Mom-31...Jaxon-34

weeks that is...Today was another Dr's appointment. Our appointment that had been scheduled for last Friday was bumped by an emergency c-section (which is why there was no post last week...sorry if you missed us)  But what we did find out today is that Jaxon is still measuring ahead of schedule-this was done by measuring my belly this time, no ultrasound today.  The belly measurements are taken from the top of the pubic bone to the fundus (the top of the uterus).  This measurement should be as many centimeters as weeks of gestation.  So I have been pregnant for 31 weeks and should measure 31 cm.  However today I was measuring 34+ cm.  Justin and I spent a lot of time with the midwife today picking her brain on what she thinks is going to happen delivery wise.  She told us that we would continue to track Jax' growth through measurements and ultrasounds (we have an ultrasound next Thursday and another in 3 weeks).  The next ultrasound will give us his "growth trend" which just means it will tell us if he is continuing to grow at the same rate as he has been.  The BIG one is going to be the ultrasound that will be done at around 35 weeks.  This will be the deciding picture.  If at this point in time he is still measuring ahead of schedule and by all measurements appears to be weighing in at 7-8 lbs, she will strongly recommend a scheduled induction at 37 weeks (close to the 10th of March) or we can opt for a c-section at 38 weeks (the week of the 16th).  She believes that this little boy will be coming sooner rather than later!! Which means that we have about 6 weeks until baby day!

Justin and I are researching and weighing our options as we try to determine the path that will lead to the safest delivery of our boy.  And to put your minds at ease about the possibility of him coming early--babies born between 37-40 weeks are considered full term babies.  Those that are born between 34-37 weeks generally do not have any long term health issues and most won't spend any time (or very little) in a neonatal unit.  

Just a little Jax FYI- if he were truly a 34 week baby, he would be weighing in at 4 3/4 lbs (but he's already surpassed that) and measuring at about 18 inches.  His central nervous system and lungs continue to mature as he puts on more weight.  He is supposed to be gaining about an ounce a day at this point in the pregnancy!

We'll keep you posted as we can! Look for ultrasound pictures next week!

much love, 

Justin, Robin and Jaxon