I told Mr. Opera last week that I'm getting "I'm just the right size" screenprinted on a t-shirt. If one more person looks me up and down and says something like, "Oh...you're not due till October? Wow, you're really big." or "Oh...you're so small for 6 and a half months" I will literally fling myself upon them and beat their heads in with my swollen ankles.
Anyway, since there's obviously something in the Hatrack water I figured I'd start a thread for all the big belly ladies.
space opera
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I'm so very jealous of all of you. It must be so cool!
I wish you all the best of health and bouncy, snuggable, huggable babies.
-Katarain
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
I've been dubbed an optical illusion. At my baby shower last week, everyone's yarn to guess how big around I am was at least 5 inches longer than I actually am around! And I still have an innie, not an outie, so I take pride in that.
3 weeks and counting!
Posted by advice for robots (Member # 2544) on :
So what are you going to name them? :D
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
I have a wierd combination of half innie/half outie currently. It never popped out all the way with my 2 older children, but I'm larger earlier this time around, so we'll see.
afr, we're thinking of the name Samuel. We all call the baby "Possible Samuel" since that will possibly be his name. Actually, I'm pretty sure it will be his name, since it will hard to call him anything else once he's here. Umm, we'll leave off the "possible" though.
space opera
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I keep getting the "is she fat or is she pregnant?" stare. It's not exactly an ego boost. The stretch marks are just wonderful, too. My mother freaked out when she saw them - she didn't get any (she also lost the 25 pounds she gained in 3 weeks).
On the other hand, people keep letting me ahead of them in line and opening new checkout lines just for me. Plus, we didn't have to wait for a table at the Cheesecake Factory or California Pizza Kitchen - 2 places with nototiously long waits.
Posted by seespot (Member # 7388) on :
I'm at 32 weeks right now and this has really ceased to be a problem. About 4 weeks ago, however, two lovely women felt it was their duty to insult me. One said, "You know, you really don't look pregnant. You just look a little chunky." The other said," You don't really look pregnant. You just look like you've put on a little weight." Because of my imbalanced emotional state, the second comment drove me nearly to tears, while controlling to urge to punch the person. I mentioned these comments to my dr, commenting on the rather tactless cuture of Miami, FL. He gave me a couple of good ones he had heard. The one I remember is this:
"If you are having a girl, the girl steals your beauty. If you are having a boy, you are more beautiful. . . . You must be having a girl!"
This is my first pregnancy, so it is all new. I have loved being pregnant for the most part, but am now about ready for my baby to be born!
Posted by Troubadour (Member # 83) on :
i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog i'm getting a dog....
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
Okay, troubs is making me jealous. The pregnant women just scare me. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Sympathy to the preggo-people getting insensitive comments. I got a LOT of those when I was pregnant, especially with my first.
The absolute corker was the woman who saw me when the baby was two weeks old, and said something like "Oh! I Hadn't realized you were pregnant!"
Now, if I had had more than two hours of sleep the night before, I might have been smart enough not to ask what she had thought. >_<
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
My sister and I both get huge. And we get insensitive comments. I remember the checkout guy at the grocery store thinking he was quite witty telling me that maybe I "shouldn't be buying all that ice cream". Since I'd had problems with gestational diabetes, I thought he somehow knew my ailment just by looking at me. Then I realized he was making a crack that even though I was obviously pregnant, I looked "fat".
I was not amused.
Then there's my sister who several days after having the baby had someone over who asked her when she was going to have that baby.
Posted by Troubadour (Member # 83) on :
Getting a dog is more my way of warding against cluckiness.... Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Why does my unborn child torture me so? I provide him a place to live (rent-free, might I add) and occasionally supply yummy treats like Hostess cupcakes. Despite my kindness his elbow remains lodged in the bottom of my ribs, making sitting very uncomfortable.
Oh, and in case anyone is wondering, severe allergies and a baby starting to exert force on your bladder do not mix.
space opera
edit: lest my post sound too negative, let me add that I love being pregnant and the kidlet on the way. I do not love, however, the feeling of wet pants. Posted by Synesthesia (Member # 4774) on :
You love wet pants?
Ok. I read it wrong
^^
Pregnant women are rather cute, but I am not sure if they actually glow.
Posted by Frisco (Member # 3765) on :
quote:Why does my unborn child torture me so?
He needs more room. I thought you looked a little small for how far along you were.
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Syn, you read far too quickly.
space opera, who now understands the vast difference between "do" and "do not"
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Frisco
*waits till Frisco is distracted by her laughs, then flings herself upon him and beats him with her swollen ankles*
space opera
Posted by Kayla (Member # 2403) on :
Space Opera, I sympathize.
When I was pregnant, my son lodged his head under my rib cage. I had bruised ribs for two months after he was born. And I puked every day of my pregnancy. Even the day I gave birth. And toward the end, he started kicking while I was puking. I used to tell my husband that when my son was old enough and puked, I was going to kick him in the butt. I never did, but I'm not dead yet. Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
It's nice to know what I have to look forward to.
I think that the baby is lactose intolerant or that pregnancy has made me lactose intolerant. Any dairy products give me horrible indigestion and heartburn. Which is annoying, because I really want a milkshake.
We find out the sex on Monday. I don't know what I'm going to do with myself until then.
Kayla, your story reminds me of my best friend's mother. Her youngest used to kick her right as she was falling asleep and she swore that she was going to stand over the baby and poke him just as he was about to fall asleep. She never did, though.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
quote: Space Opera, I sympathize.
When I was pregnant, my son lodged his head under my rib cage. I had bruised ribs for two months after he was born. And I puked every day of my pregnancy. Even the day I gave birth.
I double sympathize. I am a small person... my husband is NOT. Each of my children so far was more than a third of my height at BIRTH. I felt like I had permanent feet in ribs for the last two months.
Sadly I also belong to the small group with constant sickness thoughout pregnancy. Who came up with "morning" sickness... morning my foot! Sadly I get sick enough in early pregnancy to make my blood pressure plummet so my hatrack presence (and all activities really) have been curbed while I lie around waiting to feel better.
I am currently at approx. 17 weeks and in the "I look fat" and "I look stupid in Maternity clothes but nothing else fits" stages. Sigh.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
I hate that stage!
That is why 2nd trimester is my least favorite. Well, it helps that my 1st trimesters are relatively easy. Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
quote:I double sympathize. I am a small person... my husband is NOT. Each of my children so far was more than a third of my height at BIRTH. I felt like I had permanent feet in ribs for the last two months.
Uh oh. I'm 5'4'' and my husband is 6'5''. The baby was twice the average weight at the last ultrasound and the technician commented on how long his or her legs are. My doctor said that she won't let the baby get too big, but still...
quote:I am currently at approx. 17 weeks and in the "I look fat" and "I look stupid in Maternity clothes but nothing else fits" stages. Sigh.
I'm with you - I'm at 17 weeks and 3 days (4 days in about an hour). I've already gotten the "Wow, you've already started to show?!" comments. Maternity clothes actually look okay on me at this point, because I have a freakishly large chest. The saleslady at the maternity store asked my how much bigger my chest had gotten during my first trimester. I told her it hadn't gotten any bigger and she said, "Don't worry, our bras go up to H." I know she was trying to make me feel better, but she couldn't have made me feel worse. I'm starting out as a DD and I've been self-conscious about it my entire life. She also asked, in a roundabout way, if I had implants. I'm used to it, so I wasn't offended, but shouldn't people who work in maternity stores have more tact?
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
quote: Uh oh. I'm 5'4'' and my husband is 6'5''. The baby was twice the average weight at the last ultrasound and the technician commented on how long his or her legs are. My doctor said that she won't let the baby get too big, but still...
My friends would say I am 5'1". That's a little generous but sounds better than "5 nothing". My husband is 6'4" - 6'5". My children were above average length and my sons stayed at the 95th percentile for height through their early years. They were average weight however (btw 7 and 8 pounds) I don't I could carry a much bigger baby but my constant nausea also mitigates my weight gain. As my doctor said when I asked about the 10+ pound babies in my husbands family "nature takes care of these things usually... they'll catch up after they're born" They did!
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
quote:I'm with you - I'm at 17 weeks and 3 days (4 days in about an hour). I've already gotten the "Wow, you've already started to show?!" comments.
Sounds like we're about par....when are you due? I am (insert maniacal laughter here) due December 25th.
quote:The saleslady at the maternity store asked my how much bigger my chest had gotten during my first trimester. I told her it hadn't gotten any bigger and she said, "Don't worry, our bras go up to H."
Ack. I started at A and with my first pregnancy went up to F!!! According to friends at La Leche that's really uncommon and most women only go up 1 or 2 cup sizes. On the plus size by four months a lot of the extra size settles down. Phew! A company called Bravado makes excellent nursing bras for slim but large chested women. They were the only company that made bras to fit me while nursing.
quote: She also asked, in a roundabout way, if I had implants. I'm used to it, so I wasn't offended, but shouldn't people who work in maternity stores have more tact?
She may have asked because women with implants often need extra support to establish breast feeding and such. She may have referred you to a lactation group in that case, like La Leche.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I never thought of that. I really want a reduction, and doctors have recommended one, but I put it off so that I wouldn't have any problems nursing. I'm going to get one (with a lift most likely) after the baby is weaned - I'll probably go down to a C. Thanks for the tip about the bras - I will definitely check them out.
I'm due the 18th, but I don't know if we'll make it. We'll see how big he or she is on Monday.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Hmmm I know at least four seperate people who went down to 1 cup size below their original size after weaning. (not me but then... i started as an A)
(((wishful thinking for Mrs. M)))
Posted by advice for robots (Member # 2544) on :
I think pregnant women are uniformly beautiful. I don't know what it is about them. They are just beautiful, even when they are holding onto their backs and grimacing.
Posted by Dragon (Member # 3670) on :
The mom of one of my campers at summer camp just gave birth today!
here's to many happy moms and babies! :toast:
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
I am so uncomfortable, I could scream. Well, I just cry instead. Pretty much every day, I cry.
I have little feet pushing on the lateral edge of my right rib cage, causing constant pain there, as well as in my right erectors. I push my rib cage back into place, but that is only temporary relief. I'm hungry, but when I eat, there's not enough room for baby and food. I'm trying to drink enough fluids, but sometimes it gives me a stomach ache. My legs and feet are swollen, my neck is sore, my uterus is so tight most of the time, due to positioning of baby (which is not the right position for birth, mind you) and every muscle on my body aches and yearns for the slightest touch. How is this natural again? How am I supposed to survive another 3 weeks? I'm not sure.
I do have a massage scheduled for Friday. We'll see how long the relief lasts.
As for maternity clothes, I started wearing them (those few times when I would leave my basement. I usually stayed in PJ's on the couch because of my excessive vomitting.) at about 10 weeks, because my normal clothes were just not comfortable. I may have looked ridiculous, but I didn't care. I looked ridiculous most of the time anyway, since I never did my hair or makeup, since it was a rare occasion to get me out of the house. I can't tell you how glad I was when the vomitting stopped at 18 weeks!
Posted by Kayla (Member # 2403) on :
quote: I can't tell you how glad I was when the vomitting stopped at 18 weeks!
You are so lucky. I ended up in the hospital at 6 months in premature labor, which they stopped. Up to that point, I had gained a total of 6 pounds. In three days in the hospital, I gained 6 pounds. Stupid IVs.
quote: I'm hungry, but when I eat, there's not enough room for baby and food.
This is hysterical. We went out to eat once and I ordered half the menu, took two bites and couldn't eat anymore. I cried, too.
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Mrs. M., I've always heard/read that ultrasound can be over a pound wrong on a baby's weight, but I'm not sure how high-tech the ultrasound your doc uses is. I'm just saying this because I've known several people who were told as early as the beginning of the second trimester that their babies were going to be huge and that babies turned out to be average-sized. 2 of my friends were pushed into early (and painful) inductions because their baby was "so big" only to birth an 8 - 9 lb. baby. Henci Goer's The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth is an excellant resource if you don't already have it. I hope none of what I said sounds preachy!
((divaesefani)) It will be over soon and you'll have a beautiful baby in your arms instead of in your ribs!
My little guy has removed his elbow...yay! He decided to dance around a lot this morning and that helped. I could feel him scrunching up his whole body and then stretching out, so I got both punched and kicked for a bit.
space opera
Posted by Kayla (Member # 2403) on :
Speaking of streching, every night, my son did laps. It looked like something out of Alien. It freaked my husband out.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Very true, about ultrasounds sometimes being wrong on the size of the baby. My doc said Thomas was "at least" 10 pounds, but he was really only 8lbs, 4oz at birth.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
quote: 2 of my friends were pushed into early (and painful) inductions because their baby was "so big" only to birth an 8 - 9 lb. baby.
This *might* not have been a bad thing, considering at this point the baby gains ounces daily.
My first was born a week early. At 9lb 3oz, I was glad.
I gave natural birth to my last at 9lb 6oz. She did not come through the birth canal easily! My smallest, 8lb 6oz, came out so easily.
I want any future babies to be SMALL babies! If I can help it. That is why I am more determined than ever to cut down on sugar. I did with my second, and that is why I think she was as small as she was. (If you can call 8lb 6oz small. )
But inductions when your body isn't ready totally suck too. So it is a tough decision when you're being told that you are going to have a "huge" baby.
Posted by JenniK (Member # 3939) on :
my best friend,Joy, had a baby boy last December 23rd. he is now 6 months old with the same amount of teeth,is drinking from a " sippy cup" and standing almost on his own... the child is scary! He picked his own head up from my shoulder when I visited him... on the day he was born! That totally freaked me out! I must say that I am quite smitten with him tho' . Joy actually lost weight when she was pregnant.. as she put it " it was the best diet I've ever been on!" She too was vomiting all through the pregnancy. If it's any consolation.. her sister was born 3 and a half weeks late (read as 10 months!) and weighted 10 pounds! OUCH!!! Their aunt had 3 kids... and each time she would put on a maternity top the day she went to the hospital to give birth... just to say she had worn maternity clothes. That's enough to piss off any woman, let alone one who is pregnant!
Last little note, Joy and Jammie's cousin got ticked off one day when she went to a local "drunkin Donuts" to get a coffee. the girl behind the counter ( who looked about 14) told her she couldn't have coffee. Melanie was like "excuse me?? and why do you thgink that I cant have coffee?" The idiot behind the counter came out with " you can't have caffeine when you're pregnant"! Melanie went nuts. she said, "first dont ever tell anyone what they can't drink, second, I'm NOT pregnant!, and third... even when I was, I drank coffee when I wanted to drink coffee.. they have something called decaf now - maybe you've heard of it!" That was quite an experience.
Ok so maybe that wasnt the last little note...As yet, Kwea and I don't have any children, so I can say that I am envious of all of you who are pregnant... vomiting and discomfort included, and I wish you all luck, and happy thoughts during the births. ( when my sister had her last child, the epidurals [yes that's right she had 2] didn't take and she told the poor intern to "give my sister the forceps and let her rip it out!!!!" , but then she also had told the nurse during an ultrasound that "if it's another girl either sew a penis on it or put it back! I don't want another like the one I've got!" It was, of course, a girl... and is nothing like her older sister..Ariela takes after me! [Not that I'm proud or anything!] )
Again best wishes for happy healthy babies and mommies! Posted by Moonshine (Member # 7893) on :
I'm only 17 and not pregnant or planning on getting pregnant before I'm married. Good luck to all of you mothers/mothers-to-be!
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
I had my first OB appt today. The usual "yep, you're pregnant" and all the other usual first visit stuff. They ended up taking blood from both arms because the first vein collapsed on the second of four vials. The first ultrasound will be at the next visit to verify the due date. The doc said my uterus is the right size, but it is tilted. I don't remember either doctor mentioning that with either of my first two pregnancies. Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
*makes note not to have children for a very long time* o_O
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Mama, I read about tilted uteruses in my obsessive pregnancy reading. Childbirth can tip the uterus forward or backward - the ligaments holding the uterus in place stretch, or lose their tension during pregnancy. Between 10 and 12 weeks, it usually goes back to where it should be. If your doctor isn't worried, you shouldn't be.
I'm sorry your vein collapsed. Ouch! I've never had that happen, but I did have to have so many tests during the fertility treatments that I looked like a heroin addict at one point (I bruise).
I got a lot of "pregnant or fat?" stares today - it must be the top. I also had a man leer at me, which really creeped me out.
Ladybug is now the average weight for her development, so I'm not as worried about making my due date.
Posted by Wendybird (Member # 84) on :
I got asked how far along I was and I wasn't even pregnant
**hopes that by posting in a pregnancy thread some of that hatrack water will give me good pregnancy vibes....
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
It's been a less-than-stellar pregnant week. I can walk almost without pain now, which is nice. It's either round ligament pain or another UTI. I have an OB appt. next week. Plus my digestive tract has gone completely haywire. Not to mention the back pain and headaches.
Two things are really bothering me: the mood swings and the natural childbirth people. They're not exactly mood swings - it's mostly crying and a severely decreased tolerance for people who annoy me. Andrew and I went to the movies this weekend and I started full-out crying during the preview for Walk the Line (Johnny Cash biopic). I cry everytime Monk missed Trudy, which is a lot. I am not a crier and it upsets me to cry.
The natural childbirth people are really getting to me. These are the women I've encountered in pregnancy forums who are pro-midwife, pro-doula, pro-unassisted childbirth, anti-hospital, anti-medication. I have no problem with their beliefs and preferences, but I have a major problem with their attitude. I have never seen such judgemental people in my life. I'm high-risk, so no midwife would accept me as a client even if I wanted to go to one. According to these women, this means that I don't care about the health and welfare of my baby. And I can't for the life of me understand what a doula does that a nurse or family member can't do. I would never judge anyone who prefers not to have a hospital birth attended by an OB, so why is it okay for these women to judge me?
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Pffff. I went natural last time. I intend to this time. You know what? Epidurals are teh awesome. Judgement is for the birds.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
It happens the other way too.
My mother (a GP) had a home-birth with my little brother. She wanted to with my sister as well, but because she was older (41) she went to a birthing centre instead.
Now this birthing centre was *adjacent* to a maternity hospital. She had two midwives with her. If anything went wrong the response time from the hospital was a matter of minutes, if that.
And yet she was still told she was being irresponsible by not going to the "proper hospital".
Silly judgmental people. Just do what feels right for you. Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
It does run both ways, but I've overwhelmingly encountered the anti-hosptial side. I am just so shocked that pregnant women would be so nastily judgemental. I guess I also have this idea that people who favor holistic medicine should have accepting attitudes.
And the doula thing is driving me nuts. People keep asking me if I'm having one for the birth and they look at me like I'm crazy when I tell them that I'm having my husband, mother, mother-in-law, and two best friends (I also invited my father-in-law and brother-in-law, but they declined, to my vast amusement). Why on earth would I need a doula?
Don't even get me started on co-sleeping.
Posted by theCrowsWife (Member # 8302) on :
I wish I had had a doula, and I plan to have one for the next birth. The reason: even though we took a childbirth class, my husband didn't really "get" how to help me during labor. If I asked him to do something, he did it, but he didn't take initiative. Obviously I was too focused on what I was going through to be able to constantly direct him. I want a doula to do that directing for me.
Also, nothing I requested on my birth plan happened. It wasn't really the doctors' fault, as it was a difficult birth that turned into a c-section, but it was really depressing all the same. I want a doula to help make sure that my wishes are honored if at all possible.
But, if you have supportive family that know what they are doing, then I would agree that you don't need one.
--Mel
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
I have had 2 children and both were born in a hospital and I did not have a midwife and didn't see the need for one. I didn't have a doula either and don't think I needed one either. It all comes down to personal choice.
My sister-in-law had all of her family to the birth of her child. When I had mine just my husband was there (with the doctor and nurses).
You need to do what will work for you. Don't listen to those that tell you you are doing it wrong.
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
Will this ever end?
(1 week til due date, and counting)
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Mama, I have a tilted uterus as well. Like you, I didn't know till my third pregnancy either! It made it more difficult for the tech to see the baby on my first ultrasound, but hasn't caused any problems since then.
Mrs. M., I keep running into people who believe the opposite way about labor and birth! While waiting in a long line at the grocery, I had a really young first-time mom tell me that there was no way I'd get through a birth without meds...she looked sheepish when I explained that I was pregnant with my third. I think being pregnant gives you lots of practice being patient, no matter what your views. I am sorry that you've run into judgemental people in the natural birth community, though. I think it's really easy for certain people to forget that there are different circumstances, etc. in every woman's pregnancy and that the most important outcome is a healthy baby and mom.
My third trimester energy drop has hit big-time.
space opera
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Women tend to be judgemental, compare inappropriately (my worst qualities to their best, or visa versa), and feel guilt at the drop of a hat. I haven't figured out why that is, but I think that all three of those things are inter-related. It's why women get so catty and nasty.
So no matter what stand you take, there will be women who vehemently disagree with you. I don't know that there is anything you can do about it but try not to care that they think you are "awful" for whatever you've decided to do.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
Just wait until people start asking if you are going to circumsize if you are having a boy.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
Apparently I have a UTI. Another doctor from my doctor's office called to say someone had put my urinalysis report in front of her. She doesn't have my file so she doesn't know my blood test results. But she said I have a UTI and she is calling in a prescription for me. Go figure. I had no clue. What are the normal symptoms for a UTI, does anyone know?
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
An almost constant urge to urinate, pain/burning during urination, and sometimes cloudy or bloody urine. They suck, but clear up easily with antibiotics.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
I've heard that pregnancy can "mask" the symptoms of a UTI, but I'm not sure what that means. I was diagnosed with a UTI towards the end of my last pregnancy, and I didn't have much in the way of symptoms. Maybe a little discomfort in the bladder area, but who can notice a tiny thing like that amongst all the other things pregnancy does to one's body? :smirk:
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
A typical UTI involves symptoms like burning with urination, increased frequency, bloody urine or bad smelling urine.
But we don't normally test asymptomatic people. Sometimes people can have some bacteria or white cells in urine that clears up and so no testing and no treatment get initiated.
When pregnant, though, they want to treat even asymptomatic women. So if they find it (white cells or bacteria), they always treat it.
Posted by Belle (Member # 2314) on :
Just wanted to say I love readin about you wonderful pregnant ladies. There's part of me that misses those days.
I do have one thing to remind you of, though - it's almost August and the hottest part of the summer. Make sure you are getting plenty of water for you and the little one. Spending the night in the hospital because you're dehydrated and the doctor wants you on IV fluids is no fun. I've done it.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Mama, I've had 2 UTIs so far. With the first, i had such constant pain in my groin that I couldn't sleep at night. The second, I had no symptoms, they just tested me routinely b/c I'd had one before. I just got tested for another today. Apparently, UTIs are extremely common for pregnant women. Both times I was treated with (baby-safe) antibiotics and it cleared right up.
On another note, we're surprising friends this weekend with my pregnancy. We haven't told them and we're seeing them for the first time in a year.
Gotta run - Shabbos.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
I drink a LOT of water while at work (about 4 32oz. glasses a day), but I have a hard time remembering to drink water at home in the evenings and especially on the weekends.
I definitely have the asymptomatic UTI. I had no clue. I wonder if I am more prone to them this time because of the tilted uterus.
Oh well. Only 3 days and approximately 8 hours until Pop comes home! Yay!!!
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
I told Mr. Opera today that I must be allergic to the baby. Seriously, my allergies have been 20 times worse since I got pregnant. Today was hell, beginning with waking at 6 in the morning unable to breathe and continuing with sneezing fits and swollen, red eyes all day. Anyone else having problems?
We're going next month to have a maternity portrait taken. Normally I wouldn't have even thought of it, but we got a coupon thingy in the mail for a free session and 8 x 10. I'm thinking of just having a close-up of my belly done with all of our hands on it (mine, Mr. Opera's, Boy Opera's, and Operaetta's).
It amazes me how much my children already love this baby. A part of me wonders if they're so overly-protective of him already because of our miscarriage (I hate that word - it makes it sound like you dropped the baby or something). Operaetta asked just the other day if this baby would be okay. We've decided to plant a cherry tree in the yard in memory of the baby that we lost, and that seems right to all of us.
Wow, can you tell the hormones have kicked back in? I'm either trying not to scream at people or trying to hold back tears because I feel like such a lucky woman.
space opera
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
Nah, tilted uteruses are so common. I don't think they change the frequency of UTIs.
Here's what a medical program called UpToDate says about pregnancy UTIs:
Epidemiology — Bacteriuria occurs in 2 to 7 percent of pregnancies, particularly in multiparous women, a similar prevalence as in nonpregnant women. The organisms are also similar in species and virulence factors in pregnant and nonpregnant women. Thus the basic mechanism of entry of bacteria into the urinary tract is likely to be the same for both groups.
Bacteriuria often develops in the first month of pregnancy and is frequently associated with a reduction in concentrating ability, suggesting involvement of the kidney. The smooth muscle relaxation and subsequent ureteral dilatation that accompany pregnancy are thought to facilitate the ascent of bacteria from the bladder to the kidney. As a result, bacteriuria during pregnancy has a greater propensity to progress to pyelonephritis (up to 40 percent) than in nonpregnant women.
Bacteriuria is also associated with an increased risk of preterm birth, low birth weight, and perinatal mortality [4-8]. As an example, a review of over 50,000 pregnancies between 1959 and 1966 showed that women with bacteriuria and/or pyuria (no comment on the presence or absence of symptoms) in the last two weeks of pregnancy had a higher rate of perinatal mortality from a variety of causes than did noninfected women. Treatment of bacteriuria during pregnancy reduces the incidence of these complications and lowers the long-term risk of sequelae following asymptomatic bacteriuria.
That's why OBs check so often and are so careful to do follow up testing.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
SO, a significant percentage of women find their allergies are much worse when pregnant. I am in that group.
So much so that my doctor had me try a number of class C drugs (only in my third trimester) to see if anything would help. (There really aren't any class B allergy meds.)
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I have UTI number 3. It's the same strain as the first one I had. I'm actually pretty pleased, because this one was pretty painful. At one point last week, I was having trouble walking and I was afraid my pelvis had separated. I'm getting antibiotics.
I'm also going to be given antibiotics as soon as I go into labor, to eliminate the chance of me passing the bacteria to the baby. I'm a little freaked out about that, since I'm slightly antibiotic phobic.
My cervix is high and closed, which is good, and Andrew got to meet my Richmond doctor.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Allergies: Pregnancy does funky things to one's immune system. I don't go outside and that seems to help with allergy related problems.
UTIs: Hope all the moms-to-be dealing with this get better soon! I had one in my second pregnancy in my third trimester. We kept thinking I was going into labour and then realized the UTI was causing the cramps. Cleared up with antibiotics.
All is well here. Still struggling with nausea and still up only 3 pounds. I had my second (and last, I hope) ultrasound yesterday. The baby, which our kids call "Peep", is fine and growing well. Our due date (Christmas Day) is still bang on.
Sadly this baby is appearantly a prude and refused to "display" strategic parts of his body during the ultrasound. I guess we'll find out if this is a boy or girl the old fashioned way. My hunch: I think it's a boy.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I'm a bit freaked out - I started leaking colostrum. It's just a tiny bit, but I didn't expect it until much later.
Other than that, everything is fine. Ladybug's wardrobe has already exceeded her father's.
Posted by theCrowsWife (Member # 8302) on :
That started at about four months for me. Freaked me out a bit too, but the doctor said it was fine.
--Mel
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Miriya, I gained barely any weight up until now (I'm almost 30 weeks) - about 10 pounds. Over the last 6 weeks I've gained 10 more...yikes! Obviously I've decided to put the bulk of my weight on during the last trimester. With my daughter it was the exact opposite. Isn't that strange how things are so different each time?
My hands have started swelling recently - oh, joy. I took my wedding rings off for the remainder of the pregnancy last week. Allergies are still pretty icky, but it's good to know that hopefully the severity is simply pregnancy-related.
Dr. appointment tommorow - down to every 2 weeks now!
space opera
Posted by seespot (Member # 7388) on :
I love this thread. I'll be 36 weeks tomorrow. We have an interesting adventure in fron of us, as we have to be out of our apartment 3 weeks from yesterday. We were going to be closing on a house in less than 2 weeks, but that fell through. So. . . don't know where we are going to live. Fun and Exciting! But we are so excited for our baby to join us on this great adventure. . .
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
quote: We have an interesting adventure in fron of us, as we have to be out of our apartment 3 weeks from yesterday. We were going to be closing on a house in less than 2 weeks, but that fell through. So. . . don't know where we are going to live. Fun and Exciting!
Well... that brings back memories. When we were expecting our second child, we still lived in an apartment in University residence. This worked well seeing as we were both working at the U. With a second child on the way, I started looking for a nicer condo apartment (read: with in suite laundry ) We found one near my mom that was just perfect. Our lease had to begin Aug. 1. Baby was due July 28. I had planned a home birth.
Things actually went remarkably well. I arranged to use the guest room in my brother's home for my birth. (we're close) I was in very early labour when we did the move with the big truck.Then I went over to my brother's had my baby (a week late). Next day I put him in a sling and finished moving. Everyone thought we were insane but the memories are fun and the pictures are priceless. Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Wow, and I was complaining about having to move at 3.5 months. Good luck, seespot.
I think I'm feeling some kicking, but I'm not sure. It's like little thumps in the bottom left of my abdomen and they're not regular at all. What do y'all think?
I'd like to see a due date thread or we could all list our due dates here. I have a vague idea when everyone is due, but I'd like to know exactly.
Posted by Narnia (Member # 1071) on :
Yeah, me too Mrs. M. Everyone, list your due date!
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Either Valentine's Day or Earlier In February. I don't really know.
Mrs.M, I keep thinking I've felt a wiggle in my womb, and I'm just barely second trimester, or not quite, depending on which due date I go with.
I guess there's no way to really *know*.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
beverly, I read that you feel the baby earlier with each subsequent pregnancy, so who knows?
I'm December 18th. It's pretty accurate, as I was on fertility treatments and inseminated. Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
I'm due December 25.
Mrs. M & Beverly: I started feeling early indistinct movements a few weeks ago. (this isn't my first pregnancy). The movement is daily and frequent now (20 weeks) although it is still too light for others to feel the movements.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Well, both of you are far enough along that you are probably feeling actual fetal movement. At barely 13 wks, I'm probably imagining things.
The neat thing is when you get your 20 wk ultrasound, and you can tell that it is the baby's movement that you are feeling. The baby kicks on the screen, and you feel it! Posted by seespot (Member # 7388) on :
My due date is september 3. My husband would love it if she were born on Aug 15. It's possible, but I tell him to dream on. . . .
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
I'm due today.
Posted by seespot (Member # 7388) on :
How exciting!!! It won't be long now. But from what I hear, it can also seem like forever. . . Good luck!!
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
Thanks! I'm going crazy!! I just want to hold him!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by beverly: Well, both of you are far enough along that you are probably feeling actual fetal movement. At barely 13 wks, I'm probably imagining things.
Not necessarily. Multiparas are often able to detect fetal movement as early as 12 weeks. (I was, but only with kid #3.)
Mrs.M, sounds like it's quite likely baby movement. (Not necessarily "kicking" -- head butts and tushy shoves are the easiest to detect. )
Good luck, seespot! Any way to extend your lease, at least a month or two?
divaesefani, good luck! Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
quote:Not necessarily. Multiparas are often able to detect fetal movement as early as 12 weeks. (I was, but only with kid #3.)
Ooo, really? I had not heard anything like that. Maybe it isn't just in my head!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
So said my OB. They'll be very slight that early, and I only felt them when I was lying down and relaxing (reading, mostly).
Certainly the fetus moves independently earlier than that (starting about 8 weeks, I think).
By the time you're at 12 weeks the kid is a whole 2 inches long! Plenty big enough to make (barely) detectable movements. Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
My due date is October 16th or so.
I need to whine for a moment. Ok, I mean, whine more than I've done on previous occasions. I'm having soooo much trouble sleeping. I've had troubles the entire pregnancy falling asleep, but now that I'm bigger it's really bad. Last night I was up till about 4:00am.
And that's not the worst part! I woke up about 4:30am coughing, ran to the bathroom, and promptly vomited a ton. I have no idea why I got sick; that's the first time I've actually thrown up in several years. It's bad enough to wake up to pee, but I really feel that waking up to puke is just asking too much of me right now.
divaesefani, happy due date!
space opera
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
I've been noticing, especially in the last week or so, that my sight is alarmingly blurry when I am wearing my glasses.
Should I see my optomologist? Or should I chalk this development up to pregnancy symptoms that will continue to erratically change and then clear up afterward? There would be no point getting new glasses for that.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
SO, I'm sorry. I am so lost without good sleep. About the sudden nausea, I find when I am pregnant and laying down, I often have to suddenly sit up and burp or I *will* be ill. Stuff coming up my throat. Just one of those things. Maybe if the feeling crept up on me, I would have an episode like that.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by beverly: I've been noticing, especially in the last week or so, that my sight is alarmingly blurry when I am wearing my glasses.
Should I see my optomologist? Or should I chalk this development up to pregnancy symptoms that will continue to erratically change and then clear up afterward? There would be no point getting new glasses for that.
Be sure to mention it to your doctor. While blurry vision is often just a symptom of your fluctuating fluid levels, it can be a serious symptom as well. Especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling of hands or face, severe headache, or vomiting.
It's probably just an annoyance, but it's a good idea to let your doctor know. Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Will do. Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
If I remember right it can be a symptom of high blood pressure, so you really need to let your doctor know.
Posted by seespot (Member # 7388) on :
Well, things have changed with the move--thank goodness! We have decided to stay in Miami for the time being instead of moving to Tampa. We got a larger apartment in the same apartment complex, so we are going from 1 bedroom to 3 bedrooms. Yipee! The move will happen august 22, which is hopefully before the baby--I'll be 38 weeks.
As disappointed as we are not to be leaving Miami(we really are ready to move back to the USA), we are feeling better about life financially. I'm happy not to be living in a hotel either before or after the baby is born. It also allows me to grow my business more in Miami.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Ooo, I am embarrassed to post this, but last night I discovered the source of my poor eyesight. It wasn't my pregnancy or any other health issue.
It was my glasses.
You see, I have a pretty strong astigmatism, so even the slightest change in angle can totally disrupt my eyesight.
Apparently the nose-piece on my glasses had been tweaked just enough that one of the lenses was tilted oh-so-slightly, totally blurring up my vision in that eye.
A little bending, and viola! I can see as well as ever! Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
beverly, I'm glad the probem wasn't pregnancy-related and that it's fixed.
SO, I sympathize! I've been having stomach issues the past couple of days and it's not fun. Having your sleep disrupted is no picnic, either. I was telling someone that I was having trouble sleeping and they laughingly said that it would be practice for when the baby gets here. I somehow refrained from kicking them in the shins.
seespot, I'm glad you've got a place. I'm not a huge fan of Miami, either, but you won't be there forever.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Also, where is my beautiful pregnancy experience? Seriously. My left boob is leaking like crazy - just the left one, which is freaking me out. My stomach is upset from the third round of antibiotics for UTI #3. My back hurts and I can't sleep. Not to mention the ligament pain. I try not to complain (offline), but it's starting to tick me off. Why can't I be one of those women who sails through her pregnancy and misses it after the baby's born?
Although, Ladybug loves Bach and I think that's pretty cool. She moves around like crazy whenever I play any and she doesn't do that for any other composer (we listen to all the majors - Beethoven, Mozart, Handel, Chopin, Vivaldi, Debussy, Tchaikovsky, etc.)
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Maybe she's just writhing in agony.
