Doctor's Visit

Today I went to the doctor for my monthly check-up. Looks like the baby is doing fine and growing just like she should. Her kicks and wiggles in my belly are getting stronger every day though, so I felt pretty sure she's healthy before we even went to our appointment.

I have a mysterious rash that started on my stomach and has now spread down to my knees, and up to my chest, sides, and back. It itches like crazy and I go nuts fighting not to scratch it. We did some blood work today to find out if the rash is pregnancy related and also to check up on my general health and well being. We'll get the result next week I suppose.

Dr. Barton wants to start seeing me every two weeks now, even though I'm only 23 weeks along. I think he's a little worried. He says that the fetus is considered viable at this point, but we are still trying to get me as far as we can. It all depends on my pain tolerance and whether or not we are successful in avoiding infections. He's a little concerned we might not make it to 34 weeks. He told me not to hesitate to take pain medication when I need it-- something that I have tried to do as infrequently as possible since I know the lortab can cause problems for the baby. However, coming too early would probably cause worse problems, so I think I'll take his advice and use the lortab a little more often. He also told me to keep trying to get out of the house sometimes and to do something each day to keep my morale up. I don't think he expects me to run a marathon, but only to sit outside, go see a movie, or visit with friends. Simple things that will help time pass more easily and help me get through each day.  He's alright with me driving short distances on surface roads, but never on the freeway or for very long stretches of time.

Although it is easy to get discouraged, I really do believe that I'll be able to carry this baby long enough to give birth to a healthy child. At least to a point where she will not have any long term health issues related to prematurity. It's difficult, and it will get harder with each week that goes by, but I also think that the Lord will continue to increase my stamina and ability to cope.