Hi All -
Our week is off to a great start. Yesterday, we celebrated our 36 weeks pregnant milestone. As such, we've moved into the next critical time zone. According to our twins reference book, weeks 36 - 38 are considered full term for twins, and this is an ideal time for them to arrive. They have a really good possibility of being able to leave the hospital with me when I am discharged after their birth. We're just thrilled to make it this far!
Next, we started today by performing an amniocentesis on each baby. The longest part of the procedure was waiting for the doctor to arrive! That's okay, because in the meantime, our ultrasound technician did another growth estimate on the twins. Our son's weight estimate is now up to 5 lbs. 14 oz. and our daughter has jumped up to 5 lbs. 5 oz. We were really pleased with the weight they were able to gain over the past week. The amnios were mostly uneventful. They stuck a long thin needle in my stomach after the technician found good pockets of amniotic fluid via ultrasound. I chose to not look at the needle, and the first one was quick and painless. The second one was not all that bad either, but I did feel minor discomfort from the needle, because they had to go through the placenta to get to the amniotic sac. I'm now home and resting for the next 24 hours. We'll get some preliminary results this afternoon.
Next, we were on to the hospital for our NST test. Before I was even settled in to reading my book, the nurse came in to tell me the babies had already passed! However, they chose to keep me a bit longer to see how my body was reacting to the amniocentesis. (While uncommon, the amniocentesis can possibly start you into labor.) Go figure, the day that the babies fly through the testing, I have to stay on the monitors! I had an unusually long contraction (for me) during the NST, but it was not painful. So, I was free to go after 40 minutes on the monitors. Not bad at all!
Thanks to all our our followers for all the good thoughts and prayers. They are working!
The latest guess as far as when our babies will join us is now this Friday or Monday next week. Incidentally, Monday is Jim's birthday. I was given strict instructions from Jim when we learned our due date that they could not be born on HIS day. He may need to learn to share! :)
Showing posts with label nst. Show all posts
Showing posts with label nst. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Thursday, February 19, 2009
NST Fun
Hi All,
Today was another NST day. The babies did well. They posted lots of good activity. However, as he often does, my son's heartbeat jumped off and on the monitor because he was wiggling. That delayed us just a bit. I posted lots of activity too - contractions that is, 10 in 45 minutes. The good news is I only felt 2 of them, and even those were mild. So, again, the nurse said it's nothing that should concern us yet.
We continue with last minute baby preparations. I had the fire department install car seat bases in both our vehicles. Jim is extra busy at work, trying to ensure he is in good shape to take a little time off when the babies come.
Other than that, we are taking it as it comes!
Today was another NST day. The babies did well. They posted lots of good activity. However, as he often does, my son's heartbeat jumped off and on the monitor because he was wiggling. That delayed us just a bit. I posted lots of activity too - contractions that is, 10 in 45 minutes. The good news is I only felt 2 of them, and even those were mild. So, again, the nurse said it's nothing that should concern us yet.
We continue with last minute baby preparations. I had the fire department install car seat bases in both our vehicles. Jim is extra busy at work, trying to ensure he is in good shape to take a little time off when the babies come.
Other than that, we are taking it as it comes!
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Happy Valentines Day
Hi All,
Happy Valentines Day! For anyone expecting my usual Thursday update, sorry for the delay. Don't worry, I'm not in labor yet. I wish I had a good excuse, but the truth is I've mostly been resting. The extra weight is taking a toll, and I'm getting increasingly uncomfortable and tired. My pre-natal support "girdle" is now my best friend, other than it's getting too small for me!
As for Thursday's NST, all ended well although it was another one of those longer sessions. My son has gotten quite the reputation as a wiggleworm. He definitely knows when the monitor is on him and does his best to move away. But, most importantly, both babies are still posting healthy activity.
Other than that, I wanted to mention that today is a day that has always been special for me. Of course, as Valentines Day, it is a day to celebrate love. But, more importantly, Valentines Day is the day my older sister Renee was born. It could not be more appropriate, because she is a person that emanated love. Sadly, we lost her in a car accident nearly 20 years ago. But she will always be remembered for her smile that could light up a room and her wonderful personality. I wish she could meet our twins, but I know her light shines down and her spirit lives on.
Us in 1972
I feel greatly blessed that God picked me to be Renee's sister, even though our time together was much too short.
Happy Valentines Day! For anyone expecting my usual Thursday update, sorry for the delay. Don't worry, I'm not in labor yet. I wish I had a good excuse, but the truth is I've mostly been resting. The extra weight is taking a toll, and I'm getting increasingly uncomfortable and tired. My pre-natal support "girdle" is now my best friend, other than it's getting too small for me!
As for Thursday's NST, all ended well although it was another one of those longer sessions. My son has gotten quite the reputation as a wiggleworm. He definitely knows when the monitor is on him and does his best to move away. But, most importantly, both babies are still posting healthy activity.
