Went to see Dr K today. She said my cervix had gone from 4 to 2.5 to 2.7 to 3. What does this mean? I am 22 weeks - is 3 good, bad or indifferent? She asked about how much I am resting, how many hours I am working etc. I didn't lie. 36 hours from Monday to Wednesday. Lots of stress and a bucket load of running around.
She went off at me, in her own way. As she should. What was I thinking! I am old, pregnant and with twins. Damn, I need to rethink my approach. I am supposed to go to Chicago to give a speech and 'work' a conference. This could be a great way to build business which we really need right now. Do I go? Can I send someone in my place?
I guess my question is about the cervix length. What's the deal??
Oh my, she didn't tell you what it means?
ReplyDeleteI only know that it sounds like your cervix is shortening a little bit which I believe is not such a good sign.
I think you might want to talk to the doc again and I don't think you should be going to any conference- and maybe working from your couch?
I know that's a bummer - I hope others or your doc has more info.
What kind of rest did she suggest?
I didn't personally have a shortening cervix, but my best friend is 30 weeks now with a single baby and her cervix is measuring 3, too. Her doctor said that the 3 length was the minimum of normal range (which I think she said was 3-5...and I think this is measured in cm). My friend was not put on bed rest but was told to take it easy and rest a lot. She went in b/c she was having a little bleeding. It sounded to me like as long as it stays at 3, it's fine. Eventually, when you're in labor, it'll shorten and thin considerably for the babies to come out. I imagine if it shortens much more your doc will want you to rest more. Did she say no Chicago/trips?
ReplyDeleteNothing is worth risking your twins. I wouldn't go to CHicago and I would limit my work to home, if at all possible. I know it's not the easiest thing to do, but I think it's best to take it easy. You've worked too hard to get to this point. I agnoized over my decision to go out at 30 weeks. After all, I'm so responsible and professional...blah blah blah. Know what? I've worked too damn hard to get to this point to risk losing them. The company will always be there. At this time, you need to take care of yourself.
ReplyDeleteAs someone who has an incompetent cervix, which was diagnosed at 16w6d and resulted in an emergency cerclage and 5 months + 1 wk of bed rest, I can say that 3 cm is minimal acceptable length for no intervention. The issue, as I see it, is not in the length itself, but in its relative shortening.
ReplyDeleteI would have another conversation with your doctor, ask what additional cervical surveillance (if any) she intends to do, and/or ask for weekly follow ups to ensure there is no additional shortening or funneling.
I am in no way trying to alarm you, but also know that in most cases, incompetent cervix is diagnosed after a loss (which generally occur prior to 24 weeks), and I agree with others not to risk a thing (which means take it easy, rest when you can, and do not go to Chicago).
STAY HOME! You are not the only person who can do this trip, and if it doesn't happen at all it isn't the end of the world. THAT would involve premature labor. PLEASE take it easy - you have TWO babies in there and you don't want them getting any ideas about getting out early!
ReplyDeleteSounds like the doc wasn't forthcoming enough, get the real scoop. Do what it takes to cut back to 40/hrs week and set yourself up at home for part of it. This will allow you to keep working longer anyway. Make a fuss, be a baby about it, now is the time to insist on this. Good luck!