After three years of living abroad, I have come to accept/ignore/understand certain cultural differences between East and West. However, some things are even beyond me, and the following is one of them. In my opinion, it's a case of taking 'saving face' way too far.
Along with dealing with the doctors in regards to baby's small size and lower than normal amniotic fluid level, we can now add my high blood pressure, aka gestational hypertension. I have no other symptoms to indicate pre-eclampsia, which is a good thing. At the first sign of this 2 weeks ago, my doctor tells me once again that I am too high risk, and she can't continue my care at her hospital. She wants to now pass me off to the general hospital, which I absolutely hate. The general hospital reminds me of a cross between a less than desirable nursing home and a mental institution. The staff and doctors are nice and the medical care is up to par, but the environment is incredibly creepy. It's the last place I want to be, and the really last place that I want to deliver and stay in.
The doctor gave me no choice, and my liaison, too felt her decision to brush me off was a little premature. BUT, Korean culture keeps my liaison from speaking her mind because she is younger than the doctor.
I found another private hospital with similar facilities to the one I like to try my luck there. I was also turned away after they discovered my high blood pressure. The liaison at this hospital finally gave me the explanation I had been seeking. My first thoughts were that my doctor was simply not confident. That is not the case. Because there is a chance that I may need to deliver early due to high blood pressure or low amniotic fluid levels, this must be done at a general hospital with a NICU. That, I can understand. What I couldn't understand was why I couldn't continue my care at the hospital I liked until or if such a situation did arise. The liaison explained that if the hospital continued to see me, and then I needed to go and deliver at the general hospital because of a problem, it would make the hospital look bad and embarrass the doctor because it appears that the doctor did not catch my condition early and made a mistake.
This makes absolutely NO SENSE, but saving face is always more important than anything else it seems. Understandable but 100% ridiculous.
There is still hope that I will get to deliver in the private hospital that I want to. I can resume my care at the private hospital after my 35th week, since I would be considered full-term at that time. I just have to suffer through 7 more appointments at the creepy hospital...Yes, I have to be seen once a week.
The good news is that the doctor at the general hospital seems to have less flare for the dramatic than most of the Korean doctors in this country. He is not too worried about my condition, and keeps the dramatics to a minimum.
I will explain Korean dramatics. Just imagine soap opera acting. It is very easy to get sucked in if you let it, but I have become immune. For example, my radiologist was visibly disappointed that he could find no legitimate reason for my smaller than normal baby. He was even more disappointed that his incredibly negative assessment of an uneventful ultrasound did not spark fear, crying, or other hysterics from me or Darius. He simply received an mmhmm, and a thank you for my CD. Even the liaison who helped me at the general hospital today has a slight flare for the dramatic. Using a soap opera like tone to tell me for the millionth time that my amniotic fluid is low and baby is a week smaller than she should be. Again, my response was simply, I know and mmhmm... As I was leaving, she again told me not to worry. To which I replied, I'm not the one that's worried. What they don't realize is that unlike other Koreans, I don't take the doctor's word as gospel, and take some responsibility for my own care.
I know good and well that if her measurements are within 2 weeks of her gestational age, she is considered normal. I also know that while my amniotic fluid levels are on the low side, they are still on the low side of normal. So, it drives them crazy when I don't react with soap opera-like flare every time they try to give me some sort of less than ideal news. It's become quite entertaining to me as they try by repeating what they said or rephrasing it as if I didn't understand what they were trying to tell me the first time in attempt to illicit a different reaction.
OH KOREA!
Monday, August 6, 2012
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Week 24
Over the past month, I have seen my doctor more that I have seen my students. I think we will be good friends by the end of this. I have been sentenced to weekly appointments with my OB. This wouldn't be so bad if my doctor's office wasn't located 20 miles away in another city. A typical appointment day looks like this:
- Take a taxi from my apartment to the train station. 5 minutes, $2.00
- Take the train to Daegu. 30-40 minutes, $4.00
- Take another taxi to the Hospital 10-15 minutes, $7.00
- Wait 0-30 minutes depending on how busy the office is...
- See doctor for 10 minutes $30.00
- Take another taxi back to the train station 10-15 minutes $7.00
- Take the train to Yeongcheon 30-40 minutes, $4.00
- Take another taxi back to my apartment. 5 minutes $2.00
I do this once a week. This is turning into a very expensive, albeit worth every penny experience.
However, one must always find something positive, right? So, my weekly treat to myself is going to Starbucks, since we don't have one in my city, and sitting down to a Chai Tea Latte and a bagel.
Thankfully, the news given to me at my appointments has been getting better and better week after week. While there is still room for improvement, i.e. my amniotic fluid levels are still low, baby girl is continuing to prove just how much like me she is going to be. Meaning, the best way to get me to do something is to tell me I can't, I shouldn't, or it's impossible. Meaning, Darius and I will have our hands full. She has been growing every week, and she is now on target for her weight, head and abdomen measurements. Her little legs, they measure the femur bone, are still 2 weeks behind. However, seeing as how I don't even reach the 5 foot mark, and my older sister is 4'8'', I think her short little legs just might be her genetics.
