Today was the big day! I say that because when you are on modified bed rest and you only have a doctor's appointment every 2 weeks...it is what you look forward to! So our appointment began with the ultrasound. Oh wait, they did get my vitals first. I learned that I have gained 9 pounds since my last visit 2 weeks ago! I never thought I would be so excited to say that! Dr. Elliott's goal for me is to gain 4pounds a week at least until 26 weeks. Thanks to my mom, I was able to do it!
Back to the ultrasound...unfortunately, I don't have any pictures worthwile of showing. They literally look like blobs. I think its only going to get tougher to get good pictures as the babies get bigger. Today's ultrasound was only to check the babies' heartbeats and their fluid. Both fluid and heartbeats looked really good. I was a little disappointed that we didn't get to measure to see how much they have grown, but that will come next week. But, we are so thankful to God that the babies still look good and there is no sign of TTTS.
Then we met with Dr. E for a little while. We decided that I will start to have appointments weekly rather than every 2 weeks just because of the extreme circumstances of the pregnancy. I think weekly visits will just give me a little more comfort and he supported that! Also, since my contractions are still few and far between, I can continue on modified bed rest (rather than going to strict bed rest.) Modified bed rest is just taking it real easy on the couch most of the time, but I am still able to get out every now and then. For instance, I can go to church on Sundays...which is a huge blessing! Of course, I will not be pushing myself too hard, but its nice to know that I can still get out if I feel as if I have a little cabin fever...this may not be a luxury I will have for very long!
After meeting with Dr. E, he had us meet with Dr. Slater Myer, a neonatologist at Good Sam Hospital. The purpose was for her to explain to us the risks and complications that premature babies of different gestational ages face at delivery. Nick was able to be on the phone to listen in as well. At some point, I will have to be hospitalized even if all is going well and there is no sign of preterm labor. The reason for hospitalization is for constant monitoring of our mono/mono boys. They definitely have the biggest risk for cord entanglement which can happen at any moment. The bigger they get, the less room they have and the more likely it is to occur. Please pray that our little guys stay still and will not get tangled up in one another's cords. Once they are safe and in my arms, they can be boys and wrestle all they like! I know we have to hear all the possibilities and be well-informed about decisions and complications that may occur...and I want to be knowledgeable about all of this. But we haven't forgotten Who is in control and that He has a plan for us and the babies. We pray everyday that He will continue to guide us in making decisions about the pregnancy.
Overall, we are very pleased with my appointment. I consider each day that passes with Sloan, Rocco, Madden & Jagger safe in my womb a huge blessing from the Lord above. We give Him all the glory!
P.S. All I want for Christmas is my hubby! 4 more days til I get to see my man! Please pray for Nick and my mom as travel on Sunday!
