I've been so pleased throughout the 2nd and 3rd trimester to be able to keep up most of my normal activity, but this week has shown a huge dropoff in both motivation and energy. Perhaps its the 3 hours of sleep I am getting a night.
People are starting to comment on how big I am (especially since I've been a late bloomer) and ask me when I am due almost every day. People in general are getting on my nerves, although they also keep it fun and keep my excitement up.
I have my family baby shower this weekend, so wish me luck! Of course, it is outdoors and supposed to rain. *laugh* My mom will just never learn.
I think that is all the updates for now Posted by Damien (Member # 5611) on :
Best of luck to you.
DXM
Posted by St. Yogi (Member # 5974) on :
So, what are you going to name him/her?
Good luck.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
Ah, sleepless nights. You would think your body would want to sleep more to store it up for those sleepless nights after the baby comes. Unfortunately it never works out that way.
Good luck! You are in the home stretch.
By the way, Mooselet is currently in Luck, WI. I am sure that is still far away from you, but closer to you than he is to us right now. Posted by Zalmoxis (Member # 2327) on :
Sounds like you've reached the point where the baby takes over and says: Okay, we've co-existed nicely for a while here, but now I'm completely in charge. Oh yes, and I need all your energy because as I understand it, I'm going to need to do some serious work here soon.
Is Tom doing all the stuff he should be doing? My guess would be that he is, but if he isn't, I'd be happy to e-mail him a tongue-lashing. Just let me know. .
All the best for the next few weeks.
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Have a great time at your shower, Christy! Just remember that those last few weeks are tough on every mom-to-be and keep hangin' in there.
space opera
Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
*kisses Christy* I love you. Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
St. Yogi -- we are having a girl (100% sure ) and will name her one of the following
Rebecca Rose Davidson
Sophia Rose Davidson
Elizabeth Rose Davidson
Mama Squirrel -- Yes, that is still far away from us (and much farther from you!) but hopefully aptly named. Zalmoxis -- My husband absolutely dotes on me. He's doing a good job. Although, I am being too nice and letting him actually get some sleep so he can continue to do a good job supporting me. Edit: and he even beats me to posting to prove it!
Space Opera -- I have a coworker who just gave birth to triplets, which has been great at keeping perspective. I really can't complain even though I may be tired and want to.
[ May 27, 2004, 05:02 PM: Message edited by: Christy ]
Posted by Elizabeth (Member # 5218) on :
"Ah, sleepless nights. You would think your body would want to sleep more to store it up for those sleepless nights after the baby comes."
I think this is training. Seriously. It was the weirdest thing, but I always woke up at 2 AM in those last months, with my first baby. When she was born, she would usually sleep from 10 PM until 2 AM. Weird. Eventually, she slept through the night.
I could not have survived my bed in the last months without some extra foam egg carton padding. I highly recommend it.
Good luck!
Posted by St. Yogi (Member # 5974) on :
quote: St. Yogi -- we are having a girl (100% sure ) and will name her one of the following
Rebecca Rose Davidson Sophia Rose Davidson Elizabeth Rose Davidson
Oh yeah, I remember now. I even suggested a name in the Name the Baby thread (Rosemary)
Posted by Corwin (Member # 5705) on :
I'd rule out Rebecca Rose... Doesn't sound very nice to have two names starting with the same letter. But I think for you to have a lil' Lizzie could be fun Shall we vote ?!
Posted by Kwea (Member # 2199) on :
I like Sophie, not that the vote has any real weight... Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
Passed the 35 week mark, yaay!
The shower went well despite the rain and my mother's nervous breakdown. Anyone need a baby bath? *giggle* We got four and none of them with receipts and two of them out of their box and non-returnable. Of course, the one IN the box is the one I registered for. Spent Memorial Day organizing the nursery It actually looks real now instead of a room full of baby stuff!
Complained to the doctor this week of a really sore spot on my tummy and she thinks it was the little rascal's finger poking me! Ouch! Be nice to mommy!
Posted by beatnix19 (Member # 5836) on :
Good luck guys! It's getting really close now, ahh... sleep, this is something that is only a memory from this point on.
I also must say that the names are all beautiful but I am particularly fond of Sophia Rose, of course, that was my suggestion in the baby naming thread and my oldest does share the same name so I may be a bit biased. Posted by Kama (Member # 3022) on :
quote:Doesn't sound very nice to have two names starting with the same letter
*snort*
<-- Kamila Katarzyna Kudla
Posted by PSI Teleport (Member # 5545) on :
o_O
Posted by Olivetta (Member # 6456) on :
I just noticed I have a bunch of used, but perfectly serviceable sippy cups. The kind with the rubber-y valve, which is replaceable. They won't be of any use until you start giving little sweetums a cup, but they are very handy from that time until they can be trusted not spill stuff. My youngest is still a big spiller, but he's nearly five and doesn't like to be forced to use 'baby cups' anyway. He was using them without the spill-proof valve for a year or so, so I guess it's time.
