Evening Everyone,

So initially I wanted to keep the induction date a secret but things have moved on a bit since then and the whole point of doing this blog was to help others so I want to make sure I share all important developments so that the complete picture is shared and so people become more aware of pregnancy and disability.

We were due to come in this Friday 2nd August 2019 for induction as this is when I will be 37 weeks and full term. I never thought I would reach this stage. I could remain pregnant for longer but as baby is big, we chose induction to increase my chances of avoiding a C section.

However, I have been having issues with my bladder as the baby’s head is so low that he is preventing urine from passing. This can happen in pregnancy but is more common in women with paralysis as the nerve pathways are compromised anyway so any pressure on the nerves from baby means the nerves stop working altogether.

I saw the midwife on Monday and she referred us to hospital where we spent the day. I had to be catheterised and the doctors wanted to admit me to ensure my bladder could be emptied regularly. I wasn’t ready to stay in hospital for 4 days and I just didn’t feel it was necessary. The doctors know that my job role and years in hospital mean that I am aware of the risks and benefits of hospital admission. They therefore agreed to let me home on the understanding I would return if I felt my bladder was getting too full and not emptying properly.

I managed yesterday but today I started to feel uncomfortable again so I have been admitted to a ward. My bladder has been drained and I am currently in bed listening to baby’s heart on a monitor. They said he seems happy and is very active.

I had hoped to avoid hospital until induction but I didn’t want to take any risks so came in tonight. There are slight traces of infection in my urine but these are mild. The doctors will visit in the morning and make a decision about whether to induce tomorrow or Friday. The catheters carry risks of infection so it may be worth inducing a day early to minimise this risk. However, it depends on beds on the induction suite.

I haven’t been in hospital since my last back surgery in 2005. Being in a hospital bed with all the associated noises brings back memories for me that aren’t the best but I think these experiences have  made me stronger. A few people have asked if I am nervous about the delivery but honestly I haven’t had time to think much. With my body nothing really goes to plan when it comes to hospital treatment so I am going to go with the flow.

I will keep you all updated but it may not be for a few days.

Take care all xxx