Day 9 (1/25):
- No strep: good and bad-just have to manage with Tylenol and fluids, but Im A-OK with that
- To answer some of your questions: yes, Ive been alternating heat and ice for my back/butt pain
- I did have them add an egg crate to my bed 2 days ago--not sure if I mentioned that. It does help some
- Had to have my IV switched today (they switch it every 4 days) and its so unpleasant. Its back in my left hand...
AND, the biggest update for today:
- Head is spinning--lots of info to consider--keep reading
- OB came in about 3pm today--wanted to check on my throat/back pain--said he was sorry if he gave me the crud (since he's been sick!) but Im just hoping and praying its the stale hospital air--and won't turn into something worse. He said he'd definitely have to delay anything if I started to develop more cold-like symptoms. Praying I don't...
- He's now decided that he'd like to go ahead and do the amnio on Wednesday--which puts me at exactly 35 weeks--said it is up to us, but either way, I still won't go past 36 weeks
- SO, obviously the decision will come down to how comfortable I am tomorrow morning when he comes in to ask what we've decided, but of course I REALLY value your input...
Things to consider:
- Amnio could be immature. Wait another week
- Even IF it is immature, I still won't go past Feb 4th
- Amnio could cause me to bleed/rupture my waters and have to deliver regardless of what amnio says
- Amnio could be mature and I would have my c-section Thursday
- How healthy will Ron be as a 35 weeker? I hear the Caucasian males are usually "wimpy" so of course Im concerned
- Trying to remember we are taking ME and RON into consideration here--its not just "to get him out"--we need to weigh the possibility of me hemorrhaging
- Amnio risks: yes, they are rare--but still (and obviously the pain associated with it!)
- NICU time--relates to how healthy/stable Ron will be as a 35 weeker. As of last u/s on the 17th, his estimated weight was 4lbs 13oz (that was up 6 oz from that Monday-so that makes me comfortable he's gaining weight)
Please don't leave horror stories or "shame on you" comments...Im already feeling guilty for potentially having to put my son at risk, although I know I cannot help having previa. Im just scared, and need some input--even if your child was born around this time frame and DID need assistance/NICU, Im OK with hearing that--just keep me thinking positive! Thank you!
I have no advice. I just wanted to wish you the best of luck in making your decision and welcoming Ron into the world.
ReplyDeleteNo advice...just sending all the best to you in the last little leg of your pregnancy journey...
ReplyDeleteWell, I just wanted to tell you that my sister in law just delivered her baby at 34 weeks via c-section after bed rest since oct. He was born at 5 pounds 2 oz. He was released from the special care nursery today at 37 weeks. He is perfect. The only problem that kept him in the hosp for 3 weeks was feeding, he did have to have a feeding tube. But he is doing great. So I wish you the best of luck and I can't wait to read all about the little guy!! Hang in there.
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry hun, I dont know enough about any of this to give you an educated opinion. You need to do what YOU and your husband feel is the best choice. I dont think anyone here would "shame" you. I'll punch em in the nose if they do kay?
ReplyDeleteAll three of you are in my thoughts. Keep us posted.
MT was born at 36 weeks. He was 7 lbs and 6 oz. Spent no time in NICU and was perfectly perfect. We did have a bit of feeding issues but they worked themself out with a bit of trial and error with different nipples and stimulation. I am wishing you all the calm and peace I can from Afar. You and Ron are in my thoughts. Go with your gut and let the dr's (and mook) take care of you and the rest of it all.
ReplyDeleteNo advice here, just plenty of support for you and a refresher on our story.
ReplyDeleteAndrew was born by emergency c-section at exactly 36 weeks due to complications the birthmom was having. (Yes, I know, there's a bit of a difference between 35 and 36 weeks.) His lungs weren't quite ready yet and he did require a 3 day stay in the NICU before going home with us. The night he was born everything the docs were concerned about was just soooo scary sounding and it felt like he would be in the NICU for weeks. Andrew spent less than a day on oxygen and was eating soon after that and the whole thing was way less scary than it seemed at first. Oh, and all of the birthmoms babies have been born between 32 and 36 weeks and all are perfectly fine!