Anyway, I was going to donate them, but if anybody wants 'em, let me know.
Christy, is there anything that you still need?
Posted by Da_Goat (Member # 5529) on :
I like Sophia the best out of those.
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 433) on :
*Puts in his chips for Sophie as well*
I really like that name, and for some reason I'm not sure of, I think it goes really well with Davidson.
Hobbes Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
Olivia,
We have a Amazon/Toys 'R Us Registry with a few items left. Mostly its just odds and ends. I think we have a good start, but its so hard to know.
We're unsure what we're doing about diapers and so we really don't have any right now. I'm checking with the daycare about cloth. Does anyone have any experience with cloth diapers?
I'm also going to be breastfeeding, but plan on trying to pump when I go back to work.
[ June 03, 2004, 05:24 PM: Message edited by: Christy ]
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I have a few years experience with cloth diapers, but I don't remember any of it. Posted by Olivetta (Member # 6456) on :
Make sure you get a really good pump. That makes all the difference. Posted by romanylass (Member # 6306) on :
Christy- look for a children's consignment shop for the extra baby baths. I sell lots of stuuf, then turn around and buy more for the kids.
I am in my 7th year of exclusive cloth diapering. If you have a question, I can answer it. Do you plan to get all in one diapers, or seperate diaper and cover? Or are you using a service? If you use a service, ask them what day cares in your area they contract with. Your monthly fee would cover both home and day care dipes, without you having to transport.
Also have you chosen a pump? I hope you have a better place to pump than I did! (Please flush before you leave the lactation room)
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Curious. Why do you use cloth diapers? Do you find it easier, or is it because of environmental issues?
Yah, Christy! My sister's baby is due in Sept. I can't wait to be an aunt again; it will be my second neice this year!
space opera
Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
As I, the somewhat nervous and reluctant diaper-changer, have had it explained to me, plastic diapers are basically one of the biggest threats to continued civilization on this planet; very soon, if something isn't done, entire cities will be dwarfed by towering, migrating landfills made up almost exclusively of diapers and newspapers from the 1970s.
Posted by Olivetta (Member # 6456) on :
Actually, disposeable diapers compost very easily, as most brands are very biodegradable. Just as there are cloth diapering services, many cities have diaper composting services. They turn the diapers into landscaping grade mulch, I think, since I'm fairly certain it couldn't be used on vegetable gardens (but I don't know for sure).
The pros of disposeable diapers- they're handy and you never have to touch them again. Also, they tend to have fewer problems with diper rash and stuff. The downside is that they generally keep the babies' so dry-feeling that it tends to take longer to potty-train them. Most cloth diaper babies are potty-trained by age two, and I think the average for disposeable diaper babies is two and a half. Usually, boys take longer than girls, I'm told.
I wanted to do cloth diapers, but Ron (ever a coprophobe) said he would never touch a cloth diaper (I think he lied, but he found the diaper composting place, so we could do the disposeable diaper thing with a clean conscience).
Robert had to have surgery on his privates at one point, so we had to use disposeable dipes then, anyway, because the risk of complications was higher with cloth.
Thank you, Tom and Christy, for reminding me how nice it is not to have to change any diapers anymore. Still have to wipe the occasional bottom, but mostly not. *happy*
Edit: Compost, not compose.
[ June 04, 2004, 10:04 AM: Message edited by: Olivetta ]
Posted by romanylass (Member # 6306) on :
Aside from ecology ( the very big one to me)
1)Economy. I am way too cheap to use something once and throw it out. That just realllly bugs me. #3 is wearing dipes and covers we bought for #1. You can buy cloth dipes 2nd hand. Then when they are worn out, you can use them as rags ( in place of paper towels, or to clean the car, etc.) They can double as a bib, or burp rag, or just for general clean up.
2) I have asthma, so disposables are a very bad idea. I work in child care , so do end up having to change disposables. Some I can handle, other brands , like the Pampers Supreme, I have to pass the job on or I will have trouble breathing.
3) The chemicals, I just think that is unhealthy. The two times I had to take a diapered child on interstate trips, I got Tushies, which are chemical free disposables. Really not a LOT more expensive than the chemical laden stuff.
I'll shut up now, I could go on for pages about diapers.
Posted by Ela (Member # 1365) on :
Christy, I offer you my services as the official Hatrack Lactation Consultant.
If you email me your address, I'll send you a packet of information to get you started, including whatever pump info I can find.
You won't need a pump right away, unless you have some kind of problem. Initially, you need to get the baby to the breast often to develop your milk supply. When you go back to work, you will need an easy to use, efficient pump, especially if you are going back fulltime, and you should decide if you want to buy or rent.
