Friday, December 30, 2011

33 Weeks and Counting


Normally, my due date is mid-February, however my little guy seems eager to start life early. Was hospitalized for 2 days, right before Christmas, as my blood pressure shot up. Took medication to reduce the blood pressure, which is now normal and I really need to watch my diet, so that my gestational diabetes does not act up. They also gave me a shot of cortisone in my butt, so that the baby's lungs mature faster, just in case he decides to come out early. So much for a medicine-free pregnancy. I was actually feeling great and by chance, when I saw my lung specialist, he advised me of my blood pressure. After that, I went to the pharmacy for 2 days, and they confirmed that my blood pressure was a bit on the high side. I then contacted my doctor and he had me come in for a check up and voila, he put me in the hospital immediately, which surprised me, as I really didn't feel tired or bad. I didn't have time to pack a bag, so my poor husband had to organize all my stuff for me. I admit, I am a high maintenance cat lady, so he had a lot to bring to the hospital, even if it was a short stay. I need all my creams and magic potions, otherwise I look like a scary cat lady. During my stay at the hospital, I did start seeing "black flies" in front of my eyes, which is a symptom of high blood pressure. It actually looked like large black dust particles.

Anyhow, that's all behind me now. I had some good bed rest, ordered a lot of baby stuff online, as I'm really not ready yet and had my last ultrasound today. The baby measures normally, heart is in good condition and he weighs around 2kgs.

For good measure, the doctor has asked a mid-wife to visit me 3 times a week. She brings a monitoring machine and registers the baby's heartbeat for 30 minutes, takes my urine sample and blood pressure. The machine can also tell if I have any contractions. During the first visit, I actually had 3 contractions during the 30 minutes! I didn't even feel them, but she said the machine never lies. During the second visit, no contractions, so I guess bed rest does really make a difference.

The care in France is top notch! I'm in really good hands, feeling very zen and it's all going to happen very soon! So exciting! Just need to keep this bun in the oven for a few more weeks and then it's rock and roll!