For those of you reading this because you have stumbled upon my blog because you too are experiencing low amniotic fluid levels, read on. Everyone else can skip this part. I believe that a person's medical care is just as much the patient's responsibility as it is the doctor's. So, after doing a lot of research on the Internet, I came up with my own method for doing what I can to improve my amniotic fluid levels and keep baby happy. This is what I did. First, I am never without a glass of water in my hands. I am constantly drinking all day and all night until I go to bed. I read that you should also drink at least one sports drink a day. I either drink a Gatorade, a Vitamin Water, or the dreaded Coconut water. The coconut water has the least amount of calories, but it is one of the worst tasting liquids ever created. I have almost completely sworn off all coffee drinks, even the decaf ones. This is because coffee is a diuretic. I have had to quit exercising completely, per doctor's orders. I do still work full time, but I stand and walk only when absolutely necessary. I also take it easy when I am at home. If it's not necessary, I don't do it. Lots of liquids, lots of rest, and I have also changed my diet. I have been trying to eat a little here and a little there throughout the day. It takes an hour for the nutrients you eat to reach your baby, so I try to be mindful of that and eat often. I have also let go of my strict eating regimen and am eating some foods with a higher fat content, more carbs than I normally would allow myself to consume, and protein with EVERY meal. I don't know if any of this has actually helped, or it's purely coincidental. However, I'm not willing to test it.
So, thank you all so much for your thoughts and prayers. However, please don't let up! The doctor says as long as she is continuing to grow as she should, she can stay put. However, if room is getting scarce in there, we will be seeing baby girl much sooner than we thought. Let's pray she stays put until October!
Next week will be our second Level II ultrasound, which is just a much more detailed viewing done by a specialist. I saw this doctor during my 12th week, and I am not a fan of his. However, beggars can't be choosers when your limited to doctors who can also speak English. The last time I saw him, his news and his bedside manner were both terrible. So let us pray that he is both in a better mood and he has better news.
Monday, June 11, 2012
Wait and See....Wait and See
Wait and See...a phrase used quite often and is always easier said than done. My younger sister and I have both developed an OCD level of planning everything. She, however, is much worse that I am, but that is beside the point. So, when the doctor tells me we just have to wait and see, this throws me into some sort of warped sense of I don't know what. It is driving me insane!
No one likes to be the bearer of even less than ideal news, and that is why it has taken me such a long time to get around to actually writing this out. To be honest, I am still hopelessly confused on just what is going on and just how upset or panicked I should actually be. I hope that you can see how this would add to the mania of my planning OCDness.
According to two doctors and a radiologist my amniotic fluid levels are dangerously low. After reading through a gazillion articles on the subject, no one can really agree on the how, the what, the _____ (Fill in the blank). According to the doctors here, this is a cause for concern. Worst case scenario is she could simply run out of space to grow, and she will be slowly crushed to death. Not something you want to hear nor repeat...but there it is. Options given to try and rectify this situation: NONE.
However, that is worst-case, and for now she is growing and moving around in there enough to make me feel motion sick. A few of her kicks or punches, not sure which, have startled me to the point of taking my breath away. So, I'm taking that as a good sign that she still seems to have enough room in there. I am currently visiting the doctor weekly to keep up with her progress, and to continue to measure the amniotic fluid. However, after digging through some medical journal articles, I am comforted that most seem to think that measuring the amniotic fluid by ultrasound alone is highly inaccurate and causes much unnecessary stress and concern for mothers-to-be. They also claim in several studies that even trying to measure the amniotic fluid volume before 24 weeks is even more inaccurate. I am currently at 21 weeks.
I have realized that these doctors are so overly cautious, and I have read journal article after journal article that back my observations. In convincing my original OB/GYN to continue seeing me, the liaison confided in me that they were simply scared of the responsibility of dealing with anything less than a perfect pregnancy. It seems that doctors are even more scared of being sued here than they are in the states. Because of this, doctors here and in the US will scare women into inducing early to save their own skin and to reduce the doctor's responsibility for your baby's outcome. Many articles have been written screaming for these doctors to leave these babies in as long as possible, but I am jumping ahead.
At my last appointment she again commented on how low the fluid was. She had the audacity to recommend simply giving up this pregnancy and starting again. There is nothing that can be found that is physically wrong with this baby. There is no medical reason for even suggesting termination at this point, but again, this reduces her liability as my doctor. Many of you would shout that I should find a new OB, however, that is the standard practice in this country. Another doctor told me the same thing, because he felt it would be easier. This is also the same country who refuses to submit it's statistics on C-sections versus natural births to world health organizations. Why would they refuse? Because the Korean doctors are currently under scrutiny by their own government for their dishonest ways in talking women into have C-sections rather that opt for a natural birth. According to the articles I read, Korean doctors prefer C-sections because they can schedule them at their convenience and in accordance with some law, it limits their liability should complications occur. It is such a problem that the National Health Insurance Company will no longer reimburse the doctors as much as they used to unless a C-section is deemed medically necessary. Scary and disgusting isn't it?
After refusing her suggestion, the next thing out of her mouth is that fine, we will continue to monitor the baby once a week, and she wants to induce as soon as possible, which is anytime after 26 weeks. Thankfully, I have the last say in this, and our plan is to keep this baby where it belongs as long as possible. I realize that the fact remains that it doesn't look I will be able to make it to full-term, but we're gonna try to get as close as we can. So, keep us in your thoughts and prayers. Pray for competent, responsible doctors, accurate testing, and a healthy baby born at her appointed time and not the doctor's appointed time.
No one likes to be the bearer of even less than ideal news, and that is why it has taken me such a long time to get around to actually writing this out. To be honest, I am still hopelessly confused on just what is going on and just how upset or panicked I should actually be. I hope that you can see how this would add to the mania of my planning OCDness.
