Happenings Lately

First and foremost, I'd like to say thank you.  Thank you to each and every one of you for being so supportive over the past few months.  Not only with my pregnancy and the whole mass debacle, but also with my breastfeeding post.  You remind me everyday of exactly why I love blogging and I sincerely thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for all of your kind words of support and encouragement.

***

My OB called me on Friday with some amazing post-surgery news:

MY BIOPSY WAS NEGATIVE!!

 :::does happy dance:::

I feel like I can finally put this mass thing behind us.  She said they were just two highly complex nabothian cysts and we don't have to worry about them for a single second longer.  Considering that I've been worried about them since they found the stupid things in May, I will gladly not give them another thought!

***

Reid is 12 weeks old today, which means that I'm officially back to work.  BOOOOO.  

{That was a tough click of the mouse.} 

 

However, I feel very {very} lucky to have spent the last 12 weeks with my new {and extremely handsome and lovable} little man. This is the longest maternity leave I've ever had {I had 7 weeks with Carter and 8 weeks with Brynn} and it still wasn't long enough.  {They never are!} But alas, I'm back to work and, although I will miss my kiddos immensely, I'm excited to be back. 

I'm also very lucky to have a bit of a transition phase back into working again.  I'm able to work from home 3 days/week in December, while being in the office for 2 days/week.  We also have the week off between Christmas and New Year's Day, so I will literally be in the office a total of 6 days in December. 

And, if I'm being completely honest, 4 of those 6 days are Christmas parties.  Ahem.

I picked a good month to return to work.

{Today's handsome coworker.  He's a little bossy.}

***

We got our Christmas tree this weekend! I'm so excited =)  More to come on this, but let me just tell you.... it's perfect.

 

Told ya.

***

I'm going to knock on wood as I say this, but Reid is officially sleeping through the night.  

And not the "sleeping through the night" that doctors tell you about {aka 5-6 straight hours of consistent sleep}... I'm talking for real sleeping through the night.  The kind parents tell you about {aka sleeping until it's time to wake up for the day.}

For the past 2 weeks or so, Mr. Man has been going to bed around 8:30 or 9pm and sleeping all the way until 6 or 7am.  This morning, he slept until almost 8am!

 Thank you my sweet, sweet boy.

***

And, lastly, a few posts I have coming up...

• Adventures in Christmas tree shopping 
• This year's holiday card design
• My 2012 Holiday Shopping Guide
• And, finally, my thoughts on being team green {I want to get into this a little more.}

Happy Monday!

Surgery Update

I just wanted to let you guys know that my cervical mass surgery was moved up a week to this Monday at 8am {as opposed to next Monday at 2pm.} My OB called me and said she had a cancellation and I quickly snagged the spot.  I'm so thankful that I don't have to delay this another week, as I so desperately just want to get this over with.
 
Also?  It's actually helping me feel less nervous because of Thanksgiving.  I'm kinda looking past the surgery to that wonderful day where I get to spend the entire day with the people I love most in this world. I'm just focusing on that. Yep.

Oh, and I'm totally using this as an excuse to decorate my house for Christmas this weekend. Ahem.

So if you can spare any good thoughts on Monday, I sure could use them!

Mass Update

Or should I say masses update. Because there are actually two of them.

I had an ultrasound done on Monday {my first u/s last week was canceled due to the hurricane} and my OB called me yesterday with the results.  She said that there are actually TWO complex cystic masses on the posterior of my cervix.  Not just one, as previously suspected during multiple ultrasounds and MRI's done throughout my pregnancy.  My doctor explained that there were likely two the whole time, but the pregnancy actually made it harder for them to see it.

The good news is that the main mass is "about the same size" so it really hasn't grown.  She said she's 99.9% sure that these are just two complex nabothian cysts but, just like throughout my pregnancy, they really can't rule out anything at this point.  The cysts are just odd enough that they don't want to miss something big.

So... to the surgical center I go for a hysteroscopy where my doctor will drain and remove the cysts and conduct a biopsy.  This will be an out-patient procedure, but I will have to be put under for it. I've never been put under for anything, so I'm really nervous about it {as well as getting the results back from this procedure, obviously.} 

It makes me feel A MILLION times better that my OB will be doing the surgery herself, as she delivered all three of my babies and I just ADORE her. I'm finding a lot of comfort in that. This procedure will also have no affect on fertility in the future {just in case} which is good news as well.

I heard from the scheduling office about an hour ago and it looks like my procedure will take place in the afternoon of November 26th.  While I had hoped to get this taken care of before Thanksgiving, it just doesn't look like that's going to happen at this point.  I was also hoping for a morning appointment, but there's nothing open at that time either.  So it should be fun sitting around all day nervously awaiting my first surgery ever, while also not being able to eat a thing.  WOO HOO! 

But alas, at least I'm getting this taken care of and I have a doctor conducting the procedure that I whole-heartily trust. And what's more important than that, right?

