It's All Fun and Games
Another day of fun. I thought the drama ended with the CVS nightmare, as my second trimester has been a breeze. I could do without drama. Drama is exhausting and not in an 'I'm burning calories efficiently' kind of way.
This morning I was informed in no uncertain terms that I would not be going home today. The doctor is leaning towards not doing fluid removal surgically, as there's already a lot going on in there. But this means I'm set up for recurrent kidney infections for the remainder of this pregnancy.
The infection isn't clearing up-I can't wee much (my fluid intake/output is way, way off) and I'm pretty uncomfortable. And this morning we had high drama. I was walking from the shower when a Baxton-Hicks contraction hit. But the contraction led to screaming cramps inmy uterus as well as blinding back pain. It didn't go away.
I asked for some paracetamol, but the ward was chaos this morning-women going in to labor right and left.
By the time they came to me I was writhing in agony and asked again for paracetamol and apologized for being a pain during so much action.
They later told me I was one of the most polite and apologetic dramas they've had.
They took a look at me and suddenly I was surrounded by people. They were sure I was in labor, to the extent they even booked me a bed in L&D. I am 26 weeks 2 days. Going into labor now would be very bad indeed.
Then they couldn't find the Lemonheads' heartbeats.
My blood pressure skyrocketed as I went into a freefall panic.
They got a scanner in and lo and behold, there were my babies waving at the screen, hearts beating merrily. The doctor checked my cervix and it's still closed. It turns out my lovely son (the CVS baby, the calm one I'm trying not to think of as my problem child) is pressing hard on my urethra, so hard that they think it's causing urethra/kidney stones.
All that chaos, and it's stones.
I was finally given the grown-up painkillers, which combined with my adrenaline explosion, meant I slept a lot. The babies are knocked out too, which makes me nervous but there's no way I can face this pain unmedicated. Even with the meds the back pain and cramps persevere and it is pretty painful.
My bladder was so full and so unable to empty that they've recommended a catheter, but I'm resisting for now. Instead, I chose option 2-they told me to take a bath and pee in it. Eager to follow doctor advice and re-live my childhood, I confess I did just that (then showered, of course.).
I'm sorry if this is all a bit complain-y and dramatic. I'm not enjoying this at all (who would?) and I worry about the babies, but they're ok in there. That's what's important to me. I've found my priorities are so solely on family-the babies, Aidan, and his two kids-that I have a strong anchor in that Gloria Gaynor sense.
Jen and Malenka, your kidney stone/kidney infection comments meant a lot to me. Thanks for the reassurance, I really mean it.
So still hanging in there. Aidan is bringing me food and loads of support and TV is just about keeping me sane.
This morning I was informed in no uncertain terms that I would not be going home today. The doctor is leaning towards not doing fluid removal surgically, as there's already a lot going on in there. But this means I'm set up for recurrent kidney infections for the remainder of this pregnancy.
The infection isn't clearing up-I can't wee much (my fluid intake/output is way, way off) and I'm pretty uncomfortable. And this morning we had high drama. I was walking from the shower when a Baxton-Hicks contraction hit. But the contraction led to screaming cramps inmy uterus as well as blinding back pain. It didn't go away.
I asked for some paracetamol, but the ward was chaos this morning-women going in to labor right and left.
By the time they came to me I was writhing in agony and asked again for paracetamol and apologized for being a pain during so much action.
They later told me I was one of the most polite and apologetic dramas they've had.
They took a look at me and suddenly I was surrounded by people. They were sure I was in labor, to the extent they even booked me a bed in L&D. I am 26 weeks 2 days. Going into labor now would be very bad indeed.
Then they couldn't find the Lemonheads' heartbeats.
My blood pressure skyrocketed as I went into a freefall panic.
They got a scanner in and lo and behold, there were my babies waving at the screen, hearts beating merrily. The doctor checked my cervix and it's still closed. It turns out my lovely son (the CVS baby, the calm one I'm trying not to think of as my problem child) is pressing hard on my urethra, so hard that they think it's causing urethra/kidney stones.
All that chaos, and it's stones.
I was finally given the grown-up painkillers, which combined with my adrenaline explosion, meant I slept a lot. The babies are knocked out too, which makes me nervous but there's no way I can face this pain unmedicated. Even with the meds the back pain and cramps persevere and it is pretty painful.
My bladder was so full and so unable to empty that they've recommended a catheter, but I'm resisting for now. Instead, I chose option 2-they told me to take a bath and pee in it. Eager to follow doctor advice and re-live my childhood, I confess I did just that (then showered, of course.).
I'm sorry if this is all a bit complain-y and dramatic. I'm not enjoying this at all (who would?) and I worry about the babies, but they're ok in there. That's what's important to me. I've found my priorities are so solely on family-the babies, Aidan, and his two kids-that I have a strong anchor in that Gloria Gaynor sense.
Jen and Malenka, your kidney stone/kidney infection comments meant a lot to me. Thanks for the reassurance, I really mean it.
So still hanging in there. Aidan is bringing me food and loads of support and TV is just about keeping me sane.
So good to get an update! Even if the crisis isn't over, I'm relieved to hear more and to hear that you're still hanging in there.
Still thinking about you lots.
Posted by:BeachGirl | 27 July 2007 at 11:23 PM
thanks for the update...I know we in internet land are surely a low priority (imagine!). The Braxton Hicks episode sounded torturous...I'm glad they finally decided to give you the grown-up stuff.
