Anonymous wrote:OP here. Thank you for your comments. They really did make me feel better. I have done a lot of research, and it is true that listeria contaminates raw ground beef. I'm not saying that to belittle any of the comments above. I just want others to know that before they dig into a hamburger that hasn't been cooked to well done. Ground meat should be cooked to 165 degrees F. Medium rare steak is a different story - the bacteria lives on the outside, and when the edges are seared, the bacteria is killed. Healthy bodies are able to fight off the bug with no issues. The problem is with compromised immune systems, such as in pregnancy. And unborn babies have practically zero immune system, so they are extremely susceptible. I realize that it very rare to get it, even then. It just depends on what happens when it enters the body. I really just wanted to hear - "I ate it, and we turned out okay."
Yes, I have anxiety. I do see a therapist regularly. I have been unable to take medication (4+ years TTC, remember?). That will totally change once our family is complete. I have a hormone deficiency that contributes to both my anxiety and fertility issues. I appear to be like any other normal functioning person. I hold down a decent job. When I've told my doctor about my anxiety in the past, she just sort of pat me on the shoulder and said it can't possibly be as bad as I project. It's disappointing, really. I paid for therapy out of pocket until my insurance decided to cover it. I feel bad for people who don't have that option. My DH is fabulous. He has known me for all of my adult life, and he's very sensitive to my fears. He grew up vegetarian, so he's used to it, and we have dabbled in vegetarianism before. And, just to make another thing clear - the last two mcs were chromosome related. We don't know the cause of the first one, but I can tell you I was over-the-moon excited and not nearly as anxious.
I am not a troll. Just a real-life woman who has a wanted to be a mother for as long as she can remember.
OP ignore the wretched trolls on this thread.
I have anxiety disorder that I treat with CBT. My anxiety was much worse in pregnancy because of the hormones involved, so I understand why you are having a hard time.
I really would take the advice that you can't control everything in pregnancy, so worrying and stressing won't help. Sometimes we all accidentally or intentionally take risks -- it's part of life, and it happens no matter what. You can't be hermetically sealed for the duration of your pregnancy, and even if you were,
bad things can still happen (not that they will, but you can see that the illusion of control is just that -- an illusion -- and you can let go a little).
I indeed have eaten rare burgers during both of my two pregnancies, and everything worked out fine. I've even eaten sushi or other "off limits" things here and there. Listeria contamination really isn't as common as you'd think in foods -- it's a possibility but not a certainty. All is fine with my kids: one DC is 3 and so very healthy (we're talking, doesn't even catch colds levels of healthy). One is 1 and is so smart and energetic.
You really have almost nothing to worry about. And even if you did worry, what good would that do? The anxiety would just tank your immune system more! Just try to remember that worrying after the fact won't change any outcomes except to introduce more stress and interfere with your life and your happiness.
If your therapist doesn't do CBT, find someone to talk to who does. It's perfect for anxiety disorders when you can't medicate.
Congratulations on the baby, and I am sure you are both going to be just fine.