Do what is safe and healthy for you. You need to be there for Ron.
I'm rootin' for all of you!
No guilt! We know that you have done and will continue to do all that you can for Ron! As for a "good" story, my boys were born at just shy of 30 weeks and they're doing great. :) The doctors will make the best decisions all around for both you and Ron, and you'll both come out of this and be able to look back on this time and wonder why you were so worried. :)
ReplyDeleteHugs!!
My Dearest JJ,
ReplyDeleteI know of full term babies that needed the NICU. I know that when I hit the 35 mark I breathed a lot easier because of the rate of problems really really decrease. That little man should be given a Trojan helmet when born b/c he is a major fighter and he comes from amazing stock! You are in the best place possible a level III NICU your little warrior won't do anything they haven't see already so trust in your docs/nurses. Just plan to spend lots of time w/the Lactation chica for feeding issues they will be able to talk you thru anything.
I will be thinking positive for you and the family sweetie. Sending you (((hugs)))
You have to do whatever you and your doctors think is best, but here's my take on it, if this were me and my baby, which it is not, so please feel free to completely disregard all of this!
ReplyDeleteEven if the lungs are fully developed, due to feeding issues I would want to keep him in as long as possible. So I would forego the amnio, since I would want to go as long as the doctors are willing to let me.
As long as you are being closely monitored and they can immediately get Ron out of there and keep you as safe as possible if anything started to go wrong, I would want to keep him in. If there is ANY concern that something could go wrong even with all this monitoring and you could be in danger, that would be something to consider, but if the doctors can take it day by day and keep you safe and still pregnant, that's what I would want to do.
Again, please disregard this if it's the least bit unhelpful. Good luck to you and I hope everything goes well.
Lyla was a healthy amd big (7lbs and 2 oz) 35 weeker and did not spend a single day on the NICU... Sending you many many hugs. I'll be praying for you and Ron!
ReplyDeleteGood luck with your decision. I'd probably get the amnio just so you can all be ready in the event Ron's lungs are not mature yet. I always like more information than less. My ds was a 31 weeker and spent 7 weeks in the NICU (mostly due to the fact that he couldn't figure out feeding). Today he is healthy as horse and in the 95% for height and weight.
ReplyDeleteI've been reading your blog for a while but never commented. Keeping you and little Ron in my prayers. I delivered my sweet little girl at 32 weeks by csection because of placenta abruption. She was 4 pounds 13 ounces. Obviously it was a scary time, but she was a fighter and did great. Lost about a pound within the first couple of days due to feeding issues (trouble with sucking reflex), but then she just did wonderful after that. If Ron ends up in the NICU, I'm sure the nurses will be wonderful. They were so helpful to us. Now, my girl is a healthy happy 1 year old with no indication of her rocky start in the world. Good luck with your decisions.
ReplyDeleteMy water spontaneously broke at 35 weeks and so my son was delivered exactly 5 weeks early. I was obviously scared to death but all went very well and he did not even have to stay in the NICU. He is 6 months old now and doing great and developing normally. I have been a lurker on here for quite a while. I am keeping my fingers crossed that all goes well for you.
ReplyDeleteIf it were me making this decision, I would ask myself what was safest for both of us. If he is born today, he will be fine. It could mean some time in the NICU, it could not. If he is born at 36 weeks, it could mean the same thing. But what are the risks for you to go another week?
ReplyDeleteI am guessing the question at this point is what is safest for you, given your previa. If the doctor feels it is in your best interest to have Ron sooner rather than later, the amnio becomes a moot point. If he has to come to ensure your safety, he will come and if he has breathing issues or feeding issues, he will be treated for those.
