So, once again, I woke up in the middle of the night with contractions. This time, I didn't get nervous or excited. As you may recall, I had a few of hours worth of contractions in the middle of the night a couple of weeks ago that resulted in a big fat nothing (not even a tiny bit of dilation!). So, I rode them out last night and slept in between contractions. They were about 30 minutes apart, and then 15 minutes, so I was only sleeping in tiny bits here and there, but it was better than lying awake staring at the clock and losing sleep for (potentially) nothing.
Around 5:30am, I had a few contractions there were 8-9 minutes apart. I started to get a little anxious then, since my parents were at their lake house an hour away and they were going to be the ones caring for Camden when Matt and I left for the hospital. So, I woke Matt up and told him what was going on and that I was going to give my mom a wake up call. I told him to go back to sleep; in case this ended up being nothing, I knew he'd go to work and I didn't want him falling asleep at his desk.
Well, my poor mom hit the road and arrived at our house around 7. It's now a little after 1pm and my contractions are....uncooperative is the best way I can think to describe them. They're still there-- some so intense that I feel like I'm going to throw up, and some just a mild ache. Some are 8 minutes apart; others are closer to 30 minutes apart. They're not stopping, but they're not forming any kind of pattern that indicates to me that it's time to call my OB or head to the hospital. Since my labor with Camden was much more clear-cut, this is frustrating to me.
I spent a good deal of time lying on the couch this morning while my mom took Camden to an indoor playground with my sister and my nephews. I wanted him to have a fun day even if I couldn't participate. After a while, my frustration led to restlessness and I got up and walked some laps around the house, did laundry, and even hauled our heavy vacuum upstairs to get some housework done. Might as well do something productive in between these contractions, right?
So. I don't know what the rest of this day (or evening, or night) holds. I'm guessing these contractions will eventually fade away altogether or they'll become more regular. At least, I hope so. I fear becoming one of those women who gives birth on her kitchen floor because she waited too long to go to the hospital. We'll see. If nothing happens today, I do have a doctor's appointment scheduled for tomorrow afternoon.
Come on, Macey-- everyone's ready to meet our favorite drama queen!
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Camden's Insight
A couple of days ago, Camden and I were upstairs in his bedroom with my mom (Nan) and Camden's cousin/BFF, Will. Camden paused briefly from playing trains to share some insightful information with us. I have mentioned his newfound fascination with the differences between male and female anatomy, yes? Okay, good.
Camden: Me and Will have a penis. Mommy and Nan have a badina.
Me: That's right. Because Mommy and Nan are....what?
Camden: Dirls!
Me: Yep. And you and Will are....
Camden: A penis!
Seriously, this kid makes me laugh so much every day.
(PS- Still no baby. Still no signs of impending labor. Pretty sure she has no immediate plans to evacuate my uterus.)
Camden: Me and Will have a penis. Mommy and Nan have a badina.
Me: That's right. Because Mommy and Nan are....what?
Camden: Dirls!
Me: Yep. And you and Will are....
Camden: A penis!
Seriously, this kid makes me laugh so much every day.
(PS- Still no baby. Still no signs of impending labor. Pretty sure she has no immediate plans to evacuate my uterus.)
Friday, August 24, 2012
I'm starting to think it's true...
...When I hear people say that girls bring the drama.
While getting pregnant with Camden was anything but simple, my entire pregnancy with him was pretty much a breeze. There was no extra monitoring, no extra tests involved. In fact, I remember my OB describing it as a perfect "textbook" pregnancy at one of my last appointments before I went into labor. So, that's kind of what I was expecting this time around.
You guys, I was at my OB appointment yesterday for (count 'em!) THREE HOURS. And I was the very last patient to leave the office, long after they had closed up shop for the day.
Because my daughter? She likes to bring the drama.
Basically, Macey decided to be a little rebellious during my NST. I ended up hooked up to that thing for over an hour as the nurse had me turning from side to side, chugging water, eating granola bars, and waddling to the bathroom to empty my poor bladder while still hooked up to all of the cords. Given that during all of my prior NSTs, I was only hooked up to the monitors for 20 minutes, I was starting to get alarmed. I really didn't get any information from the nurse other than the occasional "Hmmm..." while staring at her computer screen and commanding me to roll over again. She then took my results to the doctor and came back into the room to tell me that Macey had failed the test.
The next step was to go back into the ultrasound room for a more in depth test. I have no idea what the name of this test is (I didn't think to ask), but basically, the baby gets scored based on a number of different criteria. The test is 30 minutes long, and during those 30 minutes, the baby must do certain things like: turn her neck from side to side, twist her belly, open and close her mouth, and practice breathing for 30 seconds. All of this must occur in the 30 minute timeframe. If the baby does all of these things in the first 5 minutes, then great-- the test is over. But it can take the full 30 minutes sometimes too.
