Christina was diagnosed with gestational hypertension in the final trimester of her pregnancy and placed on bedrest. She was advised to induce labor at 37 weeks and had to consistently advocate for herself to make it as long as possible before doing so.
She eventually agreed to an induction at 40 weeks and 4 days. After dilating to a 7 within 8 hours, labor stalled and it became evident that an unplanned C-section was necessary to safely deliver her son.
When her son was finally born, he arrived with his own set of challenges. After being born with low blood sugar he was diagnosed with MCAD (Medium-Chain Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase) deficiency, a rare metabolic condition, that changed her postpartum journey drastically.
Connect with Christina on Facebook: Christina Duke, or Instagram @cmarie102
Resources
Needed
Today’s episode is sponsored by Needed. Needed is the leading women’s health supplement brand recommended by nutritionally-trained practitioners. While most perinatal supplements include the bare minimum of the nutrients needed during pregnancy, Needed’s products are based on the latest clinical research and in-practice experience of nearly 6000 practitioners. Needed has all your needs covered, from your prenatal vitamin to pregnancy-specific Pre/ and Probiotics, to egg quality support, sleep, stress, immune and hydration support, as well as your protein needs for blood sugar balance and postpartum healing. Needed’s Complete Plan delivers unparalleled nourishment for every phase — whether you’re trying to conceive, pregnant, or postpartum! Instead of having to pair 6 different products together to meet your needs, I love that Needed has simplified things by bundling together four core products you need, in an easy and flexible monthly plan. Use code BIRTHHOUR for up to 40% off including on monthly plans at thisisneeded.com.