Other than that, I wanted to mention that today is a day that has always been special for me. Of course, as Valentines Day, it is a day to celebrate love. But, more importantly, Valentines Day is the day my older sister Renee was born. It could not be more appropriate, because she is a person that emanated love. Sadly, we lost her in a car accident nearly 20 years ago. But she will always be remembered for her smile that could light up a room and her wonderful personality. I wish she could meet our twins, but I know her light shines down and her spirit lives on.
Us in 1972
Renee as a HS senior in 1986
Us in 1987
I feel greatly blessed that God picked me to be Renee's sister, even though our time together was much too short.
Monday, February 9, 2009
34 Weeks Pregnant Update - As Good As It Gets
Hi All,
Another trip to the doctor and hospital for me today. All in all, it was a most efficient day! I flew through registration at the hospital and the babies finished the NST testing in record time - 20 minutes flat. We were then on to the doctor, which turned out to be a quick and easy visit as well. Here are statistics from the doctor visit.
Key Measurements:
Baby A Heart rate = 142
Baby B Heart rate = 134
My Belly Measurement = 37 centimeters
My Pregnancy Weight Gain = 43.5 pounds
I was elated that I got to skip the pelvic exam once again this week! Since I have not been feeling any serious contractions, the doctor decided that could wait until next week. As the doctor checked the heart rates, he quipped "Did you know you're pregnant?" My belly measurement is actually down a centimeter. The doctor explained the babies are probably just settling further down into my pelvic area. As for my weight gain, I hope some of it is the babies growing! Otherwise, it's all those bagels catching up to me. I have noticed my legs and ankles getting "fatter". My doctor warned me the more my feet are up, the more water retention that will occur. The other notable comment from the doctor was that if we go into labor at this point, we are not going to attempt to stop labor. It's great to know he is that confident in the babies' growth and development to this point!
Another trip to the doctor and hospital for me today. All in all, it was a most efficient day! I flew through registration at the hospital and the babies finished the NST testing in record time - 20 minutes flat. We were then on to the doctor, which turned out to be a quick and easy visit as well. Here are statistics from the doctor visit.
Key Measurements:
Baby A Heart rate = 142
Baby B Heart rate = 134
My Belly Measurement = 37 centimeters
My Pregnancy Weight Gain = 43.5 pounds
I was elated that I got to skip the pelvic exam once again this week! Since I have not been feeling any serious contractions, the doctor decided that could wait until next week. As the doctor checked the heart rates, he quipped "Did you know you're pregnant?" My belly measurement is actually down a centimeter. The doctor explained the babies are probably just settling further down into my pelvic area. As for my weight gain, I hope some of it is the babies growing! Otherwise, it's all those bagels catching up to me. I have noticed my legs and ankles getting "fatter". My doctor warned me the more my feet are up, the more water retention that will occur. The other notable comment from the doctor was that if we go into labor at this point, we are not going to attempt to stop labor. It's great to know he is that confident in the babies' growth and development to this point!
Friday, February 6, 2009
Another day, another NST
Hi All,
I'm just getting to the NST update from Thursday, as it was a busy day. We had what felt like a long morning in the hospital. But mostly, it was due to delays. I started out by getting there 10 minutes late (which is a first) and then ran into heavy traffic in the registration area (which is also a first). So, I probably ended up hooked up to the monitors 45 minutes later than usual.
I've been pretty interested in intently watching the NST heartbeat and contraction monitors up until now. But this was my fifth week of monitoring, and I think I'm becoming bored with it. Today, I was mostly frustrated that I was on the monitors over an hour, when I knew my dad was stopping by my place soon. Of course, I jinxed myself by telling him there was no way the NST would go past 11 am. Our girl passed her test in no time. I think our boy's activity was fine all along, however, he kept jumping on and off the monitor reading, either because he was moving too much or we just didn't have the monitor in a good spot to start with. I was certain he passed not long after the monitor was adjusted 20 minutes in, but it was a long time before the nurse came back to tell me I could leave. Apparently, she was in the middle of giving an epidural to another patient. I guess I will live and learn to not schedule anything after my NSTs.
There were some positives to the hospital visit yesterday. It is a small hospital, and I am considered a regular there. I know all the women in registration, or should I say they know me. They've all taken an interest in my pregnancy and always ask how I am and how much longer. I also know several of the OB nurses, which is nice because there is a good chance I'll see them again when I deliver. I have had many hesitations about my hospital, solely for the fact that it does not have a NICU. (If I go into labor too soon, I will be directed to another hospital in the area with NICU.) But I believe as long as I can make it to 35 or 36 weeks, my doctor will let me deliver at this hospital. In the outside chance we would still need NICU attention, the babies would be transferred. I don't at all like the thought of being separated from the babies in the event this happens. But I am keeping the faith that all will be well, and we will cross the "complications" bridge if and when we come to it.
My dad and uncle spent the afternoon with me, troubleshooting the recent round of "issues" around the house. We bought a new home in September and had to replace all the appliances, as the previous owners took theirs. We have had so many problems with new household items not working ever since, all we can do is laugh about it.
