomach is not making enough acid. To be honest I have not investigated this further other than reading about it.
I am unsure if Dr. Hyman is the author I have been reading about Fibro and controlling it through more natural means, but I have taken steps to step away from the medications and listening to my body better. Dumping processed carbs have been one of the top best pain fighting measurements I have taken. I do eat more high fiber complex carbs, but not too frequently, and I typically make my own from scratch using good products and staying away from anything "enriched" and processed.
I have heard a lot of wonderful things about 5-HTP. Although I do not suffer from much depression problems I do suffer from sleep problems. 5-HTP supposedly helps produce the serotonin you need which consequently helps produce the melatonin for sleep. I do have problems with quality sleep. I have gone through a sleep study to rule out any sleep apnea or RLS, thank heavens that isn't an issue. I have problems completing the proper sleep cycles people should. Thus my sleep isn't restful enough which does contribute to pain levels.
For the past five years or so I finally took my health into my own hands and I have concentrated on one thing at a time. Both my parents passed on too early in age, and I don't want that for myself. So Better health, better habits, and a better life has been very important to me. Although the finances are not always the easiest I make do and I have done major life altering better living habits. I am always open to more information and other's input. I'm not perfect, and I relapse from time to time, but I never give up!
I just really wanted to say thank you for taking the time to respond to my posts. I really am grateful for it.
Oil Pulling, honestly I hadn't heard of it before so after reading this I googled the term and WOW I'm super excited! I'm going to try this!! My husband has a genetic disease with his mouth/teeth so I'm going to encourage him to try this as well. Another awesome use for Coconut Oil!! Muahaha. I Love It!
Apple Cider Vinegar - This is another staple in my home. It has amazing uses for the skin, hair, and home cleaning. I did not know that acid was really good for internal use. Can the Malic Acid in it help aid against feminine yeast problems?
I am taking Protonix for my acid reflux. The acid reflux is so frequent that I could sit with a bottle of Pepcid Complete and use four - five while eating one meal. It is a problem I have had since I extremely young (2-3 years old) Without the medication it isn't a question of how often does it happen, but how often does it NOT happen.
Now I have read/heard what you are talking about. That the problems could be because my stomach is not making enough acid. To be honest I have not investigated this further other than reading about it.
I am unsure if Dr. Hyman is the author I have been reading about Fibro and controlling it through more natural means, but I have taken steps to step away from the medications and listening to my body better. Dumping processed carbs have been one of the top best pain fighting measurements I have taken. I do eat more high fiber complex carbs, but not too frequently, and I typically make my own from scratch using good products and staying away from anything "enriched" and processed.
I have heard a lot of wonderful things about 5-HTP. Although I do not suffer from much depression problems I do suffer from sleep problems. 5-HTP supposedly helps produce the serotonin you need which consequently helps produce the melatonin for sleep. I do have problems with quality sleep. I have gone through a sleep study to rule out any sleep apnea or RLS, thank heavens that isn't an issue. I have problems completing the proper sleep cycles people should. Thus my sleep isn't restful enough which does contribute to pain levels.
For the past five years or so I finally took my health into my own hands and I have concentrated on one thing at a time. Both my parents passed on too early in age, and I don't want that for myself. So Better health, better habits, and a better life has been very important to me. Although the finances are not always the easiest I make do and I have done major life altering better living habits. I am always open to more information and other's input. I'm not perfect, and I relapse from time to time, but I never give up!
I just really wanted to say thank you for taking the time to respond to my posts. I really am grateful for it.
Hi Susan.
You're one of the few people here that read my -often long- posts in their entirety.
You're my kind of a person,lol! Coconut oil buff, fan, affection-ado.
Do you also do oil pulling with it?
There's not much research on Tartaric Acid, but the main premise is that it interferes with metabolic processes (Kreb's cycle) is a Malic acid antagonist (malic acid is essential in metabolism).
Tartaric acid feeds off yeast metabolites, which need carbohydrates to grow
and is very prevalent in Fibromyalgia. That's why (in part) it helps when on a low carb diet, since Tartaric Acid is a tissue toxin associated with pain and fatigue as I mentioned earlier.
Malic acid supplements can be taken to counter the effects of tartaric acid.
Raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar is one of the best food sources, if you can take this. Twice daily, 1T before breakfast and same before lunch or dinner.
May I ask you what are taking for acid reflux and is it for GERD (not necessarily the same, depends on frequency of acid reflux)?
GERD symptoms are the same for too much gastric acid or NOT enough.
You may be able to treat your acid reflux symptoms for good or at least manage it well without the need for medication, regardless.
There's a descent website if you're interested in this. Just google Dr. Mark Hyman. This is not an endorsement for his books, but I love his approach
in addressing the root cause of serious and chronic illness.
For some reason I have a strong sense that your fibro is treatable, once you get the underlying cause identified. Wouldn't this be great?
