32 weeks

The Pearsall Twins have had an eventful couple of days!

Yesterday morning (6/29), we went in for a biophysical profile (BPP) ultrasound at Maternal Fetal Medicine (MFM), which tests their breathing, movement, blood flow, swallowing, etc. Both babies scored an 8/8 - perfect! We also got a cute picture with both of their heads together! This was the first appointment that both babies were head-down. We go back next Thursday (7/7) for another BPP and growth ultrasound.

After the MFM appointment, Chuck and I had a few hours to kill before my OB appointment, so we ate lunch at Olive Garden, did a little shopping, and tried to rest up.

At the OB, the news wasn't quite so positive. She is worried that MFM won't see adequate growth in the little girl next week (at least 200 grams) and may recommend anything from rest to delivery! She suggested I get steroid shots just in case pre-term delivery becomes necessary. While I wasn't thrilled about the idea of two shots in my butt, I was willing to do it for the babies. I also asked about our "target" date of 8/9 for the c-section, and she revised her best case scenario to 8/2. I'm actually happy with that date (I'll be 37 weeks - plenty far along enough for healthy babies). After checking my cervix (closed!), I was off to triage for my first shot.

Admittedly, I was nervous for the shot, but it was a breeze. The worst part was the slight soreness afterwards.

We finally got home after a long day, and I crashed in my recliner for awhile. When I woke up, I felt crummy - just grumpy and tired, so we ate dinner. Then, around 6 pm, the contractions started. Painful contractions that came anywhere from 3-10 minutes apart. I drank water, rested in bed on my left side, even took a warm bath to try to stop them. No luck. They lessened, but didn't stop. Finally, around 10pm, I decided they weren't going to stop on their own, and they were still coming 5-10 minutes apart. I messaged my wonderful mom on FB to see if she could come stay with the girls, and Chuck and I headed back to the hospital.

After almost an hour of registering and waiting, I was finally checked (1cm dilated, 80% effaced) and hooked up to 2 heartbeat monitors and a monitor for the contractions, and the observation period began. Another hour passed, and they decided that I was indeed having "contractions and some irritability" (Yes, I know! That's why I came in!), and contacted the on-call doc. She recommended a shot of terbutaline to stop the contractions. The nurse noted that the drug may make me jittery and increase my heart rate. Luckily, the shot worked perfectly and the contractions stopped immediately, but I felt like my heart was going to jump out of my skin and my extremities shook uncontrollably! Finally, around 2:30am, we were sent home. The side-effects of the shot wore off about 3:30 or 4:00, and I finally got to sleep.

Whew, it was a long day and night for all of us! We are headed back to the hospital today for another steroid shot, but I hope no more contractions!

31 weeks, 3 days

Another ultrasound yesterday (6/23) revealed that baby boy is sort of taking over in there. His estimated weight is 4lbs 4oz, and the baby girl is estimated to weigh just 3lbs. That is a 30% difference as opposed to the 20% difference three weeks ago. So, the doctor would now like me to come in for weekly ultrasounds (biophysical profiles to be exact) to ensure that both babies continue to get what they need. The good news is that both seem to be doing just fine individually, there is just a difference in their sizes.

As far as I'm concerned, I haven't gained any weight in about a month (still at about 38lbs total gain), my feet tingle when I stand, my hands are swollen, and sleeping is becoming more difficult. None of these things seemed to concern the doctor, so I guess I'm doing okay.

I am really looking forward to the baby shower on Sunday as it should be a fun time and a much needed break from the monotony of sitting around at home!

28 weeks, 3 days

The ultrasound this morning went wonderfully. The girl measured 2lbs 7oz (50%ish), and the boy was 3lbs 1oz (75%ish). While there is a difference between the two, they are each growing as they should on their own growth scales. The doctor isn't worried and attributed the difference to the sexes - little girl, big boy. Everyone is relieved that they are both just fine.

However, the doctor did tell me that I need to rest as much as possible from now on. The babies are growing rapidly now, and every ounce of energy, oxygen, calories, etc. I expend by walking, shopping, working, etc., takes away from them. Apparently the babies need me to lay around and eat and help them grow, so that is what I plan to do as much as possible.

I have another OB appointment in 2 weeks and an ultrasound in 3 weeks. In the mean time, the Pearsall's have a busy schedule (that Chuck is going to have to take over!). Both Chuck and I have Professional Development the next four work days, the girls start swim lessons Monday, then Ella has Girl Scout day camp the following week; not to mention the Heartland Parade, Chuck's band concert, doctor's appointments, a Louisville Bats game, and Girl Scout meetings. I guess laying around is going to be harder than I thought...

For your enjoyment and amusement, here is a picture of me and my ginormous belly at 28 weeks.
And for comparison, 38 weeks or so with Anna - about 2 days before delivery.