Today marks 24 weeks, that important threshold every woman with preterm premature rupture of membranes hopes to cross.
It’s been three weeks since my water ruptured at 21 weeks. I got my first steroid shot (of two, next one is tomorrow) that will help baby’s lungs mature so that, if I deliver him early (quite likely), his lungs will be in better shape to survive outside the womb.
I’m so thankful and fortunate to have made it this far, already beaten the odds statistically speaking. From this point on, every single day I can stay pregnant (until 34 weeks, when the risks of staying pregnant outweigh the benefits to baby) increases the odds that he’ll make it.
I am not in the hospital at the moment, although that could change at any second. Tomorrow I have my first appointment with the Perinatologist (also called Maternal/Fetal Medicine or MTM), and he could send me to the hospital for the duration. I’m really hoping he won’t, because I’m a good candidate for home management of this thing. I’m not having contractions, no cramping, no bleeding, no dilation, no signs of infection. Being in the hospital is very stressful for my entire family and emotionally much more challenging. At home, the days pass quickly by because I’m so busy. From my bed I can still homeschool the children, cuddle my 2 year old, read stories, and even fold laundry.
One of the benefits of hospital bed rest is simply this: compliance. But I’m sticking to my gestational incarceration (bed rest) at home like a champ. Being in the hospital also has risks, such as infection.
My husband and kids are treating me like a Queen, including bringing me my meals 3 times a day in bed. Speaking of eating, that just happens to be my favorite thing to do at the moment, because I am STARVING all the time now. My appetite took a definite jump a week ago, something I took as a good sign that baby is growing well. Many moms on bed rest lose their appetite, but I sure haven’t. I could eat 6 times a day.
Thank you to those of you who emailed me asking for updates, or who sent me links of pPROM success stories to read. Those are very encouraging to me.
My first goal was to make it to 24 weeks. My next goal is 28. At 28 weeks little man has a 90% chance of survival.
Dear Carrie,
First, let me say I’m so sorry this has happened to you. This is to remind us that HE is in charge and that no two children are the same and it certainly makes us look at our Faith.
I too, have been on bed rest and pregnant with small children in the home and homeschooling, so I understand a little of what you are going through. I believe that you are a very strong, calm and levelheaded woman and that you will get through this. I will be keeping you, your baby and family in my prayers. My children are a bit older now and are able to be on their own or for part of the time anyways so it wouldn’t be impossible for me to help you out. I said to myself years ago that someday I would like to help out someone on bed rest. I know you from years ago and I know you live in an Atlanta suburb so you probably aren’t too far away. I have helped out a lot of moms over the years in many different ways so if I could help you let me know. If you just need someone to talk to or help at home just let me know. I’m a very good organizer as well. I hope you get this e-mail, the last time I commented I don’t think it went on thru to you. Seriously, let me know if you need some help. I know how hard it is to lay in bed and know there’s so much to do around the house and for the children, etc. I will keep you all in my prayers. Toodles, Barbi
You and your family are in my prayers! I know the roller coaster you are on. I had two pProm babies and one born at 29 weeks. I only made it one week after my water broke so it looks like you are doing great! If I offer any help from my experience please let me know!
My comment o the homeschool post did not stick! But, so glad to hear the good news! Keeping you in my prayers!
Congratulations on another couple of weeks. I am a friend of your mom and have been praying for you and your family, especially this littlest one. With God’s help you will make it to 28 weeks and then 29 and then however far you need to go. Many hugs and good wishes and prayers.
I just wanted to tell you that i believe everything is going to be fine, stay positive and continue to pray and i will pray for you to.