Incompetent Cervix - stitch/cerclage - threatened labour

[Mommy's Angel]

Thanks Sherri and Lizzie.

We're doing okay so far. I feel her kicking more and a few times I've felt like she's kicking out my vagina. Wondering if that's a normal thing or if that means she went from the 2.0 cervical length to the stitch this quick?!

I also feel like my lower pelvic muscles cramp a bit. Almost feel like they are useless and may be why I have IC. They just don't feel as though they're holding the belly up at all. Could be my weight. I am plus size, but just feels a bit weird is all.

In the end, I'm keeping my head up and trying to stay positive. Bed rest hasn't been too bad. Our church family has been bringing us meals twice a week and someone nominated us for free maid service. Can you believe that?? I feel like I should be out by a pool with lemonade in my hand. Feels kind of odd that someone is cleaning while I'm at home, but overall everyone has been helpful SO MUCH to us and I'm praying we'll continue to pass 20wks, 22wks, 24 and so on to term.

Sherri, how are you doing lately?

 

[rensben]

Hello all,

MA, i've got lots of low down kicks as well but it's totally normal. Baby just hasn't turned yet! Happy to hear that things are going well.

As for me, I am more worried about PTL at the moment due to my stress levels. My husband leaves on Friday for 6 months and I am just not doing well. The reality of it all is finally hitting me. I am Canadian but I live in France as my husband is french. I have no family here except my in-laws who are great but it's nt the same. we just moved to a new city and have few friends. The next few days are going to be really hard and I am struggling to deal with all of it. I have a scan tomorrow to check my cervix.Really hoping for some good news!

 

[lizziedripping]

Rensben Feel for you hun. You must understandabley be feeling stressed out and low. I so wish we lived closer, I could call in to keep you company and give moral support. xxx

MA - as Rensben says, the low kicks are very normal, and not usually anything to do with a weak cervix. One of the twins remained breech right to 38wks, and as a result gave me some real scares with his constant kicks in my cervix. It actually took my breath away. Very soon your lo will move up and into your abdomen and out of your pelvis - this always feels much better for us IC ladies, since the weight of baby is moved away from the cervix x

 

[Sherri81]

Hmmm, the kicks... Well, Devon was much more active down there than this one is. And yet both of them were heads down, so I think in my case its a boy's vs girl's thing.

So with Devon, I did have a lot of punching down there. It felt like she was trying to make her break! So I'd say, a lot of movement down there is normal. If the stitch was placed correctly then there should be no concern that the baby will break through.

As for the weak lower muscles, I think that is still just a left over from the surgery. I wouldn't say my muscles are overly weak down there, but I did feel like things were going to drop out all the time in the first few weeks after the surgery. When I first started getting up and about while I was pregnant with Devon, I felt like I had been an invalid forever. It was like I couldn't stand up straight, couldn't stand long, walk far etc... because my lower abs felt so weak. But eventually things started getting back to normal.

As for me, I'm still here. Still pregnant! Who ever saw that one coming, lol. I do weekly NSTs here. The last one was a bit troubling, but they think he was just asleep for most of it. There was almost no variability in his heart rate. Eventually there was some, so hopefully they are right and he was just sleeping. I've been giving off leukocytes in my urine for my last few urine dips. They did a culture and nothing came back, so I'm just wondering what is happening there... They did say that sometimes women get leuks without a real reason for it. He isn't moving as much, but they are trying to reassure me that that's because there is less room for him to move about in. They have agreed to bump up the NSts to a few times a week if I feel a need for it. But he still moves... its just I could go 3 hours or more sometimes with no movement from him at all. And there is less kicking, but more of just that squirming feeling and a foot in the ribs all the time, lol.

I've started to try and get past my fear by setting up the nursery some. I have not taken price tags off of everything just yet though. So the new clothes still have tags on them. They're folded, or hanging, but still with tags on... Same with crib sheets, basinnette sheets, change pad sheets, blankets, bottles, soothers, laundry hamper etc... Everything is getting put where I want it, but just with tags on... I know, some people think its weird that I don't wash brand new baby clothes. But I don't know... Its not like adult clothes. No one is trying them on or anything, and I never washed Greg's brand new clothes after buying them, and he actually has a wonderful immune system. So maybe there's something to it.... lol. I don't know.

But yeah, thats a big step for me. I'm starting to think more along the lines of him actually being here...

And that's about it for me really. I do go out and about, I just try not to stay out too long. Like I'll do a quick trip to Walmart to look for baby stuff or get my meds etc... So being home and being able to drive and control my own life has made a huge difference in my stress levels, which obviouslly helps him too.

