I really should have saved this post to share cute pictures of Henry at Halloween, BUT... I landed myself back in the hospital yesterday at 2am (apparently my "witching hour").
Now I am certainly in until the baby is born. Thursday at 2am I had serious bleeding, like more bleeding than you've seen in a scary movie... disgusting really, but more than that terrifying. Chris was awesome, we managed only to ruin a couple towels in our bathroom (saved our new bedsheets!) and I made it down the stairs without passing out. In hindsight (and based on many comments from nurses at the hospital) we should have called 911, but thankfully we live close and no one is on the road at 2am so we got to Prentice quickly.
Both my Dr. and the high risk OB said that if I had been 32 weeks along or further they would have delivered the baby, BUT because I was only 31 weeks, they wanted to just supervise me closely and hope to keep the baby cooking at least another week if not more. I imagine if I bleed like that again, we will welcome our newest Baby boy into the family!
So what happens now.... well, this AM I had an MRI so they could get a better look at the placenta and my uterus. Boy was that horrible! Not only is lying flat on my back hard with a huge belly uncomfortable, but my huge belly makes it difficult to breathe.... oh and did I mention I am claustrophobic!?! Having to sit in a tube for 45 minutes barely able to breathe was pure torture. I had to come out twice because I started to panic, but I kept telling myself not to be such a baby... Anyway, I should get those results tomorrow I think?
Sometime in the next couple days I will also get a consult from an Oncologist and Radiologist. No, I do not have cancer. Apparently the oncology surgeons are the best in the business so, God forbid, I need reconstructive uterus or worst case scenario, bladder surgery they will be on board to assist in the procedure. They want radiology involved because apparently they can put a stint in the main arteries that serve the uterus region in case I start to hemorrhage or bleed out. They can inflate a little balloon in those arteries to significantly reduce the bleeding, which reduces the need for transfusion and essentially can save my life if, God forbid the bleeding got out of control.
Sounds like a blast huh!?! You know what is crazy, through all this my absolutely worst fear is of course something happening to this baby (although I am confident he will be just fine) but more that I end up with a hysterectomy and losing the ability to have another baby... but can't count those chicken before they are hatched, right?
Anyway... I am safely celebrating Halloween from my hospital room. Hopefully I won't be here through Turkey day, but it is certainly a possibility!
I will continue to update as I have more news... for now... HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
Friday, October 31, 2008
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
31 glorious weeks
I made it to 31! I was getting nervous the last few days because I had a few gigantic blood clots that I swore would throw me back into L&D. Well, they haven't yet! I happened to have a Dr. appt the day after I passed a couple of them so I just went in to talk to the Dr. about it. He seemed only slightly concerned that they were as big as they were and very confident that I will deliver before the magical 37 weeks because clearly I am still bleeding, just a very slow bleed.
Funny story: I had my Dr. appt at 8am on Monday and left the house before Henry was awake (he slept in until 7:30 that day!). Anyway, Chris took advantage of the free time and was organizing some stuff in the garage when Henry woke up. He heard Henry calling for us and when Chris got up to Henry's room, Henry said "mommy and daddy forgot about me". He's funny. He also thought I was back in the hospital since we've left in the middle of the night twice now... no tears though, just kind of matter of fact about the situation! I think he understands when I go to the hospital it is only temporary, so it is a bit easier!
Anyway, aside from that nastiness, I feel ok. I don't do much these days, mostly spend time breaking in our new king bed and catching up on daytime TV. Thankfully our babysitter has been very accommodating and my mom has been able to help out in evenings. One thing is for sure I can't keep up with Henry these days! He's got more energy than a gerbil in one of those running wheels (hey, do they make those for toddlers?)!!!
Next post I'll include some pictures of our little Spiderman!!!
Funny story: I had my Dr. appt at 8am on Monday and left the house before Henry was awake (he slept in until 7:30 that day!). Anyway, Chris took advantage of the free time and was organizing some stuff in the garage when Henry woke up. He heard Henry calling for us and when Chris got up to Henry's room, Henry said "mommy and daddy forgot about me". He's funny. He also thought I was back in the hospital since we've left in the middle of the night twice now... no tears though, just kind of matter of fact about the situation! I think he understands when I go to the hospital it is only temporary, so it is a bit easier!
