I am about 20 weeks pregnant and just found out that my AFP level was elevated at 2.89. I had a Level II ultrasound yesterday and have been having them every 3 weeks due to previous losses and being high-risk. The baby has been measuring as it should, but yesterday it seemed to measure almost a week behind. That, along with the elevated AFP level has me very concerned. The high risk ob has put me on partial bedrest and told me to eat as much as possible because my placenta does not seem to be functioning as it should, a problem I've had in the past. I am on blood thinner injections once a day and he just bumped me up to twice a day hoping that will help.
Has anyone else experience an elevated AFP level and baby measuring behind? We're hoping for the best but with my past experiences know the worst can happen.
I have no experience, but I will offer many prayers up for you tonite. I had a very difficult time with pregnancy, and know how difficult it can be. Best of luck.
Ask him if you can take magnesium malate. also consider iodine.
Both are crucial during pregnancy.
I'm so sorry and I will say a prayer for you and your baby. I'm so glad your OB is keeping a close eye on you. I've never had elevated AFP but I had all 4 of my children fall behind like that (except my current baby ) at around that time. They were all born healthy but I didn't have the same problem as you. Good luck and congratulations!
Hi ZZ, I have some similarities with you and completely understand your anxiety.
I had 3 miscarriages for unknown reasons before conceiving my daughter. This and age (37) put me in the high risk category so my regular doc stepped aside and I saw high risk team from the beginning. I had ultrasounds every 2 weeks and an elevated AFP level, for which they never found a cause. I had placenta previa and accreta, and hopefully your doctor has determined if either of these is the reason for the poor function.
With the measurements, keep in mind that as precise as the process may seem, there are subtle differences from tech to tech, and even the same tech can measure the same baby twice and not come up with exactly the same measurements.
My 18-mo daughter was born at 37 1/2 weeks and has been petite from the onset, but she is active and right on track for all other areas of development. I hope this helps to relieve some of your concerns. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers :)
