Wednesday, February 20, 2008

And the Beat goes on

The perinatologist’s office was very very far away and we both really complained about driving that far – but man o man was it worth it. I really haven’t felt more comfortable with any of my care/dr’s completely. But this Dr (aka Dr Wonderful) just laid it all out there and was sympathetic to our situation and needs. He asked me at first if I had any questions, I told him that I may have questions after he goes over the results of our scan and fetal echo. He explained that, as of now, everything is measuring on target and Mini is nearing 16 oz.(~15.5 oz for now). He stated that things seemed to be measuring a few days ahead but that was good news and not bad news. It just gives them wiggle room with my due date (which is still the same). He explained that he was originally concerned about my ASD and spine but after the pictures and echo, all looks great and processing growth that normal.

Then we started discussing the lo.veno.x, auto immune issues, and fertility. Apparently, I have been confused on this topic – and an now a little more confused with a little more clear understanding – if that even makes since.

My RE tested me for a zillion of things. I thought I understood that the mt.hf.r disorder was being treated by the lo.ve.no.x, but that is not the case. I am taking an extra fo.lic acid pill for that. This disorder is called
ho.moc.ysteine.

The Lo.ve.no.x is being used to treat an abnormal level of Anti-cardiolipin antibodies.(a.c.a testing) There was a test that revealed that I had a slightly higher level than normal. I think the paper stated that fewer than 11 are good or 10, and mine was 20. Dr Wonderful stated that I was at a slight risk for deep thrombosis as a result of these findings (and m/c's), It’s just precautionary and dually noted to watch. He also explained to me that most women use lo.ve.nox(he.pa.rin along with prednisone and a baby aspirin) early in a pregnancy or before they become pregnant because it makes the uterus/cells more “sticky” to help with implantation if there is to be believed of a need to assist in that area. Since I did not start taking it until week 8 or 9 – he doesn’t think it had much effect on this pregnancy. He also states that my dosages are much too low for a patient who legimately does have this problem. Dr. Wonderful said that based on the dose, he doesn’t think I necessary “need” it but the risks are much greater to take me off of it now – because I have made it this far why screw anything up and be able to second guess medicine. I agreed, so we will continue to same amount like always 1- 40 mL shot a night. He states that I continue until this until week 34.

He tends to believe that my troubles/menstrual cycles,m/c, etc are more due to the P.CO.S., and not the Anti-cardiolipin antibodies (because I started the drugs so late) or ho.moc.ysteine. He stated of course it is a compound issue and makes it seem impossible and complex (or in his words “a doozy”) but it seems to be manageable which we are doing.

So based on all of the above: The ho.moc.ysteine, the P.C.O.S, abnormal Anti-cardiolipin antibodies, and being larger women: Here is the new and latest possible diagnosis that he
is slightly concerned with: Pre.ecla.mps.ia.


The only thing about that is that the signs are basically h.igh b.loo.d p.ress.ure. Well, that is one thing that I do not have. My Bp is usually 112/59-118/72 ish. So I hope that it continues to remain normal. I plan on adding more fresh veggies in my diet to help with the folic acid which should help maintain my weight which will hopefully help maintain my pcos and keep me away from the pr.eecla.mpsi.a. PHEW, lots of technical terms – sorry If your face hit the keyboard out of boredom - as always - if you have questions or comments - please feel free to ask away or email me

On the good part – We got to have an u/s for 2 hours and 15 mins while they measures, checked, rechecked, re-measured and showed us and re-showed us boy parts!

30 comments:

Anonymous said...

Wow, lots of things to keep straight there! I'm glad it's all looking good so far. Sounds like you have a great plan in place to keep the pre-eclampsia in check.

Kristen said...

How great to see your little man for over 2 hours!

I'm sorry about all the concerns your doctor has. It sounds like you have a good plan for preventing Pre-E and doing what you can to keep yourself healthy.

You're doing an awesome job so far so I just wanted to say I'm proud of you! XOXO

Anonymous said...

I am so relieved and happy that you've finally got a good doctor on your team!!! And although he's added more to the list, at least he's made other things already on the list less important. yay!

And of course hooray for the super long u/s!!!

C said...

My goodness, so much stuff in one post! I think I'll have to go back and re-read it all to take it all in.

I'm so glad Dr. Wonderful is taking good care of you. Even if it is technical stuff do deal with.

I'll keep you in my prayers that the bp stays down. You're doin' great:)

niobe said...

It's good to hear that you and your doctor are keeping careful tabs on all the possible trouble spots. I'm hopeful everything will continue to go well...

