So, um, yeah. Given our past history, this new development is rather shocking. Is this really happening?
The ultrasound was yesterday, and it was supposed to be the NT scan. This is is usually scheduled for 11-13 weeks, which we were too early for (as I had guessed -- my midwife was basing things of my official dates but I thought I had ovulated about two weeks later than that -- and was right!).
But, despite that, we we did get some very interesting info, nonetheless. TWO babies! TWO heartbeats! Holy %*&#! We are shocked, excited, freaking out, happy. And overwhelmed!
They are diamniotic / monochorionic twins, which means they have their own amniotic sac (which is good!) but share a placenta (not the best). This means they are identical! The shared placenta means there is a risk for twin to twin transfusion syndrome, where where the twins do not share the blood and resources equally. We will be monitored very closely with lots of ultrasounds to keep tabs on the babies growth, and to watch for this.
Unfortunately, I now need to find a new midwife and/or an OB! Which means I have to decide (again) what hospital we want to deliver in. Which means I have to do at least a little research on NICUs, twin birth policies/stats, or at least get some recommendations from people who know more than me! Eeeps! I have a higher chance being allowed to at least be considered for a vaginal birth (depending on circumstances, of course) at certain hospitals, like the one I was planning to go to. BUT, since that one is smaller, it is not equipped for births under 32 weeks. Which I really hope we don't have, but its something to consider.
I feel like overnight I have been given a new identity: Twin Mama. OMG. That is weird! I know I will get used to it, but I'm not there yet....
