"Pack Your Bags"

Yep, those were the last words our doctor said to us as we left his office yesterday. YUCK.

They did some doppler studies of the babies' cords and placentas and found that little Tyler is still lagging behind his sisters. They didn't do any measurements for weight, so we're not really sure about his actual growth. We go back on Monday for more testing and ultrasounds, then they will admit me to the hospital for daily monitoring.

It sounds like they expect us to go another 2 weeks before we have to deliver. That would put us at 30 weeks, which isn't all that bad. They will spend significant time in the NICU (6+ weeks), but should do well long term. It's all very complicated, but we're navigating it as best we can. Here's how the doctor explained the situation: because of all the "stress" Tyler is currently under, his body is maturing quickly - he likened it to training for a marathon - he's working really hard right now. On the 0ther hand, the girls are just hanging out, relaxing on the couch, eating whenever they want. If we deliver early, Tyler should do well - he's prepared. The girls, however, are going to be yanked off their comfy couch without warning, and they will be the ones to have a harder time. The decision of when to deliver is not an easy one as you can imagine. There may come a time when Tyler becomes too stressed and his life is in danger - they will obviously deliver if this happens. Also, my blood pressure has been slowly creeping up due to Tyler's placenta, and it could spike at any time which would endanger all 4 of us and require an emergency cesarean. Whew - did you get all that?! Our brains are spinning from information overload!

So, now we start packing our bags! I wonder if they'll say anything if I bring Hartee with me!? I'll post more after our appointment next Monday - we're praying for a good report for all three babies!