#fetal doppler

[giannic]

Could the fetal doppler have prevented Rosemary's Baby from entering the world to usher in the Apocalypse? Try not to laugh, I tell myself. This is seriously sick shit.

[dentalmicroscopeapplications]

Enhancing Precision and Excellence: Dental Microscope Applications in Yatala

Welcome to our blog, where we delve into the world of dental innovations that are transforming smiles and elevating the standards of care. Today, we're shining a spotlight on an incredible advancement in dentistry - Dental Microscope Applications in Yatala. This cutting-edge technology is revolutionizing the way dental procedures are performed, ensuring precision, accuracy, and improved patient outcomes.

A Closer Look at Dental Microscope Applications

Seeing the Unseen

In the field of dentistry, precision is paramount. Dental issues can often hide in the smallest, most intricate corners of your mouth, making them challenging to diagnose and treat effectively. Enter the dental microscope, a powerful tool that magnifies and illuminates the oral cavity like never before. This microscopic view allows dentists to see details that would be impossible to discern with the naked eye.

Transforming Diagnostics

One of the most significant advantages of dental microscopes is their role in early diagnosis. By visualizing dental problems at their inception, dentists can intervene proactively, preventing more extensive and costly treatments down the road. Whether it's a tiny cavity, a hairline crack, or the early stages of gum disease, the dental microscope reveals the story behind your oral health.

A Multitude of Applications

Dental microscopes find applications across various dental specialties, including:

1.      Endodontics

Dental microscopes are a game-changer in root canal treatments. They allow endodontists to navigate the complex root canal system with precision, ensuring that no infected tissue is left behind.

2.      Restorative Dentistry

For restorative procedures like fillings, crowns, and veneers, the microscope ensures that dental work seamlessly blends with your natural teeth, both in function and aesthetics.

3.      Periodontics

In periodontal treatments, dental microscopes aid in thorough cleaning, precise root planing, and the precise removal of infected tissue, promoting optimal gum health.

4.      Oral Surgery

From wisdom teeth extractions to dental implant placements, oral surgeons use dental microscopes to enhance surgical precision, minimize invasiveness, and reduce recovery times.

The Patient's Perspective

Dental microscopes aren't just a boon for dentists; they also improve the patient experience. By catching dental issues early and ensuring precise treatments, patients can enjoy:

1.      Minimally Invasive Procedures

Smaller incisions, less discomfort, and shorter recovery times are just some of the benefits of microscope-assisted treatments.

2.      Visual Understanding

Patients can actively participate in their treatment decisions as dentists can display the images captured by the microscope, explaining the issues and the proposed solutions.

3.      Improved Outcomes

Microscope-guided treatments often result in more predictable and successful outcomes, providing patients with lasting dental health.

The Future of Dentistry in Yatala

Dental Microscope Applications in Yatala are transforming dental care from an art into a science. By enhancing precision, early diagnosis, and patient understanding, this technology is setting new standards in the dental industry.

If you're looking for a dental practice in Yatala that harnesses the power of dental microscope applications, look no further. Our commitment to innovation and patient-centric care ensures that you receive the highest level of dental treatment available.

To experience the benefits of dental microscopy firsthand, schedule an appointment with us today. Your smile deserves nothing less than the very best.

Precision. Clarity. Excellence. Welcome to the Future of Dentistry in Yatala.

[ireneyoder]

Understanding Doppler Fetal Monitoring: A Vital Tool for Prenatal Care

Doppler fetal monitoring is a crucial tool in prenatal care, allowing healthcare professionals to assess the well-being of the unborn baby. This non-invasive procedure provides valuable information about the fetal heart rate, ensuring early detection of potential complications. In this article, we will delve into the world of hand held doppler fetal monitoring, understanding its importance, how it works, and the benefits it offers for both expectant mothers and healthcare providers.

An Introduction to Doppler Fetal Monitoring

Doppler fetal monitoring involves the use of ultrasound technology to detect and measure the blood flow in the umbilical cord and fetal blood vessels. By analyzing the changes in sound waves as they bounce off moving blood cells, healthcare professionals can determine the fetal heart rate and identify any abnormalities or deviations from the normal range.

The Importance of Doppler Fetal Monitoring in Prenatal Care

Doppler fetal monitoring plays a critical role in ensuring the well-being of the fetus. Regular monitoring helps identify potential issues such as fetal distress, umbilical cord problems, or placental insufficiency, which could lead to complications or developmental delays. Early detection allows healthcare providers to intervene promptly, safeguarding the health of both the mother and the baby.

How Doppler Fetal Monitoring Works

During a Doppler fetal monitoring session, a healthcare professional applies a conductive gel to the mother's abdomen and uses a handheld device called a Doppler probe. The probe emits and receives ultrasound waves that penetrate the skin and bounce off the moving blood cells. The reflected waves are then converted into audible sound waves or displayed as waveforms on a screen. These sounds or waveforms help determine the fetal heart rate and provide insights into the blood flow dynamics.

Benefits and Limitations of Doppler Fetal Monitoring 

One of the primary benefits of Doppler fetal monitoring is its non-invasiveness. It allows healthcare providers to assess the fetal heart rate without penetrating the mother's skin or interfering with the natural progression of pregnancy. Doppler monitoring is relatively safe, painless, and can be performed multiple times during the prenatal period.

However, it is essential to acknowledge the limitations of Doppler fetal monitoring. While it provides valuable information about the fetus's well-being, it does not provide a comprehensive assessment of fetal health. It is not designed to diagnose specific conditions or predict long-term outcomes. Therefore, healthcare professionals may complement Doppler monitoring with other tests or procedures to obtain a more complete understanding of the fetal condition.

