I went into the fertility clinic this afternoon during a spell of hail, rare in these parts. Lying on the table waiting for the doctor’s infectious energy to disperse my anxiety, wondering what the ultrasound would say. I have a good feeling about this one, but that intuition pales in comparison with Actual Information and some was about to be leaked.
The doctor springs into the room and with a handshake, we begin. First, I have to point out my bladder, just to prove that I’ve been paying attention (yes, I recognize my organs on TV now). We move on to the uterine lining (progesterone doing its job – check), inspect the ovaries (are we drawing this out on purpose??) and indeed, the monstrous follicle that was hanging out there for a while has gone…
The uterus. A black circle of amniotic fluid. A yolk sack. And there in the middle, a little flickering thing. The heart beating… I’m astonished we can see it already, just 6 weeks along, or 4 if you count actual weeks like someone who uses a calendar. He measures everything, gets the little guy in his scope and the machine actually amplifies the heartbeat, humming away. I think it’s mine, I can hardly believe we can detect it at this stage. Wow. Actual Information is right.
Meanwhile, its little cohort (um… twins?) is on its way to being reabsorbed. It’s extremely tiny, just the footprint of an amniotic sac, nothing more. This apparently explains the high HCG number. Though I’m going to continue to ascribe it to Embryo #1′s brilliance and intestinal fortitude.
Onward to the OB and my H1N1 shot (all the doctors said yes, unequivocally) and a retinue of blood work on its way, endless options for tests. And in the back of my mind, weighing the options, I’ll be carving my way through for a balance of science and magic. This is going to be an astonishing ride.
YAY for little tiny fluttering heartbeats! Thumpa-thumpa-thumpa…..
Work it Lentil, Auntie has so many things to start getting you! A heartbeat…it’s too amazing. I’ll go to sleep tonight and think of that sound and smile.
De-lurking to tell you congratulations! I’ve visited from time to time, always hoping that you’d have good news and you do!!
Congratulations and enjoy the ride!
Woo Hoo! Such good news. But guess lentil soup is off the menu for the duration….
Oh! I am so excited. I have been biting my nails for a long time-hoping and praying for you. I just let out a bip “whoop” scaring all of my co-workers.
Just decided to check again after a busy few weeks and WOW! Such exciting news after your long and interesting journey — at least the telling was interesting . . . ! Congrats, hugs, and good luck with the next part of your journey toward mommy-hood. We await the next installment of the story.
And Merry Christmas!