Pregnant and waiting

When I had Madison, the date we were shooting for (with all of my preterm labor issues) was 26 weeks. A baby could survive (with or without problems) at 26 weeks. Madison is now 3 (aff) years old. I ended up making it to term with no problems.

I was reading today and they have changed the viable date. Infants born on the cusp of the 23 week period are now considered viable. At 23 weeks, the skin, lungs, eyes, digestive system, and circulatory system are not ready for the outside world. Survivors face blindness, deafness, brain damage and possible neurological, physical, and developmental problems. Statistics show that infants born at 23 or 24 weeks have a 1 in 3 (aff) chance of being blind, deaf, or living with cerebal palsy. A quarter are mentally retarded. More than half have significant developmental problems.

Why is this important to me? I am 23 weeks pregnant this week. The ethical question to be asked here is when is to early? What criteria should be used to determine whether or not you continue care for these premature infants?

Let me know your thoughts.

Lisa Martin

In April 2006, Lisa began blogging to stay connected with distant relatives and friends. As she delved into blogging, she discovered the potential to assist others by sharing her experiences. Lisa has actively engaged in numerous exclusive media ventures. Notable among these are her participation in events such as the Sony Mommy Bloggers Event, the Pampers Mommy Bloggers Event, the Epson Event in Chicago, the Stouffers Event, a memorable yacht excursion with Lands End, collaborations with 1-800-Baskets, an exclusive tour for bloggers by Mrs. Prindable’s, partnerships with Hallmark, PopCap games, Chicago Cubs Mastercard Priceless Events, and Rug Doctor. In addition, she has collaborated with Nutrisystem on a weight loss initiative, teamed up with Buick and Chevy, and served as a brand ambassador for Sprint. Lisa's collaboration portfolio also extends to Disney, where she has participated in press trips for significant movies such as Frozen, Guardians of the Galaxy, McFarland USA, The Good Dinosaur, The BFG, and Cars 3. Notably, for projects like Frozen, The BFG, and Cars 3, she was granted the privilege of walking the red carpet and conducting interviews with celebrities. The impact of Lisa's blog has gained recognition, with The New York Times referencing her content. Moreover, she has been featured in interviews by respected publications such as the Southtown Star, The Chicago Sun Times, and inside.

This Post Has 3 Comments

  1. Leigh

    Congrats on 23 weeks! My SIL is at 40 weeks this Thursday. My opinion, all babies are worth fighting for regardless of the chances. A life is a life.

  2. Nellie

    If one doesn't fight for life regardless of the chances, that is abortion outside the womb. (just my thoughts)

    Hope things continue to progress well.

  3. Melissa

    Making it to 23 weeks would put me more at ease knowing that if my baby were born now, there would be that chance of survival.

    I enjoy learning about your pregnancy, it is neat that you are due only a few weeks before me!

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