Feel free to ask me any questions you have. Posted by Kama (Member # 3022) on :
Wow. Cloth diapers in America are so different than the ones I was used to seeing here. And you have companies to deal with them? Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
What are cloth diapers in Poland? Squares of burlap?
Posted by Kama (Member # 3022) on :
Yup.
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
Ela -- Thanks! Its nice to have some veteran advice Email sent. I've bought the manual Avent Isis. I've read that it is the best manual pump out there, but it is still a manual.
Romanylass -- I've been thinking about Nicki's diapers; the pocket diapers, which are a bit cheaper than the all-in-one's but seem to have similar ease of use. We're waiting to hear from the daycare, though, whether or not they will support cloth diapers. I was going to try to wash them myself. This seems like a bit of work, but I do like the economy and ecological benefits. I will check out diaper composting, though, Olivia if we do end up going that route. Tom has been a bit skeptical as well, although I think he is skeptical in general of diapers.
Edit: *laugh* We have a storage closet on the floor above mine that the four pregnant ladies are going to use as a "milking parlor" (I work in a Dairy Forage center, ha-ha!) I told the other women (who have all had their babies now, but only one is back at work already) that we need to make it a bit more comfortable. Of course, I might just decide to use my office, but it depends if someone else is moved in there or not. Right now it looks like it'll just be me. It is nice to have four of us, though, because I think they will be great support and perhaps I can even "borrow" some of their supplies. Two are on their second child and so are a bit more experienced. The other new mom has triplets!!
[ June 04, 2004, 09:12 PM: Message edited by: Christy ]
Posted by jexx (Member # 3450) on :
Christy,
Here is another cloth diaper site (a friend of mine) to check out. Baby Bunkin
There are forums on there to discuss breastfeeding, cloth diapering, etc., as well as articles on cloth diapering.
I also vote for Sophia Rose, but I am not averse to Rebecca Rose. I *like* the alliteration. *smile*
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
I'm so excited for you Christy!
Lansinoh. Get some, if you haven't already. 'Nuff said.
Breast pump: Manual's fine...I had one with the first two. My sister bought me a new Evenflo Comfort Select electric/battery pump a few weeks ago. Wonderful! Much easier to use, adjustable speed... He got a poor latch one night and cracked my nipple. Pumping it gently and letting him nurse from the bottle (just for that breast) for a couple of days, and it's all better.
Diapers: Can I send you a dozen or two plain flat cloth diapers? And maybe a dozen of the "pre-folded" ones? My mother bought me 6 dozen of each! I still have the ones I used for Dan & Jen! Well, most of them anyway. A few have been relegated to dustrag duty...
Disposeables are invaluable when travelling, but I use cloth at home (most of the time) and wash them myself. Keep about two gallons of water with 1/4 cup of bleach in it in your diaper pail (one with a lid!) to keep down odors. The bleach comes out when you wash them. Yes, it makes them wear out faster, but the odor control is worth it.
Still have the extra baths? Want to trade? I have lots of Jen's clothes too...
Edit: Disposeable diapers: expensive does NOT equal better. I like White Cloud brand...I think that's the Wal-mart brand. Face it, they all catch poop, but this brand does a good job, very few leaks, features just like the high dollar brands, and very inexpensive, considering. And they've never irritated my children's hineys.
[ June 04, 2004, 10:11 PM: Message edited by: Boon ]
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I and all my sibs wore cloth diapers, and so did my three (same service as my mom used for the three sibs who were babies here).
Cloth diapers, in my experience, are LESS likely to cause a rash IF they are really laundered well (hard to do at home, but not impossible), and changed as often as they should be. Also, most services will give them a special pH-altering rinse that helps treat an existing rash.
Diaper services are WONDERFUL. If you can't afford one the whole time (or would rather not spend the money), get one for the first month.
Actually . . . if you like, I can find out what services serve your area, and if someone(s) want to share this with me, I'd love to help gift you with a month of diaper service.
I found one. Linky I think you are in their service area, yes?
[ June 04, 2004, 10:29 PM: Message edited by: rivka ]
Posted by jexx (Member # 3450) on :
I don't know if my child was a mutant (well, he is, hehe) or if I was just lucky, or what, but I can't recall him ever having a diaper rash. (He wore disposables, and fairly cheap ones) Of course, we were in Arizona most of his diaper years, and it is very dry there anyway, that might have something to do with it.
I second the Lansinoh motion (I never remember the name of it, but I will ALWAYS remember what it looks like--purple tube--my Friend). I had a battery-operated breast pump and I didn't care for it. I got pretty good at expressing manually.
The last weeks of pregnancy, I slept with a body pillow between my legs. Way comfy.
Also: sleep when the baby sleeps. I'm sure you've heard that before, but it can't be repeated often enough, IMO. I got really complacent when my son was new, because he slept very well. When he was about two months old, he woke often in the night. Surprised the heck out of me. Sleeping patterns shifted. I was grumpy. Heh.
