‘I had same condition as I’m A Celeb contestant and couldn’t close eye or feed my newborn’

A woman shares her journey of facing Bell’s palsy during pregnancy, leaving her unable to close her eyes or feed her newborn. Gemma MacKinnon, 33, experienced pain in her ear days before her daughter, Mary, was due. Initially thinking it was a cold, she woke up one day unable to close her eye and experienced facial drooping. Diagnosed with Bell’s palsy, Gemma had to wait until after giving birth to receive treatment. Bell’s palsy causes temporary weakness or paralysis on one side of the face.

Following a scheduled c-section, Gemma struggled to see to feed her newborn due to her condition. She underwent a round of steroids and took three months to fully recover. Despite noticing a slight physical difference post-recovery, Gemma feels grateful to be able to talk and smile again. She acknowledges the challenges she faced during that time, especially with feeding her baby.

Gemma, who also dealt with hyperemesis gravidarum during pregnancy, initially mistook symptoms for a cold. The day before Mary was born, Gemma’s condition worsened dramatically, leading to her diagnosis of Bell’s palsy. Despite coping alone postpartum due to Covid restrictions, Gemma received treatment and gradually saw improvements over a few weeks.

Struggling with eating, drinking, and talking, Gemma’s recovery journey included a course of steroids which eventually allowed her to speak normally and close her eye. While she still notices some effects on the left side of her face, she appreciates the progress made. Gemma remains grateful for her recovery, especially when giving birth to her son, Magnus, without complications related to Bell’s palsy.

Gemma highlights that everyone’s recovery journey from Bell’s palsy is unique, referencing singer Tulisa Contostavlos’s differing approach to managing the condition. Gemma’s experience sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals dealing with Bell’s palsy, especially during significant life events like pregnancy and childbirth.

Insights:
Gemma MacKinnon’s story highlights the emotional and physical toll faced by individuals dealing with Bell’s palsy, especially during critical life stages like pregnancy and early motherhood. Her journey of recovery serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges, showcasing resilience and determination in overcoming adversity. Gemma’s openness about her experience also raises awareness about Bell’s palsy and the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment to support recovery and well-being.