High Risk Pregnancy

I remember hearing about women who had "high risk" pregnancies and thought, "Poor ladies. . .they have to stay in bed ALL day and do NOTHING!" I thought "high risk" referred to women who were having multiples, were older, or had some sort of physical disability which would make it hard for them to carry a baby. What did I know?!?!?

Now, on my 5th pregnancy in just over 5 years, I have come to a new understanding. "High risk" can include a variety of factors (of which I have 5 - seems to be a popular number with me, huh?). Thought I would just give a bit of information for those who are curious. Here are my risks.

1) I am over 35. I know, I don't look my age, right? Apparently, women over 35 have a higher occurrence of complications with pregnancy. I am fortunate to know MANY ladies my age who have had healthy babies (thanks for the encouragement, girls!).

2) I have had preeclampsia. Some of the symptoms include a drastic rise in blood pressure, edema (swelling), and blurry vision. During my first and third pregnancies I was induced because of this.

3) I have had preterm labor and delivery (also known as spontaneous labor). With my second son, my blood pressure rose on a Monday and I went into labor on Friday. He came rather quickly at just 34 wks.

4) I have had a stillbirth. Last year, at 20 wks gestation, my baby was stillborn. Thankfully, I have a great dr. who investigated the issue and gave me lots of great information about my 5th risk factor.

5) I have a thrombophilia (called C677T). This is a condition where my body is prone to blood clots and has difficulty absorbing folic acid. Because of this, I need to give myself two shots of Heparin daily, up until 6 weeks after delivery! I also take extra folic acid and iron pills (for my iron-deficient anemia).

Though all of this is a bit overwhelming, I know God is in control. After we lost our baby last year, my hubby asked, "Are we going to try for another?" I answered that if I was not pregnant by the end of 2010, then our family would be complete with three little boys. At the beginning of December I came to terms with not having more children. I was a bit sad, but only because I had a bit of emptiness from losing one.

The Wednesday before Christmas I went to the grocery store and forgot ALL my coupons. I complained to my husband, "I must be losing my mind!" He replied, "You're not pregnant, are you?" Well, wouldn't you know it, he was right. And right before the end of 2010! God listens to our thoughts as well as our specific prayers :)

I would appreciate your prayers as I foresee this as a "difficult" pregnancy (for me and baby). Since I am working, it will be a real issue for me to keep my blood pressure down. And, due to the thrombophilia, my dr. is planning to induce me at 37 wks, so pray I don't have preterm labor again! I appreciate all those who are concerned and look forward to announcing the arrival of our little one by the end of July :)