Ensuring Safety and Accuracy in Doppler Fetal Monitoring

To ensure the safety and accuracy of Doppler fetal monitoring, it is crucial to have trained healthcare professionals perform the procedure. They should have a thorough understanding of the equipment, techniques, and interpretation of results. Additionally, maintaining strict adherence to safety protocols, including using appropriate gel, ensuring proper cleaning of the equipment, and monitoring the duration and frequency of monitoring sessions, is paramount.

Doppler fetal monitoring is an invaluable tool in prenatal care, providing critical insights into the well-being of the unborn baby. By monitoring the fetal heart rate and blood flow, healthcare providers can detect potential complications and intervene early, ensuring optimal outcomes for both the mother and the baby. While Doppler fetal monitoring has its limitations, when used in conjunction with other prenatal assessments, it significantly contributes to comprehensive prenatal care and helps promote a healthy pregnancy.

[intriga-hounds]

my brother’s gf is a doctor so i asked her if she knew of anyone selling a used littmann cardiology iv and she said she had one I COULD JUST HAVE

i will have to get her a gift bc that’s way too generous…that’s a $200 stethoscope. 😭

[soundlessdragon]

I'm anxious about the possibility of losing my baby and writing to sort it out so if this subject is painful to you please don't read

A constant unanswered question of joy or of mourning, my every breath taunt.

Time feels frozen but maybe I should hold tight to it-

Maybe today is the last day that she won't be... dead yet.

I love you my little baby girl, and I'm so afraid.

My belly is too small and I can't feel your kicks.

Please God, if she has to die, let me feel her just once. Let her feel my touch through the womb, let her hear the voices of her father and brothers.

I don't know if she'll make it that far. Maybe it's already too late.

Maybe her last day was yesterday, or last week.

Maybe I am afraid for nothing, and you are just fine.

A little small, a little shy, but maybe you will be alright.

Maybe it is true that my worrying symptoms could be normal. Maybe the high inaccuracy of genetic tests will prove in your favor.

In less than 6 months you will be born, and join your brothers in the big outside world, and we will hold you close and laugh at our past fears.

May it be so. Dear God, please may it be so.

[drtejas1]

Read the Full Article: Growth and Doppler Scan In Pune

[centrelotusdiagnostic]

Lotus Imaging & Diagnostic Centre: Your Path to Health Clarity

Why Choose Our Sonography Centre?

Expertise and Experience: Our team comprises experienced radiologists and technicians who are dedicated to delivering high-quality imaging services with a focus on accuracy and patient comfort.

2. Advanced Technology: We leverage advanced ultrasound equipment and techniques to obtain clear and comprehensive images, enabling thorough diagnosis and treatment planning.

3. Patient-Centric Care: At Lotus Imaging & Diagnostic Centre, patient care is our top priority. We strive to create a welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable and confident in their healthcare journey.

4. Convenient Location: Sonography Centre in Vaishali Nagar, Jaipur our centre is easily accessible, making it convenient for residents in the area to access superior imaging services close to home.

Comprehensive Healthcare Solutions

In addition to our specialized sonography services, Lotus Imaging & Diagnostic Centre offers a range of diagnostic and imaging services to meet diverse medical needs. Whether you require colour Doppler, fetal health assessments, or maternal screening, our centre is equipped to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions tailored to your individual requirements.

[ausha123]

The Importance Of Early Pregnancy Monitoring: Baby Heart Monitor Insights By AUSHA

Pregnancy is a transformative journey filled with excitement, anticipation, and the profound responsibility of nurturing new life. In this modern era, advancements in medical technology have revolutionized prenatal care, offering expectant parents unprecedented opportunities to connect with and monitor their baby's development from the earliest stages. Central to this progress is the Doppler fetal monitor, a device that allows parents to listen to their baby's heartbeat, providing reassurance, medical insights, and fostering a deeper emotional bond.

Understanding Doppler Fetal Monitoring

The Doppler fetal monitor, commonly known as a baby doppler or heartbeat doppler, utilizes ultrasound technology to detect and amplify the fetal heartbeat. This non-invasive device has become a cornerstone in prenatal care, offering parents the ability to hear and monitor their baby's heartbeat as early as 16 weeks into pregnancy. AUSHA, a leading provider in this field, distinguishes itself with a range of advanced fetal heart doppler products designed for both home and clinical use, ensuring accuracy, safety, and ease of use.

Benefits of Early Pregnancy Monitoring

Early Detection and Reassurance: One of the primary benefits of using a fetal heart monitor is the ability to detect and hear the baby's heartbeat early in pregnancy. This provides immediate reassurance to parents and strengthens their emotional connection with their unborn child.

Medical Insights and Monitoring: Regular monitoring of the fetal heart rate can offer valuable insights into the baby's health and development. Variations in heart rate patterns may indicate potential issues that require medical attention, allowing for timely interventions and improved management of prenatal health.

Empowerment and Engagement: Access to real-time information about the baby's heartbeat empowers parents to actively participate in their prenatal care. It promotes a sense of involvement and responsibility, encouraging expectant parents to take proactive steps towards ensuring the well-being of their baby.

Emotional Bonding: Listening to the rhythmic sound of the fetal heartbeat is a profound experience that fosters a strong emotional bond between parents and their unborn child. It enhances the overall pregnancy journey, reducing anxiety and promoting a positive outlook towards pregnancy and parenthood.

AUSHA's Commitment to Prenatal Care

AUSHA is dedicated to enhancing the pregnancy experience through innovative and reliable fetal doppler devices. Their products, such as the baby heart monitor and fetal doppler, feature advanced technologies including clear LCD displays, high sensitivity for accurate readings, and portability for convenience. These features ensure that expectant parents can monitor their baby's heartbeat with confidence and ease, whether at home or under medical supervision.