If your doctor has changed his mind about doing the amino, I would think he might be starting to worry about you. If you were to start hemorraging, it could cause harm to Ron. At that point, he would be safer in the NICU.
Trust your doctor and your instincts. You have done so much to protect Ron to this point, and you will continue to do so, even if he is on the outside.
I wish you didn't have to decide this JJ, but know that there isn't a right or wrong answer. There are just different situations that can arise from any of the scenarios.
Our twins were born (induced) at 36w4d. I know this is a bit past 35 weeks, but they were both under 5 pounds (4 pounds 8 ounces and 4 pounds 11 ounces). Neither of them required any NICU time and they both came home when I was released 2 days later. They had no issues whatsoever other than nursing took some time for both of them to catch on to (they bottle fed just fine from the start).
ReplyDeleteEven if Ron needs some NICU time, 35 weekers generally to really well. You had the steroid shots already right? So that is a plus.
I think in a situation like this, you just need to trust your gut and make a decision along with your doctor. Ask your doctor what he would want to do if you were his wife or his sister.
No guilt! You will make the best decisions for your family.
ReplyDeleteI also have no advice, but wanted to let you know that my sister had severe previa too, and her little boy (also caucasian, if it helps) was born just shy of 30 weeks, and was 2 lbs 12 oz. It sounds scary, and he did have to stay in the NICU for a while, but now he's a very bright two year old with no problems at all. He also hasn't had any major health concerns since he was born, either. So take heart, no matter what happens you can still have a very positive outcome!
My opinion, which is from relatives preemies but not my own experience at all getting past 3 pounds is a hurdle, but having the baby over 5 is a real big one in terms of NICU time. I have also always felt getting past 36 weeks was great if possible for you.
ReplyDeleteMy RE always told me this great thing for advice with all things IVF related but I think it is so good for so much of stuff related to having babies and even parenting. He says "don't do anything you would feel guilt or regret over later." I do not know if this helps you but thought I would share.
I just really wanted to send love and a hug!!
My friends baby was born at 34 weeks. She spent a few days in the NICU, but is very healthy. She's 3 now and you would have no idea.
ReplyDeleteI don't have personal experience, but I have a friend who had her first baby at 30 weeks and her second at 33 weeks. Both caucasian males, both spent time in the NICU but are doing great now. I think Ron will do fine even if he comes out this week. I think it's a matter of how risky it is to leave him in. I agree with the others to trust your gut and your dr. Good luck with the decision. I know you don't take it lightly.
ReplyDeleteNo advice here, just hoping for the best. Good luck in your decision, I know you and your dh will make the right one. Don't feel guilty about any decision. Your doctor wouldn't let you make a dangerous one! ((hugs))
ReplyDeleteWhile I've never had previa, I am one of those crazy ladies with lots of kids, but if it's any consolation all were conceived via fertility drugs and I've suffered 13 misscaraiges. So I have a little experience. Anyway all that to say, I have delivered at 35 weeks twice. One boy was whimpy and a twin and had 8 noneventful days in NICU before release, other was fine and never left us and we discharged 2 days later with little 5 pound healthy baby. My 36 week old babies have always come home with us. Whatever you decide God already knew the day Ron would come and will be there. Pray and just trust Him to lead you. Will be praying for safe arrival of sweet Ron. Many Blessings
ReplyDeleteI have followed your story for a long time and I have watched you and Mook make very difficult decisions and so far all have turned out quite well. So I am here to tell you to trust your mommy instinct!! This little baby has made it to 35 weeks in a situation that was not ideal...this little baby is a fighter and so are you and Mook...no matter what you decide this baby will come through with flying colors and I hope your previa listens and behaves itself too....maybe Ron knows you are documenting all of this and just wants to make sure your readers stay tuned for the next episode....hee hee hee'
ReplyDeleteAll the best
Janet
I don't have any advice. I know you're in the best hands, and I know Someone Bigger is in control, but that doesn't mean you don't have to give the doc an answer tomorrow. Just a few things that popped into my head - is there another OB, maybe one in your doc's practice or something, who could offer their opinion? Not necessarily as a second opinion, just someone else's viewpoint. Of course that might just muddy the waters even more. I don't know as much about the amnio, and this might be way off base, but if you're not going to go past Feb 4th anyway, I'd be worried that it would do more harm than good. I'm just thinking, maybe the amnio comes back, shows he's immature, and yet you still have to deliver on Thursday. Yikes my love, so much to think about! We'll be praying for some clarity for you and Mook. *hugs*
ReplyDeleteI have a client who was born at 33 weeks or so (it was the 1950's so it wasn't so exact back then!) But she was tiny, but healthy,and went home. She slept in a shoebox for the first month and wore doll clothes. Her mother fed her with a syringe. She's 52 years old and strong as an ox.
