A Second Opinion
Today I looked in the mirror, saw that there were at least two noticeable stains on my shirt, and proceeded to walk out the door. What is that? A total giving in and giving up? Oh, it’s so wrong, something I never would have predicted for myself.
Anyway, we were on our way to the pediatrician for Sam’s first well-check with our new doctor. You may remember our last ped, who wanted us to subject him to a Reflux test for no good reason? And made me pretty much stress about every single ounce he ate at every moment of every day for fear that he was underweight and malnourished? Right, that one. Well, we switched, as I said we would, partially because of that fiasco but also because we moved a bit too far away for that office.
I was nervous about this first visit though. What if this doctor made me feel just as stressed about his weight? What if the tests he wanted him to endure were even worse and for even less cause? I even had a dream the other night where the Hubs and I were fighting a whole panel of doctors about whether or not he needed to be tested for whether or not his taste buds worked, a grueling procedure that was to involve ingesting something that was going to make his stomach cramp. So you see, I have been anxious.
Well, the new doctor came in, asked me how things were. I told him a bit about the history of the whole weight thing and how his previous doctors were concerned about it, and then he said . . . wait for it . . . wait for it . . .”I’m not at all worried about that.”
I practically fell over into the examining table. Not worried about it. Not worried about it, people. He said we could cancel our follow up nutritionist appointment, that Sam’s growth was steady and consistent, and that he was just on the small side, some kids are. He thought my description of what he eats sounded good, and talked about how with his metabolism and activity level, he has no worries about his size - that he is healthy. He said everything I have known in my heart this whole time.
And it just makes me think about how much stress and anxiety has been present in our house over this issue, all because of a different doctor having a different opinion. I’m so glad we switched. I so wish I’d met with someone else sooner.
Oh, good! That’s so good to hear. We had a similar experience with our first pedi. He acted like I was a stupid new mom and depriving my baby because I wouldn’t supplement with formula. He was always telling me to do stuff that I never actually did and looking back, I’m glad I didn’t.
Anyway, as soon as our second son was born, we started seeing a new pedi and he’s been GREAT! He’s never questioned my judgement or tried to make me worry needlessly.
I’m glad you’ve found a doctor you like. That’s so important for the health of your kids and your own mental health!
Wow!! This is great news! I am glad you found a doc who is with you. And, sadly, I am with you on the shirt stains. ; )
This is what I hate about the medical field: everything is subjective. Everything is an opinion. There are no answers that are “right” or “wrong” - just that person’s “educated guess.” Ticks me off..
Glad you like your new doc. And that Sam’s appt went so well!
Oh good… Gray is still my “on the small side” kid and growing fine. I’m not concerned and I’m so glad the doctors aren’t either! Rest easy!
Steph
Yeah, I’m so happy. I couldn’t even believe the stuff that other doctor was saying. I often wonder what they are thinking. Are they trying to make something out of nothing so they feel they are doing a better job? I don’t know.
I’m glad this doctor is sane and seems to know what he is talking about. He also sounded very thorough. That’s great news.
Doctors … [eye-roll]. My daughter is a “tiny mighty” — weighing in at a whopping 27lbs at 3 years old. There are infants that weigh more than her. My doctor told me not to worry and that as long as her head circumference grows at the right rate then she’s fine. Her take: food goes to the brain first, the tummy second, the rest of the body third.
p.s. I leave the house with stained clothes all the time.
Nine times outta ten, Mama knows best. Seriously. Be proud of throwing the brakes on that first doctor; you are an attentive, informed mother.
So glad you like your new doc! I tried to leave the house recently with a spot on my shirt and hubby made me change. What’s wrong with that picture?
What a relief that the new doctor has a wiser (and more parent-friendly) perspective! Our She-Twin rode the 3% weight curve for the first FIVE YEARS of her life. Like your doc said, ours stated, “The curves are percentages. In every 100 children there will always be the 3 smallest. Sarah is one of them.”
Wishing you a LONG and HEALTHY relationship with your new doctor. Enjoy the exhale!
that is wonderful! we have gone through this with my nephew for his entire three years of life. It’s all the same, he is just small…
YEAH, Beth, what great news! I’m glad your new doctor made you more relaxed. Both of my kids were on the small size and Dyl still is, but the great thing about being us is that we are all different, right??
My oldest son is always on the extremely low end of the growth charts. He’s probably been the smallest kid in his class since first grade (he’s going into 5th) but his doctor says the same thing - he’s always growing, and there’s nothing to worry about. I’m glad you’ve found a new and better doctor, what a relief!!
It is so nice when it feels like you and the pediatrician are on the same page. I love our ped and even though we moved 20-25 min away from her two years ago, we still make the drive.
Yeah!! I’ve thought a person knows their body way better then any person in a white coat.
finding the right pedi for your family is so important. and also, a mom’s intuition can sometimes be the best thing. follow your gut! (i know it is nice to have a dr. back you up, tho)
Good for you guys. I’m all too familiar with bad medical experiences. It is awful when they cause you so much grief for no good reason.
So glad you’ll be able to dream normal dreams from here on out!
Awesome. We love our pediatrician, too; He’s thorough and competent, but doesn’t make a big deal of things that should not be a big deal.
Glad you found a pediatrician you can trust, and just as importantly, be at ease with.
Yay! That’s good news.
…me again. Hope you don’t mind, but I just tagged you for a meme.
Yay!!! I’m so happy for you! I’m glad you found a good doc. It makes SUCH a difference. What a weight off your shoulders!
Oh, that’s great! And it sounds like you’ve got a good new pediatrician who will listen to you and give balanced advice. That other doc sounded a little reactionary.