Doctor Follow-Up

Kiersten had her first checkup this morning. Her BP was elevated, but no other symptoms have crept up. Her doctor is concerned about the situation and has instructed Kiersten to get two Fetal Non-Stress Tests (NST) a week. The NST is a test to evaluate how the baby is handling the stress caused by the hypertension. Hopefully, Kiersten's body will be able to determine when the baby is ready to begin labor. However, if the hypertension begins to overwhelm the baby, this test will alert her doctor and she may induce labor.

It is now a waiting game. We have read stories and many of you have shared stories of women who went through the same situation and have healthy babies. Although it is a serious situation, we at least know that it often has good outcome.

On the positive side:

• The swelling in her left foot subsided overnight and is only slightly more swollen that her right foot,
  
• Kiersten will most likely deliver sooner rather than later,
• Now that Kiersten is on maternity leave from work, she will not have to deliver after working all day,
• I will not have to get the feared "phone call" from the hospital.

Kiersten will go to her first NST tomorrow and I will be sure to give you another quick update then.