Tomorrow will mark 37 weeks in the pregnancy. We have come a long way in a short period of time. Yesterday, we were fortunate to receive family and friends at our very last baby shower in Atlanta. We again thank those who came out on a hot sunny afternoon! And kudos to Samantha, Whitney, and Celeste for putting on a great shower!
Since our last blog, quite a bit has happened. This past Saturday, we had the opportunity to take maternity photos, which are going to look terrific! We also purchased and installed a car seat and finalized the baby's room, with the crib mattress as the only outstanding item (should arrive mid-week). However, our most important development happened last Wednesday.
As mentioned in prior blogs, Erin's blood pressure has fluctuated quite a bit, and the midwife and doctor have been monitoring it very closely. Last Wednesday, her blood pressure results remained high, and we were urged to admit Erin to the hospital overnight for a 24-hour observation period. We consented and immediately went to the hospital that night. During the stay, Erin's blood pressure readings were monitored every hour, along with tests for urine and blood. All the results were normal, and Erin was released Thursday night. Since the hospital stay, Erin has continued to remain on bed rest, with the exception of the baby shower and photo shoot.
As we reach full-term tomorrow, we are continuing to monitor Erin's blood pressure, as the readings have continued to fluctuate since her stay in the hospital. Maintaining normal blood pressure is critical at this stage for a variety reasons, but for today's blog, we'd like to outline its importance for water birth. We continue to plan and expect a natural water birth. However, if the readings continue to fluctuate and remain high, Erin will be unable to do a water birth and may need to have induced labor to prevent potential health hazards (toxemia and pre-eclampsia).
Obviously, the emotions have remained high as we process all the changes and potential scenarios. For months, we have been planning for a water birth and now may have to move forward with an induced labor. For us, this will require a new mindset as we prepare for the labor process. In addition to planning for a water birth, we will also need to plan for an induced labor if it is required. We continue to advocate for a natural birth process, but we understand and trust our birth team if we need to have an induced labor.
Currently, we are monitoring Erin's blood pressure over the next 24 hours and will assess our next steps with our birth team tomorrow and Wednesday. Most importantly, we are praying for the continued good health and well being for the baby and Erin. Throughout these past few days, we are fortunate that the baby is fine and that Erin has not developed any serious symptoms alongside the high blood pressure readings. We ask that you join us in praying for a successful and healthy delivery of Pooka, regardless of the birth method.
For all those who have called, we thank you for your outreach, love and support. We definitely want to speak with everyone who has called but have been trying to catch-up on our rest and keeping Erin in a state of bed rest. If you'd like to send an email (paulanderin2007@gmail.com), we'd love to hear from you. You can also post a note on Facebook.
I think we've posted enough for today's blog. Thanks again for all of the love and support. This may or may not be the last blog before Pooka's arrival, so stay tuned!
-Paul & Erin
No comments:
Post a Comment