Since you have already had a baby shower, this may not even be addressable, but have you thought of having a "Pack n Play" bassinet/playpen next to the bed for the first few months? That's what we did, and it was verrrry helpful for night feedings.
Posted by Elizabeth (Member # 5218) on :
Cloth diapers:
We used them for the first six months with our first baby. My grandmother bought us a service. it was great, but after solid food poops started to hit, we said good-bye to our environmentally conscious decision, and bought the cushy, clothlike disposable dipes. By child number two, we were buyers of the cheapest diaper on sale in the store. Sad, but true.
Breastfeeding:
Take any and all advice. I figured it would be natural. It was not. My nipples are invrted, and it was harder for the baby to latch on at first. I let her latch on any old way, and suffered terribly as a result.
I did not like the La Leche League book at all. I used(the second time around) "A Nursing Mother's Companion."
I had the most success with a hand held pump. I could squeeze out a bottle in under ten minutes, while hiding in the darkroom of the school for emotionally disturbed boys I worked in at the time.(my coworkers would scout for me)(I am chuckling thinking bout this, and at the same time getting all teary-eyed, because my baby just turned ten)
Good luck! Listen to everyone, then compress all the information with your own experience, and ou will all be fine. Except for maybe Tom, when he sees your boobs when your milk comes in the first time! ha ha ha.
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
A diaper service for the first month would be a good idea for us, I think it would give us a good introduction to cloth diapering. If any of you wouold like to go in on a service, we would be very grateful and it would be a very thoughtful gift. However, we're still waiting on the daycare to make our final decision. I'm a dork and forgot I called them and was supposed to pick up the handbook and get their answer on Friday. We went to go see Harry Potter instead. *laugh*
I haven't been very impressed with the La Leche book either because it definitely preaches which annoys me.
We do have a travel crib, but for right now I think we're going to try to leave her in her crib overnight. I am less likely to fall deep asleep in my rocker, but I think I'll be able to doze enough that I'll be comfortable with the night feedings. I don't want a "family bed" It is nice to have the travel crib just in case I change my mind, though, and I know we'll use it quite a bit otherwise.
The mroe I talk with people, the more I realize how unconventional in thought I am. We had our hospital class today and no one was even considering cloth diapers.
Posted by Elizabeth (Member # 5218) on :
Christy, I think it depends where you live. We are in earthy-crunchy land, so it is Cloth Diaper City around here. Also, I think it goes in phases. Also again, there are much better, degradable diapers now that have a clothlike feel.
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
We got a couple of different samples today at the hospital class and I was surprised by the change in disposable diapers. I used to work in a nursery and have only been out for three years, but wow how diapers have changed!
I do have Lasinoh, btw
[ June 05, 2004, 08:20 PM: Message edited by: Christy ]
Posted by jexx (Member # 3450) on :
I wasn't impressed with the La Leche book, either, frankly. I'm all about the baby getting the nutrition it needs, but LL is very militant and annoying. Plus, a La Leche consultant was very mean to a friend of mine (she could NOT breastfeed due to medical concerns) once in a hospital, so my experiences were colored by that incident.
I supplemented breastfeeding with baby formula, because our son was shy about feeding in public (and I wasn't going to try feeding him in a bathroom--too uncomfortable--yes, I am lazy). I felt bad about it at first, but he continued to thrive, and never once had an earache or other concerns common with bottle-feeding, so...YMMV.
Truth to tell, I mostly breastfed because it was convenient (remember the lazy comment above?) and formula is farking expensive. *grin*
I have conflicting opinions about family beds. We had a semi-family bed for the first few months of CR's life (again, lazy, breastfeeding convenient in bed), and he was fine going into the crib after that. Then we moved and spent a lot of time in motels, had a family bed for safety's sake (toddler in between parents = no falling out) and then had a hard time getting him back into his own bed. Mommies and Daddies need privacy!!
Posted by Elizabeth (Member # 5218) on :
We also had a family bed due to laziness, rather than philosophy, but only in the newborn months with my second baby. He liked to cuddle, and would stop crying just from being in my arms. My hug-me-at-your-own-risk daughter liked her crib, and slept through the night from a fairly early age. Also, my son was a much better nurser, and I was much more comfortable with the whole nursing thing, so he could nurse and I could sleep.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
*tapping foot impatiently
I'm going to have a lot of time on my hands in three weeks, y'know. I'm used to pulling 12 hour shift on the quiet days -- so, Miss Christy, whatcha got to keep me occupied, hmm?
Posted by Bob_Scopatz (Member # 1227) on :
BF Skinner raised his children in a nice plexiglass box with a roll of paper that could be pulled through. No diapers at all.
Of course, he was a very odd man.
His kids seem to have turned out okay, except for their annoying habit of licking walls trying to get at the food.