Safety and Reliability

Safety is paramount in prenatal monitoring, and AUSHA prioritizes this aspect in the design and manufacturing of their fetal heart monitors. Rigorous adherence to medical standards and quality control measures ensures that their devices are safe for both the expectant mother and the developing baby, providing peace of mind during each monitoring session.

Integrating Technology with Care

In the digital age, AUSHA blends cutting-edge technology with compassionate care to support expectant families. Their fetal heart monitors are not only effective diagnostic tools but also integrate seamlessly into modern lifestyles. Whether through wireless connectivity options or user-friendly interfaces, AUSHA's devices prioritize user comfort and convenience without compromising on accuracy or reliability.

Customer-Centric Approach

Beyond product excellence, AUSHA emphasizes exceptional customer service and support. They prioritize user education, ensuring that expectant parents are well-informed about the proper use and benefits of their fetal doppler devices. Accessible customer support channels and a commitment to addressing user inquiries further reinforce AUSHA's dedication to customer satisfaction.

Conclusion

The journey of pregnancy is a remarkable chapter in life, marked by milestones that shape the beginning of a new family. Early pregnancy monitoring with advanced tools like the Doppler fetal monitor exemplifies how technology can enrich this journey, providing invaluable insights and fostering a deeper connection between parents and their baby. AUSHA's leadership in fetal monitoring technology underscores their commitment to enhancing the pregnancy experience, empowering families to monitor their baby's health with confidence and care.

As medical technology continues to evolve, AUSHA remains at the forefront, delivering innovative solutions that prioritize safety, reliability, and the emotional well-being of expectant parents. By integrating state-of-the-art technology with compassionate care, AUSHA ensures that each pregnancy journey is supported with the tools and insights needed to promote a healthy and joyful beginning for every family.

[adiemed]

Electrocardiógrafos en Adiemed

Descubre los mejores electrocardiógrafos del mercado en Adiemed.

Además, tenemos pulsioxímetros, ecógrafos y holters ECG.

[deebbiemedzer]

Ultrasound Fetal Doppler Ultrasound frequency=2-5-mhz; FHR measurement range=50-bpm-240-bpm-error-plusmn-1bpm; Device classification=class-equipment-nbsp-lt-hr-gt-mainframe-ipx0-nbsp-probe-ipx4; Probes=; Ultrasound output power=10-mw-cm-lt-sup-gt-2-lt-sup-gt-maximum;Shop Online at Medzer.com

[shotmrmiller]

The start of a journey

A small drabble of a thought that had me awake at an unreasonable hour because how cute is HE PLEASE GOD.

Dadtobe!simon who when you told him you were pregnant, he sat quietly on the sofa without saying much. You were so worried he didn’t want the baby due to his history with his family— but in reality, he was so shocked. How can he deserve such a precious gift from life when all he does for a living is take them? He sees your eyes watery with unshed tears and quickly grabs your hands to reassure you that this may have not been planned but it is a gift unworthy of a bad man such as he and he already loves you both. 

Dadtobe!simon is the one who looks up what foods help alleviate nausea so when you’re heaving over your toilet, he’s already in the kitchen getting some cold apple juice and saltines just in case you could stomach them this time.

Dadtobe!simon is pressed that you’re choosing to have a home water birth with a midwife instead of the hospital because “What if you need immediate medical attention? We’d have to get you to a hospital and that’s time wasted.”

“ The baby and I will be okay. The midwife will be keeping an eye on my vitals and if anything went south, they’d be getting us to a hospital before I really needed to be in one. Besides, I want an unmedicated labor in the comfort of my own home.”

“Alright, love. But if anything looks even slightly wrong, I’m getting you out o’ here. Clear?” “Crystal, sir.” 

“Cheeky.”

Dadtobe!simon personally bought an at-home fetal doppler to hear the baby’s heartbeat whenever he couldn’t make it to the monthly OB appointments. He helps you lie down on the sofa, hips propped up on a pillow, and he’d get the doppler gel from the warmer because he CANNOT have you uncomfortable so long he can help it. Skin goosepimpling with the warm gel, he starts rubbing it on your lower stomach with the probe and puts light pressure— doing circular motions to try and find the distinct, rhythmic thumps of the baby’s heart. He catches it, a fast beating, _strong_ heartbeat, and ups the volume.

“There ya are, my little sprog.” 

Dadtobe!simon gets up from the warm cocoon of the bed and out into the cold, rainy streets because the Missus is craving butter pickle spears and marinara sauce and he is a humble servant to your wants and needs. Butter pickles though, seriously?

Dadtobe!simon who has had all of the Sprog’s necessities ready to go from the beginning. The cot and moses basket, assembled. Nappies, baby bottles, and dummies are all bought and stored away. If the baby can use it, it’s in the house put together and clean. Ruthlessly efficient. 

Dadtobe!simon doesn’t let you pick up anything heavier than a jug of milk because “You don’t need to be doin’ any heavy liftin’, it’s what you got me here for, love.” And you aren’t above _not_ being extra pampered because you’ve always hated putting the groceries up anyway.

Dadtobe!simon usually sleeps spooning you but now you’ve got the maternity pillow swaddling your front, a pillow in between your thighs and another underneath your hips and supporting your lower back because your heavy stomach puts so much pressure on your body, but your mountain of pillows helps you rest as best you can. Simon can almost physically see the aches alleviate when you lie down so he doesn’t complain about the lack of cuddles nor how he’s been essentially shoved into a space the size of a twin bed on your California king. 

Dadtobe!simon who squeezes the heel, kneads the instep, and presses the pads of his thumbs into the balls of your swollen feet— you’re carrying extra weight after all, and as you’re groaning in relief you start crying because look at how large you’ve gotten. You not having puffy, achy ankles is a miracle and how can he still love you looking like this? He grabs both of your feet and peppers kisses from the toes to the ankle you seem to hate because how can he not love you. Especially like this. Your body is sacrificing comfort to bring his little babe into the world for him to meet. All the changes you seem to hate— the stretch marks, the extra weight, the not-so-tight skin— to him it’s perfection. You’re perfect. He’s never really lived before you and now he can’t imagine living without you. The both of you. 

