Low Papp A and High HCG

These two {STUPID} proteins have caused more grief than anything else this pregnancy.

Doctors don't know a whole lot about their purpose; but they do know that this combination of proteins is statistically proven to pose a higher risk for the following:

• Down Syndrome
• Placental problems (previa, accreta, increta, percreta)
• Preeclampsia
• Preterm birth
• Intrauterine growth restriction and low birth weight
• Heart defects

For more info, click here and here (page 12-13).

When I arrived at my prenatal appointment last Thursday, the nurse came to find me in the waiting room and said, "We're going to do things a little differently from now on..." and brought me back towards the Non-Stress Test room instead of the usual exam room.  Before she left, she smiled and said, "You're going to be an expert at this pretty soon."  My doctor then proceeded to tell me that I will have Non-Stress Test (NST) monitoring twice weekly and monthly growth ultrasounds for the remainder of my pregnancy.  And, as an added precaution, I am to remain on pelvic rest until 35 weeks.

I'll be honest, it's a little alarming to me.  My doctor has tried to calm my nerves by saying that this is standard precautionary care for women with these protein levels; and that Parker hasn't given us any reason to be concerned.  Which is true, and I try to focus on that; he has consistently measured one week ahead and shown no markers during ultrasounds.  Unfortunately, my happy thoughts are usually interrupted by the mother of all contractions, and that brings me back to reality.  All we can do is have faith and be patient.

Praying for you everyday, buddy.  I love you.