Virtual Pregnancy» Essay Paper

During my normal routine checks, the doctor gave me the most unexpected news about my health. I was pregnant! This cannot be I have taken a permanent measure about this; I am too old for this and completely unprepared. All this ran through my mind as the doctor explained more details which I really never got. The whole nine months flushed through my mind about all the up and downs that one has to go through before delivery. Somehow I found courage in myself in the fact that I had already done it once then it should not be very difficult. First I had to call my husband.Virtual Pregnancy» Essay Paper

To tell the truth I would wish away the pregnancy but that is not an option anymore. It was very strange because when I missed my period I thought that it was one of many inconsistencies but this time I was wrong. I have to find a doctor who will walk with me all through the pregnancy. Immediately I called the pre- natal specialist once who helped me with my last pregnancy and booked for an appointment. She has been practising for a very long term and I believe she is the best choice for me.

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First trimester

During the first appointment the doctor talked to me about my psychological state and how I felt about the pregnancy. Sincerely I had finally accepted my state and my wonderful husband assured me full support. With such situation unfolding my emotional and mind status was okay.

The doctor performed several tests to confirm the pregnancy and after that she enquired about my last menstrual period. From the response a birth date was set but doctor assured more concrete date to be confirmed by use of the ultra sound. I was booked for an official first prenatal clinic in two weeks days. The date could not be pushed forward because of the doctor’s tight schedule and I never preferred being allocated another doctor. At this point the pregnancy was still at its lowest development but as time progressed I started getting nauseated, morning sickness also caught up with me. I also realised that my nipples and breasts were becoming tender progressively.Virtual Pregnancy» Essay Paper

First prenatal clinic, it was comforting that my husband accompanied me to the clinic. The doctor asked me to fill a medical history form and that of my immediate family. My husband also had to provide details about the same for himself and his family. The doctor was interested to find out whether I had a cat. She explained that cat’s faeces contain toxoplasmosis and this is very harmful to the unborn. Luckily I never favoured cats very much.Virtual Pregnancy» Essay Paper

A dozen tests were also performed like the pelvic test, Pap smear to check for abnormal cells. There was also a test on sexually transmitted diseases like Chlamydia and gonorrhoea which are easily transmitted to the baby. From the blood the doctors tested for hepatitis, rubella, anaemia, blood group, syphilis, toxoplasmosis and the HIV status. From the urine sample I provided urinary tract infections, proteins and blood sugar were tested, the doctor also advised that they will require urine sample for every visit that I make.

There was a physical exam on my lungs, heart, breasts and the uterus to check if the growth responds to the rate of foetus development. The genetic test was also carried out using the ultra sound and special blood tests were performed to check thalassemia, cystic fibrosis, sickle cell condition, Tay – Sachs disease and any form of genetic disorder that may be in the family line. Because of my age I received chorionic villus sampling (CVS) which is performed to women over the age of thirty five.

Other tests like multiple marker screening and amniocentesis were to be performed on later stages of the pregnancy. I also received counselling on several issues like the dietary composition, stop smoking and places where people smoke, checking may weight, contact with cat faeces, the type of exercises to do and how to handle symptoms that accompany pregnancy.Virtual Pregnancy» Essay Paper

By this time I decided it was the right time to let my closest family members and friends know before they found out themselves. It was quite not easy especially with my age and the age difference from the other siblings. I also called my children and informed them of the news which they received better than I accepted and this became easier for me. I realised that when you are okay with what is happening in your life then it is more accepted by friends and family.It also came to my mind that I had to review my health insurance cover to accommodate my baby. This I would be necessary in case of any problems during the way.Virtual Pregnancy» Essay Paper

Would my age be a factor to consider all the way through? Just like anybody else i visit internet to see blogs from women who were pregnant at my age. Most of what I read is not very encouraging but it is the reality. I lay my hopes that I am at the good side of the statistics from many still births, miscarriages, pre-mature births and even genetic abnormalities. Would the delivery go on safely or complications will occur? Can caesarean delivery be performed in time to save the day in case of complication? Will my age affect the healing of the scar? Consolations are well received from blogging with women who made it successfully and my gynaecologist who is now like a friend.

I am very concerned about my career direction and motherhood. I wonder if I can handle being a mother after a long time and at the same time keep my career at its current form. If I quit my job there will be financial weight on my husband to pay for all the expenses and college fees alone. This will be determined after I get the child and the prevailing situation will guide me on what steps to take. In case I quit my savings can be used for supplementing my needs until I can work again.Virtual Pregnancy» Essay Paper

Second trimester

Week fourteen of my pregnancy there was tremendous reduction in morning sickness and nausea. The doctors says that the baby is developing well but not yet big enough to cause abdominal discomfort. Several things I have noted during this period are the enlargement of my breasts.

The size change can clearly be seen because I have small breasts. The doctor has explained to me that this is because of hormone progesterone and oestrogen which increase the size of milk producing glands. There is also deposition of fats and improvement in breast tenderness although the nipples remain tender. Doctor has instructed me to use a supportive bra.Virtual Pregnancy» Essay Paper