ReplyDeleteRon is gonna be FINE! 35 weeks is practically a line backer in the NICU. You just gotta tell him to not push the little ones around.
I can't even imagine what "shame on you" comments anyone could come up with...
I don't really have advice. I know you will do what is best for both you and Ron.
ReplyDeleteI will say that after working in an NICU for almost a year, yes boys can be a bit "wimpy" for lack of a better word. This is not in terms of health though. It's in terms of eating ability. The boy and 35 weeker thing may mean that if he came this week he may end up being in the NICU for a while or it may not. EVERY baby is different. Some do great and pick it all up quickly, some are sleepy a lot until all the sudden they seem to "wake up" one day and decide it's time to eat, some figure it out gradually. We would often tell parents to expect to take their baby home on their due date to try to relieve stress if the baby was slower in feeding but usually unless there were other issues at play babies went home sooner than the due date. The hospital I was at did not base it on the size of the baby at all. The baby had to be able to take all of their feeds for at least 48 hours without having any central apnea spells but the 35 week babies usually didn't have the apnea related to prematurity much. What ever happens I will be hoping all goes well for both of you. Hang in there and hugs to you.
Oh JJ, hang in there. WIsh I had some uplifting enlightening thing to write (I just googled Previa so I could know what it is and it does sound scary so I understand why you're feeling like you don't know what to do). You, mook and Ron, you've all worked so hard to get here, there he is, still inside you, still doing okay, only you and mook and your doctors know what's best, so many things to weigh and consider, but , know in your heart no matter what you choose, it is the right choice for the 3 of you and that you are NOT being selfish (no one wants Ron to be born to a really ill mom - right?).
ReplyDeleteThinking of the 3 of you.
I know nothing about all this, but cheering you on from the sidelines! All this decision making is stressful, but I do believe in the wisdom of a pregnant woman's instincts. From what you have shared about the doctor's comments, the difference between 35 and 36 weeks does not sound that great, especially considering that they will not let you go beyond 36 weeks anyways. Again, take my comments with a grain of salt since I'm totally ignorant on this. You might just have to take it day by day. In any case, it sounds like you are in good hands. Never give up believing in yourselves. You have come so far!
ReplyDeleteNo REAL advice, but I have some things to share.
ReplyDeleteI think, most probably, that any time now, Ron will be ok. His weight is getting there, and you KNOW ahead of time that he may need NICU time and MOST NICU'S are full of helpfula nd wonderful nurses and doctors. I think that 34-36 weeks you're probably looking at many of the same issues, depending on the child...feeding and breathing.
Ava was born at 36 weeks and we had 8 days in the NICU (She was just under 5 1/2 lb). We had a few xrays, antibiotics, IV's, a couple of Echocardiograms, an NG tube for feeds, and a vent hood for breathing. Being in the NICU was scary but the staff was VERY reassuring that we were not looking at life and death, just feeding and growing issues, which is, while not FUN really, dealable.
I think that whatever is safest for everyone at this point should be done. Just look at the risks to you and him, because I DO think that CHANCES ARE (of course anything could happen) things will turn out alright.
