update

Baby Looloo at 27 weeks, 4 days. Our daughter, our second born, the newest addition to our family....

As promised, here is my post-October 5 update.

My ultrasound was a very long, drawn out affair. What was quickly evident though was that my placenta had not moved at all. It is still completely blocking the opening to my cervix. This means Baby Looloo will not be able to be born naturally like her big sister was. I will be having a c-section at some future determined date. This also means that I have to start seeing a doctor. My midwife will stay involved by being at the delivery and providing care during the 6 weeks after our daughter is born.

What does this mean for our family? The risk with complete previa is that Looloo and I won't make it full-term (40 weeks). More likely than not, I will bleed/spot at some point, which they call a "warning" bleed. I will be checked out thoroughly (as will babe) and a decision will be made as to when Looloo should be born (then, in the following weeks, etc.). The second bleed means Looloo gets to join us right away. Both mother and babe are at great risk at this point and that's why a c-section will happen right away.

THANK GOD it doesn't mean bed rest. Research has shown that bed rest is not a proven way to delay the onset of labour (in this case). That is the risk with a complete previa: preterm labour. I am still to avoid anything strenuous and rigorous, and generally take it easy.

I will receive a steroid shot (IN MY BUTT??!!!) next week to help Looloo's lungs develop faster.

How does this make us feel?

1. I am relieved to know. It has been on my mind for several weeks, wondering. The ultrasound results were conclusive, and that is helpful to move forward and make a plan.

2. I am a little disappointed that I won't get to experience a vaginal labour and delivery again. It was a very good experience with Ro and I was very curious to know what this labour and delivery would be like.

3. I am a little relieved that I won't be going through a vaginal labour and delivery. The unknown is always the scariest part. :) Also, Looloo is measuring quite large already, so my vagina is thankful to be spared the fast exit of baby again.

4. The planner in me is quite excited to know exactly when Looloo will be joining our family, especially at Christmas time.

5. I know God is in control of all things, big and small. I have complete trust that this will work out and that both Looloo and I will be safe.

Thanks for your prayers and thoughts over the coming weeks. I am 28 weeks along, and so far, everything is just fine. We are all getting very excited about meeting the new addition to our family, and everything is ready for her arrival. Her bedroom is very cute!!

Ro at Springridge Farm last Friday, celebrating Auntie Christa's 36th birthday.

Ro and Christa.