Well, Miss Macey was more than happy to twist, turn, and open and close her sweet little mouth within the first few minutes of being monitored. The ultrasound tech smiled reassuringly, telling me she was breezing through the test and we'd be done in no time. All we needed was for her to practice breathing for 30 seconds. Fast forward 27 minutes and we're still staring at her little belly, waiting for those breaths. And finally she took them-- 2 minutes before her time limit was up. I'm telling you-- she likes to keep things as dramatic as possible.
When I met with the doctor after all of these tests (and long after most everyone else had left the building), she told me that Macey looks perfect. The reason for her failed NST? She wouldn't stop moving during the entire test, therefore making it impossible to get an accurate reading. The more in depth test (I really should Google the name of that one) trumps the NST, and since she passed that one with flying colors, they have no concerns about her well being in utero. In fact, the doctor even told me I could just have a regular appointment next week-- you know, the kind with just a doppler and the fundal height measurement? I kind of forgot what those appointments feel like.
Also? She did offer me an elective induction once again and this time I hesitated. I'll be 40 weeks next week (when they would induce) and I really have nothing against induction itself-- I'm just not a fan of induction before 40 weeks, or with unfavorable conditions (like an undilated cervix). So, I told her it was a possibility, but that I'd like to know what was going on with my cervix first. Remember how I just wrote that I feel like doctors sometimes tell you that you're a fingertip dilated just to make you feel better? Yeah, pretty sure I was right on about that. This doctor said my cervix is totally closed. That took the induction option right off the table for me. My body is clearly not ready. So, I'll just keep waiting it out, and hoping that Macey will keep the drama to a minimum during these last days of pregnancy.
While getting pregnant with Camden was anything but simple, my entire pregnancy with him was pretty much a breeze. There was no extra monitoring, no extra tests involved. In fact, I remember my OB describing it as a perfect "textbook" pregnancy at one of my last appointments before I went into labor. So, that's kind of what I was expecting this time around.
You guys, I was at my OB appointment yesterday for (count 'em!) THREE HOURS. And I was the very last patient to leave the office, long after they had closed up shop for the day.
Because my daughter? She likes to bring the drama.
Basically, Macey decided to be a little rebellious during my NST. I ended up hooked up to that thing for over an hour as the nurse had me turning from side to side, chugging water, eating granola bars, and waddling to the bathroom to empty my poor bladder while still hooked up to all of the cords. Given that during all of my prior NSTs, I was only hooked up to the monitors for 20 minutes, I was starting to get alarmed. I really didn't get any information from the nurse other than the occasional "Hmmm..." while staring at her computer screen and commanding me to roll over again. She then took my results to the doctor and came back into the room to tell me that Macey had failed the test.
The next step was to go back into the ultrasound room for a more in depth test. I have no idea what the name of this test is (I didn't think to ask), but basically, the baby gets scored based on a number of different criteria. The test is 30 minutes long, and during those 30 minutes, the baby must do certain things like: turn her neck from side to side, twist her belly, open and close her mouth, and practice breathing for 30 seconds. All of this must occur in the 30 minute timeframe. If the baby does all of these things in the first 5 minutes, then great-- the test is over. But it can take the full 30 minutes sometimes too.
Well, Miss Macey was more than happy to twist, turn, and open and close her sweet little mouth within the first few minutes of being monitored. The ultrasound tech smiled reassuringly, telling me she was breezing through the test and we'd be done in no time. All we needed was for her to practice breathing for 30 seconds. Fast forward 27 minutes and we're still staring at her little belly, waiting for those breaths. And finally she took them-- 2 minutes before her time limit was up. I'm telling you-- she likes to keep things as dramatic as possible.
When I met with the doctor after all of these tests (and long after most everyone else had left the building), she told me that Macey looks perfect. The reason for her failed NST? She wouldn't stop moving during the entire test, therefore making it impossible to get an accurate reading. The more in depth test (I really should Google the name of that one) trumps the NST, and since she passed that one with flying colors, they have no concerns about her well being in utero. In fact, the doctor even told me I could just have a regular appointment next week-- you know, the kind with just a doppler and the fundal height measurement? I kind of forgot what those appointments feel like.
Also? She did offer me an elective induction once again and this time I hesitated. I'll be 40 weeks next week (when they would induce) and I really have nothing against induction itself-- I'm just not a fan of induction before 40 weeks, or with unfavorable conditions (like an undilated cervix). So, I told her it was a possibility, but that I'd like to know what was going on with my cervix first. Remember how I just wrote that I feel like doctors sometimes tell you that you're a fingertip dilated just to make you feel better? Yeah, pretty sure I was right on about that. This doctor said my cervix is totally closed. That took the induction option right off the table for me. My body is clearly not ready. So, I'll just keep waiting it out, and hoping that Macey will keep the drama to a minimum during these last days of pregnancy.