Take care of you and baby. Good luck deciding!!
I didn't read all the comments, so I don't know if someone suggested this - but is it possible for you to get a humidifier? I know that air can be dry. My assvice: Drink lots of water. Every time my throat starts getting sore I pump water and vitamin C into me and usually it goes away. If I back off the liquids because it hurts to swallow, then I get strep. I know they have you on an IV...
ReplyDeleteI hope you feel better soon. Thinking of you and Ron. Follow your heart/gut...be your own advocate, don't just do what the doc says.
No advice. Mine were born at 38w0d (Megan) and 39w1d (Liam), both c-sections. Megan was 6lb, 15oz and Liam was 7lb even. No NICU time for either. Megan had serious eating issues (lazy, lazy, lazy) and lost a lot of weight, but is now a 110% healthy 4 year old. Liam ate like a champ at first, then decided he didn't want to nurse for a few days when he was 5 days old (I immediately pumped and bottle fed for almost a week). Now he's a great eater and a healthy boy.
ReplyDeleteI too have heard that male babies are less robust than girl babies, but 35 weeks is really far along. I can't pretend to know the things that they will consider keeping him in the NICU for, so I'll refrain from any speculation. Suffice it to say that I expect Ron to be an insanely healthy and robust little guy!
If the two of you can be protected by good thoughts, vibes, and prayers, then you know you are covered!!
As a mom of a NICU graduate, Ron will be well taken care of if needing a NICU stay. As far as AMNIO, I personally would not do it because of all the risks to the baby. But..above all follow your doctor's orders. He knows your case best.
ReplyDeleteOK, so I don't really have a story for you that could make your decision any easier or make you feel much better. I can only offer that my husband was born 2 months early weighing in at 4lb 11oz and his twin sister at 3 lbs 7oz and they are both thriving adults with no issues and had no issues as children. And hey, that was over 30 years ago before any of the technology they have now!!!
ReplyDeleteTrust your instinct! Trust your gut! I wish I could help more and I can't even imagine where you are right now. You and your hubby will ultimately make the right decision for all 3 of you and you have to have faith in that.
Big hugs. Keep us posted.
My son was born at 34w6d after we held off pre-term labor for 3 weeks with bedrest and Terbutaline.
ReplyDeleteHe was huge for a preemie (6 lb 2 oz.) but he could not suck yet. He spent 17 days in NICU as a "feeder and grower" with an OG tube and then one day (as the neonatologists told me would happen) it was as if a light bulb went on and he just "got it." He started taking bottles and went home the next day!
He's now 31 months old, and he's totally caught up in every developmental milestone (and is ahead in many others).
I am fortunate that I could delivery him early because my BP was much too high and it wasn't responding to the meds. However it works out for you, it will be fine. Trust your gut instinct. It sounds like you are in very good hands.
No advise at all - just lots of love and hugs.
ReplyDeletexxx
Hon,
ReplyDeleteEFW (the weight) is a total ball park, don't get hung up on the exact number.
2. 35 weekers do really really well. Honestly. Even boys. My twins were THIS close to being 35 weekers (36 by 2 hours).
3. Point 2. Really. Ron's issues will be mainily keeping warm for a bit and feeding- he'll likely need a NG tube until his suck and endurance are up to better things.
You've done so well to avoid the scary stuff, don't be put off by what remains, it's nothing by comparison. Long term prognosis = completely normal. Hold onto that at day 3 baby blues, fatigue and sobbing about nothing.
Email me if you want details of preemie life.
xx
J
No advice - just wanted to say I'm so sorry you're faced with this decisions and sending you best wishes. Ron is very luck to be arriving (hopefully a week from now) into the loving arms of you and Mook.
ReplyDeleteNo matter what you decide it's a tough decision. I wish you luck in making it. I'll (obviously) support you either way. Wishing you plenty of health and strength. Hang in there!