So, yeah.  I'm nervous, but just trying to stay positive and hope for the best.  It's really all I can do...

How about a picture?

Stephanie Glover Photography

Love them to pieces.

37 Weeks and Full Term!

 

Tank & Shorts: Old Navy

You guys? I am done.  D-O-N-E.

I've seriously hit a wall and have never felt this awful with any of my pregnancies.  Ever. I am cramping/contracting almost constantly {nothing timeable, however.}  I had a contraction so awful yesterday that I almost fell to the floor.  It was lovely.

I don't know what happened.  I was "fine" at this point with my other two.  Maybe because it's my third?  My body just isn't handling it as well.  I don't know.  Perhaps, the belleh has officially retired and just stopped trying as hard to hold up.  Maybe it's chasing after two toddlers.  Or having them crawl all over me. Or lifting them up. {Man, I make big babies.}

Whatever the reason, I am really struggling now.  I feel like I need to hold the bottom of my belly to even walk across the room {let alone walk 5 blocks to my favorite lunch spot, which is totally worth it, ifyoumustknow.}  Speaking of lunch... I can not keep myself full these days either.  I feel like a bottomless pit.  It's sad, really.  I think this baby is just taking everything that I have: food, energy, will power.

Okay, I'm going to stop complaining now.  I'm just trying to be real here. Very real.

So, 37 weeks.  Full term.  I am so happy to be here.  While I'd love to make it to my "39 week/ September 10th / 2 weeks from today" induction {and I'm 99% sure that I will} this baby is free to come at any time now.  I feel I've done my job here.  My last remaining goal is to make it to September 1st, which is this Saturday {and 1 day shy of 38 weeks.}  If I can make it to that point, I'd be extremely happy.  If not? Then September 10th here I come!

So I have two appointment updates to share with you:

(1)  I had a growth ultrasound on Tuesday at 36w2d which showed the baby weighing in at over 7.5lbs.  My BPP was perfect, as were my fluid levels, etc.  Unfortunately, they could not get a measurement of the cervical mass at all. The baby's head was so far down that it was impossible to even see the mass.  At this point, there's really nothing we can do anyway, so we're just going to wait until postpartum to deal with that situation.  While that makes me a little nervous, it's also nice to just focus on the baby. :)

(2) I had my 36w5d OB appt on Friday.  Here were the highlights:

• 4cm dilated and 50% effaced 
• Belly measuring over 4 weeks ahead now 
• GBS Positive {Booo! I was positive with Carter and negative with Brynn}
• The cervical mass will be checked via ultrasound at my 6w postpartum appt and we'll decide on a treatment plan at that time 
• My OB felt around my belly and said "you know how growth ultrasounds can be +/- a pound? Yours is most definitely +" Awesome. She's been 100% correct with both Brynn and Carter's birth sizes, so I tend to trust what she says.  We'll see.
• Got my induction orders for the hospital!! September 10th at 6am. SQUEEEE! 

I'd say it's officially time to start getting ready for this kiddo.

Pregnancy: 37 weeks

Weight Gain: 28 pounds

Weeks until September 10th Induction:  2 weeks from today!

Sleep: Contracting/cramping almost constantly.  Which, of course, means lots of tossing and turning.

Gender: We're team green, so we'll find out in September!

Names: Reid Joseph or Emerson Mae {see the name post here!}

Feeling: Swollen.

Health:  My BP was slightly elevated at my last appt.  We'll just watch it.

Movement: Every time the baby moves I want to poke my eye out.  But then, of course, when there is little movement, I get super nervous and poke the baby to move.  So it's a win-win.

Belly: Measuring over 4 weeks ahead right now, linea negra is slowly getting darker, and my belly button has been out for awhile. For comparison, here's my 37 week belly shot with Brynn!

Next Appointment: OB Appointment: Thursday, August 30th at 37w4d.  Biophysical Profile: Friday, August 31st at 37w5d.  Only 2 more ultrasounds to go!  Let's hope we make it with no slip-ups, eh? 

33 weeks!

Shirt & Shorts: Motherhood

33 weeks.  Whoa.  I actually thought I was turning 32 weeks, so I'm just way off.  This entire pregnancy is clearly moving faster than I can even comprehend.