According to two doctors and a radiologist my amniotic fluid levels are dangerously low. After reading through a gazillion articles on the subject, no one can really agree on the how, the what, the _____ (Fill in the blank). According to the doctors here, this is a cause for concern. Worst case scenario is she could simply run out of space to grow, and she will be slowly crushed to death. Not something you want to hear nor repeat...but there it is. Options given to try and rectify this situation: NONE.
However, that is worst-case, and for now she is growing and moving around in there enough to make me feel motion sick. A few of her kicks or punches, not sure which, have startled me to the point of taking my breath away. So, I'm taking that as a good sign that she still seems to have enough room in there. I am currently visiting the doctor weekly to keep up with her progress, and to continue to measure the amniotic fluid. However, after digging through some medical journal articles, I am comforted that most seem to think that measuring the amniotic fluid by ultrasound alone is highly inaccurate and causes much unnecessary stress and concern for mothers-to-be. They also claim in several studies that even trying to measure the amniotic fluid volume before 24 weeks is even more inaccurate. I am currently at 21 weeks.
I have realized that these doctors are so overly cautious, and I have read journal article after journal article that back my observations. In convincing my original OB/GYN to continue seeing me, the liaison confided in me that they were simply scared of the responsibility of dealing with anything less than a perfect pregnancy. It seems that doctors are even more scared of being sued here than they are in the states. Because of this, doctors here and in the US will scare women into inducing early to save their own skin and to reduce the doctor's responsibility for your baby's outcome. Many articles have been written screaming for these doctors to leave these babies in as long as possible, but I am jumping ahead.
At my last appointment she again commented on how low the fluid was. She had the audacity to recommend simply giving up this pregnancy and starting again. There is nothing that can be found that is physically wrong with this baby. There is no medical reason for even suggesting termination at this point, but again, this reduces her liability as my doctor. Many of you would shout that I should find a new OB, however, that is the standard practice in this country. Another doctor told me the same thing, because he felt it would be easier. This is also the same country who refuses to submit it's statistics on C-sections versus natural births to world health organizations. Why would they refuse? Because the Korean doctors are currently under scrutiny by their own government for their dishonest ways in talking women into have C-sections rather that opt for a natural birth. According to the articles I read, Korean doctors prefer C-sections because they can schedule them at their convenience and in accordance with some law, it limits their liability should complications occur. It is such a problem that the National Health Insurance Company will no longer reimburse the doctors as much as they used to unless a C-section is deemed medically necessary. Scary and disgusting isn't it?
After refusing her suggestion, the next thing out of her mouth is that fine, we will continue to monitor the baby once a week, and she wants to induce as soon as possible, which is anytime after 26 weeks. Thankfully, I have the last say in this, and our plan is to keep this baby where it belongs as long as possible. I realize that the fact remains that it doesn't look I will be able to make it to full-term, but we're gonna try to get as close as we can. So, keep us in your thoughts and prayers. Pray for competent, responsible doctors, accurate testing, and a healthy baby born at her appointed time and not the doctor's appointed time.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Modern Medical Technology: Friend or Foe?
Due to the whirlwind roller coaster ride that I allowed my doctors to take me on, I have maintained radio silence. I have since found the emergency stop button, and have let myself off.
It's been a ridiculous week and a half. I left my 16-week doctor appointment with a two thumbs up from the doctor, and instructions to come back in a month. Later that same week, I get a call saying that my blood tests that were done to measure my MAFP levels were off. This test is a screening test for Down's, Edward's and Neural Tube Defects. Mine came back with a higher than normal result for a possibility of a neural tube defect. I allowed myself to panic about this as she continued talking about babies with no brains. She then told me I would need to come in for an amniocentesis right away.
I'm not crazy about needles, especially ones that are inserted in my stomach and cost nearly $1000 out-of-pocket. I had been warned about the Korean Medical system and their somewhat questionable fund raising tactics. So, I did my research. I looked up all the possible things a neural tube defect could be. I looked up ultrasound images of those with and without neural tube defects and compared them to my own images. If I could clearly see that my baby had a head and a brain inside her head, why couldn't the doctor? These Korean doctors just love us self-diagnosing Westerners. Koreans don't question. They simply do what they are told. Not me. I emailed her back with 'my findings' and told her that everything I read suggested that an amniocentesis was really the last thing you should try. A Level 2 ultrasound, for instance, is usually the next step to look for problems of this nature. I got the run around, and I was told that it would take more than a month to get a Level 2 ultrasound scheduled. This is why the doctor felt amniocentesis would be better since it could be done sooner and is 99% accurate. Did I mention that the Level 2 Ultrasound costs about $150 and the amnio $1000?
Initially, my impatient self and my need for immediate answers led me to agree to this procedure. As always, however, God seems to step in. When we went in for the procedure, she discovered that my amniotic fluid levels were too low, and an amniocentesis would not be possible. Miraculously, in light of this new information, she was able to schedule me for a Level 2 Ultrasound for that same day. So, I was able to avoid the needle and the 1:1000 risk for a miscarriage. The radiologist wasn't able to find any indication of a neural tube defect, but he did confirm my amniotic fluid levels were 50% of what they should be. He also found echogenic bowel, which could mean most likely nothing, an indication of Down's, a fetal infection, blah, blah, blah.
