Navigating Celiac Disease: Personal Journey and Insights for Expectant Mothers
After over 30 years of unexplained health issues such as severe constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, joint pain, migraines, skin rashes, and infertility, I finally discovered the root cause: celiac disease. This revelation came unexpectedly after adopting a cocker spaniel named Peanut, whose need for a gluten-free diet led me to try gluten-free foods myself, significantly alleviating my symptoms.
Initially skeptical, my physician eventually confirmed the diagnosis through a positive blood test for transglutaminase antibodies (tTG-IgA) and an endoscopy. This delayed diagnosis meant years of fertility struggles, with multiple pregnancies lost. My experience as an information specialist with the MotherToBaby Utah program has since deepened my understanding of celiac disease, especially regarding its impact on pregnancy.
What is Celiac Disease?
Celiac disease is an inherited autoimmune condition that triggers damaging inflammation in the small intestine upon gluten exposure. This damage impairs nutrient absorption and poses risks like colon cancer and lymphoma. Globally, 1 in 100 people are affected, though many remain undiagnosed.
Celiac Disease and Pregnancy
For women with celiac disease, pregnancy can be challenging due to potential nutritional deficiencies and associated risks such as anemia, lactose intolerance, and osteoporosis. Research indicates higher risks of infertility, miscarriage, and adverse pregnancy outcomes for women with celiac disease.
Hope and Management
Fortunately, adhering to a gluten-free diet often mitigates these issues. My advice to fellow ‘Celiac Sisters’ is to maintain this diet for a healthier pregnancy. Reflecting on my journey, I am grateful for the unexpected intervention that led to my diagnosis and healthier life.
Julia Robertson, CPM, is the program manager for MotherToBaby’s Utah affiliate, a collaboration with the Utah Department of Health and University of Utah, dedicated to educating women about medications and more during pregnancy and breastfeeding. For queries about exposures during pregnancy, reach out to MotherToBaby at 866-626-6847 or visit MotherToBaby.org to access resources and support.