 

[Mommy's Angel]

Thanks Ladies. All these new feelings with the IC issues and I haven't a clue what's normal and what's not. It's great to have this group of friends to figure things out. Today I sneezed and pee'd the bed for crying out loud. I think it was just the position and the weak muscles down there. I kept asking my husband if he thought it would affect the stitch at all. I'm such a nut case lately!

Rensben, So sorry about the stress of hubby leaving for 6 months. When we moved to Ohio several years back while Doug was going to school we had no family and I knew nobody. Blogging and the boards made me feel better. I became online friends with people and it really helped passing the time. Sadly I miss my blogging community as the origional one I had changed the blogging program and it became harder to use. Most of us left to either blogger or somewhere else, so I don't know where half those friends are now. I'm really into homesteading which is what Doug and I would like to do someday. It kept me sane when I didn't know many people. I then made friends around the apartment complex but it's harder to make friends in real life when we're on bed rest.

In fact, to pass the time yesterday, I had Doug bring up the flat decorative pillows from downstairs and I restuffed them and hand sewed them. Took up some time. Now I'm trying to figure out the next project.

Try doing a google search for blogs that have some kind of interest to you. That may help to pass the time. I found a blog from a woman who lost her twins in 06' shortly got pregnant and had IC with bedrest like us. It's been quite fun to read. SO funny! I totally understand what she's going through and it makes me laugh.

Right at this moment I have to go to the bathroom and miss Amelia decides to move
around making me have to pee even more.

Lizzie, I understand that feeling of taking your breath away as that was kinda how I felt. Though she's pretty tiny right now. Not sure how it'd feel when she gets bigger!

Sherri, glad things are moving forward. Can't believe how close your getting now. Praying the baby is just tired and will pick up movement more often for you.

I also can understand the fear of buying things. I actually purchased a micropreemie outfit and two preemie outfits. They're the cutest outfits I NEVER hope to use! After what happened with Jackson, I told myself I wanted to be "prepared". Then I'd move forward to more positive thinking which I should start at 34 just in case.

Didn't share about my appointment on Monday. Went for a fetal echocardiogram and the idiot scared the pants off my. Amelia wasn't in the greatest position but they kept saying they saw a hole in her heart. What's called VSD. He said it "could" be a shadow from her ribs but he would need to see us in 8wks...and OH, it's associated with Downs he said as we were leaving. I was PISSED! First of all, if you have no concrete evidence she has a hole, don't just throw it out there. Ask for another appointment for crying out loud before you give your guesses! Next, he had me freaking out about Downs and we haven't seen any signs up till he said that. Turns out, it "could" be associated with Downs but there are MANY infants without Downs who have this and it's QUITE COMMON and one of the easiest heart defects to help.

So after a cry and then a bout of rage, I decided to let it go until we actually see the results from the next test in 8 weeks. He kept making me feel like I'm old and ready to die at the age of 37. Are you kidding me??

This Friday I have my scan to check the stitch and I'm interested to see how much length I have left. It freaks me out that with the funneling she could possibly be at the stitch at any time. I think I've heard some of you say that it happens and the stitch will hold them in if placed right. Praying all is well in there and for the first time I have a positive attitude about things. We're 20wks 3 dys today. I'm excited to pass that 22wk milestone soon. Knowing it's coming up is starting to freak me the heck out. I don't know how you ladies get through this part!

 

[HelenGee]

Sherri- hope all is ok with the little guy. It's not weird to leave the tags on stuff until you're sure, I did exactly the same I just had a couple of things washed and ready. Now Bella speeds through her clothes I don't get chance to wash them, she's growing so fast xx

MA- sorry but the peeing thing does sound like a weak pelvic floor but don't worry about it. I've come to realise that I had both a bladder prolapse and ic. I wouldn't advise doing kegels until after delivery, no-one told me not to it just didn't feel like the right thing to do as it may loosen the stitch IMO. BUT the bed rest will help as taking the weight off the pelvic muscles will give them a break. I don't honestly think that a weak pelvic floor and ic are connected. If you do think that prolapse could be a possibility then it is worth trying to avoid an assisted delivery (and who wouldn't?!) as this can aggravate it. Most of all, my pelvic heaviness symptoms eased once I'd been resting a while.

Rensben- my heart goes out to you, it's hard to stay strong when you feel like you have little control over events. Could any of your family visit and give some support? I know it's a long shot, but it might be worth asking xxxx take care xxx

 

[HelenGee]

Sherri- I had leuk in a few of my urine dip tests, it meant nothing. My consultant told me that sometimes a bit of vaginal discharge can get mixed in. She sent a sample for culture even though it looked like mineral water, I was drinking gallons of water, it all came back clear. I don't think 1 or 2 leukocytes are anything serious xx

 

[rensben]

hi again all,


max: congrats on your twins! it sounds like they are doing well. Take heart in that as I know the next couple months in the hospital can be long and trying.