In other news, Jim and I attended Breastfeeding Class on Wednesday evening. I have heard loud and clear how challenging breastfeeding can be, especially with twins, and I do not doubt it one bit. However, I'm still perplexed as to how you prepare for this. I have a book that my friend Tracy loaned to me on breastfeeding. That is one of my February projects. I apparently "don't know what I don't know", because I'm surprised they could write a whole book on this topic. Soon enough, I will probably be eating these words.
Other than that, I feel the babies are continuing to grow well. They feel so big now, that when they move around it causes a major commotion in my belly! Funny bumps protruding from my belly are pretty much a constant at this point. Although billions of women have had this experience, it's still awe-inspiring to me. Thank you babies!
I'm just getting to the NST update from Thursday, as it was a busy day. We had what felt like a long morning in the hospital. But mostly, it was due to delays. I started out by getting there 10 minutes late (which is a first) and then ran into heavy traffic in the registration area (which is also a first). So, I probably ended up hooked up to the monitors 45 minutes later than usual.
I've been pretty interested in intently watching the NST heartbeat and contraction monitors up until now. But this was my fifth week of monitoring, and I think I'm becoming bored with it. Today, I was mostly frustrated that I was on the monitors over an hour, when I knew my dad was stopping by my place soon. Of course, I jinxed myself by telling him there was no way the NST would go past 11 am. Our girl passed her test in no time. I think our boy's activity was fine all along, however, he kept jumping on and off the monitor reading, either because he was moving too much or we just didn't have the monitor in a good spot to start with. I was certain he passed not long after the monitor was adjusted 20 minutes in, but it was a long time before the nurse came back to tell me I could leave. Apparently, she was in the middle of giving an epidural to another patient. I guess I will live and learn to not schedule anything after my NSTs.
There were some positives to the hospital visit yesterday. It is a small hospital, and I am considered a regular there. I know all the women in registration, or should I say they know me. They've all taken an interest in my pregnancy and always ask how I am and how much longer. I also know several of the OB nurses, which is nice because there is a good chance I'll see them again when I deliver. I have had many hesitations about my hospital, solely for the fact that it does not have a NICU. (If I go into labor too soon, I will be directed to another hospital in the area with NICU.) But I believe as long as I can make it to 35 or 36 weeks, my doctor will let me deliver at this hospital. In the outside chance we would still need NICU attention, the babies would be transferred. I don't at all like the thought of being separated from the babies in the event this happens. But I am keeping the faith that all will be well, and we will cross the "complications" bridge if and when we come to it.
My dad and uncle spent the afternoon with me, troubleshooting the recent round of "issues" around the house. We bought a new home in September and had to replace all the appliances, as the previous owners took theirs. We have had so many problems with new household items not working ever since, all we can do is laugh about it.
In other news, Jim and I attended Breastfeeding Class on Wednesday evening. I have heard loud and clear how challenging breastfeeding can be, especially with twins, and I do not doubt it one bit. However, I'm still perplexed as to how you prepare for this. I have a book that my friend Tracy loaned to me on breastfeeding. That is one of my February projects. I apparently "don't know what I don't know", because I'm surprised they could write a whole book on this topic. Soon enough, I will probably be eating these words.
Other than that, I feel the babies are continuing to grow well. They feel so big now, that when they move around it causes a major commotion in my belly! Funny bumps protruding from my belly are pretty much a constant at this point. Although billions of women have had this experience, it's still awe-inspiring to me. Thank you babies!
Thursday, January 29, 2009
NST Day and Growing Belly
Hi All,
Today was NST day once again. All ended well, but it was another longer session for two reasons. First, our girl had another episode of the hiccups, and second, they both fell asleep shortly after the session began. So, after waiting it out a bit, both babies received the "alarm clock" treatment (vibrator alerting them to wake up). We were then able to successfully complete the testing session without issue.
I also talked with the nurse a bit regarding contractions, as the contraction monitor posted several contractions during my extended session. I started feeling contractions for the first time this week. However, they are mild. (I rated them a 2 out of 10 on the discomfort scale.) So, we're not getting concerned at this point. At least the nurses are not! As a first time mom, with the risk of pre-term labor, I think I'm perhaps more paranoid than I need to be.
In other news, I'm sure everyone saw octuplets were born to a woman in California this week. Wow! I'm still amazed at how much "stuff" we need for two babies, let alone eight. We have been very fortunate in that we have received many wonderful gifts from family and friends. Plus, some good friends have loaned us their baby gear, which really helps keep us covered for the double addition.
Okay, I've gotten some requests for more pictures of me. I've been relatively camera shy during the pregnancy. But my friend Colleen (and mother of three) shared with me over the weekend that her pregnancy shots are among her kids' favorites. So, I'm going to see what I can do over the last few weeks here. Below is this week's belly shot.
Today was NST day once again. All ended well, but it was another longer session for two reasons. First, our girl had another episode of the hiccups, and second, they both fell asleep shortly after the session began. So, after waiting it out a bit, both babies received the "alarm clock" treatment (vibrator alerting them to wake up). We were then able to successfully complete the testing session without issue.
I also talked with the nurse a bit regarding contractions, as the contraction monitor posted several contractions during my extended session. I started feeling contractions for the first time this week. However, they are mild. (I rated them a 2 out of 10 on the discomfort scale.) So, we're not getting concerned at this point. At least the nurses are not! As a first time mom, with the risk of pre-term labor, I think I'm perhaps more paranoid than I need to be.
In other news, I'm sure everyone saw octuplets were born to a woman in California this week. Wow! I'm still amazed at how much "stuff" we need for two babies, let alone eight. We have been very fortunate in that we have received many wonderful gifts from family and friends. Plus, some good friends have loaned us their baby gear, which really helps keep us covered for the double addition.
Okay, I've gotten some requests for more pictures of me. I've been relatively camera shy during the pregnancy. But my friend Colleen (and mother of three) shared with me over the weekend that her pregnancy shots are among her kids' favorites. So, I'm going to see what I can do over the last few weeks here. Below is this week's belly shot.
Belly Shot - 32.5 Weeks Pregnant
My how I've grown - all for good cause!
Monday, January 26, 2009
32 Weeks Pregnant Update
Hi All,
We had a long but good day at the doctor and hospital today.
First of all, we are celebrating a milestone today. We are 32 weeks pregnant and entering our 33rd week. This means we have moved into the next critical time zone of development. Acccording to our twins reference book, weeks 33 - 35 are considered pre-term for multiples. Twins are often born during this time frame. In general, they may need to spend up to two weeks in the hospital, but are unlikely to experience any long term effects from their pre-term birth (assuming they have grown well thus far). So, we are very happy to have made it this far!
We started out at the doctor's office this morning for our weekly appointment. This was also an ultrasound day for us, and my mom was able to attend.
Here are a few pictures of our son from the today's ultrasound. Our daughter is now facing my back side, which our ultrasound technician said is exactly what she is supposed to be doing as we prepare for labor. At any rate, for this reason we were unable to get any shots of her face or profile.
Profile of our son at 32 weeks
Our son's face at 32 weeks
Key Measurements from our ultrasound/doctor appointment:
Baby A (girl) Weight Estimate = 3 lbs 14 oz. (24th percentile)
Baby B (boy) Weight Estimate = 4 lbs 8 oz. (64th percentile)
Baby A Heart rate = 125
Baby B Heart rate = 136
My Belly Measurement = 37 centimeters
My Pregnancy Weight Gain = 37.5 pounds
My cervix length is also still measuring well, per the ultrasound.
The doctor also detected a small amount of cervix dilation (less than 2 cm.) during my pelvic exam. I need to continue to wear my maternity support belt/girdle to keep pressure off my cervix.
We are also keeping an eye on our daughter's weight. At this point, our doctor is mostly concerned that she stay above the 10th percentile. We will see where she is at in 3 weeks when we are scheduled for our next ultrasound (if we are still pregnant!)
Next, my mom and I were on to the hospital for my NST. Our daughter passed the NST quickly today, but apparently our son decided it was nap time. The nurse, Tracia, brought in what she called a little alarm clock for him. She placed a little vibrating tool on my belly over my son. That seemed to do the trick. The other interesting part of the NST session was the contraction monitor. I noticed several contractions on the monitor (although I still could not feel them) - many more than I'm used to seeing. We are not getting concerned yet, since as long as the contractions continue to be this mild, we are likely not in danger of pre-term labor.
My mom mentioned the babies appear to be sitting much lower than before. I think she is right, and perhaps they have started dropping into position. To be honest, this makes me a little nervous! We'd like to keep the babies gestating for a while longer yet. The good news is we feel pretty confident they can handle the outside world with all little help at this point.
Other than that, I am continuing to take it easy. I have taken up residence on our couch. I find I sleep better there, between the support from the back rests and arm rests. We are continuing to finalize our preparations. Jim has strongly suggested I pack my hospital bag, so it has made it's way out of the closet.
Oh, I almost forgot, I'm updating our baby ticker on the blog to reflect our scheduled c-section date. We're really excited this is scheduled!
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Hi All,
We were back to the hospital today for another NST test. I learned a bit more this week about how the non-stress tests are evaluated. As mentioned before, the medical staff is looking for a change in the heart rates with the babies' activity. I learned that specifically, they consider an acceleration of the heart rate by 15 beats per minute is the measure of success (at least at the stage in pregnancy that we are currently).
We had another good day on the monitors. I drank a little juice before heading to the hospital, and the babies really responded.
On a fun note, I am including pictures from our "baby carrier practice session" from a few weeks back. We enjoy walking / hiking trails, and the babies will be along for the ride this summer. We hope they like it as much as we do!