So great, more stuff to worry about. I left the clinic feeling no less worried than when I went in. It didn't help that shortly after I got a call from OB simply stating that she would be referring me to another OB for my care. After all of that, she still felt that I should have an amniocentesis, but she didn't feel comfortable performing it herself. So, I made a new appointment for an amniocentesis with the new doctor. He, of course, couldn't get me in until 2 days before I am to fly home for my sister's wedding, which meant I couldn't go home. Non-refundable ticket...so my amnio would now be costing me more than $2000.
And then, there it was...my epiphany. I'm not an idiot. I can read. I had the radiology report. I read it. I took a step back, and thought over all the information that had been thrown at me in the last 48 hours, and soon realized that when you put it all together it was simply ludicrous and madness. The devil is so crafty...so, so crafty!
What does the devil do? He comes to steal, kill, and destroy. I reminded myself that the test that started this madness was simply a screening tool and not a diagnostic one. The false-positive rate is ridiculously high, and no one should really give it that much thought. Originally, they told me my risk of Down's was super low. My problem area was a possible neural tube defect not Down's. They never would have requested an amniocentesis test based on my risk assessment for Down's. So now, after the radiologist clearly told me several times that he can't see any problems, does my doctor still think an amniocentesis is necessary? Because of the minute, very minute risk of Down's based on a picture that could be absolutely and most likely is nothing at all? The light went on finally. Even if that were the case, no test is going to change or correct Down's. So, why would I pay for a test that won't change anything, won't allow the doctors to fix anything, miss my sister's wedding, miss work, and risk losing a perfectly healthy baby all for the sake of a test in which the outcome will be the outcome whether I know it in advance or not? The devil really is a sneaky fellow.
In one act of fear, I could have destroyed a perfectly healthy baby and wasted more than $2000 doing it. And to what end?
Not only that, but all this worry and running around with our heads cut off has made me lose weight, and I have lost a much needed week of study for my upcoming GRE test. With all of the above thoughts, there was no way I could make myself concentrate on GRE test prep.
So, let this be a lesson to all of those who are here in Korea and at home alike who might someday be put in this very position...A quote from my wise mother, " Don't let the doctors talk you into borrowing trouble."
I am not angry with my doctors, and will still be going to my original OB. I spoke to her today, and explained to her my logic, which she agrees makes sense. It is her job to think of worst case scenario. It's my job to listen and sort through what lines up with God's word and His plan for my life and what doesn't. I'm so thankful for my mom and dad-in-law who know just this, and continuously remind me when I forget.
It's been a ridiculous week and a half. I left my 16-week doctor appointment with a two thumbs up from the doctor, and instructions to come back in a month. Later that same week, I get a call saying that my blood tests that were done to measure my MAFP levels were off. This test is a screening test for Down's, Edward's and Neural Tube Defects. Mine came back with a higher than normal result for a possibility of a neural tube defect. I allowed myself to panic about this as she continued talking about babies with no brains. She then told me I would need to come in for an amniocentesis right away.
I'm not crazy about needles, especially ones that are inserted in my stomach and cost nearly $1000 out-of-pocket. I had been warned about the Korean Medical system and their somewhat questionable fund raising tactics. So, I did my research. I looked up all the possible things a neural tube defect could be. I looked up ultrasound images of those with and without neural tube defects and compared them to my own images. If I could clearly see that my baby had a head and a brain inside her head, why couldn't the doctor? These Korean doctors just love us self-diagnosing Westerners. Koreans don't question. They simply do what they are told. Not me. I emailed her back with 'my findings' and told her that everything I read suggested that an amniocentesis was really the last thing you should try. A Level 2 ultrasound, for instance, is usually the next step to look for problems of this nature. I got the run around, and I was told that it would take more than a month to get a Level 2 ultrasound scheduled. This is why the doctor felt amniocentesis would be better since it could be done sooner and is 99% accurate. Did I mention that the Level 2 Ultrasound costs about $150 and the amnio $1000?
Initially, my impatient self and my need for immediate answers led me to agree to this procedure. As always, however, God seems to step in. When we went in for the procedure, she discovered that my amniotic fluid levels were too low, and an amniocentesis would not be possible. Miraculously, in light of this new information, she was able to schedule me for a Level 2 Ultrasound for that same day. So, I was able to avoid the needle and the 1:1000 risk for a miscarriage. The radiologist wasn't able to find any indication of a neural tube defect, but he did confirm my amniotic fluid levels were 50% of what they should be. He also found echogenic bowel, which could mean most likely nothing, an indication of Down's, a fetal infection, blah, blah, blah.
So great, more stuff to worry about. I left the clinic feeling no less worried than when I went in. It didn't help that shortly after I got a call from OB simply stating that she would be referring me to another OB for my care. After all of that, she still felt that I should have an amniocentesis, but she didn't feel comfortable performing it herself. So, I made a new appointment for an amniocentesis with the new doctor. He, of course, couldn't get me in until 2 days before I am to fly home for my sister's wedding, which meant I couldn't go home. Non-refundable ticket...so my amnio would now be costing me more than $2000.
And then, there it was...my epiphany. I'm not an idiot. I can read. I had the radiology report. I read it. I took a step back, and thought over all the information that had been thrown at me in the last 48 hours, and soon realized that when you put it all together it was simply ludicrous and madness. The devil is so crafty...so, so crafty!
