Doctor’s Appointment Today
October 5, 2009
Had what I thought was going to be my “first prenatal doctor’s appointment” today. It was actually too early in the pregnancy to do an ultrasound and all that. My doctor had wanted to see me as early as possible because she wanted to do a full pelvic exam, including pap smear, and then draw blood because “at 37, you can often get pregnant, but it doesn’t stick because progesterone levels are too low.” I have been taking my temperature every morning to be sure my progesterone levels haven’t dropped (as long as it stays high, according to Taking Charge of Your Fertility, your progesterone level is good). This morning, the temperature was still high. The doctor felt this was a good thing, but will be determining the actual level of progesterone (maybe it’s still not enough even if the temp is high – I don’t know) tomorrow and will call me with the results. She said if the progesterone level is low, she’ll give me progesterone by mouth.
The other reason she drew blood is to get the actual HCG level in my blood, which can tell her exactly how far along I am. HCG is the hormone that shows up on a pregnancy test when you pee on the stick, but the blood test can get a lot more specific.
Needless to say, the appointment freaked me out somewhat. I have no reason to think things aren’t OK, but the whole age thing is a bummer. On one hand, people (even doctors) tell you you’re a spring chicken. On the other, they have to take all sorts of precautions as a result of your age. On the insurance form that they gave me, it says “pregnany – high risk.” I know it’s just language, but it’s all a bit scary. That said, what will be will be.
She also said she didn’t want me reading a “shitty book” and gave me a book from the American Obstetrical Association. I think I’ll switch to that one from What to Expect When You’re Expecting, which isn’t so wonderful. It doesn’t suck, but it doesn’t really work for me. The doctor also gave me a helpful little card to put in my wallet that says what fish are safe to eat and what are not, and what over the counter medicines are safe to take.
Results in tomorrow. Until then, trying to feel good!
Love,
Phoebe