And from what I've heard, pregnancy isn't something most women sail through. Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Nah. Just the lucky ones. And we hates them. We hates them, my precious!
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
quote: Also, where is my beautiful pregnancy experience? Seriously. My left boob is leaking like crazy - just the left one, which is freaking me out. My stomach is upset from the third round of antibiotics for UTI #3. My back hurts and I can't sleep. Not to mention the ligament pain. I try not to complain (offline), but it's starting to tick me off.
I also don't know where you got the idea that everyone else doesn't also go through all these same griefs. That's pretty much just how it is with pregnancy.
Now...after-the-fact.... we seem to develop "selective" memories, and only remember the good parts..
FG
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Farmgirl, everyone - from my mother to my mother-in-law to my cousins to the women on the stupid pregnancy forums - raves about how wonderful it was/is to be pregnant. Yesterday my mother-in-law told me that most people love being pregnant because the hormones make them feel so good. Since I know she means well (and, frankly, I don't want to pay for the baby's college), I didn't say anything.
It's nice to know I'm not the only one who can't wait to not be pregnant anymore.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Pregnancy is fraught with discomforts. So many things you have to deal with. I've occasionally heard women say that pregnancy hormones give them a "high". Well, isn't that spaecshial for them?
The good thing about pregnancy is feeling close to your baby and the anticipation of his/her arrival. That is pretty amazing.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I had relatively easy pregnancies -- in that, unlike a couple of my friends, I wasn't hospitalized at any point before L&D. But my allergies flared up, I had sciatica (which got REALLY bad with #3), and I was exhausted.
The best part of each pregnancy was when it was OVER. I know there are women who love being pregnant, but I swear. They're aliens. Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Hormones make you feel good?! Anyone who says that is insane.
My hormones make me feel so good that after waking up to my husband's alarm this morning (he'd pushed snooze several times) after getting approximately 4 1/2 hours of sleep I spent the next 45 minutes in the bathroom sobbing. I'm tired of feeling completely out of control and not myself.
I like the big belly, I like feeling the kicks, I like the anticipation, but I'm not enjoying the rest of the process.
space opera
Posted by seespot (Member # 7388) on :
I have had a really good pregnancy, so I really can't complain. However, I wouldn't say I love being pregnant. I miss running, laying on my stomach, seeing my toes, normal sized feet and ankles, tying my shoes easily, wearing cute shoes and normal clothes, not crying at every stupid little thing, and who knows what else. However, when Abby finally decides to make her appearance, I'm sure my memory will become very selective!
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
Well, 5 days after my due date, and I've currently been having contractions for 8 hours. I'm meeting my midwife in about a half an hour to "make a plan." She wouldn't just let me go get checked 2 hours ago at the hospital. Grrrrr! I've been in labor since midnight! (I'm mostly just mad because of the 3 midwives, the one on call today is the one I don't like much.)
Anyways, next time I drop by, I'll have a cute baby boy!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Good luck!
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
You'll be in my prayers, divaesefani. Can't wait to see pictures.
SO, I am so sorry. The loss of emotional control is really hard for me to deal with, so I can relate. Can you nap during the day? That helps me a lot.
Posted by Stray (Member # 4056) on :
Best of luck, divaesefani!
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Everyone loves being pregnant. There's something special about carrying that little life around and feeling them kick, etc. Everyone hates being pregnant, the annoyances are too numerous to mention!
It's a long journey but it's worth it... and it's even better when you have friends to share it with (and gripe to )
Luckily I mostly remember the good bits once it's over.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
(((divaesefani)))
Hope everything went well!
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
My dr. appt. today went well. Baby's heartbeat is good and I'm measuring right where I should be. The only downfalls were the fact that I have a small separation of my upper abdominal muscles (doc said it was fine, especially since it's above my belly button versus below) and the fact that I'm anemic. So, it's back on the disgusting icky iron supplements. I hate them. I stopped taking them because there are so many restrictions and I started eating meat, but the dr. just said to ignore the restrictions and take them. Her point was that some days I might not absorb all of the iron, but either way I'd be absorbing *some* rather than none. Makes sense I suppose.
Mrs. M., I can nap during the day, but I try not to. If I nap during the day then I sleep even worse at night. But I will continue to empathise with you regarding the emotional control. I know that fatigue makes it worse; it's such a vicious cycle!
*waits excitedly for pictures/news from divaesefani*
space opera
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Glad to hear things are going well SO.
I had seperation of my abs a previous pregnancy. You can do some special excercises to help with that during pregnancy. They are like crunches (of course sit ups are out past 5 months! ) where you support your abs with your arms crossed over your tummy. I wish I could find a good web reference for you to look at but every hit I got was about newborns.
From your description I had a worse seperation than you but continuing the supported crunches post partum until the "bulge" was gone and following up with sit ups every day corrected it nicely. No sign of diastasis this time but I have been doing the crunches all through this pregnancy. I'm sure yours will resolve nicely too!
*also waiting for news from divaesefani*
Edit: for typos
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
I found a site that talks about exercises for diastasis recti.
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Thanks Miriya! It's reassuring to hear that the muscles will get back to normal. One of my books said to do "leg slides" and I also plan on being more careful to use my hands/arms to help me lie down and get back up instead of straining my abdominal muscles.
I forgot to add in my earlier post that I began having braxton hicks contractions this week. It feels very odd because I barely had any, if any, with my older children. I've been having at least 3 a day this week. Pregnancy reminds me of raising more than one child - you kind of know what's going to go on during it, but it's always different each time.
space opera
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
SO, ask your doctor if you can take extra B-12 supplements. I'm very anemic most of the time, to the point where the Red Cross turned me away 7 weeks in a row as a donor. I was taking multivitamins and extra iron the whole time.
Then one of the nurses suggested that I try B-12. She said it helps your body absorb iron better. Guess what? Within 3 days my iron was up, I had more energy, and I was sleeping better too.
The last time I donated blood I was in the middle of a menstrual cycle, and my iron was fine. I don't take extra iron anymore, just my multi and B-12.
Posted by Rudolph (Member # 3236) on :
so this is kind of off-topic, but i thought of this when i read the first post from this topic.
when i broke my arm several years ago, i got sick of everyone asking me "what happened" or "how did you break your arm!?" so i wrote "i was playing football and my (huge) friend fell on me" on the cast and would just hold it up everytime someone asked me.
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
Thanks for all the well wishes. We made it through!
After stopping for a quick check at my midwives, we headed to the hospital and got all checked in and such. I used the jacuzzi tub (wonderful!) and then later got a low dose epidural for the pain.
After almost 20 hours of labor, and being 9 1/2 cm dilated, my midwife had me bearing down, trying to get baby's head to press more against my cervix to finish dilation. Each time I did, baby's heart rate would drop, but then recover. One time, it dropped below 60, and wasn't recovering, so they rushed me into an OR for an emergency c section. Luckily, I already had an epidural put in, so they just gave me more drugs, and didn't have to knock me out. Which was excellent, because I really wanted my husband in the room, and if I was knocked out, he wouldn't have been able to be there. Anyways, it turns out that the cord was crowned on top of his head, and then wrapped around his neck, so that whenever I pushed, it would cut of the cord. So it's good we could get in for a c section so fast.
Tyler was born August 10th at 7:25 pm. He is a healthy 8 lb 14 oz baby boy. Baby is doing great and Mom is trying to recover! But we are all happy and plugging through each day an hour (or a nap) at a time!
On a side note, any words of comfort for my milk still not being in 5 days after birth? We're having to supplement formula through a syringe right now, otherwise he'd starve, since he's so big. But I really want to breastfeed, and I'm beginning to wonder if my milk will ever come in! He still latches on every feeding and has excellent suck, and I've done some pumping, so I have plenty of stimulation. Any advice?
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Congrats!! He's absolutely beautiful, and I'm glad you both made it through the birth okay. Have you contacted your local La Leche group? They will have tons of great information on breastfeeding for you. You might also post a shout-out to Ela here on the board. Good luck, and don't give up! I'm afraid I don't have any first-hand info to offer as I never had any problems with milk coming in, but I'm sure it will come in eventually. Enjoy your boy.
space opera
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Yay diva! Your story gives me pause about my strong desire to go natural. If your situation happened to me, I might have to have general anesthesia. I guess you never know.
quote:Any advice?
Herbs. They may not help every case, but I can attest to the fact that they do have an effect. When you look at the different kinds of herbal teas that they sell in most average grocery stores and certainly in health food stores, there is usually one called "Mother's Milk" or something to that effect. The herbs help stimulate milk production.
Every time my daughter hit a growth spurt and needed more milk than I could keep up with, this really helped. I imagine it could also help in a woman who's supply had slowly creeped too low (as happened to me with my second baby--but I didn't know about the herb yet!)
As you search the web, you may find even more info.
Unfortunately, what works for some doesn't work for others. And there are women who for whatever reason cannot breastfeed--even though they would like to. I do hope that your milk comes in and that everything goes as you hope. Either way, enjoy your new son!
Posted by Ela (Member # 1365) on :
divaesefani:
Please find a La Leche League Leader local to your area and discuss your milk supply problems with her. She will be able to discuss exactly what is happening and give you information to help you. It may also be helpful to have a La Leche League Leader or Lactation Consultant observe you breastfeeding to make sure the baby is latching on and sucking effectively. You can find a Leader close to you by searching here:
A La Leche League Leader will be able to refer you to a Lactation Consultant if she thinks that would be beneficial to you.
Also, check out these articles on the "early weeks" of breastfeeding. They have information that will help you understand how to increase your supply and how supply and demand works, especially the first four topics under "The Early Weeks."
Just as a general overview, the more often your baby is on the breast, the quicker your milk supply comes in. A normal newborn nurses every 2-3 hours, at least 8-12 feedings per 24 hours. You should not time your baby at the breast - allow the baby to finish on one side before switching to the other side - but do make sure the baby is actively sucking and swallowing, not sleeping at the breast. Baby’s swallowing sounds should be audible as the baby is breastfeeding. The length of a feeding may be 10 to 20 minutes per breast or longer. Also, make sure the baby is getting a big mouthful of breast, covering as much of the areola (the darker area around the nipple), as possible - hold the baby in very close, belly to belly with you (assuming the cradle hold), so that the baby's nose and chin are lightly touching your breast.
A word about supply and demand: The body gets a message about how much milk to make when the baby sucks effectively on the breast. That's why frequent nursing makes the milk supply come in and get established earlier. If you give supplemental bottles of formula because you think you don't have enough, it can become a self-fulfilling prophecy, because the baby sucks less at the breast and your body gets a message to make less milk.
You can tell the baby is getting enough by looking for the following: The baby should have a least 5-6 wet disposable diapers (6-8 cloth) and 2-5 bowel movements per 24 hour period. The baby should gain at least 4-7 ounces per week after the fourth day of life. The baby will be alert and active, appear healthy, have good color, firm skin, and will be growing in length and head circumference.
Feel free to email me or IM me with your questions. I am a board certified lactation consultant and a mother-baby nurse. Email and AIM in profile.
Hope the breastfeeding will work out well for you.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
I have in my possession a mostly full box of Mother's Milk tea that I'd be happy to send you if you'll send me your address.
Posted by Coccinelle (Member # 5832) on :
Thank you for this thread title! I remembered it today when my girls in class were comparing bellies and I heard "you're so small" or "you're HUGE!" too many times. I told them that everyone was just the right size for their baby and from now on we'd tell each other that. Some of those who had been constantly reminded of how huge/small they were breathed a sigh of relief.
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
Thanks everyone for the advice. My milk production has gone up in the last few days, enough that we are able to wean off the syringe supplement (which was only 5 cc's anyway). I saw my doctor today, and Tyler's weight gain is fine. I had a consultation with a lactation specialist today, and I'm starting to attend a breast feeding support group on Thursday. So everything is going better! I appreciate everyones advice so much. It really has been helpful in making me more comfortable and confident with this whole breast feeding thing.
Boon, thank you for you offer, but I haven't met a tea that I liked. I am now taking fenugreek on the recommendation of my doctor, so that should hopefully accomplish the same thing. I really do appreciate the thought and the offer, though.
I'll keep you all updated on how this saga plays out! Thanks again, everyone!
Posted by seespot (Member # 7388) on :
Okay, question for those who have had babies before. I went to the dr today and he told me that I'm 1 cm dialated, so it won't be too long. I'll be 38 weeks tomorrow. My question is this: what does it mean that "it won't be too long?" Does it mean that I should expect to progress to active labor in the next 24-48 hours? Or that I have under 3 weeks until delivery? I know that labor is different for everyone, but I'm just curious about your experiences, as this is my first child. Also, I think I had some contractions last night, but I'm not sure. I mean I guess I've had contractions, because I've started dialating, but I don't know for sure. Anyway, any ideas anyone?
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
seespot, I'm sorry to tell you this, but there is *so* no way to judge when you will deliver based on dialation.
I was dialated to a 6 for a couple weeks before I gave birth, this last time. Of course, the birth went a lot faster that way. I figure, as much of the dialation as you can get out of the way ahead of time, the quicker/easier your birth will be! ^_^
Medical science still knows very little about why women go into labor when they do, but I think they have noted that the baby itself sends a chemical message of, "I'm ready!" that interplays with some other things in the mother. But if you are a first-time mother, early dialation may mean earlier labor/birth. I have heard (don't know if it is true) that effacement at this point is an even better indicator in first-time mom's of birth not far away.
I had the worst time trying to get my most recent (my third) to come on her own! (My midwife kept telling me I could go to the hospital any time I wanted, they wouldn't turn me away considering my dialation--but I didn't want it to be like that.) I tried everything. I think she was just so comfortable in there, she didn't want out.
Someday maybe medical science will be able to predict these things. But for now it is a mystery and expectant mothers get to be kept in the dark as to when.
Eh, at least we get ultrasounds. Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Congratulations divaesfani! Tyler is beautiful.
I hope you're having more success with nursing. I echo the recommendation to find a local La Leche league group. The support is very helpful. Good luck.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Seespot: I wouldn't expect that a 1cm dilation meant that labour was at all imminent. Many women who have previously given birth vaginally are at 1 or 2 cm long before labour is coming. Even with a first baby it can take weeks to go from 1 to serious labour.
I second beverly in that I think effacement is also a better predicting factor. I started dilating well before true labour in previous pregnancies but I remember that my midwives were here to stay once I got to that elusive "almost paper thin" stage.
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
seespot, yes..what they said. Sorry. You're so close though!
diva, I'm glad the breastfeeding is working out!
Well, I woke up at 5:30 this morning burning up hot for no reason and with terrible heartburn. Looks like a nap will be in order later this afternoon!
I've started nesting in a major way. Mr. Opera has had to remind me that it's ok if I forget to buy something for the baby and promises he'll run right out and get whatever I forgot. I have a running list of things we still need, and the list is down to only about 5 things. I'm cleaning like crazy and trying to get everything ready, but every once in awhile I experience a feeling of unreality, like, "Are you *sure* we're having a real baby?"
space opera
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
We had our u/s to verify the due date today. The doc actually changed the due date to 3/2 (from 3/8). He said he doesn't usually change it if it is within a week, but because my cycles had been short he went ahead and changed it. We will try to scan one of the pics and put it up at Foobonic soon.
Posted by seespot (Member # 7388) on :
Okay, another question from first time mom-to-be.
If I don't have a big gush, how do I know if my water has broken? I think it might have, but I'm really not sure. If it has it's a VERY slow leak. I'm going to see the doc this afternoon. Can I wait until then?
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
I would call your doctor immediately. If you think you are leaking amniotic fluid, I'm willing to believe you are. They can test the fluid pretty easily to know.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Agreed. Although if it's very slow (a few drops every so often) it may be able to wait until this afternoon, wouldn't it be better to check with your doctor by phone now? It's normal office hours now, neh?
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I guess it's time to start posting in here. I'm due April 2.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Did we ever get an update from seespot? Do we know if there is a new spotlet?
Posted by seespot (Member # 7388) on :
There is a spotlet. . . my beautiful daughter Abby was born on August 30 at about 5 A.M. After several hours of labor and 2 hours of pushing, the dr decided that a C section was necessary. The baby hadn't made any progress down the birth canal in 2 hours and her head was swelling. She was face up instead of face down which was problematic. However, both mom and baby are now home and happy. We've been home for about 10 days and my mom just left today(very sad). I'm now adjusting to her eating and sleeping habits. My husband has been wondeful and as helpful has he can be.
Oh! Abby weighed 7 lbs 10 oz and was 21 1/2 inches long. She is absolutely beautiful. Once I get pictures posted somewhere I'll give you guys a link. That way you can see the princess, if your interested!
Thanks for everything, guys. I hope all of your pregnancies continue to go well!
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Congrats seespot!!
Thanks for updating us; I remember well how hectic the life of a new mommy is! Enjoy your beautiful girl!
space opera
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Congrats on the new spotlet. And thanks for letting us know! I know how hard it is for a new mommy to come visit.
Looking forward to seeing pictures, whenever you get a chance. Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Was realizing that I wasn't quite caught up with all the baby news of who is expecting... glad this thread exists!
AJ
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
I just had my doctor appt. We finally got to hear the heart beat. It was between 145 and 150 (another boy according to the old wives tale). According to our home scale I have gained 3 lbs. According to the scale at the doctor's office I haven't gained anything. The doctor actually congratulated me! I guess since I weigh as much now as I weighed at the end of my first pregnancy he isn't concerned about me not gaining weight. He said we can have the next u/s in 8 weeks (I thought it would be 12 weeks). Woohoo! One less month to wait to find out the sex.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Congratulations seespot. Spotlet... I love it!
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Mama Squirrel, that's so exciting about the ultrasound!
I had an appointment on Friday; dr. says baby is doing great and probably about 5 pounds. All of my bedrest restrictions have been lifted, so that was really good news.
However, I still don't recommend preterm labor to anyone. It messes with your head too much. I was all content to wait another 7 weeks before I went into labor, and now the thought of waiting another 4 if I go full-term makes me very grumpy. It doesn't help that everyone is already on "baby watch" - which ususally doesn't happen till later. This morning we went to the bakery for doughnuts and the lady asked me when the baby was coming. I actually said, "Never. He is *never* going to be born." Luckily she understood and just laughed.
I did buy a really cute pair of baby shoes yesterday though. Retail therapy is always helpful.
space opera
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Yay for no more bedrest!
I know what you mean about messing with your head. I never had real preterm labor, but with child #3 I was showing signs of going into labor at about 37 weeks.
Tricky child finally showed up at 42 weeks, literally less than 24 hours before my scheduled induction. FIVE weeks of "any day now!"
Good luck, SO!
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
They do have a way of doing that, don't they rivka? My labor with Superstation started exactly 12 hours before we were supposed to be at the hospital to be induced. I jokingly told the nurse she could cancel my induction for the morning sometime during my very short labor.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Indeed. #2 took the scheduling of the induction as sufficient incentive; #3 was somewhat more stubborn.
Hmm. I think that pattern has held . . .
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Ok, I was actually so upset about this that I couldn't post about it till now!
Sunday night I ended up back at the hospital. Contractions were 6 minutes apart when I went in, so they ran a bag of IV fluid just to see if hydrating me would make them stop. It didn't, and the dr.'s instructions were that the baby could go ahead and be born. Once we discover the contractions aren't stopping and I've been checked (effaced but only a fingertip dialated) the nurse tells me I'm going to have my baby the next day. They put me in a birthing room and reserve me a post-partum room. They also have me fill out birth certificate info and various other kinds of paperwork.
Overnight I continue to have contractions going down at one point to 3 minutes apart and reaching the top of the monitor. The dr. checks me in the morning....and there is almost NO cervical change. I didn't even know you could have contractions like that and not end up with a baby! So, of course, I was sent home (which I suppose is better than being given a pit drip!!). The dr.'s prediction is now that I could easily go this week. She said the baby's head is really far down in my pelvis, so any activity such as walking will help me progress. She said if I rested I might have another week.
Well, I've walked over a friggin' mile every day, the week is half over, and I honestly think my baby is trying to drive me insane. Now not only is he getting a spanking immediately after birth, he is also getting his little crib thingy turned to the corner for time-out. I'm reminding myself that he isn't even due for four more weeks and that the dr. has no idea when he's coming anyway.
space opera
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
I sympathize. I was checked about 6 weeks early because we were planning a road trip. If any dialation or effacement was found, we wouldn't go.
Well, they found some. So while I wasn't put on bedrest, I was told to refrain from all strenuous activity and stay horizontal as much as possible. My dialation steadily increased, till I was about a 6 for 2 weeks. As my due date approached and labor kept coming and going, I began to dispair that she would never be born!
My sister was moving out of state in just days, and I really wanted the child to be born before she was gone. My family was in town and their time was limited as well.
It finally happened the day before the due date. But it sure felt late after all the anticipation!!
Best of luck to you. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Ah, kids that try to fool ya!
Child #1 was induced. So with #2, I was somewhat concerned that I wouldn't be able to recognize real labor (especially since I tend toward fairly intense Braxton-Hicks). But a day after my due date, I was having contractions 5 minutes apart. Like clockwork. And they were really no fun (although not really painful, just a little). Called my doc and headed to the hospital.
When they checked me I was 2 cm dilated -- but that had been true three days before at the doctor's. They suggested that I walk.
I walked. And walked. And walked some more. Contractions the whole time, and some of them really did hurt. Two hours of walking (I still sometimes see Cedars' hallways in my dreams), and they checked me again.
2 cm. I was ready to cry. They sent me home. (Which I agree, is way better than a pitocin drip, which I utterly loathe.) When we got home -- to tell my brother, who was babysitting, no baby yet -- it was almost time for #1 (who was a toddler) to wake up. We did manage to catch about an hour of sleep . . . and while I was sleeping, the contractions finally stopped.
When they started again five days later, I took quite some convincing to believe they were the real thing.
Moral of the story: if my contractions are regular, stay home. When they get irregular, it might be the real thing.
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Ladies, we have progress! I'm not too excited over it (since I know it could still be weeks) but it's nice to have something besides just contractions! Dr. said I'm almost at 2 cm., which she said was "a lot" of change in just 4 days.
One stressor taken care of is we were able to compromise on the hospital's policy of taking the baby on their first day for observation at the nursery for 3 hours. An order is now written up and placed in the nursery that Baby X is to have his hearing test, blood pressure check, assessment, and be returned immediately to Mom...an hour at most.
space opera
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Yay on both points! Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
The hospital that I delivered my babies in let the baby stay in the room with you for as long as you wanted. They only took the baby for the hearing test and I think there was another one but can't remember what it was now. They would also take the baby to the nursery if you wanted them to.
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
Yay for progress, SO!!
At my hospital, we had LDRP rooms, so they do all the initial tests right in your room. The hearing test doesn't even get done until the next day, so that's the first time your baby leaves. But I had the emergency c-section, so I got to kiss Tyler, and then not see him for an hour while I recovered. I wanted to hold him before they took him, but no such luck. Brian went with Tyler for that time, so at least he wasn't alone.
Question for ladies with kids: Did you miss being pregnant when you were done? I didn't think I would miss it, because I was so miserable at the end. Tyler is 6 weeks old now and I keep seeing pregnant women everywhere and it makes me miss it. Is that normal?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yep, that's normal. I looked at my husband while the baby was asleep the day after she was born, sighed in my hospital bed, and said, "I want another baby!" (Meaning, I wanted to have a baby moving around kicking me in the guts again.) I missed it. It's so hard to have them be part of you and then all of a sudden they're this seperate little person all their own! It gets better after a while. (And then it gets worse again. )
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
"One stressor taken care of is we were able to compromise on the hospital's policy of taking the baby on their first day for observation at the nursery for 3 hours"
Wait, why is that a big stressor? Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Some women don't like to be separated from their newborn babies at all.
(Personally, I found it a nice break. I had them keep Ems while I had breakfast and a shower, and felt much better afterwards! But some women hear that and condemn me for it. I don't condemn them for not wanting to be separated, even though it's different feelings than I have. I wish they wouldn't me... Sorry for the tangent there.)
Posted by theCrowsWife (Member # 8302) on :
I didn't miss being pregnant at all. It was even an easy pregnancy, up to the very end, but still not something I pine over.
My hospital also encouraged having the babies room with their mothers. They also had a strict policy that the baby was not to be left alone. So I took Cerra to the nursery when I took a shower. I also took her to the nursery at night, because I had had an emergency c-section and I was not capable of getting out of bed very easily. This way, they just brought her to me when she was hungry, and I called the nurses to take her away when she was done nursing. I should also mention that the hospital also had a very strict "no co-sleeping" rule, so there really wasn't any other option for me.
*shrug* Different people want different levels of contact. There's no need to condemn those who are different.
--Mel
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Theca, kq is correct. I just don't want to be separated from the baby for a long period, particularly on the first day while we're working hard to establish breastfeeding. I think part of the stress was being *told* that my baby would be gone for 3 hours, not being *asked* if that was acceptable.
But, I totally understand people needing different levels of care and contact in the hospital. Heck, I sent Operaetta to the nursery in the middle of the night for a few hours because she wouldn't stop fussing and let me rest. The nurse came in and promised they'd take excellant care of her, and that I really needed some sleep. Good call, since I was going home with a newborn with an active 3-year-old to take care of!
space opera
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Theca, I agree here too. I would feel very weirded out by being seperated from my baby for three hours after birth. I can see needing to send the baby to the nursery if I didn't have my husband or other support person around But I'd HATE it to just have the baby taken when I felt up to having them with me to bond, establish breastfeeding etc.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Space Opera - you have my sympathies. I thought I was going into labour repeatedly with my third child. I felt very goofy considering it was a third child and I should have KNOWN what I was doing. She was almost two weeks overdue.
I went in to the hospital at 28 weeks with my first one. I had a some spotting and had regular contractions. They hooked me up to one of those contraction monitors and I was going right off the chart every two minutes.... but NOTHING was happening. I heard a nurse ask the OB about this and he said "she just has an irritable uterus" I was certainly irritable about being there!
quote: Moral of the story: if my contractions are regular, stay home. When they get irregular, it might be the real thing.
True for me too. My braxton hicks are almost always very regular (say every 2-3 minutes for a few hours) and then go away. This time around I'm already having episodes like that, at only 27 weeks. My real labour contractions never get that regular... but I think I'll recognize them this time. Fourth time is the charm! Posted by Goody Scrivener (Member # 6742) on :
Maybe because I didn't know any different, I had no problems with the staff taking the kids after birth. I had time to cuddle each of them after their initial apgars and measurements, and then I had a nice little nap before I had to deal with family or nurses or anyone else in my room. With my two, the hospital wasn't yet doing live-in arrangements, and the eldest spent a lot of time under bili lights anyway. The two that I carried pseudo-surrogate lived in with me after birth until it was time for me to go home. And to be honest, I can't say that I prefer one situation over the other, because I was in very different emotional and maturity states at the time, and each time it seemed *right* to me.
And in response to the question on the last page about missing being pregnant, I periodically found myself wondering why I wasn't feeling movement in the first couple days after delivery. Mostly when I first woke up in the mornings or after a nap. Or I'd wake up on my belly or side and wonder how I managed that one with a watermelon of a gut. But even though I had four very easy pregnancies, I never really found myself wishing that it wasn't over. Little things like being able to tie my own shoes or get up off the couch without laying down on my side and rolling off... those wonderful things we take for granted the rest of our lives. heehee
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
You know, thinking about it, they broke up the tests at the hospital I was at anyway. They never kept her more than an hour at a time unless I asked them to.
I was too dazed to notice at the time, anyway.
I think for me what I missed, really, was being able to protect her completely-- to feed her, take care of her, and all I had to do was feed and take care of myself. It was hard for me to let her be her own person for the first few days.
Luckily, for the first few days (weeks) she was breastfeeding 30-40 minutes at a time every hour and a half or so anyway. Or not so luckily.
As for contractions, I had hard, strong, regular contractions for two weeks before my OB took pity and induced me 2 days past my due date (which I kept saying wasn't right, and they confirmed that after she was born...)
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
Well, I am back to my pre-pregnancy weight again. The first time I went back down was because of one day of the stomach flu. This time the culprit is diarrhea (I know, tmi). The diarrhea appears to have stopped, but I am still having cramps sometimes. If I still have cramps tomorrow I may call the doctor.
I am still waiting to feel the baby move. I am 17 1/2 weeks so it should be soon. I think it was around 18 to 19 weeks that I have felt them the other two pregnancies. I think feeling the baby move is my favorite part of being pregnant.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Awww, I like that, too.
I hope I'm able to get to a doctor soon. I'd like to know how far along I really am. The only way they're going to figure it out is with a sonogram. *sigh*
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Miriya:
quote: Moral of the story: if my contractions are regular, stay home. When they get irregular, it might be the real thing.
True for me too. My braxton hicks are almost always very regular (say every 2-3 minutes for a few hours) and then go away. This time around I'm already having episodes like that, at only 27 weeks. My real labour contractions never get that regular... but I think I'll recognize them this time. Fourth time is the charm!
Cool! You're the first woman to whom I'm not related I know that has that.
I'm not alone! Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: I hope I'm able to get to a doctor soon. I'd like to know how far along I really am. The only way they're going to figure it out is with a sonogram. *sigh*
Not necessarily. Measurment of the fundus can be quite accurate, especially in the second trimester. Also, when the fetal heartbeat is first detected -- but too late for that, presumably. Probably too late for the fetal heart rate spike too.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Yay! I can totally relate to the hard, regular, close contractions that nothing comes of. Hopefully I will be better prepared to deal with such "confusion" this time.
I have my 20-week ultrasound tomorrow! I'm psyched! And I *might* get one o' them new-fangled 4D machines! (If I'm lucky)
quote:Measurment of the fundus can be quite accurate, especially in the second trimester.
Hmmm... troubling since I am measuring rather big on the fundus as well as the early ultrasound.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
What does your doctor say about that, beverly? I assume twins have been ruled out.
Keep in mind that the uterine muscles do tend not to snap back all the way after a few pregnancies. This birth will make you a grand multipara, neh?
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Well, if I am having twins, one of them must be a ninja. Didn't show up on the first ultrasound.
I won't be a grand mulitpara *yet*. This is number 4, though it is prengancy number 5. I suppose loose muscles might explain it. Or maybe it's fast-growing demon-spawn a la Buffyverse.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Oops. Why did I think you had four kids already?
This is the sort of question that your doctor, I'm sure, would be happy to answer and set your mind at ease about . . . although most are not experts on fast-growing-demon-spawn.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
[quote] Measurment of the fundus can be quite accurate, especially in the second trimester.[/qoute]
Well, I sure hope I get in to the doctor before the second trimester. It may not be too late for the spike, although it may be.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote: Well, I sure hope I get in to the doctor before the second trimester.
Oh, I certainly hope so! I was merely saying that an ultrasound (which can be fairly expensive, even with insurance) might not be necessary to make the determination.
Besides, even if they do an ultrasound, the most common time to do one is between the 20 and 24 weeks, IIRC.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
quote:This is the sort of question that your doctor, I'm sure, would be happy to answer and set your mind at ease about . . .
Well, the ultrasound tomorrow may shed some light on the issue. My CNM seemed a little surprised at my uterus size, but she said it wasn't uncommon.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
*nod* And the ultrasound should detect demon-spawn, if present. Unless they are ninja demon-spawn, of course.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
You say that so seriously. I love you.
As for the sonogram, I ended up having 5 my last pregnancy-- 2 of them in an attempt to get an accurate due date. Because my periods are so irregular, they wanted that extra assurance. (And apparently, they still got it wrong by about a week and a half-- luckily for me, they induced me just three days after my presumed due date. Otherwise Emma might have had problems.)
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: You say that so seriously. I love you.
Well, yes . . . should I not?
( And you know I can manage the dead-pan delivery in person too. )
Yeah, given your history, a quick ultrasound with the smaller machines most OB-gyns keep on hand is probably indicated.
*thought* I'm very bad with geography. Santa Monica is not at all convenient to you, neh? Like, it's even in the completely wrong direction? Because the ob-gyn who delivered all three of mine (well, she didn't get there fast enough to deliver #3, but her name is on the birth certificate anyway) is in Santa Monica. And last I checked, she was on a bunch of insurance lists, including Blue Cross.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Santa Monica is about an hour from us. And I don't like female doctors. (Not on a personal level, I just don't like to go to them. I love the ones we have here, and I don't doubt their competence or anything-- I just have issues from my childhood with female doctors.)
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Well, nevermind then. Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
quote:And I *might* get one o' them new-fangled 4D machines!
WOW!!!! Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, my sister-in-law had one of those when she was pregnant with my neice. It was pretty freakin' cool. (She paid extra for it, though.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Alright, the strange cravings have started. Today I want pineapple ham pizza, which only happens when I'm pregnant.
Last time, I had an aversion to Ranch dressing, which I had always enjoyed before and after. This time, Ranch is fine, but I can't stand the thought of meatballs.
Actually, the aversion to meatballs started about three weeks ago. Thinking back, that may have been my very first symptom. Weird.
Posted by School4ever (Member # 5575) on :
OK, so I am not pregnant, but my husband and I did adopt a baby boy on September 7th.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Congratulations School4ever. That's exciting!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Congrats!
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
I keep scrolling back wondering when everone is due so to save the effort I made a list. Please correct me if I'm off or I missed anyone.
There's definitely something in the water. They weren't sure I COULD get pregnant again... then I registered here and *BING*
[ September 27, 2005, 07:08 PM: Message edited by: Miriya ]
Posted by Megan (Member # 5290) on :
Hmm. Maybe I should start avoiding Hatrack.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*giggles*
Megan, if you have one and don't want it, I know some Hatrackers who would take it off your hands. You could consider yourself a surrogate for them. Posted by Diosmel Duda (Member # 2180) on :
My adjusted due date is April 5, by the way.
My food aversions are getting a bit out of hand. I'm starting to be able to handle sugar, but now fat is making me sick. Protein, fruits, and veggies are always good. I feel the best when I eat lots of meat and vegetables for dinner.
I've noticed that Cheerios and peanut butter toast is my best breakfast, feeling-good-wise. Probably because it's low sugar and highish protein.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Hmmmm Diosmel... you're Brinestone right? If so which name to people actually know you by. I get thrown by all the aliases.
Posted by Diosmel Duda (Member # 2180) on :
I'm Brinestone, yes. This was my first name, but I switched to Brinestone two years ago. Currently Brinestone is at 999 posts and I'm trying to decide about a landmark. In the meantime, I switched to my old nick. Hope it's not too confusing.
If it's easier, you can just call me Ruth. That's what most people who know me do anyway.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
I'm sure I'll catch on when I've been around long enough. If you plan to landmark as Brinestone I'll leave your due date listed as Brinestone too and I'll update it.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
SOOOO nauseated right now. Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Congrats, Amy! I didn't know!
Well, I did get to have a bit of the 4D imaging, but it was only a brief few frames that "moved" (very jerkily) and then it was freeze-framed on a very nice shot of our baby's face! So cool to have a portrait of our unborn child! We should be posting pics soon.
Oh, and it's a boy.
Edit: Take it easy, KQ, and keep those crackers close at hand. Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
We don't have Jenny G's date on there, where does she fit in?
Posted by Diosmel Duda (Member # 2180) on :
Am I weird if I never had any desire to eat crackers when I felt nauseated?
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
No. With my first pregnancy just the thought of them made me nauseous.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
And we're out. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Does ginger in another form help at all? I used to nibble on candied ginger to reduce my nausea.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Candied ginger does help, but ginger beer is milder and more pleasant-- less likely to trigger my heartburn. Plus the light carbonation also settles my tummy some.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I keep throwing up my prenatal vitamins.
