The Roller Coaster to 37 Weeks

Since stopping work a few weeks ago, I feel like I have been riding an emotional roller coaster.  Every three days I venture to the doctor for a NST (non stress test) and ultrasound to check on the baby's movement and amniotic fluid levels.  Last Thursday the nurse practitioner measured the fluid level at 4.7 cubic centimeters.  She had the doctor come in to do another measurement, which is when I felt the baby move.  The doctor then found 6.5 cubic centimeters.  She was concerned about the erratic measurements though so she scheduled another appointment on Saturday for a check-in.  This appointment was at the hospital where the baby will be delivered, which is one of the best in southern California and directly connected to the children's hospital.  At this point, I was ready for whatever and had accepted it.  However, on Saturday, the baby passed all tests with flying colors.  She moved enough in the first 10 minutes during the NST to assure doctors in that area (although they continued to monitor for 20+ minutes).  Then the doctor measured 9 cubic centimeters of amniotic fluid.  My husband and I left feeling reassured that things were, in fact, ok.  Yesterday, I had another check-up and the NST was fine, but the fluid measurement was a 5.6.  These ups and downs in measurements leave my emotions all over the place.  We have another appointment on Friday.  If the fluid is measured below a 5 by all the doctors involved, induction is the option.  I fear this.  I've heard it is very painful and that Pitocin will be necessary to start contractions.  The extra pain often causes the need for an epidural- something else I am trying to avoid.  I hope to do everything naturally and am still holding onto this vision.  I am trying to stay positive and keep the greater goal in mind.  However, a safe and healthy baby is the most important thing for everyone, so this is the course we will pursue when it comes down to D-day.  Tomorrow we will be at the 37 week mark so at least this is good news.   

Here is a belly shot taken a few days ago at 3.5 weeks to go:

I remain at home resting and drinking tons of fluids, waiting to go to the next appointment.  40 weeks can not come quickly enough at this point!