I didn't mean to tire you, so please respond at your own convenience.
Have fun with the boys!!
Niko
You're one of the few people here that read my -often long- posts in their entirety.
You're my kind of a person,lol! Coconut oil buff, fan, affection-ado.
Do you also do oil pulling with it?
There's not much research on Tartaric Acid, but the main premise is that it interferes with metabolic processes (Kreb's cycle) is a Malic acid antagonist (malic acid is essential in metabolism).
Tartaric acid feeds off yeast metabolites, which need carbohydrates to grow
and is very prevalent in Fibromyalgia. That's why (in part) it helps when on a low carb diet, since Tartaric Acid is a tissue toxin associated with pain and fatigue as I mentioned earlier.
Malic acid supplements can be taken to counter the effects of tartaric acid.
Raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar is one of the best food sources, if you can take this. Twice daily, 1T before breakfast and same before lunch or dinner.
May I ask you what are taking for acid reflux and is it for GERD (not necessarily the same, depends on frequency of acid reflux)?
GERD symptoms are the same for too much gastric acid or NOT enough.
You may be able to treat your acid reflux symptoms for good or at least manage it well without the need for medication, regardless.
There's a descent website if you're interested in this. Just google Dr. Mark Hyman. This is not an endorsement for his books, but I love his approach
in addressing the root cause of serious and chronic illness.
For some reason I have a strong sense that your fibro is treatable, once you get the underlying cause identified. Wouldn't this be great?
I didn't mean to tire you, so please respond at your own convenience.
Have fun with the boys!!
Niko
Thanks for your response!! I don't mind male responses in the least.
I have stopped all medications, but one (that being my medication for acid reflux) No herbal or over the counter product has ever touched that problem. I've had it since I was a very young child. I'm not a big fan of pills anyways so there isn't too much to worry about that.
For the past 6 months I changed my diet dramatically. Artificial sugars have been a culprit to increased fibro problems. Prior I went Gluten free for 6 months, and that was not a trigger, but I keep very careful of my grains sticking to complex ingredients. (I often make my own bread, pastas, etc anymore.)
I'm pretty lucky to live in an area that gives me easy access to communities of natural food items. We have a heavy Amish community here finding organic and naturally raised meats are very easy to get to. We definitely take advantage of our farmer markets and such here.
You mentioned Coconut Oil.... this is a staple must in my house. I have a blog section that's dedicated to coconut oil! LOL If I had only three things I could pack and take with me, Coconut Oil would be one.
I'm not familiar with tartaric acid... I'll be doing some research into that.
I really do need to work more with meditation. I'm not nearly as dedicated to taking that time out for myself as I should be.
I had no idea about Hypnobirthing, unfortunately I will have to have my child via c-section because of other problems. Not the best thing in the world, bbbuuuttt sometimes you have to just bite the bullet.
I will most definitely check out the thread. Thank you very much for your reply, now I must run off it is time for me to go play with my boys! :) take care!
Susan
I have stopped all medications, but one (that being my medication for acid reflux) No herbal or over the counter product has ever touched that problem. I've had it since I was a very young child. I'm not a big fan of pills anyways so there isn't too much to worry about that.
For the past 6 months I changed my diet dramatically. Artificial sugars have been a culprit to increased fibro problems. Prior I went Gluten free for 6 months, and that was not a trigger, but I keep very careful of my grains sticking to complex ingredients. (I often make my own bread, pastas, etc anymore.)
I'm pretty lucky to live in an area that gives me easy access to communities of natural food items. We have a heavy Amish community here finding organic and naturally raised meats are very easy to get to. We definitely take advantage of our farmer markets and such here.
You mentioned Coconut Oil.... this is a staple must in my house. I have a blog section that's dedicated to coconut oil! LOL If I had only three things I could pack and take with me, Coconut Oil would be one.
I'm not familiar with tartaric acid... I'll be doing some research into that.
I really do need to work more with meditation. I'm not nearly as dedicated to taking that time out for myself as I should be.
I had no idea about Hypnobirthing, unfortunately I will have to have my child via c-section because of other problems. Not the best thing in the world, bbbuuuttt sometimes you have to just bite the bullet.
I will most definitely check out the thread. Thank you very much for your reply, now I must run off it is time for me to go play with my boys! :) take care!
Susan
Hey susieQin.
It's funny a guy would be the 1st one to answer your question! lol!
I'm working on a Fibro-wellness program to be finalized next year
and this is another aspect of FMS that conventional medicine has very little to offer, as most pain management drugs are a no-no when expecting a baby.
Even with some half assurances like: "it should be OK" or "there's no evidence that the medication might harm the baby", in my opinion, there are no innocent and harmless drugs in pregnancy, period!
I'd like to err on the side of caution.