Does anyone have anything that helps with that? Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Is there a time of day that you are least nauseous?
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
kq, have you tried Preggie Drops? The one pregnancy symptom I didn't have much of was morning sickness, but these helped me a lot.
I think I still have some left and I'd be happy to send them to you - just email me your address if you'd like.
On another note, why hasn't my hair started falling out? It's just gotten thicker and thicker since I had Aerin.
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
Take the PNV with food? Split it up and take it partly with lunch, partly with dinner?
How do you do with phenergan for nausea? I know you don't have a doctor yet but your dad could order some or you could substitute benadryl for it. I also just put someone on reglan last month because phenergan wasn't helping and she thinks reglan works great.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I had a dream last night that I was pregnant...could even feel the baby kick. It was so weird that this morning I felt my stomach just in case. Didn't feel nothing.
But still, it makes me nervous to have this hatrack epidemic going on of Pregnant ladies. Don't get me wrong, I am just aching to have a baby--but we just can't afford it right now. (I'd have to work, and I want to be able to stay home. So now's not the time.)
But if being a member of hatrack makes it inevitable....
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
kq, have you tried the vanilla-coated vitamins? I can't remember which brand(s) it is (there's at least one brand name and a generic), but they were an absolute lifesaver when I was pregnant.
They smell/taste like vanilla, instead of that nasty smell most multivitamins have.
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
Have you tried anice? The smell of it helped settle my stomach when I was pregnant.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
According to my midwives, prenatal vitamins aren't essential for women who eat a healthy diet, especially during the first trimester. Folic acid IS essential but can be taken by itself which is both cheaper and easier to swallow.
Thats what I did for my first trimester while my HG problems were at their worst.
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
I used to take my prenatal vitamins right before I went to bed. I fall asleep quickly, and apparently the nausea is not enough to wake me up, or else doesn't happen when I'm sleeping. That was the only way I could do it.
Farmgirl
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Yikes! I was a bit perplexed by some of the posts regarding morning sickness, including some of the drug recommendations for it. I just realized that Diclectin ISN'T available in the US.
Diclectin is listed by the FDA as a class A drug for nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. As far as I know all the other drugs mentioned are class C... and yet it isn't available to women in the US. Without this drug I'd spend my entire pregnancy in and out of hospital being rehydrated. You all have my sympathies! Hopefully I'm the only hatrack mom to be with severe hyperemesis.
If I were pregnant in the US with morning sickness and was anywhere near the Canadian border, I'd be hopping over to go to the nearest pharmacy!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
FG, I tried that because I get nauseated when I drink anything with my food, but I get nauseated when I take the vitamins without food.
I woke up at 1:30 and threw up until 3.
quote:How do you do with phenergan for nausea? I know you don't have a doctor yet but your dad could order some or you could substitute benadryl for it. I also just put someone on reglan last month because phenergan wasn't helping and she thinks reglan works great.
Phenergan was a lifesaver last pregnancy-- although I ended up cutting the pills in half because half a dose was enough to kill the nausea and vomiting, but a whole pill knocked me out for the rest of the day. However, I don't think I'm to the point where I want to try medication quite yet-- I took it last time because I was throwing up so often that I ended up in the emergency room because I had burst a blood vessel in my throat and threw up blood. (They had to flush my stomach to make sure it wasn't an ulcer. I NEVER want to do that again!) If I get to the point where it's bad enough that I need medication, I will definitely ask for phenergan, which works wonderfully for me!
quote:According to my midwives, prenatal vitamins aren't essential for women who eat a healthy diet, especially during the first trimester. Folic acid IS essential but can be taken by itself which is both cheaper and easier to swallow.
Yes, but my morning sickness is so bad that I can't get a healthy diet-- AND I'm still nursing my 18-month-old twice a day. My mom and I agree it's important to take a supplement right now. She managed to get a hold of some coated ones that taste like nothing going down for me (thanks for the suggestion, Rivka, but if pills taste like ANYTHING, even anything good, I throw up immediately.) (That also rules out splitting it-- it would taste like B vitamins and I wouldn't get near it without puking.)
I'm considering maybe taking it after my dinner has settled a little but before my stomach is completely empty, with two saltines tonight. Hopefully that will work. *crosses fingers*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
New problem: I'm incredibly thirsty but I can't drink without throwing up.
Sheesh.
I'm going to have to pretend I'm sick and take a small sip of Sprite every 15 minutes if I don't want to totally dehydrate.
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
And yet you're not ready yet for phenergan the wonder pill. Hmmm. *raises brow*
(I'm just teasing. You can make that decision)
Aren't breast fed babies supposed to get turned off by breast milk when another pregnancy occurs?
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
KQ, don't you just wish you could hook yourself up to an I.V. and be done with it?
Nausea sucks. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Theaca: Aren't breast fed babies supposed to get turned off by breast milk when another pregnancy occurs?
Some babies are more determined (or uncaring about the change in taste) than others. A significant number of mothers tandem nurse a toddler and an infant.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, Ems has cut back a bit, but still gets very upset if she doesn't get her "na-nas" at night and in the morning, at least for a few minutes. I think it's much more of a comfort thing for her than a nutrition thing.
quote:And yet you're not ready yet for phenergan the wonder pill. Hmmm. *raises brow*
Acutally, I'm just not ready to start taking it before I'm under the care of the doctor I'm going to be seeing for my pregnancy yet. (Medi-Cal papers should come in a few days, but until then I'm still playing it safe.)
And I haven't told anyone in my family except my mom that I'm pregnant yet-- and I'm not going to until I've figured out this whole due date thing, because that's the first thing they'll all ask.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:KQ, don't you just wish you could hook yourself up to an I.V. and be done with it?
*giggle* It sure would make things easier, wouldn't it!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I swear that this baby held back until I started to get excited about having it... and then unleashed its full powers to make me uncomfortable and sick. >_<
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
My husband brought home Sprite and it's going down just fine! Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
kq, sounds like you got the vitamin nausea under control, but I had a success with a prenatal vitamin with reduced iron. Didn't someone here recommend one for me? I seem to remember posting the very same thing. Hang in there with the nausea. Its no fun.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
*giggle*
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
dkw, you are very restrained.
I'm not. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Giggle indeed.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*snorts*
*laughs*
*tries not to laugh out loud and wake the baby*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*pokes her nose in*
I got some really cute maternity clothes with a Target gift card my aunt gave me.
I think I get more judgemental when I'm pregnant. (That's not completely unconnected, I just don't think I'm going to share the in-between thought. )
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Congrats on your pregnancy, kq!
I'm now 12 days (eek!) away from my EDD and finding it just about impossible to focus on anything but the coming baby. It's like the rest of the world has gone into soft focus. I have a horrible cold and a hacking cough right now, so I'm actually hoping that he decides to hold off on being born for a bit longer.
We were offered an induction with cervical gel this Friday. How tempting! The dr. offered it because there is concern on both ends about getting to the hospital in time (if Mr. Opera is at work it will take at least 80 minutes to get there; Operaetta's labor/delivery was less than 4 hours). However, we decided to decline for the time being. The plan is just to continue working on umm...natural...methods on weekends and to call Mr. Opera at the first contraction with pain if he's at work. I still can't believe I'm going to be a mother of 3 soon!
space opera
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Wow. My mom had my second sister 12 minutes after she arrived at the hospital-- 2 minutes after she got to the delivery room. She didn't push. By the time she asked the doctor, "Can I push now?" my sister was already born.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Space Opera, I'm so glad you've made it so close to you EDD! Preterm labor is just the pits and the NICU isn't fun, either. I'm thrilled that you've dodged both.
kq, I had a lot less patience when I was pregnant. Frankly, I don't have that much patience for anything or anyone but Aerin right now, but hopefully that'll change once she's home.
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Yikes! See, I'm hoping to have a longer labor this time around. Operaetta came about 40 minutes after getting to the hospital, and it was very chaotic and kind of frightening. All the laboring plans I had flew out the window, and everything felt completely out of control. I get a lot of "Oh, weren't you lucky!" but I think a rapid labor has cons just like a slow one does.
Today I had to run into the kids' school for something and some lady I barely know says, "You still haven't had that baby yet?" I wanted to kick her, but instead said we had 11 more days till the due date. Mr. Opera said he hadn't realized till now how much questions like that can bug you!
space opera
edit: Mrs. M., you snuck in there! *waves*
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
quote:By the time she asked the doctor, "Can I push now?" my sister was already born.
Huh. Did she have any sort of anesthesia? If my child were born and I had full possession of my senses, I'd know. I'd know by the sudden, complete, and absolute absense of pain and pressure.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
No, she had been promised anesthesia but her labor progressed so fast that by the time she got there, she was in transition.
That's the thing-- she had the urge to push and all but they kept telling her to hold back, and Megan just came on her own. We have very wide hips and birth canals in my family, and she had delivered her first, a footling breech, only a few years before. She had me a full 9 1/2 years after Megan, and I was her longest labor-- a full 8 1/2 hours, almost an hour and a half of it at the hospital.
With my brother, she had contractions from 5 months until delivery (10 days before her due date.)
I pushed exactly 4 times with Ems. I've been told that's remarkable for a first child.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Wow! That is such a crazy-wide variety in labors!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yup. The only common thread being that they progress fast-- at least compared to many women. Runs in the family-- at least, as far as I know. Her sister had the same thing, although her contractions weren't strong enough and the nurse literally got on top of her and pushed with her second. My cousin has three children and has never had more than 6 hours of labor.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Fast labour: that can be scary! I was at an appointment with one of my midwives when she was paged by another client.
Midwife: I got your page, _____ What's happening with you? Woman: I think the baby is coming... hold on. (pause) Woman: Actually the baby is HERE! Midwife: I'll be right there (running out the door)
Appearantly that lady put the phone down, caught her baby and then got back on the phone! Mind you that was a FIFTH baby.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Hang in there Space Opera. Those last couple weeks seem to last forever.
I'm getting impatient and I've got a longer way to go! (80 days and counting ... )
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Oh man, that would be fast. I would be so scared to birth all alone!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I was doing so well. Three days with no vomit. And then...
I just threw up a can of Sprite. SPRITE. Which I had sipped VERY SLOWLY. Some of it came out my NOSE. It burns and hurts and is absolutely disgusting.
I am starting to secretly hope that that April due date which I am so sure is wrong is actually right, just so this might be over sooner. I HATE THROWING UP!!!
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
*hugs KQ and SO*
*laughs hysterically at accidental Tom posting, especially since I'm fairly sure he'll never know*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:Frankly, I don't have that much patience for anything or anyone but Aerin right now, but hopefully that'll change once she's home.
I think the NICU counts as the rest of your pregnancy. You're allowed to be grumpy, touchy, emotional, and snap at everyone in sight while she's in there, just like if she was still in utero.
And then be weepy and overwhelmed when she comes home.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
AGAIN.
That is IT. I'm going back to bed, I don't feel nearly as sick when I don't get up until 10:30 or so.
I only got up to put the corned beef and potatoes and carrots in the crockpot, anyway.
Posted by Storm Saxon (Member # 3101) on :
I wish I had the guts to make a dobie of this thread on the front page. Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
Slurpies don't hurt as much when they come back up. They tend to be cold and not burn.
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Ahh, the sappiness of late pregnancy...
Dear Baby,
I got to thinking yesterday that I was going to have to share you soon. We have just 8 days to go till you're due and you'll be here any time now.
I'll warn you - I'm not a pillar of ethics. I didn't like the thought of sharing you. For almost 40 weeks it's been just you and me. I was the first one to know you even existed, and the first one to feel your movements. I was the first to love you, though the others weren't far behind.
And they do love you, Baby. I guess that's what softens the blow that soon you'll be everyone else's and not just mine.
Your big brother tells me every day he can't wait till you get here. It's funny; he's ten years old and has steadfastly ignored all babies until now. But you, you're special. Your tiny socks and sleepers make him say, "awwww." He lists all of the things he wants to do with you and everything he wants to teach you. Pay attention to him once you get here. Out of all the things he longs to teach you, the most important thing you'll learn is the value of being yourself. Your brother is amazing, creative, funny, and intensely unique. I don't know if I've ever met someone so comfortable in their own skin.
Your big sister says she loves you but she's nervous about not being the "littlest one" anymore. I think we can grant her that, eh? She'll be the last one standing over your crib as you fall asleep, and the first one noticing that you've awoken. Believe me, her sweet face will be a beautiful sight to wake up to. Like your brother, she has something important to teach you. You see, it's easy to take your sissy at face value. She's silly and sometimes even a little crazy. But listen to her laugh, and listen carefully. Your sister was sick a lot when she was younger; now it almost seems another lifetime ago. She went through a lot of pain and a lot of time looking at doctors, and not once did she stop laughing. Within her lies a strength that few people realize.
Your daddy is...how can I even begin to tell you about him? I admire and respect him more than any other person on Earth. He is unfailingly honest and decent and completely in love with you already. You should have seen his face light up last week - your little foot was sticking out and he gently poked it. A second later you poked back, and your daddy's grin was one of the most lovely things I've ever seen. You'll learn kindness from him, Baby, just as your brother and sister have. I see it in the way they make sure each duck gets a piece of bread when we walk around the pond, and the way they stop to move a caterpiller out of the path of harm. Your daddy is the type of man who traps a spider in a cup and throws it outside rather than harm it; that should tell you what kind of man he is. I'm incredibly fortunate not only to be his wife, but also to be raising children with him.
And then you have me. In this remarkable family you're about to be born into I remain the unremarkable one. I'm smart but not too smart, funny but not too funny, pretty but not too pretty...you get the picture. Each day I look at the three amazing people I share my life with and can't believe my good fortune. I'm awed that I have the love of a man like your father and that somehow I've managed to produce the two spectacular people who are your siblings. I feel grateful every single day to whatever force allowed me to become part of their lives. Call it destiny, call it God, call it biology - whatever name you call it, it's wonderful. So I guess in the end I have something pretty important to teach you too. Always recognize love, Baby. Allow yourself to be humbled by what binds you to others, and never take it for granted. You're a pretty lucky person already, just like me. You get to come into a world where four people love you more than anything and will always be there for you. There's so much love waiting for you, and none of us have even seen your sweet face yet.
And that love is what makes it okay. I couldn't share you with people who didn't love you as much as I do. So soon it won't be just you and me anymore; it will be all of us. So while I might not be a pillar of ethics for not wanting to share at first, you have to admit - I've picked you a pretty nice family.
Love, Mommy
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Awww. How sweet.
I don't get sappy in late pregnancy. I get incredibly grumpy and really mean.
The sappiness hits after the baby is born.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I'd venture to wager your family thinks you are pretty amazing as well Space Opera.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
That was beautiful, SO.
[whine]
I'm feeling solidarity with ketchupqueen and anyone else suffering the ill effects of morning sickness. I have true hyperemisis. I've seen that defined in different medical books as excessive nausea and vomiting in pregnancy including a) vomiting more than 25 times per day or b) vomiting to the point of requiring IV rehydration. I fit either definition when I'm without my meds. With my meds I feel icky but I can live normally.
A couple days ago I went to get my refill of my meds (totally routine) and the pharmacy LOST THE MEDS! They had already billed my insurance and "couldn't bill it again" They wanted $100 to give me my drugs (which were paid for by my insurance already but that was the ones I never got which they lost!). I didn't have the money, was standing there with my three other little ones, and had already been cooling my heels while they tried to find my prescription for over an hour!
I had to leave that day but I did eventually go in there and, with threats to report them to the college of pharmacists for gross incompetence, now have my meds again. I went without for over two days sorting this out and while I just got them and took one this afternoon I feel AWFUL!!!
Did I mention it's Thanksgiving weekend in Canada and I'm going to a family dinner tomorrow AND another on Monday? *sigh* I need a green sick looking graemlin.
[/whine] I'll feel better soon... I'll just keep saying that.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*prays that Miriya will wake up feeling better in the morning*
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Thanks kq. I'm starting to feel a little better. I'm not sure if the meds are kicking in or it's the emergency "skinny chips" my husband got me that I've been munching. Either way it's progress. Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
I feel for you Miriya. That's rediculous about your meds.
I had serious morning sickness and I was hosting Thanksgiving last year! Tom started first thing in the morning sauteeing onions and that was it for me for the rest of the day. He had to finish all the food and I managed to eat a few bites, but mostly sat on the floor in the hallway where I was just close enough to the company to be personable, but far enough away from the food and close enough to the bathroom.
SO, that made me cry! I'm feeling sappy today. *hugs* What a wonderful person you are and what a wonderful family you have!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Throwing up is even less fun when in between heaves you have to keep saying, "It's all right. Mommy's okay" to your 18-month-old, who is looking very worried about what's going on and is trying to climb the baby gate to get to you. Posted by jeniwren (Member # 2002) on :
I was in the green stages of pregnancy for Thanksgiving the year before Rainbow was born. It was made worse by the fact that we were visiting my father in law, who was in the final stages of terminal cancer. It was all I could do to keep from throwing up the entire time I was there, due to the smells and sounds involved with his illness. And then feeling like the worst person in the world for wishing myself far away, when we knew there was very little time left.
I kept reminding myself that this was going to be a very brief period of time in teh grand scheme of things, but it really didn't make any difference. I feel for you kq, Miriya.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*shakes*
I think my blood sugar is getting kinda low.
But nothing I eat will stay down today. Posted by jeniwren (Member # 2002) on :
kq, is there anything your doctor can offer to help?
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
She has to get a doctor, first. Posted by jeniwren (Member # 2002) on :
(kq)
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Take care of yourself, kq.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:She has to get a doctor, first.
Exactly. We don't have a birth certificate for Emma, and we've sent for one but it will take weeks. So I called and they're sending an affidavit for me to sign. But once that gets there, I should be able to get in to see a family practitioner (within walking distance so I don't have to work around when Jeff needs the car), who will then be able to (finally!) refer me to an OB (whom I will hopefully be able to get to. My mom has offered rides if I have early appointments, although we would have to take the bus back; I'm going to ask my grandma, who also lives nearby, if she can possibly watch Emma on the days I have appointments.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I kept down my dinner! 2 1/2 servings of it! And a glass of milk and a prenatal vitamin! Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Yay!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
*thumbsup*
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Congrats on keeping food down, ketchupqueen. I hope you find a doctor that you like. Poor little Emma! I realized how difficult it would be to be sick with a child when I heard one of my hospital neighbor's little boy crying every day when he had to leave his mother. My heart goes out to you and your little sweetie.
Miriya, I can't imagine doing Thanksgiving during such terrible morning sickness. Can't you just sit this one out?
Space Opera, how are you? Any contractions?
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
I'm also waiting to hear from Space Opera. I'm getting impatient for my birth so I'm trying to live vicariously through others until my time comes. Mrs. M. your blog is wonderful, I check it every day. I'm so glad little Aerin is doing well.
Hang in the kq. Having little Emma upset when you're sick is hard. Kids are resilient though and she'll be okay. My son was about that age when I became pregnant for my daughter (they're 22 months apart) After a couple weeks he'd just bring me a bucket and pat me on the head when I looked green. This time they're all older and can bring cool drinks, tissue, etc. which is handy. Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
quote: Miriya, I can't imagine doing Thanksgiving during such terrible morning sickness. Can't you just sit this one out?
I couldn't really get out of it since we hadn't seen my husband's cousins since my wedding (that's pushing a decade now) At least I didn't have to cook and it went reasonably well. I just ate sparingly.
I'm feeling much better now.... and I'll make sure I refill my meds well before I run out next time.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oooh, helper monkeys. Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
I knew a girl last year whose husband accidentally slammed the door with her finger still in it. She screamed in pain and after the door got opened was in excruciating pain and couldn't hide it. The three year old daughter was just beside herself. She described her daughter's reaction to me and just hearing about that kid's anguished reaction made me feel awful.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Emma always seems worried that she's the one who hurt me when I stub my toe or anything. It's so sad and sweet at the same time! And she tries to make me better by bringing me Baby (her baby doll) and kissing me and bringing me food.
This morning I must have looked kinda sick because when I was giving her her breakfast, she insisted on feeding me all her canteloupe. Then she asked for more, and I thought she would eat it this time. Nope. It all went to me.
And I kept it down, too, I think because it was fed to me with loving little Emma fingers. Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Food goes down so much better with a side dose of baby love. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yup. And the small amount of water and sugar really did make me feel better. At least for a while.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
quote:I'm also waiting to hear from Space Opera.
No news is good news, right?
KQ, the image of your daughter concerned as you are so sick is so pitiful! I remember the time Porter and I were flat on our backs sick and our one child (at the time) had found an old piece of sandwich he had apparently squirreled away. We were just so glad that he found something to eat!
quote:I knew a girl last year whose husband accidentally slammed the door with her finger still in it. She screamed in pain and after the door got opened was in excruciating pain and couldn't hide it. The three year old daughter was just beside herself. She described her daughter's reaction to me and just hearing about that kid's anguished reaction made me feel awful.
This is one of the many reasons I balk at the idea of a home-birth. Not only does being around my kids stress me out and keep me from concentrating, do I really want them to see me go through that?
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
I find hospitals stress me out and keep me from concentrating. It's all a matter of what works for you.
My last home birth my two older kids were 22 months and 3 years old. They both SLEPT though the whole event. We tried waking them just to see their new sister. One didn't wake and the other opened one eye said, 'mmmmph, baby *snore*' So it isn't traumatic for kids by definition. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Maybe you don't yell quite like I do. Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
My husband was reading this (I still haven't convinced him to register but I'm working on it) and he assures you I yell just fine. But he admits I yelled far more briefly for my home births than during my three day hospital labour.
Actually I recall noticing AFTER my daughter was born that we had left the window open. I was absolutely mortified!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Let me rephrase: Maybe you don't yell quite what I do. Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
bev, no news is BAD news
I am soooo friggin' (insert real strong curse words here) sick of (more curse words) contractions. My entire abdomen tightens up if I just bend over, and last night the contractions were all in my back. Poor Mr. Opera gets so excited when they start, and so disappointed when they stop (though he tries to hide it). This is completely unlike the end of my other pregnancies and I'm not liking it one bit!
I have a dr.'s appointment on Friday during which she's said she wants to do a non-stress test. I'm kinda worried that she's really going to start pushing the induction card. I feel it's far too early for the testing (I'll still be 2 days away from my EDD) so I'm doing everything I can to encourage labor to begin.
**Possible TMI**
Mr. Opera and I have agreed that you have to really love each other to want to have sex at this point. It involves far too much laughing to incite much passion.
space opera
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
quote:This is completely unlike the end of my other pregnancies and I'm not liking it one bit!
Been there. The first two, it was so straight-forward. Sure there was one or two occasions of "false labor", but when it hit, it hit hard and sudden and there was no question. Then my third kept being on and off, on and off, on and off. There seemed to be no end in sight. I was dialated to a 6 and they kept saying, "Just go to the hospital. They won't turn you away." But I did *not* want to be induced. And I wanted most of my labor to happen at home.
Well, since I am planning to go natural again, I would use those contractions to practice meditation and relaxation techniques. But it is still disappointing when they don't go anywhere. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Hey. At least they stop.
Mine didn't. For two weeks. Until I went in to be induced.
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
Hahaha, SO! I so totally agree with your TMI!
*Hugs* for KQ. I'm not looking forward to the first trimester of my next pregnancy. I don't know if I can do it with one kid already here! If it wasn't illegal, I'd mail you my leftover Zofran to help you get through until you can see a doctor. Those pills totally helped me survive the holidays (and longer) last year!
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
Not all your pregnancy will be the same. In my first pregnancy my morning sickness started in the second trimester and I threw up just about every day. With my second pregnancy I would be nauseous only at night and I only threw up once.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
quote: In my first pregnancy my morning sickness started in the second trimester and I threw up just about every day.
Really? I've been wondering about this. Because I didn't have any nausea to speak of in the first trimester, but I've been queasy here in the second. I've never heard of this happening before.
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
It might have started at the end of the first, but it lasted through most of the second.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
Yesterday was 20 weeks. Half way there. Woohoo!
Just had a check up and got to hear the heart beat again. I feel much better. I had been getting concerned that I had not felt the baby move yet, well after the time I felt the first two. Anyway, all is well. The next visit will be the find-out-the-sex ultrasound. Hopefully the baby cooperates.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Mama, I know people who did not feel their baby move until near the end, if then, and they were born very healthy; they just had very mellow babies. (As opposed to Emma, who didn't stop turning somersaults until I was in transition. :| ) Good luck! Maybe you'll get a mellow kid this time!
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
I'm not so concerned with mellow. My first priority is healthy. My second priority is girl, although all but one person says it's another boy. Oh well, I guess we will live up to the family tradition of 3 boys and 1 girl, assuming I eventually get my girl. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm sure the baby will be perfectly healthy. (((hugs)))
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Congrats Mama! I expected to feel this little guy move much earlier than my first two, but didn't, so it's probably just the same situation for you. Just remember (and I'm sure you do!) that eventually it gets to the part where I am where you groan every time they move 'cause it hurts...lol. I told Mr. Opera yesterday that we needed to inform Baby that the exit is down since he seemed determined to bust out the side of me using a foot.
Happy due date to me!
My appointment on Friday went great. The dr. didn't say a single word about induction and simply scheduled to see me again next week. We did have to have an NST done at the hospital, and the little guy looks great. Of course, I contracted throughout the entire test, so the nurses kept asking me if that was the day...obviously not! He definately has his own schedule.
space opera
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Happy due date Space Opera.
I have been thinking of you. Hang in there. It won't be long now My third pregnancy went almost 2 weeks over-due (11 days over) and I was beyond cranky. I thought I'd murder the next person who said I wouldn't be pregnant forever. So I won't say it to you.
Mama Squirrel: I've been told before that pregnant women who have little ones at home already are just too busy to notice those early light movements. Unlike first time moms (like I was) who have time to sit around wondering if every little pang of indigestion is a fetal movement. Give it a little more time and the unmistakable "get your foot out of my ribs!" movements will come. Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Remember, Mini-opera, the enemies gate is down.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm dizzy, I'm sick, and I'm really, really exhausted.
And I still haven't got the thing the lady from DHS was supposed to send me more than a week ago. So no health coverage yet. I'm going to call her as soon as her lunch hour is over. *grumps*
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
*hug*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, at least Jeff was able to come home on his lunch and deal with the owner so I didn't have to. And I have some Jolly Ranchers, which help me keep from throwing up when I have to do things like change dirty diapers.
But Emma went to her cupboard where we keep her cups and plates and such and got out a half-eaten apple she had apparently squirreled away there yesterday, and I had to debate in my head "How sick can it possibly make her?" before I got up the energy to take it away.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I have an ultrasound tomorrow! Which more than makes up for the fact that I'm having a much harder time finding a comfortable position to sleep in lately.
Also, I'm ready to start showing, I think. I can tell I'm pregnant, and those who know me well can tell, but when I tell acquaintences and even friends who haven't seen me in a while, they look at me as if I'm crazy to say I'm 16 weeks along.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I wish I had that problem! I have barely gained 2 pounds, but have already had to move into my maternity pants. Stupid lack of muscle tone I never regained because of back problems...
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Oh, I'm growing out of all my clothes. But I'm thin, so the bulge that obviously looks like pregnancy bulge to me looks to everyone else like normal belly bulge.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
That's how I was my first pregnancy. This time, it's definite uterus show.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I am now nauseated because I ate chicken and rice soup.
Chicken and rice soup! How much blander can you get? This is ridiculous.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Rice in chicken soup has always made me nauseous. Noodles all the way!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Blech. I hate pasta as a general rule-- there are a few exceptions-- and absolutely despise noodles in any soup whatsoever except for Chinese Hot and Sour soup.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
You are both so very wrong.
Rice in chicken soup: good. Noodles in chicken soup: yum. Kreplach, matza balls, or won ton in soup: heaven in a bowl.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*loves matza balls in chicken soup, at least when done right*
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
We're having a boy!
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Mini Jon Boy! congrats, very likely you'll get a baby boy hat from me, much like the one for space opera, a photo of is in my foobonic album.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Congratulations!
What're you going to name him? Or are you not telling? Or haven't decided yet?
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
We haven't decided yet, and we probably won't decide for sure until he's out.
Oh, and breyerchic, that's so nice of you. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Wow, that's totally opposite of us; we have our next 5 or 6 names picked out already!
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
What names do you have picked out for your little one?
Our top two names at the moment are Liam (sorry Olivet!) and Peter.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
If it's a boy, James Owen. If it's a girl, Bridget for the first name, and we're reconsidering the middle name. At this point, Jeff likes Kyla and I'm pushing for Niamh.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I like the middle name you have chosen for if it's a boy. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
We chose Owen because we like the way it sounds, we like the meaning, and it's a Star Wars name but no one will notice that on first glance! James is for my husband's late father, so that one's not really negotiable; "dead father's name" for the first boy trumps "had it picked out since I was 16." Funny thing, though, a friend of Jeff's who lives in Canada had a baby boy last Spring and named him Owen James! We're still going to use it, though.
I really want Niamh for a middle name with Bridget, but Jeff is afraid he won't be able to spell/pronounce it. But I told him he has months to get used to it, and besides, it's a middle name! How often is he going to have to use it? As long as he gets it right when he blesses her, we'll be fine. And he got used to Ciaran for a boy's name, and now he even likes it. (That's our second boy's name-- Ciaran Michael.)
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I like Owen because it's my last name.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, that's another reason for it to be special, then. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Jeff is stopping at TJ's to get some craving items for me because, um, I kind of haven't eaten today because nothing looked good. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Mmmm, Boursin and Kashi TLC. That hits the spot just right.
Now I can go cook dinner.
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
I know some two year old twins named Elliot and Owen, they're so sweet, the cousin's names are Jackson, Lily, Ben, and Meg.
I love baby names so much! I've had my boy and girl names picked out for a while now, and have no intentions of having a baby for at least 4 years. Elisabeth Kathryn (Ellie) and John Edgar.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Our third (or is it fourth? I'd have to think hard to remember) girl will be Jennifer Katherine (to be called Jenny.)
Yes, I have nicknames picked out, too. Jeff doesn't like Bridey for Bridget, but it's... traditional. And I think it's sweet.
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Brinestone, many congrats on your baby boy! You must be so excited!
Well, I'm now 2 days post-date and feeling pretty uncomfortable. Mostly I've been doing lots of resting and enjoying being babied by Mr. Opera. Miriya, I cannot imagine going 11 days over! I guess it's always a possibility, though.
We've had lots and lots of calls from family wondering where Baby is (as though my EDD was his expiration date...lol) but I'm reminding myself that all of it is evidence of how much we're loved and how excited everyone is to meet our son. I actually feel *more* patient about waiting for bith than I did last week. Now that I'm over the hump of my due date it literally cannot be much longer, so I feel much more peaceful than I'd expected.
space opera
edit: breyerchic, Ellie is my daughter's nickname, which I love...it's so adorable for a little girl. Her given name is Elisa.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Congrats, Ruth! Cool to know.
Hang in there, SO. I'm so glad you are feeling peaceful about it!
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
I love Ellie too, my mom is Ellen, so I found it appropriate but cuter.
SO, did you get my email, I sent it to the email in your profile
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
quote: Our third (or is it fourth? I'd have to think hard to remember) girl will be Jennifer Katherine (to be called Jenny.)
What if you only get boys from this point on?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I don't think that will happen; the more you have, the more likely you are to have a fairly even split. Now, statistically, the most likely out of 4 is a 3/1 split. But after that, things even out. Since we're going for 6 or 7 (or 8), it's very likely we'll have at least a few of each.
But we've got some really good boy names picked out, too. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(BTW, I think I hate dry-heaving until I bring up bile even more than just throwing up.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
If I throw up one more time this morning, I swear I am going to rip out my stomach and throw it out the window. :|
Posted by theCrowsWife (Member # 8302) on :
I think you've been playing the Monkey's Paw game a little too much...
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
That may not be a good commitment to make . . .
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, since it's no longer morning, I guess I'm safe.
But I'm seriously mad at my stomach.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: I don't think that will happen; the more you have, the more likely you are to have a fairly even split. Now, statistically, the most likely out of 4 is a 3/1 split. But after that, things even out. Since we're going for 6 or 7 (or 8), it's very likely we'll have at least a few of each.
So I shouldn't mention my friend, who has 7 girls and one boy? Or my other friend, who has five boys and no girls?
You are assuming 50:50 odds. And that just isn't the case; not in general, and certainly not with any specific couple.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
We certainly have a family pattern of 3/1, so we won't be surprised to fulfill that one.
We also have a friend whose husband's family has for the last couple of generations only had boys. They didn't find out the sex before birth, but were assuming boy. Imagine their surprise when they actually had a girl. They are expecting their second and final child and are again waiting until birth to find out the sex. This pregnancy has been very different so maybe she will have a boy this time.
Our pastor and his wife had 4 boys, then 4 girls, then another boy (I don't know that they are done yet).
Another couple at church finally had a boy after 7 girls.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:You are assuming 50:50 odds. And that just isn't the case; not in general, and certainly not with any specific couple.
Well, in Jeff's family, it's pretty evenly split. And in my family, boys run on my dad's side and girls on my mom's. But even my mom had 3 girls and one boy. So I'm assuming fairly even odds with maybe a slight skew towards girls.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Any news SO?
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
None at all, imogen - but thanks for asking! I'm now 4 days post-date.
My father-in-law called today and said, "Are we just so annoying and obnoxious that you've had the baby but didn't tell us yet?" lol
I have a dr. appointment tomorrow, so I'm pretty interested to see what she'll have to say. My guess is another non-stress test this weekend and maybe a talk about an induction date late next week - which I hope will not happen. As long as Baby is doing okay there's no reason to induce before 42 weeks.
I'm feeling pretty icky physically but really happy and peaceful emotionally. Hope all of the other big belly mommas are feeling good!
space opera
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(((SO))) I hope that baby decides to give you a break and come soon!
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Holy cow! I had a tummy growth spurt about three or four weeks ago, where I suddenly grew out of all my normal-size pants. I then stayed at roughly that size for a few weeks. Suddenly, this week, I seem to have grown a ton overnight. I need to go shopping NOW!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, that drives me crazy when that happens. I of course hadn't even gotten around to really packing away my maternity clothes, but looking at them and the way I seem to be bigger earlier this time around, I'm hoping I'm not going to have to shop for bigger ones this coming Spring...
I love my Liz Lange all-over stretch pants from Target, though, and my much-less dressy but ever-so comfy drawstring sweats from Motherhood Maternity. (I also got all my nursing bras from Motherhood-- although it looks like I'm going to outgrow them at least temporarily, too! ) Those were the two items of maternity clothing that fit me all the way through the last pregnancy and look like they probably will this time, too.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Much patience to you Space Opera. Being over due is no fun but then... my daughter (who was 11 days late) was exactly 7 lbs at birth. She was quite tiny. I suspect the extra weight she gained in those 11 days was helpful to her. When the time is right Baby will know.
I got bigger earlier in my later pregnancies than in the first one but the end stage hugeness wasn't affected. I didn't need bigger clothes in the long run. I LIVE in my thyme overalls right now. Very comfy.
kq: I'd make sure to keep those old nursing bras around. I.. ahem... expand dramatically during pregnancy and immediate post partum. (like 6 cup sizes!) But with every pregnancy, once breastfeeding is established, I return to the same reasonable size. So I've used the same nursing bras each time with one bigger version for the first 1-2 months. You might be able to use your old ones too by then.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
These nursing bras fit me when I was pregnant, and when I was first nursing-- and never stopped fitting me.