ReplyDeleteGood luck with whatever you decide. My daughter was born at exactly 32 weeks due to placental abruption. She was 4 lbs 2 oz. I lost lots of blood and she spent 4 weeks in the NICU. But alls well that ends well. I was fine and she's now a perfectly healthy 6 1/2year old. Seriously, even being a premmie she hardly ever got sick during her daycare years -- only 1 ear infection ever. A woman I work with also had a 32-weeker--a caucasian boy and he spent less then 2 weeks in the NICU and is now a perfectly healthy almost 2 year old. I have faith you'll all be fine no matter what you decide. But I know that having to make decisions like this sucks. Good luck to all of you!
ReplyDeleteDeep down, you know what you need to do. Follow your heart (or your gut) - it won't lead you astray.
ReplyDelete*hugs*
My SIL had a complete previa and delivered at 34 weeks. Her son was in the NICU for 4 days and was able to be discharged home with her. He was 5lbs 6oz.
ReplyDeleteFollow your instincts. You will know when it is time for Ron to make his debut.
I'll be keeping you, Ron and Mook in my thoughts.
Hey there...just wanted to say I'm thinking of you and that Ron will do very well at 35 weeks. Most kiddos at that time just need observation in the NICU like Brynn did. They then get to go home with their moms. Most don't need to stay any longer. As far as the amnio...all the IVF stuff is so much worse. It didn't hurt at all. IVs are much worse so you've already had the worst of it. Plus you're so excited to almost finally be meeting your little one you'll think it's a breeze. I was mega worried before ours at the 35 week mark and it was no big deal. Honestly. I'm not just saying that. I"m the one who complained that IUIs are uncomfy so it's not like I'm super woman, LOL!
ReplyDeleteAmnio sounds like not a bad shot...worse case it's immature...you just have to wait a week and no longer like you would if you didn't have it. But the thing is just follow your heart and do whatever both you and your husband feel comfortable with. Will you OB be doing it or a peri? (Or is your OB a peri?) My main guy wasn't a peri that I saw most of the time so we had to wait for the peri to do it, but that was okay. They do a ton of them. Hang in there...the end is near! ((hugs))
Oh yeah JJ if it makes you feel better it's sometimes a crapshoot with the NICU stuff so try not to worry too much (easier said than done, right!) My niece was 39 weeks and needed O2 in the NICU..Brynn was barely 35 and didn't need any help at all. Go figure. Babies who have been under stress in utero (contractions) do better afterwards too. Maybe that's why Brynn did good. That will help Ron also.
ReplyDeleteJJ,
ReplyDeleteI had the steroids. my middle son was born at 35 weeks. He was fine. No NICU stay. I had to have a late amnio with him too. Maybe I'm some kind of freak, but it didn't hurt, at all, not a bit. The chances of things going wrong go down with the expertise of the person doing the amnio. My oldest was 6 1/2 weeks early and he was fine too. Unfortunately, my youngest spent two weeks in the NICU, but in the end, he is here and doing just fine. Ron will be fine too. Just you wait.
I hope all goes well with this last leg of the race. He is almost fully baked.
I'll be keeping you, Ron and Mook in my thoughts and prayers.
i don't have any personal advice i can offer, but i wanted to wish you luck and support w/ your decision. i'll be thinking positive thoughts for you and ron. even though i haven't commented in a while, i've attempted to keep up w/ you and i'm glad ron has made it this far, even though i know bedrest can suck at times. hang in there!! you're doing great, momma!
ReplyDeleteNo experience or advice to offer. Just wanted to say hi, let you know I'm thinking about you and hope all goes well!
ReplyDeleteJJ, I've got no idea but I'm praying for wisdom for you as you make this decision and safety for both you and Ron in the coming days ahead. You are in the best possible place, getting the best possible care. It's going to turn out okay, I really believe that.
