By Tracy Towne, Lena IL
PROM at 20 weeks + 4 days. Delivery at 33 weeks + 4 days.
Story added: 2004-11-17

This is the story of my third pregnancy. The first trimester seemed to go well, but things began to change as I entered the 2nd trimester. Around 14-16 weeks I started to have occasional spotting. I called the MD and the nurse said if there was no cramping that I shouldn't worry. I kept working and taking care of my other children and just watched it closely. It started to increase so I called back and that nurse said to come in immediatley. Ultrasound showed no placental problem and no reason for bleeding. I was put on limited activities but the bleeding continued. When I was 17.4 weeks I had major bleeding and passed a large clot. I was hospitalized for 4 days and bedrested for 2 weeks until the bleeding stopped. I had hoped that things were going to get better.

When I was 20.4 weeks pregnant I felt a huge gush. I had a gross rupture of my membranes and lost all of my amniotic fluid. I was admitted to the hospital and put on antibiotics and IV fluids. The MD suggested that he induce to deliver, but I told him no. I could feel our son moving around and I felt that I would wait and see what would happen to the pregnancy without interventions. From that moment on I was on strict bedrest in the hospital.

I continued to leaked everyday, sometimes large amounts. Ultrasounds never showed adequate fluid, but somehow our baby continued to grow and thrive.

After a long 13 week hospitalization I went into labor on my own and delivered our son. He was 4lb 6oz and born at 33.4 weeks gestation. He spent a month in the hospital. His condition was critical at first due to an infection, but he quickly rebounded. He is developing normally for his adjusted age, and we expect him to do well.

The hospital stay was long, but from the beginning I said that I could not live with myself if I ended the pregnancy on my own. I am a nurse and I know the MD. I think that is why he agreed to let me continue the pregnancy. I know it is not an option for some people.

I hope this story gives hope to those of you on bedrest right now. Keep the faith, and know that you are doing the best you can for your child. That is all you can do. Bedrest is an exercise of faith and patience - I hope that all you waiting have plenty of both. Best wishes.