What does the devil do? He comes to steal, kill, and destroy. I reminded myself that the test that started this madness was simply a screening tool and not a diagnostic one. The false-positive rate is ridiculously high, and no one should really give it that much thought. Originally, they told me my risk of Down's was super low. My problem area was a possible neural tube defect not Down's. They never would have requested an amniocentesis test based on my risk assessment for Down's. So now, after the radiologist clearly told me several times that he can't see any problems, does my doctor still think an amniocentesis is necessary? Because of the minute, very minute risk of Down's based on a picture that could be absolutely and most likely is nothing at all? The light went on finally. Even if that were the case, no test is going to change or correct Down's. So, why would I pay for a test that won't change anything, won't allow the doctors to fix anything, miss my sister's wedding, miss work, and risk losing a perfectly healthy baby all for the sake of a test in which the outcome will be the outcome whether I know it in advance or not? The devil really is a sneaky fellow.
In one act of fear, I could have destroyed a perfectly healthy baby and wasted more than $2000 doing it. And to what end?
Not only that, but all this worry and running around with our heads cut off has made me lose weight, and I have lost a much needed week of study for my upcoming GRE test. With all of the above thoughts, there was no way I could make myself concentrate on GRE test prep.
So, let this be a lesson to all of those who are here in Korea and at home alike who might someday be put in this very position...A quote from my wise mother, " Don't let the doctors talk you into borrowing trouble."
I am not angry with my doctors, and will still be going to my original OB. I spoke to her today, and explained to her my logic, which she agrees makes sense. It is her job to think of worst case scenario. It's my job to listen and sort through what lines up with God's word and His plan for my life and what doesn't. I'm so thankful for my mom and dad-in-law who know just this, and continuously remind me when I forget.
Monday, May 7, 2012
Expect the Unexpected From Me and You Will Never Be Surprised
The cat has left the bag, and has completely vanished. The milk has been split, and so it is now appropriate for me to announce it to the world. As the title would suggest, the news I share will come as a shock to, I dare say, everyone that knows me. However, I, any other way, just wouldn't be me.
With such shocking news, I will try to do my best to be better about keeping this updated since for most it will be the only way to keep up with everything. For others, I hope it serves as both a comfort and a source of information for those who have stumbled upon my blog.
Somewhere near the end of October the world will be blessed with a little girl who is half me, half Darius. Look out world, you have no idea what you will be getting yourself into.
Because I can't seem to do anything like a normal person, my first and only child, made in America, will be born in Korea. So, this has been and will continue to be quite an adventure as we navigate through being first time parents in a foreign country with all our family and friends no less than 8,000 miles away.
This is week 16 of our adventure, and I will fill you in as to what has happened so far and how it happened.
I must also preface that what I will share with you will be truthful and honest. I fear my honesty will anger some, horrify others, and entertain most. My honesty will keep me from being admitted to the pregnant lady club as I am about to reveal the deep, dark secrets of pregnancy as I see it.
Deciding to have a baby and do it while we are living in Korea was a conscious decision that Darius and I made with much thought and planning. No surprises here. The only surprise was how quickly everything has happened. Though, I still shock myself that I am still surprised when God gives me exactly what I ask for. As an Implanon user, (if you don't know what this is, don't worry) I had heard that it could take up to a year before I would be able to get pregnant. That, of course, did not fit into my timeline. I had a 6 month window where we would try. If it didn't happen, it didn't happen.
When I went to get my Implanon removed at Hyosung Hospital in Daegu, which, by the way, you can also get them inserted and they speak perfect English, the doctor told me just two things. The first thing was it could take up to a year for me to conceive. The second piece of advice was to "don't wear your husband out." That was it. Most people find Korean doctors to be a little callous. I find them refreshing. They get straight to the point and don't sugar coat anything.
I'm happy to say the doctor was wrong. It only took about 2 weeks from removal to conception. It's a record, I'm sure. You usually hear all of these wonderful stories filled with rays of sunshine of an excited husband and wife huddled over the stick waiting for the 2 blue lines to appear. When the lines do appear the husband and wife shriek with joy and are immediately transported into a bubble filled with rainbows and glitter. This was not the way it happened for me. We we're stateside when I took the test, and so I at least was in the comfort of my home. However, when the two blue lines appeared I think I stopped breathing for, I don't know, hours followed by quite a few panic attacks. I don't care how much you plan, how long you wait, or how confident you are that this is the right time. You will panic. I panicked. I tried to make Darius panic. Everything that had been talk up until that point had suddenly become very real, and it was, to say the least, overwhelming.
Darius, however, was eerily calm and even found my panic a little humorous. He let me freak out, I'm sure for his own entertainment, before he quietly and calmly reminded me that God has never, ever let me down. God gave me exactly what I asked for in exactly the time frame that I wanted. Then, of course, I decided that I must be the craziest person ever to panic about this. However, this would not be my last panic attack.
When we got back to Korea, I called the doctor and told her I had to know immediately if the test was right. I love Korea for their Saturday doctor's hours. That Saturday I went to the doctor who confirmed with an ultrasound that the test was correct. Panic ensued again. This type of panic required the advice of the older sister. I have no idea what time it was in the states when I called her, but she was the only one who was going to be able to shed some light on these ridiculous panicky feelings of mine. I must mention at this point that there were numerous bouts of uncontrollable crying during this time.
After listening to me cry into the phone for a good 5 minutes before I could even speak, my sister laughed at me. I felt guilty for the crying and the panicking of which she told me over and over again during an hour long international phone call that it was hormones and normal. The crying would soon stop, and she explained that my panic simply came from the fact that my life was changing. I know Darius was thankful and would have paid any amount that that phone call would have costed me. Up until that time, he was the only one I had unloaded my panic and tears on. Thankfully, after that phone call, the panic-stricken feelings went away and the crying stopped. Darius should have sent her a fruit basket. Better yet, he should have just sent her a whole dang tree.