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Fluid Drama Update
On Monday, I went in for my NST (nonstress test) and ultrasound to check the status of my fluid levels. Macey aced the NST, but we discovered that my fluid levels had dropped once again-- this time to less than 7. So, when I met with the doctor, they asked that I come back today to repeat the fluid check and NST. If my levels had dropped to a 5 or less, they were planning on inducing me right away. If my levels continued hovering around the 6 or 7 mark, the plan was to get me to 39 weeks and then induce me.
I'll be honest: the talk of induction didn't thrill me. Yes, I am uncomfortable. Yes, I am ready to meet my daughter. But I'm also realistic. I know that when your body isn't really ready to have a baby, inductions sometimes fail. I know that when inductions fail, they result in c-sections. I also know that c-sections aren't the end of the world. But if I can avoid a c-section? I'd really like to do that, please.
I looked on the bright side of induction too, though: there would be plenty of time to arrange a babysitter for Camden (no calling my parents at 3am as we rush out the door to the hospital). I could choose which doctor in my practice I'd like to schedule the induction with and wouldn't run the risk of ending up with one of the OB's from another practice that covers my doctors' shifts when none of them are on call. Knowing that stuff gave the whole induction thing a silver lining.
When I went in this morning, I was told that Macey once again rocked the NST. I headed into the ultrasound room, tucking away that piece of good news to help soften the blow of what I had come to expect as the inevitable decline in my fluid levels. You can imagine how shocked I was to discover that my levels had actually increased to nearly 10. I guess all of my water chugging is finally doing something other than making me camp out in the bathroom all day and night.
When I met with the NP after my ultrasound, she told me that they would still offer me an induction next week since we had already discussed it, but at this point, it would be an elective induction, not a medically necessary one. She went on to discuss how it's much more common for inductions to result in c-sections when our bodies aren't ready to go into labor on their own. Essentially, she was echoing all of the thoughts and concerns I've had over the past week.
And so, my decision is to wait this pregnancy out and trust that my body knows what it's doing. I'll go back in next week for another ultrasound and NST just to be on the safe side (because you just really never know with my fluid levels-- they seem to have a flair for the dramatic). But hopefully, hopefully, I will get to go into labor naturally, just like I did with Camden. I'm so thankful for this opportunity that didn't seem like a possibility just a few days ago.
I'll be honest: the talk of induction didn't thrill me. Yes, I am uncomfortable. Yes, I am ready to meet my daughter. But I'm also realistic. I know that when your body isn't really ready to have a baby, inductions sometimes fail. I know that when inductions fail, they result in c-sections. I also know that c-sections aren't the end of the world. But if I can avoid a c-section? I'd really like to do that, please.
I looked on the bright side of induction too, though: there would be plenty of time to arrange a babysitter for Camden (no calling my parents at 3am as we rush out the door to the hospital). I could choose which doctor in my practice I'd like to schedule the induction with and wouldn't run the risk of ending up with one of the OB's from another practice that covers my doctors' shifts when none of them are on call. Knowing that stuff gave the whole induction thing a silver lining.
When I went in this morning, I was told that Macey once again rocked the NST. I headed into the ultrasound room, tucking away that piece of good news to help soften the blow of what I had come to expect as the inevitable decline in my fluid levels. You can imagine how shocked I was to discover that my levels had actually increased to nearly 10. I guess all of my water chugging is finally doing something other than making me camp out in the bathroom all day and night.
When I met with the NP after my ultrasound, she told me that they would still offer me an induction next week since we had already discussed it, but at this point, it would be an elective induction, not a medically necessary one. She went on to discuss how it's much more common for inductions to result in c-sections when our bodies aren't ready to go into labor on their own. Essentially, she was echoing all of the thoughts and concerns I've had over the past week.
And so, my decision is to wait this pregnancy out and trust that my body knows what it's doing. I'll go back in next week for another ultrasound and NST just to be on the safe side (because you just really never know with my fluid levels-- they seem to have a flair for the dramatic). But hopefully, hopefully, I will get to go into labor naturally, just like I did with Camden. I'm so thankful for this opportunity that didn't seem like a possibility just a few days ago.
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Dear Camden (2.9 years old edition)
Camden, Camden, Camden...
It's no secret that I'm completely crazy about you. While it's easy to get nostalgic about the snuggly bundle of newborn that you used to be, I absolutely love this stage-- your personality is becoming so clear, and you interact with us in such meaningful ways. Nothing makes me happier than seeing those big blue eyes every day. You're everything I hoped for in a son.
Here's who you are now, at 2 years and (almost) 9 months old:
You're completely and totally obsessed with Bob the Builder. As far as I know, this show isn't even on TV anymore, but that small obstacle hasn't deterred your love for the construction worker and all of his chatty construction equipment. You were introduced to "Builder Bob" through toys at speech therapy, and have since watched countless Bob videos on You Tube. You've also developed quite the extensive collection of Bob the Builder toys. It's not unusual to find you wearing a yellow hard hat like Bob while walking around the house singing the theme song to the show: "Bob the Builder, can we fix it?!"
