Today Was a Good Day

I’m gonna see how many references I can make to members of NWA throughout this blog’s tenure.

After relaxing and reclining for the morning, I met Justin at the doctor at 1:30 PM. We were taken back to the ultrasound room quickly, something for which I was very thankful.  It was my first belly ultrasound (all others have been vaginal), so that was exciting. She quickly scanned them and stated that we didn’t have to worry, both heartbeats were present and strong. I have NO idea how they’re able to see so quickly, but she then went slower so that we could see.

Then, we started the NT (nuchal translucency) scan. The purpose of today’s scan was to  measure the clear (translucent) space in the tissue at the back of your baby’s neck. Babies with abnormalities tend to accumulate more fluid at the back of their neck during the first trimester, causing this clear space to be larger than average. Both babies’ measurements were good on this and their nasal bones looked good!  After the ultrasound and after discussing some more, we decided to refuse any further genetic testing.

Baby A’s heart rate was 170 and Baby B’s heart rate was 180 and both were funny. Baby B is still the more active one and was kicking and dancing and waving all around. Baby A did finally decide to flip all around so we could see him, but overall was less active than Baby B. They don’t like taking pictures together, but we have a semi-decent one with them both in it and one of each of them waving, separately. They’re both measuring ahead and are seemingly doing well.

As for the bleeding, it is likely from a cyst that has begun draining. There are still cysts up there hanging out and there can also be spontaneous bleeding from my cervix due to its sensitivity in its current state. We discussed when to be worried and when to not be worried and she explained that she would fit me in for an ultrasound anytime I needed (within reason).

In a weird development, my blood pressure is continuing the downtrend. I have had slightly high blood pressure in my adult life (125/85), but now after becoming pregnant, I’m hovering around 100/60, so that’s interesting, but good. I have completely cut out caffeine, but I have a hard time believing that’s what’s caused it.  I did not actually keep the two pounds I thought I gained, so I’m pleased that the babies are still doing well.  We need to see some weight gain by my 16 week appointment, so that’s my focus at the moment.

So, I have four weeks until our next appointment. We will be focused on keeping those babies growing until then!

In other news, one year ago today was my first egg retrieval. It’s been one hell of a year, that’s for sure.

Below are our babies, a turtle that came to visit me today while I was resting, and a sign that was fortuitously in the doctor’s office bathroom!