how important are the last couple of OB appts before delivery?

Sidheag McCormack wrote:
oregonchick writes:

I'm asking because I was just told that my regular OB has no openings in
the next couple of weeks and I'd have to see someone new. I said forget
it, I've had some bad experiences already with other docs in the clinic
and I'd just as soon wait until I go into labor. I'm 37.5 weeks along,
and besides the fact that I feel awful - tired, crampy, achy, etc, I
don't have any real problems. Can't I just wait?

IMHO you should probably be checking your blood pressure, and probably
checking your urine for protein, to make sure you don't start
pre-eclampsia. Easy to get the stuff for that and do it yourself.

I've still got a bunch of the protein dip sticks that I'd be happy to
mail you.

I agree with Sidheag - I would be monitoring BP and protein. Mine
didn't start to trend badly until week 38 - and I was put on bedrest
for PIH/preeclampsia (depending on which doctor you asked) until I
delivered in week 39. Up until then, my BP was high for the average
population, but very good/normal for me. Now it's in the normal for
the average person category - yay! Gotta love nursing...

Anyway, I have probably 50 - 75 of those sticks under my sink that I
didn't want to throw away, but I have no use for, and they're yours
free for the taking, Oregonchick. Just email me your address.

Amy