Anyway, aside from that nastiness, I feel ok. I don't do much these days, mostly spend time breaking in our new king bed and catching up on daytime TV. Thankfully our babysitter has been very accommodating and my mom has been able to help out in evenings. One thing is for sure I can't keep up with Henry these days! He's got more energy than a gerbil in one of those running wheels (hey, do they make those for toddlers?)!!!
Next post I'll include some pictures of our little Spiderman!!!
Friday, October 24, 2008
Homeward Bound
Well, I am going home today. It became a maybe in the middle of the night when I had a little more bleeding as a result of this wonderful cough I got from Henry. I had a few coughing fits last night and that caused me to bleed a little. They said that's "normal" with the placenta previa, so as long as it stops by morning (now) I can still go home. Well, it stopped and I'm drinking Robitussen like Gatoraid so that I won't cough any more! Hopefully I can stay home for a couple weeks, or better yet... till Chris's birthday on Nov. 11!!!!
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Big Boy
Henry and Chris came to visit last night and it went so well! Chris had a sit down with Henry and explained to him that I am in the hospital again, and of course Henry chimes in to say "because my baby brother is sick again" (he's so smart!). Chris went with that and said yes because your baby brother is sick, and then explained that I have to stay here for a few nights but that I will come home as soon as I can.
Well, I think it helped! How amazing is it that we can talk to our 3 year old like an adult and he seems to grasp concepts we previously put past him!
Anyway, so he came in obviously excited to see me and we played, shared some chocolate cake and watched a Sponge Bob movie (not sure why that cartoon is so hilarious to him!?!). They stayed with me for about an hour and when it was time to go, Henry left without a tear! Chris also figured out that there is an escalator from floor 2 to 1, so they get off a floor early so Henry can ride the escalator (he loves them... kind of like a kiddy ride!).
Phew... a sigh of relief for both mommy and daddy!!! I makes both Chris and I feel so much better that we got through our first day with no tears!
Well, I think it helped! How amazing is it that we can talk to our 3 year old like an adult and he seems to grasp concepts we previously put past him!
Anyway, so he came in obviously excited to see me and we played, shared some chocolate cake and watched a Sponge Bob movie (not sure why that cartoon is so hilarious to him!?!). They stayed with me for about an hour and when it was time to go, Henry left without a tear! Chris also figured out that there is an escalator from floor 2 to 1, so they get off a floor early so Henry can ride the escalator (he loves them... kind of like a kiddy ride!).
Phew... a sigh of relief for both mommy and daddy!!! I makes both Chris and I feel so much better that we got through our first day with no tears!
Happy Day (30 wks, 1 day)
Today started out great! I love those days you wake up feeling pretty good (for me that means rested) and you also get good news... Dr. Feldstein came in and he said I can go home tomorrow!!! I am beyond excited because he had me thinking I was here for the long haul!!! He met with a High Risk OB (who saw me when I was in last time) to go over my case and they both decided it was ok for me to go home, here's why:
- My body is tolerating the bleeds very well. My blood count is good, iron levels good and I am seemingly unaffected physically by the blood loss.
- The baby is tolerating the bleeds and contractions very well. What can I say, he's as strong as his brother, growing very big and actually fighting back against each contraction :) In all seriousness though, he has passed all the stress tests with flying colors and is thriving to say the least.
- My amnotic fluid levels are great, so no risk to baby
- My uterus looks great, nice and thick and it does not appear that the placenta is growing into the uterine wall at all (I am at risk for placenta accreta, you can google it if you're curious).
- I live close to the hospital.
So, now we're back in the waiting game... it is inevidable I will bleed again, but hopefully I can hold off for a few weeks! My gut tells me I'll make it to 37 weeks and move forward to my scheduled c-section the first week of December, but we'll see... it is a waiting game.
I included some pictures of my room (I know some of you are curious about the new Prentice)... it's nice. I have a 42" plasma TV, my own bathroom (door is closed), a nice rocker and my comfy bed. There is also a pull-out type bed for guests, but Chris says it isn't too comfy. I also included a picture of my view... not so great. I can't see any trees, which are so fun to watch this time of year.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Back to reality
Well, I have to first say that this post might get long, but bare with me!
First of all, I am back in the hospital. Came in last night around 2am. For those of you who have seen me walking around probably doing too much, not to worry the thought did go through my head that maybe that is why I am here again. HOWEVER, they keep reassuring me that my activity level did not cause the bleeding, however what is most likely is that as the baby grows more strain and pressure is put on the uterus and placenta causing the bleeding.
