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At My Wit’s End – Should I Be Nursing My Baby While in a Flare?

Intro:

I’ve had UC for 8 years and I feel as though I’m at a crossroads with it. I’m hoping to find support and feedback from others that can truly relate.

Some more background:

I’m from Pennsylvania and a proud mother of a 9 month old. Being a SAHM has been one of the most challenging and most rewarding achievements of my life. I also have a 10 year old English Bulldog, who was our first baby of the family.

Symptoms:

I’ve had the normal symptoms of UC…urgency, pain, blood and pus. I can only eat eggs, rice and rice pudding.

Sarah’s Story:

Since the birth of my daughter, my UC has been relentless.I’ve been on Uceris, Prednisone twice and now Humira. I occasionally take Colestipol, so I can actually function. I also take Delizcol/Asacol and have for many years. Unfortunately, nothing is working and I’m at my wit’s end. I’ve since started taking a high quality probiotic and L-Glutamine as well as drink plant based protein drinks throughout the day.

Prior to my daughter, my UC would only rear its ugly head every two years or so. It’s amazing what pregnancy and giving birth does to the body. The chances of my husband and I expanding our family further is slim because of my UC.

I used to feel my GI doctor and his office were empathetic but that has since changed. The practice has grown substantially and the one-on-one care has faded. It’s a struggle to get the attention one needs when they feel like they are literally starving to death. I hate how the medical field can turn the care providers cold.

Additionally, I’m still nursing my daughter which is stressful. I’m unsure if I should continue because it may be contributing to my flare up. I have some friends who say to stop and some say to continue. My doctor is unable to provide any assistance in that area either.

I’m starting to feel isolated from the world and the support of friends and family is lacking. I fear my UC will limit what I can do with my daughter as she grows older. I’m sure my husband would like to have his wife back too.

There’s a chance I may end up working from home and get a new job. I’m concerned my flare up will inhibit me from doing so. I miss my health and would like to have my life back. Overall, I need some new advice and guidance.

written by Sarah

submitted in the colitis venting area