Meet Sophia

• Baby Saves

• 08.18.23

“In 2021, I had a stillbirth caused by the umbilical cord being too tightly wrapped around my baby boy’s neck.

When I found out I was pregnant again, I was elated but also incredibly anxious. I knew the pregnancy would be difficult, and I wouldn’t feel any relief until the baby was born safely. Given my history, my doctor encouraged me to download the Count the Kicks app and begin tracking as early as possible. I did it religiously every day, and my baby was very consistent with movements.

At 38 weeks, I noticed my baby’s movements had a slight decrease. I went in for a regular ultrasound, and everything looked fine. They then did a BPP (biophysical profile) ultrasound, and the baby failed the practice breathing portion. A non-stress test showed the baby’s heart was not fluctuating as much as they would like.

They admitted me to the hospital for monitoring for 4 hours. Everything looked fine, but because I knew how much the baby normally moved, I kept telling them that something was wrong. They performed another BPP, and the baby again failed the practice breathing portion.

Because of the failed BPPs and my insistence that the baby was moving less than usual, they induced me immediately. The labor was scary because the baby’s heart kept decelerating quickly, but soon I gave birth to a healthy baby girl (a complete surprise after having three boys!).

After delivery, the doctor discovered a true knot in her umbilical cord. She said this is likely what caused the decreased movement. I am beyond thankful to the Count the Kicks app for helping me stay attuned to my baby’s movements. I know that my knowledge and advocacy (and her big brother in heaven) helped to get her here safely.” -Jenna S., Sophia’s mom