I saw my peri this morning. The ultrasound went fine - both babies are about 1 week ahead, weight-wise. Christopher weighs 1 lb 11 oz and Kendall is 1 lb 12 oz. They both looked good.
Then, the doctor came in and took a look for himself.
He was focusing on my cervix and said, "Your cervix looks good - it's very long and closed". And then he looked at the u/s tech and said, "Can you tell what that is"?
He decided to do a transvaginal ultrasound and finally said, "I think you have a placenta previa but I can't tell what this other bulge is".
He ended up putting the speculum in and found vericose veins on my cervix, which I guess was the unusual bulge he was seeing. He didn't seem concerned about it after he identified it.
So, his official diagnosis is that Christopher's placenta is completely covering my cervix and I'm scared to death. The doctor said he thinks it's been there the whole time and they just didn't catch it at my 20-week u/s.
I haven't been put on bedrest (yet) but I am on "pelvic rest" - meaning no intercourse (like that was happening anyway) and no pelvic exams. I also need to restrict my activity and no heavy lifting.
I don't really know much about placenta previa and to be honest, it never even crossed my mind. I was so concerned about an incompetent cervix. Just from quickly searching on the web, I'm at risk for heavy (possibly life-threatening) bleeding during and after delivery and I'm pretty much assured that I will have a c-section.
If I notice any bleeding, I need to go to the hospital right away. If the bleeding doesn't stop, they'll deliver the babies no matter what age they are.
I asked if there was a chance that it could move up as my uterus expands and he acted like it was a slim possibility. Since it's completely covering my cervix, even if it moved, I don't think it would clear completely.
I also have to cancel our vacation - the doctor doesn't want me to be that far from home. Especially since we don't know their facilities and whether they can handle premature babies. I'll probably still take that week off and just stay home. Self-induced bed rest.
I feel so helpless. I know this isn't because of anything I did and I knew I'd have to be prepared for some complications. But, it doesn't take the fear away. I can't imagine losing the babies - not now.
I just have to keep praying that my cervix stays strong and doesn't start to dilate too early. And, that the previa doesn't start bleeding.
10 comments:
Hi, I read around and found the following article (http://www.pregnancytoday.com/articles/complications-cesareans/placenta-previa-low-lying-placenta-2128/)
I thought this paragraph helpful. I wish you buckets of peace, calm, , hugs and TLC.
Very often, however, placentas that cover or lie close to the cervix in the early weeks of pregnancy (also referred to as low-lying placentas) often move upward as the baby and the uterus grow. "A diagnosis of low-lying placenta is found in 5 to 6 percent of all early pregnancy ultrasounds," says Dr. Kurtzer. "Over 90 percent of these resolve by term just by continued growth of the uterus and stretching of the lower uterine segment."
Hi Suzanne,
I just read your post. I really hope that everything goes okay for you and the babies. I'm sure you are worried and I wish I could help you feel better. It's probably a good thing that you are staying closer to home/the doctor than going on a trip. Better to be safe about it.
Hugs...
I had placenta previa, but luckily mine cleared up by my 21-week u/s. I would take it easy and not try to worry too much. That's what I did, and I never had any bleeding. Just take it easy when you get home from work. My hubby wouldn't let me do anything except relax when I got home.
OMG! That is really scary! You will be fine though. Just take it easy and your little babies will be just fine!! :)
im sorry you recieved scary news at your appointment. im sure everything will be just fine.
i think a week of self induced bed rest will be great for you!
Suzanne,
I can only imagine your fear right now. I think it's normal, and especially when you weren't given much information.
I think first poster is right in that in many cases placenta previa resolve itself due to continued uterine growth. I pray this is what happens in your case.
It's good to forego the vacation to be closer to your comfort zone.
Don't feel helpless. You're helping by restricting strenuous activities, and resting (pelvic or otherwise) as much as you can.
Keep talking to little Christopher, and let him know mommy needs him to cooperate so she get the job done the way she wants :o).
Now is his chance to prove how much he's listening to his mama :o)
Wishing you all the best,
Anna
Suzanne, I am so sorry you're going through this - I can only imagine how scary it must be.
I just wanted to encourage you that at least you're at viability at this point ... and only getting closer to even better milestones each day. Also, it's so great that they've found this and they are starting to be cautious ... you are in good hands.
I know this isn't very comforting at all, but I know I'd be freaking out and would need a little external perspective during this type of situation.
I pray that your placenta marches on upward! And that you don't have to even think about risks of bleeding and required C-Section.
When is your next scan?
Big hugs sweety,
Polly
Hi Suzanne,
I've been reading your blog for a while now and was so happy to read about your beautiful twins. Hoping and praying that all goes well with them. I'm sure they will be fine. Rest up and take care!
Hi, I've been following your blog for a while, but haven't commented. I don't know if this helps as the medical degree I ordered off of the internet hasn't come yet, but my friend had placenta previa and it did move. I'm sorry this new stress is thrown into the mix :(
I'm so happy to read that the babies are doing so well and that your cervix is holding up!
Wishing you a healthy, uneventful rest of your pregnancy that continues until the babes are fully ready to meet the world.
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