My_Herstory said...

2 hrs eh? Wow, awesome! It sounds like your Dr is really good. Happy for you about that! Hoping all continues to go well for you!

Stephanie said...

Wow that was a lot of information. I'm glad the visit went well and that Dr. Wonderful is so wonderful. Yay for more images of the baby boy!

T-Mommy said...

Keep up the good work taking care of yourself to avoid complications, you are doing it great already!!!

Congrats on the loooong u/s!

Kathy V said...

I am glad Dro Wonderful was able to explain some of the confusing things. It also sounds like Dr Wonderful was able to give you enough information to ask intelligent questions. Even though you were trying to get more information, that is probably why you felt more confused at first. It was nice that they let you see the little guy for so long. Glad you have a plan to ward off any potential problems. Sounds like things went well at the appointment.

Polka Dot said...

Truly a lot to take in!

Your dx is the same as mine - only my homocystein levels were actually normal. My RE expected them to be low, as they usually are, but they weren't. Seems the mthfr issue really boiled down to the clotting.

I'm glad Dr Wonderful was able to lay it out and put some of your fears to rest. Maybe now you can start to enjoy this pregnancy more!

Lollipop Goldstein said...

Hey, sweetie, I actually love your avatar.

I think MTHFR is the only clotting disorder not treated with Lovenox--just folic acid and baby aspirin.

It sounds like a really good plan is in place. Though I just wish it could be easy. Yay for the long ultrasound!

Courtney said...

That is one L-O-N-G ultrasound! I'm glad that HE looks so great, and that you are doing so well with everything! I hope that pre-eclampsia stays far, far away!!!

Mazzy said...

What a load of information. I have never even heard of most of the stuff you mentioned. Do you feel like a medical genius yet? Your doctor sounds wonderful, though, and I am so glad you like him! Are you and hubby tossing around boy names yet??!!

Jess said...

I love that your avatar got herself a baby bump! I am glad you have a doc you feel comfortable who is on your side!

christina(apronstrings) said...

MTHFR is def. treated with lovonex or heparin(basically the same thing).
i am glad that you are getitng the treatment you deserve.
xoxoxo

Anonymous said...

Love the name change & graphic & avatar!!! I am so happy that you're able to really get into it all, now!!! <3

Searching said...

I'm glad everything went well for you and your son. Sounds like it was a good, informative appt. You are a wonderful mommy, doing all the things you need to do.

Jen said...

Sounds like you all have a good plan ahead of you! Congrats on the little boy!!!

LIW (Lady In Waiting) said...

I can see why you are feeling a bit overwhelmed. But I am happy to hear about this Dr. - you are clearly in great hands now!! And hopefully you will be able to avoid pre-eclampsia!!

CONGRATULATIONS on the fact that the baby is a boy and that he is perfectly healthy!!!

XOXOXO

Yetty said...

good beat!! drink plenty of water. I can almost swear by it.

RBandRC said...

A 2-hour view, huh? I must admit...I'm jealous. I swear I never understood Tom Cruise for buying and u/s machine until now. If I could have one once a week (or every day) I would. So sad.

I'm sorry to hear that your doctor has so many concerns, but I'm glad to hear that they are being so proactive with everything. It sounds like you're in good hands.

HUGS.

Cajun Cutie said...

A boy, wow. I am still surprised. Love the new avatar. Does this mean I can send mini vann a present? I have been holding off, but as you know I am so frickin excited!

Topcat said...

Sorry I'm a little late in the congratulations ...... but YOU'RE HAVING A BOY!!!! Yay, that's just wonderful Farah!!

Much love. xox

peesticksandstones said...

I'm loving your new avatar!

Congrats on the little man.

tobacco brunette said...

Your doctor does sound truly wonderful, which is amazing. Don't you think it's really hard to find competent and compassionate medical care. Your plan sounds well thought out and I'm glad you're getting good care.

A 2+ hours u/s sounds amazing! Definitely worth the trip, I'd say.

Anonymous said...

Yay!!! *happy dance*

K said...

I'm so glad you got some answers and a 2! hour long u/s. And a boy post right before this one. SO excited for that!!!!

Heather said...

Yay for good doctors!! I was also concerned about pre-e since I also have PCOS. but my BP has stayed low!! I hope yours does as well!

Dr. Grumbles said...

Mini Vann is still a boy! Yay!

Love the new Yahoo avatar, BTW!

Unknown said...

I am glad you got some answers! Yeah for a boy!!!!