We were back to the hospital today for another NST test. I learned a bit more this week about how the non-stress tests are evaluated. As mentioned before, the medical staff is looking for a change in the heart rates with the babies' activity. I learned that specifically, they consider an acceleration of the heart rate by 15 beats per minute is the measure of success (at least at the stage in pregnancy that we are currently).
We had another good day on the monitors. I drank a little juice before heading to the hospital, and the babies really responded.
On a fun note, I am including pictures from our "baby carrier practice session" from a few weeks back. We enjoy walking / hiking trails, and the babies will be along for the ride this summer. We hope they like it as much as we do!
Jim experimenting.
Our cat, Blanca - unwilling participant.
Success! Of course the real test is yet to come!
Monday, January 19, 2009
31 Weeks Pregnant Update
I was back to the doctor's office today for my weekly checkup. My doctor let me off the hook with the pelvic exam today, given the fact that I have not felt any contractions as of yet or had any other complications or concerns as of late.
Other Measurements:
My Belly Measurement = 34.5 centimeters (this is down a half a centimeter, not sure how that happened)
My Pregnancy Weight Gain = 35.5 pounds
Other than that, my doctor ran through a few precautionary instructions with me. One of which was I need to inform him and go to the hospital sooner than usual at this point if I were to start real contractions(once they are coming every 15 minutes). This is because at this point, we would still want to attempt to stop labor if possible, which is apparently more difficult with twins.
I then was on to the hospital for my NST. Things went well. Our son was putting on quite a show with lots of activity and passed with flying colors. Our daughter was doing equally well, but 10 minutes into the testing came down with a case of the hiccups. This threw off the monitor, as it was confusing the hiccups with a heartbeat. We stayed on the monitor for a bit longer for this reason, but all ended up well. My nurse, Becky, shared that she is also a mother of twins, so it was nice to learn a bit about her experiences.
31 Weeks Pregnant and Going Strong!
Other Measurements:
My Belly Measurement = 34.5 centimeters (this is down a half a centimeter, not sure how that happened)
My Pregnancy Weight Gain = 35.5 pounds
Other than that, my doctor ran through a few precautionary instructions with me. One of which was I need to inform him and go to the hospital sooner than usual at this point if I were to start real contractions(once they are coming every 15 minutes). This is because at this point, we would still want to attempt to stop labor if possible, which is apparently more difficult with twins.
I then was on to the hospital for my NST. Things went well. Our son was putting on quite a show with lots of activity and passed with flying colors. Our daughter was doing equally well, but 10 minutes into the testing came down with a case of the hiccups. This threw off the monitor, as it was confusing the hiccups with a heartbeat. We stayed on the monitor for a bit longer for this reason, but all ended up well. My nurse, Becky, shared that she is also a mother of twins, so it was nice to learn a bit about her experiences.
31 Weeks Pregnant and Going Strong!
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Nursery In Progress
Hi All,
Just a few things to report today.
First, we had another NST this morning. It was all routine, and the results continue to be good at 30 1/2 weeks.
Second, I thought I would post a few pictures of the nursery in progress. We (or should I say Jim) managed to get the cribs put together shortly after Christmas. I was a little nervous that it would not go well, given our track record with the assembly of some other household items. I suggested we get one of the engineers in the family to assist (e.g. Jim's dad or brother), because I knew I would be of no use to him. But Jim exceeded expectations and got the cribs set up without issue!
Boy's crib with sports theme crib set.
Girl's crib in pink / brown design theme.
Monkey decor on walls.
Our dog Riley in on the action.
We don't have our crib mattresses yet, so the bedding is not really in place yet. We put the monkeys up on the wall recently. I'm starting to think we have a "multiple personality" nursery with all the different themes. But Jim voted for the sports theme, and I'm a big fan of the pink and brown they are making for girls now. I'm sure the kids won't mind!
All is well for the time being. Somedays, I swear I can feel the babies growing as my belly continues to expand! It's really starting to sink in that they will be joining us soon, and we couldn't be more excited!
Monday, January 12, 2009
30 Weeks Pregnant Update
Hi All,
I had my weekly doctor appointment today, as well as another NST.
Results of the Doctor's exam:
Belly Measurement = 35 centimeters (approximating someone pregnant for 35 weeks)
Then, I was on to the hospital for my 3rd NST. Apparently, the third is a charm. Everything went wonderfully - the monitors went right on and the babies were very cooperative and adequately active in the first 20 minute monitoring session. So, we were out of there in record time.
So, I'm happy to report all signs are good for now!
I had my weekly doctor appointment today, as well as another NST.
Results of the Doctor's exam:
Belly Measurement = 35 centimeters (approximating someone pregnant for 35 weeks)
My Pregnancy Weight Gain = 34 lbs.
That's pretty much all I got, as once again the doctor was not able to reach my cervix for a check during my pelvic exam (or what we are now affectionately calling my torture session). We are assuming that means the cervix is still very high and not at all dilated, which is all good. The pelvic exams have been insanely uncomfortable for me, so the doctor has opted to put me out of my misery if he does not get to the cervix pretty immediately. I'm not sure if it's me and my lack of tolerance, or if the nature of the exam is that uncomfortable for many pregnant women.