The fact is that drug manufacturers are familiar with the risks involved,
so they will not conduct any drug trials involving pregnant women.
Having said this, there are many safe and holistic things you can do on your own.
My suggestions for you while pregnant, while breastfeeding
(if this is your choice and it's possible) -or anytime-in light of no medication or less medication are:
1. Avoid carbohydrates from simple sugars (no artificial sugars either!),
grains, breads, sweets, sodas etc. Stick with plenty of fresh organic vegetables, pastured meat, free range chicken, low mercury fish, some fruit, nuts, seeds,legumes and avoid cooking oils, as when heated they become inflammatory.
You may use quality coconut oil, which does not alter with heat
and because of its medicinal properties, it will help keep the damaging effects of yeast/germ/viral infectious conditions at a minimum!
Visit the coconut research center website for more info.
You will also keep tartaric acid (a tissue toxin associated with fatigue and pain) levels down and help your metabolism function better in the process.
2. Meditation! One of the best ways to manage pain, if it is done correctly!
Consider devoting 1/2 hour daily and give it a couple weeks, till you find yourself getting into it easier.
I meditate daily and I use various ways. One of the easiest ways is by doing conscious deep breathing for meditation.
Another way is to just listen to a meditation CD or YouTube. One of my fave ones is Sonia Choquette's video clips if you want to do a search.
She's my top Spiritual Teacher!
If you don't mind paying, Hypnotherapy, which is something I have trained in and practice, is a wonderful way to manage stress & pain.
It's probably one of the best investments in wellness as long as you book a bundle of sessions (4-6). Some people go once, don't experience dramatic improvement and end up giving up right from the start.
You will also learn to do self-hypnosis, an invaluable tool use in any area of your life!
My daughter is a Hypno-Birthing Instructor and you may want to look into this also,for an easier delivery with substantially less pain for both mother and child with many positive long term benefits.
3. Visit a thread by doing a search in this Community under "IWILLDOTHIS" which I started last year, where you will find many suggestions and tips how to better deal with fibro.
You are welcome to post again or pm me if you need further details or if you have any questions.
Note that this information is not intended as a substitute for medical advice.
I wish you the best for you and your family (beautiful photos!)
and good luck with your pregnancy!
Niko
It's funny a guy would be the 1st one to answer your question! lol!
I'm working on a Fibro-wellness program to be finalized next year
and this is another aspect of FMS that conventional medicine has very little to offer, as most pain management drugs are a no-no when expecting a baby.
Even with some half assurances like: "it should be OK" or "there's no evidence that the medication might harm the baby", in my opinion, there are no innocent and harmless drugs in pregnancy, period!
I'd like to err on the side of caution.
The fact is that drug manufacturers are familiar with the risks involved,
so they will not conduct any drug trials involving pregnant women.
Having said this, there are many safe and holistic things you can do on your own.
My suggestions for you while pregnant, while breastfeeding
(if this is your choice and it's possible) -or anytime-in light of no medication or less medication are:
1. Avoid carbohydrates from simple sugars (no artificial sugars either!),
grains, breads, sweets, sodas etc. Stick with plenty of fresh organic vegetables, pastured meat, free range chicken, low mercury fish, some fruit, nuts, seeds,legumes and avoid cooking oils, as when heated they become inflammatory.
You may use quality coconut oil, which does not alter with heat
and because of its medicinal properties, it will help keep the damaging effects of yeast/germ/viral infectious conditions at a minimum!
Visit the coconut research center website for more info.
You will also keep tartaric acid (a tissue toxin associated with fatigue and pain) levels down and help your metabolism function better in the process.
2. Meditation! One of the best ways to manage pain, if it is done correctly!
Consider devoting 1/2 hour daily and give it a couple weeks, till you find yourself getting into it easier.
I meditate daily and I use various ways. One of the easiest ways is by doing conscious deep breathing for meditation.
Another way is to just listen to a meditation CD or YouTube. One of my fave ones is Sonia Choquette's video clips if you want to do a search.
She's my top Spiritual Teacher!
If you don't mind paying, Hypnotherapy, which is something I have trained in and practice, is a wonderful way to manage stress & pain.
It's probably one of the best investments in wellness as long as you book a bundle of sessions (4-6). Some people go once, don't experience dramatic improvement and end up giving up right from the start.
You will also learn to do self-hypnosis, an invaluable tool use in any area of your life!
My daughter is a Hypno-Birthing Instructor and you may want to look into this also,for an easier delivery with substantially less pain for both mother and child with many positive long term benefits.
3. Visit a thread by doing a search in this Community under "IWILLDOTHIS" which I started last year, where you will find many suggestions and tips how to better deal with fibro.
You are welcome to post again or pm me if you need further details or if you have any questions.
Note that this information is not intended as a substitute for medical advice.
I wish you the best for you and your family (beautiful photos!)
and good luck with your pregnancy!
Niko
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