Not too many updates this week.  I had my weekly Biophysical Profile on Friday morning and the babe passed in literally 3 minutes.  He/she is doing really well in there :)  No mass update... they only check for growth/blood flow at my growth ultrasounds and I don't think I have another one of those for a few weeks.  I'm rather enjoying the break, actually. {And by "break" I clearly mean that I have a week or two off from seeing it. But it's nice not have it all up in my face for a bit :}

Because of BlogHer this Wednesday- Sunday, I had to reschedule all of my weekly Friday high risk appointments for different times.  Unfortunately, they were mostly booked solid on Wednesday {right before I leave} so I only have a BPP this week instead of my bi-weekly OB appt as well.  I talked to my doc though, and she was fine with that, because the babe is still being checked :)  I'll then go see her next week {on my birthday, fun!} before I head out to OBX for 7 days... woo hoo!! More to come on this :)

As far as my upcoming trip to BlogHer in New York City, I'm a tad nervous {but not enough to stop me from going... clearly.}  Although my schedule is jam-packed the entire 5 days, I have to remember to take lots of breaks and make sure I'm not running around the entire city like an 8 month pregnant crazy person {don't worry honey... I'll be fine! <- Bob's worried.}  

Oh, but also?  I had my roomies brush up on their L&D skillz.  You know, just in case. {I kid, honey.  Sort of.}

Pregnancy: 33 weeks

Weight Gain: 22 pounds

Weeks until September 10th Induction:  6! <- ahhhhhh!

Sleep: I have good nights and bad!  Hoping to get some solid sleep this week at BlogHer!

Gender: We're team green, so we'll find out in September!

Names: Reid Joseph or Emerson Mae {see the name post here!}

Feeling: Excited!  Looking forward to spending time with some good friends :)

Health:  My BP has been fine this week, from what I can tell.  My swelling is getting bad, so I'll have to really watch it in NYC... I have cute shoes to fit into, damn it!

Movement: Feeling him/her constantly.  I love it!

Belly: Measuring just about 3 weeks ahead right now, have the start of a very light linea negra, and my belly button has been out for awhile.

For comparison, here's my 33 week belly shot with Brynn! {<- from my maternity session with her!!}

Next Appointment: Biophysical Profile: this Wednesday, August 1st at 33w3d. 

32 weeks and lots to show & tell!

That right there?  Is a photo from my maternity session with Steph on Saturday.  To say that I adore it would be the understatement of the century.

We had so much fun at the session and lucked out with perfect weather as well {not as hot/humid as it has been!}  I got them all back already {isn't she good?} and I will post them all {sorry, I can't choose just a few to show... I must show you all the pictures} tomorrow night or Wednesday.

Want another one to hold you over until then?  Okay fine.

That one actually made me cry.

Okay, that's all for now.  Stay tuned!

So I had a few appointments on Friday... one with my OB and then a BPP and growth ultrasound at MFM right after. Let's start with my OB appt, shall we?

She told me that she ran into the oncologist in L&D last week and he updated her in person about my appointment.  She said he was all "Hey, I just met with a patient of yours!" and she said "Yep, I know exactly who you're talking about." :)  I guess it's good to know that they know my case without looking me up, right?

Anyway, my OB said that after talking to him in person, she's even more confident that this is nothing to worry about.  So confident, in fact, that she went ahead and scheduled my 39 week (!!!) induction (!!!) for September 10th. {No 36 week c-section for this mama, thankyouverymuch.}

Also?  That is officially SEVEN WEEKS from TODAY.

:::does happy dance:::

Obviously, I'm fully aware that things can change in an instant and nothing is guaranteed here, but OMG.  This is the best news I've heard since this mass debacle began.  We'll still continue to watch it on a weekly or bi-weekly basis, but if all goes well, 9.10.12 could very well be this baby's birthday.  SQUEE!

After my OB appt, I headed over to MFM for my BPP and growth ultrasound.  The best news, besides the fact that this baby is perfect and could pass a BPP in its sleep {no, really}, is that the mass has not grown at all!  They checked blood flow as well and, to my untrained eye, it did appear to have some, but the tech said she was just picking up blood vessels around the mass itself.  The doc {but not my doc, boo} came in after my appt to confirm that.  Great news all around!

Oh, and in case you were wondering... the babe measured between 4.5 and 5lbs at 31w5d.  Completely normal, for my monster babies {about 85th percentile at this point.}  This is usually the point in which my babe's start breaking away to the upper 90th percentile so I'm eager to see how much he/she grows over the next few weeks.  But for some reason, I have a strange feeling that this will be my smallest baby.  Who knows... maybe we won't even break 9lbs at 39w.  We'll see, ha!

Just a reminder:
Carter- 9lbs 5oz at 38w0d
Brynn- 9lbs 3oz at 39w0d

Perhaps this babe will continue the downward trend and weigh in at 9lbs 1oz ;)

Pregnancy: 32 weeks

Weight Gain: 22 pounds

Sleep: Pregsomnia has kicked in in full force.  Blah.

Gender: We're team green, so we'll find out in September!

Names: Reid Joseph or Emerson Mae {see the name post here!}

Feeling: Wonderful this week!

Health:  My BP was a little high on Friday, but nothing to be overly concerned about yet. This is usually the point in my pregnancy when it starts creeping up however.  Let's hope it stays in check a little longer {um, like until 39 weeks.}

Movement: Feeling him/her constantly.  I love it!