The great thing about the Korean medical system is the cost and the services available. Unlike in the states, I get an ultrasound at every doctor's visit. I can also drop by anytime I want to for another one. It is nice, since we are so far away, that all of the ultrasound videos are loaded onto a USB so I can send the videos and have the printouts of each visit. Each ultrasound visit costs about $30.00. I really wish they did this in the states. It is so comforting to hear that heartbeat and see her every 3 or 4 weeks. The doctor visits here are so quick, and you are in an out in less than 30 minutes. Part of the Korean Insurance program is that you also get pre-loaded debit card worth about $500.00 that you can use to pay for your medical bills. You can only use $60 at a time, but it's free money. You simply take the certificate that the doctor gives you proving your pregnant, and take it to a participating bank to pick up the card. You can also go to the post office.
The other great thing about the doctors here is that they are so accessible. For example, Darius has a texting relationship with his doctor. I can email my doctor, and she will respond back to me personally before the end of the day. The foreign liaison who helps translate when needed gives out her personal cell phone number to patients to use 24 hours a day.
So...at 16 weeks baby is healthy. I'm healthy. I'm one of the chosen who didn't have to deal with morning sickness. I've only gained 4 pounds thus far, and I haven't changed my eating habits. I have a theory that (and this is the part that will make some people angry and denied access to the club) pregnancy is simply an excuse to overeat. I don't and won't buy into the garbage line of Baby wants _______ (fill in the blank) If all babies wants and can eat when they come out is breast milk or formula, then why would baby be craving gallons of cookie dough ice cream, bags of potato chips, and any other decadent, disgusting delight that we would normally deny ourselves? If you wanna eat it, eat it. Just don't blame the baby.
I also haven't made my husband a slave to my every whim and desire even though he has taken up some of my responsibilities all on his own. Yes, I am tired. However, I still manage to make it to work, go to my dance class three times a week, make dinner sometimes, study for my GRE, and all the other stuff that I was doing before. Being pregnant for me is a work in progress, and my opinions on these touchy subjects may yet change. But for now, I refuse to be that pregnant lady.
With such shocking news, I will try to do my best to be better about keeping this updated since for most it will be the only way to keep up with everything. For others, I hope it serves as both a comfort and a source of information for those who have stumbled upon my blog.
Somewhere near the end of October the world will be blessed with a little girl who is half me, half Darius. Look out world, you have no idea what you will be getting yourself into.
Because I can't seem to do anything like a normal person, my first and only child, made in America, will be born in Korea. So, this has been and will continue to be quite an adventure as we navigate through being first time parents in a foreign country with all our family and friends no less than 8,000 miles away.
This is week 16 of our adventure, and I will fill you in as to what has happened so far and how it happened.
I must also preface that what I will share with you will be truthful and honest. I fear my honesty will anger some, horrify others, and entertain most. My honesty will keep me from being admitted to the pregnant lady club as I am about to reveal the deep, dark secrets of pregnancy as I see it.
Deciding to have a baby and do it while we are living in Korea was a conscious decision that Darius and I made with much thought and planning. No surprises here. The only surprise was how quickly everything has happened. Though, I still shock myself that I am still surprised when God gives me exactly what I ask for. As an Implanon user, (if you don't know what this is, don't worry) I had heard that it could take up to a year before I would be able to get pregnant. That, of course, did not fit into my timeline. I had a 6 month window where we would try. If it didn't happen, it didn't happen.
When I went to get my Implanon removed at Hyosung Hospital in Daegu, which, by the way, you can also get them inserted and they speak perfect English, the doctor told me just two things. The first thing was it could take up to a year for me to conceive. The second piece of advice was to "don't wear your husband out." That was it. Most people find Korean doctors to be a little callous. I find them refreshing. They get straight to the point and don't sugar coat anything.
I'm happy to say the doctor was wrong. It only took about 2 weeks from removal to conception. It's a record, I'm sure. You usually hear all of these wonderful stories filled with rays of sunshine of an excited husband and wife huddled over the stick waiting for the 2 blue lines to appear. When the lines do appear the husband and wife shriek with joy and are immediately transported into a bubble filled with rainbows and glitter. This was not the way it happened for me. We we're stateside when I took the test, and so I at least was in the comfort of my home. However, when the two blue lines appeared I think I stopped breathing for, I don't know, hours followed by quite a few panic attacks. I don't care how much you plan, how long you wait, or how confident you are that this is the right time. You will panic. I panicked. I tried to make Darius panic. Everything that had been talk up until that point had suddenly become very real, and it was, to say the least, overwhelming.
Darius, however, was eerily calm and even found my panic a little humorous. He let me freak out, I'm sure for his own entertainment, before he quietly and calmly reminded me that God has never, ever let me down. God gave me exactly what I asked for in exactly the time frame that I wanted. Then, of course, I decided that I must be the craziest person ever to panic about this. However, this would not be my last panic attack.
When we got back to Korea, I called the doctor and told her I had to know immediately if the test was right. I love Korea for their Saturday doctor's hours. That Saturday I went to the doctor who confirmed with an ultrasound that the test was correct. Panic ensued again. This type of panic required the advice of the older sister. I have no idea what time it was in the states when I called her, but she was the only one who was going to be able to shed some light on these ridiculous panicky feelings of mine. I must mention at this point that there were numerous bouts of uncontrollable crying during this time.