Other than that, I was a little taken aback that I gained 3 pounds over the past week. I was expecting (or maybe hoping) for 1 - 1.5 lbs./week from here on out. But the doctor is not at all concerned. This is the time when the babies are growing quickly and additional water retention could be happening. So we'll maybe cut back on the sweets a bit and otherwise take it as it comes.Then, I was on to the hospital for my 3rd NST. Apparently, the third is a charm. Everything went wonderfully - the monitors went right on and the babies were very cooperative and adequately active in the first 20 minute monitoring session. So, we were out of there in record time.
So, I'm happy to report all signs are good for now!
Thursday, January 8, 2009
NST #2
Hi All,
Today was my second NST (non-stress test) and it went well.
I reported in and found no one staffing the OB Triage area, where the test is normally administered. For those not familiar, triage is oftentimes where one is first sent when entering the hospital. It is a monitoring area (large room with several beds), where evaluations and decisions are made to determine where to send you next, as necessary.
The nurse working with me was called, and she took me to an actual labor and delivery room to perform the test, as she had another admitted patient in the L&D ward to work with during my test. This was a nice treat, as the room was more comfortable and had a TV.
The babies' monitors went in place much more quickly today. The only downside of the room was I could not watch the monitor as easily, as it was behind and to the right of my bed. However, I did catch one contraction pop up on the screen during the first 20 minute session. Debbie, my nurse, showed up when the session was over and indicated the boy was being a bit of a stinker and moved away from the monitor. So, we made some adjustments and started another 20 minute monitoring session. This one was successful, and the babies' activity was good. I thought I saw another contraction on the monitor during this second session. The nurse confirmed that they picked up occasional contractions during the sessions. She went on to explain that my body thinks it is much closer to full term than it actually is, due to the twins and the relatively larger size of my uterus. As long as the contractions are not getting sharper or more frequent, they are likely just the Braxton Hicks practice contractions. So, we will continue on as usual.
On the twins front, I received some great news today. One of my work associates in Ohio gave birth to her twins Tuesday at 35 weeks, after a long stretch of very strict bedrest, including a long stay in the hospital. The babies weighed in at 5 lb. 9 oz. and 3 lb. 15 oz. Everyone is doing well, and the best part is the babies did not need any NICU (neo-natal intensive care) attention and will go home with their mom later this week. Congrats to Amy and family!
Today was my second NST (non-stress test) and it went well.
I reported in and found no one staffing the OB Triage area, where the test is normally administered. For those not familiar, triage is oftentimes where one is first sent when entering the hospital. It is a monitoring area (large room with several beds), where evaluations and decisions are made to determine where to send you next, as necessary.
The nurse working with me was called, and she took me to an actual labor and delivery room to perform the test, as she had another admitted patient in the L&D ward to work with during my test. This was a nice treat, as the room was more comfortable and had a TV.
The babies' monitors went in place much more quickly today. The only downside of the room was I could not watch the monitor as easily, as it was behind and to the right of my bed. However, I did catch one contraction pop up on the screen during the first 20 minute session. Debbie, my nurse, showed up when the session was over and indicated the boy was being a bit of a stinker and moved away from the monitor. So, we made some adjustments and started another 20 minute monitoring session. This one was successful, and the babies' activity was good. I thought I saw another contraction on the monitor during this second session. The nurse confirmed that they picked up occasional contractions during the sessions. She went on to explain that my body thinks it is much closer to full term than it actually is, due to the twins and the relatively larger size of my uterus. As long as the contractions are not getting sharper or more frequent, they are likely just the Braxton Hicks practice contractions. So, we will continue on as usual.
On the twins front, I received some great news today. One of my work associates in Ohio gave birth to her twins Tuesday at 35 weeks, after a long stretch of very strict bedrest, including a long stay in the hospital. The babies weighed in at 5 lb. 9 oz. and 3 lb. 15 oz. Everyone is doing well, and the best part is the babies did not need any NICU (neo-natal intensive care) attention and will go home with their mom later this week. Congrats to Amy and family!
Monday, January 5, 2009
29 Weeks Pregnant Update
We had an eventful day of appointments on Monday. We started out getting an ultrasound, then on to see the doctor, and finally over to the hospital for a NST test. At 29 weeks, here are some of the key statistics that were measured:
Baby A (girl) Weight Estimate = 2 lbs 13 oz.
Baby B (boy) Weight Estimate = 3 lbs 3 oz.
Baby A Heartbeat = 143
Baby B Heartbeat = 143
My Belly Measurement = 34 centimeters
My Pregnancy Weight Gain = 31 pounds
We also had a check of my cervix length via ultrasound. We did not get the exact measurement but were told it is fine at this time.
And some pictures from the 29 week ultrasound....
