When I arrived at the hospital, I had another ultrasound which revealed the same low levels as the last. However, it also showed that the baby is a fine size and all organs are in good shape, which is great news. I then spent some time doing a Non Stress Test (NST) to make sure the baby's heart was still beating regularly and that she was moving appropriately. After all this, the doctor concluded that the low fluid levels could be a result of one of two things: 1) dehydration, or 2) too much activity. We created a plan for treating dehydration first, hoping this would be issue. I drank at least a gallon of water a day, from Tuesday through Thursday. I then went in for another test and it revealed the same fluid levels. Therefore, the doctor concluded that I am doing too much and not resting enough. She told me that I am unable to continue my job at this point. She said that if we maintain the current fluid level, then the baby can probably make it to full term. However, if I start to loose fluid, there could be concerns and she might have to come early.
So, I am out of work 4+ weeks earlier than anticipated. This is going to be stressful financially, but we will make it work as a family. The most important thing is that Baby Honeydew has the best environment to finalize her growth. My students were disappointed to hear the news on Friday (especially with only one day's notice), but were so sweet in saying goodbye with big hugs and hopes of continued contact. My coworkers have been an amazing support throughout all of this as well. Substitute plans until mid-May are in the works.
Non Stress Test
(I hit the button when I feel her move.)
Doctor's Note
(No more work until after the baby is born.)
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