I didn't go back down to my original size, and now I'm expanding again! By the end of the pregnancy, I'm going to have to get larger ones, although like you said, I'm holding onto these because I'll probably go back down to this size, I think I'll get rid of the tiny ones that I'm afraid are never going to fit again from before I was married. *sigh*
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
IME kq, while some (temporary) expansion occurs with each pregnancy, it's never as much or as permanent as with the first one.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Good, because I have backaches already. Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
I found that my expansion was most dramatic with the first pregnancy. I also found that I didn't return to my pre-pregnancy size between children 1, 2 and 3. I realize now that this was mostly because I got pregnant each time while still nursing. I don't think that's uncommon. After baby 3 I DID return to my initial a cup size.
I am finding this time around (got pregnant, wasn't nursing, started at A cup) that the expansion is more significant than in pregnancies 2 and 3. I will have to wait and see if I actually reach the huge proportions of my first time. (I hope not but I hung on to my H bra just in case)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
A to H? Wow, ouch!
I just went from a D to a DD/E and gained a few inches.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
Wow! I wouldn't want to get that big, but some expansion would be nice. If I expanded at all, it still wasn't necessary to go up in size. Yet, somehow, I still got stretch marks on them.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Yeah. I started out as a 32A so I was looking forward to a bit of expansion but the H was a little too much. I have a clear recollection of having my first shower at home after coming home from the hospital and looking the mirror. I looked like an exotic dancer.
Such a huge jump in size is uncommon for sure, although I didn't gain any inches in the band (I have weight gain issues - see above). Stretch marks... Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Miriya, were you the one who suggested biggerbras.com?
If not, where did you find bras bigger than C cup for a 32 band?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Motherwear carries bras through size J, and in almost every band size. Maternity/nursing bras, but still...
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Breakout Bras carries those sizes. And I have been very happy -- for several years now -- with both their prices and their customer service.
Not to mention free shipping and the fact that every order after your first gets 10% off.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Those are expensive compared to the ones I can afford. And most of them have underwires. Blech. But I can see they do indeed have a large selection and more-decent prices than some.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Actually, one of the things I like is that they carry large cups sizes in non-underwires.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
There is also a company called Bravado that specializes in nursing/maternity bras for slim women with very large cup sizes. They were the only maker of bras I could find to fit my when my first son was born.
It's quite difficult to find 32 bras in any cup size without special ordering. sigh.
Edit: biggerbras.com has lots of 32 stuff. I'll have to keep that URL for reference. Thanks!
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
I'm terrified what would happen if I ever get pregnant, starting at a 36DD
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:Actually, one of the things I like is that they carry large cups sizes in non-underwires.
The Bravado was the only one they had in my size. *shrug*
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by breyerchic04: I'm terrified what would happen if I ever get pregnant, starting at a 36DD
I feel your pain. No, literally. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Me too, breyerchic.
Am scared that is - starting at a 36DD-E, they don't need to get any bigger.
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Yeah, exactly, no bigger, they're too big.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Pregnancy #1: C to D Pregnancy #2: D to DD Pregnancy #3: DD to G!
No, they never got smaller afterward, either.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, Boon has huge honkers. That's the first thing you notice when you meet her.
*runs*
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
*cries*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*peeks back in and sees Boon crying*
Sweetie! I meant it as a good thing! I was objectifying you like I do Frisco! Please take it as a compliment!
Love you! (((hugs)))
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
*was a-cryin' 'cause my back hurts*
*notices kq objectifying her*
*laughs*
I figured you had an ulterior motive for the harem house!
Sheesh! Does Jeff know about your proclivities? Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
*cries because if I have three kids I'll probably end up some letter that I try to forget exists*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, but he says I can look as long as I don't touch.
And my ulterior motive for the harem house is to never have to vacuum or do dishes again. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
breyerchic, don't worry, they make bras all the way up to "J"...
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
*giggle*
But at least you'd have some spare boulder-holders! Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
*runs because I have no intention of being pregnant in this decade*
but thanks for the advice
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: Yeah, but he says I can look as long as I don't touch.
And my ulterior motive for the harem house is to never have to vacuum or do dishes again.
Well, for that we'll need some more husbands. Oh wait! I forgot, I have my slaves...um..er, I mean kids. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Jeff vaccums very nicely. And he's learning to do dishes very respectably.
Personally, I will be happy to cook and watch the babies/preschoolers. I'm willing to teach, but not every day. And I like to garden, but I'm allergic to grass...
Anyway, I think we have enough sl... husbands coming that we'd be covered. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:*runs because I have no intention of being pregnant in this decade*
You'd better cut back on your Hatrack time, then! It's in the water, you know...
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Yeah, but immaculate conception isn't quite common enough for me to worry, two cases, and I'm outta here.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Adam was pregnant the other day. If it can happen to him... Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
uhoh, one more case, then bye bye breyerchic
Posted by advice for robots (Member # 2544) on :
Just to announce that my wife is pregnant with our third. She's due in May. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Bye bye Breyerchic!
**
That's great, afr. Congratulations to you and your wife.
Oh, and May is a great month to be born. The 13th is the best outcome, naturally.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Pffft. The 21st is a far better part of May to be born.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Wow! Utah babies galore! Beverly in February (right?), me in April, and Mrs. afr in May. Quite the spring season. Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Yup. Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
that isn't a byebye yet, I'm almost positive this wasn't a virgin conception. Three kids that way just doesn't seem likely. Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
I dunno... if you look on page 5 of this thread you'll find a post from TomDavidson about his pregnancy woes.
If that doesn't scare you... Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Question: At about how many months did you start wearing maternity clothes?
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
This has varied for me from pregnancy to pregnancy. This time about 4 months along for pants (waists too tight. Probably started having to wear looser shirts at 5 months.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Same here. I remember hearing some joke that when you are pregnant with your first, you start wearing maternity clothes as soon as you can possibly get away with it. With your second, you put it off as long as you can. With the third, your maternity clothes *are* your regular clothes.
I was looking pregnant before I "gave in" and went maternity for this one. It was around midway (20 wks) that I finally gave in and just made the switch.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Last time: 4 or 5 months. This time: 2. Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Well, I'm at 4 months now. I'm having a terrible time finding regular pants that fit over my stomach right, but I can't find any maternity clothes small enough. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Brinestone, do you have a pair of allover stretch pants? Target sells them, like I said. They fit me after I was pregnant for three or four months, until I finally lost all that weight. So maybe they would work for you?
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Or could you maybe try quite low hipster pants? I have some that fit *very* low and are actually incredibly comfortable.
You could wear them with a long top, so you're not actually flashing the world. Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I don't know what you mean by allover stretch pants, I'm afraid.
The problem with low pants is that I'm simultaneously finding that all my shirts are suddenly too short as they try in vain to make it all the way past my bulging abdomen.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
The all-over stretch pants I have are cut like regular pants (with just a leetle extra in the tummy area-- a tiny smidge) but are made of this incredible fabric that stretches in every direction. So it hangs nicely where you don't need stretch, but stretches just enough to fit all your belly bulge. I can wear them now, just starting to show, and I wore them right up to the day I delivered-- I wore them to the hospital, in fact.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Yeah, I think my plan would necessitate buying new shirts as well.
Or, you could just steal your husband's. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I do that.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Husband shirts are awesome. I live in those at home!
I find that my maternity overalls are more adjustable to varying tummy sizes than regular maternity pants. Actually early on even regular overalls without a cinched waist might do it. I stick to them until my maternity pants don't look baggy. The trick is to find the perfect maternity overalls for your frame (it took me a couple pregnancies of searching).
Of course, if you need a "work look" that might not be okay.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I can't pull off overalls. It's like chunky jewelry-- I just look stupid if I try to wear it.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
I don't pull them off particularly well either. I'm five foot nothing and overalls make me look vaguely like one of the seven dwarves.
During pregnancy though, comfort trumps looking goofy. Besides I look like a bowling pin now no matter what I wear. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I haven't had a pair of overalls I considered "comfortable" since I was about 12. *sigh* They just really don't work with my body.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Yeah, I work in an office five days out of the week, so overalls aren't going to do me much good, I'm afraid.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Brinestone, I checked out the label on my wonderful pants, and they're 93% polyester, 7% spandex. I think (but am not sure) they're these. They are super-comfy in all weather under 100 degrees and over about 45, and dress up or down really easily.
They also don't wrinkle. Ever. And they're machine wash warm, dryer-safe.
(Oooh! The brown ones are on sale! And that's my color brown, too!)
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I did look at those pants and thought they looked nice. If my pre-pregnancy size was anywhere between 0 and 4, will a size 6 of those be too big, though?
Also, kq, do you have AIM?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
In the stores, they come in X-small through XXL. The X-small would probably fit you. (I normally wear a 10-12, and mine are Medium.)
No, I don't have AIM-- only Yahoo.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(Oh, and if the X-Small pants didn't fit you, they have skirts of the same material and same kind of style that are cut a little smaller-- I end up in a Large. An X-Small in those might be smaller.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
A short poem on the joys of morning sickness, in the style of Dr. Seuss (with lots of slant rhymes because it's freakin' 2 in the morning):
Vomit, , Repeat
I would like something to eat. I think it should be something sweet.
Oh, no! that didn't sit quite right; It's too close to the morning's light.
I do not like this throwing up. I do not like it, sure enough.
I wonder would some soda help? Or this hard candy from the shelf?
The candy's got too much of acid And soda's far too bubbly! Blast it!
Perhaps some Tums? The calcium Might stop the need in there to run?
No, these Tums make my hands to smell Like vitamins-- hey, what the frell?
They don't contain a B complex; Still, the smell does my stomach vex.
I do not like this throwing up. I do not like it, sure enough.
I do not like it when it's wet. I do not like it wetter yet.
I do not like it in the sink. I do not like it when I drink.
I do not like this throwing up. I do not like it, sure enough.
I do not like it when it's dry And all I do is heave and cry.
I do not like it by the john, Not even when the food's all gone.
I do not like this throwing up. I do not like it, sure enough.
When will it end? This cursed vomit Just makes me want to yell, "Please stop it!"
It goes away some day, I know. I wish today was it, but no.
Of course, last time I had to learn When nausea's gone, comes the heartburn. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I wish there was some magic Nausea-away spell I could do on you KQ.
Maybe Nixus Naseuam?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, after my stomach was emptied, Tums followed by hard candy did indeed help. I should be able to sleep now.
Good night.
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
AFR, congratulations!!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Poor kq. *hug*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I can't honestly decide whether the morning sickness was worse last time, when it was really severe and all the time and I lost weight, but could just lay on the bed all day if I needed to, or this time, when it's not quite as severe and much less frequent, and leaves me an eating period during the afternoon/evening, but I have an 18-month-old to chase around.
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
Weren't you supposed to start babysitting and tutoring? I was trying to figure out where you could even fit that in.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
It's on and off. The one kid refused to do any work with his mom there (well at all, but I thought he would have done it if she'd left), and his mom wouldn't leave. So they aren't coming any more. I'm going to have some teenage clients soon (much easier to deal with!), just for Algebra (easiest subject for me to tutor! Yay!), but they still don't have their books (it's a long story.)
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
(((kq))) I feel your pain... and I loved the poem. Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Samuel's birth story:
My dr. appointment on Friday had a surprising twist! After no change for 3 weeks, I was at 4, almost 5 cm and almost completely thinnned out. Given my history of rapid deliveries, the dr. told me that she honestly felt more comfortable having me go to the hospital that evening. Mr. Opera and I discussed it, and since she was offering an induction without medication (cervical massage was the plan) and I didn't want to give birth somewhere on the highway we decided that it was the best decision. My dr. had said there was no time table on delivery, so I felt very supported and knew she was keeping my desires for labor in mind.
So...we arrived at the hospital at 6 in the evening. I went to go give a urine sample and found some bloody show. My lower back was also achy. My dr. arrived around 7, and found out that I had dilated to 6 cm already...seemed there wasn't going to be much need for massage! Mr. Opera joked that I just wanted to steal the dr.'s thunder.
Contractions were very intense and (lucky me) completely in my back. By 8:00 I was at 8 cm and unable to find any relief during contractions. Anyone who tells you back labor is hell is correct - I was literally driven to my knees with every contraction. At that point I asked for meds and was given morphine to take the edge off. I told Mr. Opera later that if the morphine "took the edge off" I don't even want to imagine what it would have been like without it, as it didn't seem to help at all! I would have to say that my primary impression of Samuel's birth was that it was very primal - I did lots of vocalization and probably made anyone without an epidural down the hall nervous about what was coming. Thank goodness the whole thing was only about 3 hours!
Pretty soon I was at 10 and beginning to feel the urge to push. The dr. asked if she could break my water, which I agreed to as I knew it would speed things even more (I can't believe it didn't break earlier!). I have to say that my dr. was absolutely wonderful, as were the nurses who assisted during Samuel's birth. I was never pressured to stay in bed or to push before I was ready, and I was constantly told what a great job I was doing. I'd wish that kind of supportive environment for anyone giving birth. Mr. Opera was great as well, reminding me to keep my vocalizations low and reminding me that my body knew what to do.
Pushing seemed to take forever but was in reality (I think) about 20 minutes or so. Samuel got kind of "stuck" as he crowned and the dr. asked permission to use the vacuum extractor, which we agreed to. At that point she could have asked if a monkey could finish the delivery and I probably would have agreed! Anyway, she used it as I pushed a single time and that was enough to help Samuel's head out. His shoulders took some work, and we soon found out why. The dr.'s first comment was, "Wow! You've got a big baby!" (8 lb. 4 oz.) I ended up with a 2nd degree tear (no episiotomy) which I don't think is too bad - my biggest baby before Samuel only weighed 7 lb. 5 oz.!
All in all it was a beautiful experience that I wouldn't have changed a moment of. While the nurse was helping me clean up I thanked her for her help during the birth and she in turn thanked me and told me that it had been exciting to be there as they have very few "natural" births at the hospital. It made me feel pretty proud. Most importantly though, Samuel is healthy and happy and I'm on top of the world.
space opera
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
Yay, SO! What a good story. I'm glad your birth went more smoothly than mine. Welcome to the world, Baby Samuel! You will be well loved.
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
Congrats!!!! Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Back labor is a special kind of miserable. Congrats on no episiotomy - that was the part of giving birth I was most nervous about (of course, you don't get one when you have a C-Section).
quote:At that point she could have asked if a monkey could finish the delivery and I probably would have agreed!
I'm just so happy for you, Space Opera. I remember when they thought he was going to come early! Just goes to show that babies have their own schedules.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Yeeeeehaw! Congrats, SO!
I was just reading about back labor last night. It was enough to give me nightmares. I had a bit of back labor with the most recent, but from the stories I hear it must not have been nearly as bad as it could have been. Do you know if he was presenting posterior? I suppose you can't *really* know, he may have turned.
quote:His shoulders took some work, and we soon found out why. The dr.'s first comment was, "Wow! You've got a big baby!" (8 lb. 4 oz.)
My *smallest* was 8'6". My most recent (the natural birth) was 9'6". I don't anticipate my babies getting much smaller. How I *wish* I could have a small baby! The pushing was so much harder than I thought it would be. And those shoulders... just when I thought the worst was over. She looked like a hulking football player when she came out.
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
With my last baby I had back labor. It's very funny looking back and seeing yourself with every contraction dropping down on all fours and having your husband push your hips together to ease the pain. It's even funnier when you are walking down the hall in the hospital with the nurses watching. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I'm so happy for you, SO.
And I chuckled at the same point as Mrs M.
Maybe it's a marketable prospect... *muses*
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
quote: My *smallest* was 8'6". My most recent (the natural birth) was 9'6". I don't anticipate my babies getting much smaller.
Holey Moley, Beverly!
They are *big* babies!
I was 6'3" - as my Mother's first baby, I think she was rather relieved.
[ October 25, 2005, 05:09 AM: Message edited by: imogen ]
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
My daughter was 8 lbs. 2 oz.
I was the fattest of my siblings, at a puny-in-comparison 7 lbs., 6 oz. (My brother was 3 oz. smaller than me; he probably would have been bigger had he not been 10 days early.)
My husband was 9 lbs., 6 oz., and he wasn't the biggest of his siblings.
My sister-in-law's daughter, though, was 9 lbs., 15 oz.!
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
quote:Holey Moley, Beverly!
They are *big* babies!
Yeah.
And sadly enough, in all my research I've never seen a "Top 10 healthy ways to keep your baby's weight down."
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
They used to recommend smoking or not gaining more than 10 lbs., but I don't think those are approved of any more. Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
Congrats Space Opera.
Back labour is a special kind of HELL. (my firstborn was posterior and in fact emerged face up. *shudder*) I'm glad yours didn't last too long.
quote:At that point she could have asked if a monkey could finish the delivery and I probably would have agreed!
Yup. So true.
Beverly: Are you a tall woman? I have not ever broken the 8 lbs mark with my babies and I can't imagine carrying a bigger baby. I am however way short so I think it's a proportional thing.
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
I know I'm missing a couple people but I'm only including those folks who have posted in this thread. Let me know if there are any updates.
Hmmm... I appear to be next. Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Jenny Gardner, I remember seeing Olivet post it recently.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Well, I like the idea of thinking of myself as a tall woman, but really I'm just about average. Just shy of 5'7".
I wonder, though, does height effect how comfortably a person can carry a large baby?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, if you're 5'0", you certainly don't want to be delivering a 10 lb. baby!
I've known women who had to have c-sections becasue they are small and their husbands are not, and as a result their babies are not, and they can't deliver a baby that big.
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
Both of my kids were just over 6 lb. I'm 5'5"ish.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm 5'5", too. But very "big boned"-- I have a large frame.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I'm 5'3" and was anywhere from 100 to 107 pounds pre-pregnancy. I think a ten-pound baby would kill me! Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Heck, a 10 lb. baby would kill most people! My mother-in-law and sister-in-law are both taller than me (5'7" and 5'8 1/2", respectively) and both have big frames to boot.
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
I would say I am "big boned" too. If I remember right I only gained 20 lb. with my pregnancies.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I gained exactly 24 lbs. last time.
I was 137 when I got married (and not overweight by any means.)
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
I think I was 138 when I got married. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
<---insanely jealous of KQ's birthing options
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
The only thing is that there's no NICU. So if any problems are suspected when I get closer, I'll be switching hospitals (and possibly doctors) to deliver at Glendale Adventist, the nearest high-level NICU. But since it's a second child, I have a healthy living child, and I've had no pregnancy problems so far, I'm not considered high-risk to need to deliver with a NICU. (And they have a helicopter for life flights and the other NICU is only a 5-minute helicopter ride away, so if everything appears normal I'm comfortable with that. )
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Actually, when I looked at it, it isn't quite as much a "birth center" as I was thinking. It just seems like a really homey hospital--which my hospital already is.
I really do like my hospital, but it is too restrictive in it's policy. I *must* give birth *on* the bed. I can*NOT* have a water birth. Ya know, stuff like that. Not enough options for my liking and comfort.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Ours is too small to have waterbirths-- they can't afford the insurance-- but I've talked to women who've delivered there, and you CAN move around in labor and don't have to labor in the bed (as long as everything is going okay.) I talked to one woman who said she brought in a birthing stool, with her doctor's okay, and they let her use it. They're open to alternative and/or wireless monitoring if you don't want to stay in the bed, and the best part is the LDR rooms instead of regular L&D rooms. They're flexible on nursery care, and will do as much as possible of the testing in-room if you prefer. (I don't. Give me an hour or two to rest, that's great!) They have limits on the number of people allowed in the room during labor, but make exceptions for doulas. With a doctor's approval, you can eat and drink during labor.
So it's a little more "progressive" than most homey hospitals, while still being, you're right, not quite a full blown "birthing center"-- they just don't have the room or the money. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(But it's just about right for me-- I want an epidural anyway and have no problem laboring in bed as long as I'm allowed to be on my side.)
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
quote:(But it's just about right for me-- I want an epidural anyway and have no problem laboring in bed as long as I'm allowed to be on my side.)
Yup.
Our hospital is pretty good about letting you be up and about, even has private jetted tubs. But you *must* stop whatever you were doing and get ON THE BED to push that baby on out. That means no partner-supported squat for birthing position. There is a birthing bar, true, but that means squatting up on the bed. It's such a small thing, I know, but little things like this make a difference to me.
So, I really like our hospital. But I anxiously await the day that a truly flexible birthing center will be established here. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
That's weird about being on the bed. I mean, I understand from their insurance point of view. But it still strikes me as weird.
I really liked the stirrups, actually, because with an effective epidural I can't actually feel my legs... No squatting for me!
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
I love to tell people of my first birth where the epidural was so "effective" that when someone told my that my leg fell off the table, I had to ask which one. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Okay, that is a bit scary.
I could feel my legs as "present", but couldn't really stand up for a few hours after the birth until it wore off some.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Ouch. I was playing a "bouncing" game ("This is the way the ladies ride...") with Ems, and now I'm having back cramps. I guess I'll back off on that...
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Re: having to push on the bed. I forgot to add that part to Samuel's birth story. The dr. and I had talked at length about having an option as to how I delivered, such as squatting, etc. So, when I told her I needed to push (I was sitting on the end of the bed after having gotten up off the floor just beforehand) she asked me what position I wanted to do it in. My answer? "I don't care." She goes, "Well, I think you should at least lie back a little." Mr. Opera and I had a good laugh over that one later.
Afr, congrats!! I hope you and your wife have a happy and healthy pregnancy!
And bev...yeah, you grow big babies! I still can't believe Samuel is as big as he is. A nurse at my GP's office a few weeks ago asked if I normally had 5 pounders since I was so small. I don't think anyone, even my dr., expected Samuel to be so big...her guess before he was put on the scale was 7 lb. 7 oz. Oh, and as far as I know he was not posterior. I had asked the dr. the week before, and she said she assumed that since she could feel his butt that he was turned the regular way. Either way, if we ever have another I will most fervently hope for NO back labor!
space opera
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
quote:Oh, and as far as I know he was not posterior.
There is still *so* much we don't know about pregnancy/labor/medical-stuff-in-general. We may never know why that severe back labor happened with you.
quote: And bev...yeah, you grow big babies!
I've really been feeling this lately. A gal down the street recently gave birth to a babe of 6 pounds and such.
When my previous child was born, she was given a cute pink premie onsie. Said, "up to 6 pounds". I think it is still tucked away somewhere unused.
I just feel all of the sudden like a freak, that everyone around me is giving birth to babies below 7 pounds. I guess the title of this thread is suddenly feeling appropriate in a very different way. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
beverly, at least you know what to expect. I expected an 8-pounder or bigger with my first (my mom's were all 8-and-up), and got a not-quite-6. My son was 7 pounds, and the prediction (based on ultrasound) for my youngest was also about 7.
She was 8.5 pounds. >_< No wonder she took so much longer to show up!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Stupid pain. Back pain, neck pain, headache, and now I'm getting the same sharp crampy pains in my uterus I got with Emma. (But this time no bleeding and not quite as bad or nearly as frequent.)
I hate pain. Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
bev, I'm pretty darn petite and I gave birth to a 9 1/2 lb. baby! You're definitely no freak. *hug*
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
To say Christy is pretty darn petite is a slight understatement!
I remember seeing a photo of you pregnant Christy, and then reading afterwards that the baby was almost 10% of your body weight..
Guess it goes to show what the human body is capable of. Although, when I do become pregnant, I'll still be happy with a 6 pounder. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Good thing the stork takes orders. Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Thanks, Christy. *sniff* I had not remembered that your little girl came so big! Was the birth pretty difficult?
<--- doesn't remember
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Holy cow, Christy! I sure hope my little guy isn't that big.
Though the fact that I'm 18 weeks along and still not obviously showing seems to indicate that he'll be smallish. I figured that since I'm so small, I'd start showing sooner than normal. Now when I tell people I'm pregnant, and they ask how far along I am, they look at me shocked when I tell them I'm well into my second trimester.
I've had people tell me I don't look pregnant. I had one woman tell me, "Honey, your stomach muscles aren't going to be as strong in your next pregnancy." Those who know me well can see it immediately because they know what I looked like before, but everyone else still things I look like an average, possibly skinny, young woman.
<--- ready to start showing
Posted by seespot (Member # 7388) on :
Finally, some pictures of the spotlet. These are actually 4-6 weeks old, but still adorable.
Very, very cute! Thanks for sharing the photos!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Brinestone, that doesn't necessarily mean the baby will be small. I know a woman who didn't show until about the 7th month her first pregnancy-- and had a 8 1/2 lb. baby. And a c-section (she was tiny and not progressing.)
Now she's pregnant with her second, and you know what? She's showing much earlier.
(to seespot) Awww! Wook at dat adowable baby!!!
Posted by Narnia (Member # 1071) on :
Hi guys. Not pregnant, but I like to poke in here and see what you ladies are talking about. I just thought I'd make you all cringe with the weights of my mother's seven children.
D - 8 lbs 11 oz A - 9 lbs 8 oz C - 11 lbs 12 oz (I am not kidding!) L - 7 lbs 10 oz G - 9 lbs 8 oz E - 10 lbs 10 oz S - 9 lbs 8 oz (he was 3 weeks early!!!!!)
My mother is a normal sized lady (about 5'6") and she thought that humongous babies (and always delivering late) were her lot in life. Now that she's done some research, she thinks her babies were huge and late because she was hypothyroid and didn't know it. All but the last baby were delivered naturally WITHOUT AN EPIDURAL.
There. That should make you squirm. Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
*squirms*
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Maybe, Narnia. Maybe not. My mom is 5'9", and had kids ranging from 8 lb. 3 oz. (me) to about 9 and a half (my sister). No hypothyroid or any other issues. No drugs of any kind.
She does have wide hips (which I do appreciate having inherited when in labor, if not other times ).
seespot, that is a cute spotlet. Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Ruth, I think it is because you are so slender. Because I am :ahem: not, I tend to look bigger than I ought to. You see, my big behind and already-present tummy flab doesn't help with the overall effect.
It seems to me that the women who hardly show at all were extremely slender to begin with. Their babies are all normal sized. No need to worry.
And while *you* might notice a difference in how much you show in future pregnancies, as long as your body frame remains similar, other people will still think you look small.
Of course, there are other things that effect how big we look than our pre-pregnancy shape. I don't mean to say that if a woman looks "big" that means she was overweight to begin with. Only that in my exprience the ones that look particularly small are very thin to begin with.
And we are back at our original topic!
Seespot: Love the hand-in-mouth and the snoozing with Daddy is just precious!
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
One more week and we will know what this baby is (assuming s/he assumes the position to show us the goods). S/he is really kicking today and much higher than I expected to feel it at this time.
My first was 7 lbs 4 oz (one day early w/ epidural). #2 was 7 lbs 15 oz (5 days late w/o drugs). I expect if I went to my due date this time that it would be over 8 lbs if a boy. Since we plan to be induced early this time (because my labor was so fast last time and I don't want to have the baby at home or in the car) we might still be under 8 lbs.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I have reached the point in my pregnancy where I am hungry all the time, but my nausea and such are not yet diminished. *sigh*
I have also reached the point where my, ahem, marital intimacy needs increase drastically (just as I begin to be bulgy enough for awkwardness.) *giggles*
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
Bev, the birth wasn't particularly hard, although I did beg for iv medication at the end and they had to scissor my legs over my head on the final push to get Sophie out. *grin* She crowned for at least twenty minutes and her heart rate was dropping since I was pushing so frequently.
I was induced with a cervix softener (but luckily no pitocin) because she was a week late and my due date had already been extended (I'm pretty sure wrongfully) after the first ultrasound showed her a bit small.
People think the picture Tom took of me at 6 months pregnant looks less pregnant than the picture at 3 months pregnant. I really didn't start showing until 7 months and ballooned the last few weeks. That said, I had really good mobility even the week before I gave birth which kept me feeling good.
My stomach deflated like a balloon and was a saggy bag for almost a whole year. I was grimaced at because I was five pounds above pre-pregnancy weight after birth, but I was really creeped out by my distended stomach. My belly button is once again starting to become the innie that it used to be *giggle* I think from all Sophie's loving pokes. She is fascinated with belly buttons.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*giggles* Does she pull up her shirt and proudly poke at hers while grinning? And sometimes saying "Beddy buddon!" In public?
That's what the Princess does. What's funnier is when she then starts looking for Abba's and trying to pull up his shirt. Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Princess Peach was fascinated with belly buttons. She went through a time where her most common pose was one hand holding up a bottle and the other hand's finger stuck in her belly button.
Christy, when you say that they scissored your legs over your head, do you mean that your legs went behind your head? I am not *quite* flexible to do that regularly, and certainly not with a pregnant belly.
Going past your due date is probably a lot of why she was so big. I hate to think what would happen if I ever did go past my due date. Hasn't happened yet.
:knocks on wood:
Hang in there, KQ. Are you in your second trimester now?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*sigh*
Either I am or I'm not (13 or 17 weeks, depending.) I have an appointment on the 21st, hopefully I'll find out then.
I'm thinking I'm at 13 weeks, not 17, because last night I felt the first "flutters", and 13 or 14 weeks was when I first felt them with Ems, too. Not discernable kicks or anything, just flutters that are enough to feel and know the baby is there. I probably won't feel them again for a few days, that's how it was with Ems.
Of course, I've also heard that it's unusual to feel the first movements that early. When we saw Emma on the first sonogram, she was doing continuous flips. She never stopped moving. I'm afraid this bodes another hyperactive baby for me... Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
You too? I was feeling that with this one around then and thought I was crazy because it was "too early".
quote:She never stopped moving. I'm afraid this bodes another hyperactive baby for me... [Angst]
Uh oh.
Hopefully you will enjoy some "non-nauseated time" before "huge and uncomfortable" time.
What I hate is when you want to consume everything you see, but it doesn't fit in your tiny, scrunched up stomach.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, that's horrible! And what does fit, gives you heartburn! I hate that, too.
Last time the nausea slowed down around 5 1/2 months, by which time I was beginning to get into "huge and uncomfortable". And then at 7 months, the severe heartburn started. I'm hoping that since it's not as bad this time, it might end earlier. Or, you know, when I go in, I could just ask for drugs. Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
quote:And what does fit, gives you heartburn! [Mad] I hate that, too.
Yup, experienced a bit of that today.
And hopefully your heartburn won't be so bad. Mine was pretty bad with my first, but not so bad after that.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
But this time, I've had it from the start. Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
From what I've observed at clinic, non-pregnant people who vomit daily almost always have heartburn. I would assume pregnancy emesis would do the same thing. Treat the emesis, treats the heartburn. At least for awhile.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, at least it means I get enough calcium, since I have problems with milk but take Tums for my heartburn (I also take them as a supplement every day, but it's still probably not enough.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:I would assume pregnancy emesis would do the same thing. Treat the emesis, treats the heartburn. At least for awhile.
Not so at all last time-- when I had nausea and vomiting, no heartburn, and when I had heartburn, very little nausea and no vomiting. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Yes, but you're just plain weird.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, we knew that already. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(When I'm not pregnant, I very rarely get the two together, either.)
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
Well, by the time the pregnancy is pretty far along, the heartburn is caused by the stomach being squished upwards. That's why I said stopping the vomiting only treats heartburn for awhile.
And kq, last time you had antinausea meds which helped. It seems natural that you have more heartburn without antinausea meds this time around.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
But my heartburn happened first this time-- and even before the meds (it was a good three months) last time, I didn't have heartburn. Even when I was throwing up so much that I ended up in the ER having my stomach flushed because I was throwing up blood and they had to make sure it was just a broken blood vessel in my esophagus. (Which is when I first got the lovely meds, coincidentally. Or not.)
Like Rivka said, I'm weird. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Ewwww.
KQ, your pregnancies sound... vomit-y.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah. This one less so than the last, thankfully. Wanna hear about the severe cramping and occasional bleeding? Very scary.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
No thanks!
(Ewww! Ouch! Eeek! )
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
*blush* Usually she proudly pulls up MY shirt. Luckily, she's happy with just a peek and then we usually find/tickle hers.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
We worked on the "other people's bodies" thing early with Ems. (She still doesn't quite get that it applies to Abba all the time. But other than that, she does pretty well, now that we don't nurse in public so she doesn't pull up my shirt or stick her hand down it all the time. )
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I hate when my vision does that. Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
When I was pregnant with my second, my first child would tell everyone that I had a baby in my tummy and she would try to lift my shirt up to show them. Like they couldn't see my belly sticking out.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
Well, it's another boy. Of course we are completely shocked by this. Oh well, maybe next time. Until then Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Awww.
You know, until they're about three months old, you can dress them in pretty much anything and most people won't know the difference. Want to borrow some dresses? Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Fourth time's the charm, Mama S.
I've been meaning to tell you that I didn't feel Aerin for a while, so I rented a fetal monitor. They're not that expensive - mine was $22/month. http://www.storkradio.com/ Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
That's pretty cool!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*sigh* I wish I could sleep. Either I sleep early and well or my insomnia gets worse with pregnancy, apparently. Last night it was the latter-- well, maybe a little of both. I fell asleep on the couch after Ems went to bed, but woke up at 12:30 with a sore back and haven't slept again since. *yawn* *sigh*
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I checked out a copy of What to Expect When You're Expecting from the library today. I feel so . . . traditional.
Funny it doesn't talk about blood types at all. With mine being A-, I will have to have a shot and some monitoring during the birth, I think. I wanted more information.
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
You'll need one or two shots, maybe blood tests. That's all that I am aware of you or the baby needing, unless the shots don't work. The chance of the shot not working, and you becoming sensitized to Rh + cells, is only 0.1% or less.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
You may have an older version-- the one I have (two copies of-- I was given three, passed one on!) does mention it.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Yeah, I actually found it later while browsing, but it was discussed under a heading called Ph somethingorother, which I wouldn't have looked in had I not already known what I was looking for.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Want a copy you can keep? I have one here I can send you.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Brinestone, is your husband Rh-positive? Andrew is and I'm B-, so I got 2 shots of Rhogam during my pregnancy (b/c of the bleeding) and one shot afterwards. They have to inject it into a muscle, so it does ache a bit. Here's some info about Rhogam: http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/uspdi/202720.html Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Yeah, I think Jon Boy's A+. (No, it's not a cheesy joke.)
Thanks for the link!
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
My pleasure. Andrew and Aerin are both A+, too.
Actually, I passed on antibodies to Aerin from all the Rhogam I got while I was carrying her. It made it a bit harder to find her a donor for her transfusions. Thank G-d for all the wonderful people who donate blood and for Aerin's dedicated donor (all her blood came from the same person).
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
So*, I weighed myself tonight after my bath. More than 3 months along, very much showing, and my net weight gain is... 0 lbs. since the beginning of the pregnancy. *sigh* At least I'm not losing this time around.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
With child #3, I lost weight for the first 20 weeks (even though my nausea waned at about 14 weeks). But she grew just fine, and ended up 1.5 pounds bigger than her brother!
Weight gain is not always the most reliable indicator of how a pregnancy is going. Especially in the first trimester or so . . .
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, I know.
Last time I lost 10 lbs. in the first trimester. I just thought I was doing better than this this time-- I should have gained at least 3 lbs. by now.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I've gained at least 13 (I'm at 20 weeks now). I guess that makes me feel better about not really showing yet.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Hey, guess what?
I entered my second trimester and the morning sickness disappeared!