This is our girl's profile
Our boy's face
And last, a shot of both babies' heads
It becomes more challenging to capture good ultrasound pics as the babies grow and only parts can be seen on the screen. I thought these turned out really nicely, and thanks to the babies for their cooperation!
Baby boy is in the 64th percentile for growth at this point, and baby girl is in the 29th percentile. (Apparently she will be our delicate one! :) These percentile markers are for singletons, and multiples are expected to lag a bit while in utero. We asked if we should be concerned about our girl's percentile. The doctor said not at all at this point. The point where there would be concern would be at the 5th or 10th percentile.
Another issue we will continue to monitor is the relative size of each baby. Again, with our boy being 6 ounces bigger, we need not be concerned. However, the last ultrasound 5 weeks ago showed the boy was 3 ounces heavier. If the discrepancy were to continue to widen and by too wide a margin, there could be some question as to whether the boy was getting more than his fair share of the nutrition delivered to the babies. That could also mean potential distress to the girl. For now, we will assume our girl is content to be our petite little princess.
As for my belly measurement, I am measuring 5 weeks ahead of my due date. Again, the measurement standard is for a singleton birth, so this is completely normal for us.
Another ultrasound finding was that the babies have completely changed positions. I know this is common and actually expected at this stage. But the babies have literally been transverse (sideways) the entire time we have received ultrasounds, and now they have both maneuvered into the head down position. We laughed, as I had told Liz, the ultrasound technician, that I felt the boy kicking me a lot, but hardly ever felt the girl. (This is because last we knew, the boy was sideways on top of the girl, and his kicks were all very high.) Then Liz delivered the news that both babies are now kicking high from their current head-down positions. Sorry little man, for blaming you for some of your sister's handiwork!
All in all, the ultrasound was a fun one. My dad was able to attend this one, and he got to feel the babies' rumps through my belly as the technician pointed them out.
We were on to see the doctor then. I was glad to hear a pelvic exam was not needed today. These are not my favorite. We basically discussed the aforementioned growth issues and also discussed vaginal vs. c-section birth, given the babies are now both head down. I have been anticipating a c-section with the previous positioning of the babies (transverse babies need to be c-section) and asked the doctor if I should be reconsidering. He said it is certainly my option if both continue to be head down, but still recommended a c-section if I am at all on the fence on the subject. This is because there is still a possibility of complications with vaginal delivery, such as the second baby flipping once the first comes out going the vaginal route, which would require a c-section following one vaginal delivery - ugh! So, I am content with the idea of a c-section at this point.
I will return for weekly doctor visits from here on out.
Next, I was on to the hospital for my first NST (non-stress test). In layman's terms, this is a test of the babies' heart activity over a 20 minute period. It is called "non stress", because it is completely non-invasive. Fetal heart monitors are strapped to my belly over the location of the babies hearts. Basically, they track for changes in the heartbeat and want to see a jump in the heartbeat when movement takes place. I also had a contraction monitor attached to my belly.
The nurses had a difficult time placing the monitor in the location of the boy's heartbeat; he may have been moving too much. An hour, three nurses, and an ultrasound (to pinpoint exact location of the heart) later, we had all monitors securely in place. I was already quite uncomfortable at this point, as I had been flat on my back for the hour. Luckily, the 20 minutes of monitoring went well, and we got the activity and responses the nurses wanted from the babies. I watched the monitor for a few minutes to see if I could recognize the jumps in the heartbeats. But, that also meant I was watching the time tick away all too slowly. So, I decided to read a magazine for the remainder of the test. The nurse informed me that I had a contraction during the 20 minute monitoring and asked if I had felt it. I did not feel a thing. As a precaution, the nurse took a urine sample to ensure I did not have any infections that would be causing contractions. The urine test came back negative, and I was instructed to drink more water and rest for the afternoon.
I have been fearing for a while that I will not recognize what a contraction feels like, even after all the reading and advice I have received from other moms. I will return to the hospital twice per week now for NSTs, and I plan to watch the contraction monitor and pay attention to what I'm feeling if and when the machine says I'm having another one.
Other than that, I'm taking the "plenty of water and rest" advice more seriously. One of my books suggests I should be drinking eight 16 ounce glasses of water per day to keep the contractions in check. I have never been great at getting the recommended daily intake of water, but this is good motivation. Drinking as much water and milk as recommended leaves little room for my pop vice (I had been enjoying a Sprite or caffeine free Diet Coke a day in my early pregnancy days). But the days of being a Diet Coke junkie are over, at least for now!
More to follow!
PS - My good friend Tracy is taking her 3 1/2 month old twins to the doctor today for another repeat of their hearing tests, which they have both now failed multiple times, despite the fact that she is certain they hear her and other sounds around the home. If you know Tracy, please send good thoughts her way!
Baby A (girl) Weight Estimate = 2 lbs 13 oz.
Baby B (boy) Weight Estimate = 3 lbs 3 oz.
Baby A Heartbeat = 143
Baby B Heartbeat = 143
My Belly Measurement = 34 centimeters
My Pregnancy Weight Gain = 31 pounds
We also had a check of my cervix length via ultrasound. We did not get the exact measurement but were told it is fine at this time.