Adieu.

[peachesofteal]

Simon praising Darling for being a good girl when she announces she’s pregnant 😮‍💨 like I’m sorry sir, who gave you the right to be so damn hot when you’re FICTIONAL?!

And Darling is just confused af about wtf he means. Like does she ever find out they fucked with her BC and knocked her up?? I must know, I must have more 😈🤭

He's like, 'you've done so well, darling' and she's like 'wait, what the fuck just happened?'

AU - not canon for Dead Disco Warnings-tags: 18+ Minors DNI. Brief mention of smut, mature themes. Angst. Vomiting. Doctors. Pregnant reader. Relationship issues. Dark themes.

"I've got ya." Johnny coos while he rubs your back where you are kneeling over the toilet, breakfast and bile coming up your throat with every other heave.

"I hate this." you moan between pants, propping your arm up to rest your head. He clucks his tongue, standing to run a cloth under the sink and returning to press it to your forehead gently. It's cold, and soft, and moving in easy circles.

"I know, darling. I know." You push away, slumping into his arms, letting him cuddle you close while he leans back against the bathroom wall and you count his heartbeats from where your head lays on his chest.

The door creaks open, and Simon's halfway inside, peering down at the two of you, mild concern in his eyes while he studies your slouching form.

"Third time today." He notes with a frown, and you nod. They count, keep track of everything, so they can recall it for your doctor's visits and make sure everything is still within 'normal' range. Morning sickness, your doctor has assured them too many times to count, is very normal.

"Morning sickness, the nausea, vomiting, is all normal."

"She's sick multiple times a day." Simon grits out. Johnny shifts his weight nervously, while you sigh and pat his hand comfortingly.

"If we were seeing drastic weight loss, or the panels were coming back outside of normal range, I would be concerned. But that's not happening. So, you've nothing to worry about." You give her a relieved smile, and hope they'll actually listen this time, although you know it's kind of pointless. "So," she claps her hands, and then motions to the table, and Johnny visibly brightens. This is everyone's favorite part, the ultrasound. You always glue your eyes to the screen, holding you breath to see the baby, the little blob in black and grey, your own little bean. You're obsessed with the sound of the heartbeat, taking comfort in its strength, its steadiness. So much so you bought a fetal doppler, just so you could all hear it at home. "Should we take a peek?"

"I'm fine." you assure him, holding a hand out. "Help me up." He grips you by your elbow, pulling you to your feet and into him briefly, so he can nuzzle his nose into your hair with a deep breath. "Now get out, I'm gross. Need to wash my face." You insist, pushing both him and Johnny into the hallway playfully before closing the door.

You have a lot of drawers, in this bathroom. Almost all of them actually, and most of them are a bit of a mess, unorganized, things strewn about. Sometimes, like now, you have to dig around for things. You're looking for something specific, a heavier moisturizer, one that can combat some of the dryness around your nose. Your fingers flip through tubes and tubs and creams, old mascara and half busted hair clips. You tsk, irritated that you're having a hard time finding the blue jar, until-

Your fingers brush against your old birth control pack. Encased in a cream colored piece of plastic, little pills lined up in a row. Just the sight of it frustrates you. After so many years, it finally failed. Finally let you down.

You don't know, but you pull it out. Maybe to look at it closer, to see if it will be expired by the time you finally need it again, or maybe, just to look at the thing that was your one constant since you were practically a child.

Either way. You study it closer, and that's how you notice the corner of the pill tray. The little foil piece on the corner is lifted, just a smidge, just enough for you not to notice, but when you peel it, it comes away so easily, so perfectly, with minimal adhesive. Like's it been pulled away before and put back in place. Like it's been moved.

When you realize, the floor room spins. It shudders around you, bathroom walls curving closer and closer to where you stand in front of the sink, eyes wide, dumbfounded. They wouldn't. They wouldn't. Would they? You blink at yourself in the mirror. You look, tired, but mostly healthy, a true testament to absolute hovering that has been occurring in your life over the past five months. You never lift a finger, you don't want for anything.

Because you're pregnant.

Because you're pregnant, with their baby, that you thought you got knocked up with on accident.

Your stomach curdles. They did this on purpose. Your fingers clench against the stone of the sink while you remember, all those nights when they pressed you to the mattress and made you see stars, while they filled you with their come over and over, every day. They were actively trying. They wanted this. A giant black hole rips open inside of you. It sucks your joy, your happiness, your dreams of future into it immediately. It dismantles everything you thought you knew as truth, takes a hammer and smashes apart every single second of the last five months.

They took your choice away. You stomach flips, and the you’re flinging yourself back in front of the toilet, bile spewing on your lips while you dry heave. It burns, the sting matching the sear of the tears that track down your face.

How could they do this?

[bredslut]

You already look especially good for 17 weeks pregnant, sometimes I wonder how amazing you're going to look at full term. You're going to be so big, round, and heavy, not even the clothes from the maternity section will fit you anymore. All you'll be able to do is waddle from side to side in your bare feet around the house with your jeans unzipped and wearing just a nursing bra. Getting up itself will be a chore, but why get up when you could lay back and watch as an entire baby moves and squirms inside of your womb. The sight of a fetal kick eclipsing your toenail polish, the sensation from within, the sound of a heartbeat thundering away through the doppler speaker, all of it a constant reminder that you're creating life in your big beautiful belly. You're not just pregnant, you're a baby factory of love.

This is 🥵🥵 hot as hell. To be honest I already don't fit much in the maternity section. Those are for those tiny women in their first pregnancy with just a cute little baby bump. Not for women like me, round and soft all over and constantly growing with our babies. My whole body changed and taken over by my belly.