Posted by UTAH (Member # 5032) on :
I used a diaper service for all three of my kids. I loved it. No fuss, no mess, and even, no smell. Just throw them in the bin, once a week they pick them up and deliver clean, white, beautiful cloth diapers. It was worth the expense. It's hard to remember the cost, but definitely worth looking into and considering for your beautiful little girl. Good luck with everything. Take care. Posted by Olivetta (Member # 6456) on :
They only pick up the diapers once a week, and there was no smell? I mean, I know breastfed babies don't get the smelly poo until you start on other foods, but I don't understand how having a diaper hamper sitting there for a week won't smell *at all*.
It's like when my sister claims, "I have five cats and you could never tell it."
I mean, we had diaper genies and that made the situation *almost* odor-free for long periods (except when you opened them or emptied them), but 'no smell' seems highly unlikely. I'm not saying you're being disingenuous, but people do tend to get used to things.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Olivia, most diaper companies provide little deodorizer disks (which I have been unable to find through other sources, sadly) that are highly absorbent. I only ever noticed a smell if we had run out of the little things. Posted by Elizabeth (Member # 5218) on :
Olivia, Our diaper pail, disc and all, smelled like a son-of-a-gun once solid food hit. I know some people around here who still use cloth diapers and wash then themselves.
Posted by Olivetta (Member # 6456) on :
Well, there were no diaper services in the area we lived in when Robert was born (I know 'cause the 'rents were going to get one for us). Robert was till in diapers when Liam was born, and we just continued to go with the flow. Robert was only in childcare for a short time, but they required disposeable diapers.
Things have changed, though. I bet it would be available in that area now, though the composting is still easier for that area-- lots of land and low population desnsity. I still say "Yay" for biodegradable disposeables and composting services. I wish Belle was still here, because I bet she'd have something valuable to add to this discussion.
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
There are no wrong diaper choices and composting is a great idea! Yaay for diaper composting!! There are many advantages to using disposable diapers which is why so many people do.
Is the diaper genie worth it if we do go disposable? My aunt gave us a pail, but we've been eyeing that diaper genie every time we go to the store.
Posted by Elizabeth (Member # 5218) on :
The diaper genie is definitely worth it, for a year or maybe two. It gets to the point, though, where you figure, heck, I will just throw it in the trash. With the design, if you just roll the dipe into a ball, and close it with the sticky tabs, it is a pretty stinkproof plan.
Posted by porcelain girl (Member # 1080) on :
my mom used cloth diapers for the first kid and washed them herself. she has six kids. whoah buddy, disposable is the way to go. ESPECIALLY after you start introducing other foods.
Posted by jexx (Member # 3450) on :
Elizabeth said:
quote: He liked to cuddle, and would stop crying just from being in my arms. My hug-me-at-your-own-risk daughter liked her crib, and slept through the night from a fairly early age.
Isn't it funny how every kid is different? I only have one, but I know from being one of two children, how wildly different progeny can be. (ooh, I dangled my participle, will I get a visit from Velvet J? Hee!)
And as I tell my recalcitrant only child when he wants to stay up late because "all the other kids in the neighborhood get to stay up late": Every family has different habits, and that's what makes the world so interesting!
Posted by Elizabeth (Member # 5218) on :
Jexx, It was such a wake-up call to the whole nature-nurture question, the minute I held my little boy in my arms. I had not understood, before that, that you didn't have to bounce, dance, and sing for a baby to keep him entertained. All I had to do was hold him, and he let me hold every ounce of him. It was like holding a sack of rice. Alyssa loved the backpack, the car, anything that would keep her up high and able to see every little thing. Both children are still pretty much the same as they were the days they were born. There is nothing I have done to make them that way. Sure, I guide them, and push them along, and discipline, and teach them right from wrong(my version), but they are still who they are. I might have influence on their behavior, but not on their personality. It is pretty wild.
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
36 weeks and 3 days! Things here are pretty good, although I've really been tired and sore and have been having some contractions this past week. Still, I'm in pretty good shape for a pregnant woman! Not too much longer to go, now.
We got the car seat inspected by the fire station and installed in our car and should be all ready to go. We picked up the rest of the things we absolutely needed -- like wipes!! -- last weekend and so I think we're as prepared as we're going to get. I've been reading up on breastfeeding and newborn care and we had our hospital Lamaze class last Saturday.
Tom even freaked out about finances this week, so I know that its beginning to sink in for the both of us that this baby is coming *smile*
Donated the baby baths and extras to my coworker with triplets. Her first one came home on Monday. She was "officially due" around the same time I am and hasn't had a baby shower because she was in the hospital for the last month or so. What a little sweetie her little girl was. So little!
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
I posted my last couple of updates on Tom's forum since it is now up and functional and because Slash asked about the baby. Posted by romanylass (Member # 6306) on :
Stay cool! Andrew was a July 5th baby and I spent the last few weeks on a lawn chair, reading. Can't wait to hear she's here!
