Some Answers about Gareth’s Birth and A Tough Decision
Travis and I have been trying for over a year now to get pregnant. Unfortunately we’ve had no luck. So in March we underwent a series of tests to see if we could figure out what was going on (thanks a million to everyone who provided help during our doctor’s visits and my surgery!) After the doctor looked over the test results and after I had laproscopic surgery, it was determined that I have a “unicornate uterus.” This means I only have half of the uterus I should have, that only one tube/ovary is functional, and that my uterus is small. Women who have this abnormality (which is actually a birth defect) often have a tough time getting pregnant, have a higher risk of miscarriage and preterm labor and can have difficulty during labor. Our doctor now feels that this is the reason that Gareth was born early, was a bit on the small size, and had a prolapsed cord during labor. Our doctor has stated that if we were eventually able to get pregnant again it would be a high risk preganancy; I would have to undergo frequent ultrasounds and bedrest and/or preterm delivery (and a NICU stay) would be possibilities. Many women with this abnormality have indeed had healthy children, but many have suffered multiple miscarriages first or have had some difficulty during the pregnancy. Given Gareth’s high level of need and our already stressful life, going through a high risk pregnancy would be a big challenge for us. So, we have made the very difficult decision to not continue trying for a second child. Eventually, when life calms down a bit and once we get over the sadness of this decision we may look into adoption. But for now, Gareth will remain a very, very loved and extremely spoiled only child.