Another Update

So yesterday I was quite concerned with the findings of our latest ultrasound, specifically, the fact that the doctor told us Chase's abdomen was only in the 16th percentile for growth. I was very worried when we left, but even more so after we got home. I happened to have a copy of the information from our ultrasound at MUSC last week, and it indicated his abdomen circumference was in the 61st percentile! How in the world could it so drastically change in only 8 days!? Not to mention the fact that we were told he weighed 4 pounds last Tuesday at MUSC, and were told again yesterday that he weighed 4 pounds. That tells me he's put on NO WEIGHT in 8 days! Am I wrong to be concerned about this??

I did email Dr. Graham, the Pediatric Cardiologist at MUSC yesterday. Unfortunately he responded by saying he really isn't an expert in this area and that we really should rely on what Dr. Greig told us at our appointment. He suggested I contact Dr. Greig if I have worries or concerns. So I did.

I heard back from Dr. Greig today and he gave me a variety of reasons behind the discrepancy in numbers. He said there can typically be a 10-15% variation in numbers just due to the fact that there were 2 different ultrasound machines used in the measurements. He also stated there are several methods in which the baby's weight is estimated, so it really isn't an apples to apples comparison when you're talking about 2 different machines. He also said this is one reason why they typically don't do growth measurements less than 3 weeks apart, since there is so much variation in the baby's growth from week to week. And on top of all of this, Chase wasn't overly cooperative during the ultrasound and stayed laying on his left side. There's a really good chance the ultrasound tech wasn't able to get a good measurement because of his position. Again, Dr. Greig didn't seem overly concerned. He said based on what he saw, Chase's abdomen growth is on the "lower side of normal" and in cases like this, he typically tells the mom to rest more and eat more. We'll keep an eye on this measurement as we progress, considering we have weekly appointments with Dr. Greig from here on out. I guess I just need to relax and try not to worry (easier said than done!).

In the midst of all of this, I was very grateful to receive an encouraging email from a wonderful friend of mine this morning. She reminded me of a verse that brings a great deal of hope to me right now given our current circumstances:

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." ~ Joshua 1:9