In Part 1, I shared some of the concerns I had and the lessons I learned in my Advanced Maternal Age (AMA) pregnancy. During this pregnancy, I developed some complications and things certainly did not go according to plan.
Around one month before my baby was born, my midwife ordered more blood work due to her suspicion of pre-eclampsia because of higher blood pressure and edema. She also ordered a second ultrasound because baby seemed to be on the small side. We found out he had AGR, Asymmetrical Growth Restriction.
We planned for me to increase my protein intake. My blood test results came in and everything seemed to be at normal levels with my liver and kidneys–normal enough to continue with our birth plan for our homebirth. We did a lot at home to get ready, nested a little early, and purchased some items we needed. Part of the preparation for a homebirth is also packing a hospital bag just in case. I didn’t get that far even though I was 34 weeks.
The Complications and Birth
At that time, my main complaints were lower back pain, fatigue, and edema. The evening before baby was born, I joined this very ABQ Mom team for our pictures. When I got back to my car, I started to feel a stomach ache and decided to use the restroom at the gas station. Immediately, I knew something was off because I felt light-headed and queasy. I managed to get a drink (which I never paid for), called my husband, explained everything.
» » » » » RECOMMENDED RESOURCE: Labor and Delivery Hospitals in Albuquerque « « « « «
I knew I couldn’t drive. He got there quickly, and we decided to go to nearby Lovelace Women’s Hospital. I was admitted for pre-eclampsia and HELLP Syndrome. Even though I am older (at Advanced Maternal Age over 40), these issues can come at any age. And for most, they won’t come at all.
Emergency C-Section and NICU Stay
After I was admitted, I took meds for high blood pressure and baby was closely monitored. The night seemed to pass slowly, especially because I didn’t feel good and my doctor wanted to induce at first. A folly bulb was eventually inserted, and I continued to wait and try to rest. Early the next morning, the doctor said it was time for a c-section because of the risk of liver and kidney damage.
Although that was never in my plan, I’m thankful for that option.
It was a relief because I couldn’t imagine feeling that bad and waiting for labor to start up. I was prepped, taken into the operating room, and our baby was born at 34 weeks and at 3.5 lbs! We are so thankful for all the care we received to have a safe delivery for both myself and baby.
» » » » RELATED READ: My Two Preemie Birth Stories + Tips for Supporting Parents « « « «
This was my first time with pre-eclampsia and HELLP Syndrome, first epidural, and first c-section, and first preemie baby (all of which can be another story for another time). After the procedure, I got a few seconds with our son before he was taken away. He had to go to the NICU, and I had to recover enough to make it there to see him. It was quite the recovery for me, including the 6-day hospital stay and then recovery at home. It was also quite the 21-day stay in the NICU. We were so excited when we got the news that he could go home!
Home Life & Adjustment
When baby was still in the NICU, comfort came when we were away knowing that we could be home with our other four children who needed us too. The baby’s homecoming was very sweet as his siblings hadn’t been able to see him yet. We were all beyond excited! My provider advised me that I spend lots of time bonding with him and holding him while my family members took care of the other household duties. Breastfeeding had been a challenge being away from him. Now having him with me all the time and being able to nurse him on demand was just what we needed! Concerns about breastfeeding after a few years break are normal, but I’m glad to report that this may have even been my easiest baby to nurse!
I have talked to a few mom friends over 40, and it seems like we all have experienced overwhelm and what we are calling “mom overstimulation” That’s when things seem to add up and get so busy or loud that mom needs a minute. I have to make sure I make time for some quiet in reading or even scrolling my phone. Maybe going to another room or even asking my children if they can play somewhere else for a while. Maybe it’s time out of the house or maybe saying “no” to going to an event.
In the day-to-day things and all that is going on in our household and out, I continue to learn every day. I’m learning to be patient and calm. I’m trying to relax when things are chaotic and noisy. Busy schedules and noise come with the territory of a large family!
While it didn’t go exactly how I’d planned, I’m grateful for my pregnancy at AMA and so grateful for the little boy that joined our family.
The opinions expressed in this post are those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of ABQ Mom, its executive team, other contributors to the site, its sponsors or partners, or any organizations the aforementioned might be affiliated with.