After listening to me cry into the phone for a good 5 minutes before I could even speak, my sister laughed at me. I felt guilty for the crying and the panicking of which she told me over and over again during an hour long international phone call that it was hormones and normal. The crying would soon stop, and she explained that my panic simply came from the fact that my life was changing. I know Darius was thankful and would have paid any amount that that phone call would have costed me. Up until that time, he was the only one I had unloaded my panic and tears on. Thankfully, after that phone call, the panic-stricken feelings went away and the crying stopped. Darius should have sent her a fruit basket. Better yet, he should have just sent her a whole dang tree.
The great thing about the Korean medical system is the cost and the services available. Unlike in the states, I get an ultrasound at every doctor's visit. I can also drop by anytime I want to for another one. It is nice, since we are so far away, that all of the ultrasound videos are loaded onto a USB so I can send the videos and have the printouts of each visit. Each ultrasound visit costs about $30.00. I really wish they did this in the states. It is so comforting to hear that heartbeat and see her every 3 or 4 weeks. The doctor visits here are so quick, and you are in an out in less than 30 minutes. Part of the Korean Insurance program is that you also get pre-loaded debit card worth about $500.00 that you can use to pay for your medical bills. You can only use $60 at a time, but it's free money. You simply take the certificate that the doctor gives you proving your pregnant, and take it to a participating bank to pick up the card. You can also go to the post office.
The other great thing about the doctors here is that they are so accessible. For example, Darius has a texting relationship with his doctor. I can email my doctor, and she will respond back to me personally before the end of the day. The foreign liaison who helps translate when needed gives out her personal cell phone number to patients to use 24 hours a day.
So...at 16 weeks baby is healthy. I'm healthy. I'm one of the chosen who didn't have to deal with morning sickness. I've only gained 4 pounds thus far, and I haven't changed my eating habits. I have a theory that (and this is the part that will make some people angry and denied access to the club) pregnancy is simply an excuse to overeat. I don't and won't buy into the garbage line of Baby wants _______ (fill in the blank) If all babies wants and can eat when they come out is breast milk or formula, then why would baby be craving gallons of cookie dough ice cream, bags of potato chips, and any other decadent, disgusting delight that we would normally deny ourselves? If you wanna eat it, eat it. Just don't blame the baby.
I also haven't made my husband a slave to my every whim and desire even though he has taken up some of my responsibilities all on his own. Yes, I am tired. However, I still manage to make it to work, go to my dance class three times a week, make dinner sometimes, study for my GRE, and all the other stuff that I was doing before. Being pregnant for me is a work in progress, and my opinions on these touchy subjects may yet change. But for now, I refuse to be that pregnant lady.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
The Dreaded Doctor Visit
After being in Korea for two years, I have only had to go to the doctor a handful of times. However, that was a handful too many. I can't say that the medical care isn't good here, but it has made me appreciate the privatized medical system we complain about so much in the states. Korea has a government sponsored national healthcare plan. Enrollment is not optional, and it covers what you would expect it to. This type of system is both good and bad.
First, the good. Medical care is relatively inexpensive here. A doctor visit, and a trip to the pharmacy may only cost me about $5.00 out of pocket. For the most part, you can get in and out of the doctor's office here faster that you can fill out the forms at the reception desk in the states.
Now, the not so good. Everyone has coverage, and everyone takes full advantage of that. People go to the hospital for every little sniffle, cough, scraped knee, paper cut, and stomach ache. I think the Koreans find us Americans quite odd that we don't feel it necessary to visit the doctor for the flu, a cold, a headache, or even a fever. Because of this, the waiting room at the hospital resembles Black Friday crowds waiting outside in the cold for a deal on a new TV. From the looks of things, there isn't a lot of money to be made in the medical field. There doesn't seem to be competition among the hospitals and clinics for patients. I say this because the facilities remind me of a 1970s horror movie relying on the yellow lighting in the dingy hallway of the psych ward to bring about a sense of terror and fear in the viewers. It is truly terrifying. There are no pretty paintings in the elaborate entryway, no clean and quiet elevators, no cafe serving Pizza Hut pizza and Starbucks, etc. Imagine a mental hospital in a horror movie, and that is what most of the hospitals I have seen around here look like. Along with that, imagine all the creepy psych patients wandering around in their hospital gowns dragging along their IV. I've never been in a patient room at the hospital, but they must be bad. I see patients wandering aimlessly inside, outside, and in the vicinity of the hospital grounds. If you ever come to Korea, and see an old man in a hospital gown dragging his fluorescent yellow colored IV bag at the 7-11, don't be alarmed. That just means there's a hospital nearby.
Fortunately, I was able to find the exception to the rule, as far as Korean hospitals go. I discovered Hyosung Hospital. This hospital works closely with the American military bases in Daegu, and it is reflected in both appearance and in practice. They have an International clinic for the waygooks, and manning the reception desk is a wonderful, wonderful lady. Many hospitals do have an international clinic with a person available, who can speak some English. BUT, they are not, I repeat, NOT, created equal.
Miss Ku is a wonderful and pleasant woman, who speaks, not just English, but fluent English. There is no need to speak slowly, or try to find the simplest explanation for why you are there. She is just as fluent on the phone as she is in person, and actually answers her phone! She doesn't simply point you in the direction of the doctor's office, and send you on your way to wander the halls. She takes you straight to the doctor, and stays with you to interpret, if needed. She is also on call 24/7.
