So sorry for the lack of updates. Things have been really hectic. In addition to preparing to give birth, I am also trying to wrap things up at work and prepare for Christmas. Whoever thought Christmas was a good time to have a baby was mistaken.
Both the baby and I are doing well. The baby continues to grow at record speed. We are having another ultrasound on Thursday (December 17th) to estimate the size. If the baby weighs over 4000 grams (8 pounds, 13 ounces), we are having a cesarean section on Friday (December 18th). Dr. Roussis tells us that with a baby this large, there is a risk that his or her shoulders could get caught in the birth canal (a disorder called shoulder dystocia). If this occurred, it could cause permanent damage or disability to the baby. Shoulder dystocia is more common in infants weighing more than 4000 grams and in babies born to diabetic mothers. The risk to me, with a cesarean section, is minimal. So if the baby is at risk, we have opted to do whatever we need to do to lessen the risk to the baby. We will know more after the ultrasound on Thursday. Of course, we could go into labor between now and then, but I doubt it. This baby seems very content, and I do not think he or she has any plans to leave anytime soon.
The swelling in my feet and ankles has gotten a little worse. My blood pressure has been up a little from my norm this last week, but Dr. Roussis is not overly concerned. I am monitoring my blood pressure 3 times per day at work. So far so good. Speaking of work, tomorrow is my last day! Yay! I have 3 months off for maternity leave and will go back part-time in April. Paul has recently had some promising leads at Oak Ridge National Lab, where he has been doing his internship, and we are hopeful to stay in Knoxville.
I will make a point to update the blog on Thursday after we have the ultrasound. That way everyone will know if the baby will be born on Friday or in his or her own time. We appreciate everyone's prayers and support.
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