And some pictures from the 29 week ultrasound....
This is our girl's profile
A 3D shot of our girl's face
Our boy's face
And last, a shot of both babies' heads
It becomes more challenging to capture good ultrasound pics as the babies grow and only parts can be seen on the screen. I thought these turned out really nicely, and thanks to the babies for their cooperation!
Baby boy is in the 64th percentile for growth at this point, and baby girl is in the 29th percentile. (Apparently she will be our delicate one! :) These percentile markers are for singletons, and multiples are expected to lag a bit while in utero. We asked if we should be concerned about our girl's percentile. The doctor said not at all at this point. The point where there would be concern would be at the 5th or 10th percentile.
Another issue we will continue to monitor is the relative size of each baby. Again, with our boy being 6 ounces bigger, we need not be concerned. However, the last ultrasound 5 weeks ago showed the boy was 3 ounces heavier. If the discrepancy were to continue to widen and by too wide a margin, there could be some question as to whether the boy was getting more than his fair share of the nutrition delivered to the babies. That could also mean potential distress to the girl. For now, we will assume our girl is content to be our petite little princess.
As for my belly measurement, I am measuring 5 weeks ahead of my due date. Again, the measurement standard is for a singleton birth, so this is completely normal for us.
Another ultrasound finding was that the babies have completely changed positions. I know this is common and actually expected at this stage. But the babies have literally been transverse (sideways) the entire time we have received ultrasounds, and now they have both maneuvered into the head down position. We laughed, as I had told Liz, the ultrasound technician, that I felt the boy kicking me a lot, but hardly ever felt the girl. (This is because last we knew, the boy was sideways on top of the girl, and his kicks were all very high.) Then Liz delivered the news that both babies are now kicking high from their current head-down positions. Sorry little man, for blaming you for some of your sister's handiwork!
All in all, the ultrasound was a fun one. My dad was able to attend this one, and he got to feel the babies' rumps through my belly as the technician pointed them out.
We were on to see the doctor then. I was glad to hear a pelvic exam was not needed today. These are not my favorite. We basically discussed the aforementioned growth issues and also discussed vaginal vs. c-section birth, given the babies are now both head down. I have been anticipating a c-section with the previous positioning of the babies (transverse babies need to be c-section) and asked the doctor if I should be reconsidering. He said it is certainly my option if both continue to be head down, but still recommended a c-section if I am at all on the fence on the subject. This is because there is still a possibility of complications with vaginal delivery, such as the second baby flipping once the first comes out going the vaginal route, which would require a c-section following one vaginal delivery - ugh! So, I am content with the idea of a c-section at this point.
I will return for weekly doctor visits from here on out.
Next, I was on to the hospital for my first NST (non-stress test). In layman's terms, this is a test of the babies' heart activity over a 20 minute period. It is called "non stress", because it is completely non-invasive. Fetal heart monitors are strapped to my belly over the location of the babies hearts. Basically, they track for changes in the heartbeat and want to see a jump in the heartbeat when movement takes place. I also had a contraction monitor attached to my belly.
The nurses had a difficult time placing the monitor in the location of the boy's heartbeat; he may have been moving too much. An hour, three nurses, and an ultrasound (to pinpoint exact location of the heart) later, we had all monitors securely in place. I was already quite uncomfortable at this point, as I had been flat on my back for the hour. Luckily, the 20 minutes of monitoring went well, and we got the activity and responses the nurses wanted from the babies. I watched the monitor for a few minutes to see if I could recognize the jumps in the heartbeats. But, that also meant I was watching the time tick away all too slowly. So, I decided to read a magazine for the remainder of the test. The nurse informed me that I had a contraction during the 20 minute monitoring and asked if I had felt it. I did not feel a thing. As a precaution, the nurse took a urine sample to ensure I did not have any infections that would be causing contractions. The urine test came back negative, and I was instructed to drink more water and rest for the afternoon.
I have been fearing for a while that I will not recognize what a contraction feels like, even after all the reading and advice I have received from other moms. I will return to the hospital twice per week now for NSTs, and I plan to watch the contraction monitor and pay attention to what I'm feeling if and when the machine says I'm having another one.
Other than that, I'm taking the "plenty of water and rest" advice more seriously. One of my books suggests I should be drinking eight 16 ounce glasses of water per day to keep the contractions in check. I have never been great at getting the recommended daily intake of water, but this is good motivation. Drinking as much water and milk as recommended leaves little room for my pop vice (I had been enjoying a Sprite or caffeine free Diet Coke a day in my early pregnancy days). But the days of being a Diet Coke junkie are over, at least for now!
More to follow!
PS - My good friend Tracy is taking her 3 1/2 month old twins to the doctor today for another repeat of their hearing tests, which they have both now failed multiple times, despite the fact that she is certain they hear her and other sounds around the home. If you know Tracy, please send good thoughts her way!
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