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I Was Told My Pain Was a Pulled Muscle: Giggie’s Story

I Was Told My Pain Was a Pulled Muscle: Giggie’s Story

I was 22 and two weeks postpartum after having a complicated delivery of my first and only baby. I began having intense back pain when breathing or moving, so I contacted my midwives, OB/GYN, and PCP. They all told me that it was a pulled muscle and prescribed muscle relaxers.   

I took one dose and realized they were not safe for breastfeeding and stopped. I was in constant agony for a week. My PCP agreed to see me and then ordered a CT, stating she did not think anything would come of it. It turns out I had multiple blood clots in both lungs, or pulmonary emboli.   

I was prescribed blood thinners and stayed on them for six months. Since I was breastfeeding, I had limited options and had to have INR checks multiple times a week. If my providers had listened to me and paid attention to my symptoms, I would not have been left waiting for over a week while in such severe pain.  

Now, I’m more of an advocate for knowing the signs and symptoms of blood clots, and I make sure to enjoy life to the fullest. 

Resources

Women and Blood Clots
Know Your Risk
Psychological Impact of Blood Clots

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The personal story is intended for informational purposes only. The National Blood Clot Alliance (NBCA) holds the rights to all content that appears on its website. The use by another organization or online group of any content on NBCA’s website, including patient stories that appear here, does not imply that NBCA is connected to these other organizations or groups or condones or endorses their work. Please contact info@stoptheclot.org with questions about this matter.

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