You are becoming more interested in body parts and distinguishing male parts from female parts. You've known the names for your body parts for a while now, but have started asking me about girly parts now, too: "What you have, Mommy?" Guess this was good timing to prepare you for baby sister!
You're so curious. You always want to know people's names and where they live. You also have entered the infamous "Why" and "Why not?" phase. Last night when I turned your light off at bedtime, you asked me to turn it back on. When I told you that we sleep with the lights out, you replied simply, "But why do we sleep with the lights off, Mommy?" And just the other day at nap, you asked matter of factly, "Why do we have to take a nap, Mommy?" I can totally see how this phase can grate on the nerves of some parents, but I have to admit that I find it pretty darn adorable right now. (Ask me how I feel about it in a month.)
Your imagination is working overtime. I love listening to the conversations your toys have with each other when you play independently. Most of the time, they're very polite and friendly. Sometimes, they argue. One day, you even sent one of your hands to time out for not sharing toys with your other hand.
You love to sing and dance. And not only do YOU love to do it, you want to make sure everyone else loves it too. Any time the theme song to one of your favorite shows comes on, you frantically scan the room and demand that everyone who is present "DANCE!!!"
You can name every letter of the alphabet and can sing your ABCs. You've graduated from puzzles with the matching pictures on the board to "real" 10-12 piece puzzles. You have one in particular that you can do with no assistance and you love to show off this new skill to everyone. You recognize your own name when it's written down. You've had your colors mastered for a while now. You're starting to recognize more numbers too. I tell you every day how smart I think you are.
You pee on the potty! With the exception of the occasional accident here and there, you've mastered peeing on the potty. You're either in a pull-up or big boy undies all day long now. Thankfully, we've moved past your poop phobia too, but I am still not pushing you to poop on the potty. When you need to poop, you ask me to put a pull-up on you. After you go, we flush your poop down the potty together. Baby steps! I know you'll master pooping on the potty in your own time.
Your other favorite things right now? Building with your tool set. Any form of construction equipment. Playing cars. Drawing. Watching shows on my Kindle. Going to your cousin Will's house to play. Playing games on the computer. Visiting Nan and Pop's boat house. Helping me do anything-- cook dinner, pack Daddy's lunch, do laundry, make my coffee ("Can I help, Mommy?" is an often heard question each day). Running laps around the house. Trains.
Pretty much? You're an awesome little guy and my most favorite sidekick. I can't wait to see you in action as a big brother. I love you to pieces, buddy.
Love,
Mommy
It's no secret that I'm completely crazy about you. While it's easy to get nostalgic about the snuggly bundle of newborn that you used to be, I absolutely love this stage-- your personality is becoming so clear, and you interact with us in such meaningful ways. Nothing makes me happier than seeing those big blue eyes every day. You're everything I hoped for in a son.
Here's who you are now, at 2 years and (almost) 9 months old:
You're completely and totally obsessed with Bob the Builder. As far as I know, this show isn't even on TV anymore, but that small obstacle hasn't deterred your love for the construction worker and all of his chatty construction equipment. You were introduced to "Builder Bob" through toys at speech therapy, and have since watched countless Bob videos on You Tube. You've also developed quite the extensive collection of Bob the Builder toys. It's not unusual to find you wearing a yellow hard hat like Bob while walking around the house singing the theme song to the show: "Bob the Builder, can we fix it?!"
You are becoming more interested in body parts and distinguishing male parts from female parts. You've known the names for your body parts for a while now, but have started asking me about girly parts now, too: "What you have, Mommy?" Guess this was good timing to prepare you for baby sister!
You're so curious. You always want to know people's names and where they live. You also have entered the infamous "Why" and "Why not?" phase. Last night when I turned your light off at bedtime, you asked me to turn it back on. When I told you that we sleep with the lights out, you replied simply, "But why do we sleep with the lights off, Mommy?" And just the other day at nap, you asked matter of factly, "Why do we have to take a nap, Mommy?" I can totally see how this phase can grate on the nerves of some parents, but I have to admit that I find it pretty darn adorable right now. (Ask me how I feel about it in a month.)
Your imagination is working overtime. I love listening to the conversations your toys have with each other when you play independently. Most of the time, they're very polite and friendly. Sometimes, they argue. One day, you even sent one of your hands to time out for not sharing toys with your other hand.
You love to sing and dance. And not only do YOU love to do it, you want to make sure everyone else loves it too. Any time the theme song to one of your favorite shows comes on, you frantically scan the room and demand that everyone who is present "DANCE!!!"
You can name every letter of the alphabet and can sing your ABCs. You've graduated from puzzles with the matching pictures on the board to "real" 10-12 piece puzzles. You have one in particular that you can do with no assistance and you love to show off this new skill to everyone. You recognize your own name when it's written down. You've had your colors mastered for a while now. You're starting to recognize more numbers too. I tell you every day how smart I think you are.
