Friday, January 16, 2009

There Must Be a Mistake

I'm at 10 1/2 weeks gestation today. 10 1/2 weeks. I keep looking at the calendar thinking there must have been some sort of mistake. Part of me thinks when I go to the doctor for my next appointment, the nurse will look at my chart and tell me it's all been a big misunderstanding.

Now, I know that's not possible. I've had too many of that sort of exam to know none of this is imaginary, but still, I am in awe to be this far along with minimal complications. Were it not for the whole heterotopic pregnancy issue, this would be a normal pregnancy. That never happens to me!

My progesterone level has remained stable throughout this first trimester. James and I can't help but analyze everything, and we're really wondering if my successful levels are related to the blood thinner I've been taking all this time. Normally, my natural progesterone level is around 10-11 because of my short luteal phase. I then take 300 mg of Prometrium every day, plus 50 mg of a compounded progesterone supplement. Normally, I'm dosed three times every day. Throughout this pregnancy, I've taken one 200 mg tablet of progesterone (except for the time span between 8-10 weeks where I took two per day as a precaution), and my levels have ranged between 21-46. I've never been above 15-16, even with triple supplementation!

When I last miscarried, my MFM suggested I may have some sort of blood clotting issue. While two panels of blood work for common clotting issues have come back normal, he's had me taking a low-dose baby aspirin since my positive pregnancy test -- just to be safe. Since taking the baby aspirin, my hormone levels and fetal growth levels have been better than ever, and I can't help but think there's a connection -- particularly when I commonly miscarry at 8 1/2 weeks when the placenta begins to grow and tap into my blood supply. At that point, a healthy blood flow matters.

Regardless of the medical reason this pregnancy is progressing well, I am so grateful. I know every day is God's miracle, a gift to me. I don't take anything for granted. I still feel overwhelmed by peace. Thank you, Abba Father.

3 comments:

Randi~Dukes and Duchesses said...

I'm so happy for you ... you deserve a smooth, enjoyable pregnancy.

Emily said...

The prayers still continue. Sounds like things are doing good.

Jenny said...

That's great!! So excited that you are progressing like a normal pregnancy!