Saturday, July 21, 2007

07/21/07

This morning I met with Dr. Hedriana. He is probably my second favorite, but it's a close call for first place. Dr. Hedriana and Dr. Lanouette (my third favorite) will be the doctors in the hospital next week, so they wanted to give me a heads up on the plan the team of now 5 has decided on.

On Monday, I hit 31 weeks. At 31 weeks, the odds of survival are 97% (compared to 98% at full-term 40 weeks) and while there is still a risk of long term effects, they are lower than before 31 weeks.

Beginning Monday, if labor starts on it's own with things like increased contractions, more powerful contractions or the like, they will not stop labor. They will immediately proceed with an emergency cesarean.

Because I've been doing so well for the pas 7 weeks, the start of labor will more than likely signifiy the onset of an infection. An infection is incredibly dangerous to both Matthew and me, so that is to be avoided at all costs.

On Monday, we will do an ultra sound for estimated fetal growth. He should be at about 3 1/2 pounds. That is our goal. Babies who weigh at least 3 1/2 pounds at delivery have much better odds of not experiencing long term medical problems.

Matthew has been having a lot of hiccups the past few days. This is a great sign since it indicates that he has fluid around his mouth which would have been helping his lungs develop.

Our next mini goal is July 30, which is when I hit 32 weeks. At 32 weeks, his outlook is so much brighter, his lungs may work on their own from the start and he'll be of a healthier birth weight. And of course, our long term goal remains at August 13, 34 weeks.

So, that's where we are at now :)

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