Belly: Measuring just about 3 weeks ahead right now, have the start of a very light linea negra, and my belly button has been out for awhile.  Here's my standard belly shot {after Kacy's surprise baby shower yesterday!!!}...

For comparison, here's my 32 week belly shot with Brynn!

Next Appointment: Biophysical Profile: this Friday, July 27th at 32w5d. 

 

31 weeks and oncology update...

Dress:Old Navy | Cardigan: The Limited | Belt: Target

Whew... I think these weeks are flying by faster and faster, aren't they!?!  I'm sure they'll start slowing down soon when I have to literally hold my belly up in order to walk anywhere ;)

Okay so, I had two appointments on Friday.  The first was the appointment with the oncologist that stemmed from my MRI results. The doctor was awesome and he was so reassuring and comforting.  I presume someone in his position would need to be exactly that, however.

After reviewing my two ultrasounds and my MRI results, he told me that the mass is something he's never seen before {which is what all the docs are saying, hence my lack of diagnosis} and that right now it doesn't appear to be cancerous {no blood flow, no lynph nodes, etc.} but the only way to know with complete accuracy is to biopsy.  He also said that, just because it doesn't show malignant symptoms at the moment, doesn't necessarily mean that it can't develop them. 

As far as a diagnosis, we still have none {as expected.} He said it could be anything from "a highly complex nabothian cyst" to some rare thing I probably couldn't even pronounce, let alone spell for you here, to performing a "complete hysterectomy post baby" {I think that was the most rare and extreme option and something I wouldn't even consider without multiple opinions, obviously.}

He did an exam and could feel the mass {ouch!} and said that it was soft {another good sign, as malignant tumors are hard} and that my cervix felt soft as well.  He said he would defer to my OB and high-risk doc at MFM regarding a birth plan, but he's concerned that the mass will affect my cervix's ability to dilate/efface.  However, if my cervix remains soft and dilates on it's own, they are all good signs that I'd be able to proceed with a vaginal delivery.  Only time will tell.

Currently, our plan of action is to just wait and watch, basically.  He's ordering growth ultrasounds every two weeks from here on out to monitor growth and blood flow {and of course, check on the growth of the baby as well!} He mentioned also doing another MRI around 36 weeks, which I told him just wasn't happening. {Especially after he sat there and told me that an ultrasound was the best way to monitor blood flow.}

So yeah. My BPPs will continue on a weekly basis with growth ultrasounds on even weeks {32, 34 and 36.} He's calling both my OB and my high risk doc to come up with a plan that all 4 of us can agree on and I hope to speak with my OB about that this Friday at my bi-weekly appt with her. 

Again, as far as delivery, he said it's much too early to tell. They prob won't decide until my growth u/s at 36w and based on size/growth/position of the mass, they'll make a decision at that time. He said he can't say right now weather or not I'd have to have a c/s {which is the least of my worries at this point, though I'll push for a vaginal birth, if possible.} I just want a healthy baby and mama at the end of all this!

I'm feeling okay about the appointment. I didn't really expect any answers. I figured they'd just monitor it and then test it post baby which is basically the plan right now unless it grows and/or develops blood flow. 

After meeting with the oncologist, I headed over for my weekly BPP.  The babe is still perfect and passed with flying colors again after just a few minutes.  We got a few good pics of him/her eating it's little toes, sucking it's thumb and then letting out a big yawn {which was the most adorable thing ever.}  Being able to see the babe, just helped me leave the hospital feeling comforted.  He/she is perfectly fine in there and that's what I'm focusing on the most. 

And with that, I must also add that I had a moment yesterday.  I looked down at my belly and got excited.  I mean really excited.  I can't wait to meet this baby.  Find out who this little person is in there.  See who he/she will look like.  Hold them.  Kiss them.  Love them

I just can't wait.

Pregnancy: 31 weeks

Weight Gain: 20 pounds

Sleep: Starting to get really uncomfortable now.  BH contractions are getting stronger and I find myself waking up because of them {and then, of course, getting up to go to the bathroom.  Ya know, because I'm already up.}

Gender: We're team green, so we'll find out in September!

Names: Reid Joseph or Emerson Mae {see the name post here!}

Feeling: Staying positive. :)

Health:  BP is still fine and my swelling doesn't seem to be to bad yet.  Hoping every thing stays in check as long as possible!

Movement: Feeling him/her constantly.  I love it!

Belly: Measuring about 2-3 weeks ahead right now, have the start of a very light linea negra, and my belly button has been out for awhile.  For comparison, here's my 31 week belly shot with Brynn!

Next Appointment: OB appointment, Biophysical Profile & Growth Ultrasound: this Friday, July 20th at 31w5d.  Eager to talk to my doc about a plan and see how big the babe is!  Also, want to see if the mass has grown at all since my MRI.

On to the oncologist...

Sigh.