Well today is D-day. My husband is off doing a few last minute errands with our son. He leaves this afternoon. The hardest part is watching him with Gabriel and knowing that they won't see eachother for 6 months. My son absolutely adores his Dad and I am dreading watching the good bye in a few hours. As for me and baby, we had a scan yesterday and there has been no change in cervix length. It's been holding strong at 2.5cm for the last 4 weeks. I'm still resting but since I don't have as many contractions as before I allow myself to do things around the house (don't worry, not housework!) The stitch will come out July 20th and I'm feeling confident that we'll make it.

 

[Ashley9603]

Well ladies my doctor appt went well,my doctor eased my mind about the shortening of my cervical length(34mm)he says at this point its still good length and its normal for some women,ic or not to experience some shortening.He thinks I will make it between 32-34 weeks.Im aiming for 36 weeks.He says they are growing extremely well and all my labs look good so now its just the waiting game.Im still nervous though.

 

[Mommy's Angel]

Rensben and Ashley, Hooray for the good news. Rensben, your almost there! I love hearing all these excellent outcomes. Brings me lots of hope and joy!

Today I too had an appointment and for once I got some good news. The Dr. checked my cervical length and there has been no more lessening and no more funneling since the day the stitch was put in. Amelia is doing excellent and she actually kicked the nurse because she was pushing down too much to hear her little heartbeat.

I see the Dr. again next week to keep track of things and will have another scan done both to check the length and stitch AND for the anatomy and heart.

By the grace of God, I can honestly say bed rest is working! It's as boring as all getup, but it's working!

 

[rensben]

found this link and thought it was interesting...what do you think ladies?

https://www.keepemcookin.com/prevention.aspx

 

[lizziedripping]

Oh ladies, it's brilliant you all seem to be doing so well!! yay

Ashley - 34 is a normal length for your gestation with twins, I have a feeling you're gonna go to 36wks and beyond hun x

Ren - good news for you too, and thanks for the brilliant article - very useful. I certainly wish there was an option in my HA for the progesterone injections. It would make me feel more confident about embarking on another pregnancy - unfortunately my hospital don't routinely prescribe it for women like me x

MA - you're gonna be fine hun, I think things are definitely looking up for you x

 

[Mommy's Angel]

Oh ladies, it's brilliant you all seem to be doing so well!! yay

Ashley - 34 is a normal length for your gestation with twins, I have a feeling you're gonna go to 36wks and beyond hun x

Ren - good news for you too, and thanks for the brilliant article - very useful. I certainly wish there was an option in my HA for the progesterone injections. It would make me feel more confident about embarking on another pregnancy - unfortunately my hospital don't routinely prescribe it for women like me x

MA - you're gonna be fine hun, I think things are definitely looking up for you x

Thanks Lizzie, it feels good to breathe again and actually look forward to the excitement instead of wonder if it will ever happen.

Forgot to mention I asked for a culture on my urine to make sure I don't have a UTI.

Today has been the first day I can just

I'll keep you all posted as things progress.

 

[rensben]

Hi ladies,

A few questions for you all. I am almost certain that my baby has dropped into my pelvis. Last night, I felt her make some big movements and this morning I can breathe and eat much more easily that I have been able to the last few weeks. I was so out of breath before and eating was difficult. I have also had loose bowel movements and gas since Saturday evening..almost like a clearing out which I know happens before labour starts. As you know I'm almost 29 weeks and I went into labour at 30 weeks with Gabriel. Am I just being paranoid or could my body be up to something?

 

[lizziedripping]

HI Rensben. I was fearful of those symptoms during the twin pregnancy, and had them all the time from about 28wks - the bump also dropped alarmingly low from that point on. As you know, I was pregnant for another 10wks after that with no sign of labour, so the symptoms meant nothing other than babies getting bigger, displacing my bowel and causing horrendous gas.

It is normal for your bowel to do somersaults, and either be loose or constipated at this stage, but natural for you to be worried. I did have a "clearing out" before the full-term delivery of my first baby, but it was totally different and unmistakable - I was also in early labour when it happened.

There is no reason at the moment why you should suddenly go into labour hun. What you describe can be perfectly normal for every woman so don't fret There would be plenty of other signs of impending labour to accompany these symptoms - none of which you have had xxx

 

[Mommy's Angel]

So good to know Lizzie. Rensben I'm so glad Lizzie has this experience. It set my mind at ease for you.

Constipation. Oh goodness I have it now. I think it's from the 17P injections. I've been given colease so as not to cause any issues from the pushing. It's also causing nausea again. I'm back to having issues with eating.

