Well, the big day is finally here. Natalie told me that we had to be into UVRMC at 5:15 am so that they could do the scheduled c-section at 7:00. That seemed way too early at the time. However, when she woke me up at 1:50 am and told me that she was having contractions and we needed to get to the hospital ASAP before things progressed too far, that seemed a little much. Of course, I still insisted on taking a shower . . .
We arrived at the hospital at about 2:30 because hey, at least there was very little traffic. Contractions were irregular and not too painful-- especially for me. We were admitted, and they began monitoring contractions. At 3:30, they called the doctor with all the details and he said that they would continue to monitor things, but the c-section would go on as scheduled at 7:30. They did give Natalie an epidural at that point, but she was still pretty mad that she had to go through labor for a scheduled c-section!
After some fitful sleep, Dr. Thorpe came in at about 6:30 and said we would be doing the c-section at 7:00.
Seth James Ockey was delivered by Dr. Thorpe and Dr. Drewes at 7:15 am. He was 9 lb. 6 oz. (Mark was 8 lb. 6 oz. and Dax was 9 lb. 8 oz.). He was 20 inches long.
Natalie had no complications, but Seth caused a few worries. His blood sugar came in below the number they wanted (37, and they want a 45). They put a tube 18 cms long down his throat and into his belly and gave him some formula. That raised the number to 68. I guess it is not uncommon for big babies to be unable to maintain their blood sugar.
The more serious problem was respiration. Seth was struggling to breathe. His respiration rate was too high and he kept moaning and grunting-- a sign that he was struggling hard for breath. He kept this up most of the morning and was checked by respiration specialists twice. Everything seems to be a little better, but they think that his lungs aren't fully expanded yet.
It is currently just after 10 am, and Natalie is attempting Seth's first feeding. They seem to be working well together. We are both very tired but happy. I've taken lots of pictures, but they all look like a slightly blue baby covered in amniotic fluid. Here are a few of the best:
I'm so sorry for the worries!! But he's handsome and perfect. Keeping you in our prayers!!
ReplyDeleteHe is so cute! Charlie loves looking at his picture. Too bad for going into labor, that sucks.
ReplyDeleteSo, So cute!!!! Hope all is well and getting better. Can't wait to see the babe! (It's actually Grant and Maggie regardless of what the computer says.)
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