So, yesterday morning I finally heard from my high risk doctor at MFM regarding my MRI report.  She actually read the report to me which was short and to the point.  Basically, here's what it said:

- Mass seen on patient
- Similar in size to ultrasound measurements {my 2 ultrasounds and MRI were all over a 2 week period}
- Doesn't appear to have any vascular flow and/or lymph nodes.
- There is no "clinical find"
- Diagnosis: "Non-specific mass on posterior of cervix"

Yeah, that's it.  No diagnosis.  While it is excellent news that there doesn't appear to be any vascular flow and/or lymph nodes and the mass is basically the same size as it was when they found it two weeks ago... still not a single person knows what it is.

My high-risk doc said that she and my OB just think it's a "nabothian cyst" {<-- frankly, I agree.  Disclaimer: I earned my MD from Grey's Anatomy.} They both said {at separate times} that this is something they see on a daily basis and it's nothing to worry about at ALL.

However.

They're still not comfortable giving me that diagnosis because it's "just unusual enough that they don't want to miss something."

So now?  An oncology consult.  Yep.  Tomorrow morning at 9:15am.

My high risk doctor is hoping that the oncologist will simply look at the MRI and say "it's not cancer" and we can all move on.  But I'm 100% sure that he won't say that without doing a biopsy {I mean, who would say it's not cancer without being absolutely sure of it?  And the only way to be sure is to biopsy.} I'll just go in expecting the worst.

So yeah... it looks like we're headed for option #2 that I discussed in my original mass post.  My docs will likely want to deliver early {36w}, in order to biopsy {again, they can't biopsy while I'm still PG.}

Because the babe is just fine in there, this is obviously not okay with me.

I have an appt with my OB next week {which is good, because she'll have the MRI and Oncology reports by then} and I guess we'll formalize a birth plan at that time.  But you better believe I will fight to deliver after 38 weeks {at the earliest!} as long as both the babe and myself are still fine. My OB is wonderful, so I think she'll be understanding/supportive of my wishes. We shall see.

And with that... the babe is still perfect.  Even the MRI showed that :)

I'm just going to stay positive from here on out, as all signs point too "it's absolutely nothing."  I'm not worrying about this mass thing not a second longer.  I'll meet with the oncologist and that's basically all I'm doing until this baby is born.  No more tests.  No more poking, prodding, or cooking me from the inside out in an MRI machine.  I'm done.  I'll just expect the oncologist to say he wants to biopsy and go from there. 

In a way, I'm glad they're taking all this extra precaution.  I'll just worry about it post baby now and make sure that I'm one healthy mama for my THREE little pumpkins.

And I'll leave you with this... a bit of our group convo regarding my MRI results yesterday.  My sisters think they're so funny, right!?! {I do think they're funny :}

"Ding" is my nickname, justsoyouknow.

As always, thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers.  You guys are the best.  For real.

30 weeks!

Shirt & Shorts: Motherhood

I look so ginormous next to the Three Little Pigs house, right?  We went to Storybook Land yesterday and the kids had a blast.  More on that later though ;)

Okay, so I don't even really know where to start with this update.  I guess I'll just start with my appointment on Friday and go from there...

Well my OB is awesome, it's official. Friday was the first time I saw her since this whole mass thing began {which was only TWO WEEKS ago but feels much longer!}  She came in to the room and gave me a big hug! I adore her. I knew she would make me feel better, and that's exactly what she did.

After going over a few "routine" things {my BP was still "fine," she's not making me take the 3 hour GTT because my fluid levels have been in the normal range the past two ultrasounds, and the fact that I actually lost weight this week... hmm, I wonder why?} she then went over basically the two possibilities for this mass and MRI situation.

She said that (1) it could be absolutely nothing. Which is exactly what she thinks it is. Just a "benign variant tumor or cyst" and they wouldn't do a thing right now or even after delivery. It would basically just go away on its own {or not... it's just kinda... there.} I could still have a vaginal delivery and they wouldn't do anything differently. <-- Um, sign me up for that.

Or (2) we could get the MRI results and still not know what this mass thing is and, in that case, they'd want to do a biopsy.

Awesome.

With option #2: They can't do a biopsy while I'm still pregnant. So my OB said that her and my high-risk doc at MFM would come up with a plan to possibly deliver the baby early {36ish weeks} in order to biopsy.

Yeah, I am NOT okay with that.

If they don't know what it is and both the baby and myself are fine, I am not risking an early delivery for this stupid mass. Nope. I won't do it. I'm not going to have a baby in the NICU with underdeveloped lungs {and whatever else can go wrong} and this turn out to be nothing at all. So I told my doc that I don't want to deliver before 38 weeks if it's not absolutely 100% necessary. She was fine with that, but said let's just see how the MRI goes and take it from there. She's hoping we're worrying about absolutely nothing at all and she doesn't want to get ahead of ourselves or cause undue stress {too late.}

So now on to this morning. 

