Counting down to GC #3

Do encourage her to question her doctor fully about the options, my first baby was growth restricted in utero, so I am familiar with the issues. Doctors will often deliver based on lung maturity without thinking about other potential issues. My growth restricted baby made his own decision when to appear, which was in week 37 and he was fine other than moderate jaundice, though he did have a weak suck and though he initiated breastfeeding fine, it caused some issues later on.

My third child is 6 weeks old today, she was born at 37 weeks, my doctor said she didn't feel safe waiting longer and we didn't really question that, we had an amnio to check lung maturity, but were going to deliver that day regardless, it was just a matter of whether I got steroids or not. I wish we'd questioned more and we will do when I go in for my 6 week check on Tuesday, maybe it was the right time to deliver, I can't be sure, but it has caused a lot of issues, baby ended up in NICU due to low blood sugar and is having huge problems nursing, so I'm having to pump and she's getting her milk via a tube and syringe, even so, she's still having major issues gaining weight, she's 14oz above her birth weight, when it should be at least twice that. My doctor never mentioned any of these as possibilities, yet everyone we are seeing for help is saying it's because of her gestation. We suspect she was actually even earlier than 37 weeks, it was an unplanned pregnancy so I was several days late when I tested and it was only a very faint positive.

It can be hard work to wait even a week longer as with a vulnerable baby in utero, they'll probably want daily monitoring as an alternative to delivery, but that week can be worth so much as I'm discovering now.

Cheers Anne

My DD is very good about questioning things and recommendations, but you make very valid points. Congrats on your little 6 week daughter. I hope things settle down for you quickly. My DD had a terrible time trying to breastfeed with her last one and has chosen not to try this time. I know there are those that are passionate about breast vs. bottle but she needs to do what she feels is best for the baby, especially if there will be a nourishment issue.

Thanks for all the good wishes, I will certainly keep everyone posted. We're all set for the new addition, now it's just waiting for her to make her appearance!

Too much medical talk going on here for me to understand. No matter. I don't even understand how the radio works. Hugs to you, Alice, and prayers for that precious little one. I have some wonderful preemie clothes patterns here if she arrives too wee for chubby baby clothes. Our first granddaughter weighed only 3 pounds; oh my she was a tiny darling. Do keep us posted as each anxious day goes by. We will hold all of you close. Polly

Alice, Your DD and her infant are in my prayers. Best to all, PAT in VA/USA