My most recent ultrasound revealed not only Baby Boy #5, but also what the doctors believe is truly going on in there. The baby is healthy and free from any kind of entanglement, which was the worry at my previous ultrasound. The latest word is that I have this:
Synechiae:
(also known as “amniotic sheets” or “amniotic folds”)
A synechia is a term meaning an “adhesion”, or a fibrous scar. Uterine synechiae have also been referred to as “amniotic sheets” or “amniotic folds”. Many patients with sonographically demonstrable uterine synechia have clinical history of uterine instrumentation (voluntary termination, D&C) or uterine infections to explain scar formation. However, it is not unusual to encounter patients with a synechia in whom any relevant past history is lacking. Most commonly, uterine synechiae are noted as an incidental finding on obstetric sonograms. In general, synechiae do not interfere with the development and growth of pregnancy, and are rarely associated with any complications. There is some evidence to suggest that large synechiae may be the cause of malpresentation due to partial compartmentalization of the uterine cavity, and may also be associated with lower birth weight. Visualization of a band-like structure should not be confused with amniotic band syndrome especially when thorough fetal anatomy survey reveals no structural anomalies.
Because I’ve had three D&Cs and one c-section, it is no surprise I have scarring. I have another ultrasound scheduled in five weeks. The scarring has caused a small “corner” of the placenta to attach like a finger to another part of my uterine wall. If you click on the link, you’ll see ultrasound photos of what this looks like.
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I have been feeling the baby move for several weeks. First, the flooping and the sensation of an internal blush. Then came more insistent taps no stronger than a flick of a bunny’s ear. The movements have grown stronger, but I hadn’t been able to feel the baby with my hand until very early in the morning, this past Saturday. The moment came in the form of three little knocks
I love feeling the baby, but of course I can find a way to worry about this delightful gift. If it’s been too long between our little communications, I begin obsessing. I am still at the point where the baby is small and unreliable. You’d never ask him to collect your mail and feed your dog while you go on vacation. But I ask for small thumps and teeny high fives through my too-thick layer of tummy-padding, constantly. When it doesn’t meet my standards, I am miserable. The baby can’t grow without extended periods of rest, so I should take spans of quiet as signs he is working on building bones and perfecting dimples. I’m not even 20 weeks yet, but I expect him to act like a 30-weeker who shakes tummies and entertains crowds.
I still have my doppler, but I don’t want to overuse it. When I am tempted to drag it out, I try all the get-baby-to-move tricks. One little flutter is enough to satisfy me. Sometimes.
It could be gas.
My current in utero is not much of a mover. If I tried to gauge her health by kicks I would go mad.
I hope all goes well for you. Saying prayer right now.
I’ve actually never heard of that, but it totally makes sense with your history. Praying for a healthy and worry-free pregnancy for you. 🙂
Karen {simply a musing blog}’s last blog post..Photoshop Fun – Karen Finds a new Plug-in
I say just spank that baby’s little bottom whenever he makes his mama worry.
Anonymouse’s last blog post..multiplicity
Now that was a technical read.
I’m glad everything is going well.
Keep growing those perfect dimples little man but don’t forget to give your mom some spunk to let her know you are doing well.
Heth’s last blog post..Cover Your Eyes
Anja was a KICKER. Never a moment’s rest for me. I think now, after having her on the outside for almost a year, I would be more thankful for that second time around. But who knows what next baby’s personality will be…or if God will even bless me with a “next.”
Praying that little guy will be obedient to his mama’s proddings and that his mama will have peace!
Minnesotamom’s last blog post..Apparently all that fried chicken ain’t doin? no good
i love feeling the movement and taps too. it’s so reassuring.
chickadee’s last blog post..My partying days are over
Oh I am so glad all is ok! I know just what you mean about movement. This pregnancy of all, due to too many people close to me having losses in the past few months, has had me a nervous wreck at times, but she always does a little jab or kick at just the right time. Whew.
Steph
Adventures In Babywearing’s last blog post..Your Babywearing Questions, Part 2
Oh gretchie poo! That is fabulous news! I’m sorry I lied, I said I would never call you that again. I’m sorry.
I’m so happy the baby apears to be happy and healthy! YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Congrats on baby boy #5.
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Heehee, before you know it, he’ll be at that age where just when you lay down to sleep he’ll decide it’s party time! Then he’ll be kicking and rolling and you won’t be able to sleep. That happened to me. My daily activity, walking around the house cleaning, etc. lulled Ethan to sleep. And then, when I would go to bed and lay down and be still, he would WAKE UP and have all kinds of fun in there. I’m praying for you and your baby boy 🙂
Ann’s last blog post..Finding My Voice
I’ll bet the 20 weeker is entertaining the masses.
Joanne’s last blog post..Democratic National Convention
I’m glad it’s better news than you feared, definitely, and I’m praying that you and your baby boy have a trouble-free pregnancy
Beck’s last blog post..A Pot Pourri Of Stupid Stuff
So glad that things continue to look good. I am so happy that your newest son is listening to Mommy already by acting up on cue! 😉
Dawn’s last blog post..New Articles
I am glad to hear at least there is one less thing to worry about.
That’s a relief?
So scientific!!
Well, the first half at least. As for the 2nd half, I worried as a mom who never had losses, I cannot imagine your worry. You are in my prayers and I hope that that baby gets to kicking you all the time!!!
wow, those pictures are kind of scary. I’m glad it’s not anything to worry about.
I know what you mean about the baby kicks. Babies need to have more ESP so they kick when you want reassurance, and sleep when you want to sleep! lol
Gretchen (the other other one!)’s last blog post..More Fun with Widgets!
I’m glad the prognosis is good, and congratulations on a baby girl!
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I am very happy to hear that your little blessing is doin’ fine and there’s one less thing to worry over, pregnancy has plenty of things to worry about.
I just had a baby in April and I obsessed over fetal kick counts. I would have myself all worried and stressed and then, when he got ready he would move. Oh, how those little bits can keep us worrying even before birth.
I pray for peace for you. I know I needed someone praying for me. 🙂
Valerie’s last blog post..Helmet Hair
Glad to hear it’s not as bad as the initial report, but I will continue to pray nonetheless. And maybe, as this little guy grows and his movements become stronger, he will turn out to be a real gymnast so that you don’t have an extra worry. 🙂
Glad that baby is healthy. It is SO comforting when they start to move more often.
Thanks for sharing,
Heidi
Butterfly Mama’s last blog post..Just call me Queen of the Squash
Oh, my, I know it’s better news than the original, but it’s still just something I KNOW would keep me up at night. I pray for your peace, Gretchen! And for the health and safety of peanut…I just know he’s going to put all he has into those dimples.
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What a relif! I am sure it is still hard not to worry. You need rest too!
Happy Mommy’s last blog post..My Summer Vacation
Congratulations on a boy. And I’m glad you have more information now.
An internal blush…that’s such a perfect description.
Beth – total mom haircut’s last blog post..Art Time
You’ve been in my prayers all summer. I’m so happy to hear all is well. Viability is so close! I always hold my breath until about week 27 having suffered losses too. You’ll make it, I’m sure!
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