Week 27
Greetings and hello to you all.
Today began Xavier's 27th week! Braving the roads early this morning, I drove Rebecca to her appointment. We arrived only a few minutes late and took advantage of the hospital's valet parking service. Very nice, especially in today's weather!
Today's exam consisted of an ultrasound to measure amniotic fluid, fetal heart rate monitoring, BP measurements on Rebecca and protein tests on mom's urine, plus the added bonus of ironing out an insurance glitch.
Two nurses started the ultrasound exam, but had to eventually find a doctor with more skill. The ultrasound machine was not as precise as ones used in the past, and both nurses had trouble finding fluid pockets. One remarked to the other "I feel there is more fluid there" and the other agreed. The amniotic fluid measured at 11.9 mm. This is smaller than the last measurement a few weeks ago. This may or may not be concerning because of the machine's lesser accuracy and comparing its readings to the readings from more sensitive machines. It will, at least, create a baseline for this style of machine, as it will be used weekly for the non-stress test exam.
Xavier's heart rate ranged from 128 to 155, but generally stayed at 144ish. This, at first glance by Dr Donnelly, was concerning and her comment about the "baby not doing so well" brought a pall into the room. She returned later after comparing the chart with previous charts and decided today's measurements are in line with what they have been and her concern lessened.
As Dr. Donnelly told us the baby's measurements were in line with previous measurements, the heart monitor was still attached to Rebecca. We heard several pops, which I thought was just background noise from the monitor, but Dr Donnelly lit up with a smile. (I like Dr Donnelly. She is very expressive and her thoughts and emotions transmit to her face fluidly. When she is concerned, you feel it from her, but when she is excited about something it jumps across to you. She is the doctor who was so excited about the amniotic fluid being around Xavier's head while his lungs formed) She explained these were not background noise, but hiccups! Xavier was hiccuping! She explained this was a very good thing. It demonstrates his nervous system and reflex system are developing well. This was a great blessing to hear, not only the hiccups, but their meaning. Father gave us a wonderful gift this morning!
Rebecca's heart rate was 136/84, and that's a solidly good place for it to be for this pregnancy. This was after hearing about the insurance glitch and Dr. Donnelly suggesting Xavier's health had taken a turn for the worse (which she recanted that opinion several minutes later)
No protein markers were found in Rebecca's urine. For that we also give thanks. Had protein markers been found, Rebecca would have been checked into the in-patient wing immediately.
The insurance glitch turned out to be a non-event; the hospital's insurance person took care of it without us having to get involved other than to explain to her a couple of facts she didn't know.
While waiting for a prescription to be filled, a friend of ours--Liz, the wife of my good friend and college room mate--saw us and came over to say hello. She was visiting the hospital for follow-up on her recent surgery. She and Rebecca spoke for some time while I waited for the prescription. Liz had a glowing testimony about the hospital and its staff. She also explained how to listen to the various types of doctors we will encounter there. Depending on their position with the hospital, some will have better "people skills" than others, so they will deliver facts, ideas and news better than others. Boy, have we learned that! Now we have another means to better interpret a report based on the doctor being a researcher or a fellow, etc. Thanks, Liz!
Our prayers are still focused on Xavier's growth (I am still saying 100 grams), the health of the placenta and its strength to feed Xavier and fuel his growth, and on Xavier getting more oxygen. We are also praying for an increase in amniotic fluid production, the afore-mentioned points will greatly help this last point.
Thank you all for your prayers. They are producing wonderful fruit, and today they allowed us to hear Xavier hiccup! Great is our God!