You pee on the potty! With the exception of the occasional accident here and there, you've mastered peeing on the potty. You're either in a pull-up or big boy undies all day long now. Thankfully, we've moved past your poop phobia too, but I am still not pushing you to poop on the potty. When you need to poop, you ask me to put a pull-up on you. After you go, we flush your poop down the potty together. Baby steps! I know you'll master pooping on the potty in your own time.
Your other favorite things right now? Building with your tool set. Any form of construction equipment. Playing cars. Drawing. Watching shows on my Kindle. Going to your cousin Will's house to play. Playing games on the computer. Visiting Nan and Pop's boat house. Helping me do anything-- cook dinner, pack Daddy's lunch, do laundry, make my coffee ("Can I help, Mommy?" is an often heard question each day). Running laps around the house. Trains.
Pretty much? You're an awesome little guy and my most favorite sidekick. I can't wait to see you in action as a big brother. I love you to pieces, buddy.
Love,
Mommy
Sunday, August 12, 2012
Room Makeovers
Well, folks, the room makeovers are complete. A few months back, we moved Camden out of his nursery and into his new big boy room across the hall. I didn't want him to associate switching rooms with the new baby (basically, I didn't want him to feel that he got kicked out of his room), so I made sure to make the transition fairly early. But, the room makeover took a while to complete. Somehow, in the midst of all of the chaos that has been the past few weeks, we were able to finish both Camden's big boy room and Macey's nursery. A massive thank you goes out to my mom, whose artistic and designing abilities did not get passed on to her youngest daughter.
First up: Camden's Room!
The wooden letters on the wall are from Michael's and Camden "helped" me paint them-- meaning, he got to tell me which letter should be which color.
My mom painted these small canvases of some of Camden's favorite Disney characters (Oso, Mickey, Donald Duck, Jungle Junction). Also, note the dump truck lamp-- a new favorite of his. PS- Can you spot the little blonde head?!
Overflowing frog toy box, book shelf, and bean bag chair.
Camden is completely obsessed with Bob the Builder. Those are removable stickers on his wall of all of his favorite characters from "Builder Bob", as he says. And yes-- he is mid-excited jump when I took this picture. Just looking at those stickers is exciting.
Choo choo bed.
And now for Macey's room!
Long time readers might recall these pictures of Camden's nursery that I posted a few years ago. I really, really didn't want to paint over the jungle animals that my mom painted for Camden, but I also wanted the room to look more feminine for Macey. Mom had the perfect solution: paint the room purple instead of green, and add a feminine touch by adding things like bows to the animals and butterflies on the wall. Also, we swapped out the brown nursery furniture for white.
Before...
And after!
See the butterflies flying around this girly jungle?!
The elephant is all decked out with a purple bow.
This dresser was a total nightmare to put together, but I'm very happy with the finished product.
Some toucans perched on the new pink valance.
Instead of painting the letters on the wall like we did when this room was Camden's, we opted for wooden letters this time. I like the result.
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Lots of updating to do.
Oh, hi. I'm back and still (somewhat) sane. And yes-- I am still pregnant, too.
I'm knocking on wood a thousand times as I write this, but Matt reached the turning point in his recovery yesterday. Today was even better. He's back at work now too. It'll still be a while before he regains all of his strength but I'm so thankful to have him up and around. My mom even "moved out" of our house tonight, meaning she is no longer doubling as my nanny/chef/maid. She's taking a well-deserved break at her lake house before it's time to do it all over again when Macey makes her debut.
And speaking of Miss Macey-- at my 37 week check-up on Tuesday, my OB was surprised to learn that my fundal height had actually decreased. He looked over my ultrasound results and confirmed that Macey's weight is good. He also commented that my fluid levels, while lower than expected, are not alarmingly low. He appeared genuinely baffled by my fundal height, but ultimately decided that it must be due to her low head position. Still, he confirmed that I had another ultrasound scheduled to double check on things.
My follow-up ultrasound was today. My fluid levels have not changed-- they're at an 8. I have to admit I was a little disappointed since I have been chugging my 64 oz of water a day like it's my job (and peeing even more frequently than I was before, something I wouldn't have thought possible until I started this water drinking challenge). Of course, I was thankful that the levels haven't decreased. The interesting thing was that this ultrasound tech (a different one from last week) didn't think that Macey's head was especially low. I don't know if Macey somehow scooted up a little bit, or if the two techs just have different opinions on what constitutes a "very low" head, but she specifically commented that her head isn't particularly low. She attributes my measuring small entirely to my low fluid levels. Apparently this stuff isn't an exact science; a lot of it seems subjective.