The MRI was possibly the worst thing I've experienced in my entire life.  Not really, but it was bad.  Very, very bad.

First, ummmmm, how did I not know that an MRI can mess with balance and motion sickness!?!  I felt like I was going to throw up everywhere.  Add to the fact that it was 5,000 degrees {<-- the temp in the room gets higher every time I tell this story.  Justsoyouknow.} and I officially felt like I was going to die.  Well, maybe not die, but pass out.

It was terrible.

And the babe.  The poor babe.  He/she was jumping around my belly like crazy.  And I was trying my best not to move while I was cooking from the inside out. 

Let's just say I'm just glad it's over.

While counting out the last ten minutes {I'm not kidding} I officially decided that I'm not doing any more tests on this mass until after this baby is born.  I feel terrible putting the babe through this and then on top of all this stress {for hopefully nothing at all}... I just can't do it any more.  Nope.  I'm done.

So yeah.  Now we wait.  The hospital said it would take 2 days to get the report to my MFM doc, but she has direct access to the reporting system at the hospital, so I'll call later today and see if she has any news for me.  If not, hopefully I hear from someone tomorrow.  We'll see.

I'll keep you guys posted.

And with that, I want to add that the babe is still perfect and passed his/her BPP with flying colors again on Friday.  My sweet little over achiever.

Pregnancy: 30 weeks <-- how is that even possible?

Weight Gain: 20 pounds

Sleep: I've been sleeping rather well despite all this mess going on.  We're staying very busy though!  Last night, while watching a movie and cuddling with Carter, he yelled at me for snoring in his ear.  Oops ;)

Gender: We're team green, so we'll find out in September!

Names: Reid Joseph or Emerson Mae {see the name post here!}

Feeling: Staying positive. :)

Health:  BP was fine at my last appt, which I was super happy about.  My swelling is still fairly in check even though it was 105 on Saturday. So lovely.  If we can get this mass thing under control, my health would be fabulous, I think!

Movement: Feeling him/her constantly.  I love it!

Belly: Measuring about 2-3 weeks ahead right now, still no linea negra and my belly button has been out for awhile. Here's my standard belly shot... {and I got a new iPhone case!}

 

For comparison, here's my 30 week belly shot with Brynn!

Next Appointment: Biophysical Profile: this Friday, July 13th at 30w5d.

Mass Update

So yesterday afternoon the MFM doctor called with the official hospital report.  I was a little shocked, so I wanted to take the night to sleep on it first before writing about it here.

The report was unsettling.  

When she received it, she immediately called my official OB {who I adore, and trust} and they both came up with a plan.

The hospital report was, again, inconclusive.  The mass really could be a multitude of things.  Vanishing Twin Syndrome, a cyst with an air pocket, a cyst filled with dried blood. All things we've discussed before.  Both of my doctors are sure it's just a "benign variant" tumor that is located in my uterus on the posterior of my cervix.  But again, no one can give me an official diagnosis. 

But here's the kicker.

Because they don't know what it is, they're referring me for an MRI to be done "as soon as possible" to {and are you ready for this?} rule out cancer.

Huh?  Are you kidding me with this?

Please don't talk about cancer and Oncologists to an almost 30 week pregnant woman.  There's sure to be some problems.

:::breaths into paper bag:::

Okay, let's focus on the positives, shall we... because if not, I may go completely insane.

• The mass is not IN my cervix.
• It's relatively small- a little bigger than a quarter.
• It did not grow at all in the week between my initial u/s at MFM and my follow-up u/s at the hospital.
• It doesn't seem to have any vascular flow.

The last point really is the key.  Without vascular flow, it's highly unlikely that it would be a malignant tumor.  I've now had two ultrasounds done on this mass, and both my MFM doc, my OB, and several radiologists at the hospital have evaluated the results and said that it does not have any blood flow.  Awesome.

I know that this "hey, let's just rule out cancer" thing is basically just a CYA. And again, it's just to rule it out.  But, it's still scary.  And stressful.  And something that no one ever wants to be told, especially someone carrying a baby.

Because it's not just me here.  It's the sweet babe too.

So now we wait.  We wait for the doc to call back with my MRI appointment at the hospital.  I'm hoping to get in this week sometime, but with the holiday, that may pose a problem.  I already have two appointments on Friday {BPP and OB} so it would be great to get it all done then.  I'm really hoping this doesn't drag in to next week, but I'll keep you guys posted either way.

ETA: The MRI is now scheduled for Monday morning, July 9th at 8am.  And the nurse said even that was difficult to get because they were actually booked all next week as well.  But she was persistent and the hospital, thankfully, fit me in.  I should get the results Monday afternoon or Tuesday morning.

And with that, let me just say that the babe is still perfect.  Perfect in every way possible.  He/she is kicking away in there and letting mama know that everything will be just fine.

So I'll leave you with this... my sweet babe.