Anyway, thank goodness that Catie and Michael live so close because they have really been lifesavers with this pregnancy. I had my 3rd bout of bleeding, so Chris and I came back to Labor & Delivery. When I got here they determined that I was not having an active bleed (meaning that I was not continuously bleeding), which is a very good thing. An active bleed would probably mean that Henry and this little guy would have had their birthdays one day apart (Henry's birthday was yesterday for those that didn't know). My vitals are all very good, good blood pressure, heart rate and blood count (meaning my body is handling blood loss well).
I have been having more contractions, and for me any contractions are a very bad thing because it disrupts the uterus and the placenta, which is in a very delicate position. The contractions and cramping has subsided and for the most part I am not bleeding much anymore -thank goodness!
The baby looks great (got to see him in an ultrasound), getting big enough that it is hard to get good profile or body shots - we can only see small parts at a time. His feet and hands are adorable. He is head down and appears to be using the placenta as a pillow. His position doesn't matter much except that when I do have my c-section they can get him out faster and easier if he is in the head down position.
I actually asked my Dr. about how they get around the placenta since it is basically covering up where my old incision was. For those that know anything about the placenta, it is the lifeline for the baby and as soon as the placenta is cut into the baby is in danger. Anyway, he simply said, we make the incision right through the placenta and get the baby out FAST! Once the baby is out they will work on me because the placenta will be harder to get out because of its position.
So what's next. I guess Dr. Feldstein is consulting with the high risk OB to make a decision as to whether or not I am here for the long haul and to discuss when it might make sense to deliver the baby. Obviously hitting the 34 week target is optimal!
As far as me, I am ok but quite honestly very sad to leave Henry and Chris. I also have a certain amount of guilt I guess when it comes to leaving Chris to do everything while I sit on my butt and just "be pregnant". When your 3 year old looks at you and says "mommy will you stay with me for a long time" or "mommy please don't go back to the hospital" or even just simply stops what he is doing to give me a big hug and say "I love you"... trust me it is absolutely heartbreaking to leave him! I know I can get through this but it breaks my heart that I have to hurt him this way. I know, he probably won't remember much of this when he is older, BUT he gets it now and it has been really upsetting to him. He will get through it and so will I... it just kind of stinks!
Signing off for now... will update when I know more!
First of all, I am back in the hospital. Came in last night around 2am. For those of you who have seen me walking around probably doing too much, not to worry the thought did go through my head that maybe that is why I am here again. HOWEVER, they keep reassuring me that my activity level did not cause the bleeding, however what is most likely is that as the baby grows more strain and pressure is put on the uterus and placenta causing the bleeding.
Anyway, thank goodness that Catie and Michael live so close because they have really been lifesavers with this pregnancy. I had my 3rd bout of bleeding, so Chris and I came back to Labor & Delivery. When I got here they determined that I was not having an active bleed (meaning that I was not continuously bleeding), which is a very good thing. An active bleed would probably mean that Henry and this little guy would have had their birthdays one day apart (Henry's birthday was yesterday for those that didn't know). My vitals are all very good, good blood pressure, heart rate and blood count (meaning my body is handling blood loss well).
I have been having more contractions, and for me any contractions are a very bad thing because it disrupts the uterus and the placenta, which is in a very delicate position. The contractions and cramping has subsided and for the most part I am not bleeding much anymore -thank goodness!
The baby looks great (got to see him in an ultrasound), getting big enough that it is hard to get good profile or body shots - we can only see small parts at a time. His feet and hands are adorable. He is head down and appears to be using the placenta as a pillow. His position doesn't matter much except that when I do have my c-section they can get him out faster and easier if he is in the head down position.
I actually asked my Dr. about how they get around the placenta since it is basically covering up where my old incision was. For those that know anything about the placenta, it is the lifeline for the baby and as soon as the placenta is cut into the baby is in danger. Anyway, he simply said, we make the incision right through the placenta and get the baby out FAST! Once the baby is out they will work on me because the placenta will be harder to get out because of its position.
So what's next. I guess Dr. Feldstein is consulting with the high risk OB to make a decision as to whether or not I am here for the long haul and to discuss when it might make sense to deliver the baby. Obviously hitting the 34 week target is optimal!