After my ultrasound today, I met with the NP to go over the results. She had already discussed them with a doctor in the practice. Since my fluid levels didn't decrease, they decided we'd continue to ride this out on a week by week basis. I assume that means that they still feel like she's safer inside of me than outside of me at this point. However, they do want to add a NST (nonstress test) to my check-ups each week. And she requested that I schedule all of my future appointments on Mondays or Tuesdays so that if it's determined that they need to "get labor going" at any point, they'll have the remainder of the week to make arrangements for me.
I have mixed feelings about everything right now. I'm growing increasingly more uncomfortable, which is to be expected at this point in pregnancy. And when I'm lying awake at night with feet in my ribs, or running to the bathroom for the 95th time during the day, I feel like I'm ready for her to come on out. Also, it would be reassuring to have her on the outside and see for myself that she is safe and healthy and okay. But, of course I want what's best for her, and if they feel like having her bake for a while longer is the safest option, I'm all for it. Plus, that buys me some more time to have Camden as my only child, and after the chaotic week we've had this past week, the two of us could really use some quality time together before little sister comes home.
On a totally unrelated note (but it kind of goes right along with the craptastic week we had), I found out today that I have basal cell skin cancer again. I was diagnosed with it in 2007 and have been getting regular skin checks since then. At my last dermatologist appointment a couple of weeks back, I pointed out a small pink spot on my wrist, and actually said, "I'm not concerned this is skin cancer or anything, but I do want to know what it is and why it's not going away." Turns out, it most certainly was skin cancer. See your dermatologist regularly, people. And keep an eye out for any suspicious looking spots (even if, like me, you're sure they're not cancerous).
I think that covers everything. I'm fully anticipating several weeks of good news for us now.
I'm knocking on wood a thousand times as I write this, but Matt reached the turning point in his recovery yesterday. Today was even better. He's back at work now too. It'll still be a while before he regains all of his strength but I'm so thankful to have him up and around. My mom even "moved out" of our house tonight, meaning she is no longer doubling as my nanny/chef/maid. She's taking a well-deserved break at her lake house before it's time to do it all over again when Macey makes her debut.
And speaking of Miss Macey-- at my 37 week check-up on Tuesday, my OB was surprised to learn that my fundal height had actually decreased. He looked over my ultrasound results and confirmed that Macey's weight is good. He also commented that my fluid levels, while lower than expected, are not alarmingly low. He appeared genuinely baffled by my fundal height, but ultimately decided that it must be due to her low head position. Still, he confirmed that I had another ultrasound scheduled to double check on things.
My follow-up ultrasound was today. My fluid levels have not changed-- they're at an 8. I have to admit I was a little disappointed since I have been chugging my 64 oz of water a day like it's my job (and peeing even more frequently than I was before, something I wouldn't have thought possible until I started this water drinking challenge). Of course, I was thankful that the levels haven't decreased. The interesting thing was that this ultrasound tech (a different one from last week) didn't think that Macey's head was especially low. I don't know if Macey somehow scooted up a little bit, or if the two techs just have different opinions on what constitutes a "very low" head, but she specifically commented that her head isn't particularly low. She attributes my measuring small entirely to my low fluid levels. Apparently this stuff isn't an exact science; a lot of it seems subjective.
After my ultrasound today, I met with the NP to go over the results. She had already discussed them with a doctor in the practice. Since my fluid levels didn't decrease, they decided we'd continue to ride this out on a week by week basis. I assume that means that they still feel like she's safer inside of me than outside of me at this point. However, they do want to add a NST (nonstress test) to my check-ups each week. And she requested that I schedule all of my future appointments on Mondays or Tuesdays so that if it's determined that they need to "get labor going" at any point, they'll have the remainder of the week to make arrangements for me.
I have mixed feelings about everything right now. I'm growing increasingly more uncomfortable, which is to be expected at this point in pregnancy. And when I'm lying awake at night with feet in my ribs, or running to the bathroom for the 95th time during the day, I feel like I'm ready for her to come on out. Also, it would be reassuring to have her on the outside and see for myself that she is safe and healthy and okay. But, of course I want what's best for her, and if they feel like having her bake for a while longer is the safest option, I'm all for it. Plus, that buys me some more time to have Camden as my only child, and after the chaotic week we've had this past week, the two of us could really use some quality time together before little sister comes home.
On a totally unrelated note (but it kind of goes right along with the craptastic week we had), I found out today that I have basal cell skin cancer again. I was diagnosed with it in 2007 and have been getting regular skin checks since then. At my last dermatologist appointment a couple of weeks back, I pointed out a small pink spot on my wrist, and actually said, "I'm not concerned this is skin cancer or anything, but I do want to know what it is and why it's not going away." Turns out, it most certainly was skin cancer. See your dermatologist regularly, people. And keep an eye out for any suspicious looking spots (even if, like me, you're sure they're not cancerous).
I think that covers everything. I'm fully anticipating several weeks of good news for us now.
Friday, August 3, 2012
I spoke too soon.
