QuestionI am currently 35 weeks pregnant with my 3rd child(other 2 are 10 yrs and 7 yrs) The baby weighs aprox 8 lbs already and I measure 40. An amnio was performed and says her lungs are only at a 14 with 40 being developed. Is this a normal number for 35 weeks? Is there anything I can do? I am dilated to 3, measuring full term and out of room. No diabetes or blood pressure problems, everything has been healthy and she has always measured larger. My other 2 children were normal size(6lb4oz and 7lb4oz) and born at 37 weeks and 39 weeks. What should happen now knowing her lungs are not ready to deliver? The doctor was wanting to deliver in a few days if her lungs were developed.
AnswerIf her lungs are not developed, I do not think your doctor will want to deliver her in a few days. Fetal lungs mature all the way up to the birth and underdeveloped lungs are a huge cause for concern in newborns. As you are only 35 weeks, and if everything else looks normal (remember that ultrasound weight estimates can be off by 2 lbs!), your doctor will most likely wait until you are term for you to deliver. While she may be measuring big, her lung development is vital. Once you hit 40 weeks, if the baby is measuring over 10 lbs, your doctor may schedule you for a cesarean. If the lungs are still immature, dexamethasone may be administered to you to help the lungs stimulate surfactant, which is essential to your baby being able to breathe outside of the womb.
As for being out-of-room, remember that your body will stretch. =) In addition, I personally know of a woman who delivered a baby over 10 lbs vaginally, so it can be done. =) I recommend going over these results with your doctor and seeing what the best course of action is and perhaps bringing in a neonatal specialist if you have additional concerns.
Please let me know if I can help you further or with anything else.
Best wishes!
Helen =)
