Congratulations Nicki P!!!

I have to give a much belated congrats to a friend who had her son in late July (((Kaiden Jay))). He (who was actually supposed to be a girl according to the ultrasound) was born quite a bit early (32 weeks), but looks like he's quite the trooper. Unlike me, Nicki had no signs of premature labor or other complications, but one night had to call 911 when she realized she was actually in labor. She got to the hospital, already at 7 cm, and delivered her son shortly thereafter. Last I heard he was still using a feeding tube while waiting for those relfexes to kick in, but all else was great and he is ADORABLE! I love this story since I am due only a few weeks after her (well...was due). It makes me feel better and helps me to believe our son will be ok if he comes early.

Of course, our doctor has reassured us that if we have to induce labor or if I go into to premature labor, it will be safe to deliver him at this point. I am almost 33weeks, which is still very early, but we got the steroid shot and it appears he should be over 4 pounds at this point. He may still end up in the NICU, but shouldn't have any long-term problems. Ahhhh...sigh of relief. So right now our only concern is making sure that I avoid any situations where an abruption would get worse (if I actually have one...only 30% are diagnosable by ultrasound...how fun). This is why they would consider sticking me in the hospital for weeks and weeks or just inducing me. If the placenta detaches from the uterine wall too much, the baby's source of oxygen and nutrients will be cut off, which is very bad for obvious reasons. If I'm already in the hospital, it is obviously ideal for them to get him out right away should this occur. On the other hand, is this all over-reaction? It is always possible that a small tear will stay a small tear, especially since it hasn't appeared to have gotten worse, in which case I could spend my time being more comfortable at home. It is also possible that this is simply how my little body reacts to having a small bowling ball in my belly, and I could hang on until 40 weeks. I suppose we may not know until the big day...I'll do my best to keep everyone posted.