The hospital itself is very modern and nicely decorated. This hospital doesn't give me the creepy feeling that the crazy guy from Saw is going to jump out any moment to start hacking me apart. I felt even more at home when I had to wait 30 minutes to see the doctor. The doctor was great, and was the first doctor I had seen in Korea, in which I felt confident of his abilities.
After my appointment, it was time to pay. And, again, Miss Ku was there to make sure I was in the right line, and to make sure my bill was correct. She wrote out what every charge was for, and seems to understand an American's need to question everything on it. At other places, you are simply given a bill in Korean with no explanation of what you are actually paying for. If you question it or dispute it, the answer is simply, "you must pay it." Korea, in general, is not in the practice of asking why, or questioning anyone who has an ounce of authority.
All in all, I would recommend Hyosung Hospital to anyone. The last place you want to really feel like your in a foreign country is in the hospital, and this hospital certainly doesn't look or feel that way.
Contact information and directions:
Hyo Jeong Ku
Office: 053-766-7073
Cell: 010-3026-3206
Email: oh-khj@hanmail.net
Website: http://hshp7070.cafe24.com/eng/
Address: #105-2 Jung-Dong, Susung-Gu in Daegu. (Click the link at the bottom of the post to see the map)
Directions: The easiest way to get there is to get off at Daegu Bank station on the green line. Then, take a taxi to Hyosung Hospital. (Hyo-sung byeong-won)
I took a taxi there from Banwoldang station, and the fare was about 5,000W.
First, the good. Medical care is relatively inexpensive here. A doctor visit, and a trip to the pharmacy may only cost me about $5.00 out of pocket. For the most part, you can get in and out of the doctor's office here faster that you can fill out the forms at the reception desk in the states.
Now, the not so good. Everyone has coverage, and everyone takes full advantage of that. People go to the hospital for every little sniffle, cough, scraped knee, paper cut, and stomach ache. I think the Koreans find us Americans quite odd that we don't feel it necessary to visit the doctor for the flu, a cold, a headache, or even a fever. Because of this, the waiting room at the hospital resembles Black Friday crowds waiting outside in the cold for a deal on a new TV. From the looks of things, there isn't a lot of money to be made in the medical field. There doesn't seem to be competition among the hospitals and clinics for patients. I say this because the facilities remind me of a 1970s horror movie relying on the yellow lighting in the dingy hallway of the psych ward to bring about a sense of terror and fear in the viewers. It is truly terrifying. There are no pretty paintings in the elaborate entryway, no clean and quiet elevators, no cafe serving Pizza Hut pizza and Starbucks, etc. Imagine a mental hospital in a horror movie, and that is what most of the hospitals I have seen around here look like. Along with that, imagine all the creepy psych patients wandering around in their hospital gowns dragging along their IV. I've never been in a patient room at the hospital, but they must be bad. I see patients wandering aimlessly inside, outside, and in the vicinity of the hospital grounds. If you ever come to Korea, and see an old man in a hospital gown dragging his fluorescent yellow colored IV bag at the 7-11, don't be alarmed. That just means there's a hospital nearby.
Fortunately, I was able to find the exception to the rule, as far as Korean hospitals go. I discovered Hyosung Hospital. This hospital works closely with the American military bases in Daegu, and it is reflected in both appearance and in practice. They have an International clinic for the waygooks, and manning the reception desk is a wonderful, wonderful lady. Many hospitals do have an international clinic with a person available, who can speak some English. BUT, they are not, I repeat, NOT, created equal.
Miss Ku is a wonderful and pleasant woman, who speaks, not just English, but fluent English. There is no need to speak slowly, or try to find the simplest explanation for why you are there. She is just as fluent on the phone as she is in person, and actually answers her phone! She doesn't simply point you in the direction of the doctor's office, and send you on your way to wander the halls. She takes you straight to the doctor, and stays with you to interpret, if needed. She is also on call 24/7.
The hospital itself is very modern and nicely decorated. This hospital doesn't give me the creepy feeling that the crazy guy from Saw is going to jump out any moment to start hacking me apart. I felt even more at home when I had to wait 30 minutes to see the doctor. The doctor was great, and was the first doctor I had seen in Korea, in which I felt confident of his abilities.
After my appointment, it was time to pay. And, again, Miss Ku was there to make sure I was in the right line, and to make sure my bill was correct. She wrote out what every charge was for, and seems to understand an American's need to question everything on it. At other places, you are simply given a bill in Korean with no explanation of what you are actually paying for. If you question it or dispute it, the answer is simply, "you must pay it." Korea, in general, is not in the practice of asking why, or questioning anyone who has an ounce of authority.
All in all, I would recommend Hyosung Hospital to anyone. The last place you want to really feel like your in a foreign country is in the hospital, and this hospital certainly doesn't look or feel that way.
Contact information and directions:
Hyo Jeong Ku
Office: 053-766-7073
Cell: 010-3026-3206
Email: oh-khj@hanmail.net
Website: http://hshp7070.cafe24.com/eng/
Address: #105-2 Jung-Dong, Susung-Gu in Daegu. (Click the link at the bottom of the post to see the map)
Directions: The easiest way to get there is to get off at Daegu Bank station on the green line. Then, take a taxi to Hyosung Hospital. (Hyo-sung byeong-won)
I took a taxi there from Banwoldang station, and the fare was about 5,000W.
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