Trusting Facebook Facts: Deciphering Support from Scares
Facebook and social media have completely changed the way we gather and process information. While most of the time the instant access is wonderful and gives us lots of ideas and access to resources, we need to be careful about what we take in.
Recently, there have been a ton of posts on personal accounts that have spread like wildfire across the internet, most recently a few about child trafficking and possible fetal demise from pregnancy symptoms that moms were alerted to by friends.
While we’re grateful for the caution, and also so relieved that these families had wonderful outcomes and are safe with their children, take care in what you read. Many times, the complete information on a subject is clouded by the personal and emotional response of the poster, and while they are recounting their story and their very real feelings and emotional connection to their situation, there may be more in between the lines.
For example, the issue of itching leading to a very true and real pregnancy condition, cholestasis, and causing fetal demise, is good to know and keep in mind. There are specific circumstances, and situations, in which induction sooner rather than later, is in fact recommended for delivery. Luckily, according to ACOG, while fetal demise has been reported, it is extremely rare (0.005% of births born after 39 weeks) and cannot be completely confirmed by liver enzyme secretion from cholestasis alone.
If you are experiencing a symptom that has you concerned, of course you should always contact your care provider. Be sure to ask many questions to gain as much information as necessary. The best way to go about this is using an acronym we refer to as BRAIN:
B - what are the benefits of what is being suggested?
R - what risks are associated with this issue or treatment?
A - are there any alternatives to what is being discussed?
I - what does your own intuition tell you?
N - what will happen if nothing is addressed and pregnancy or birth is allowed to continue?
When seeking information from providers, often using a set list of questions will help you to make the best choice for you and your baby, and feel most supported in your decision. We’re happy that so many mothers are posting about their experiences, and are making the best decisions for them and their babies. Remember that each experience is unique to the poster, and that you alone can determine your best course of action. If you're looking for a place to share your pregnancy with other expecting and new Moms, check out our support group on Facebook! No matter what, you will be supported in your choices!
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