I am in such a hazy fog right now that I don't even know if this post will be coherent, but I'll give it my best shot. As I mentioned previously, Matt was scheduled for hernia surgery yesterday. I spent the entire day in the hospital waiting room. The two surgeons who worked on Matt came out to tell me that everything went well, but he was taking a long time to wake up and that I'd likely still be waiting for a couple of hours. I settled in for a long afternoon just as my cell phone started ringing. I looked down to see the caller ID display the number to my OB's office.
My stomach sank as I answered the phone. Generally, my OB doesn't call me to make small talk, so I knew something was up. Sure enough, the nurse on the other end of the line was calling to tell me that one of the doctors in the practice had reviewed my ultrasound results from the day before and was a bit concerned about my amniotic fluid levels being so low. Now, if you recall, the ultrasound tech did tell me that my levels were low too, but she said they were on the low side of normal and that it wouldn't be a problem for me to sail through the rest of my pregnancy with those lowish levels. Apparently, she was overly optimistic.
My heart started to race as I listened to the OB nurse give me instructions about partial bed rest, drinking 64 oz of water a day, monitoring Macey's movements closely, and coming back for a repeat ultrasound next week. I felt like I had been punched in the gut; I thought we were past all of this stuff, and I had turned my focus to Matt and his recovery. Now, I was back to square one.
The very kind OB nurse had told me to call and schedule my repeat ultrasound for next week. I dialed the front desk and told them what I needed. The lady on the other end was extremely rude and abrasive.
"I don't understand," she kept saying, "You were just here yesterday for an ultrasound. Why are you coming back again? Who ordered this?" I repeated all of the instructions that had been given to me and listened as she popped her gum on the other end of the line. "Well, I don't have a single ultrasound appointment for next week. I can't get you in."
I'll admit that my emotional reserves were fledgling at that point anyway, due to a long day in a hospital waiting room worrying about Matt. Then learning that I had to once again worry about Macey was kind of the icing on a pretty terrible cake. I couldn't help it; the tears started falling as I explained to her that this wasn't my choice, I had to come in to make sure my baby was okay, that she needed to squeeze me in somewhere on the schedule. I guess the sound of my desperation finally made her take some level of pity on me, and she told me she'd talk with the ultrasound tech and call me back with an appointment time.
Finally, around 4pm, I was able to take Matt home. We started to notice some complications from the surgery a few hours later. Around 10:30pm, we were on our way to the ER. We spent most of the remainder of the night in the ER, arriving back home in the wee hours of the morning. Matt is miserable and in a great deal of pain and we're all completely exhausted. Thanks to the help of my wonderful mom, sister, and dad, Camden has been kept busy and distracted during all of the chaos, but I sure do miss my little guy.
As of right now, I have a regular OB appointment (previously scheduled 37 week check) on Tuesday and I am still waiting to hear back about when I can get in for my ultrasound. Matt has some follow-up appointments scheduled too. Until then, I'm just trying to soldier through, having faith that things will be better for all of us soon.
My stomach sank as I answered the phone. Generally, my OB doesn't call me to make small talk, so I knew something was up. Sure enough, the nurse on the other end of the line was calling to tell me that one of the doctors in the practice had reviewed my ultrasound results from the day before and was a bit concerned about my amniotic fluid levels being so low. Now, if you recall, the ultrasound tech did tell me that my levels were low too, but she said they were on the low side of normal and that it wouldn't be a problem for me to sail through the rest of my pregnancy with those lowish levels. Apparently, she was overly optimistic.
My heart started to race as I listened to the OB nurse give me instructions about partial bed rest, drinking 64 oz of water a day, monitoring Macey's movements closely, and coming back for a repeat ultrasound next week. I felt like I had been punched in the gut; I thought we were past all of this stuff, and I had turned my focus to Matt and his recovery. Now, I was back to square one.
The very kind OB nurse had told me to call and schedule my repeat ultrasound for next week. I dialed the front desk and told them what I needed. The lady on the other end was extremely rude and abrasive.
"I don't understand," she kept saying, "You were just here yesterday for an ultrasound. Why are you coming back again? Who ordered this?" I repeated all of the instructions that had been given to me and listened as she popped her gum on the other end of the line. "Well, I don't have a single ultrasound appointment for next week. I can't get you in."
I'll admit that my emotional reserves were fledgling at that point anyway, due to a long day in a hospital waiting room worrying about Matt. Then learning that I had to once again worry about Macey was kind of the icing on a pretty terrible cake. I couldn't help it; the tears started falling as I explained to her that this wasn't my choice, I had to come in to make sure my baby was okay, that she needed to squeeze me in somewhere on the schedule. I guess the sound of my desperation finally made her take some level of pity on me, and she told me she'd talk with the ultrasound tech and call me back with an appointment time.