I still get a bit queasy if I don't eat, and for some reason spicy food is not sitting well with me right now (last time I had massive spicy food cravings; I still want it, but my stomach can't seem to take it right now), but I haven't thrown up in a week. And I don't wake up sick. And I even accidentally bit into a hot dog this morning (Emma handed it to me, I thought it was a prune, it was a piece of old hot dog! That's what I get for not looking), and I didn't throw up. I just spit it out and ate some radish as a palate cleanser (first thing that came to hand) and it was fine. I am so happy. I knew it wasn't as bad this time around, but I hardly dared hope it would actually go away after the first trimester! Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, my husband gave her her prunes, I thought that he would have used a clean bowl! Not one with a scrap of hot dog left! Plus, I was tired. Upon reflection, she wouldn't have shared her prunes with me, she likes them too much.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I've been feeling the baby for a few weeks now, and every day I feel him more distinctly and more often.
I find I have to suppress a laugh every time I feel him. It's such an odd sensation to feel another being moving around inside you, and I can't help wondering what he's doing. Is that his little hand? Is he head-butting my ribs? Or is that his foot?
The nice thing is that when he kicks hard, Jonathon can feel him too. For now, the novelty is so fun I can hardly stand it, but I can imagine that four more months of this could get old.
In other news, I'm officially "showing." This means people are touching my belly now, which I don't like, but that I'm also getting "When are you due?" questions from people I'm pretty sure I haven't told. *grins*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm back from my appointment! My due date is April 29. Very probably this is a little girl. Everything is healthy. We have ultrasound pictures. I got blood drawn for the AFP and got my flu shot authorized.
I love this doctor. I like the office, I like the nurses, but I love the doctor. Besides being a board certified OB/GYN, he's got a doctorate in philosophy! He's very nice, and believes in epidurals when the patient asks for them (unlike my last doctor. :| ) I trusted him and had a rapport with him immediately and he was just very cool. And he did the ultrasound himself instead of leaving it to a tech. And he's chief of staff as well, which means he's not gone very often. I talked to him about my phobia of female doctors and he said that shouldn't be a problem. His partners are female but he's almost always around, lives close by, and if I'm really really nervous is even willing to induce me within a week of my due date (seeing that my last child was 8 lbs. 2 oz. and delivered successfully via induction and assuming everything else goes normally) to ensure he's around for it. But we both agreed that almost certainly won't be necessary.
I really, really like him.
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
HAH! Beat you. My sister in law is due April 28, first pregnancy. Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
yay
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I should also mention that KPC was enormously thrilled that they don't charge for parking at this hospital! And the waiting room even had childrens' books, which was good as he had forgotten to pack any. (This is in stark contrast to the doctor I absolutely couldn't stand, whose waiting room had a sign that read "Effective 9/21/03, ABSOLUTELY NO CHILDREN OVER THE AGE OF 3 MONTHS are allowed in the waiting room or offices. Please make other arrangements. Thank you." I couldn't stand him and switched doctors for other reasons, but that sign always did bug me.)
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
And this was a Ob/Gyn's office?!
I'm glad your new doctor is nicer.
So a little sister for Emma, huh? Guess it'll make second-hand clothes easier.. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I also think it's kinda funny the sign made you so riled up you can still remember the date the ruling became effective. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
It took me a second, I typed the date on the notice about Medicaid cards first and had to switch it. They never got new magazines in that office (or if they did they disappeared fast) and I often forgot my book, so there wasn't much to look at. (It was a really depressing, chilly, closed-in waiting room in general.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:So a little sister for Emma, huh? Guess it'll make second-hand clothes easier..
That's what I said... KPC was kind of hoping for a boy. Oh, guess what? My mom dreamed the gender of this baby correctly, too! (Last time I was trying and trying to call her but she'd changed her number that weekend and forgot to tell me. She had a dream that night that Jeff told her I was pregnant and the baby was a girl, and when I got a hold of her at work Monday we were both a bit rattled by it.) Anyway, now I must convince my darling husband that Niamh is an excellent middle name to go between Bridget and Hamilton. Perhaps I will start a thread about it if he doesn't relent soon.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
My mother dreamt of frozen chickens throughout her pregnancies with me and my sister.
No frozen chicken dreams when she was pregnant with my brother though.
Weird.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
LOL! That has got to be one of the weirdest gender prediction methods I've ever heard of.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, I was on the phone hearing about my mom's dream-- which she wasn't going to tell unless we asked about if she had a guess-- and KPC's response to her was, "Next time dream about a boy, okay?" (To which her response was, "What next time?!?" "You know, maybe in four years or so." "We hope..." said my mother.)
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Have you told her how many kids you want to ultimately have?
I'm kinda scared about when Tony and I do decide to start, because I know my mother will think I'm too young.
I suspect she'd still think I was too young if I was 60.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
She knows. But she also knows that we would prefer 3 years spacing to 2. Which is apparently what we're getting. And that this pregnancy was not in the plans right now. (As it turns out, my brother wasn't planned, either. But she never brought that up until I had an unplanned pregnancy and needed comfort.)
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I see. I read that comment as "You're having *more*?" - which it obviously wasn't. It would be something my Mother might say though. I'm projecting.
Hopefully things will slow down now for a while. And then your two older girls can get a little brother to fawn over and play dress ups with. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, yes. I remember fondly dressing my brother up in all kinds of skirted costumes.
I remember better because my mom took pictures.
And yes, she meant that she hopes next time our BC will work better, so it can be completely happy when I'm pregnant again, and not me calling her crying and freaking out. And she seems to think we're good parents or something. And she enjoys spoiling grandchildren, apparently.
Also, she had four of her own, and that was even with an eight-year gap between her two husbands, so she's not really against large families per se. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I have photos of my little brother looking *beautiful* in a tutu.
We called him "Josephine" (his real name is Joseph) - he made a very pretty girl actually. Ridiculously long eyelashes.
I have a feeling the photos might make an appearance at his 21st. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I should add - I think I'm portraying my Mum in a bad light here. It's not that she's against families, or babies. Hey, she had my sister at 42, after previoulsy deciding two was enough, because she wanted another baby!
I think the issue is she's against *her baby* (ie, me) having babies. At least any time in the next century. I'm sure she'll get over it as soon as I do actually start though. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, that's what happened with my dad. I think.
At least, I hope he's over it.
He always takes a while to get used to changes and new developments, so it's hard to tell.
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
I think it's so cool that you and my SIL are due the same time. I wish she'd hurry up and get her ultrasound done. Mid December, I think. I'm hoping for a girl, although I'm trying to suppress that hope.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, they did mine to determine fetal age, but he got a clear shot and we're far enough along that he went ahead and asked if we wanted to know. (I actually didn't, but we had discussed ahead of time that we're compromising, and knowing this time but I reserve the right to not know next time.)
I too think it's cool that we're due at the same time. It's like having a pregnancy buddy!
And it's okay to hope for one or the other. Jeff was hoping for a boy, but since he's not going to love it any less as a girl, he's not disappointed, so it's okay. I know you won't love it any less as a boy, and you know, the excitement switches right away from, "Gee, I hope it's a boy this time!" to "It's a girl! Wow, we already have a name picked out!" pretty much instantaneously when you're wrong, so go ahead and hope, it's all part of the excitement. Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Is it common for mommies and daddies to be to have a strong feeling about the gender of the baby before it's born?
I only ask because both Jon Boy and I felt pretty strongly that we were having a boy before the ultrasound confirmed it.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I think it might be. But I think that half the time mommies and daddies are wrong-- we really thought Emma was a boy, although I thought this one was a girl.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I started feeling kicking a little last night-- enough that Jeff could feel it very faintly.
Well, just now, this child kicked me hard! Three times in a row!
I think I'm being sent a message.
"Mom, I'm HUNGRY!!!" Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
quote:I think the issue is she's against *her baby* (ie, me) having babies. At least any time in the next century. I'm sure she'll get over it as soon as I do actually start though.
imogen, my mom was the same way and she ADORES being a grandma now. She not only thought I was too young, but she was too young to be a grandma. Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
quote:Originally posted by Brinestone: Is it common for mommies and daddies to be to have a strong feeling about the gender of the baby before it's born?
I only ask because both Jon Boy and I felt pretty strongly that we were having a boy before the ultrasound confirmed it.
I knew for sure that Tyler was a girl before the ultrasound clearly showed he was a boy. It took me a week to get used to the idea! I ended up being so happy it was a boy.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
kq, I have noticed that our baby tends to be much more active when I'm hungry. I wondered if it was just coincidence or if he was trying to send me a message. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I think it's a kind of restlessness/mild distress. "Why do I not have as much sugar coming to me? I don't care how you feel, my blood sugar is low! FEED ME!"
You know, akin to when Emma grabs my hand and resolutely leads me to the refrigerator and points and says, "Door." And if I don't open it, she repeats the process and says, "Door DOOR! Do door!" Or like a 5-year-old in the car. "I'm hungry, Mommy." "We'll be home soon." A minute later: "I'm HUNGRY, Mommy!" "You need to wait, we'll be home soon." "I'm hungry NOW!!!"
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Congratulations, kq! Another sweet baby girl to love. Is Emma happy about having a baby sister?
My mother and mother-in-law are already campaigning for a little sister for Aerin (adopted).
Andrew had a feeling that Aerin was a girl, but I knew that she was a boy. Whoops. I was shocked when the ultrasound tech said she was a girl. I walked around in a daze for the rest of the day. Thank goodness she was a girl - girl preemies do better than boys (black girls actually do the best).
Brinestone, how exciting about your little guy!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:Is Emma happy about having a baby sister?
Well. I don't think she fully understands yet; we've read books and she says yes if you ask her if there's a baby in Mommy's tummy, but I don't really know that she gets that some time not too far away that baby is going to come out of Mommy's tummy and eventually share a room with her. And she agrees that "our" baby is going to be pretty like Aerin, but is reserving her opinion on whether she's going to love it. And then there's the whole boy/girl issue; I'm not sure how much she understands of that. Or the "sister" concept, for that matter.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(Oh, and tonight KPC finally gave in on the middle name I want! Yay! Apparently "it grew on him." )
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*sigh* I was so hoping for a more mellow, calmer child this time.
I'm being kicked constantly. In fact, I have been for a few days now. The child seems to be turning flips. Emma did the same thing, and she is one of the most hyper children our family has yet seen. *sigh* I was just really hoping the next one wouldn't be quite so hyper...
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Holy cow! I'm getting huge really, really fast.
Tuesday night I tried on a pair of jeans, wondering if they still fit me. I wanted to bring them on our trip to Denver for Thanksgiving. They were a little snug, but I could definitely still get them on.
Friday morning, I'm getting dressed. I pull out the jeans, and I can't get them within an inch of buttoning up. In three days, I have completely grown out of a pair of pants! And I don't think it's just because of Thanksgiving dinner. Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
quote:Thank goodness she was a girl - girl preemies do better than boys (black girls actually do the best).
That's fascinating. Do they know why?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*wants to know too*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, and Brinestone, I remember that. I went through periods where I would outgrow 5 outfits in a day or two. Then nothing. Then 10 more next week!
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
The worst stage for me was the in between maternity clothes and normal clothes. I hated that.
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
Oh, me too! And it got earlier and earlier with each pregnancy ... by the last one I was starting to show before I knew I was pregnant!
I also hated the time at the END when I was growing out of my maternity clothes.... Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
OK, seriously, I need to see Pregnant Ruth. You are probably the cutest pregnant lady ever! I think we should have a get together at the beginning of next semester!
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
My other least favorite time is after the baby is born and nothing fits. I'm to small for the maternity clothes and to big for my normal clothes.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
That's when I LOOOOVE my stretchy pants from Target.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I can't sleep. Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
HIPS!
Early in my second trimester, I started getting aches in my pelvis for days. I asked my doctor about it, but I don't remember what she said.
Lately I've realized that I'm waddling more because my legs are farther apart than they've ever been before. I've also gotten some stretch marks on my hips.
I've always been slender, and my hips were so narrow that I hardly looked female. Now there's no mistaking me. I'm glad my body has been sending messages to widen my hips, though, because I'm not sure how a baby would have made it out of me the way I was before.
Still, the most painful part of this pregnancy so far has been the lower back pain I've had as a result of the rapid expansion of my hips.
Do all women's hips expand in pregnancy, or did I just get lucky because I was so little beforehand?
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
Mine did ... horribly. The only place I got stretch marks was on my hips. And the most pain was from my lower back getting out of bed in the morning. Turning over in bed almost made me cry out every time, as I could feel the two halves of my pelvic bones rub against each other. (Hard to describe.)
The only thing that helped was when we got a new mattress. Suddenly I could sleep again, and walk in the mornings. I had no idea it was exacerbated by my lousy mattress. Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Loosening ligaments! I have been suffering from that lately. Of course, it was expected. You have to take some care as you move about not to injure yourself. Pinched nerves and strained ligaments are no fun.
I've always had hips, so I dunno about that. But I have been told again and again that hip width has *nothing* to do with space for the baby to come out. That is the bony ring in the pelvis and can accompany hips of any size. Though someone else may know more about this than me. The loosening ligaments help that bony ring to be more accommodating whatever your situation. I don't think that would cause your actual hip joints to widen, though.
I understand that pregnancy can widen one's ribcage though. It seems to have done that for me.
What is happening is probably this: You're gaining nutrition stores for your baby. Yeah, fat. Females have certain places they are programmed to store fat in, and those places vary from person to person.
:fights urge to complain about areas her own body is programmed to store fat:
It is a necessary thing, it is a *good* thing. Especially for someone so thin. You will still have those hips after he is born, and I have no idea whether that is something you are happy to hear or not. You can always lose the weight, and for you, I imagine it wouldn't be very hard.
Stretch marks happen. They lighten considerably with time, but they do't go away entirely, whatever the cosmetic salespeople say.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Oh, I have no doubt that I have been building up fat stores, but I'm not sure they're in my hips. They still feel really bony. I tend to store fat in my thighs.
And if pregnancy widened my ribcage, it would make buying bras a lot easier on me.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
I can't describe how happy I am right now. With my first two pregnancies I had diet controlled gestational diabetes (Atkins w/ 1st and diabetic diet w/ 2nd). This time I don't even have to take the 3-hour glucose test. I passed the 1-hour test! Woohoo!!! I think going to the gym has definitely helped my metabolism. I am so excited not to have to be on the diabetic diet for Christmas. That was going to be the pits.
Now we start the every two week visits. Twelve more weeks to go.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Congrats, Mama! Though I've never been diagnosed with GD, having failed the 1 hour test the first two pregnancies, I tend to hold my breath. I was given a clean bill of health this time 'round too.
Ruth, movin' on up in the world! Hopefully bra-shopping will be quite a bit easier on you after this.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:Loosening ligaments! I have been suffering from that lately. Of course, it was expected. You have to take some care as you move about not to injure yourself. Pinched nerves and strained ligaments are no fun.
Oh, yeah. I thought it was bad the first time around-- my joints are prone to "popping out of joint" to begin with, and when they began to loosen up, I had about 5 twisted ankles in a row. This time, though, I can't move without making a popping sound in something. My hips, my back, my knees, my ankles, my elbows... it started well before the second trimester this time, too. I'm not looking forward to the shooting pains down my legs from pinched nerves. >_<
But yay for no GD!!!
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
If my left knee has been aching since dinner last night, might I be suffering from a pinched nerve? Or loosening ligaments?
It gets worse when I stand or walk on it, but I think that may be because I'm vertical more than because I'm putting weight on it. It hurts when I bend it more than 90 degrees.
My right knee did this a few weeks ago, and it finally went away.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, that happens. Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Yeah, I figured it was a pregnancy thing because I didn't do a thing to it to make it mad at me. But I wasn't sure if it was a normal pregnancy thing or a you-should-probably-call-your-doctor pregnancy thing, and I couldn't find anything about it online.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
It's normal, at least for some of us. *sigh* Count yourself lucky it's not all your joints, on and off. *raises hand*
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Hope all of our mamas-in-waiting are doing okay. Things are *finally* settling down at our house more and we're getting to see more of Space Space Baby's personality and sweet little toothless grins.
If you haven't got one, or have never tried one, I highly suggest a baby sling. I've got a ring sling and a pouch and am getting ready to order another type. SSB LOVES being worn through the grocery and around the house.
space opera
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
My last midwife appointment, I complained of ringing in my ears. The nurse said, "Oh yeah, I had that a lot my last pregnancy. Just another pregnancy thing." I expressed surprise, having never heard of that. Her response was priceless: "Anything and everything can be a symptom of pregnancy."
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
That is very true. With my fisrt pregnancy, I got the hiccups at least once a day for most of my pregnancy. I told my doctor and she laughed and said it can happen.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Nature sure has a sense of humor sometimes, doesn't it?
All our lives, our bodies scream at us to reproduce, and when we finally acquiesce, they turn on us with a vengeance.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I think my body is getting back at me for depriving it of the chance to act out with PMS for more than a year at a time.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
3/4 of the way there. I am 30 weeks today. I had an appt yesterday. As usual the whole family was there for my appt. After I lay down on the table and uncovered my belly for the nurse practitioner to measure and listen, Mooselet looked up at me. Of course my big belly was sticking up. He says "Wow Mommy, you really are going to have a baby!" The NP just started laughing. She was still laughing about it as we were leaving the office.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm actually gaining weight just about right on track this time around (I think those Christmas cookies are helping. )
My doctor was very peeved at the lab, though, that or one of his office staff-- my AFP results weren't in my chart, and it had been a month since I was in last. *raises eyebrow*
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Cool, Mama! I was in yesterday as well with all of my kids. I am 32 weeks. I asked the midwife to try and discern the baby's position. My kids were very concerned about whether or not she was hurting me.
My son said that the heartbeat sounded like wind.
KQ, I have already passed my weight goal. -_- I passed it awhile ago. -_- The Christmas cookies are definitely helping. -_- -_-
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
...And still no call about the AFP. I'm thinking I should call tomorrow and see if they forgot or if they haven't got them back yet.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
*inches into third trimester*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Congrats and commiserations on the third trimester, Brinestone.
Oh, I forgot to mention. The recent plane travel made my tissues go poof. I am now wearing support stockings every day, and feel like an old lady. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Also, I'm HUNGRY! Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
Some pictures of Geoff & Heather's daughter Zoe Lyanna Card (made available with permission, captions by grandpa).
--Pop
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Soooo cute. Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Has anyone heard from Miriya?
space opera
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
Oh my GOODNESS, what an adorable baby!
(Not sucking up, really I'm not, it's just that mine are getting so old now.... *sniff*)
Thanks for the pictures, Papa.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
I've been having contractions since yesterday. Yesterday they were mild. Today they have been stronger, but extremely erratic. I have no idea what my body is doing, and I have somewhere between 5-6 weeks till due date (depending on which one you use.)
Thankfully, I have an appointment tomorrow morning.
<---frustrated
Edit: Dang, that *is* a cute baby!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
bev, I've been having strong-enough-to-hurt Braxton-Hicks, two to three an hour, for the past 5 1/2 or so weeks. I sympathize.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Wow! You aren't too far a long yet, are you KQ?
This evening a lot of the contractions were 3-5 minutes apart. But that is pretty normal for me. They have slowed down now.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm at about 23 weeks. Quoth my doctor, "Wow, that is a lot this early. Definitely tell us if they get harder or any more frequent."
My mother had this with two of the four of us. With my brother it was actually bad enough that they had to put her on muscle relaxants-- which meant that she had to have pitocin after he was born. And her doctor only authorized one Tylenol with Codeine while she had the pitocin.
She made them call him up in the middle of the night and authorize more.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
quote: And her doctor only authorized one Tylenol with Codeine while she had the pitocin.
I have never felt the effects of pitocin without an epidural. I have heard such horror stories about the evil stuff.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Cute cute captions.
Oh, and cute baby too.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:I have never felt the effects of pitocin without an epidural. I have heard such horror stories about the evil stuff.
Yeah, it's evil. My doctor didn't believe in epidurals until you progressed past a certain point. Evil, evil, evil.
He gave me the medicine when I had progressed past the throwing up and screaming to dangerously low blood pressure and "I can't do this, I quit." And told them that my pain was at 9 1/2 out of 10, 10 being "the worst pain imaginable, ever."
Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
Well, hi to everyone. I get to jump on the baby bandwagon now!
Some of you may have seen me post a little before but I'm not really active on this side of the forums. I've been more active on the OSC side and the Writer's Workshop side. And I wrote "Respite" for the first issue of OSCIMS.
Anyway, I've just found out that I'm pregnant with my second baby.
EDIT: Well, even after using the URL button it didn't work, plus the site is password protected, so I'll have to find another way to link to Claire's 'tree frog' picture.
I have my first Dr. appt. on Monday, which I can hardly wait for because my cycle is so irregular that I could have conceived anytime since mid October. I think it was possibly late November though, cause I bet I'd have more symptoms by now if it wasn't.
The fatigue and breast tenderness have kicked in with a vengeance, as have the frequent potty stops. So far no nausea, which I'm thanking my lucky stars for because my first pregnancy I had it all eight months.
And I got preeclampsia and was on bed rest, then induced a month early because my placenta was calcifying. I had really wanted a home underwater birth but that went out the window with the complications. I'm really glad I ended up at the hospital though because we both would have died if I'd stayed home. I was on the verge of seizures and full blown eclampsia, and Claire was born with an Apgar of 1. Luckily she improved quickly (they think gestationally she would have actually taken another six weeks, not the originally estimated four) was only in the Nicu for two days. In fact she was ready to leave the hospital before Mommy, cause my blood pressure refused to stabilize.
But all's well that ends well, and since I estimate that I'm anywhere between 5 and 9 weeks pregnant at this point with no nausea, I hope this pregnancy will go better.
A negative is that I've already noticed a tummy bulge. I never did toning after Claire was born, and I regret it now. Oh well.
It will be nice to have other women to commiserate and rejoice with this time around; my first pregnancy I was so sick the entire time that most of it is a blur and I think my brain just shut down to cope.
So, hello to all of you! I've read this entire thread, plus all the welcome baby ones, so I know you all better than you know me. But I look forward to actually interacting instead of lurking, if that's okay.
[ January 05, 2006, 12:58 PM: Message edited by: R. Ann Dryden ]
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
If you post your reply in the Full Reply Form, you'll have a button that says URL. When you click on that, a dialogue box pops up, and you then put in the URL you want. Click OK, then another dialogue box pops up and you enter in the title of the URL. It's pretty intuitive once you click on the URL button.
And you can go back and edit your post and do it like that, too.
Please. You broke my screen. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
It won't let me onto myspace because I don't have an account. And I was looking forward to the tree frog pose!
Congratulations on your pregnancy!
Posted by theCrowsWife (Member # 8302) on :
Rachel, congratulations! I hope this one goes smoothly for you. How is your family taking the news?
--Mel
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
Congratulations!
My tummy bulged really quickly with my second one, too - a friend asked when I was due before I had told anyone.
And with the third one, one of my symptoms that let me know I was expecting was that my jeans didn't fit. *sigh*
Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
My family is waiting to hear from the doctor before they even believe I'm pregnant. I told my mom that home pregnancy tests are over 99% accurate, and I've taken three different ones on three different days at different times of the day even, but she's still sceptical. Plus, I KNOW I'm pregnant, but I guess my mom doesn't trust my intuition.
My husband SAYS he believes me, but still won't talk about anything until we've seen the Dr.
So I don't really have anyone to talk to about it.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
The first time I went to the doctor, I absolutely could not pee in the cup, so I don't think they actually confirmed my pregnancy. But at eight weeks, I had an ultrasound for the study I'm in, so I actually saw the baby.
For half a second, I looked up at the monitor and thought, "Oh no! There's no baby there! I'm not pregnant after all!"
And then the technician showed me where the baby's head, torso, and little arm and leg stubs were, and I grinned from ear to ear.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I have really irregular periods, too. Both times, they've done ultrasounds just to try to date the pregnancy. (Last time, I had 5 and got 5 slightly different dates. And apparently, none of them was right. This time, only one so far, we'll see.)
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Congrats, R. Ann! It is *so* nice to be able to talk to people about it and share all the range of emotions you go through.
I went to the midwife for my regular checkup this morning. They made it clear that they will do all in their power to stop a birth for up to the next two weeks. They don't like that I am contracting so much.
I am supposed to keep contractions down between 10-12 per day! Does that sound ridiculous to anyone else? I think I have surpassed my quota for the day already. I have been instructed to take it easy, lay down when I can, and drink lots of water to try and keep them down. If I am not successful, they say they will order me on bedrest.
I do *not* want to have to have them medically stop the contractions. I have heard that the medication they use can be *very* unpleasant.
I just need to get through the next two weeks. After that, I'm not gonna hold back on being as active as I need/want to! ( @ the medical community)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Bev, I'm sorry. The medicine is not fun, from what I hear, and bedrest isn't any picnic, either. And telling you to keep it down to 10-12 a day-- I'm shocked at the nerve. No, really, I understand how it is. Being told that you should only have a certain number and having no control over it, what exactly are you supposed to do? Give your uterus a stern talking-to? Doesn't work that way. *sigh*
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Well, supposedly I do have some control over it--taking rest and keeping hydrated. If the contractions keep "misbehaving", they will take more drastic measures.
I was hoping they would check for dialation today, but they won't do that now because it could stimulate contractions.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, but there's only so much resting and hydrating you can do-- I do all that and it does nothing for contractions, this pregnancy or the last. *sigh* Maybe it'll work better for you. *hopes*
Posted by KetchupPrinceConsort (Member # 8047) on :
On my way to L&D. I've had 10 in the last hour, they want me to come in. :| (This is Anne, btw.)
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
It was almost a Tom/Christy post!
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Oh, and about the post.
about the contractions.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm fine. Back. As I suspected they would, they went away on their own-- the nurse had the sense to monitor me for an hour before giving medication, since the baby wasn't in distress, even though the doctor would have given it right away. (She was concerned about what the meds can do to people with asthma and wanted to make sure it was necessary if they gave it.) They calmed down enough that I was sent home with orders to rest and drink lots of water, and a prescription (which we filled on the way) for pills I can take to stop them if it happens again. Oh, and instructions to call my Dr. tomorrow and let him know it happened, since the on-call doctor was the one taking care of me. So, it's all good. Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
My butt is covered in pregnancy stretch marks.
From what I've read, stretch marks are common on the belly, thighs, and breasts during pregnancy. I don't have the slightest hint of one in any of these places, but my butt is covered. It's really creepifying to look at.
Also, it disturbs me to think that my butt has grown more or faster than my belly, considering how huge my belly is.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Did you have a small butt to begin with?
If it's any comfort, they do fade. Eventually. I have very pale skin and inherited my mother's tendency toward awful stretch marks. As in, bright red that turn to dark, dark purple. Even they eventually fade to about the color of scar tissue, and are hardly noticeable. And my mom says after twenty years or so since her last child, you can hardly see them at all.
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
Y'all will love this. I was in clinic today and just now a couple of the staff rushed up and said that they think a lady in the office was in labor, could I check? And I'm all, like, ME? I haven't had any kids and haven't done any labor stuff in 7 or 8 years.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
KQ: Yeah, it was pretty little. Frankly, it doesn't look a whole lot bigger now, but then, I do have a huge belly that makes it hard to tell.
Theaca: Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, no, Theaca!
Was she in labor?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, Brinestone, if it's any comfort, it will help you keep your maternity clothes on...
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
Well, she's 32 weeks, having regular, hard contractions every 8 minutes, and her first two kids were preemies younger than this. So her mom took her over to the hospital.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Wait... She didn't know she was in labor and it was her third kid? Or she just happened to be there for some other reason? *puzzled*
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
I've been seeing her for fainting spells during her pregnancy and she failed her last two visits. Not sure why she made today's appointment, of all days.
Also, her water broke the last two times, that's how she knew to go to the hospital. So this is kind of a first for her, she said.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Ooooh. Yeah, I guess that could be confusing if she's never had her water not break before, although you'd think she'd notice those contractions getting regular and wonder!
Maybe she was subconsciously prompting herself that she needed to make this visit because part of her knew she was in labor and should go in, but it wasn't registering with the conscious part.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
The medications for stopping contractions aren't that bad - I was on 3 of them. They're basically muscle relaxers (relaxants?) and are mostly used for high blood pressure. I had some yukky side effects b/c I have normal to low blood pressure, so mine kept dipping. Only the magnesium sulfate was really bad and I doubt you'll be on that, beverly. I found that deep breathing exercises did help to slow my contractions somewhat, but there's nothing that you can really do yourself to stop them. I can't believe they told you to limit them. No one told me that and I was in labor for a month.
kq, I'm so glad yours stopped on their own.
I hope y'all can get to term without bedrest or medication. I'll be praying.
Theaca, I can't believe a woman who had 2 preemies would have a third child. Thirty weeks isn't bad (from my perspective,as the mother of a 26-weeker), but it isn't good, either. I didn't feel any contractions until I went into labor at 25 weeks, but I sure felt them then and I felt them a week later when Aerin was born. That woman sounds like she has issues, I'm sorry to say.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Mrs.M, I'm glad too. The medication I was prescribed has side effects of lightheadedness, etc., and I have low blood pressure on a good day. (Extremely low on a bad.) I also have asthma, which it apparently can interfere with. So, I will be trying to avoid taking it by resting and drinking-- which I was already doing. But maybe there's some relaxation or stress-reduction stuff I can do, who knows.
The woman sounds a bit clueless to me, too, although I don't judge her for having three preemies-- some people really feel called to have that many. And then, some are just clueless.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
From GC, it sounds like beverly's on bedrest. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, dear.
I hope it at least stops the contractions.
Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
Oh, I hope Beverly doesn't go crazy on bedrest. When I was on bedrest last pregnancy, I made the couch my base so I still had the TV, and my hubbie jury-rigged the computer and bought a wireless mouse and keyboard so I could play games and stuff. It definitely helped keep me sane. Well, sort of sane. I was really loopy most of the time from the drugs and being so sick. But what little brain cells I had appreciated his efforts to help me out.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I had an extra-long cord for the keyboard and the bed next to the computer when I was on bedrest. (This was before we had a tv.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I sent my friend Amy some See's when she was on bedrest. I wonder if bev needs See's?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
My colostrum is coming in. I'm engorged and it's not comfortable. And I had a clogged duct.
I do not need to get mastitis before the baby is even born. Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Whoa, isn't it a little early for that? When does the colostrum usually come in?
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Yes Bev desperatly needs See's, ok so I don't know how she's doing, but I'm of the belief that See's chocolate is an important food group, more so than other chocolates.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Brinestone, that's what I thought! Combined with the early contractions, it's making me a bit nervous. I'll harass my doctor about it next visit. (He'll probably say that every pregnancy is different, this is a little unusual but within the range of normal, yada yada yada. *sigh*)
breyerchic, I agree. But I'd like to know if her husband and children will steal them before I spend money sending them to her. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(Everything I'm reading says "late in pregnancy" or "the third trimester". I'm not quite there yet...)
(But part of it may be that I was still nursing the first one until two months ago?)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Aha! Found one that says "some women have this happen during their second trimester." So, I guess it is normal-- I'm just getting to experience the maximum period of uncomfortableness with it. Lucky me. Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Umm...yeah. You know, Jennifer and Thomas were, what, 6 years apart, so I hadn't nursed in over 5 years...and I NEVER STOPPED lactating. Boo weaned completely when I went to DallasCon, and I'm still lactating.
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
Did you get tested by your doctor? You shouldn't be lactating, Boon. Although I guess I have no idea how long ago Dallascon was. A little bit of clear fluid each day is not that uncommon, but milky fluid, milky stuff, years and months after you stopped breastfeeding? That doesn't sound right. You should be blood tested for high prolactin levels.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, the milk had completely stopped for me. I was just getting comfy-- and then the colostrum started kicking in. I was getting more and more uncomfortable in one spot, and finally checked it out-- and found that I had a clogged duct (one of the two that caused all my many problems with mastitis when nursing Emma.) I massaged it a little in the warm bath-- and got out pus. >_<
Eeeew, that was gross, and hurt. But I feel much better now, actually, although still engorged.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Yeah, I've been tested nine ways to Sunday, and everything's fine. I'm just a freak.
It only leaks when I'm in the shower, or to, you know, express a little for testing for the doctor and such. It's not like I'm dripping milk all day...there's just always a little bit in there.
I don't "let down" anymore either, unless you count the drippiness in the shower.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
So, Boon, you could, like, adopt a baby and nurse her. Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Yes, I certainly could. I'd make a great wet nurse.
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
My sister-in-law (and best friend) started lactating again when *I* gave birth 5 months ago. Her son is 3 and she produced so much milk back then she probably could have fed every baby in the county. So when she started again when Tyler was born, we both had a good laugh over that one. Luckily, it didn't last very long.
Posted by theCrowsWife (Member # 8302) on :
If it's any comfort, kq, my colostrum started coming in at about the fifth month, I think. And my daughter was born almost a week late, so at least in my case there wasn't any correlation between early lactation and early birth.
--Mel
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
That is a relief.
Honestly, I think it might have more to do with my breasts already being "active"-- why shut down when you can just switch over production? Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
You can cross beverly off the list of pregnant mommies and add her to the list of sleepless mommies. Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Yay! Do we have more info?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh! How are they doing? Is everything okay? How big is the baby? How're the lungs doing? Eating?
*has lots of questions*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*reads other thread*
*breathes a sigh of relief*
Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
I woke up last night with an insatiable craving for a salami sandwich. I never eat in the middle of the night normally, but I decided to indulge. I'm telling you salami has never tasted so good.
But that was topped by this morning; I awoke to the incredibly strong desire to drink a ton of milk. I've had two 12 ounce glasses this morning and I've never tasted a liquid so divine.
They say that one of the best ways to enhance flavor is to be really hungry, but I know that pregnancy can give hunger a run for the money .
Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
Went to the doctor today and had an ultrasound among other things. They estimate that I am about 6 weeks pregnant, which is nice to know. However, at 6 weeks the heartbeat should show up on the ultrasound. It didn't. They even tried two separate machines. So they have me scheduled for another ultrasound in a week. Hopefully they will find a heartbeat then, but if not, there's a pretty good chance this won't be a very long pregnancy.
They also found a cyst on my left ovary, but are hoping it goes away on its own before the second trimester.
And, joy, I have a bacterial infection.
My husband went to pick up the prescription and found out that somehow our insurance policy has been cancelled. It's a mistake somewhere as we are contracted through September, but all the same I didn't get my antibiotics because we can't afford to pay $90 for a prescription without insurance.
So, now I have an estimated due date of September 9, but I'm more nervous than excited, because of the results of the ultrasound.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Here's hoping there's a heartbeat next week!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
It could simply be that you're not as far along as they thought.
Good thoughts winging your way! *hug*
Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
Thank you! I am trying not to worry unnecessarily.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(((hugs)))
I do not like the first call of the morning being my doctor's office. "Anne, Dr. Hartford needs you to come in either today or tomorrow."
I mean, it's probably just because I was in to L&D while he was gone. But still, rather inspiring.
Did you call your Dr. about not being able to get the antibiotic? He will know if he wants you to take it right away, and they often have an emergency supply or samples that they can dispense to patients who can't pay for their meds. Or will call the drug company on your behalf and get some. At any rate, he needs to know that you weren't able to get it.
Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
Well, needless to say my husband's first task of the morning was to call the insurance company. It turns out they sent us cards in the mail with the wrong policy number on them. Sheesh. So they will be sending new cards. But the bad news is under our new plan (which stinks, by the way: the premiums went up and the benefits went down, plus now we have large deductibles) we have a $200 deductible per person on prescription meds before they cover any of it.
My hubbie called the pharmacy and explained all this, and the pharmacy manager said she could give us a generic form of the medicine for only $48. I'll pick it up today.
But it is still very annoying. I hate our insurance. We pay $230 a month just for our toddler to be covered. Once you figure in the deductibles, is there really any benefit? Oh well. The church my husband works for is trying to find a better insurance company, hopefully things will improve soon.
Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
KQ, let us know how it goes at the Dr. for you. I'm sure it will be fine, but I'd like to know.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
It was, as I suspected, fine. He did check my cervix ( >_< ), but I'm not effaced or anything. He also said that apparently, the lab messed up and never did the AFP. So, since I was due for an ultrasound anyway in a couple of weeks, he's going to send me to a specialist with the good machines for an appt. as soon as possible instead of waiting and doing it himself or having a tech come and use his little machine.
Of course, because I have Medi-Cal, I called the specialist's office, and they said they need a referral from my doctor before I make an appointment. So I called my doctor's office back and the billing specialist was out. I hope she's able to get it sorted out today. *sigh* I sympathize on the insurance thing, it's a pain to deal with.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, got a call back from the insurance specialist. She says it's a new form, not actually required by Medi-Cal but required by the doctor as of the first of this year to facilitate his billing. My doctor has to personally initial it and stuff, and so she has to go over it with him. So it may not be until tomorrow that I'll be able to make an appointment. I hate bureaucratic crap.
And I just went and picked up some betadine prep wipes at a medical supply store (the third we looked at) because I'm having a glucose screening done tomorrow and last time I was at that lab (the ones who didn't do the AFP, them), they didn't have anything but rubbing alcohol to prep with, and it was half an hour of them searching and calling and searching some more before they went over to a doctor's office across the street and borrowed some betadine. The nice lady at the store even sold them to me by the wipe because I don't need a whole box, and they're the non-staining, non-smelly kind. I got 20 to have extra on hand.
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
KQ, Forgive me if I've missed it - are you allergic to rubbing alcohol? Or is it "bad" in some other way?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Yes, she is.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I sure am. I forgot that not everyone would be aware of my other posts to that effect. Sorry. I not only have a skin reaction (which eventually spreads and gives me itchiness, hives, etc.), it's also an asthma trigger for me. A severe one.
The nurse I had in L&D with Emma apologized after the third time she forgot that I was allergic and I had to groggily inform someone of it, but added, "Around here, it's kind of like being allergic to water..."
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Yay for Bev and her baby!
I'm soooo glad they're both doing great!
space opera
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Last night I took a bath. While I soaked, you danced, making tremors in my earth-round belly.
Is it possible to love someone who is no more than a twitching lump and a blue-and-white blanket in the bedroom? Baby, I can't wait to see your face.
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
*tiptoes in*
SO, did you leave me an IM a few or more nights ago?
*runs out*
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
She thinks it's catching. Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
It might be time for The Talk.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*giggles*
Posted by pepperuda (Member # 1573) on :
Good luck, R. Ann. I'll be praying for you.
It was the hardest appointment ever- to go all excited, and to leave... so up in the air, trying to be hopeful and yet not wanting to get my hopes too high.
Then again, I was nine weeks, so....
But, I'm pregnant again! (16 weeks) And the baby has finally started to relax a bit and let me feel like a human being from time to time. I really hate puking!
I so hope that all goes well for you.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:But, I'm pregnant again! (16 weeks) And the baby has finally started to relax a bit and let me feel like a human being from time to time. I really hate puking!
Oh, congratulations! I hope this pregnancy goes well. (((hugs)))
And, yeah, puking's no fun.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Whoa, pepperuda, haven't seen you around in a long time.
Posted by pepperuda (Member # 1573) on :
Yeah. It's been awhile. I started lurking again when I was too sick to be productive on my prep period.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
So*, the referral thing still isn't worked out. I spoke to the insurance specialist at my Dr.'s office yesterday evening, and she promised she would call me by this morning at the latest.
*eyes clock* I suppose she still has 20 minutes, technically.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Unless she called my husband's cell, of course...
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Nope, she didn't. :|
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
...but finally called me, a little late, but at least with results. The authorization has been faxed, and I should be able to make an appointment this afternoon. Glad that's dealt with!
Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
Yay. Good luck, KQ.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
AAAAAARGH!
According to my dr's office, the authorization should have done it.
According to the specialist's office, my dr's office needs to make the appointment for me. How does that even work? How will they even know when I'm available? This is ridiculous. Plus, I think my dr's office is already closed for the weekend. The LONG weekend. Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
That's just wrong. And it doesn't sound normal either. I've had appointments with specialists before and I don't remember it being that complicated.
(((ketchupqueen)))
I hope it works out for you, and sorry you have to wait. I'm waiting for my appointment too, so I feel your pain. Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
Oh, yes. This happens. Not sure why they think more steps are good, but they do. Whoever "they" is. KQ, just have your doctor's office make an appt. Just call monday and explain it to the nurse. Nurse calls, makes the appt, and calles you back. THEN you call the specialist' office and CHANGE the appt to a time you can make it. That will work. What long weekend? Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
It doesn't sound normal to me, either, although my aunt says some specialists are like that.
It's not like the appointment is completely vital and I must have it right now. But it would be good to get it done ASAP, and the sooner the appt. gets made, the freer a schedule I have to fit it into.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Theaca, that will work. Thanks! I don't know why I didn't think of that... Pregnant brain, I guess. *sigh* The office is closed on Mon. (Martin Luther King Jr. Day.) A message has been left-- I guess they'll get it Tue.
Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
Well, had my second ultrasound today. Again I measured at 6 weeks, but this time the tech had an even harder time trying to find anything resembling a heartbeat. It was a huge letdown for me, even though I'd been trying not to get my hopes up too high.
They sent me for bloodwork to compare my HCG levels with the ones from last week. Apparently my levels were on par for someone 4-5 weeks pregnant. My doctor also wants me to get blood drawn on Wednesday and Friday, and she'll compare all the levels next week, and she wants me to have another ultrasound then.
I can't help being really depressed. I got home from the appointment and slept for three hours. I just kind of shut down. I'm glad hubbie was home today.
It's really hard to be in limbo. If I knew for sure I was miscarrying I could prepare for that, but this not knowing bit is really throwing me for a loop. Even if I'm not miscarrying, I'm not experiencing a normal pregnancy. I'm not sure what that will mean, but the doctor sounded a little worried when she was asking me to get the blood tests. Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
I had a miscarriage at 5 weeks last spring. It was heartbreaking thinking the miscarriage was coming but not knowing for sure. It was almost a relief when the blood started to flow in earnest.
I wish you the best. I also had bleeding early on in this pregnancy, and now I am holding a sweet newborn in my lap. You just never know.
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
Limbo is hard, because you don't know whether to mourn or celebrate. You just exist and sometimes, that's the hardest thing to do.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(((hugs))) Oh, I am so sorry. I will pray for you, if that's okay.
Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
Of course that's fine, KQ. I have a very strong personal relationship with the Lord and I don't care who knows it. Prayer is great.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
R. Ann, I've been where you are - I lost 2 of the triplets we conceived and there were periods where we didn't know if I was losing them or not. It's truly horrible not knowing either way. I'm sorry you're going through that. You'll be in my prayers.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
(((Rachel)))
Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
Thank you everyone. The doctor called with the results of Monday's tests. HCG levels are supposed to double every 48 hours at this stage of the pregnancy. They've gone up, but not enough. They haven't even doubled once in almost a week. I'll still do more tests tomorrow and Friday, and another ultrasound on Monday, but I have a feeling that a miscarriage is the most likely outcome at this point.
I know that God has a plan for my life, and I'm going to rest in Him no matter what, I know He'll take care of me.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
((((hugs))))
In my news, I finally have an appt. for an ultrasound. 11 am Thursday.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I'm sorry, Rachel.
(hugs)
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
*hugs*
Posted by Valentina (Member # 9029) on :
I've been married for almost 3 years,and we were thinking of a baby,we were pretty excited,until i read the pregnacy thread,i started crying and we're not having a baby anymore,at least not for now.I am terrified of pregnancy,i am in really good shape,i run 4 miles in 38 minutes,i don't want strecht marks,but i want a baby too,thank goodness my husband is amazing and understands my fears,please someone tell me that is isn't so bad!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Valentina, it's okay to be scared. Heck, I'm scared, and this is my second time doing it! But can I tell you something else? It's worth it.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Keep in mind that when we post in this thread it's to complain about the worst parts and to ask about weird symptoms. The gaps between posts are the parts where we're fine and enjoying being pregnant.
Stretch marks do stink, but you're not guaranteed to get them, especially on your first pregnancy. And from what I've heard, they fade.
Posted by pepperuda (Member # 1573) on :
(((R. Ann))) I still have you in my prayers. I'm so sorry this is so hard.
Did anyone have trouble gaining weight? I'm 17 weeks and weighed in this morning at 113 -the exact weight that I started at. Everything I've read says I should be gaining a pound a week at this point. I'd be thrilled if I could put on a pound period.
My doctor doesn't seem to be too worried. I eat really healthy and he says the baby will just take it from me, but I'm still worried.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
pepperuda, my first pregnancy I lost 5 lbs. in the first trimester, then didn't put anything on for the first half of the second. Around about 24 weeks, I finally started gaining-- and had hit the goal gain (I gained 21 lbs.) by the end of the pregnancy. (And had an 8 lb., 2 oz. child.) If your baby is not growing, your doctor will know it-- that's why he measures your fundus. But really, it's okay to not gain weight. Just keep eating what you're eating, and drink plenty of water, and it'll be fine.
For what it's worth, this time, I've had no problems gaining weight after the morning sickness went away. To the point where I kind of wish I had. I had a net gain of 0 in the first trimester, but since then, I'm afraid I'm going a little ahead of schedule. :blushes:
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Valentina, I was terrified too! Let me tell you, it is much more "worth it" than you can even imagine until you do it. People like to complain to get sympathy, which is important. But what sometimes goes unsaid is that even though I loved my parents and my sister, even though I was married and loved my husband more than anyone in my life, I had never KNOWN what love could be like until I held my first son in my arms.
Okay, ladies, time to list a few good things about being pregnant! My favorites:
1. You get to eat a lot and everybody excuses you because you're "eating for two".
2. Finally: cleavage!
3. I loved all the attention with everybody suddenly caring how I was doing all the time.
4. Suddenly there's something to talk to strangers about ... you know, the ones you meet in the elevator or grocery store line, and stand there in awkward silence? Well, suddenly there's something visible that you have in common and can talk about!
5. You get to join the "mommy club". (There really is a club, I didn't even know about it until I joined!)
6. Best of all: feeling that little person moving inside and knowing that I (with the help of hubby, and God) was creating a new life.
It's so worth it! Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Amen to everything JennaDean said (except for the loving your baby the moment you hold him/her because I'm pregnant with my first and don't know that feeling yet).
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm starting to get really annoyed with number 2. But then, I started out rather large to begin with.
And you know, I think motherhood starts before you give birth. It's when you know you're pregnant and realize that you would make any sacrifice for that little life, even before it's born, even before you know it's a life, more like the hope or potential of one... That's when you're a mother.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Oh, I'm loving #2. *grins* Actually, I'm loving #4 and #6 a lot too.
And no, I'm not having any trouble gaining weight. I did find out, though, that my best friend's sister gained 40 lbs. in her pregnancy. She was every bit as tiny as I was pre-pregnancy (in fact, we were very similar in size), and her doctor actually recommended that she gain that much. So I feel better knowing I've already gained almost 30 and have 10.5 weeks still to go.
Posted by Valentina (Member # 9029) on :
Thanks for all the people that answer, i feel a lot better now! i'm just laughin at myself now for being so silly.I'm sure when i have a baby it will be great!! THANKS SO MUCH Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by pepperuda: Did anyone have trouble gaining weight? I'm 17 weeks and weighed in this morning at 113 -the exact weight that I started at. Everything I've read says I should be gaining a pound a week at this point. I'd be thrilled if I could put on a pound period.
My doctor doesn't seem to be too worried. I eat really healthy and he says the baby will just take it from me, but I'm still worried.
My general thinking would be that if your doc isn't worried, you probably don't need to be.
I lost weight until 16 weeks with my first, and until 20 with my second. They were both perfectly healthy. I only lost weight until about the 14th week with my third . . . and she ended up 1.5 pounds bigger than the larger of her sibs. Yikes!
Valentina, pregnancy IS scary. And awesome (in the literal sense) and wonderful and intense and miserable and blissful . . . often all at the same time! But I've done it three times (four if you count the very early miscarriage), and I hope to some day do it again. Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
Valentina, I would highly recommend going for it. I have never experienced more intense emotions in my life than those connected with my daughter. I love motherhood and don't regret one instant. I don't even mind the complications I had, since the end result was okay. Obviously I'm not enjoying the miscarriage, but I'm still optimistic about the future and looking forward to trying again.
It's SOOOOO worth it.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I want a baby.
Darn biological clock.
I'm getting clucky!
Edit: I will have a baby one day - Tony and I have discussed this and thought about my job / his job etc etc. But I want a baby *now*. My hormones are up to no good. I even had a dream that I had triplets last night.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
We are sitting at lunch one day when my daughter casually mentions that she and her husband are thinking of "starting a family." "We're taking a survey," she says half-joking. "Do you think I should have a baby?" It will change your life," I say, carefully keeping my tone neutral. I know," she says, "no more sleeping in on weekends, no more spontaneous vacations."
But that is not what I meant at all. I look at my daughter, trying to decide what to tell her. I want her to know what she will never learn in childbirth classes. I want to tell her that the physical wounds of child bearing will heal, but becoming a mother will leave her with an emotional wound so raw that she will forever be vulnerable.
I consider warning her that she will never again read a newspaper without asking, "What if that had been MY child?" That every plane crash, every house fire will haunt her. That when she sees pictures of starving children she will wonder if anything could be worse than watching your child die.
I look at her carefully manicured nails and stylish suit and think that no matter how sophisticated she is, becoming a mother will reduce her to the primitive level of a bear protecting her cub. That an urgent call of "Mom!" will cause her to drop a soufflé or her best crystal without a moment’s hesitation. I feel that I should warn her that no matter how many years she has invested in her career, she will be professionally derailed by motherhood. She might arrange for childcare, but one day she will be going into an important business meeting and she will think of her baby's sweet smell. She will have to use every ounce of discipline to keep from running home, just to make sure her baby is all right. I want my daughter to know that every day decisions will no longer be routine. That a five year old boy's desire to go to the men's room rather than the women's at McDonald's will become a major dilemma. That right there, in the midst of clattering trays and screaming children, issues of independence and gender identity will be weighed against the prospect that a child molester may be lurking in that restroom. However decisive she may be at the office, she will second-guess herself constantly as a mother.
Looking at my attractive daughter, I want to assure her that eventually she may shed the pounds of pregnancy, but she will never feel the same about herself. That her life, now so important, will be of less value to her once she has a child. That she would give up in a moment to save her offspring, but will also begin to hope for more years, not to accomplish her own dreams, but to watch her child accomplish theirs.
I want her to know that a caesarean scar or shiny stretch marks will become badges of honor.
My daughter's relationship with her husband will change, but not in the way she thinks. I wish she could understand how much more you can love a man who is careful to powder the baby or who never hesitates to play with his child. I think she should know that she will fall in love with him again for reasons she would now find very unromantic.
I wish my daughter could sense the bond she will feel with women throughout history who have tried to stop war, prejudice and drunk driving. I hope she will understand why I can think rationally about most issues, but become temporarily insane when I discuss the threat of nuclear war to my children's future. I want to describe to my daughter the exhilaration of seeing your child learn to ride a bike. I want to capture for her the belly laugh of a baby who is touching the soft fur of a dog or cat for the first time. I want her to taste the joy that is so real it actually hurts.
My daughter' s quizzical look makes me realize that tears have formed in my eyes. "You'll never regret it," I finally say. Then I reached across the table, squeezed my daughter's hand and offered a silent prayer for her, and for me and for all the mere mortal women who stumble their way into this most wonderful of callings.
Please share this with a Mom that you know or all of your girlfriends who may someday be Moms.
And all of the men you love...they have mothers too.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
So true.
quote:My daughter's relationship with her husband will change, but not in the way she thinks. I wish she could understand how much more you can love a man who is careful to powder the baby or who never hesitates to play with his child. I think she should know that she will fall in love with him again for reasons she would now find very unromantic.
Oh, so true. I know I have had moments, sick or tired or just being lazy, when I'm laying on the couch or in bed and watching or listening to Jeff getting Emma ready, getting her out of her crib, changing her diaper, feeding her breakfast, playfully convincing her to EAT the food, not THROW it, without scolding, getting her dressed, picking her up, making sure there are diapers and wipes in the diaper bag and a toy in her hand, saying, "Tell mommy bye-bye" and watching her grin as she blows kisses to me and says, "Bye!", happy to go anywhere with Abba, and knowing that he'll buckle her into her car seat correctly and be a more careful driver than even his careful norm because she's in the car, and not mind that it takes twice as long to do his errands, and even listen to HER music for the fifteen-hundredth time in the car, and I'm just so in love with them both, him more than I ever thought I would be even on our wedding day, her more than I ever knew I could be.
Okay, that was a paragraph of a sentence. Note to self: do not post about gushy things first thing in the morning.
Well, we get to go see Bridget this morning. (Of course, Jeff is still holding out on the small, small chance that we will find out that Bridget is actually James and my doctor was wrong on my early ultrasound. )
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
The doctor who did the ultrasound bumped my due date up a few days-- April 25, as opposed to April 29. Which puts me at 26 weeks, not 25.
He uses the new-fangled really cool high-res "4-D" machines, so we have an excellent picture of Bridget. (It's definitely Bridget, not James; the labia were quite visible. No questions there.) Everything is healthy, heart is working fine, spine is good, organ development is good, weight is good (about 2 lbs. right now), and no birth defects or problems with the placenta, umbilical, uterus, or cervix are apparent. (Of course, the cord is apparently around her neck, but I kind of expected that. At least it's not around her ankle yet.)
Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
Wow, that is awesome! Congratulations on what sounds like an excellent appointment!
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
My appointment was not so excellent, if only because it involved me getting a RHOGAM shot in my butt cheek. But the every-two-weeks appointments have started, which means I'm nearing the end of the pregnancy and the beginning of my life as a mommy proper.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Shots. Ick. But yay for pregnancy drawing to a close! May you not be too sick of it by the time it's over...
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
Naw, you have to be a certain amount of "sick of it", in order to really want to go through labor. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I said too sick of it. I was at the point where I played tag with my husband and made myself ill eating a whole bag full of real black licorice (couldn't look at it for a year) and drank vile cumin tea trying to make the baby come by the time my doctor gave in and induced me.
Of course, I had been having real contractions for two weeks. And I knew that she was more overdue than they said. (They finally admitted it when she was born.)
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
KQ, Bridget is beautiful. Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
That is the neatest ultrasound I've ever seen! So it's Bridget Niamh? How do you say the middle name? Gorgeous little girl.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Ni-av, I think.
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
cool (I just googled it, that looks about right, it said Neeve)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Neeve or Nee-iv. To hear someone who actually speaks gaelic pronounce it, go to babynamesofireland.com.
And thank you on the beautifuls. I think she will look a tiny bit more like Jeff than Ems does. But it's a bit early to tell yet. I can tell you that they have several prominent features in common; we were in the car and I looked back at Emma sleeping, and down at the picture, and they were very similar.
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
I wonder if I could get by using Gaelic names for a Welsh Terrier puppy, not that I will be getting one for several years.
Posted by Jon Boy (Member # 4284) on :
You almost certainly could not. Your dog will know the difference.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Yeah, you'd need an Irish Setter.
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
No setters! Maybe an Irish Terrier. Posted by pepperuda (Member # 1573) on :
Thank you, ketchupqueen and rivka, it always helps to hear that someone else has experienced the same thing.
I know that I shouldn't worry too much, it's just darn emotional irrationality, and having lost the first, I don't want to repeat on the second.
Mama Squirrel, that was positively inspiring!!!!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:I know that I shouldn't worry too much
It is your right as a mother to worry. The rest of your life is going to be worry.
Just don't let it eat you up. (((hugs)))
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
kq, that is a spectacular picture!
pepperuda, I lost a baby at 5 weeks. 2 months later I was pregnant again, and right now there is a sqiggly wiggly 3 month old on my lap. I understand being nervous, though.
Rachel, I'm so sorry for what you're going through. I'm thinking of you. *hugs*
space opera
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
breyerchic, how about an Irish Wolfhound? Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Those things are BIG. We used to go to the Irish Fair when I was little, and they had a Wolfhound show. I swear I could have ridden some of those dogs, and I was 8 or 9!
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Big but gentle.
We were considering a second dog a while back and Tony fell in love with an Irish Wolfhound at the pound. It was incredibly gentle - but I had to veto.
I decided our little cottage couldn't handle a kelpie *and* an Irish Wolfhound!
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
Someday, I will have an Irish Wolfhound. Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
I'm a huge sighthound fan in general. I would love to own greyhounds, afghans, whippets and the like, and I wouldn't mind a wolfhound either.
But all of those are wishes that must be put off until I'm in a house instead of a condo. I refuse to own a dog in a condo without even a patio. It's not fair to the animal or to me. So I will wait. Sigh.
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
I know an Italian Greyhound that would much perfer no yard to what she has (which is about a 3 acre fenced yard that she's in when her owners aren't home), she has taken to going to the bathroom in the garage during snow.
I was raised with Airedale terriers, our current one is 90 pounds, and not over weight, but for my own dog, out of my parents house, in a condo or appartment, that I would be walking, I want a small, insane, terrier, so a Welsh was the first choice, though there are quite a few others that would work if I find one in a rescue or shelter situation faster (there was a welsh in my state, on petfinder this fall, I had to edit the parent controls on my computer so I wouldn't email them).
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Being sick is no fun. Being pregnant is no fun.
Being this sick while pregnant is horrible. *grumps*
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Being this sick while pregnant is horrible.
*sympathy* *gentle hugs*
You and Brinestone should start a support group. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, the good part is, I seem to be getting over it almost as quickly as Emma did. You know, they say your immune system is supposed to be better when you're pregnant. I've never had any personal experience of that.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
I mentioned to my ob at my last appt that I had had a cold for more than a week. He said that viral stuff tends to last longer in pregnant women. Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
quote:Being this sick while pregnant is horrible.
Amen. :grrr:
I had a broken tailbone, bladder infection, epidemic pleurodyna, including a couple days of debilitating fever and headache.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Mama, having a cold for more than a week isn't normal? I get them all the time that last for, oh, two or three weeks.
bev, I need to talk to my dr. again, I suspect a bladder infection, too. It hurt when I had the ultrasound, and I've been having some pretty bladder-infection-ish symptoms. Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Colds lasting longer than normal is one thing. Being sick for five weeks is another thing entirely.
The good news is that my ear has unplugged (most of the time). The bad news is that the racking cough and severe nasal congestion is back.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Ick. I'm sorry.
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
I was really super healthy with my first. I mean, actually healthier than when I wasn't pregnant.
With my second I did tend to be congested quite a bit, and I was told that was pretty normal during pregnancy.
With my third I developed a cough that started before Christmas - I remember not being able to sing in the Christmas choir - and lasted until he was born, April 25. Dr said it was "bronchiolitis".
With my fourth, I developed the same cough, just a little later in the pregnancy, and it totally wore me down, until the day before she was born when the Dr finally said it was pneumonia.
They won't give you an epidural if you have pneumonia, you know.
I think I'm done. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I was told by my first doctor that about a third of his asthmatic patients get better, a third get worse, and a third stay the same during pregnancy. I'm in the third that have the asthma get worse. Lucky me. Perhaps that contributes to my immune system seeming more run-down during pregnancy?
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
Apparently hormones and estrogen can really affect asthma. Whether it can also affect the immune system, dunno. Apparently some women have fluctuations in asthma control that correlate to the monthly menstrual cycle as well.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
KQ, definitely get it checked out. Bladder infections during pregnancy can do odd things. They have been linked to preterm labor. (Kinda like gingivitis.) They can also be hard to get rid of.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Theaca, I was thinking that when I'm not pregnant and have had trouble with my lungs, I seem to have a weaker immune system. I don't know if there's a real correlation, but can your lungs not functioning right lower your immune response?
bev, that's scary; I'll definitely call if my symptoms don't get better in the next two days.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
kq, call now. I had 4 UTIs when I was pregnant with Aerin. The last one was so bad, I thought my pelvis was separating. My OB described it as "raging" when she got the lab results. You might also want to ask them about GBS (a strep-B infection in the uterus). I had that twice with Aerin. Truly I was the Job of pregnancy.
BTW, Bridget is gorgeous. She takes after her momma and big sister. One of the coolest girls I ever knew was named Bridget, but everyone called her Jet. Niamh is pronounced differently than I thought - it's much prettier than what I was thinking.
Irish Wolfhounds are extremely high maintenance dogs. They require a lot of intensive training. I once saw a video where one destroyed the interior of a car. She actually ripped up the seats themselves, not just the upholstery. Our dogs have been great with Aerin. Our Lhaso Apso totally ignores her, which is great, because he has a tendency to be aggressive towards children. Our Shih Tzu is very curious and has been jumping up on the couch to sniff her. He loves to watch her in her swing for some reason, but he's so stupid that he gets hit with it almost every time.
Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
Well, after the third ultrasound today it is definite that there is no living baby. The hormone levels are dropping as well.
I'm going in for a D&C tomorrow morning, super early. I have to be at the hospital at 5am.
I'm actually doing okay now; I did a fair amount of grieving this past week when the signs all pointed this way. Now that I know for sure I'm almost relieved. I hated being in limbo.
Well, we'll try again in a few months.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
I'm sorry.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I am sorry, too.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Aww, that must be hard. Somebody should resurrect the miscarrage support thread. That was some really good stuff.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I'm sorry, R.Ann.
Posted by theCrowsWife (Member # 8302) on :
Rachel, I'm so sorry. *hugs*
--Mel
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
*hug*
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
(((Rachel)))
I just bumped this thread for you. Hang in there. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(((hugs))) I'm so sorry. I wish there was more I could say, but all I can say is, "I'm sorry."
I've been at the hospital having IV fluids pumped in me the last couple of hours. They gave me some IV anti-nausea meds right before I left, so hopefully I'll be able to get some liquids down before I fall asleep. Hopefully I will be able to keep more down tomorrow, too.
Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
KQ, I had the same thing a couple times in my last pregnancy. No fun. I hope you feel better really soon.
My doctor gave me a pill to soften the cervix tonight in preparation for the D & C. She said there 'may be some bleeding.'
Talk about understatement. I'm having the miscarriage right here at home, complete with labor pain type cramps, heavy bleeding and clots.
I agreed to the D & C specifically to AVOID this situation. And I can't sleep. Not that there's much point; I have to be in the shower by 4 am anyway, only an hour from now.
But because I am having surgury, I can't even drink anything, and I'm very thirsty. Plus I'd like to take a pain med, but I need water to swallow it, and I'm not supposed to eat anyway so I don't know if a pill is okay.
Sorry for venting. I'll just be very very glad when this is over.
Thanks you guys for your support.
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
I'm so sorry.
Venting here is definitely fine, but that was really only a little bit of a vent. If you want to do a proper job, you really need to get the whine up a few levels.
But seriously, that all sucks. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Oh my goodness. That was really not a vent given what you are going through.
*very, very, very gentle hugs*
Can your ring your doctor/hospital and check if an analgesic is ok?
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Yeah, I would do that if I were you. I would also find a quiet corner and whimper to myself.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Of course, I realise now looking at the timestamps you will probably be in hospital by now Rachel.
I hope you're ok, given all the circumstances.
Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
Well, since I did end up miscarrying at home, I didn't need the D & C after all. That's something at least. But that was a tense few hours, full of memories of things I'd rather forget. I still went to the hospital to check in, out of it enough to not even think of calling my doctor and letting her know what happened before leaving. Luckily the nurses at the hospital were thinking more clearly than me, and I called from there.
The doctor cancelled the D & C and sent me home, but I had only been sleeping for 2 hours when they woke me up to come in and be checked. After a 2 hour appointment it was decided that I'm mostly done, and another pill will take care of the rest. No surgery unless there are complications.
So I'm tired and in pain and still a bit emotionally strung tight, but I'm home.
I'm going to try to go back to sleep. Luckily my hubbie is home, so I don't have to be a mommy today for my toddler.
Yay for Vicodin! Goodnight.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Rest well. Heal well. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(((hugs))) I hope you feel better soon (physically at least.) We're here to listen to anything you need to say. And we love you.
Posted by Belle (Member # 2314) on :
I hope the Vicodin helped you get some sleep and rest. I'm very sorry for what' you've been through and what you're going through now emotionally. (((Rachel)))
Posted by pepperuda (Member # 1573) on :
(((R. Ann))). I'm so sorry. You're in my thoughts. I'm glad your hubbie is able to be there for you.
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
((hugs))
Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
Gosh I love you guys. Anyone who doubts the power of words doesn't have any Internet friends. Maybe that's why writing is so important to me.
Anyway, thanks to all. I feel a bit better and am actually going to a teacher meeting tonight. I've been looking forward to it for a month because I get my class lists for the upcoming semester and meet some neat people, and I'm not gonna let this miscarriage derail my life.
The worst is definitely over, and I feel like I can heal now. And I feel a sense of peace. Thanks all for your prayers and thoughts; you mean a lot to me.
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
((Rachel))
I've been thinking of you, and I know everyone else here is too. Be gentle with yourself and do whatever you need to begin healing.
space opera
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
So*, Emma keeps climbing in the new car seat. We picked up a new one because the one we used for her had no LATCH on the base, no canopy, the base was non-adjustable, and was an older-style three-point harness instead of the five-point. Not unsafe, but not as secure. Plus, this was an unbeatable deal-- it was one of last year's patterns of a Graco SnugRide carrier seat (this pattern, to be exact), and since it's the end of January, we found it at Target marked down multiple times on clearance-- to $37.68, original price $149.99. We had a $20 gift card, so that made the total cost to us $17.68. At that price, we can actually possibly make money on it by selling the old one on Ebay! (It's not unsafe or anything, so we don't feel bad about doing that. And someone can get a really cheap carrier car seat. ) But anyway, no matter where we put it (we will eventually install the base and put the carrier where the old carrier and base are living right now, but we have to find the thing to charge the batteries on the camera so we can take a picture of the old one to post on Ebay), Emma keeps pulling it down to the floor and climbing in it! She understands that it's for a baby to go in the car in; we buckled her doll Buddy in and talked about it, and later she put him in and sang "Let's Go Riding in the Car" to him in her own inimitable style ("Cah-cah, cah-cah, cah-cah, cah-cah, VWOOOOM!!!" *insane giggling* *repeat*) But she still keeps thinking it's fun to climb in and giggle about it. Once I asked her when she did it, "Are you a baby?" And she nodded and yelled, "Yeah!" very enthusiastically. Right now I'm going the "ignore it as long as it's not getting dangerous and plan to get it out of sight as soon as possible" route; does anyone have better ideas on how to discourage this?
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
Tell her that, when she gets married, you'll show her fiancee and his family and all of her friends pictures of her doing this?
In other words, no. No ideas. Not a single one.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
That did give me a good laugh, though.
Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
I think it's harmless. I honestly wouldn't worry about it, especially since it is a temporary thing. And by the way, congrats on the awesome deal. I like that color a lot, too.
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
I post merely for your amusement, ketchupqueen. Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Daniel was 13 months old when Jennifer was born, and he did the same thing.
Daniel was 7 when Thomas was born, and he did it then, too.
Really, it is harmless. She'll play in it for a while, and then lose interest. I'd consider getting her her own "special" chair, like a mini moon chair or something.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
IKEA sells this chair that she loves. Not that we can afford it. Or that we have room. Or that she needs another chair-- she has a small plastic chair, a stool, and a rocking chair all of her own already.
But it is a cool chair-- it has a canopy shade you can pull down and everything.
Maybe Grandpa and Grandma will get it for her for her birthday.
But yeah, I figure I'll just have to put up with it until we can get it out of the way. I can at least make sure she doesn't eat in it and stain it, I guess-- it's brand new! I get so little brand new baby stuff, I just want to try to keep it nice, at least until the baby gets here. *sigh*
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
All my kids did that (still do). Whenever there's a car seat in the house, they climb in it and practice with the buckles and whatnot. When they're in the car they know which seat is theirs. No big.
I remember having an infant car seat in the house at one point and my 2-year-old would lounge in it in front of the TV like it was a lay-back chair. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
JennaDean, that's pretty much what she's decided she likes to do-- lay back in it and sip from her sippy cup like she's poolside. Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
My 3 year old would take naps in the baby's car seat. She doesn't do that anymore, but she does put her doll in it and she climbs on it too.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I also wouldn't worry about it, kq. How's the infection, btw?
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Yup - my 16-month-old neice is absolutely fascinated with SSB's carseat. It's adorable.
space opera
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:How's the infection, btw?
Virus is better; the fluids and rest seem to have worked. I had severe heartburn for a couple of days after that, but it has pretty much cleared up by now. Bladder symptoms seem to be gone as well. So I'm much happier. Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
Yay! Always glad to hear positive things.
Now, I know it was already mentioned a couple times on this thread but I don't remember where. How far along is everyone, due dates etc?
Sorry if this is tedious. I just thought it would be a good idea to repost, since it's been a little while.
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
She thought she had miscarried, but it turned out that there were twins, the baby was born healthy but a bit premature (she's 4 now).
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Apparently some people don't - no missed periods, no (obvious) weight gain, no other symptoms.
That still freaks me out. Nowadays, the getting pregnant wouldn't be an issue. But I fear (irrationally - I'm on the pill and don't miss taking them) falling pregnant unknowingly and keeping drinking alcohol (which I do now - not to excess, but I would never drink if I were pregnant) / taking the pill / not eating right and harming the baby because of that.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
I heard of a woman who didn't know she was pregnant finding out from her doctor 6 weeks prior to due date. She had been told firmly all her adult life that it was *impossible* for her to have a baby. She had adopted children already. She was also overweight, so the pregnancy growth was hidden.
I figure if you are positive you can't be preggers, you will rationalize all your symptoms away. Just as a man isn't going to assume that his weight-gain and rumbly tummy isn't due to a tiny human living in his abdomen.
Still, I have reflected on her story many times. Those baby kicks... that's some serious gas-pains! Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
I worked with a woman who drank and smoked heavily and was thick-waisted anyway. She found out she was pregnant after getting in a fist fight at a bar. They wouldn't serve her any more drinks because of the pregnancy. She thought they were making fun of her and punched the bartender. Later the hospital did a pregnancy test. She was 6 months along.
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
I did have a friend who thought she was pregnant, went to the doctor on the Navy base who said she wasn't; she was told this on more than one occasion. Several months later (and bigger), she thought she had a huge tumor and was going to die. A friend finally took her to a "civilian" doctor, who told her she was 7 months pregnant.
How could the doctors miss this for 7 months?
And what tumor moves around like a baby? Mom must have been terrified.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:went to the doctor on the Navy base who said she wasn't; she was told this on more than one occasion.
Did they do a pregnancy test? Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
Not a very accurate one, it would seem.
Seven months!!! Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I can't believe that they did a pregnancy test and missed it for seven months. They must have not done it.
Or the doctor was just temporarily insane and in denial because he didn't want to deliver a baby?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
There are such things as false-negatives, you know.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
For seven months? Several times? At that point you can usually see the baby moving under the skin now and then!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Not all women have noticeable baby-movement (noticeable from the outside, I mean), particularly if they are considerably overweight.
I can easily see a scenario where a single pregnancy test was done (either too early, or false-negative for some other reason), and the doctor mentally wrote her off as "wants to be pregnant, but she's just fat." And continued to do so for several future visits.
I'm also slightly wary of hard-to-believe details from third-hand stories . . . (No insult intended, Jenna, just it's so easy to have "broken telephone," neh?)
