Monday, December 2, 2013

Decisions, Decisions

So, the tough part of parenting begins already.  Decision making.  Choosing what is best for your baby. 

I have found an excellent wealth of knowledge and support from an online message board for parents of children with skeletal dysplasias.  Several people have reached out to me regarding my situation so far.  One person in particular has recommended that I seek out a specialist before my next appointment with my midwife, which isn't until December 23.  Gah, it seems so far away! 

My midwife has said that at my Dec. 23 appointment, if his measurements are still low, she will refer me to a specialist.  Of course, that is right around the holidays, and I don't know how long it will take to see a specialist.  And I don't know how to seek one out on my own if I want to before then.

The girl from the message board recommends that I see one now, because they will do more intense, thorough monitoring of multiple things.  They will also begin to form a diagnosis, and my care for the rest of my pregnancy could depend on that. 

My concern with waiting is that my doctor, from what she told me, is familiar with one type of skeletal dysplasia- achondroplasia.  That's what she told me to research, and said that it could most likely be.  From my research, I have learned that there are about 350 types of skeletal dysplasia.  And of course, they're not all treated and cared for exactly the same.  It could also be IUGR (inter uterine growth restriction), which means I should be doing a few things differently. 

Either way, we probably won't have a definite diagnosis until he's born.  And it may not make a difference in terms of my care if I see a specialist now. 

I really like my doctor too, and don't want to step on her toes.  I honestly belive that she has my best interest at mind, I'm just not sure if she's familiar enough with everything that could be going on.  I guess I need to talk it over with my hubby.  He's been more open to listening to me talk about a few things related to all of this lately.  He doesn't say much in repsonse, but he's receptive to hearing me out.  I just feel like I can't put too much on him at once.  Oh, and I told my brother about everything last Wednesday.  His reaction was as I expected.  He's very supportive and loving and of course, wants to do his own research and see where he can help!

I just want what is best for my baby. I love this little boy to pieces already! 

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