ReplyDeletexxoxoxo
Flicka
Lots of postive thoughts your way. As a comment, as someone who has had an amnio with both my children, I can tell you that the anticipation is way worse than the actual procedure. Keep in mind that the risks they talk about are very very low, almost enough really to not worry about it. I think at the very least, an amnio will give you a good reference point to were Ron is, and I'm a firm believer in information being a good thing. If you can hold out till 36 weeks great, but you need to trust your instinct, your comfort level, and what you think is best. Good luck.
ReplyDeleteThe only advice I have is that my cousin had her son, now 13, at 32 weeks and he spent one night in the NICU. He's just fine and weighed almost 5 lbs.
ReplyDeleteSorry about your woozie spell. I'll keep you and Mook in my thoughts today. I know you'll do the best thing for you and Ron.
xoxo
No valuable advice from me since I haven't ever been there...yet. Just wanted you to know I am following your progress and thinking happy thoughts!
ReplyDeleteSince December I've known 2 babies to come early. First one came at 36 weeks, water broke, vaginal delivery, 5 lbs 4 oz perfectly fine. She's small but healthy. Had some trouble having enough energy to suck/nurse. But with supplements she's doing great. Came home with mom, no NICU. The other arrived last week at 35 weeks, water broke vaginal delivery, 5 lbs 14 oz. She originally had previa but it moved enough to deliver vaginally. He's perfectly perfect too. No NICU, came home with mom. So whatever your docs suggest, you'll be in good hands and good company with new, early, little, healthy babies. Best Wishes!
ReplyDeleteI have no advice, but I wanted to let you know that I was thinking of you all.
ReplyDeletethinking of you all & beaming the love
ReplyDeleteHey sweetie! I don't really have any advice for you but I would echo what some people have already said in that remember to think about yourself too. You need to be good an strong as well. Sending you loads of good wishes and healthy baby vibes!
ReplyDeleteHi - have been lurking for awhile now. We had a daughter at 36 weeks - with no major problems. We earned an extra day in the hotel d'hospital for jaundice (due to prematurity) as well as several days under the bili lights at home (thank goodness for home health!), but other than that, all was well. Later on, we had to deal with anemia, also likely due to prematurity, but it was corrected with iron drops. I hope you are able to make a choice you are comfortable with and that everything goes well for you.
ReplyDeleteI know you, Mook, and your doctor will find the right thing to do for you and Ron. We are all pulling for you. (Pulling for you is a weird expression. Where did it come from? I'm not actually physically pulling on anything, but I will if you want me to.)
ReplyDeleteHi JJ ~ No advice for you...just wanted to send some love and hugs to you and Mook. I sent something your way, please let Mook know to be expecting a package in about 3 - 4 days.
ReplyDeleteMy mom was a 34 weeker--back in 1945, when all you could do was cross your fingers and pray for the best. She recently retired after YEARS of being an OB and nursery nurse. When I was 30 weeks, I remember her saying "Whew! Now every week is just gravy!". Of course, as close to term as possible is ideal, but 34 weeks is pretty decent. No advice, just good thoughts and wishes for you, Mook, and little Ron.
ReplyDeleteI don't have any stories, good or bad, but wanted to send you some P&PTs.
ReplyDeleteNo advice/experience, so nothing to share, but just wanted to offer a virtual *hug* and wish you the best of luck for Ron's safe voyage in to this world!
ReplyDeleteRon has been getting really good care, so if they think he should come out before 36 weeks, I really feel that he will be great. If it is possible for him to stay until 36 weeks, that would be even better, but I can;t imagine how badly bed rest in the hospital must suck. No matter what, I'll be praying that everything will be ok for you both. :)
ReplyDeleteI have no experience with previa, etc...but I did have preemies! My girls were way more preemie than Ron will be, and they are FINE! Hang in there hun!
ReplyDeleteI mentioned my friend in a comment a couple of days ago who had complete previa and gave birth to a healthy baby at 34 weeks, just to expand on that - he too was a caucasian baby boy, weighed just over 5lbs at birth and did very well. He spent some time in the NICU, but is totally fine.
ReplyDeleteIt is so important to think not only about Ron's health, but about your own too - after all, he needs you to be nice and healthy to take care of him after the birth. So, you are doing the right thing thinking about every aspect.
Finally - my advice would be to be guided by the doctors, they are the ones with the most experience and will have both your's and Ron's best interests at heart. Good luck.
I have no advice but, I have total faith that you will make the best decision possible. Go with your gut and trust yourself. Hang in there JJ..... :)
ReplyDeleteJJ, I am dense because I lost track of why your doc wants to do an amnio? What would it potentially reveal?
ReplyDeleteMissy was a 35 weeker (35w6d). The only issues we dealt with was (1) not being able to nurse her for an hour after she was born (so she would cry and fully oxygenate her lungs) and (2) she had jaundice, but this can happen to full term babies, too. We spent zero time in the NICU.
I am not an expert, but my friends with early, c-section boys have all had trouble with latching on for bfing. My OB recommended not introducing a binkie until the baby has fully learned how to latch. The latch for a binkie is different enough from human nipple to cause problems. Anyway, not sure if you are concerned about this.
Thinking of you.
I wish I lived closer to you. I would totally get a sitter Wednesday night and come watch Lost with you at the hospital.
ReplyDeleteOk, you've gotten a bunch of advice -- and then I stopped reading cause babies are crying. Here's my take: My Reality is a smart girl (no surprise) -- at this stage of gestation, with today's technology and you being at a Level 3 NICU, Ron will be just fine. Now we need to worry about you and keeping you safe. Blue is also right -- once you get over the 3 lb mark there is a HUGE reduction in problems. You've cleared that hurdle too. As for the amino, trust your docs and what your instincts say.
ReplyDeleteJJ, I'm not sure how much you followed me back when the fruit babies were born. But they did just fantastic at 31 weeks and only 2.5 and 3.5 lbs. Sure they had feeding issues, but they were all surmountable (it is no reason to risk your saftey). They needed surfactant and a vent for less than a day at that age. So even if Ron has some lung immaturity, he can still do just great.
Anyway, just ask away of the NICU people. They will tell you everything. They can be amazing people. No matter how long he might be in there, one day or 10, he will get the very best care and thrive.
Thinking of you and keeping tabs. xo
L was born at 33 weeks. She spent two weeks in the NICU. Her first week was tough but once she hit 34 weeks there was no stopping her! We saw several babies come and go during our stay. One baby was born (c-section) at 35 weeks. He did very well and was gone within a few days.
ReplyDeleteWhatever you decide, Ron will be in good hands - yours and the NICU!
Thinking of you lots!
35 weekers generally have the most problems feeding. There is the potential for some breathing problems, but those tend to clear up pretty fast in my opinion. He'll be at risk for jaundice as well. All that aside, I personally was a 34 weeker (back in the 70's), and I turned out just fine. (although some people may have a different opinion ;) ) So, everything will be fine, and you'll do great! Congratulations! Your baby is almost here. How cool is that?
ReplyDeleteNot sure why but you & your situation popped in my head around 7pm tonight and I felt the strong urge to pray. I hope things have been boring in the previa department today and that Ron continues to plump up and his lungs grow stronger every day.
ReplyDeleteNo advice. I hope all goes well.
ReplyDeleteI'm late as usual (damn home hard drive)! I have no advice-just wanted to let you know that I'm thinking of you!
ReplyDeleteAlso, a very good friend delivered a caucasion male at 34 or 35 weeks. He didn't need the NICU-just went to the the special care nursery that is a step down from the NICU. He was there for 4 weeks I think, but at almost 5 months now and is developing right on schedule!
Your doing great. 35 weeks is good! You've made it a long way and you've done the best you can for your son. He may or may not need time in the NICU. If he does, just know it's temporary so that he can grow and learn to eat.
ReplyDeleteBest of luck to all of you. Hang in there.