Here's sending cooperation vibes to your body (specifically your bladder!). Take care of one another and please know that we're thinking of you.
Posted by:wn | 28 July 2007 at 12:23 AM
I am so relieved to hear from you, and glad things are at least moving along even if it requires peeing in the tub, I pee in my hot tub occasionally it feels sooo good, dont tell anyone tho@@@
Posted by:Cheryl | 28 July 2007 at 01:04 AM
Too bad there wasn't a pool to pee in... Now THAT brings back childhood... Not that I was ever the pee-er. Usually the Pee-ee, sadly enough.
I'm glad you're a little more comfortable with the grown-up meds and that the Lemonheads are swimming along perfectly. Probably laughing at you and the doctors from in there, biding their time (for at least 10 more weeks I hope!).....
Posted by:caltechgirl | 28 July 2007 at 01:05 AM
Oh, I'm so sorry that you're having to deal with this. Try not to worry about taking the meds - you need them and your babies will be fine. You need the rest and relief in order to heal.
Still praying and I'm so glad to know that my small little comment about my kidney stones helped a wee bit. You're not alone in this!
Posted by:jen | 28 July 2007 at 02:57 AM
Bugger, blast and damnation. I really hope the pain is manageable and that you are getting good advice and care. I know its not the same, but my friend recently had surgery to remove massive cysts on her ovaries, when she was 26 weeks pregnant. It was a desperately scarey time but both she and her baby are ok. Wishing you a speedy recovery and a gentle pat for the lemonheads!
Posted by:Sarah | 28 July 2007 at 04:27 AM
I've heard that the risk of kidney stones is higher in pregnancy, but OUCH! I could never have imagined.
Posted by:Tinker | 28 July 2007 at 05:00 AM
I appreciate the lengths you're going to for our reading pleasure, but really - enough with the drama! I am ready to be bored.
Bea
Posted by:Bea | 28 July 2007 at 08:14 AM
Dear Vanessa, I got my own little jolt of adrenaline when I read your story. But I'm so, so glad things are clearing up a little, and that the Lemonheads are all right. May the drama end for you soon.
Posted by:Kath | 28 July 2007 at 09:13 AM
I am so sorry things are getting worse. Hopefully you will get good care and recover soon. I am relieved to read that despite all the drama, the Lemonheads are doing fine. Keep us updated! All the best
Posted by:marie-baguette | 28 July 2007 at 10:03 AM
Oh V. I'm so sorry you're going through so much right now.
Thinking of all of you.
Posted by:April | 28 July 2007 at 02:38 PM
I'm thinking of you and the lemonheads. I had a catheter when I had my epidural and it wasn't nearly as bad as I thought it would be, so don't sweat it if it comes to that. I hope you are home soon.
Posted by:judi | 28 July 2007 at 06:03 PM
You're apologizing for complaining? Are you serious?!
I'm glad the babies still seem happy to stay put. Hang in there!
Posted by:Lut C. | 28 July 2007 at 09:31 PM
How scary for you - sounds really uncomfortable too - VERY glad it wasn't labour.
Posted by:katie | 28 July 2007 at 10:46 PM
Thinking of you and the babies. This sounds most unpleasant - and scary. I hope that the worst is behind you!
Posted by:ali | 29 July 2007 at 03:23 AM
ugh, vanessa sounds nasty. I do hope you're feeling a bit better today.
Posted by:thalia | 29 July 2007 at 12:09 PM
Left you a message on your mobile. I know the thought of the cath sounds icky, but it might make you feel better. Because seriously, not ever having to get up and pee? It's glorious. Peeing is for suckers.
Posted by:statia | 29 July 2007 at 07:51 PM
Hang in there. And, anytime for the reassurance. As you have found out, this sort of thing is absolutely terrifying. I wish someone had been able to tell me that even if the worst happened and they were born that early, that the chance everything would be okay were outstanding. I'm glad to hear they've got you on the grownup meds now.
Posted by:malenkka | 30 July 2007 at 06:27 AM
Vanessa, you are so un-complainy and un-dramatic, it's unbelievable. It really sounds like you're holding it together in an incredible way. From a reader sending you all good thoughts and hopes that things get under control very soon.
Posted by:jv | 30 July 2007 at 01:11 PM
Eek, sounds like things are finally getting better, I hope you start feeling better soon!!
Posted by:Erin | 30 July 2007 at 01:29 PM
Listen to Statia. And hope they decide to stent your offending ureter. Will relieve the obstruction and better clear the infection and relieve the pain. As I'm sure you have learned pregnant uteri have a great propensity to put pressure on ureters and cause obstruction. Please do not sleep on your back- can make the obstruction worse.
My best to you and your whole family.
Posted by:Foggy | 30 July 2007 at 01:43 PM
I don't know if I can say "whew" or not, but it feels like you are on your way to mending. Or like you have some really good care.
Sending you nothing but positive vibes and good thoughts that you will get to safely go home soon!
Posted by:canape | 30 July 2007 at 03:41 PM
hang in there!
Posted by:Sara | 30 July 2007 at 04:38 PM
sweet louise, i do believe that you have every right to be complaining about your situation. how brutal. i'm glad to hear that you're on some medication that is actually helping. i hope you're on your way out of there soon.
Posted by:megan | 30 July 2007 at 05:24 PM
So sorry to hear what you've been going through. Hang in there!
Posted by:Radish | 30 July 2007 at 09:16 PM