Finally, around 4pm, I was able to take Matt home. We started to notice some complications from the surgery a few hours later. Around 10:30pm, we were on our way to the ER. We spent most of the remainder of the night in the ER, arriving back home in the wee hours of the morning. Matt is miserable and in a great deal of pain and we're all completely exhausted. Thanks to the help of my wonderful mom, sister, and dad, Camden has been kept busy and distracted during all of the chaos, but I sure do miss my little guy.
As of right now, I have a regular OB appointment (previously scheduled 37 week check) on Tuesday and I am still waiting to hear back about when I can get in for my ultrasound. Matt has some follow-up appointments scheduled too. Until then, I'm just trying to soldier through, having faith that things will be better for all of us soon.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
All is well.
First of all, thank you for all of the sweet and thoughtful comments, texts, and emails I received. It was so nice to know how many people were thinking of Macey and me. I really appreciated every single message.
We went for our ultrasound this afternoon and thankfully, all is well. I feel like a gigantic weight has been lifted off my shoulders. The funny thing is, I held it together pretty well yesterday. My family was surprised by how calm I was, given that I'm a natural worrier. I guess, subconsciously, I was a lot more worried than I realized though. I had a hard time sleeping last night and then the Crazy came out in full force this morning. I was running around cleaning like a mad woman and making a long and ridiculously detailed list of instructions for Camden because in the back of my mind I was thinking I might be admitted into the hospital this afternoon. I was seriously a sweaty, shaky mess about an hour before I had to leave for my appointment. It was not pretty.
I had never had an ultrasound this late in the game before and was surprised by how little detail you can see. I guess it's kind of like zooming in with a camera lens; everything was extremely close up and it was hard to make out which body part was which. Still, it was neat to see her again.
The first thing the tech noted was how low her head is positioned. I had my suspicions about that since I wake up to pee at least once an hour at night. But seriously-- the ultrasound tech had to pull my underwear all the way down to position her wand low enough to see Macey's head. So, immediately she said, "Well, her head is very low so that in itself could be why you're measuring small."
She also pointed out that Macey has essentially no fat which is also probably contributing to my belly measuring small. She has extremely long legs (something like 95th percentile!) but is incredibly lean. Basically? She's built just like her big brother and her daddy. Her estimated weight right now is 5 lbs, 14 oz (35th percentile), but that can be off by up to half a pound or so.
Finally, the ultrasound tech told me that another contributing factor to my measuring small is probably my amniotic fluid level. It is normal, but on the low side of normal. I guess normal levels can be anywhere from 5-25 (I have no idea what kind of measurements they use here), and mine was an 8. I asked her if that level of fluid would be enough to get Macey through the last few weeks of pregnancy and she said yes. Insert sigh of relief here.
So, in summary, her low head position, her skinny build, and my lowish amniotic fluid all contribute to a smaller belly, but a normal baby.
I am so incredibly relieved and thankful. Here's to baking her for at least a few more weeks!
We went for our ultrasound this afternoon and thankfully, all is well. I feel like a gigantic weight has been lifted off my shoulders. The funny thing is, I held it together pretty well yesterday. My family was surprised by how calm I was, given that I'm a natural worrier. I guess, subconsciously, I was a lot more worried than I realized though. I had a hard time sleeping last night and then the Crazy came out in full force this morning. I was running around cleaning like a mad woman and making a long and ridiculously detailed list of instructions for Camden because in the back of my mind I was thinking I might be admitted into the hospital this afternoon. I was seriously a sweaty, shaky mess about an hour before I had to leave for my appointment. It was not pretty.
I had never had an ultrasound this late in the game before and was surprised by how little detail you can see. I guess it's kind of like zooming in with a camera lens; everything was extremely close up and it was hard to make out which body part was which. Still, it was neat to see her again.
The first thing the tech noted was how low her head is positioned. I had my suspicions about that since I wake up to pee at least once an hour at night. But seriously-- the ultrasound tech had to pull my underwear all the way down to position her wand low enough to see Macey's head. So, immediately she said, "Well, her head is very low so that in itself could be why you're measuring small."
She also pointed out that Macey has essentially no fat which is also probably contributing to my belly measuring small. She has extremely long legs (something like 95th percentile!) but is incredibly lean. Basically? She's built just like her big brother and her daddy. Her estimated weight right now is 5 lbs, 14 oz (35th percentile), but that can be off by up to half a pound or so.
Finally, the ultrasound tech told me that another contributing factor to my measuring small is probably my amniotic fluid level. It is normal, but on the low side of normal. I guess normal levels can be anywhere from 5-25 (I have no idea what kind of measurements they use here), and mine was an 8. I asked her if that level of fluid would be enough to get Macey through the last few weeks of pregnancy and she said yes. Insert sigh of relief here.
So, in summary, her low head position, her skinny build, and my lowish amniotic fluid all contribute to a smaller belly, but a normal baby.
I am so incredibly relieved and thankful. Here's to baking her for at least a few more weeks!
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