29 Weeks

Dress: Gap | Cardigan: Express

First, I would like to thank you for all of your sweet comments on my high risk post last week.  I really do think everything will turn out perfectly fine, but it sure means a lot to have your amazing support.  You guys are awesome.

So, I had the first of my weekly Biophysical Profile {BPP} appointments on Friday morning. Going in, I really had no idea what to expect, but we had a very sweet tech who explained each thing she was looking for, as well as the associated point system that baby earned for completing each task {2 points each for breathing, non-stress test, movement, muscle tone and fluid levels.} This appointment usually lasts a minimum of 30 minutes to allow for baby to earn all of his/her points.

I have two words for you.

Over. Achiever.

We were in and out of there in 10 minutes. The babe had no problem completing any of the tasks and earned an A+ from the tech :)

Some other good news that came out of this appointment is that my fluid levels were completely normal {as opposed to the high levels I had last week.}  Also, the babe was head down again, which is awesome.  But he/she seems to flip around before each appointment so I'm betting this Friday they'll be breech again {just like 2 weeks ago ;}.  

So after my BPP, we headed over to the hospital for a follow-up ultrasound for the mass/cyst thing.  To clarify, it's actually a mass inside a cyst, so that's lovely.   

As of right now, we still don't really have any answers… the hospital GYN docs were just as confused as the MFM docs, so that's always reassuring ;)

The good news is that it still has no blood flow to it and we found out that it's currently not blocking my cervix, so a vaginal delivery is still safe {for now.}  YAY!  The hospital is writing up a report and I should hear back from MFM sometime today {hopefully} to get some answers.

Again, they're pretty dumbfounded {as are we} but some of the things they mentioned to us are {and are you ready for this?} a twin that never developed and is just becoming present on the u/s now {it may have been behind the baby, etc}.  This option just makes me really sad. :(  It was the first option that both the MFM doc and the hospital GYN gave, however.  The other possibility is a cyst with a mass inside that is a calcification, dried blood and/or an air pocket. <- hoping for that option.

But again, they really have NO IDEA.  They said they've never seen anything like it.  Awesome. 

Either way, the baby is perfect.  I'm feeling great.  It's not causing either of us any problems.  I have no pain associated with it and, as of now, I am still able to have a vaginal delivery.

I'm a happy mama.

Pregnancy: 29 weeks

Weight Gain: 21 pounds

Sleep: I have good nights and bad nights.  Last night was a bad night because Carter was sick all day yesterday {103 fever and throwing up} so we kept him with us so that we could continuously check his temp and make sure he didn't throw up in his sleep.  Poor baby :( So I basically slept with one eye {and one ear} open all night.

Gender: We're team green, so we'll find out in September!

Names: Reid Joseph or Emerson Mae {see the name post here!}

Feeling: I'm feeling pretty good despite the circumstances.  Staying positive. :)

Health:  Swelling has started getting bad.  I've also been having bad headaches, dizziness, nauseousness, seeing stars, etc.  Blah.  All things associated with high BP.  My next OB appt is this Friday so I'm hoping that it's still at an appropriate level.

Movement: This is one crazy baby!  I love it :)

Belly: Measuring over 3 weeks ahead right now, still no linea negra and my belly button has been out for awhile. And for comparison, here's my 29 week {BARE} belly shot with Brynn!

Next Appointment: Biophysical Profile & bi-weekly OB appointment: this Friday, July 6th at 29w5d. I can't wait to actually talk to my doc about all this BPP, high risk, mass/cyst, possible GD stuff that has happened since my appt 2 weeks ago!

28 weeks and high risk.

Dress: Kohl's {non maternity}

Oh, where do I even start?  I feel like so much has happened this past week.  It's crazy how everything can change in just one appointment.

Friday was an interesting day.  I went in for my routine OB appointment and my second Glucose Tolerance Test (GTT). I passed my first GTT at 11 weeks with no problem {I take two because I make monster babies.}  Anyway, the test itself was fine and my appointment was okay as well.  I found out that I'm now up 21 pounds at 28 weeks, which I guess isn't terrible.  I'm on track to gain about 35 pounds, which is exactly where I was when I had Carter.  With Brynn I only gained 22 pounds total, but I also started at a heavier weight, so I'm sure that had something to do with it.

My BP was great and the baby's heartbeat sounded perfect at 135 {exactly where Brynn's heartbeat always was...}  And that's kinda where the "routine" appointment ends and things start going astray.

First, my belly is now measuring more than 3 weeks ahead.  Again, this is somewhat typical for me and when the belleh starts to really break off from the norm.  I'm sure I'm on my way to 6 weeks ahead like I was with Brynn.  This is expected, but still a minor concern.