As far as me, I am ok but quite honestly very sad to leave Henry and Chris. I also have a certain amount of guilt I guess when it comes to leaving Chris to do everything while I sit on my butt and just "be pregnant". When your 3 year old looks at you and says "mommy will you stay with me for a long time" or "mommy please don't go back to the hospital" or even just simply stops what he is doing to give me a big hug and say "I love you"... trust me it is absolutely heartbreaking to leave him! I know I can get through this but it breaks my heart that I have to hurt him this way. I know, he probably won't remember much of this when he is older, BUT he gets it now and it has been really upsetting to him. He will get through it and so will I... it just kind of stinks!
Signing off for now... will update when I know more!
Monday, October 20, 2008
The Party
Henry will offically be 3 tomorrow! His party was a lot of fun! Henry was super excited before the party and couldn't stop jumping up and down! Thankfully we had a lot of help getting ready for the party, so it was a success! We had a hefty crowd of 18 kids and 27 adults... keep in mind we only invited our neighbors and cousins because we wanted a "small" party... efforts were kind of lost but it was a lot of fun regardless! He got some great presents which have kept him happy and entertained!!! The kids had fun decorating pumpkins like monster faces, making monster masks and jumping in our inflatable wrestling rink (bouncy house).Well, I'm absolutely exhausted so I'll have to post more later. I hit 30 weeks this week in my pregnancy! Very excited about that!!!!
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Separation Anxiety
I've received so many emails and phone calls from everyone wondering where I've disappeared to and if I was ok... Yes, I'm doing ok, still very pregnant (29 weeks today) and sleeping in my own bed! The baby is moving around like crazy, but I love that I can actually see him moving around in there. Henry even has been able to feel him and likes to put his head on my belly and talk to his baby brother :)
Henry has managed to define separation anxiety for me, worried I am going away again and wants me or Chris around at all times. I feel so bad we put him through this... any tips? He's had a lot of out bursts and temper tantrums, which is not what we've been accustomed to because he is usually a very laid back kid (wait, maybe we are just experiencing delayed terrible 2's?). Anyway, each day gets better, but I usually go to bed exhausted so I have not been as good about responding to emails, Facebook and blogging!
What I am left to wonder however is how or if I should talk to Henry about the fact that I do eventually have to go back into the hospital (at least for 4 days when the baby is born). I know all kids recover and generally do not remember days away from mommy, so I think we just have to be patient through this whole process!
This weekend is Henry's birthday, a "Monster Party". I'll post some pictures when I have them! I can't believe he is ONLY 3!!! I swear sometimes I feel like I live with a very short teenager!!! We're having a small party (only 18 kids) with just our neighbors and cousins... should be fun!
Have a great week!
Henry has managed to define separation anxiety for me, worried I am going away again and wants me or Chris around at all times. I feel so bad we put him through this... any tips? He's had a lot of out bursts and temper tantrums, which is not what we've been accustomed to because he is usually a very laid back kid (wait, maybe we are just experiencing delayed terrible 2's?). Anyway, each day gets better, but I usually go to bed exhausted so I have not been as good about responding to emails, Facebook and blogging!
What I am left to wonder however is how or if I should talk to Henry about the fact that I do eventually have to go back into the hospital (at least for 4 days when the baby is born). I know all kids recover and generally do not remember days away from mommy, so I think we just have to be patient through this whole process!
This weekend is Henry's birthday, a "Monster Party". I'll post some pictures when I have them! I can't believe he is ONLY 3!!! I swear sometimes I feel like I live with a very short teenager!!! We're having a small party (only 18 kids) with just our neighbors and cousins... should be fun!
Have a great week!
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Portion control revisited
Today I had my 28 week check-up... yes, at the doctor's office already even though I just left the hospital yesterday! Well, they weighed me and guess what... I lost 3 pounds from the last time I was there! I suppose that is proof that portion control really works (or maybe the hospital lied to me when I thought I was eating about 3000 calories a day). I guess one could also theorize that my metabolism just rocks when I'm pregnant!
I attached a picture of a meal... keep in mind the place is the size of our salad plates at home... the pumpkin dessert is about a 1 inch square! That is an egg salad sandwich, peaches & cottage cheese!
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Home Sweet Home
Ahhhhhhhhh, it's nice to be here! I have to be honest that I think I am going to miss the geratic pressure bed they have in the hospital, but I'd trade that for being with Henry and Chris (and Brera) any day!
Gosh, I didn't realize how much Henry actually missed me and understood what was going on. When I got home he was kind of hyper-crazy and couldn't get enough of me. Once he settled down a bit, he stared at me for a second and then said "mommy, you are staying home right? No more hospital?" It was hard not to cry because the seriousness in his face made me realize this was a really hard week on him... I hate that I put him through that! Ok, I did cry but I didn't let him know it!
