36 Week Update (12/13/06)

We had our 36 week ultrasound yesterday and the good news is that our son is doing well. They estimate his weight to be 6 pounds 9 ounces, which is just fine. We also had another NST yesterday and his heartrate did exactly what it was supposed to do.

The bad news is that the ultrasound revealed that I am once again plagued with low amniotic fluid. My fluid level was at 6.5 cm, lower than it has ever been. Consequently, I have been placed on strict bedrest, which means no more school for me! I can only get up to use the restroom. Thankfully Friday is the last day of school before winter break, so I am only 3 sick days and I'll still have plenty for my maternity leave. I am surprisingly not stressed about this, mostly because I know that at this point he'd be just fine if he arrived today.
I'm sure that this bed rest thing will get old in about two days, but for now, here's to laying on the couch, drinking water, reading and watching daytime tv! Not to mention I have an excuse not to do dishes.

The doctors are hoping that strict bed rest and drinking a ton of fluids will help elevate my amniotic fluid levels. They want to keep him in through 37 weeks, if they can. I go back to the office for more NSTs (fetal monitoring) on Friday 12/15, Monday 12/18 and another fluid check on Tuesday or Wenesday of next week. If the levels have increased, they will keep him inside as long as he is not in distress. If my fluid levels haven't increased, or if he shows signs of distress, then we will need to discuss inducing.

I have a feeling this little guy will make his appearance before his due date (1/6). In fact, my prediction is that he will be here before Christmas. I hope not, but we'll see. Dad really wants the tax break for 2006 (which would be nice!), but I'd be happier if he came closer to New Years.