By third trimester I bet I won't even be able to squeeze jeans onto my thighs and hips anymore. I love walking around the house with just a bra and sweats, my belly on full display. I love being a baby factory ❤️

[ladylooch]

Best Thing I’ll Ever Do - Lio x Savannah (Part 5)

A/N: All I have to say about this one is I hope you love it as much as me. It had EVERYTHING we all wanted 🥹

Welcome to the world, Gracie Meier.

ICYMI: Part 1 | Part 2| Part 3 | Part 4

Word Count: 4.5k

At 6 in the morning, Lio Meier watches his wife from the dark shadows of their condo hallway. Savannah is standing at the kitchen island, watching the sunrise over the East Coast. One hand rests on the bottom of her big belly and the other rests on the counter in front of her. The grey quartz helps cools her warm palm so she can bring it to her chest, placing it there to offer some grounding. 

Today is the day their daughter will enter the world, in her own time, as predicted. Savannah was scheduled to be induced tomorrow, on her due date, but his wife already knows their daughter. She predicted there was no way Gracie was going to be told when to come into the world, so she would be choosing today. 

Lio loves watching her parental instincts kick in. He can't wait for that to happen with his own.

Savannah smiles as her hands move to her belly, focusing on her breathing with big puffed out lips. Her eyebrows lower in concentration. She tilts her face down, watching her muscles tighten while she sways side to side, legs spread wide for a steady base. Lio pushes off from resting against the wall, feigning a yawn as he steps out into the living room. 

“What are you grinning at so early?” Lio asks. He squints at her across the room, one eye open the other shut tight in protest of the growing sunlight.

“She’s coming, Lee.” Savannah murmurs. Both his eyes are open now, glittering in excitement.

“Should we go?” He wonders.

“No, it’s not time yet. I will let you know.”

Lio nods, scratching at the slight beard he has growing on his cheeks. He yawns, coming behind her to cup her big bump.

“Gonna miss this.”

Savannah sighs, stroking her fingers down his forearms to rest between the spaces of his spread fingers. She sways them gently, then closes her eyes, feeling the next contraction coming. Lio holds her through it, kissing along her shoulder encouragingly. 

“You’re incredible.” He reminds her. 

“I can’t believe we are here.” She whispers to him. Her fingers crawl up his arm, going to the back of his neck to hold their heads together. 

“We made it, mama.”

“Like you knew we would.”

Savannah’s anxieties around pregnancy did not disappear after that first ultrasound. She kept waking up with night terrors, clutching her belly while sobbing that she was going to lose it. This was a trying time for them. Lio didn’t quite know what to do with his wife. On the one hand, he understood exactly why this was so hard for her. On the other, he couldn’t understand why she wasn’t leaning into the miracle this all was. The way this was their destiny, to be parents to their miracle girl.

Apprehensive about her mental health, Lio didn’t talk those things through with his wife. He talked them through with Connor and his dad. Both men listened and offered support where they could. It was Connor who really helped Lio figure out what to do for her though.

“Think about the dark days of your concussion, if there was a way that you could have known your brain was okay, that you were going to heal, you would have wanted that, right? What could that be for her in this moment?”

It took Lio a little bit of thinking, but then a brilliant idea popped into his head: A fetal doppler. He bought one online and had it at the house within a week. When Savannah had her next night terror, her and Lio listened to the baby’s heartbeat fill their room, a strong reminder that she was there and growing within mama’s womb.

The most important tool was the mental health work both him and Savannah have stayed committed to with this pregnancy. They go to therapy separately still, but did schedule a few counseling sessions together with a neutral therapist in the beginning. This was a big life change, one Lio had said countless times he didn’t want. Savannah had to be sure this new direction was truly okay with him. Their therapist helped guide their conversations to express their true feelings and emotions, bringing them closer together than ever.

Little things also started to turn Savannah’s anxieties into excitement. She kept growing, out of all the clothes she had in her closet and got to go shopping with Lucie for maternity clothes. They got to tell her parents and his parents about their surprise news! Her and Lio’s cousin, Mack, are pregnant at the same time and Savannah has loved having someone to commiserate with. Savannah and Lio bought baby books and started clearing out their spare room to begin buying baby furniture. Savannah had three different baby showers- one with the Meiers, one with her family, and one with her closest, influencer friends. Her and their baby girl have been showered with so much love, that it healed Savannah down to her core.

By the time she got into the third trimester, it was real and wonderful. Savannah and Lio connected deeply. They disappeared into their little world, waiting impatiently for the day when their daughter would arrive. The two soon to be parents became even more impatient after Mack and David welcomed their son a few weeks earlier. The clock has been ticking, all eyes on Savannah. Yesterday morning, she told Lio she felt different. She couldn’t put her finger on it, but something was shifting in her. She could sense that this moment was close.

And now it is here. 

Lio inhales deeply, feeling himself getting emotional about today being the day.

“Are you ready, Lee? To be someone’s daddy?” She asks, scratching at the hairs on the back of his head. 

“Yes, baby. As ready as I’ll ever be.”

- - -

Lio wasn’t exactly sure what to expect from labor, but he knows it wasn’t this. Savannah had been progressing along well at home, but once they got into the hospital, she stalled significantly. She is currently resisting the idea of Pitocin, not wanting to have to race to the finish line or force their daughter out before she is ready. 

“In her time.” She keeps telling Lio. 

At some point, it won’t be in the baby’s time. It will be in the doctor’s.

Savannah is laying on her side, eyes closed, holding Lio’s hand as she tries to rest for a few moments. She is tired after not getting much sleep the night before. Lio is tired too, but more than anything else he is anxious. He wants this baby out. He wants her in her mama’s arms, where he can get eyes and hands on her- finally. His fingers twitch on his other hand. His leg begins to bounce up and down with jittery energy he can’t seem to expel fast enough. 

