So frustrated!

So I go to a practice that has at least 8 different doctors and so far things have been find but today was just so frustrating I needed to rant about it!

A little background, I'm 33 weeks along with di/di girls. My previous pregnancy ended in unexpected and unexplained fetal death at 40 weeks so while all signs, tests, and screenings are 100% prefect so far, I'm still considered high-risk.

So MONTHS ago when I first was transferred to this practice the doc said that I could work as long as I wanted but that as soon as it was stressing me out he would write me a note and I could stop. I said I was hoping to work right up till the end because my job is 75% riding a desk and only some stairs and lifting stuff. (I'm a librarian.) He said to be prepared to take the last 2-3 weeks to rest since the end would get pretty un-commfy but that we'd make a better determination when we got there.

So I planned my work schedule around leaving about 2 weeks before the girls are due. As the date approaches I'm seeing that the first doc was totally right and it's getting harder and harder to drag myself and 30+ lbs of babies+water on and off the train, up and down the stairs, etc. I've actually been looking forward to taking some time to rest and maybe get ready for these munchkins. I've been working full time to save up enough vacation so we don't starve during my partial-pay medical leave after they are born so I haven't had a real rest since Christmas.

So today at my appointment I'm talking to a different doc and mention that I'm just about ready to stop working and she tells me that unless there's a "grave medical reason" she won't recommend I stop working. (The way she says it is pretty insulting too.)

I'm pretty hurt. I'm not trying to slack off, I'm trying to get some rest. I would never have even considered taking time off before the birth if the first doc hadn't told me I should.

So I go back in two weeks to see ANOTHER doc at the same practice. I'll see what this one says.

 

I am 33 weeks and haven't worked since March 30th, even though my pregnancy has been pretty textbook with no real problems or concerns (except for lately, but that's a different story). I'm a teacher and I'm not coming back next year, and I had days saved up and I took them! My doctor was totally fine with it and signed the paperwork for "modified bed rest due to twin gestation". I do feel like a wuss at times, but I just tell myself that I am doing what is best for me and what is best for them. Your doctor sounds like a beeotch, I would definitely get a second opinion. Who wouldn't say that being able to rest when you want to and take it easy is worse than working? I can understand your frustration and hope you get the answers you want soon.

 

I would definitely talk to another Dr in the group. You need to do what's best for yourself and the babies and I can't believe the Dr said that. Hope it works out for you!

 

I just switched to a MFM practice and am wondering how it will work out seeing a different doctor almost every visit. There are about 12 in the practice. At my previous OB office I had a primary OB but saw each of the other doctors for an appointment, just to meet them and in case my doctor wasn't available for my delivery. At this new practice I never know who I will see.

If I were you I would call back and ask to speak to a nurse or ask specifically for the other doctor to give you a call. I'm sure that writing you a doctor's note for work is something they would take care of over the phone and you shouldn't have to wait a couple of weeks until your next appointment.

 

I totally agree! And don't feel bad at all. I had a textbook pregnancy and was written out at 32 weeks. I rested and made it to my scheduled c at 38 weeks.

 

I agree with everyone else. Make a call!! My OB doesn't have the best bedside manner, but she did tell me (thank goodness) that she would write me out of work whenever "I" wanted it...that she would leave the WHEN up to me. I am so glad, because although I could have used another paycheck, I just couldn't handle even sitting there any more (I had a desk job too - Human Resources). I have been off a week now and am so much more rested and less stressed. Hoping I can make it to 35wks now!!

 

Yes, LIke everyone has said make a call and talk to another doctor. You are far enough along anything could happen! You need your rest for YOU not only your twins.

I stopped working mid April due to doctors orders and I still had complications while not working and was recently admitted for monitoring. Not saying that WILL happen to you but you need to be prepared in these last few weeks.
:aggressive: Get on that phone and talk to someone who may have a little better understanding.

 

We have three OBs in our practice. One said he wanted me out at 28 weeks. Another said I was "entitled" to be out at 28 weeks. The third (who has twins) said she highly suggested leaving at 28 weeks. At 29 I listened to their advice, and have had fewer Braxton Hicks, fewer hot flashes, etc. I am hoping to make it another 3.5 weeks to deliver at 38!

Call the doc. Do not push yourself. Sometimes I feel like I'm being a wimp, but my babies health is more important than my ego and being super employee (so hard for me!!).