BUBITA!

We had our 20-week, level II ultrasound appointment with the MFM doctor today. Aunt Pau and Dad were able to join Momma. We were treated to 23 minutes of baby-sonogram time! The sono tech does the preliminary examination followed by an even more thorough examination by Dr. T.

And as bets were laid, we found out we are having a baby GIRL!!!! Dad could barely restrain himself since he was so excited to get his daddy's girl. Everything is looking great. She is measuring right on target. Her little brain (actually a big head, but have you seen Bubeaner?) was perfectly and uniformly formed. Her little kidneys were functioning and had proper blood flow. We were amazed to see her little heart with all four chambers AND clearly visible valves pumping away. We even saw the liver! Today's technology is quite amazing; though God's handiwork is just breathtaking.

The placenta appears fine at the moment with proper blood flow and no areas of concern so far. There is one area of concern with Bubita. We have a 2-cord placenta with 1 vein and 1 artery rather than 1 vein and 2 arteries. It happens in about 1% of pregnancies (of course!).

This sometimes means there might be birth defects or chromosomal issues. However, Dr. T was reassured by our quad-screen results, which we took at our 16-week appointment, and by the results from today's sonogram. There were no other markers that might indicate other issues. Right now, it appears that our main concern will be watching Bubita's growth since this condition can also lead to growth issues while in the womb.

Though concerned, we were thrilled to know we are having a little baby girl and that she is thriving. And yes, she still shows quite a feisty nature. The sono tech even laughed at her antics though Bubita did agree to cooperate through the exam. We are excited to know our family of four will include our Bubeaner and now our Bubita! (We haven't broken the news to Sandy, our current baby girl.)