So, I had my 20-week ultrasound on Tuesday. It was depressing! I have low-amniotic fluid and my placenta is thick, too thick for 20-weeks according to the doc. The doc explained that if there isn't enough fluid for the baby to swallow over the next 4-6 weeks, the lungs won't develop properly and he/she won't be able to survive outside of the womb. The other concern is there is not enough room for the baby to move around, so the joints could get stuck and the baby could need intensive therapy after he/she is born. He also thinks the placenta has a chromosomal "problem" and confirmed I have complete placenta previa. I have a myriad of problems going on right now. Had blood work done yesterday, so hopefully we will know something next week. Needless to say, I've been a mess. I feel so helpless. They did tell me I need to soak in a bath for 45-60 minutes per day (apparently there is research that shows this helps increase blood flow to the uterus, which will increase the fluid level), I have to drink 2.5-3L of water per day and stay off my feet as much as possible. So I'm helpless to help DH around the house and to really do anything to help the baby, not to mention all the things I can't do with my son. DH is very supportive, which makes me feel even worse, if that makes sense. I'm the kind of person that likes to be busy, taking care of my family, not having them take care of me. This is so very hard! I'm so scared I'm going to be strapped to the table for a C-section (which I will have to have due to the previa) and will not be able to hold my baby before it passes. that's my biggest fear! Next is having a baby with major mental and physical defects...I just don't want my baby to have to live like that. I know, maybe I sound selfish, but it's not the life I want for my child. I'm sorry to dump this on you all, but it feels good to get it out. Thanks for "listening"!
