37w3d OB Update

I had my 37-week checkup today. My blood pressure was normal, as usual. The NST machine was out for repair, so they were not able to monitor the baby's heart rate and my contractions as they usually do. So the OB did a more detailed ultrasound instead. As of today, Blake is weighing around 6 lbs 12 oz -- still very average for 37 weeks gestation. Everything looked great and normal on the ultrasound: amniotic fluid level, anatomic measurements, breathing pattern, etc.

She also did another pelvic/cervical exam... ouch! Man, those are pretty uncomfortable. I am still only 1cm dilated and my cervix is still soft. She didn't really comment on effacement, so I'm not sure where I stand there. I'm guessing it's the same as last week -- not effaced. She said that, depending on my progression and blood sugar levels at my appointment next week (Feb. 7), we may be scheduling a February 11th or 12th induction. It was so nice to finally hear actual dates -- even if they are only tentative. And nice to know it will be prior to my due date! Of course, the date could also change if Blake decides to arrive before then, on her own. Time will tell!

I also asked my OB if it would be ok for my mom to be in the delivery room, along with Shawn. She said 'yes'. I'm thinking it would be nice for her to be there for moral support and encouragement, considering that she's been through it twice before herself. Also, I'm hoping that she'll be able to capture Blake's birth on video so we can go back and watch it later. I know I'll be very tired and overwhelmed when she arrives, so I'd like to be able to watch it later and have it on record for memory's sake. It's going to be the best moment of my life thus far! But, don't worry, she'll only video from a distance... nothing I wouldn't want to be seen by anyone else or on tv! ;-)

I still have 3 more days of work until I  become a stay-at-home mom! I must admit... I am a little sad about leaving. I never thought I would say that. I guess I am just sad about not seeing some of my friends everyday, and it's the end of another chapter in my life. But I'm excited about starting the new chapter, so I'll get over it fast! I also have appointments every day next week through Thursday. Monday, our homebuilder is sending over a plumber to check the pipes to the master bathtub. For some reason, we can't get any hot water to come out. It sure would be nice to take a nice, hot bath in our garden tub before I deliver! Tuesday, I have a followup appointment with my MFM for a final growth and development scan in Kingwood. Wednesday, we have a meet-and-greet with our pediatrician. Then, afterward, I plan on getting a pedicure -- which is my way of letting Blake know she can come at any time! And, Thursday, is my 38w5d OB appointment -- hopefully the last one! On that day, we will know if an induction will be scheduled for February 11th or 12th. So stay tuned! :-)

In the meantime, I am TERRIFIED of going into labor! Not knowing when and where it might happen is like a sneaky snake ready to strike at any unknown point in time. I have read that the majority of women's water breaks in bed. So, every time I lay down for bed at night, all I can do is notice every little twinge and slip swiftly into panic mode. Ugh, this control freak hates not knowing what this baby's agenda is! Part of me is scared of labor pain -- darn those nutty childbirth videos! (Note: I WILL be requesting an epidural!) Part of me is nervous that we will not make it to the hospital in time, even though we only live and work within 10-20 minutes of the hospital. How long will I be in labor? Will the induction slow the labor process down? Will the epidural wear off? So many worries! But, most importantly, I worry about Blake's safety and well-being. I was born with the cord wrapped around my neck and my heart rate dropped. They had to pull me out with forceps. Obviously, I turned out ok. But I don't want to have to worry about that with my own child. Another legitimate concern is that I am being treated for gestational diabetes. It can cause Blake's blood sugar to be low at birth, which is only a short-term concern. But it can cause her to have a seizure, if not monitored carefully. To me, there is just something about labor that makes me feel like I have no control. And I really, I have none. But the OB and nurses do. And, most importantly, God does. I have to keep reminding myself that I am in very good hands. In the next 2 weeks, I will have to figure out how to embrace the unknown and learn to let go. And, if you know me at all, that will be very hard to do! But, for my sanity's sake, it has to happen. God has seen me through the last 9 months, and I have been so blessed. I know He will see me through the next few weeks as well!