Here We Go

Well, we managed to make it 27 weeks and three days before hearing those dreaded four words: "You're on bed rest." I'm not complaining necessarily, but it certainly does add an additional stress element to an already stress-packed pregnancy. We went for a routine doctor's appointment this morning, and my OB suggested the Fetal Fibronectin (FFn) test. This test is usually conducted when there is concern that a woman may go into preterm labor. Seeing how Ava was 8 weeks early, my entire pregnancy has been labeled as "high risk," and I've had doctors and specialists a plenty keeping a keen eye on me and the baby (for which we have been most grateful). I have been a prime candidate for just about every test known for pregnancy, and the FFn test is just one of them. The FFn test looks for a special protein that is present in the amniotic sac during pregnancy. If that protein is detected in the test, then there is a higher risk for preterm labor. My test this morning came back positive, which means the protein was detected and action needs to be taken now. Or rather, lack of action as it pertains to me. I was so glad the test was done this morning, but the results have left us totally confused. Every test and ultrasound up to this point has indicated a solid pregnancy with very little chance of a preterm delivery. Now today, there is some evidence that points to the contrary and I'm left wondering what to believe. The good news is that there are a lot of false-positives with the FFn test, so there's a chance that this is a false alarm. But with my history, we can't afford the risk of assuming it is.

So I have an appointment with my specialist tomorrow morning for another ultrasound, and I go back to see my OB in a week. Between now and then, I am on modified bed rest and can't do much more than what is absolutely necessary to make it through the day. My biggest concern is Ava. She has gotten quite good at entertaining herself and I'm not worried about being able to care for her in the most basic sense. But I am afraid she will get bored at home and begin to resent me because I am unable to play with her the way she is used to me playing with her. I don't want her to feel any less loved because I am horizontal on the sofa all day. I just have to keep reminding myself that "this, too, shall pass."

I have equipped myself with a notepad to jot down some ideas of what I can do to keep busy during these next couple of weeks. I plan to sort through my massive recipe file, shop for the baby online, scrapbook, and keep this blog updated. My fear is that I will begin to blog about stupid stuff, like the construction progress of the new house next door, or my plans to rearrange the spice rack once I am able to do things like that again. I'll try to refrain, but no promises.

Whatever the outcome, Stefan and I know that God is in control. He's got it covered, plain and simple. His will be done and we trust that 100 percent. And although we are praying for a full-term pregnancy and a healthy baby at the end of it, we know we will be able to handle whatever He gives to us. Your prayers are appreciated as well!