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
My best friend never, as in not once, ever felt her baby move, nor were baby movements ever visible without an ultrasound. The docs kept telling her, after using an ultrasound, that the baby was perfectly healthy and active. Baby still is, now at three months old.
Point being that some women never feel their baby move.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
*nod* That's rarer, but she's not the only one I know of.
Heck, I once spoke with one woman (a nurse! although she only became a nurse afterwards) who only knew she was in labor because she was hooked up to monitors -- she didn't feel the contractions. (Could be she would have later, but they did a c-section.)
[ January 30, 2006, 02:01 AM: Message edited by: rivka ]
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
quote:And what tumor moves around like a baby?
What, have you not seen Aliens?
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
"I'm also slightly wary of hard-to-believe details from third-hand stories "
I don't blame you, rivka. I don't know all the details. I just know she thought she was pregnant, had been told by the doctor on more than one occasion that she wasn't, and was 7 months pregnant by the time another doctor confirmed the pregnancy. I remember asking her, "Didn't you feel the baby move?" She said, "Yeah, I was convinced I had a tumor and I was going to die."
quote:What, have you not seen Aliens?
Yeah. That's really comforting ... "Oh, good. It's not a tumor, it's an alien." Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
You know I get nightmares easily, right?
Luckily, I just saw War of the Worlds, and it's so unbelievable that I'm ready to hit the hay. Posted by pepperuda (Member # 1573) on :
My great-aunt was very heavy. 4'11" and 300+. She was also older, so she just thought that she was going through "the change of life". That was until she started having severe back pain. She went to the hospital and they told her that she was in labor. People really do rationalize symptoms.
On a happier note, I finally gained a pound and I felt my baby for the very first time today. I'm so thrilled I can hardly stand it. The kids were testing and I was sitting at a desk correcting papers, when...ping, ping, ping. Then, five minutes later...ping, ping, ping. Just the tiniest little ... tappies. I was inward grin from ear to ear.
By the way, I'm due June 26.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Awww! Enjoy the cute little pinging before it becomes painful bashing in the bladder when you're trying to go.
I am at the RAVENOUS stage. I just finished an afternoon snack-- potato and cheese omelet flavored with rosemary, topped with ketchup and sour cream. Luckily, the rest of the family was hungry too, so I just made it for all of us and didn't feel as guilty about eating all the time. Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
My sister in Oregon gives birth tomorrow! She and I had similar due dates. She gives birth very quickly, and the hospital is a half-hour away. Thus, they are inducing her so that she doesn't give birth at home or on the roadside somewhere. Also, her baby is estimated to be pretty darn big (a plus for the induction, not a reason for it.)
I am excited for her!
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
What is normal procedure for checkups in the third trimester? What should my doctor be doing? My mom seems worried that my doctor didn't listen to the heartbeat or measure my stomach at the last two visits, but then, the last baby she had was thirteen years ago. Things definitely may have changed since then, medical-practice-wise.
Posted by theCrowsWife (Member # 8302) on :
My doctor (actually a nurse midwife) measured my belly at every visit. I'm pretty sure that she checked the heartbeat as well, but my memories of the last month are pretty hazy. I've only had one child, so I don't know how normal her practices were.
--Mel
[EDIT: This was only a little over a year ago.]
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
Seems normal to me, Mel - my midwife measured my belly at every visit, as soon as I started showing, and listened to the heartbeat every time too. (Actually by the time I got to about 8 1/2 months she stopped measuring my belly, but still listened to the heartbeat.) Even when I'd had a sonogram right before I saw the midwife, she still listened to the heartbeat. All 4 kids, 3 different midwives.
I wonder why yours isn't doing it, Brinestone? Perhaps if the baby's moving normally, your doctor feels it's obviously healthy? Still seems a little strange....
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
This doctor measures every time, and always listens to the heartbeat. My last doctor did. The doctor before that, whom I disliked intensely and transferred out of the practice of in my third trimester, did not.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Brinestone, what does he do? Do you feel that your appointments are unreasonably short, and he's rushing on to the next patient?
Or is he just using other methods to assess your (plural ) well-being?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:Do you feel that your appointments are unreasonably short, and he's rushing on to the next patient?
That's how I felt-- he never spent more than 2 minutes with me. And he brushed off my questions.
When I figured out that I didn't want to go to my appointments any more and I DEFINITELY did not want him delivering my baby, I switched. And got lucky and found a good doctor who would take me in my third trimester.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Rivka, maybe. The last visit went like this:
1. I left a urine sample. 2. The nurse took my blood pressure. 3. The nurse gave me the RhoGAM shot. 4. The doctor came in and told my my iron levels were low again and advised me to start taking two iron pills a day instead of one. 5. She asked me if I was still feeling sick. I said I was. She said that this flu has taken many people six weeks to get over. I had had it for five weeks. She said to stick it out and try using a decongestant to unplug my ear. I told her that decongestants make me so sick that I cannot work during the day or sleep at night, so I'd rather have the plugged ear, thank you very much. She suggested taking it on Saturday where I could afford to feel sick all day. 6. She asked me if I'd signed up for childbirth classes yet. I said no. She said I should do so as soon as possible or they'd fill up.
That was it. Now I'm starting to feel concerned. . . . She really didn't do anything to assess the health of the baby the whole time.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
That's not quite true. I suspect she (and the nurse) did observe you. They checked your sample. And surely they weighed you? And it sounds like right now the main concern is getting you feeling better.
However, if you feel that she is not hands-on enough for your comfort level, that is certainly an issue. (And something you might consider discussing with her.) Combined with the difficulties you were having with getting them to call you back when you were sick . . . well, maybe it is time to consider changing doctors. But if that is something you are going to do, sooner is better.
*hug*
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
I don't know what is normal and what is not.
But did the doctor touch you at all? Poke your belly? Use a stethoscope on you at all? He can get a lot of information quickly and without pulling out measuring tape or a baby heartsounds doppler. He may have a lot more info than you think he does.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I'm not saying that I was worried she wasn't hands-on enough. I'm saying that my mom is worried about it. She asked me if my doctor said the baby was the right size for this point in my pregnancy, and I said I didn't know. My mom was like, "She didn't measure your belly?"
Since this is my first pregnancy, I don't know what's normal. I don't know what should be happening. I didn't personally feel uncomfortable with the last visit, but then, I don't know what a visit is supposed to feel like.
Theaca, she didn't touch me at all that I remember. She did ask if I was feeling the baby kick a lot, and I said yes. I assumed that she thought that if the baby was kicking frequently, he was probably doing all right. Also, she probably was thinking that if something wasn't all right, I'd know a lot sooner than she would.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Why don't you ask your doctor at the next visit how she is assessing the baby's size and health? Then you will know why she does or doesn't do stuff-- and if you're not satisfied, you can switch.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
It is routine (AFAIK) to check the heartbeat every visit, and to measure the uterus in the third trimester. But it might differ from doctor to doctor.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
Today's visit: 4 weeks to go to due date. No dilation. No induction date set yet. We will have to play it by ear, week by week.
I had lots of contractions (10 in an hour) Sunday night. I was dehydrated after having the stomach flu. They finally went away after I drank about 4 large glasses of water.
I am pretty much done with the gym. I just can't keep getting up early to go before work. I need the sleep too much. Everything is packed and ready to go. The only thing we still need to do is install the car seat.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
We just got the base for the new infant seat installed. LATCH is so wonderful. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Only 4 weeks!
You must be getting very excited. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm getting to the "I must mop the floor RIGHT NOW!!!" stage.
Which my husband vastly prefers to the "I'm too sick and tired and sore to move, much less clean" stage. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Ouch. I got a blister on my left palm from over-vigorous mopping. Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I think I must have missed that stage, but I did reorganize the second bedroom to make room for the baby last Saturday, and today we're putting the crib and changing table in there. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Last time it didn't happen until two nights before I started getting contractions.
To be fair, our floors really needed a mopping, which is why it might have started earlier? But also, my hormone levels may be wonky right now, because every time Emma cries, or another baby cries, or I get up in the morning, or I see a picture of a baby, I end up with sore, colostrum-filled breasts. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I was reading a book on pregnancy (not pregnant! just.. curious. ) and it said that the whole burst of energy thing is very common just before women go into labour.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
KQ, how close are you to due date?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Um, very far. I'm at about 28 weeks.
I also couldn't sleep until 3 last night, then woke up at 7 with an irresistable urge to make pancakes, of all things. I don't eat in the morning, generally. And I am not a huge pancake fan. After resisting for 45 minutes, I got up and made my husband breakfast in bed.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
You'll be ok.
*hugs*
Maybe it's just your body going "Wahey, I'm not sick anymore!".
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm hoping.
To be fair (and feel a little better), this pregnancy has been very different from the last one, symptom-wise. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Do you find that freaky?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
No; every pregnancy has some things the same and some different, from what I've heard. My mom had four of us and had some symptoms stay the same each time but some only occured in one or varied widely each time, and all of us were born healthy, none of us more than 10 days before due, so I'm not too worried.
I mean, as long as I don't go into labor in the next few days. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(Pregnancy is kind of a time of worry.)
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I'm sure you won't.
(I just sent an email to you...)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Wrote you back. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
quote:Has anyone heard from Miriya?
space opera
I'm back. I had baby Peep on Christmas eve. Everything went very well. I will have to post more detail tomorrow as the squirming little nurser on my lap isn't co-operating with my typing!
Congratulations Space Opera and Beverly on your new arrivals!
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Thanks! Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
KQ, I had months and months of nesting ... because so much needed to be done each time. As soon as I was over the Can't Move Because I'm Too Tired and Sick phase, I went into the cleaning - organizing - nesting phase, and it lasted until baby came. Every time. Well, except for #4, when I ended up with pneumonia so I went back into Too Sick to Move phase for the last several weeks. A lot just didn't get done for her.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
KQ, all your other symptoms have come early and with a vengeance. Why not this one? Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
bev, I also lost my appetite today. Completely. And then, well, I was having this mysterious lower back pain. It kept coming and going...
Talked to my mom, who made me take my terbutaline for the first time in weeks.
Whaddaya know, the "back pain" went away and didn't come back. Oops, almost missed that one.
Guess I'm glad I have an appointment on Tuesday. I have a lot to talk to my doctor about, it seems.
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
Um, does that mean labour? Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, I was feeling contractions in my back. They stopped with the terbutaline, and haven't come back so far. I can take it as often as every 4 hours if needed. The time to worry is if they come back and the terbutaline doesn't stop them. I'm not having any discharge or anything, so I'm not too worried. But I'll definitely be talking to my doc about it, and this probably means another cervical check. >_< Hate those.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I ended up feeling the pain again and having to take more at 3 in the morning. And I only slept 4 hours again last night.
My back is starting to hurt again, I'm waiting to see if it's the same thing or just ordinary back ache.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Oh no... let's keep that baby in there! I'm sure Mrs. M would agree that preemies this early along are good to postpone.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Take care of yourself and Bridget, kq!
I think I've decided to change doctors. I keep not wanting to, but it seems every time I go I leave confused or angry or both. I don't want this doctor delivering my baby; I don't feel comfortable around her.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
That is exactly why I changed mine. I realized I didn't feel comfortable with the doctor I had delivering my baby. And I did not regret it once once I switched. (((hugs)))
Make sure you do what I did, and explain to the new doctor why you are switching. My new doctor discussed what exactly had made me uncomfortable, what I would like him to do to make me more comfortable, and how he could avoid me feeling that way with him. It was wonderful, and he remembered my concerns and addressed them, and made sure I was treated the way I wanted to be at every visit. Communication is wonderful.
The terbutaline is still stopping the contractions. As long as it keeps working, we're good, and I'll talk to my doctor tomorrow about what's going on. Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
Brinestone, where are you in Utah?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Brinestone: I think I've decided to change doctors. I keep not wanting to, but it seems every time I go I leave confused or angry or both. I don't want this doctor delivering my baby; I don't feel comfortable around her.
*hug* Better now than later.
Good luck finding a really good one! Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I'm in the Salt Lake Valley. Why? Do you know a good obstetrician?
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
Yes, I do. Would you like me to email you or would you rather I just put it here?
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
I need a really really good gyno in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Anyone know of any? *snort*
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
Sorry, can't help you. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*mutters* I don't like hot flashes. I don't like contractions. I don't like back pain. And I don't like the side effects of terbutaline. I REALLY don't like not sleeping more than 4 hours a day, with MAYBE a 1 hour nap if I'm lucky. *grumps*
Posted by Anna (Member # 2582) on :
I know a very good one in France, quid, but I doubt that's any help for you...
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
(((((kq)))))
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Either's fine. If you post it here, maybe someone else might benefit from the info. Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
South Valley Women's Health (801) 569-2626 3570 West 9000 South (just of Bangerter, it is at Jordan Valley Hospital) Suite 210 Dr Kathleen Langer or Dr John Nicols. I have seen both of them.
I know that at one point they didn't accept IHC insurance.
I do have a friend that saw another doctor there and she would recomend her. Dr Morland I don't know what her first name is.
If they are to far away or the wrong insurance I can ask family who they recomend.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Back from my appt.
Cervix is fine. The check was even MORE uncomfortable than usual because he also took a sample for a fetal fibronectin test. But he is going on the assumption right now that I'm just taking after my mom (who had contractions but not preterm labor with two of the four of us.) He expects a negative. In the meantime, he said let him know if it keeps happening and keep it up with the terbutaline as needed, taking it easy and drinking lots of water, and abstaining from intercourse. (My husband is not pleased.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, and we're into the two-week appointment phase now.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
I never got to the once-a-week appointment phase. Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
Funny, I was at the once-a-week appointment phase pretty early. Like 28 weeks. Then twice a week at 33 weeks.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
kq - what a relief that your cervix is closed and the terbutaline is working. It's the one drug I was never on, but I hear it's pretty crummy. You can tell kpc that I was on pelvic rest (no intercourse) for 23 of my 26 weeks of pregnancy, so it could be worse.
Brinestone, I'm glad you're changing doctors - the things you wrote about your old one set my alarms off.
Mazel tov Miriya. I'd love to see pictures.
I saw my OB every day for the last 4 weeks of my pregnancy, but that's not a good thing. I'm having postpartum nesting - I have this compulsion to clean out our closets and attic. Of course, I also have mild OCD, so...
I have also completely lost my mind and am considering having another baby.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Whiskysunrise, what specifically did you like about those two doctors?
Posted by Theaca (Member # 8325) on :
Hey, kq, my SIL (due same week as kq) had her doctor visit yesterday too. And now is up to every two week visits now. Her pregnancy is going extremely well. No problems at all. And my brother is going to get at least a week of paternity leave when the baby comes. Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
Dr Langer is my doctor. She listened to my questions and answered them. When she was in the room with us she wasn't acting like she couldn't wait to get out and go on to the next patient. She would take time with us to help us understand what was going on. She has a very good bedside mannor. She rememred (or took good notes) things from my first pregnancy.
Dr Nicol delivered my first baby because Dr Langer was on maternity leave. He was nice. I didn't actually see him as much, but he was understanding and he also took the time to listen.
I never really thought about what I liked about them so hopefully that made some sence.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
My test came back negative. I'm not in labor.
I'm getting, as Imogen would say, "clucky". I set up the bassinet, which has been in storage in Emma's closet, today (didn't put the sheets on, but we're making a space for it, so might as well put it in its place and make more room in the closet, right?) I still can't stop cooing over it. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I'm glad you're not in labour.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Me, too. This means no bed rest, no constant medication, and I get to go to my cousin's wedding as long as nothing changes. Posted by pepperuda (Member # 1573) on :
Introducing..... dan ta da.....
Alexa Nicole!
In her first appearance in a role as something more than a blob:)
She was so adoreable. Waving her little arms and kicking her little feet. She is quite the squiggle worm. It was fascinating to see her spine and her stomach and kidneys and heart and brain and....ah, I love my baby. Really, though, I couldn't see how the doctor could tell that she is a girl. But, we have picture of that part and it definitely doesn't look like a boy either.
Anyway. Congratulations, kq, on not being in labor and good luck, Brinestone, with the new doctor.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Awww! Could you see the little fingers? I remember being amazed by Emma's little fingers being visible on her ultrasound. Posted by pepperuda (Member # 1573) on :
just once. She was... I don't know the word...fiddling with her hands up by her face at the first.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Awwww. Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
I had another appt yesterday. I was exactly 37 weeks. I am dilated to 1 cm, or at least I was yesterday. I am pretty sure the contractions that kept me up half the night last night had to have accomplished something.
Now I have to balance the fears. I have to think about "am I really in labor" vs. the fear of having an unplanned home or freeway birth. My last labor was 2 hrs 45 mins from first labor pain to birth. The hospital is 20 minutes away (assuming no traffic). There are closer hospitals in an emergency, but my doc delivers only at this one hospital.
Well, maybe next week I will be dilated enough that he will give us an induction date. We can always hope.
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
Mrs. M, is it dangerous for you to have another baby?
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Mama S., how exciting! Is there a minimum you have to be dilated before they'll admit you to the hospital?
kat, I'm extremely high risk. I'm going to talk to my OB - I have an appointment in March. It might be better than my last pregnancy because we know what to expect and can take precautions. I'll probably also see my perinatologist. We'll see.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Mama Squirrel, I hope that everything goes well for you and you have a safe birth. Just think--you're almost there!
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
Good luck, Mama Squirrel!
I had those same fears with every pregnancy. When my OB found me 3 cm dilated at an appointment with my 3rd, she said she was just going to admit me then. "This is your third; I don't want to send you home and then hear about you on the news having a baby on the bridge." I just walked out to the car, got my suitcase, and came back in and registered myself. It was kind of surreal. Let's see - that one took about 5 hours from the time of the OB check-up until the birth, and I was having no contractions when I got there. Posted by Miriya (Member # 7822) on :
quote: Really, though, I couldn't see how the doctor could tell that she is a girl. But, we have picture of that part and it definitely doesn't look like a boy either.
I was told during my ultrasound that either they see male genitalia or they don't. They're not much to see if it's a girl. That's why if they say it's a boy they're pretty sure but they make more mistakes if they say it's a girl. It's easier to say "look there it is" than "hmmm I don't see it"
Mind you if you have a picture then it sounds like they got a pretty good look
Mama Squirrel: Best of luck. You're almost there. You never know if your labour will be fast or not. My fourth was FAR FAR longer than my second and third. I could have made it to a hospital in the next province, not that I would have wanted to be in a car. I'd be nervous too though, hope you get your date.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
quote: Mama S., how exciting! Is there a minimum you have to be dilated before they'll admit you to the hospital?
Well, with Superstation I saw the doc at 40 weeks 4 days. I was 3 1/2 cm dilated and 80-90% effaced and still not in labor. I had him about 36 hours later just hours before my set induction. I think if the doc finds me at 3 cm next week he will set an immediate induction date. The doc just won't set an induction date until I am more dilated.
It is so close. It is scary and exciting at the same time. Pop thinks I am crazy because I am thinking about going natural on purpose this time (I didn't have a choice w/ Superstation). Although from what I have heard of inductions I probably won't. We will just have to see when the time comes.
Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
I was inducted with Claire. I really really wanted a natural birth. But after 12 hours of extremely painful back labor that wasn't dilating me at all, I gave in and took an epidural. Oh what a relief. I could still feel the pain, but at least I didn't feel like my mind was splintering.
I think next time I'll just ask for the epidural.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I really recommend some kind of pain control if you're being induced. Regular contractions:Pitocin-induced contractions::having blood drawn:slitting your wrist. At least they were for me. >_<
Posted by pepperuda (Member # 1573) on :
Phew! quite the painful analogy
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
That was the point. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
And I rather agree. Although I wouldn't have used just THAT analogy!
Part of the difference is that when you're induced, there is no walking around. You're stuck in bed from beginning to end. Which means a number of comfort measures (walking, hot shower) are out.
Then again, I hated being induced and fought it ever happening again. (I would have agreed to it if I was convinced it was necessary, of course.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:You're stuck in bed from beginning to end. Which means a number of comfort measures (walking, hot shower) are out.
That, and if your water breaks/is broken and you have to pee, they make you have a catheter. At least, they did with me. >_<
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I know this makes me weird, but I never minded a catheter when I was in labor. It was one less thing to worry about.
I'm pretty sure I would have minded if I were not in labor, though.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Since they inserted it before I was really feeling contractions, it ticked me off big-time. Especially since the nurse missed the first time, and when it was removed it burned to go the first three or four times.
(But yeah, once I was actively feeling contractions I could have cared less about the catheter. Until it was over.)
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Ugh. The mere mention of a catheter brings back memories of pre-term labor, rolling over in bed, and praying that I wouldn't accidently pull on the tube.
Boy Opera thought the bag of pee was neat, though.
space opera
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Goodness he's been active today. I wonder if it was something I ate. . . .
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
When are you due, Brinestone?
It must be soonish, right?
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
April 2, so I have about seven weeks to go.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Oh - for some I reason I thought it was sooner.
Not that 7 weeks isn't quite soon! (Wow. In 2 months, all things being equal, you'll have a brand new baby son! )
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*dumps can of cream-style corn in bowl and heats in microwave*
*stirs in cheese*
*looks at clock*
*shrugs*
*eats corn and cheese*
Late night cravings. Gotta love 'em.
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
ewww.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Wait, what's wrong with corn and cheese? I didn't even put ketchup in it!
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
Yeah, I gotta agree. Even I would eat that.
Although I'm really starting to crave mac 'n cheese. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I actually thought of mac and cheese. But it was too much work. This is much easier early in the morning/late at night.
Plus, less calories.
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
It looks like tomorrow's going to be spent almost entirely at the in-laws, which means no cooking for me (yay!) and really good food (yay yay!!) but I'm still craving Kentucky Fried Chicken, poutine, and mac 'n cheese.
*sigh*
How's your pregnancy going these days?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Mmmm... Poutine... We can't get that here, I have to use Emeril's recipe if I want it.
Obviously, I'm insomniacing. Of course, it's not so much "insomnia" as I sleep for 4-5 hours at a time, can't sleep for another 3-5, sleep about 2-4, and then can't sleep for 3-5 again. Lather, rinse, repeat. It makes for a very odd schedule, especially as during the day I can only sleep as much as Emma will let me unless Jeff is home. Contractions are holding fairly steady at 2 or 3 an hour, sometimes strong enough to rouse me when asleep, but not going hyper-crazy-mad again so far. My back was spasming today, but it's pretty much stopped now. Appetite is up, stomach size is down, so I'm constantly hungry. Swelling is staying down as long as I drink a LOT of water; we're having to replace the Brita filter more often because I'm refilling it 5 or 6 times in a day. I was well enough for church for the first time in almost 2 months last weekend, although I couldn't stay the whole three hours.
More than you wanted to know, I'm sure. Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
Nope, it's fine.
So, not great, but not terrible either. Joy. Sounds like me, only I don't have pregnancy for an excuse.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm starting to count days. Let's see, 68 left until my approx. due date (the earliest I've been given); 23 until my cousin's wedding; 48 until Emma's birthday. *sigh* I'm so ready for this to be over... I guess I'll focus on the wedding first, then Em's birthday, and then I'll only have 20 days left to go. And maybe if things are going the way I expect they will be, I can convince my doctor to go ahead and do the induction a few days early (he said "any time the week of your due date", but I think he was thinking of counting the week starting with that day. Maybe I can convince him that it'll be fine to just go ahead and induce me a few days before.)
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
Anyone heard from Mama Squirrel? *sending good vibes*
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
We see doc this morning, and maybe Mama will be far enough along for an induction date to be set. I'd think so, since it's only two weeks until the due date, but I guess it depends. Last week's Thursday appointment only had her at 1cm, but she had a few hours of activity that night, so maybe she's "readier" now.
Anyway, we'll let you all know. Things are still all good, though.
--Pop
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Um, so if I called my new doctor and possibly told the receptionist that I'm 37 weeks pregnant (I'm 33, so I have 7 weeks left, which may have gotten mixed up), should I call back and make sure they know that 33 is the magic number?
I'm all paranoid I made them panic or something. But if I did tell them 33, I could very possibly look like an idiot. Well, looking like an idiot may be unavoidable now, come to think of it.
Posted by Anna (Member # 2582) on :
Call. I guess it's best to be sure.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Actually, I'd wait till your next appointment (assuming it's soon) and then just let your doctor know then.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
My next appointment is a week from tomorrow.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
Well, all that "activity" that Pop mentioned didn't do as much as we had hoped. I went from 1 cm to 1 1/2 cm dilated. Not much of a change. Last week the doc didn't say anything about effacement. This week I am 50% effaced. So at least that is good. He still wouldn't set the induction date. He says I have to be at least 2 cm before he will set a date. Officially two weeks to go. The doc doesn't think I will make it to my due date (of course, he didn't think I would last time and I went 5 days late), but he does think I will make it one more week. We will see him again next Thursday.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Brinestone, I'd call and let them know you may have made a mistake. Most likely only part of the office will know, and you can apologize and put it down to "pregnant brain". Don't worry about appearing dumb, it's better to let them know in advance what to expect.
Mama, I sympathize. (((hugs))) Hang in there!
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Wow, having Aerin really skewed my view of pregnancy. I was 3 cm at 22 weeks (which they stopped) and I was about 5 when Aerin was born at 26 weeks. Anything past 32 weeks seems like term to me.
Brinestone, you won't look like an idiot at all. When I moved back to Richmond and made an appt. with my old OB, I forgot to tell them I was pregnant and I had to call back. They were very understanding and didn't even laugh at me (within my hearing at least).
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
*laughs*
So I called and got the same receptionist I spoke with two days ago. She thinks I did say 37 weeks because she remembered the call and remembered being shocked to think I was only three weeks away from delivery. She said it was very considerate of me to call and let them know.
Phew.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Probably the best idea. I was thinking if your appointment was in a day or so it wouldn't matter - but for a week, best to let them know.
And I'm trying not to laugh at Mrs M's story.
Actually, the sad thing is that's the sort of thing I do - and I don't even have the pregnant brain excuse!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I'm sort of surprised that some of y'all WANT to be induced.
I hated induction, and would do almost anything (except put myself or any child of mine in danger) to avoid ever experiencing it again.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, my doctor and I are pretty sure that I'm going to have to be induced again no matter what. So I'd rather get the pregnancy over with as soon as possible instead of waiting another week. (And my experience wasn't that bad once I got the medication. Since I've been promised the medication as soon as I want it this time, I am pretty sure it'll be an even better experience. )
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
I was induced with my first, not with my second. They were both painful.
As to being induced again, I wouldn't have a problem with it.
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
My induction wasn't a bad experience either, but then again, I didn't need pitocin.
Hang in there, Mama and KQ.
Brinestone, pregnancy brain only turns into mama brain. *giggle* I've had many of those moments!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Christy: My induction wasn't a bad experience either, but then again, I didn't need pitocin.
That doesn't count. Posted by sweetbaboo (Member # 8845) on :
I was induced with two of my three and would definately do it again (loved it, well loved the epidural most).
My SIL hated it her first time around and has since done the rest au naturel. I think it must depend upon the person.
*edit to say that I was induced with two because I had hellps syndrome with my first How I forgot that I don't know!
[ February 17, 2006, 12:43 PM: Message edited by: sweetbaboo ]
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
I am more scared of the unplanned home or car birth than I am of the induction. I figure I will at least be able to get an epidural with the induction. I was not prepared for the undrugged birth last time.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
The fact that the hospital is only six blocks from my home and place of employment is a very encouraging thought.
I could probably walk. Well, maybe not. Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Aaannnd . . . dkw makes her first appearance!
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I feel like I should start a "Prenancy thread: The next Generation." Most of you guys are nearing term or already delivered, no? I am rather tardy to fit in with this group.
Posted by Stray (Member # 4056) on :
dkw, did I miss a formal announcement to Hatrack that you're expecting, or are you just doing it all sneaky-like here?
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
You must have missed it. (I bumped a thread from before the wedding where Dan was taking bets on birthdates. Might have been too subtle.)
Also the pregnancy pun smackdown, but I guess Bob never specifically identified that one as an announcement thread either.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, you were being waaay too subtle for women with pregnant brain! Congratulations!
Posted by pepperuda (Member # 1573) on :
Congratulations,dkw. I'm not due until June, so there is still a good four months to go here.
But, I have bad pregnant brain. My mom says I've always been a bit spacey, so this poses a problem. I smeared make-up all over the front of a dress the other day because I forgot I had it in my hand and started rubbing my tummy. Sigh.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Mama Squirrel: I am more scared of the unplanned home or car birth than I am of the induction. I figure I will at least be able to get an epidural with the induction. I was not prepared for the undrugged birth last time.
That makes sense. I've never had that issue -- my short labor still took 3 hours from arrival at the hospital.
And I prefer to be undrugged, when I could manage it (which was that same labor).
*shrug* Diff'rent strokes and all that. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
My mom's shortest labor took 18 minutes from her arrival at the hospital...
They handed my oldest sister, 3 at the time, to the neighbor from across the street through the car window. Otherwise, either she would have come with them or they wouldn't have made it.
My sisters' dad's car also got towed because they rushed in so fast he forgot to move it from the no parking zone.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
quote: My sisters' dad's car also got towed because they rushed in so fast he forgot to move it from the no parking zone.
I can totally see this happening to us if I go into labor naturally before the induction happens.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
It makes for a funny story now. They did not appreciate the $185 (in 1973 dollars) fine at the time.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm getting all cry-y. Well, cry-ier. Today Emma brought me a bowl and said, "Emma hungry." She then did her routine where she leads me to the refrigerator, says "No" to everything in it, and then says "Yeah" to four things the second time around, but doesn't really want any of them, and says no to my other suggestions as well. Finally, I shut the fridge and walked out of the kitchen, saying, "Tell me when you decide what you want." My back hurt, and I wasn't going to stand there wasting electricity all day because she wanted her father to come home and feed her or something. She threw down her bowl, started wailing, and yelled, "Mama bad! Mama bad bad!"
Normally, that would not faze me. I broke down and cried. Stupid hormones.
But later she brought me a box of cereal and kissed me and said, "Pleh?" ("Please?") She also insisted on feeding me some when I gave it to her. And later still she wanted to see the baby (indicated by patting my tummy and tugging at my shirt and saying, "Baby?") and kissed my tummy several times. Then she tried to play peek-a-boo with my tummy. Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Congrats dkw! So very exciting!
space opera
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Okay, my mommy brain is kicking in full gear. We need to start picking up all the stuff that the baby will need when he gets here. I started browsing today, but I can't find a place that has a good list of absolute need-to-buys for baby. I figure those of you who have done it before can give me some advice about which items I need and which I can do without, as well as how many to buy of each.
So far we have:
-1 crib -1 changing table -1 baby swing -1 "jolly jumper" (It attaches to the door frame, and baby bounces in it. My siblings and I loved ours as children, so my mom got me one.) -1 pajama-like outfit -1 "nicer" outfit -1 kind of fancy blanket to bless him in -1 baby bathtub -2 toys -1 crib sheet -1 baby first aid kit, minus the thermometer -Jon Boy's sister is also making all the bedding for the crib (she is very talented).
Here's what I have so far on the "needs" list:
-1 car seat/carrier (Do most car seats have a handle to use as a carrier, or is this a special feature?) -1 stroller -Clothing: 7+ everyday outfits (will this be enough?), 3 pajamas, 1 church outfit, 1 coat, 10 pairs of socks, 5–7 onesies -5 burp rags (enough?) -1 crib mattress -3 receiving blankets (enough?) -1 baby towel -baby powder, baby soap, and baby shampoo -2 bottles (I will be breastfeeding, but if I have to pump or leave him with Jon Boy, I will need some. Will two be enough?) -2 other comfy blankets -diapers -1 rectal thermometer -diaper bag (what should go in this?) -wipes
I would also like (but don't necessarily need):
-1 rocking chair -One of those carrier sling things (Snugli?) -A little bouncer chair thingy where he can sit (should this be in the needs category?)
I'm sure I'm forgetting something big. Are my estimated amounts going to be enough? Too many?
I think we will buy things like a high chair and baby dishes later because we don't have room to store them now and he won't need them right away.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
How often do you plan to do laundry?
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I honestly don't know how often it's normal to have to do baby-related laundry.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Here's another list. (For more, google "layette checklist")
I don't think it's a question of "normal" as much as if you don't do it as often you need more stuff. Also, if the kid spits up, will you wipe it off the front of his shirt/onesie, or immediately change his clothes?
Oooo . . . this one must be from a more northernly climate -- it includes a snowsuit if your baby is born in the fall or winter.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Hm. I can see that if the baby habitually gets his sheets dirty, you'll need more than one crib sheet, but really, does anyone need six?
Same with baby towels. Do you need four? How often am I going to be giving my baby a full bath anyway? And unless he pees on the towel (which is possible), how dirty is it going to get?
There's also this disconnect that I see as to how many cloth diapers to buy (still not sure what we're doing here). I mean, they suggest you buy 10-12 disposables per day, but they suggest you buy 3-4 dozen cloth. I imagine that I will not want to wait two to four days to wash dirty diapers; I will want to do a load every day. Why on earth would I need that many?
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
You'll need more than one crib sheet in any case -- if the baby barfs or the diaper explodes in the middle of the night you want to be able to whip that sheet off and put the kid back to bed, not keep him up while you wash the sheet.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Um. How do I put this?
All the things that seem obvious now -- that you would never go several days without washing diapers, for instance -- will likely look very different when you actually have an infant. Who will not sleep through the night, or even on any predictable schedule, for quite some time.
Washing diapers 2-3 times a week, especially at first, is realistic. For most people, washing them every day simply is NOT.
And I would strongly recommend a diaper service for the first month -- if at all possible (and it may not be -- this is the only one I can find in your area).
Towels and sheets. Well, 2-3 is probably enough . . . generally. But once in a while you will be very glad that you have more.
Similarly baby clothes. I'm a big fan of the easy access nightgown-style things (they used to have drawstrings, now they usually have elastic). I think they call 'em "saques" or some such yuppy-ized name. A dozen of those (or at least half a dozen) will make your life ever so much easier for the first few months.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
These. And the more common name is "baby kimono" -- I had forgotten! (We just called 'em "baby sacks." )
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Though it isn't on your list, brinestone i can almost garuntee a baby hat like I've sent to three or four jatraquero babys recently.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
We had a squirmer, and the elastic couldn't hold 'er. We preferred sleep and plays (those pajama-type things.) But either way, get a LOT. Lots and lots. And some onesies in case of an unseasonable warm spell or a baby who needs to be wearing less to nurse but gets chilly if completely undressed.
Whatever else you put in the diaper bag, include some gallon-size ziplock-style freezer bags. I guarantee they won't go unused, whether it's for an outfit explosion containment (always have at least two extra outfits, more if you'll be gone all day) or containing a diaper in a friend's house (it's considered polite to seal disposables in a bag-- double bag if very stinky-- and put them in the OUTSIDE trash, or take them home, unless they've got a baby and diaper pail of their own, and if you're using cloth, you may very well need to seal them in something more than a regular waterproof bag if baby gets a virus or something.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, and you'll want more burp rags. Actually, it doesn't have to be a burp rag. Cloth diapers or clean towels both work very well. Many stores carry huge packages of, like, 50 "around the house" small white towels for a few dollars. (I know Target has them in the section right by the automotive stuff and/or the cleaning stuff.) Wash them and you're good to go on burp rags. Oh! Detergent. You don't need to use Dreft. Really, you don't. Even our extra-sensitive-to-everything daughter was and is fine with a liquid detergent that's free of additives and perfumes (we use All Free & Clear); use 1/2- 3/4 the recommended amount and run it through an extra rinse if your baby is sensitive.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(And I totally agree on more sheets. Also, some washcloths and towels. (More than one towel!) And whatever you intend to wash baby's skin and hair with. We use Dove soap or liquid body wash, same as I use on myself, and started with baby shampoo but found that the only way to control cradle cap in our eczemous daughter was with dandruff shampoo.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
And baby powder is not recommended by most pediatricians/nurse practitioners I've spoken to. Not only can it irritate skin, baby can aspirate it if you're not very careful. Patting with a clean, dry cloth or towel (again, cloth diapers work really well) is the recommended way to dry the bottom.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Cornstarch baby powder is generally ok (as aspiration is unlikely to be harmful, unlike talc).