It is HOT here. Tomorrow will be 91 here with humidity and I'm SO GLAD I have air conditioning Oh how I would LOVE to sit in the water at the beach but I'm assuming that may cause infection even if I lie there. So I figure the close I'll get is a shower and back to the air conditioning. Haha It's ALL worth it though in the end. I wont complain. Till of course I get overheated.

Love to you all!!

 

[rensben]

Thanks Lizzie, good to know. I still think she has dropped as last night I ate an entire Pizza and didn't even feel full. A day ago I would have felt horrible after just a few bites. i'll take that as a good thing although I certainly won't be finishing off an entire pizza on a regular basis! Still have the horrendous gas though and that is no fun! They have decided to do check ups every 2 weeks now that my cervix seems stable. I don't have my next one until the 9th.

Sorry to hear about your eating issues MA. Is there anything they can give you for the nausea?

Take care everyone!

 

[KrystalDawn]

Hi everyone! Ive been a bit quiet but i have been keeping up with the thread! Lots of good news ive been seeing which is great!
I just wanted some advice - if anyone can help! Im having a bit of a meltdown today as i have my swab results show anaerobes (B.V) AGAIN. I took anti biotics for this 2 weeks ago and im not sure whether they have stayed or whether i have just got them again. My biggest fear is that my TVC will become infected after having them so long and gettin recurrent infection. Does anyone have experience with this? Im not sure what to even look out for - how would i know my stitch is infected?Im 27 weeks pregnant tomorrow. Very anxious x
p.s Anaerobes were found on my little girls infected placenta after birth - i lost twins last year

 

[Mommy's Angel]

Hi everyone! Ive been a bit quiet but i have been keeping up with the thread! Lots of good news ive been seeing which is great!
I just wanted some advice - if anyone can help! Im having a bit of a meltdown today as i have my swab results show anaerobes (B.V) AGAIN. I took anti biotics for this 2 weeks ago and im not sure whether they have stayed or whether i have just got them again. My biggest fear is that my TVC will become infected after having them so long and gettin recurrent infection. Does anyone have experience with this? Im not sure what to even look out for - how would i know my stitch is infected?Im 27 weeks pregnant tomorrow. Very anxious x
p.s Anaerobes were found on my little girls infected placenta after birth - i lost twins last year

Hi there, I'm not quite familiar with the correlation between the BV and the stitch as this is my first time with a stitch since my own loss two years ago. I'm sure Lizzie or someone more familiar with the two can help with that area.

I guess a question in my mind is what antibiotic did they have you on for BV and for how long? Maybe the dose wasn't strong enough for what you needed. Were you on Flagyl? I had two weeks of flagyl twice a day last month and things are fine right now. It's a bit more than I would have liked, but it did the trick. I seem to have a bacterium issue in my body for some reason as well.

I pray that with more meds things will start to clear up soon and that you'll have a more positive outcome this time around. I'm sure this has you anxious. Praying also the others may have more feedback for you since they are more familiar with the stitch and issues pertaining to it.


Hi Rensben, I have some anti-nausea stuff. For some reason it works for the first hour and then fades. When I had it in the I.V a few weeks ago at the hospital they had to give me several doses for it to REALLY kick in and keep me from feeling sick.

The side effects are interesting from the 17P Injections. I never would have thought I'd have different side effects different weeks. I never know what I'm going to get from week to week. I'm handling it though. I'm just grateful to have that stitch in and the injections to begin with. I think this will get me much further. In fact, Sunday will be week 22 for me. The milestone we lost Jackson. I'll be SO HAPPY to surpass that milestone. In fact, I'm looking forward to passing wks 24 and 28. I have such a positive attitude now about the whole thing.

 

[lizziedripping]

Krystal hun - I had BV diagnosed at 23wks with the twins, and no one from the hospital had contacted me to let me know, so antibiotics were delayed for 3wks!!! I was gutted, and terrified. However, my consultant (brilliant lady) explained that BV is very much a chicken and egg infection - no one is sure if it actually triggers preterm labour, OR if it tracks upwards only after the cervix has opened usually because it is incompetent.

The current thinking is that BV is common, many, many pregnant ladies have it, don't know it and it ONLY becimes a problem if and when an incompetent cervix opens. You have a mucous plug, a brilliant barrier to infection, and a stitch. There is no easy way for any infection to track into your uterus at the moment. If you think about it, many people continue to have sex during pregnancy, in which a million different bugs are introduced directly onto the cervix. Becuase it is closed and sealed, the bugs are harmless to the baby or pregnancy. Your BV should be treated, because why not cover every potential issue, but it is very, very unlikely to cause preterm labour or problems for you r pregnancy if your cervix is closed and doing so well. Hope that helps xxx