“Go take a walk.” Savannah says, releasing his hand. Her eyes remain closed. 

“Am I annoying you?” He chuckles.

“Yes.” She responds pointedly.

“Okay.”

He knows when he isn’t wanted. This is their journey, but her birth experience. So, he trolls up and down the hallway. Every time he passes her room, he peeks in, still seeing her on her side in the dark. After his fifteenth pass down the hallway, he pulls his phone out, responding to Lucie’s text.

Send us updates when you can!

Still nothing.

Stubborn. Like her father 🙄 Do you need anything?

It runs in the family. No we are good.

Your sister is perfect? I think it’s just you, bud.

Liv wouldn’t know. She takes after the Hischiers. Lio smirks. Lucie’ll love that. He glances to the left into Savannah’s room. She is sitting up, looking uncomfortable. He shoves his phone back into his pocket, going to her side.

“How we doing?”

“Things are starting to happen, I think.” She has both hands on her belly, rubbing her sides as the monitor picks up the rapid beating of the baby’s heartbeat. “I’m hot.” She complains. Lio pulls the blanket off of her, then collects her hair back into a clip again. “Better.” She sighs, relaxing as her contraction ends.

From there, everything progresses a lot faster. Savannah starts to experience intensifying pain and wants to get her epidural. Lio holds her hands and keeps her distracted through the procedure as she anxiously rubs his knuckles. 

“Doing so good.” He whispers encouragingly. She nods, focusing in on her intentional breathing.

Savannah is an absolute warrior from this point on; It’s Lio that starts to struggle. The baby’s heartbeat keeps doing weird things as she progresses into the birth canal. Savannah knows all the questions to ask and seems assured with the answers they receive. Lio can’t help but feel like something is wrong with the baby. The care team soothes them more, assuring the new parents everything is in order. Savannah takes this with confidence but Lio grows quiet. 

“You okay?” Savannah asks him at one point. 

“Um, I’m nervous.” 

“Yeah, I know. Me too.” She assures him. 

“I want her out.” 

“Me too.” Savannah agrees, chuckling. The drugs are making her experience a lot easier than it was an hour ago. “What would help?”

“Don’t worry about me.” Lio sits up, giving her an encouraging kiss. “I’m gonna grab you some more ice chips.”

“Okay.” She smiles, knowingly. He needs to walk again. 

On his walk down to the machine, he pulls his phone out again, texting Lucie.

Can you come? Just sit in the lobby so I know you’re here?

Yes! She responds immediately. 

Twenty minutes later, as Savannah is about to start pushing, his phone buzzes on the table.

We are here for Team Meier! She says, sending a picture of her and Connor in the lobby. He smiles, showing his wife.

“I asked them to come.” He fills her in.

“Great idea... Why do I feel so much better knowing they’re here?” She asks her husband.

“Because they’ve done this twice. I don’t know that’s how I felt.” But also, he couldn’t really imagine having this moment with his two best friends close by.

The energy in the room shifts considerably when Savannah begins to push. Gone is the quiet glow of laboring and in it’s place is the determination of an entire team to get this baby Earth side. Even Lio’s nerves subside. He feels like it’s the third period, defending a lead, focused in on the end goal which is so much more than a regulation win. 

Instead, it’s the bridge to the rest of their lives: being a parent.

Lio holds Savannah’s left leg in his hand, the other gripping her hand with every push. He rubs his fingers over her wedding rings soothingly, pressing into the prongs holding her diamonds in place to keep himself centered on their love. Savannah is doing really well, getting compliments on her pushes from the nurses and doctors. 

“First time mama is rocking this!” Dr. Barnes cheers.

Lio’s curiosity has him leaning a little farther to his left with each push Savannah has.

“Oh we are so close.” Dr. Barnes grins.

Lio can’t resist. He has to look. He tilts his head around and down, gasping at the head full of hair he can clearly see. He gapes at his wife who laughs at his wide eyes.

“Oh babe! Do that again! She just came out a little more.” Lio exclaims at her laughter. “Wait is this okay?” He asks Savannah as she exhales heavily, looking away quickly.

“Yes.” She nods, determination pinching her forehead. Lio never would have envisioned this for himself. He even howled out a ‘hell no’ when Connor asked if he was going to watch. But something about this room and this experience is changing everything for Lio.

He watches every single second of his daughter’s birth from that point on. Her head comes out, filled with light brown hair, then they maneuver her little shoulders out. The rest of her flies out after that. He gazes in complete awe as they lift her over Savannah’s belly and put her on her mama’s chest. Towels go over her bare body as Lio’s eyes blur with tears.

She is here.

“Hi mom and dad!” Dr. Barnes squeals over the baby’s screaming. “I’m here! I’m really here!” 

“Oh my god.” Savannah sobs. “She’s here! Lee, she’s here! I love you, baby. So much.” 

Lio can’t speak. Everything is different. He is being reborn in this very moment where he stands in a New Jersey hospital. A strangled sob clogs his throat. He exhales heavily then gets his hands on his girls as fast as they will move. He stares at his wife, drinking in every movement of her face as she looks down at the baby they fought like hell for, not even realizing they were half the time. 

“Babe…” Lio whispers, getting her attention. She looks at him, blue eyes wild, blonde hair whisping out of her claw clip. “I…” He wishes he had the words to describe anything about what he feels in his soul right now. The love he has for her. The love he has for their daughter. How he will never, ever let anything happen to them. But it comes out only in three words: “I love you.”

“I love you.” She repeats back to him. 

Then, he turns to his daughter, who has rearranged the entire universe around herself in a nanosecond. Lio has been acting like a father since the moment he suspected Savannah may be pregnant, but now in this moment he gets to be one.

He gets to be hers.