The other thing Henry said to me was this: "Mommy, I tried to come see you at the hospital but daddy took Gram's keys". Seriously, how can a 3 year old comprehend this let alone say this to me???
My mom watched Henry today and I guess at some point he missed me and got a little teary eyed and asked Gram to take him to the hospital to see me. Literally, Chris accidentally took my moms key's to work with him so she couldn't go anywhere. To get Henry to calm down she had to take all the keys off our key rack and show him they do not work on her car. SO, he simply said, "Gram you can drive mommy's car"... then she had to explain there was no car seat for him in mommy's car.
Let's all hope and pray I don't go to the hospital for an extended period of time again... I don't think I can handle what I would be putting Henry through!
That's it for me.... Now I am off to just take it easy! I have so many reasons not to go back to the hospital for as long as my body can hold off!!!!
Gosh, I didn't realize how much Henry actually missed me and understood what was going on. When I got home he was kind of hyper-crazy and couldn't get enough of me. Once he settled down a bit, he stared at me for a second and then said "mommy, you are staying home right? No more hospital?" It was hard not to cry because the seriousness in his face made me realize this was a really hard week on him... I hate that I put him through that! Ok, I did cry but I didn't let him know it!
The other thing Henry said to me was this: "Mommy, I tried to come see you at the hospital but daddy took Gram's keys". Seriously, how can a 3 year old comprehend this let alone say this to me???
My mom watched Henry today and I guess at some point he missed me and got a little teary eyed and asked Gram to take him to the hospital to see me. Literally, Chris accidentally took my moms key's to work with him so she couldn't go anywhere. To get Henry to calm down she had to take all the keys off our key rack and show him they do not work on her car. SO, he simply said, "Gram you can drive mommy's car"... then she had to explain there was no car seat for him in mommy's car.
Let's all hope and pray I don't go to the hospital for an extended period of time again... I don't think I can handle what I would be putting Henry through!
That's it for me.... Now I am off to just take it easy! I have so many reasons not to go back to the hospital for as long as my body can hold off!!!!
Monday, October 6, 2008
Passing the time...
Hello!
First of all, I have to say catching up on TV hasn't been all that bad. I think I'm ready to vote for our next President (learned a lot these last few days) and I am very caught up on primetime TV!
I also wanted to share my favorite commercial... it's not that time of year yet, but if I was going to give an award, it would go to Stanley Steamer!!! I'm sure you've all seen the commercial where they show this immaculate house with white carpet, then you hear a kid in the backgound shout "Hey mom, Bowser learned a new trick"... then across the screen you see a yellow lab looking dog dragging his butt across the carpet with is front two legs. I'm not sure what that says about my sense of humor, but I laugh outloud everytime!!!
UPDATE: Paperwork went in today to have me released tomorrow (yeah!). I'm excited, maybe I'll pack tonight :) Hopefully you won't hear much from me after I go home!!!
First of all, I have to say catching up on TV hasn't been all that bad. I think I'm ready to vote for our next President (learned a lot these last few days) and I am very caught up on primetime TV!
I also wanted to share my favorite commercial... it's not that time of year yet, but if I was going to give an award, it would go to Stanley Steamer!!! I'm sure you've all seen the commercial where they show this immaculate house with white carpet, then you hear a kid in the backgound shout "Hey mom, Bowser learned a new trick"... then across the screen you see a yellow lab looking dog dragging his butt across the carpet with is front two legs. I'm not sure what that says about my sense of humor, but I laugh outloud everytime!!!
UPDATE: Paperwork went in today to have me released tomorrow (yeah!). I'm excited, maybe I'll pack tonight :) Hopefully you won't hear much from me after I go home!!!
Sunday, October 5, 2008
Bedrest
Dr Feldstein came in this morning (wearing a Cubs shirt!) and said he will definately send me home Tuesday, assuming there is no bleeding. So that's great! He did reiterate however that I need to take it easy. For all of you who know me, "taking it easy" is not something I know how to do well... SO I asked a lot of questions, specific questions, so I could get a feel for what I can and should not do because God knows I do not want to come back here sooner than necessary!
