I received a long-awaited phone call from my geneticist today.
As you already know, once they changed Peanut's diagnosis from omphalocele to gastroschisis, it didn't seem logical to have the amnio anymore. Since gastroschisis is usually an isolated problem, it just didn't seem worth the risk.
We decided instead to have a blood test that would give me the risk factors for several different genetic problems. The results came back today: the chance of this baby having a chromosomal problem was 1 in 10,000. The geneticist said everything looked great and we couldn't have asked for better results.
In addition, she told me that the tentative plan (this could change after our next ultrasound or two) is to induce at 36 weeks. Since the baby is already measuring small (and will probably continue to fall behind in measurements), the best thing they can do is induce early so they can pump the baby full of nutrients in the NICU. She said the baby will most likely grow MUCH more quickly outside of my womb.
In addition, the less exposure this baby (more specifically, the exposed bowel) has to the amniotic fluid, the better. Developing babies are covered with vernix caseosa, which is a thick, white, waxy substance that protects their skin. Peanut, however, has nothing protecting his/her exposed bowel, and delivering at 36 weeks could signifigantly reduce the ammount of intestinal damage, therefore reducing the risk of infection and speeding up the recovery process.
It sounds like I will be meeting Peanut sooner than I thought. He/she will most likely be born in the beginning of December, even though my due date is January 5th.
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ReplyDeleteI am so happy to hear how positive the doctor is! They normally tell you the worst so this is great news. I know that premies are no joking matter but look at it this way, not only are you meeting Peanut early but you'll get your tax deduction now for 2010 too!
ReplyDeleteI pray for you and Peanut daily and cannot wait to continue to hear the great news.
You're a great mother to your sweet baby already Jess! I'm sure your little baby is going to come out nice and healthy and recovery will be quick!
Thankyou so much! I wish I could tell you how much I appreciate the support and prayers.
ReplyDeleteI know, this new team of specialists seems great. They are honest and sure to tell you the worst case scenario, but also very hopeful and optimistic about the "best" case scenario. Let's just hope these doctors are right!