Posted by Tammy (Member # 4119) on :
Yes, I am still pregnant! I think my baby needs a little encouragement. Posted by romanylass (Member # 6306) on :
Well, you know that what gets the baby in, gets it out.
Posted by Chris Bridges (Member # 1138) on :
None of the traditional methods for encouraging childbirth work, for the simple reason that Murphy's Law can't be demonstrated, i.e. you can't make it rain by washing your car.
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
Chris, I was told by a doctor that what romanylass is saying is true. In male semen there can be found a secretion from the prostate gland called, uncreatively, prostaglandin. It can encourage labor (though there's no guarantee).
--Pop
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Yup, that's what my OB told me as well. He also encouraged eating foods that upset the GI tract, such as Taco Bell or White Castle.
space opera
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
Yup. *grin*
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
We tried everything to get this last baby to arrive. I was dialated to a 6 for a couple of weeks. I was walking, jogging, hopping, drinking red raspberry leaf tea. Sex would get contractions started, but they wouldn't last. I wasn't going to let the midwife strip my membranes (don't remember why now).
I finally broke down and had her do it. When even a walk didn't seem to keep labor going after that, sex pushed me just over the edge enough. On the way to the hospital when my water began leaking I thought "Thank goodness! Now there is no going back."
What must be understood here is that 1) I didn't want any pitocin to have to be administered 2) I wanted as much of the labor to happen at home as reasonably possible. Also, my parents had already been out visiting for nearly a week and were soon to go home, and my sister was just about to move away.
Posted by The Rabbit (Member # 671) on :
So what's up? Has anyone heard anything from Tom or Christy?
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Given that Tom is posting pretty regularly today, I'm guessing Christy isn't in the hospital.
AJ
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
Dr. Pepper with a tablespoon of castor oil. Worked for me! (to start labor)
Farmgirl
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
*shudders at the castor oil* Yeah, my doctor loosely recommended that one, but warned me I'd have diarrhea more than contractions.
No dialation, just starting to efface. Its going to be a few more days at least.
Tom was going to bring the laptop, though. *giggle* So posting regularly might not necessarily mean that nothing is happening.
[ June 30, 2004, 12:40 PM: Message edited by: Christy ]
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Awesome. We can all get into chat and Tom can give us a play-by-play once your labor starts. I mean, what else is he gonna do during all that time?
space opera
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
*pies Space Opera* Posted by Frisco (Member # 3765) on :
I can picture it now.
TomDavidson: The veins on her forehead are pulsing rapidly, and she has a murderous look in her eyes.
TomDavidson: She seems angry. She just said "Put down that ******* computer and come hold my hand you **** **** ***** *** ***** *****."
TomDavidson: afk brb omg baby
Posted by Chris Bridges (Member # 1138) on :
I can see the chat now. Thirty-five people all typing PUSH! PUSH! over and over...
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Wow. *beaming
Uh, I get out at around 9pm, so I guess Christy will be asleep? She's staying home tomorrow, yes? Or going to work?
Do you guys need anything? Can I come over tomorrow or call, just to say hi, not to get in the way, I promise?
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
On second thought, perhaps I'll hide the laptop!
Posted by romanylass (Member # 6306) on :
I did castor oil with Olivia, except I was otld to cook my scrambled eggs in it. They help "bind" it so the runs aren't so bad. It was nASTY though.
Posted by msquared (Member # 4484) on :
I was in the next room when my oldest was born. Taking a nap. We had gone to the hospital at about 3AM and I was tired. They gave mcubed an epidural and it took her hours to have the kid. I remember watching the Clarence Thomas hearings on CNN or something.
Good luck you two.
msquared
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
I know its a very personal decision and I don't mean to be judgemental, but I want Tom there with me. I would be very hurt if he was in the other room watching CNN while I gave birth. Not that I want to inflict suffering on my husband or out of any sense of making him endure because I am in pain, but just for the simple fact that I would like to share this experience with him and I think it is a very emotional time that can never be duplicated.
I feel very fortunate that Tom has been so understanding and supportive of this. I don't know what I would do without him.
CT ??? I'm not in labor. No worries yet! It will be a few days. I'm still at work and planning to be for the rest of the week, although I did have a horrible migraine this morning complete with nausea. Luckily, that seems to have subsided, but ugh. You're more than welcome to come over just to be sure, though. *giggle*
[ June 30, 2004, 03:48 PM: Message edited by: Christy ]
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
Christy,
I also want Tom there with you. I guess in my own way I'm hoping, as he sees that new life form arrive and be bundled into his arms -- for a moment he might actually believe in the great Creator.
Farmgirl
Posted by Chris Bridges (Member # 1138) on :
Wouldn't count on it. Wouldn't rule it out, either, but...
