Calm me down, please

AMShark

I'm 24w2d today. Still on hospital bed rest for PPROM that started at 20w1d. Every 12 hours I get fetal Doppler checks, & then I go on the contraction monitor for an hour.

Last night the monitor picked up 1 contraction. I didn't notice when it happened & the doctor wasn't concerned, so I wasn't too concerned either.

This morning, when I went to the bathroom, there was blood in the toilet. There was no blood on the giant maternity pad I was wearing (I leak fluid at night & sometimes during the day, so i always wear the pads).

So, now I'm hooked up to the dopplers & the contraction monitor, lying on my back, surrounded by stuffed cats.

Every thread I open on my BMB somehow makes me sad. (I was crying at a thread about funny onesies, 'fer chrisssakes).

What to do to calm down?

Also, today was the day to change that little quick IV set up thingy back to my right arm, but now there's sort of a needle on my wrist & I can't really bend it properly to hold my knitting needles - knitting was my first idea to calm down.

AMShark

I think I'm gonna start a fur baby Friday thread.

southernyankeegirl

Oh geez scary! First, the good news - you are past viability and have had two steroid shots, meaning both of your babies would have a really good prognosis if things got moving.

Second, those machines cannot distinguish between a Braxton Hicks and a normal contraction. They cannot tell you how intense the contraction is, just that it happened (I am assuming this is a belly monitor?). At 24 weeks, it would be very typical to have a few Braxton Hicks now and again. That doesn't change your cervix, and as long as they don't keep coming and getting more intense shouldn't pose a risk to your babies. Your doctor will have more specific answers for you, though.

As for the bleeding, I don't know and couldn't begin to guess. All sorts of fluids come out during pregnancy, and it's really hard to know when or what is normal. Again, the doctor hopefully has answers and can rule out bigger issues. Thankfully you're in the hospital already and can be monitored fully. If your babies start having issues, you'll have all the information and resources to make the best choice for your family. I hope beyond hope you never face a tough Sophie's Choice dilemma.

Huge hugs!!!!

turquoisequeen

I'm so sorry you are dealing with this. Can you watch something funny to calm down? Maybe YouTube jimmy Fallon episodes. He always has hilarious games and things he does with his guests. The Bradley Cooper episode was a good one and so was the one with Kevin Spacey.

T&Ps! I hope the dr reassures you soon.

AMShark

Thanks @southernyankeegirl‌ - that was helpful to read. It is just a belly monitor.

I'm considering whether I should call DH, or just wait until he calls or comes by later. I don't want to panic him for no reason.

The babies heartbeats sound good, so that's reassuring.

Also , I'm going to really hate this needle on the side of my wrist. It was so much less noticeable when it was higher up on my arm. It pinches here - boo.

pblge

Argh. I really want you to have a nice long period of calm/boringness--about three months' worth sounds pretty good to me! I don't know how much I can say that will be helpful, but I had a little bit of blood this week, and the nurse told me it really is nothing to worry about. I've since read that some nurses tell patients not to even call if it's under a teaspoon. You situation might be different, though, but hopefully it's nothing major.

I bet you could ask for them to move your IV. They could put it in so many places, why does it have to prevent the knitting??

When is the next time you'll talk to a doctor? DRINK UP, lady!!

daydreamernyc

Totally understand the needle thing. Whenever I have an IV I feel frozen, like I don't want to move at all. I would second the suggestion of watching something funny. Do you have an iPad or a tv with on demand or something? Maybe you can find a good movie?

And concentrate on all the good indicators. You aren't feeling anything, heartbeats are great, you reached an important milestone, you are under great care, etc.  I would feel comforted by the fact that you are at the hospital, even though I'm sure overall it could add a bit more stress just because it's more formal. Keep us updated please!!!   

Oh and you should be getting one of those delicious hospital meals pretty soon, the ones that are growing on you 

kmc84

Ditto to @southernyankeegirl

Absolutely ask to have the IV moved! I had patients ask all the time when they came through the ER since the ER always puts them AC and then people can't bend their arm!  It's not a silly request at all, especially in your situation.  You should be as comfortable as possible.  If they are busy, moving a good IV isn't a priority, but someone should be able to get to it today.

Try and watch something funny.  Any guilty pleasure movies?  Are you able to play any interactive online games? 

It may also be a good time to call your friend with the ice cream key

jessimi06

First of all I would ask to have the IV moved, especially if it's uncomfortable. Plus you'll be able to knit which will give you something to do.

@southernyankeegirl‌ has great advice as usual! I second PP advice of watching something funny to help get your mind off things.

If you want DH there and think that it would help, I wouldn't hesitate to call him.

I'm sorry you've through the ringer and hope you'll be able to get some answers from the Dr soon.

alpCRNA

I'm sorry you are going through this.  Since you are likely going to be in the hospital for a long time, you could request a PICC line.  Regular IVs have to be changed every 3-4 days.  A PICC (peripherally inserted central catheter) goes in your upper arm and can stay in as long as you need it.  There is also something called a midline, which looks just like a PICC but its not actually a central line and can only stay in for 4 weeks.  In my hospital, we place these lines at the bedside.  It really saves the patients from being stuck over and over.  It would also let you knit!  If you would like more information on these PM me and I'll give you the whole spiel I give patients.