“Hi Gracie. I love you." Lio says, rubbing his fingers along the feet that used to kick his mouth when he kissed Savannah’s belly. Having her skin against his turns Lio’s insides electric. He grins, running his hand up her little body to collect over his wife’s hand on her back. Their fingers fold together. Savannah looks up at him, a million different emotions going across her face.

All Lio can manage is to kiss her again while they hold their daughter.

As soon as Lio gets the chance to step away, he comes out to the lobby to look for his best friends. He immediately sees Lucie and Connor, leaning into each other, watching something on Connor’s phone. Lucie sees him first, eyes drifting up from the small screen. She shoots up, grinning as Lio comes closer.

“She’s here.” He sighs.

“YES!” Lucie squeals, jumping up and down. She launches into Lio’s arms, who picks her up and spins her around. “Is she perfect!? Oh Lee, she’s perfect isn’t she!?!?!” Lucie asks when he puts her back on her feet.

“Completely.” He murmurs. 

“I’m so proud of you.” Connor clasps Lio on the back as they hug tightly. “Welcome to the girl dad club, buddy.”

“It's an honor to be a member." He responds incredulously. "Thank you for coming. It helped us both.” 

“Good. We are happy to do our part. Ignore the texts we sent you about it taking too long.” Lio chuckles.

“I haven’t even checked my phone.”

“Scroll right past Connor’s comments about a grill.”

“What?” Lio asks, confused.

“The sign over there says I can’t bring in a grill. Who did that? Who brought in a fucking grill into the hospital that they had to call that out on a sign?”

“Probably weirdos like you.” She slaps his stomach. “I’m so hungry.” She mocks her husband. “That’s all I heard during Winnie’s birth. Like I hadn’t eaten in 18 hours, but sure buddy. Tell me more about your hunger pains.” Connor frowns.

“Why are you harping on me? I brought you a boat of sushi after that.”

“And ate three quarters of it. So what’s your daughter’s name?” Lucie asks, turning the conversation away from them.

“Gracie.”

“GRACIE!!!!!” Lucie squeals. “Oh my god that is so perfect.” She sighs dreamily,

“Everything about her is perfect. You should come meet her.”

They both noticeably perk up.

“Wait, are you sure? We definitely don’t expect that you’re ready for visitors.”

“Yes, we all are. Sav wants to see you.” 

“Okay.” Lucie says, clutching her throat. “Oh my god, I’m already crying.” She hiccups as they start to walk down the hallway. Lio throws his arm over her shoulders. Lucie squeezes herself into his side. Connor trails behind, allowing them their moment of celebration together. 

Lio and Lucie get to the doorway of the room, where Lio breaks away to check that Savannah is ready. Then he comes back around the curtain, pushing it back so they can enter. Lucie gasps at the baby bundled up in the hospital blanket.

“Hi! Oh my god.” She sobs losing it completely as she comes to hug Savannah. “How are you? Look at this perfect little peach you made! I’m sorry we don’t have flowers or balloons or anything. We didn’t think we would see you. It’s all at home.”

“Don’t worry about it. We are so glad you’re here. Say hi to Auntie Luc, Gracie.” 

“An aunt twice in under a month. You and Mack are killing me.” Lucie sighs, collecting Gracie from Savannah’s hands after washing hers. She curls the baby into her chest, looking down at the best new addition. Lio watches with Connor from across the room, smiling with pride as his ride or die holds onto his whole world. 

“This is the best thing you have ever done for me.” Lucie sniffs to her cousin.

“Makes you want another huh?” Connor asks.

“No, shut up.” Lucie snaps. Savannah laughs. 

“You were right. This shit is hard.”

“I know, but haven’t you already kind of forgotten?” Lucie smirks at her.

‘“Yeah… what is that?”

“Hormones. Get ready for the ride of your life girl.” Lucie shakes her head. “But honestly, it’s so amazing. This time goes so fast. Soak it all in. Every little noise and movement and new milestone. Everyone will tell you this and you have to know it goes even faster than they say.” Lucie murmurs as she strokes the peach fuzz on Gracie's face. “Wow, Sav, I don’t think you have anything on this baby. She looks like Livy!” 

Lio grins across the room when Lucie says that because he thought the same thing when he saw her.

“Your parents are gonna die when they see her.” 

Lio calls his parents later that night to introduce them to Gracie, then requests for them to come to the hospital the following day to meet her in person. Connor and Lucie were enough visitors for the first day. After ending the call with his parents, he rotates through his siblings and his cousins, including Mack and David who put her barely older cousin on the screen so he can say hi too. He sleeps through the whole thing. But it's nice that Lio and Mack finally have something to bond over.

The rest of the night is filled with diaper changes, feedings, burping, and learning how to take care of a newborn for both Lio and Savannah. Everything that happens, they try to do as a team. It’s surprisingly fun to be figuring it out together. 

The next morning, Savannah takes another shower and puts on some make up to feel a little more human. She sheds the weird billowing hospital gown and slides into soft, forgiving pajamas that Lucie had recommended. Lio steps out to grab some coffee for the two of them, then comes back with a few pastries for Savannah to choose from. They eat together, staring down at Gracie nursing while falling back asleep.

Lio’s phone buzzing on the tray have them both startling out of their baby trance.

“Oh maybe your parents are here?”

“I think so.” He says, looking at his phone to see his mom’s text. “I'm going to go grab them from the lobby.” He responds. He kisses her- long and proud- then does the same to Gracie’s dark hair. “I love you.” He tells both his girls. Then he heads out of the room.

He rushes a hand through his hair, blinking away the grit he feels in his blue eyes. Since they arrived here, everything has been a total blur. His feet practically float along the bright tile of the hospital as he follows the signs to the lobby. He stretches his shoulders and neck, then pushes through the doors. The lobby is relatively quiet for a Monday, but it spreads across both sides of the walkway. He looks left, not seeing them.

