Re: preemie-l Preparing for a Second Baby
Jackiemark@aol.com
Thu, 13 Jun 1996 11:34:39 -0400
When we decided to have a 2nd child after the 1st was a preemie, we spoke
with our OB who "assurred" us that the chances of a 2nd preemie we minor
because Laura's prematurity was due to a knot in her umbilical cord and the
chance of that happening again was small. We went ahead and got pregnant
again and sure enough I went into premature labor at 30 weeks as I had done
with Laura. This time we were able to stop the contractions and I held on to
the baby until 33 weeks (thanks to lots of drugs, hospital visits and
prayers) and we then induced because of fetal distress. Whereas Laura was
3lbs at birth, David was 6lbs! After 2 extremely difficult pregancies my
husband and I decided to shut down the baby factory. While I am glad to have
had Laura and David, I could not risk a 3rd potential preemie.
The good news is that after having your first preemie you have gone through
the drill and if you have a 2nd one at least you are more experienced
although it doesn't lessen the heartache. Don't let the fear of a 2nd preemie
stop you from having the family you want.
My thoughts are with you !
Jackie
Mom to Laura - 30 week gestation now 4.5 and David - 3 yrs going on 6 !