Bed Rest: Week 27

Because of all the complications I experienced when I was pregnant with Bryson, my OB and perinatologists have been monitoring me very carefully this time around. This pregnancy has been progressing well and my perinatologist transferred my care to my regular OB at 24 weeks. Last week (26 weeks in to this pregnancy), however, I started to experience occasional contractions and premature cervical changes.  My doctor put me on a medicine used to stop pre-term contractions and sent me home. 

I visited my OB again on Monday because of increased contractions over the weekend and was diagnosed with pre-term labor after increased cervical change and the contractions picked up during a non-stress test (NST).  I had a positive fetal Fibronectin test which basically means there is an increased chance of going into labor early.  But not everyone with a positive test result delivers right away or even prematurely.  I actually got a positive test with Bryson and still was able to carry him for another month.  As a precaution, I was admitted to the hospital for two steroid shots to help develop the baby's lungs.  I had to wait twenty-four hours between the treatments, but I am glad that I was able to go home in between and be with Bryson and Jarom.  I have also been put on strict bed rest for the remainder of the pregnancy.

While bed rest isn't fun or easy (it's nice for the first few days because you can catch up on all the reading, movies, and games you want, but after that staying in bed or on the couch gets old), it's necessary because I REFUSE to have this child until at least February.  Jarom and even Bryson have to occasionally remind me to get off my feet and "stop helping," but I really have been trying to stay in bed.  Jarom has been a tremendous help around the house and with Bryson, even with his broken bones.  Bryson is getting used to me being down and out and enjoys cuddling with Mom and watching DVDs in our bed.  We've had meals brought in, we received Priesthood blessings, and have had numerous other offers for help, so we're doing well and I'm managing to keep this baby cooking because of it. This week of bed rest has been good.  Now I just have to keep going and make it to term!