Basically he said "take it easy". To me "taking it easy" means slowing down only slightly but that I can still be in constant movement like I tend to always be in! He laughed I think because he knows I am a bit of a busy body. SO, he got frank with me... he said I need to restrict my activity level, including no walks, cutting back on work, avoiding heavy lifting, avoid stairs (yeah right) or prolonged standing, and resting for a few hours each day (he said to try and be off my feet for at least 5 hours a day)
Ok, that alone took the wind out of me... I barely have 5 hours a day to myself to get stuff done because I spend so much time chasing Henry! Anyway, he said no walks around the block with the dog or Henry, limited time on my feet preparing food and only minimal housework, as long as I do not lift anything.
All that aside, I DO NOT want to come back here until the baby is born, hopefully after 34 weeks so I guess I have to do whatever to keep this kiddo cookin'!
I have to say I am thankful I live in these modern times... I can order groceries online or shop for just about anything online and even order food online! I'm also thankful to have so many people around to help entertain Henry... he's got a little energy these days and likes to play rough!
Signing off to order my "portion controlled" dinner!
Basically he said "take it easy". To me "taking it easy" means slowing down only slightly but that I can still be in constant movement like I tend to always be in! He laughed I think because he knows I am a bit of a busy body. SO, he got frank with me... he said I need to restrict my activity level, including no walks, cutting back on work, avoiding heavy lifting, avoid stairs (yeah right) or prolonged standing, and resting for a few hours each day (he said to try and be off my feet for at least 5 hours a day)
Ok, that alone took the wind out of me... I barely have 5 hours a day to myself to get stuff done because I spend so much time chasing Henry! Anyway, he said no walks around the block with the dog or Henry, limited time on my feet preparing food and only minimal housework, as long as I do not lift anything.
All that aside, I DO NOT want to come back here until the baby is born, hopefully after 34 weeks so I guess I have to do whatever to keep this kiddo cookin'!
I have to say I am thankful I live in these modern times... I can order groceries online or shop for just about anything online and even order food online! I'm also thankful to have so many people around to help entertain Henry... he's got a little energy these days and likes to play rough!
Signing off to order my "portion controlled" dinner!
Friday, October 3, 2008
About nurses...
I've gotten to know a lot of the nurses since I've been here through so many shifts. Last night I had my night nurse in my room until after midnight. We covered the debate, mortgages, racial issues, debt, housing crisis, you name it! I haven't had a conversation like that in A LONG TIME (aka an ADULT conversation uninterrupted)! Generally I'm in Henry's world discussing backhoes, Wiggles and now Spiderman. It was nice but a late night for me... if only I could have been drinking a nice glass of wine and it would have been the closest thing to a girls night out that I've had in awhile! I like my nurses :)
Update on me - not much to update (which is GREAT). Like I mentioned my ultrasound looked good, they are keeping me here until Tuesday mostly so they can monitor any bleeding, blood count, etc. and of course monitor the baby. I am now hooked up to an IV thing (open vein?) so the thing is sticking out of my arm but I don't have the tubes to carry around... basically they can "plug" me in whenever/if ever they needed to for a blood transfusion or for IV fluids. That's fun. I feel somewhat machine like!
I had a Dr. from the Neonatal floor come to meet with me to discuss what will happen when the baby is born (assuming he is coming early, less than 37 weeks is considered preemie). She said they will take the baby right away, get him on heaters and a ventilator to help him breathe. I will get to see him once he's stablized and set up in the NICU. She said that every baby is so different when they born, no matter what the gestitational week, so once again, it is a wait and see. She did reassure me that being at 27 weeks with steriods administered is good for survival . SO, we will hope for the best and hope that the baby can stay put at least another month or more!!!
OH, for those interested in Henry's bowel movements... he is now 2/2 on the potty! Such a big boy!!!!
Have a great night everyone!
Update on me - not much to update (which is GREAT). Like I mentioned my ultrasound looked good, they are keeping me here until Tuesday mostly so they can monitor any bleeding, blood count, etc. and of course monitor the baby. I am now hooked up to an IV thing (open vein?) so the thing is sticking out of my arm but I don't have the tubes to carry around... basically they can "plug" me in whenever/if ever they needed to for a blood transfusion or for IV fluids. That's fun. I feel somewhat machine like!
I had a Dr. from the Neonatal floor come to meet with me to discuss what will happen when the baby is born (assuming he is coming early, less than 37 weeks is considered preemie). She said they will take the baby right away, get him on heaters and a ventilator to help him breathe. I will get to see him once he's stablized and set up in the NICU. She said that every baby is so different when they born, no matter what the gestitational week, so once again, it is a wait and see. She did reassure me that being at 27 weeks with steriods administered is good for survival . SO, we will hope for the best and hope that the baby can stay put at least another month or more!!!
