Mia's Birthday!

Much earlier than expected, Mia made her appearance on July 3rd, 2007 at 12:35pm weighing 6 lbs 1.5 oz and measuring 18.5 inches. I went to my routine 36-week doctor appointment on July 2nd, and due to high blood pressure (165/85) the doctor had me admitted to the hospital for observation. While there I was hooked to monitors and had my blood pressure checked every 15 minutes along with Mia's heartbeat. Everything seemed fine, that is until they did the ultrasound. I was very concerned that Mia was breech, and even though the doctor didn't agree, they decided to do an ultrasound to make sure. What they found changed everything. Not only was she breech, but the ultrasound showed a tear in the amnion (the inner layer of the amniotic sac). These types of tears create bands that can attach to the baby and disfigure or even kill in some cases (known as Amniotic Band Syndrome). The ultrasound could not tell when the tear occurred or what kind of damage may have already been done, but the specialist strongly advised me to have an immediate C-section. My doctor agreed, so after much thought and research, we opted for the C-section. I was concerned over her development at 36 weeks, but was assured that 95% of girl babies born at this age do very well (not needing assistance with breathing or other life functions). I wanted so much to have a natural, vaginal birth, but her health was the most important thing, so we made the decision. Tuesday morning I was prepped for surgery, including an IV, epidural and catheter (yuck!). At 12:15 I was wheeled into surgery and by 12:35pm I heard little Mia crying from the table. The sound of her cry brought tears to my eyes, and I started crying so much while the doctors sewed me up. I wanted so much to hold her, but I had to wait. The best news of the day was that the amniotic band syndrome had not damaged Mia. However, her nose was quite squished to the right, a result of her breech position. With this news, I knew we had done the right thing by getting her out immediately. I had a feeling that she was unable to move in the womb, but the doctors didn't believe me. I learned at that moment to trust my instincts, they had been right all along.

After all was done I was wheeled into the recovery room where Jarda and Mia were waiting for me. I watched as Mia got her first bath and Jarda took pictures. It was a beautiful time, even though I felt beaten up. Returning to my room was great because I really got to spend some time with my new family. We were joined by Pam, my doula, who helped with breastfeeding and other things I needed. Mia is still having some problems with breastfeeding, but that's normal for a preemie, and we are working them out. Here are some photos from the exciting day: