Can MBP start in utero?

Hi everyone,

It wasn't until I started seeing my current therapist that any real questions were raised about my upbringing and, more specifically, my mother's parenting methods. As soon as that came up a gigantic can of worms was opened.

Anyway, when going over the history of how mom dealt with me, it became clear that she thrived on visiting doctors with me. During this time in her life, she was in perfect health. There was always something wrong with me, though. Sometimes she would prep me for each visit, telling me to make the injuries seem more painful or the dysfunction more unbearable. I've had over a dozen major surgeries and over 30 minor ones.

That's where I'm confused - is it munchausens by proxy if some of the surgeries were necessary for survival? Her neglect caused those issues, but she would be considered neglectful if the issues WEREN'T addressed with surgery and therapy.

Not all of the surgeries were necessary. I had countless ear operations.

I'm struggling to come to grips with the fact that the one person who I ever wanted to feel unconditionally loved by hates me so much. It feels so wrong... and I don't know what to do about it.

I am so sorry you experienced this all, and so glad that you are seeing someone. It does sound like your Mum had MBP although that is a diagnosis that would have to be made by a professional. Have you read any literature on this? If so does it resonate with you? There is an autobiography about someone who went through this, I will try to find out the name and author for you. I am sorry that the person who is meant to nurture you treated you so. Keep talking hear there are ppl listening.

Cracked

The book is Sickened by Julie Gregory

Cracked

Thank you, Cracked. I will try to borrow that book from the library next time I'm there.

I knew about MBP vaguely based on some media coverage, but never thought it applied to myself. It's my counsellor who recently clued me in to the term and suggested that it may have happened to me. We both agree that, for now, a diagnosis wouldn't make any difference in the outcome but dealing with the trauma and my reactions to it need to happen first.

Thanks for the support!

You are welcome. I think that you and your counsellor are right.

Cracked

I just read the first few pages of Sickened online... wow, yeah that does ring a bell. A little too familiar.

I am sorry. But I hope it helps you.

Cracked