Gastroschisis..

[Shortiee2707]

Hiya everyone.
At my 12 week scan I was told that my little bump has gastroschisis. It's not large or the whole thing, just a 'standard' amount I suppose. I've come to terms with all of that now though and prepared myself for the time she comes, I just wondered if anybody knew what week I would be going down for my c-section? Or how many weeks early? I haven't planned anything with my midwife or anybody yet about the birth but I have been told that I will be having the c-section. I am now 23 weeks along. No problems. I'm just curious :)
Anybody who's experienced what it is like having a baby that has gastroschisis, please do share experiences but nothing that will scare me to death lol

Hi, I am a neonatal nurse and have looked after lots of babies with gastroschisis. Firstly, when you are sectioned, probably planned for 37 weeks, the baby will be brought out, cord cut and then baby dried and wrapped (as usual). Then the baby's abdomen will be wrapped in cling film to keep the intestines from drying out. If baby is happy you will have chance for a cuddle and a few pics before baby will be taken down to the neonatal unit. There your baby will have a drip put in arm to provide vital sugar and fluids, and be kept warm in an incubator wearing nothing but a nappy. You will be able to visit probably as much as you like, as will your partner. Sometimes other visitors can only come at certain times. The surgeon will come and assess your lovely baby then to decide what needs to be done. They can sometimes close it straight up, other times they put a special dressing over it and baby has to lay flat while you wait for intestines to slowly slip in a bit so the skin can be closed. The baby won't receive milk during this time but you will be encouraged to express your milk so it can be frozen and ready for when he/she can have it. In my experience, babies with gastroschisis are always beautiful, if a little skinny to start with. You can ask me any questions, but nearer the time you will meet someone at the hospital who will be able to answer a lot of your questions. Enjoy your pregnancy x

Hi, Just wanted to say that my son was born with gastroschisis nearly 26 years ago. He was delivered by c-section at about 37 weeks and taken straight to special care. He was laid in the incubator while his intestines slowly slipped back inside - his was a large amount and this took about a week or so. Then he was taken to theatre for it to be closed. He was in hospital for a few weeks afterwards, but recovered well and has not had any major problems since. I had a lot of support from the hospital both during the pregnancy and after delivery. I hope it all goes well for you, good luck!

Thank you so much for your replies! That's so much more information than I've had so far and has really helped! X