OH, for those interested in Henry's bowel movements... he is now 2/2 on the potty! Such a big boy!!!!
Have a great night everyone!
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Poop!
Our big news today... Henry took it upon himself to poop in the potty! He's been doing great with peeing in the potty for months now, wearing underwear, etc. Pooping has been another issue, he goes to his room, grabs a diaper and asks you to put it on. Not a fight I was ready to fight but encouraged him to go on the potty instead. WELL, someone (we don't know who?) gave him the idea to try to put his poop on a square of toilet paper in the potty... now it is a game and he won his first battle! Chris and I are so proud!
Update on me... I had another ultrasound today, my uterus looks great, no thinning or issues with the placenta growing through the uterine lining, which is awesome. They may do an MRI to take another look, but that is on a wait and see basis. I got a 3-D picture of the little man, but unfortunately didn't get a good look at his face because he had his arm and hand draped over his head (he was being shy). I did get a good look at his butt though... who doesn't love a baby's butt!
Definately here through the weekend, probably until Tuesday. Please update me on you, it is my favorite form of entertainment!
Everyone have fun watching the debates tonight... should be almost as good as Saturday Night Live!
GO SOX!!
Update on me... I had another ultrasound today, my uterus looks great, no thinning or issues with the placenta growing through the uterine lining, which is awesome. They may do an MRI to take another look, but that is on a wait and see basis. I got a 3-D picture of the little man, but unfortunately didn't get a good look at his face because he had his arm and hand draped over his head (he was being shy). I did get a good look at his butt though... who doesn't love a baby's butt!
Definately here through the weekend, probably until Tuesday. Please update me on you, it is my favorite form of entertainment!
Everyone have fun watching the debates tonight... should be almost as good as Saturday Night Live!
GO SOX!!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
A history lesson
I just realized many of you don't know the whole history of why I am in the hospital, so here it goes:
Little baby Skinger, due Dec. 31st 2008, has a placenta that is not cooperating. It is called Complete Placenta Previa, which means the placenta (organ that keeps the baby healthy and growing) is covering mommy's cervix. That causes two problems 1) no way out for the baby! the placenta can not come out before baby or baby dies. 2) bleeding for mommy, most often in 3rd trimester. Bleeding can become severe mommy is at risk for hemmoriging and bleeding to death. Not so much an issue for baby.
SO... at 26 weeks and 3 days, I started bleeding pretty heavily (last Saturday) Pretty much soaked my pants and passed a few blood clots. Needless to say we ended up in Labor and Delivery all day Saturday. NOTE - we were supposed to be leaving for vacation Saturday! Our vacation was already downgraded from Mexico to the Dells, now it's been down-graded once more to Northwestern Memorial Hospital.
Then, at 26 weeks and 5 days (Tuesday 1:30am) I woke up very wet and more bright red blood. I actually thought I was leaking amniotic fluid as well so freaking out a little. The good news is that I just peed myself... how lovely! I'm blaming it on the baby for kicking my bladder too hard! There was also a lot of red blood (which means new blood) Well, all my stats are good, examined by I think every intern in the hospital and my cervix looks good, contractions are not regular (good) and baby is doing great.
SO, they sent me off to get a detailed ultrasound, baby is doing great. The baby is still measuring a little big, which may be beneficial depending on how early he's born. The only two numbers I got was that his forearm bone is just over 5cm long (TINY) and he weighs around 1 1/2 to 2 lbs. Still a peanut and needs to cook a bit longer!!!
I was told this AM I will be in the hospital through the weekend, perhaps longer (hopefully not!). As a precaution they also started me on steriod shots for the baby to help the lungs develop quicker. I guess the maximum benefit from the steriod shots happens the first 48 hours. Ideally I'll make it until 28 weeks, even more ideal is 32. They seem very doubtful I'll hit my targeted 37 weeks, but who knows... I've been examined by anestheology, a high risk OB doctor and many, many interns (as well as my own doctor) so I think I'm in good hands and everyone that needs to know me, has met me. We're supposed to also meet someone from the neonatal unit so we understand our risks at delivering at different stages... good to know, but I'm still hopeful I can hold out until at least 32 weeks!
SO... that's it! Thankfully Chris is home with Henry and able to be there because we were SUPPOSED to be in Mexico this week (or should I say the Dells). As Chris says, this is the most expensive vacation we've never taken!!!