AMShark

Thank you, ladies! I'm going to keep the IV needle for the morning & see if I get used to it, or if it really is too annoying. I think I'm also extra sensitive right now.

It isn't helping that it's really started snowing hard now. I don't want DH driving here in a panic, but I also don't want to wait until the roads get really bad & then suddenly, it's an emergency. Stupid snow.

gsancho

Oooh @kmc84, ice cream for breakfast sounds good, now.  

Other gave good advice.  Did they say anything about the blood?  Maybe just check for UTI?  With just the one contraction reading and you not feeling anything, it sounds like nothing major.  But you cry it out whenever you need to without feeling bad about it!  

hopeby2015

Can't add more than what was already stated but hope things get more comfortable and that the bleed was a minor thing that isn't a big deal! GL!

Edited - spelling/grammar

mrs.willie

I'm sorry you're dealing with this. If the dr hasn't come in yet, hopefully he does soon and can reassure you. I would also ask if they're able to move the IV. Sounds like it'll interfere with just about eveything where it is. If you decide you don't want to have DH come until he planned to later, maybe just calling him and talking to him will help. Do they have a chaplain who comes around? When I was sick and stuck in the hospital for a week 3 hours away from home (DH had to take DS home and come back a few days later), the chaplain came around. At first I was thinking oh just go away and leave me alone, but it ended up being nice having someone to chat with and comforting.

ronniesgirl1981

I've been keeping tabs on you and I am so sorry for the scare. Have you listened the the Serial podcast? In full disclosure, I haven't either but it is supposed to be absolutely addictive. It's about a Baltimore murder and questions about the prosecution. You might be able to get preoccupied by it.... https://serialpodcast.org

DSculley1824

All PPs have given such great advice! I just want to send my support to you! I totally get the needle thing. I would be so distracted! If it bothers you any worse than now def request them to change placement. That will be one less thing for you to worry about.

Google lots of things on YouTube! You could do funny animal videos, animals being jerks, animals react to owners coming home from deployments, etc. Since you mentioned wanting to do a furbaby Friday I assume you love animals!

Also, as for DH...you know your body and mentality. If you think him being there would make you feel better then call him! Again, don't stress over something you have the decision to make. Try to make things simple for you and go with your gut on choices.

FX you start to feel better and the doctor gives you reassurance! Thinking of you

AMShark

Thanks everyone, for the suggestions.

The OB came by for a speculum exam ( approved by my MFM). He said it didn't look like I was dilating and the bleeding isn't heavy, but it's still present. So, we're not sure what it is, but least we ruled out a big one.

I talked to DH (& then FaceTimed my kitties ). I told him to wait until later to come by, but I let him know about the bleeding.

I has had a little freak out this morning & I started crying in front of the nurse because I couldn't teach my breakfast tray without twisting, but apparently , twisting was moving one of the heart rate monitors, & I couldn't move the tray table, of sit the way they wanted me to (or of anything at all right - at least that's how it felt). So that's me - I wait for something Really important to come along ( like a blueberry muffin) before I break down in embarrassing, snotty tears.

On the bright side, it looks like the snow has stopped. On the less bright side, they just cleaned the bed next to me because I'm getting another roommate soon - and I'm just in a bad mood, so I am not the ideal roommate right now.

1220winterbride

ronniesgirl1981 said:

I've been keeping tabs on you and I am so sorry for the scare. Have you listened the the Serial podcast? In full disclosure, I haven't either but it is supposed to be absolutely addictive. It's about a Baltimore murder and questions about the prosecution. You might be able to get preoccupied by it.... https://serialpodcast.org

I listened and I was more confused after and esp now that additional commentaries keep surfacing...it's not relaxing. anyway, FX you get lots of answers w/ happy, boring outcomes and a nice long bed rest for many weeks. Sorry your in a bad mood but please vent away! and glad the big one is ruled out!

Regan1976

Oh honey, don't feel bad about any amount of snotty tears at this point. You deserve every balled up Kleenex around you. You've been through a lot and still have so much more. Try to think only 1 or 2 steps ahead if it becomes to overwhelming. I agree with all the ladies to find something funny to watch. And don't be afraid to ask the nurses for help if you need it, even if it's to reach that muffin just a few inches to far away. Also if the hospital has counseling services available to you as a longer term patient, it might be good to talk your situation out just to get it off your mind. You are a strong person from all that I've seen and you need support to get through this. We will try to give you as much as we can but sometimes you just need an actual person to listen. A few tears don't make you weak, they firm you up to remain strong.