I was present for both my sons' births and each time it was powerful, transcending, and deeply emotional. Tears were streaming down my face and there was more emotion in me than I could express. With the second birth I had an arm around her neck and was holding her right leg with my other arm, giving her something to brace against. I have never been more awed or more in love with Teres than in those last few minutes when Jamie slid into the world.
Didn't affect my agnosticism a bit.
Posted by Olivetta (Member # 6456) on :
But, see, agnosticism allows for the possibility of a divine being of some sort without being certain of it having any organized involvement in our lives.
I'm just saying...
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Heehee...Farmgirl, I can't resist, so forgive me in advance, okay?
I think there's a good chance that Tom will believe in God once he holds his "new life form." Because if your wife gives birth to an alien, it's either believe in Divine intervention or just go plain crazy.
space opera
Posted by Chris Bridges (Member # 1138) on :
Fair enough. To clarify: at the time of my kids' births, I had no thoughts about a Supreme Being(s) of any type. Love, wonder, fear, excitement, anticipation, all of that. No thoughts about higher powers. Sorry.
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
<- space opera!
Okay -- so sometimes I choose funky word combinations. That was one of them. I knew what I was thinking, but it did sound weird that way.
FG
[ June 30, 2004, 05:20 PM: Message edited by: Farmgirl ]
Posted by Chris Bridges (Member # 1138) on :
No, no, I've met Tom. Birthing an alien life form wouldn't surprise me a bit.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Wait—Who's giving birth: Christy or Tom?
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
Well, this alien life form has decided that she's in too comfy a symbiosis to leave!
In other words, still waiting and past due...
Posted by Rakeesh (Member # 2001) on :
D'oh! *crosses fingers* Hurry up! Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Rats. You go me excited there, for a minute. *smile
I've been obsessively checking the phone.
[ July 06, 2004, 08:58 AM: Message edited by: ClaudiaTherese ]
Posted by romanylass (Member # 6306) on :
LOL Space Opera!!!
My hub was there for all three births, loved it, wouldn't have missed it...but is still agnostic leaning toward atheism. I was hoping though, each time.
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
No baby yet? Where's little j/k ?
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Okay, you all. I would just like to point out how highly inconvenienced I am by this child's lateness.
Here I sit, twiddling my thumbs, anxious to fly out at a second's notice. I mean, I can hardly shake the thought of the phone ringing as I stretch and limber up at my ballet barre, exerting full range of motion. Certainly it comes to mind as I spend half a dozen hours between bathroom breaks, if not longer.
Why, as I rest comfortably through the night, occasionally a brief thought of little Rosie will enter into the dreams of my deep, deep slumber.
*sigh
When ever is she going to come?
*poke at Christy *nudge, nudge
Posted by Lalo (Member # 3772) on :
Heh, holy crap, dude. Good luck! And I hear it's best if you take the drugs. You miss out on the "natural" experience of your body splitting in two, but on the plus side, you won't be cursing Tom out for doing this to you the bastard I hate him I hate him I hate him oh god let me dddiiiiieeeee...
You'll make great parents.
Posted by UTAH (Member # 5032) on :
Best wishes and good luck. P.S. (Don't take a gun to the hospital. . . because there will be a point where you will want to shoot Tom, then the doctor, and well, you get the picture. It could be ugly, but it's all worth it in the end!
Posted by Lime (Member # 1707) on :
Good luck, Christy. Jules and I are both really excited for the two of you - and we can't wait to bring you guys baby presents. (I know, we could have done so before, but now we've got money. )
When Davidson 2.0 makes his/her appearance, it'll be
time!
Posted by Olivetta (Member # 6456) on :
So, SOMEBODY has got to tell us when things start happennin'.
I know you've already worked out who's driving you to the hospital, and who will be present at the birth, etc.
I just wanna know who your designated poster is. That is, the person with the honor of announcing little Rose's arrival while you guys are all otherwise engaged.
So?
*waggles eyebrows*
Posted by ctm (Member # 6525) on :
Christy-- for what it is worth-- a massage therapist friend of mine (who actually lives in MAdison!)once claimed that massaging the ankles could bring on labor. She said to really work on the sensitive area behind and below the ankle bone. Basically on either side of the tendon. My first baby was born very late, I had to be induced, so we'd planned to try this when I was pregnant with my second, to avoid another induction labor. Naturally my daughter came 2 weeks early so it wasn't necessary. SInce then I've resommended it to several overdue friends. None have ever tried it so I don't know if it works.
Not as fun as some of the suggestions here but worth I try, I always thought...
ctm
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Ok, Christy, here's the deal. Just put yourself into a very inconvenient situation for labor to start. Get really really tired or decide to go out on a date. Babies just love to come when they're least expected! My labor with my daughter started at midnight. I had just gone to bed and thought, "No! Not right now; I'm too tired!" Many hugs, though. I know it's tough waiting.
space opera
Posted by Olivetta (Member # 6456) on :
Sex can induce labor, if you don't use a barrier (like WHY you'd use a barrier at this stage of the game... but *shrug* ). Also, a small dose of Castor oil, I'm told.