Henry's doing ok, misses mommy for sure.
Little baby Skinger, due Dec. 31st 2008, has a placenta that is not cooperating. It is called Complete Placenta Previa, which means the placenta (organ that keeps the baby healthy and growing) is covering mommy's cervix. That causes two problems 1) no way out for the baby! the placenta can not come out before baby or baby dies. 2) bleeding for mommy, most often in 3rd trimester. Bleeding can become severe mommy is at risk for hemmoriging and bleeding to death. Not so much an issue for baby.
SO... at 26 weeks and 3 days, I started bleeding pretty heavily (last Saturday) Pretty much soaked my pants and passed a few blood clots. Needless to say we ended up in Labor and Delivery all day Saturday. NOTE - we were supposed to be leaving for vacation Saturday! Our vacation was already downgraded from Mexico to the Dells, now it's been down-graded once more to Northwestern Memorial Hospital.
Then, at 26 weeks and 5 days (Tuesday 1:30am) I woke up very wet and more bright red blood. I actually thought I was leaking amniotic fluid as well so freaking out a little. The good news is that I just peed myself... how lovely! I'm blaming it on the baby for kicking my bladder too hard! There was also a lot of red blood (which means new blood) Well, all my stats are good, examined by I think every intern in the hospital and my cervix looks good, contractions are not regular (good) and baby is doing great.
SO, they sent me off to get a detailed ultrasound, baby is doing great. The baby is still measuring a little big, which may be beneficial depending on how early he's born. The only two numbers I got was that his forearm bone is just over 5cm long (TINY) and he weighs around 1 1/2 to 2 lbs. Still a peanut and needs to cook a bit longer!!!
I was told this AM I will be in the hospital through the weekend, perhaps longer (hopefully not!). As a precaution they also started me on steriod shots for the baby to help the lungs develop quicker. I guess the maximum benefit from the steriod shots happens the first 48 hours. Ideally I'll make it until 28 weeks, even more ideal is 32. They seem very doubtful I'll hit my targeted 37 weeks, but who knows... I've been examined by anestheology, a high risk OB doctor and many, many interns (as well as my own doctor) so I think I'm in good hands and everyone that needs to know me, has met me. We're supposed to also meet someone from the neonatal unit so we understand our risks at delivering at different stages... good to know, but I'm still hopeful I can hold out until at least 32 weeks!
SO... that's it! Thankfully Chris is home with Henry and able to be there because we were SUPPOSED to be in Mexico this week (or should I say the Dells). As Chris says, this is the most expensive vacation we've never taken!!!
Henry's doing ok, misses mommy for sure.
Learning Portion Control
Learning Portion Control
That is what I am learning the most about during my hospital stay! The food is good here, they have an actual room service menu so I get to choose every meal daily which is nice. What is even nicer is that they are teaching me portion control. They are nice enough to include the fat content, protein grams and calories with every piece of food they give me. I am SHOCKED and AMAZED at how little adds up to so many calories! I swear I am eating half of what I do normally and it supposedly accounts to about 3000 calories a day! Shocking! If I can post a picture I will... it's always amusing when I pull the silver cover off my food to find a peitry dish of oatmeal or chicken pot pie... and for dessert I got a strawberry short cake the size of a mini muffin with a spat of whipped cream and not two but ONE strawberry!!!
So, looks like I am here through the weekend, if not longer. I go for another detailed ultrasound tomorrow where they check blood flow in my uterus. It's pretty cool, they can see the blood flowing in blue and red (directional based) and can see where there might be problems. I am hoping it looks perfect and they'll just send me home (doubtful!). My OB came to see me today which was nice since he knows my history the best. He is the one however that wants me to stay through the weekend if not longer - I kind of think they might keep me here until I hit 28 weeks. I am REALLY hoping they will send me home in time for Henry's birthday!!!
Henry and Chris came for a visit today... It was a nice long visit. They brought me flower which according to Henry "are to make me feel happy". I got to eat a picnic for lunch with Henry in my room and I even got to take a nap with him for a couple of hours which felt great. He was also able to eat dinner with me which was fun. He was adorable when he commented that I have to be in the hospital because his baby brother is sick. I think he kind of gets what is going on! The worst part of his visit was leaving... he wanted to stay with me so badly and was kicking and screaming as he got on the elevator... that threw both Chris and I into tears. His visit was worth it though!
So that's my latest... I hope you are all doing well! Hopefully you don't mind these emails, it gives me something to do :)
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