“Lee! Baby!” He hears his mom to his right. He turns, seeing her launch out of her chair. Her hand is still tightly gripping his dad’s as he stands too. 

“I have a daughter.” He says with a relieved sigh and smile. Last time he saw them, he didn’t have a daughter. They had weeks to go and no name for her yet.

“Yay!” Emma cheers, tears building in her brown eyes. She opens her arms, collecting her first baby into her arms. Lio breathes in the scent of her flower perfume beneath his nose. “Congratulations, Lio.” Her hand falls to the back of his head. He feels his dad’s hand press into the middle of his shoulders so both his parents are hugging him. Lio’s hands tighten around his mom, feeling extremely emotional. Hot tears leak from his lashes as they stay there, huddled together in a bundle of love. 

“We are so proud of you.” Timo murmurs, rubbing Lio’s back over his shirt.

“Thank you. But it was all her.” He says, speaking of his wife.

“How is she?”

“Good. She did so good, mama. Soooo good. Like she was made for that moment.” He says, pulling away from the hug. He moves to his dad, hugging him just as tightly as he did his mom. He is so grateful his parents are here.

“Love you.” He sighs to his dad, letting his face fall to his shoulder for a moment. 

“I love you so much, Lio. I’m so happy you get to know what this feels like.” The older Meier tells him.

“I get it.” He pulls away. He grabs his mom’s hand so she is part of this too. “ I completely understand what it feels like now to want to do anything in your power to protect your kid. I’ve known her less than a day, but I’d die for her. Everything is about her. I get it.”

Timo wraps an arm around his wife, who tangles her fingers in his hanging off her shoulder. There were so many moments Lio’s parents worried about their missteps with him. He was the first, a total surprise when they were nowhere near ready. They certainly stumbled while raising him, but looking at the man he is now, despite those things, has both of them feeling an immense amount of pride for their boy.

“That’s all you need to know about being a father. You learned it all in a day.” Timo jokes.

“No, I have a lot to learn. Hopefully you can teach me some things.” Lio says. “Wanna learn from the best.”

“You better call Uncle Neeks.” Timo smiles, slightly teary at the compliment. 

“We all see how Lucie turned out…” Lio chuckles. “Don’t tell her I said that.” He says immediately. “Do you want to meet your granddaughter?”

Both his parents nod excitedly. Together they walk back to Savannah’s room. She looks up happily when the three of them walk in. 

“Hi honey!” Emma exclaims to Savannah. She completely ignores the baby, checking in only with mama right away. “How are you doing?”

“I’m good. Drunk on the craziest love I’ve ever felt.” Emma grins.

“Bless the hormones that make you forget.” Emma shakes her head. “Congratulations, sweetheart. We love you so much and are so proud of you. You have handled this really hard journey with such grace.” Emma winks.

“Thank you.” Savannah smiles. “She was so worth it all.” Lio comes around to the other side of the bed from his mom so he can sit with his wife. 

“So this is Livia Meier 2.0.” Lio chuckles as Gracie is transferred to his mom’s arms from Savannah. “Watch her head.”

“Lio.” Emma laughs heartily. “I have four of these, baby. I know what I’m doing.” Emma’s eye’s drift down. “Oh wow, Livy through and through.” Emma murmurs, stroking her granddaughter’s cheek. “Hi baby. You are incredibly loved.” 

Timo comes to sit next to his wife on the bed. He glides a hand under her arm to hold their granddaughter together. It isn’t long before eyes are misting all over the room. 

The happiness Gracie is bringing to their family is already blossoming into a garden of joy they want to lay in forever. 

- - - 

Two days later, Lio jogs out of the hospital, scanning the attached parking lot for his car. Where did he park it? It’s all fuzzy from when he dropped Savannah off. He shields his eyes from the sun, walking to the left. He is pretty sure he came in from this direction. Eventually, he finds the SUV sitting alone towards the back of the parking lot. Things were a lot busier here during the weekend. 

He climbs into the back seat, then pulls the car around to stop in front of Savannah in a wheelchair. A nurse sits with her and Gracie who is already strapped into her car seat. Savannah stands up as Lio hustles out of the car. 

“Have a safe ride home!” The nurse cheers, then heads back into the sliding glass doors. 

“Home.” Savannah grins. They are both so excited to bring Gracie home and leave the hospital life behind. Sure, they both got a little freaked out earlier this morning, but then seconds dragged on until the staff came in with her and Gracie’s discharge paperwork. By the time they were signing everything, Lio was already pulling his keys out of his pocket to grab the car.

“You ready, baby?” He asks Gracie. She’s passed out, little lips puffed in a pout as she sleeps. “Yeah you are.” He answers for her.

Lio carefully locks Gracie’s car seat in place, double checking the straps on her chest a tenth time. Savannah slides into the other side of the backseat. She reaches for Lio’s hand on the straps. He pauses, seeing the tears on her cheeks. He smiles, leaning across their daughter to kiss his wife. 

“Let’s go home with our girl.” He mumbles into their kiss. 

Lio’s black Mercedes crawls down the New Jersey interstate the few miles back to their building. He has one hand on the wheel, the other on Savannah’s calf in the back seat. 

Savannah can’t see him clearly, but she suspects and confirms when the car stops: Lio cried the whole way home.

Sometimes Lio wishes he could go back to that devastated morning waking up in Switzerland after losing everything over a false alarm pregnancy. He wants to be able to tell himself it is all going to work out, that him and Savannah will find a way back to each other and create a perfect life, more fulfilling than he was even capable of dreaming about then.

But as he watches his wife adjust their daughter’s hat on her soft head, Lio knows it would be pointless.

Nothing about their current chapter would have been comprehendible to him then. 

He had to live it all to believe it.