Help? Too overwhlemed to start ttc

[Anonymous]

I'm more than ready to start ttc but I was recently diagnosed with polycythemia vera and thrombocytosis. These blood disorders increase clots and therefore may compromise placental function. From what I understand, most women my age (26) with PV are diagnosed AFTER multiple m/cs. I have no intention of letting that happen, but what do I do about it!? I'm very concerned about keeping a pregnancy and growing a healthy baby. I assume I need help in the first trimester, before most primips would see a doctor/midwife. Do I skip the regular OB and go straight to an RE or Maternal/Fetal Health specialist? If so which one?
It doesn't help that I believe in the midwifery model of care and hoped to avoid OBs and hospitals all together. My biggest fear had been "high risk" and now it's no baby or unhealthy baby. I guess accepting a new reality and the fact that my body is going to do this on its own is the first step toward a family.
Do you all have any advice for me?

[Anonymous]

I'm so sorry to hear about this. My guess is that you'd be better off with an RE, at least until the end of the first tri-- many specialize in recurrent m/cs, so they may have experience with women like you. I hear you on wanting a midwife -- but maybe you could go to a midwife for labor/delivery even if you can't see one during all of your pregnancy. Good luck with whatever you decide!

[Anonymous]

If you like your OB or midwife, why don't you ask them for a recommendation? There are different types of blood thinners pregnant women take to deal with clotting disorders, everything from the easy baby aspirin to heparin and other prescriptions. Definitely seek out a specialist you trust who takes this seriously. My OB actually discouraged me from seeing an RE until my emotions were raw from multiple miscarriages and I took matters in my own hands. I think once you find a good specialist who can understand the issue and chart out a solid course of action for ttc, you'll feel more in control and excited about ttc. good luck!

[Anonymous]

I would go see your OB and have him/her refer you to a RE. You probably want to check with your insurance company ahead of time to see what RE's are in your plan. If not an RE, then get a referal to a maternal fetal specialist; however, I think they usually only deal with women who are already pregnant.

[Anonymous]

OP here--I don't have an OB. I never intended on seeing one before the PV issue came up. I have my fingers crossed that I can see an RE early on and then a midwife for the rest of my care.

[Anonymous]

Hi OP, I'm a nurse and I love working with midwives, however for situations like yours you need a good OB as your first step.

[Anonymous]

I don't know where you're located, but I'd see if Perinatal Associates at INOVA Fairfax will see you for a consult before you get pg. They can probably tell you what you need to know immediately when you get pg. They would be a great practice for you as they only do high-risk OB. I used them and they were fabulous!