Dunno if it's an old wives' tale or not. I thought I read that there was some scientific basis for it. The sex thing is true, though. When I was opening early with Robert, they told me not to have sex, even with a condom, as it might induce labor early.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
The cervix can be "ripened" by the application of prostaglandins, which come from, naturally, the "prostate gland." Prostaglandins are also released locally by uterine tissue upon stimulation.
Nipple stimulation induces the release of oxytocin from the posterior pituitary, which aids both in milk letdown and in inducing uterine contractions (thus the injunction to put babies to breast ASAP -- helps tighten a "loose" uterus & thereby diminishes blood loss postpartum).
The uterine contractions of orgasm are also thought to stimulate further contractions, perhaps. There's a lot about sex that may stimulate birthin' the babies.
The body is a beautiful thing.
[ July 06, 2004, 05:29 PM: Message edited by: ClaudiaTherese ]
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
*cough
Not that I'm, like, recommending anything or anything. As if I would be so bold, sitting here all lonely and all, waiting for m-- , er, the baby.
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
*sigh* All points taken into consideration. Doc estimates the wee bairn at 7+ lbs and so is a bit nervous at me going too close to 42 weeks just because of pure size. I have an appointment on Friday to discuss induction. I think she's hoping to stress me/baby out enough that I'll worry myself into labor. I've been too happy and comfortable. *laugh* I am 2cm dialated and -1 station, though, which is improved from last week. I cleaned all day at work today and after my doctors appointment. Major nesting going on here.
---- Warning: Too much information! Read at your own risk. ----
Tried the breast pump and manual expression today for stimulation and because I've been curious. Gosh did I feel very inadequate! The funny thing was that Tom had more of a feel for manual expression than I did! I think reading about it actually hindered rather than helped me. I kept telling him that wasn't how they described it in the book! I felt a bit more comfortable, though, after some practice. ---- *pledges to call CT every time I wake up to go to the bathroom at night* I dreamed last night that I could see her little face through the skin on my stomach and was showing everyone.
No guns, as few drugs as I can...
*giggle* Tom plans to bring the laptop, but we'll leave the official posting up to CT just in case.
Hrm...haven't heard of the ankle massage. Might give that a try As for inconveniencing myself, I think I've been good enough to stop just before exhaustion and so all the activity I've had hasn't really done anything for me. My doctor keeps congratulating me, though, for being so active and looking so good.
*pokes CT back again*
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
(Yea! I get to be the official poster!
*does the official-poster dance )
Posted by Kwea (Member # 2199) on :
CT, I didn't know you could break-dance.... Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Hey, I didn't say I could do it well.
Posted by Vána (Member # 6593) on :
Geeze, Christy! Still no baby? Come on, let's get moving!
Also, thank you so much for going to the fire station to get your seat checked out. Remember to keep the harness snug, no more than a finger should be able to fit between her collar bone and the strap, and keep the retainer clip at armpit level. Also, every once in a while, check the tightness of the seat - it shouldn't be able to move more than an inch at the belt path (where the seat belt goes through the car seat). And keep an eye on the angle of the back of the seat - as close to 45 degrees as possible. If you see that it's tipping, bring it back in to have it adjusted. Or, you know, call me, and we'll come up to see you all and fix the seat in the meantime. Any excuse, right?
I can hardly wait to meet little Baby Davidson! I hope she comes soon! Posted by Kwea (Member # 2199) on :
Was that just....The Worm????? Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
::delurks::
::reserves this spot for the party smiley::
::lurk::
Posted by Vána (Member # 6593) on :
*sigh* Still no baby? I can't take the tension!
Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
Yeah, it's got to be really stressful, not knowing whether she's had the baby or not. Posted by Vána (Member # 6593) on :
Posted by sndrake (Member # 4941) on :
Yeah, Tom, try to have some empathy for others!
It's not like you've got anything to be preoccupied with of your own. Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Christy has this perfectly magical figure. From behind, she's just a tiny slip of a thing with her legs a little broad-stanced (as if she's itchin' for a fight). From the side you see this precise curving egg of a belly, dropped low to her hips, rounded and graceful. From the front, she's all smiles and soft fluffy hair and big pretty eyes.
I'm torn. I want to play with the baby, but I kinda think perfection shouldn't be messed with.
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Good luck.
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Yes, that is still far away from us (and much farther from you!) but hopefully aptly named.![[Razz]](tongue.gif)
Edit: and he even beats me to posting to prove it!![[Big Grin]](biggrin.gif)
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I still have the ones I used for Dan & Jen! Well, most of them anyway. A few have been relegated to dustrag duty...![[Dont Know]](graemlins/dontknow.gif)
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time!
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