Pintobean39

I'm so sorry @AMShark‌. When I was in the hospital with my first because of a kidney infection they hooked me up to a monitor and it showed I was having contractions. I freaked out, because it was way to early and I was sick as a dog, really not in the mood to push a baby out. Come to find out it was Braxton hix and I just didn't know I'd been having them. My second son I felt them early on because I knew and so far with this one I've had a couple here and there. They are just your body preparing for birth, it's like it's doing the training for the marathon that will come up much later by strengthening those muscles. I'm glad the cervix looks good and you aren't dilating. Hang in there, you are doing such a good job keeping those babies nice and cozy. I hope your day gets better and if you are bound to have a roommate hopefully she's not that annoying.

kmc84

You're allowed to be a bad mood! We can't be sunshine and rainbows all the time! This too shall pass

I'm sure you're not the first one to cry over a blueberry muffin It does seem that the mundane will bring out the tears in difficult situations!

mrs.willie

Sorry you're getting another roommate soon. Hope they can at least help provide some entertainment. You're allowed to cry anytime you want. I cried so many times when I was stuck in there and I'm sure a lot more things would make me cry if it were for the same situation as you. I hope your day gets better! Keep checking out the furbaby thread and snuggle with your stuffed kitties.

MissEm15

I can't speak to the blood, but hopefully this will make u feel a little better... I've been having contractions since 26w (that I've known about). Some hours I'll have 1-2, some I'll have 7.. But I have them everyday. I've been in the hospital for three weeks now so I'm monitored like you are. They all don't hurt & my cervix is still unchanged from 26w to now at almost 36w. Drink a lot of water & lay on ur left side! You are doing great! My friends told me to check out serial too.. They are addicted.

MissEm15

Double post, sorry!

pblge

Ugh, sorry the bleeding is ongoing. I think you're totally entitled to crying fits and bad moods. Glad you're not dilated and that all else appears calm.

lib1974

@amshark Sorry you are having some a hard time! I hope this go get better soon. Also, fur baby friday is an awesome idea!

katers79

I'm so sorry you're having a rough day. I'm glad to hear everything's looking ok though. And I'm SURE the RN didn't think a thing about the muffin episode. Pregnancy is emotional, esp when you're stuck in the hospital, having a rotten day, and HANGRY! All the ((hugs)) to you.

BeckyP005

Sending you big huge hugs sweetie!!! Hang in there but I know it's hard!!

mdiblasi10

I am so sorry you are having a tough day. What you are going through is hard so bad moments and days are going to happen. You're doing great! Do you read? A really good book takes my mind somewhere else and that might be just what you need. Big hugs.

rella22

Just caught up with everything. @southernyankeegirl‌ was right on with her post! So nothing more to say other than cry whenever the hell you want!! These are one of the few times you can act any way you want and have a perfect excuse!! Take advantage of it!! And hopefully your roommate minds her business today and always

kmc84

Any of Chelsea Handler's books are very entertaining! Raunchy, but funny!

I LOVED the Hunger Games and Gone Girl.

Justone13

I'm sorry you are having such a sucky day. I think that hearing both heartbeats is very reassuring. I don't have much to add that wasn't already mentioned so I figured I'd send you some fun kitty gif's since you were looking for some fluff.... sending my t&p to you! 

 

shelbeans82

I hope the rest of your day went better ((hugs))

ky29

So sorry you've had a rough day! Hopefully you found a good distraction. And you have every right to get upset over things! Don't feel bad. Big hugs!!

gsancho

I hope the rest of your day was better!  You're not still having to do work, are you?

@katemonster1 I always see people talk about Gilmore Girls too, which is funny b/c I was good friends with Kim (aka Alexis) Bledel in high school.  But I couldn't watch too much of the show.  I guess since I knew her, it was just too weird...plus, by that point we were in college which seemed a little out of the GG demo.  But yeah, that's my claim to fame - we were friends until she got super private and cut all ties to her old HS buddies.  

luvboston

Sorry your having a rough day! Hugs

Sunny B

Hang in there! You're doing a great job. Sometimes you can just bubble over with emotion. The blueberry muffin just pushed it all over the edge!

fjamil1

Thinking of you!

lebradford

I'm thinking about you too! I hope your IV is more comfortable, and you are with your husband or asleep or relaxing.

I would have cried about that freaking muffin too, just for the record....

BabyKsMommy

I'm sorry you are having contractions. I also did too but they never really did anything. I also had bleeding as well. They thought it was from a placental abruption but it stopped. So I'm hoping that for you these two things turn out to be minor and are just little speed bumps.

I know it's hard telling DH whether to come/stay the night at the hospital in case the babies come. My DH ended up missing the birth of our twins and I went through the c-section alone. It kinda sucked but I made it through and I know you could do it too if you have to.

If you need to have an immediate c-section and DH isn't there I probably wouldn't tell him too much but just calmly say that he needs to come and you are going to have the babies. That was one of the best things I could've done. Because if I felt he was rushing to the hospital it would've given me something else to worry about at an already stressful time.

Have you tried watching Orange is the New Bl.ack? It's a Net.flix original series and I really liked it. On bedrest I finished both seasons in 2 days, it was quite addicting.

AMShark

I hate my phone. I just finger typed a long novel of a post - and somehow pasted over the entire thing with a YouTube URL as I went back in to fix a typo before sending.

I think I'll wait until I set up my laptop later.

I might cry again now.