Baby Update

It seems as if little Griffin is being a bit high maintenance! Turns out I'm trying to go into preterm labor...possibly. I've been having a lot of contractions lately. I had an OB appt yesterday with Dr. B. He said the amount and intensity of contractions I am having is not normal at 28 weeks - I sort of knew that since I've done all this before. If I were only having 1-2 per hour that would be okay, but I'm having more like 5-6 per hour and apparently that's too many for now. He did a fetal fibronectin test (FFN test) yesterday and I learned this morning the results of that test were positive (meaning I'm at a higher risk of going into preterm labor). Dr. B is following protocol for a positive result, which means I went this morning for a steroid shot and I'll be getting another one tomorrow. The steroid speeds up the maturity of Griffin's lungs just in case I were to deliver early. In addition, I'm taking Brethine to reduce the contractions I'm having. In two weeks they will repeat the FFN test and see if the results have changed. Fortunately I haven't been required to be on bed rest, but I'm not allowed to lift anything heavy which includes Schaeffer. It'll be tough not lifting Little Big Man since he still needs help into his high chair, into his crib, and up and down steps.

The initial reason for yesterday's OB appt was to take a look at Griffin's kidney's again. He still has more fluid than normal and so we will continue to monitor that situation. Dr. B was very reassuring in explaining that sometimes babies get blockages for various reasons which would make fluid build up in his kidneys. However, he does not have so much fluid that he is at risk of having permanent kidney damage. Nevertheless, Dr. B wants to keep a close eye on things. We'll be visiting Dr. B in two weeks for another FFN test, and in four weeks for another ultrasound to check on kidneys.

BJ had plans this weekend to go to a men's conference in Woodstock, GA. Those plans got cancelled. I feel so bad for him. I know he was really looking forward to getting to take that trip with six of his buddies and hear Johnny Hunt speak at First Baptist Woodstock. But he decided it was best to stay home and take care of me, Griffin, Lily, and Schaeffer. He's such a good Daddy. Right now he and the kiddos are at Bounce USA having a fun time and giving me a little break.