After my 28w OB appt, I headed over to Maternal Fetal Medicine for my monthly ultrasound.  Again, I'm being monitored every 4 weeks due to pre-e and large babies in my past two pregnancies.  I was totally expecting the same routine ultrasound and was concentrating more on where we'd be going to lunch afterwards. {What? Don't judge.}

But boy was I thrown a curve ball.

Well, most importantly, the baby is perfect.  Perfect.  Just look at him/her...

I mean... I know I'm bias and all, but that is one cute baby ;) I can't wait to nom on those cheeks!

The ultrasound tech started with some standard measurements on me first, before moving to the baby.  She checked my cervix, tubes, ovaries, etc.  The works.  I noticed her spending a lot of time taking pictures of my cervix, but I didn't ask questions.  She moved on to fluid levels, blood flow to the baby and then the growth scan.  When she was finished, she said, and I quote...

"So, I found a mass above your cervix and I want the doctor to do her own ultrasound to figure out what it is."

Huh?

There was no "mass" during my ultrasound 4 weeks ago.

When the doctor finally arrived, she sat next to me and tried to explain what was going on as best she could.  But the truth is? She had no idea what it was either.  She did her own ultrasound, took more pictures and measurements and checked the blood flow to the mass.  The good news is that there was absolutely no blood flow in the mass, which rules out a lot of things including a tumor.  She also said that, although the mass is above my cervix, it's not affecting the baby at all, which is awesome.  However, for several reasons {especially considering how fast it has grown} she is sending me in for a follow up appointment and ultrasound at the hospital for a second opinion.  Her exact words? "We're not taking any chances."

I'm obviously eager to get an official diagnosis and find out exactly what this "mass above my cervix" will do to this baby's exit strategy.  I'm {of course} hoping that it's just a benign fluid-filled cyst {this is what the MFM doctor thinks as well} that either moves or goes away entirely before the baby is born.  I would absolutely hate to have a c-section at this point {after successfully delivering 2 large babies already} but I will obviously do whatever is best for both myself and the baby.

Oh, and on top of all that?  My fluid levels were "slightly elevated" and the MFM doctor said that's a sign of gestational diabetes.  I told her that I haven't had GD in either of my two previous pregnancies and already passed one GD test in the 1st trimester and took my second one just before the ultrasound.  She told me that, even if I passed my GD test, she still wants me to take the 3 hour test to rule out GD officially. {Ummm, how does the 1 hour not rule it out??}  I took the 3 hour with Carter and it was torturous so I'm definitely hoping not to do that again.

I called my OB's office this morning and found out that I did pass my 1 hour test that I just took on Friday morning, {WOOT!} so I'm eager to see what my OB says about taking the 3 hour.  My nurse said that I passed by a lot, so I'm hoping that my doctor rules out GD officially.  I will, of course, take the 3 hour if my OB also thinks I should do it.  She has yet to receive the official ultrasound report so once she does, she will call and discuss everything with me {including the mass situation!}

Andplusalso? {Ha! Did you guys think I was done with this update?  Nope... there's more.}

My pregnancy has now be labeled "high risk" {because of the mass, my fluid levels, my pre-e issues and having large babies.}  I now have to be seen every week by MFM for a Biophysical Profile {BPP}.  If you don't know {um, because I didn't before this appointment} a BPP is a special ultrasound that tracks movement, the baby's heart rate with each movement {a.k.a. a nonstress test}, muscle tone, breathing rate, and the amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the baby. My BPP appointments start this Friday followed by my hospital ultrasound for the mass.

So, yeah.  I have an ultrasound {or two} every Friday until this baby arrives.

While I'm certainly thankful for all the extra monitoring to help get me and the babe to the 38+ week mark, I sure picked the wrong pregnancy to be team green, huh?  It's not that I'm tempted to find out at ALL {especially at this point!} but it's just the general slippage with each passing doctor and tech that walks into the room and/or the use or pronouns that worries me.

So after 57 ultrasounds by the end of this pregnancy, if we're still surprised at birth?  It will be a freaking miracle.

Pregnancy: 28 weeks

Weight Gain: 21 pounds

Sleep: It sucks.  I'm having so much trouble falling asleep, but hey!  I'm getting a lot of reading done.

Gender: We're team green, so we'll find out in September {hopefully, right!?!}

Names: Reid Joseph or Emerson Mae {see the name post here!}

Feeling: A little rattled after my appointment on Friday, but I'm trying to stay positive about everything.  I'm trying not to worry about the "what ifs" yet, until we know more. Again, the baby is perfect and that's the most important thing!!

Health:  Umm, did you read the update above?

Movement: Feeling lots of movement and I love every second of it!  The baby was really dancing around like crazy during the ultrasound on Friday.  So adorable.

Belly: Measuring over 3 weeks ahead right now, still no linea negra and my belly button has been out for awhile. And for comparison, here's my 28 week belly shot with Brynn!

Next Appointment: Biophysical Profile & follow-up "mass" ultrasound: this Friday, June 29th at 28w5d