MY PREGNANCY JOURNEY: A ROLLER COASTER OF CHALLENGES AND BLESSINGS

On May 21, 2023, I embarked on a new chapter of my life: marriage. Shortly after, in July, I noticed that my menstrual cycle was off, and I was grappling with severe constipation. A visit to the doctor revealed that I was pregnant. Mentally unprepared and with a deep-seated phobia of delivery pain, I nonetheless embraced this news as a divine gift.?

The journey that followed was anything but smooth:

Month 2: Severe constipation

Month 3: Morning sickness

?Month 4: Heavy vomiting's.

?Month 5: Severe gastric problems.

?Month 6: Fever, cold, and a severe cough.

?Month 7: During a routine check-up, I was diagnosed with pre-diabetes. An immediate growth scan revealed high amniotic fluid levels and a shortened cervix. Urgently, I was advised to get admitted to Niloufer or Rainbow Hospital.

At Rainbow Hospital, I underwent a cerclage surgery, costing ?1 lakh, but it failed within a week. I was told that further treatment could cost between ?50-60 lakhs, an amount far beyond my middle-class means. Throughout this time, I had regular check-ups at the SR Nagar Government Hospital, where I received excellent care. However, due to pressure from those around me, I sought private care at Zoi Hospital with Dr. Priti Chella, whose lack of clear communication contributed to my deteriorating condition.

I went to Niloufer Hospital after being referred by SR Nagar Gov Hospital, but I felt scared because the doctors there were rude and harsh. On Dr. Sravya’s advice from Poornima Maternity Hospital, I admitted myself to Rainbow Hospital for the cerclage due to its comprehensive facilities, leading to the aforementioned experience.

COMMERCIALIZATION OF MATERNITY CARE:

Maternity care has unfortunately become a business. Schemes like Arogyasri, Ayushman Bharat and other central and state government programs are not honored at private hospitals, which is disheartening. Rainbow Hospital, in particular, was exorbitantly expensive, with many unnecessary charges.

After the failed surgery, unable to afford the hefty private hospital bills, I returned to Niloufer Hospital.

CONCLUSION:

Despite the hardships, on February 24, 2024, I was blessed with a preterm baby girl at Nilofer hospital. Both of us are now in need of your blessings and prayers. Thank you for taking the time to read my story.

A FINAL REQUEST:

Every pregnancy journey is distinct. It's crucial to avoid judging pregnant women. I've faced criticism from some coworkers, along with a few relatives, and friends. Let's strive to provide support and understanding to each other.

Stay tuned for my next post where I will share my detailed experiences with Niloufer Hospital.