So I am not intentionally trying to keep anyone out of the loop with the baby. I really didn't think it would generate so much speculation or concern to be honest! I do in fact have to deliver early and I am ECSTATIC about that news. I know most pregnant women are happy to deliver early, but I am especially happy because it means the end to being itchy and miserable. Of course I want the baby to be healthy, but even if I delivered today at 35 weeks, the chances of the baby having serious complications are pretty small. So I'll explain the condition and then you'll all be informed and not feel out of the loop. :)
Intrahepatic Cholestatis of Pregnancy (Obstetric Cholestatis): a rare liver condition that is brought on by pregnancy. Yes, I had it with Benjamin, but it was diagnosed super late and I was allowed to carry him to term (plus two days to be exact). The risks are somewhat nonexistent for me, but the risk for the baby could be fatal. This is obviously the reason why the doctors deliver as soon as the risk for respiratory distress diminishes, which is usually 37 weeks. If they suspect any other distress from the baby, they deliver immediately regardless of number of weeks gestation. The classic symptoms are severe itching of the palms and soles of the feet. It eventually spreads to itching all over and can be quite debilitating for some people. It was once believed that removing the gallbladder reduced the risk of recurrence with subsequent pregnancies, but this has obviously been debunked in my situation. (Although I would have had the surgery anyway because gallstones are horrible.)
This time around has been a little easier for me. Becoming a human pin cushion has not been fun, but that is the only way they can see how your liver is functioning. My liver enzymes are about ten times greater than normal and the bile salts are above normal, but under the limit in which distress from babies has been noted. I was prescribed medication that lowers or stunts bile acid accumulation (which is what makes you itch!), and my level is now considered non-emergent. They still want to deliver early because the bile acid level can triple in a matter of days. The condition is actually so rare that only two labs in the country are equipped to test the blood and it takes about three days to obtain results.
Okay, so that's it. The baby will be okay and I should be fine a couple of days after delivery. It will be odd having such a small baby though. :)
Contrary to the "John Said" intro....it is actually Kelley Grace you are hearing from :)
ReplyDeleteCarina was 4 pounds 13 ounces and was 4 weeks early...She was allowed to go home two days later and was perfectly healthy, although not a great eater. The FUNNIEST thing was that we would take her out when she was a few weeks old and people would REALLLLLLYYYYY give me a hard time about taking a "preemie" out so early. I delivered early because she had four cord wraps and was losing weight. I am confident this baby of yours will do great and be wonderful and healthy! (And I hope the best for your recovery too LOL)