At least, so say my pediatricians and several baby books. But yeah, talc baby powder is bad.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: You don't need to use Dreft. Really, you don't.
Which is good, as that stuff doesn't actually get much of anything CLEAN. For most babies, any detergent will do as long as the clothes go through a second rinse. (Which I prefer to do for all laundry anyway.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, that's right, I forgot about the distinction. But I find it's a pain in the bottom, anyway.
Oh! And if you're breastfeeding, you're gonna need some lanolin cream (or an alternative if you're allergic.) I found that a store-brand pure lanolin actually worked best for me, but some people just swear by Lanisoh. Nursing pads are a good idea, too. I like washable; much comfier than disposable. And nursing bras, if you're not wearing them already, and nursing tops are a help, although you can get by with button-up tops or oversized t-shirts. (Emma started pulling the blanket I used to cover up off at the precocious age of 1 1/2 months. I switched to nursing tops, which leave you less exposed.)
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Not everyone needs lanolin cream. I never did.
But nursing pads are a must, at least for the first couple months. (After that, leakage becomes much less common.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I guess that's true; I just come from a family of dry-skinned, hyper-lactating women, and we get chapped very easily. But you might want it if you're pregnant and already starting to get chapped nipples (chapping starts for me about the time the colostrum comes in. >_< )
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Asking one's mother if she needed lanolin (or was allergic) is often advised -- and for good reason. While no guarantee, it is a good predictor.
Posted by TheTick (Member # 2883) on :
quote:Originally posted by dkw: You'll need more than one crib sheet in any case -- if the baby barfs or the diaper explodes in the middle of the night you want to be able to whip that sheet off and put the kid back to bed, not keep him up while you wash the sheet.
Dana speaks the truth. There will be nights when the kid gets the back door trots or barfs 3 times when you'll be glad you had extra sheets. Now, only get one set that is pretty and matches the cute little curtains and changing pad cover and the quilt that is hanging on the wall, the rest can be just plain ol' sheets.
We never used baby powder. Thomas got pretty bad eczema last year, but has avoided it this year since we switched to Dove soap.
You are permitted to smack anyone upside the head that gives you infant clothes that do not snap or otherwise open at the bottom, it works best if you smack them with the offending garment.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I had no idea, dkw! Congratulations!!!!! We need a roster thread just to keep things straight.
I'm going to go do an inventory of Aerin's stuff and post it. Off the top of my head - binkies (aka pacifiers). I have them all over my house. I use Soothies, which are the clear rubber ones they use at the hospitals.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Thank you so much, guys! I don't want to spend money on things we won't actually use, but I also don't want to find myself in a bind because I need three times as many of something as we have.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, I forgot-- if you're using bottles at all, a bottle and nipple brush is a must. Even if you plan to run them through the dishwasher, you need to remove most of the gunk beforehand. (2 or 3 should be fine if you plan on just the occasional bottle. You'll need more if you plan to pump on a regular basis, but wait until after the baby is born so you can decide what kind will work best.)
And I hope the nipples are silicone-- the rubber ones won't hold up to the dishwasher very long.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
The silicone ones also seem to taste better to most babies (in that they have no taste, while the rubber ones do).
IME, the most "breast-like" combination was the Munchkin nipples (which have apparently been discontinued in favor of their "tri-flow" ones) with a Playtex bottle-liner system. Even my exceedingly picky middle child would take that combination.
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Brinestone, I would definately get a sling, but not a snuggly-style one. How about a pouch carrier, such as one from Hotslings or Kangaroo Korner ? I've got one of each and they're great. You can use them with a child up to 35 pounds.
space opera
edit: Also, if you'll be using cloth diapers while out, you'll want a wet bag for your diaper bag. And, if you want to save a bit of money, you can do without a baby bathtub. We did sponge baths on towels with SSB for the first several weeks, then just laid him on a towel in the bottom of the bathtub with a tiny bit of water.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Space Opera: Brinestone, I would definitely get a sling, but not a snuggly-style one.
While I would do exactly the opposite. I always found Snuglies much easier to deal with than slings.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I would try them all out and see what you like.
Emma would only take Avent nipples (both for bottles and pacifiers) and rejected nipples of all types other than mine completely at 2 1/2 months.
Luckily, she started taking a cup right before 4 months.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Well, the bathtub was a gift from a friend, so it didn't cost us anything. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh! No one has mentioned diaper pail (or other container, depending on the type you're using.)
And for a lot of that stuff you need to get, see if there's a Once Upon a Child or other children's resale store near you. No good for car seats, of course, which are just as expensive as anywhere else, and mattresses tend to be available for cheaper as well, but a lot of other things, you may find a discount on. Especially clothes!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I have an appointment this afternoon. Cross your fingers for me to get approved to take the train to Flagstaff for my cousin's wedding in three weeks!
(My contractions have been holding steady at 2-3 an hour and a lot less painful with no medication for the past couple of weeks. I think this means I get to go!)
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
[/qb][/QUOTE]While I would do exactly the opposite. I always found Snuglies much easier to deal with than slings. [/QB][/QUOTE]
Yep, Rivka, I probably shouldn't have used the word "sling." That's why I like pouches - you just plop the kid in and go.
space opera
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
What'd the doctor say, kq?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, yeah, forgot to post about it-- we came home and had dinner right away.
A-okay for the trip. And our, ahem, least-favorite restriction is lifted. (Cautiously. But that's good enough for us, we won't overdo it!)
He thinks all those icky viruses may have been triggering my contractions, and now that they're cleared up, they're slowing down.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I've been wondering too, kq.
Brinestone, I am going to list all the baby things that I have. Before you read it, keep in mind that I am so neurotic that even my pediatrician teases me. They used to call me Mrs. Monk at the Y. Having a micropreemie didn't help matters any, either. Okay, here goes.
-Night Light. Any kind will do. I have a pink tulip lamp that I use.
-Diaper Rash Cream. I've found that Triple Paste works best for Aerin and I use A&D as a preventative. She's only ever gotten 1 diaper rash and that was 2 months ago. I do know some people who swear by Desitin or Balmex. Every baby's skin is different, so you might have to try a few different things before you find what works.
-Sheets and Towels. I have a two-week supply of each (14 sheets, 20 washcloths, 4 towels, 2 robes, 2 terry sleepers). I change Aerin's bedding every day and I wash her towels after every bath (she gets one twice a week). I use 4 washcloths for each bath.
-Rocking Chair. I consider this a necessity. Aerin loves to be rocked and it calms her right down. I rock her to sleep every night. I prefer rockers to gliders, but gliders seem to be much more popular these days.
-Receiving Blankets. I have around 2 dozen. We use them as burp cloths, too.
-Stroller Blankets. You might want to cover the baby if it's chilly out. I have about a dozen fleece blankets and some satin ones.
-Dreft. I use it exclusively for Aerin's clothes. One of Aerin's NICU neighbors got a horrible rash when her mother accidentally did a load with their regular detergent and that was enough to keep me using Dreft. Their stain spray is fantastic, btw. I'm not saying that your baby will get a rash if you don't use Dreft, I just don't feel comfortable using anything else. I also use perfume-free, dye-free dryer sheets.
-Clothes. I am not the one to ask about clothes. Aerin's wardrobe is so full that even I'm embarrassed (she has 3 pink dress coats). She can go through several outfits in one day because of her reflux, so you might want to keep a bigger supply on hand.
I'll think about it more and post anything that comes to mind.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
kq, I'm glad to hear it! Contractions slowing down is always a good thing (except during labor w/ a term baby).
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
Well, I had more painful contractions that kept me up most of the night last night. They are back to being painless BH contractions now. I have moved my appt from tomorrow to this afternoon. Hopefully I am dilated enough to get an induction date now. The only days I can be induced (when the doc sees patients near the hospital I am supposed to deliver at) are Mondays and Thursdays. I don't really want to wait until Monday. If I am dilated a lot more than last week I will worry all weekend about going into labor before being induced. Here's to hoping I am at least 2 cm!
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
I made a thread specifically for this, but I thought I would post it here too. I am being induced tomorrow! Yay!!!
I am sure Pop will post the news when he gets home.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Best of luck!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Good luck!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I've just spent some of our tax refund on new nursing bras (to be worn starting as soon as I get them!) I got two "Easy Bras" by Mamajamas, which are supposed to be great for lounging and sleeping, the things I do most, two of the "Nursing Bra Plus" from Bravado (since rivka so highly recommended it and it got such rave reviews-- plus I found it on sale for $28.95, free shipping), and one of the "Supreme Nursing Bra" from Bravado, which is supposed to be a little dressier and look good under nice clothes, although I wasn't sure on the size, so I may have to send it back for an exchange once I try it on. (It was also on sale and free shipping. And I got free shipping on the Easy Bras, too.)
I hate that bras are so expensive, though. I tend to buy "bargain bras" for my regular bras, but you have to pay "real bra" prices for nursing bras. (Which is okay, since they also tend to be "real bra" quality, I guess, and I expect to use them whenever they fit me, every time I get pregnant or have a baby.)
Posted by Anna (Member # 2582) on :
quote: I tend to buy "bargain bras" for my regular bras
Of course it depends on the size of your breasts, but you may want to reconsider that : if they are not maintained well enough, you could have back problems.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*laughs* I've had back problems since I was 7. I buy ones that feel comfortable to me, they just tend to wear out faster is all. I NEVER wear underwires, can't stand them.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Ow. I'm tired of being pregnant and hurting all the time.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm sorry. Me, too.
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
You know, I had a pregnant voice teacher once, and we were talking about stuff like this. I mentioned that I am so scared of going into labor and actually delivering a baby that once I'm pregnant I'm just going to want the baby to stay in there. She laughed and said something like, "Dear, when you're *this* pregnant all you want is for it to be over." I think it's like that on purpose. Otherwise, who would ever be ready to go through something as traumatizing as giving birth? Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I believe something very similar.
Five weeks to go*.
*Give or take 2 weeks, just for rivka.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Jenny, you are right on the money. With every pregnancy I got to the point that I was willing to go through ANYTHING to get that baby out!
Except for this last pregnancy. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I just got a very pretty dress to wear to my cousin's wedding because the only things I have that fit and are dressy enough (read: not a t-shirt) are not fit for early March in Flagstaff. It was a good deal, though-- I love ebay.
Now I'm just crossing my fingers that my bras come in time so I'm not stuck overnight on a train with an uncomfortable bra or no bra...
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Bridget apparently likes to dance all night. Even when there's no music playing.
That doesn't help my heartburn much. *grumbles*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Also, it's raining and winding.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Maybe I'll go make cinnamon biscuits or something for breakfast.
Or not. Because then I'd be tempted to eat them, and my heartburn is still acting up from dinner last night.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
If you were in Australia, you'd be right on our timezone!
(Insomnia, huh?)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, I've never been a good sleeper. It gets worse with pregnancy. And with rain. And with wind. And with baby dancing.
Add them all together...
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Even though Aerin is sleeping through the night - I'm not. I used to be such a sound sleeper, now I'm up almost every 2 hours.
Next Tuesday is my OB appt. to talk about Marx Baby #2. Can y'all believe I'm ready for another one?
I was talking about Hatrack babies to Andrew and he said, "How many babies are on your forum, anyway?" We really have had quite the baby boom.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
What does your OB think about trying again, Mrs M?
(Or will you find out at the appointment?)
Just make sure you look after yourself!
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
I hope it goes well.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Wow, you are a much braver woman than I. I am praying for the best for you and your family, whatever that may be, since I really can't know that, and happiness for you. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I got my new comfy loungy maternity/nursing bras. They are quite comfortable, although I'm a bit alarmed at how well they fit; they're the largest size the company makes, designed to fit band sizes 42-46 and cup sizes DD-F. I'm apparently at the top of that band size range; if I go up any more, they'll start digging in. Sheesh. Luckily, my band size does usually go back down a little after the birth; my cup size, of course, just keeps going up until a month or so post-partum. But they're made of 93% Tactel, 7% Lycra, so I think they can take a little cup expansion.
The next ones coming are slightly bigger. But these sure are comfy!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I got my dress for the wedding next week! But it's at my aunt's house, actually. So technically, I will get it tomorrow. But it's here in time! What a relief!
Now I'm hoping the tights and more supportive bras come through in time. *crosses fingers*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
My new dress makes me feel pretty.
Although it also made me realize how far out in the front I'm carrying this time! I look almost-not-pregnant in the dress when I look at myself straight on, but I turn sideways and look HUGE!
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
quote:Originally posted by Mrs.M: [We really have had quite the baby boom.
I made a special request about a year and a half ago for more babies. I like to think it is bearing fruition. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm starting to get very grumpy about my tummy. The baby seems to have dropped, and all of a sudden my stomach can hardly hold anything. And, of course, I'm hungry all the time! I just eat constantly.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I haven't experienced that at all. I am eating like crazy, and I have to keep myself from snacking on sweets and junk food all day long.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Is this your first?
Emma didn't drop until much later. It's common, from what I've heard, for second and subsequent babies to drop a lot earlier.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(I have gained so much more weight this time, though. I'm really trying to watch what I eat-- I still eat when I'm hungry, but try to go for healthier choices, and substitute for my cravings when I can, like we just got 36 fudgesicles because they were $1 a dozen at Albertson's and they're much lower in calories and higher in nutrition than ice cream-- because I don't want to end up with 20 extra pounds after the baby is born.)
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
What do you mean by "drop"? His head is down (or so says my OB), and I think his butt is about at the widest part of my stomach. He seems to be sticking it out quite a bit too, which is uncomfortable for me.
And I've gained a lot of weight too. I just hope I can get most of it off after the baby's born. Some I think I will keep forever due to widened hips and whatnot, but I think that good exercise and breastfeeding should help with the rest.
Posted by SenojRetep (Member # 8614) on :
Brinestone, dropping means (IIRC) the baby descends into the pelvis, prepartory to entering the birth canal. It usually happens in the last few weeks of pregnancy.
SenojYbab has dropped; my wife is stoic about it. More trips to the loo, more snacking. In our case it happened later (35 weeks) with this one than our first.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
It must have happened already. I'm almost 37 weeks along.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
Does anyone know where I can find inexpensive nursing tops?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Mama Squirrel, I got all mine as hand-me-downs. Know anyone who's not having any more kids? Try ebay as well. Unfortunately, new ones are pretty much all expensive. You can check sales at maternity/nursing stores.
If you know someone who knows how to sew, I found this: Elizabeth Lee Designs-- patterns for nursing mothers. This store has patterns from a variety of sources, including those, and has a "buy 6, get the lowest priced one free" deal. I say "know someone" because I, personally, would not be up to sewing with a newborn and two other kids. But if you are, more power to you.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Back from my OB appt. I've kept my weight gain down to 2 lbs. in the past 2 weeks! Yay! My total as of right now is actually only 27.5 lbs. gained, and while that's a leetle more than I'd like, I'm hopeful that since I only have 7 weeks or so to go, I'll be able to keep it within a few lbs. of 35 gained, which is the upper range-- I'm actually supposed to be between 25 and 30, but, you know, within 5 or 7 lbs. of that would make me happy, since I seem to have gotten off to a bad start.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, and we are doing an ultrasound next time I go in. It's so funny because for some women, it's the first, but this is my third this pregnancy... Last pregnancy I had eleven.
I'm trying to decide whether I really want a videotape of the ultrasound, or whether pictures are enough.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Why so many ultrasounds, kq?
Brinestone, you were so skinny to begin with I'm sure an extra pound or two (or five!) post pregnancy that you can't get off won't make much of a difference.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
This time, one to date the pregnancy (my first visit), one (the hi-res one) because the lab screwed up and didn't do the AFP, and one (this one) is routine to check for any problems with the placenta and see if the baby is lying the right way yet and such.
Last time, I had a ton because a) I had bleeding very early in the pregnancy and was coming in every week as long as it continued, and on bed rest in between, and b) later in the pregnancy, I kept fainting and falling down. Also, I switched doctors twice, and each doctor ordered a new ultrasound, I'm not quite sure why. Oh, and also, they were having trouble dating my pregnancy. (They still ended up getting it wrong.)
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Brinestone: It must have happened already. I'm almost 37 weeks along.
Not necessarily. Some first babies don't drop until labor has already begun.
quote:Originally posted by Mama Squirrel: Does anyone know where I can find inexpensive nursing tops?
Any particular reason you want "nursing tops" specifically? I found the couple I owned far more awkward than just wearing regular shirts. Tunic-y tops just pull up a bit and drape; button-ups undo a couple of the buttons (starting from the bottom! leave the top few closed). If coverage is insufficient, a receiving blanket (with or without a length of bias tape sewn along the edge so it can be worn bib-style) can help.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I love my nursing tops. Especially since Ems would not tolerate a blanket over her. At all.
quote:Not necessarily. Some first babies don't drop until labor has already begun.
...or not at all, as happened to my sister-in-law...
I had a horrible nightmare last week about the baby lying in a breech position and my doctor, my husband, and even my mom (all of whom I know, in real life, would respect my wishes and listen to me) refusing to listen when I said I wanted to try version and insisting that I should just give up and admit it was going to be a c-section. I keep dwelling on it.
If the baby is breech on the ultrasound in two weeks, when the doctor brings up the possibility of c-section, I'm going to bring up the possibility of version. And I know he'd listen if it came up. But I'll feel better when I can stop dwelling on this nightmare!
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
What is version?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
External version is where they basically push on the abdomen to try to turn the baby around. You can read a little about it here.
(Not that I really think the baby is lying breech, and we'd still have a little time even if she was. But you know how nightmares can get hold of you...)
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
Ok, KQ, in case you need it: my last was breech a week before the due date. I also had a horrible cough (turned out it was pneumonia) and I knew that I wouldn't be able to cough if I had a C-section, and I was terrified that I'd die from it.
So I prayed a lot and I tried two or three home remedies that have actually been known to work: I spent a lot of time laying upside down (propped the ironing board up against the sofa and lay with my head on the floor end and my feet on the sofa end). For ten minutes at a time, two or three times a day. I also kept a bag of frozen veggies against the top part of my abdomen to get the baby to turn away from it.
I don't know which worked, or maybe she would've turned anyway; although I don't remember any huge somersault, when I went back a week later she was in the right position. Not a day too soon - I was hospitalized that day for pneumonia and she was born just after midnight.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
That's awful, Jenna! I can't imagine being that sick during labor. And how sad to be so sick during the time when you want to be bonding with your baby. Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
Thanks. The worst part (well, no, the coughing was the worst part because it lasted for months) but the worst part of labor was that because of the pneumonia I couldn't have an epidural. I'd lived through it once before, though, so I wasn't happy, but not terrified either.
Once she was born and I could cough (and they gave me antibiotics) I finally started getting better. Then 3 wks later we were back in for HER heart surgery. I was like a zombie - no sleep due to coughing before the birth, no sleep due to a newborn after birth, and then no sleep in the hospital.
It's when I truly learned how to accept service, people taking care of my other kids and me. I'll never be able to repay all of what I received. Just give to the next person who needs it, I guess!
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
rivka, I am generally cold all the time. I end up wearing heavy sweaters and such. It has just made nursing difficult in the past. If I could have a couple tops for being out in public that are warm I think it would help. I did find a couple of tops on sale at the outlet nearby. I was also told about a store at the mall 20 minutes away that always has a clearance rack. Next time we are near there I will stop by.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm going to ask my mom if she'll get me some short-sleeved nursing tops; all I have are long-sleeved. She can get them for a shower gift.
Yes, I'm having a shower! I'm excited. I didn't get one with Emma, and my visiting teacher just called about having one. I'd really love to have a distraction from this pregnancy stuff and a chance to hang out with, you know, grown ups...
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
In other news, I'm hungry. Again. It never stops. I'm hungry ALL THE TIME. I eat and eat and eat and I'm STILL HUNGRY!
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I hear ya, sister. The only thing I've found that helps is lots and lots of protein. Actually, beverly brought some whey protein powder to my shower, and I find that when I make myself a shake with it, I eat much less of other foods throughout the day. Which is good considering I've gained *whispers* almost fifty pounds.
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
November 14.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Whisky, is that an announcement?!
Is this your first? I seem to remember you talking about kids before.
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
I think she has 2 already, and her husband posts more than she does, but I forget who (or I could be making something up)
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
November 14 is an excellent birthdate.
And yay, I'm not the furthest out due date here anymore!
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
quote:Originally posted by breyerchic04: I think she has 2 already, and her husband posts more than she does, but I forget who (or I could be making something up)
You are half right. I have 2 little girls, but I post more than my husband (gnixing) does.
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
heh ok, maybe he posted first? Something.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Well, congratulations!
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
He registered long before I did.
Thanks. Posted by vonk (Member # 9027) on :
i just want to share the story of my birth: i am the 3rd of seven. for my birth my mother decided to try it natural. i decided to come out sideways. on the way out, i broke my mothers tailbone with my head. they had to use tongs (i'm sure thats not the technical word) to get me out. the doctors came to my mother and said "we checked him three times and we are pretty sure there is no brain damage" (the verdict is still out on that one). my mom said that my head very much resembled purple play-dough.
[ March 21, 2006, 05:37 PM: Message edited by: vonk ]
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
That made me laugh. Thanks, I needed that just now.
Posted by Dr Strangelove (Member # 8331) on :
@ Vonk
(I really just wanted the 1000th post, but that was a funny story. Incidentally, my little sister had a 'natural birth'. I remember my dad waking me up to see the new baby, right after she'd been born. Naturally, at age 5, my response of "Disgusting!" and my subsequent return to bed were to be expected. )
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Whereas I did not need that right now.
< ---- Due in less than two weeks but will likely deliver before that, according to my doctor
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
quote:they had to use tongs (i'm sure thats not the technical word)
It's forceps.
Brinestone, that's so exciting!
kq, it's so neat that you're having a shower. I didn't get to have one with Aerin, for obvious reasons, and I really wanted one because my bridal shower was a disaster. Maybe with the next baby (no, I'm not pregnant yet).
And if any of y'all are scared or nervous, just keep in mind that I had a miserable pregnancy from start to very early finish and I swore up and down that I would never do it again. We're starting fertility treatments on Aerin's first birthday and I can't wait.
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
Woohoo!!!!
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I've heard several places that I should interview and select a pediatrician before the baby is born.
Do real moms actually interview pediatricians before selecting one? What sorts of questions should I ask in an interview? How did you all choose your child's doctor?
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I was referred to my pediatrician (whom I adore) by the nurses in the NICU. He is a former neonatologist, which was very important to me. Andrew and I did interview him before "officially" choosing him, which just meant having him listed as Aerin's pediatrician on her insurance card.
Here are the questions we asked:
1. Do you think children should wean at a particular time?
2. What is your usual recommendation for babies who cry when they're put to sleep at night?
3. What is your philosophy about antibiotics or other medication for children who have colds or other ailments?
4. What is your opinion about infant vaccinations?
5. How much are your hospital charges and fees for office visits?
6. Does a pediatric nurse practitioner (PNP) work in your office?
7. What is the scheduled length of your appointments?
8. How often do you want to see the baby in the first year? Why?
9. Do you have a "sick-child" waiting room?
10. Do you have evening or weekend hours?
11. Do you charge for phone calls?
12. How does the office handle phone inquiries? Does it set aside specific times for parents to call in with questions or is there an open advice line during office hours? And if staff members handle the inquiries, do they dispense their own advice or relay the doctor's?
13. Do you accept and answer questions by e-mail?
14. How are appointments handled for children who are sick?
15. How can I reach you if my child gets sick after hours? When you are not on call, who covers?
16. How does the practice handle payments, billing, laboratory charges, and insurance claims?
17. What hospitals are you associated with?
18. Do you have board certification from either the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) or the American Board of Family Practice (ABFP)?
19. If my child needs specialty medical care, to whom do you make referrals?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I've never had a choice; I have to take Ems where her insurance will pay for it. I've been very happy with nurse practitioners handling most of her care and her only seeing the doctor for illnesses, though.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Keep in mind that I am the OCD mom of a micropreemie, which makes me about 1,000 times as neurotic as a regular overly-neurotic mom.
I love our nurse practitioner, Nurse Tammy. She actually sat in on half of the interview.
I would ask my OB and/or other moms for referrals and then check to make sure your insurance covers them. We were very lucky that our pediatrician takes ours and when we switch companies, we're making sure he takes it before switching.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
My OB recommended some pediatricians, but all of them are in downtown SLC, and I'd like to find a doctor closer to home (driving 20 minutes with a sick baby does not sound like fun to me).
In my insurance directory of physicians, I found one close to home who has weekend hours available. Maybe I'll start there.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Good luck.
I'm about to go off to my ultrasound. Wish us luck!
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Good luck!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Baby is healthy and head down! And fully functioning, and nicely descended into the pelvis.
In other news, the doctor asked in that semi-casual "I'm not making an issue of this but it's a potential issue" voice, "How big was she?" (Gesturing at Emma.) "8 lbs., 2 oz. And Jeff was almost 10 lbs., I was almost 8." "Well, it looks like we're working on at least that; this one is upwards of six lbs. already."
*shock* No wonder I've been so freakin' hungry and much heavier this time! I've still got almost 6 weeks to go!
Anyway, he said, "So, speaking of being ready to not be pregnant anymore, we may want to talk about picking a date the week before and inducing a little early if you're dilating at all." He said we'll talk about it later; one more two-week appt., then we go to one week. And that was it! But I'm so glad, because I knew this one was gonna be bigger, and I don't need extra pain if I don't have to have it! Yay!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, and I just found out that my shower is the 15th. And my mom has the 20th as her day off, so that might be a good day to schedule the birth. Posted by Tinros (Member # 8328) on :
Wow, kq, I didn't know you were expecting that soon! Has it really been that long since you posted about your newest arrival? Time flies when you're not pregnant...
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
It seems like that to me, too! Luckily, we don't really need much because we still have everything from Emma; at this point last time, I was beginning to freak out about not having clothes, a bassinet (actually we picked that up when Ems was about 7 days old; from the time we took her home until we found one, she slept in a Purina box ), or anything, really, except a car seat and nursing bras. Pretty much the only thing we need to pick up for this one is diapers, which can be bought while I'm in the hospital once we figure out what size we're going to need; Ems still even uses the extra-gentle newborn baby wipes. And heck, Emma's even sleeping in her toddler bed, so we're well past that struggle!
She was so excited when she saw the baby moving on the ultrasound. She kept saying, "Baby! Baby! Baby!" The doctor was amused. And pleased. Posted by Tinros (Member # 8328) on :
awww! Do you have pictures of emma? the only ones I've seen are the "watermelon princess" pictures.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
We just got some of her at my cousin's wedding. Hang on, I'll post them. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Here's our little party girl running around, and her eating some cake.
Posted by Tinros (Member # 8328) on :
awww! That cake picture is ADORABLE!!! She's got this look on her face, like, "helloooo, woman +cake=EAT. How hard is that to understand?"
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
I babysit a two and three year old(sister and brother), the two year old went in for her checkup last week. The pediatritian loves them both. The father said "the only problem we have is I can't convince my wife to have another." The doctor offered to write a perscription. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Tinros, she was actually making faces back at her Uncle Craig, who pulls some awfully good ones now and then. Posted by Tinros (Member # 8328) on :
However, instead of roses on her dress, she needed a couple of these.
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
Wow, kq, she's getting big!
Tinros, that's just beautiful!
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Wow, KQ, I thought you had much longer to go as well.
How exciting - you could have a new baby this time next month! Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
When you put it that way...
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Hey, that dress is pink! That is a pink dress! You said no pink. You said. J'acuse, kq.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
quote:I didn't get to have one with Aerin, for obvious reasons, and I really wanted one because my bridal shower was a disaster. Maybe with the next baby (no, I'm not pregnant yet).
Schedule the future shower for soon after the 20-week ultrasound. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Brinestone: In my insurance directory of physicians, I found one close to home who has weekend hours available. Maybe I'll start there.
Sounds like a good idea. And yes, definitely pick a pediatrician now. You certainly don't want to have do that a few days after giving birth!
kq, I hadn't realized you were quite that ripe to pop either! Are we getting together again before the blessed event?
I'll feed you. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:Hey, that dress is pink! That is a pink dress! You said no pink. You said. J'acuse, kq.
I do occasionally dress her in pink. I just don't buy pink for her. But that particular dress isn't as pink as it looks in those pictures; it's more peachy-colored roses with burgundy centers and highlights. So there.
Plus, it was $8.50 at Once Upon a Child for a dress that I know, upon looking at the label, was probably originally in the $60 range. Also, she picked it herself. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:kq, I hadn't realized you were quite that ripe to pop either! Are we getting together again before the blessed event?
I'll feed you.
I would love to, although the schedule gets full in April. And food is good. Plus, we have Stargate for you-- like, a lot. Although Emma managed to get hold of one of the tapes and mangled the second half of the episode before the season finale! But I can tell you pretty much what happens, she didn't get to it until after I saw it. She apparently learned how to use the "Eject" button, and that videotapes have stuff you can pull out of them... Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
More Stargate! Yippee! *dances*
Next week is bad. But the week after might be ok . . .
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I have a 4 o'clock appointment that Wed., which is also Emma's second birthday. But we're not doing anything after that, so if that Wed. evening would work for you... And other days might work, too. E-mail me, we'll figure it out!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Owwwww.
The extreme nerve pain in the leg has set in. I swear, if there's a pregnancy symptom, I get it. I almost collapsed at church again today.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Ow!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
You mean sciatica?
*sympathetic twinge*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
It's not as constant as sciatica usually is, but yeah, same nerve, basically the same thing. Dratted huge baby head smooshing all my nerves...
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
For persons who are not quite so far along as kq -- Landsend.com has a bunch of marked down maternity stuff in their overstock section. Unfortunately most of it is for people who were size 4-6 pre-pregnancy, but some of it has a broader size range.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
kq, that sure sounds like the kind of pregnancy-related sciatica I get. *sympathetic hug*
Have you tried a chiropractor or physical therapist? That's what my OB recommended last time, and it made a HUGE difference.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I only get it at the very end, the last 3 or 4 weeks, so I tend just to tough it out. If it gets really bad, my mom is an OT and has had a lot of PT training, and she's always willing to fix my pain.
Land's End's stuff is on clearance because they're discontinuing maternity clothing. I was considering getting a maternity swimsuit while they still carry it, even though I've never been pregnant enough to need a maternity swimsuit when it's swimming season.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
So*. I was going through the top of my wardrobe, where I keep stuff I don't use very much, sorting my nursing stuff out from my swimsuits (they had gotten mixed up somehow.) I found a maternity top that had been overlooked when I was getting down my maternity clothes (and putting up my nursing clothes, incidentally.) Now, this top buttons up the front and ties in the back to adjust size. The last time I wore it was the day before Emma was born. It was then washed and put away. So I decided to wear it today.
It wouldn't button. I am apparently bigger than I was the day before Emma was born! I had to undo the tie and button it, then re-tie it to adjust for my new size.
I feel SO attractive. I have gained almost 45 lbs. this time (last time I gained 24 by the very end, I think), but it's not fat. I mean, the part in my, um, chestal area is, but most of it is just mega baby and tons of amniotic fluid. I can feel when I poke my belly how it's all in the uterus (except maybe all that water I'm retaining.) My belly button is poking OUT, which didn't happen until the very end with Ems. I haven't gained in my thighs or anything.
And yet people still look at me when I drop the pregnancy into conversation and say, "Oh, you're pregnant?" Or they ask how far along I am and am shocked; apparently, I don't look that big to them! Or, you know, they just think I'm fat. Maybe it's the way I dress.
Sorry. Hormonal woman ranting.
Did I mention how HUNGRY I am all the time?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, and I forgot about the hot flashes that now accompany my Braxton-Hicks (which, btw, are getting much stronger and longer and closer together. It's enough to think I may not make it to the 20th! Which, honestly, would be okay with me if it means I don't have a 12-lb. baby.)
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Do me a favor, and make it to Wednesday? Please? Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, I'm sure I will.
My baby shower on the 15th, not so sure of. >_<
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I feel like I've become a bit of an emotional wreck. Maybe it's because I woke up at around 2:15 last night and didn't fall asleep again for two hours, so I'm overtired. But I also just want this baby to get here. I'm sick of not knowing if I can make commitments, like a baby shower tomorrow. All the time, I'm thinking, "If I went into labor, what would I do if I were there? How long would it take me to get to the hospital if there were an emergency?"
The thing is, when I'm dilated 3 cm (at least) already, I don't think I'll have as much "early labor" warning as usual, so when I'm in labor, I'll probably be in active labor and will need to get to the hospital fast. *sigh*
And it's driving me nuts to know that I'm this close to having a baby and he's not quite coming. Maybe he's holding out for April Fool's Day or my sister's birthday or some other landmark. Funny, baby. Real funny.
*grumbles*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(((hugs)))
I feel for ya, sister! I remember that soooo well. It'll be over soon.
And then you'll be too tired to remember this for a while. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Brinestone: The thing is, when I'm dilated 3 cm (at least) already, I don't think I'll have as much "early labor" warning as usual
Don't count on that! I mean, be prepared for the possibility (as you clearly are), but don't assume your labor will be short.
*hug* I remember the any-minute-now stage. It lasted 5 weeks with my third. (from my 37th week to 13 days after my due date)
Good luck!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Ick, yeah. I was 3 cm. dilated when I was induced, 3 days past my supposed due date (they later estimated, based on Emma, at least a week and a half in reality.) I had been dilated like that for at least a week.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Oh, I don't expect it to be short. I just think it will probably start suddenly and hard. I may be wrong, though.
And kq, that's exactly what I'm afraid of: a big baby who comes really late.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I was 3 cm for 4.5 weeks before Aerin was born and they weren't even sure if my membrane ever ruptured, so don't worry about missing early labor.
I swear, it almost seems like a race between y'all (kq and Brinestone). Of course, I'm rooting for each of you to go when it's best for you and the baby, but it's exciting to wonder who will be first.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Happy Due-date Day, Ruth! Hope you are feeling more in-of-sorts. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, I'm sure she'll go first. My body feels pain and stalls. >_<
But that's as it should be-- I'm just at 36 weeks now. She should rightfully go first.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I sure hope so! I'm due today, so if you had your baby before me, either yours would be really early or mine would be really late--or both.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(Or they would have waaay overestimated my due date. Again. And a combination of the above. But in any case, here's to your baby coming soon and not causing you undue distress in the coming.)
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Every time I've checked Hatrack the last few days the first thing I look for is an announcement from Brinestone and Jon Boy.
I hope your baby comes soon, Ruth.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
How's that baby coming, Ruth? Still in?
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Oh, I got my hopes up when I saw this on the first page.
I just found out that one of my college friends is having a girl (I already knew she was pregnant). I am so excited for her and I am thrilled that one of my college friends is finally having a baby - now I won't be the only one and I can drop my title as "The One Who Has a Baby."
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Still in.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I think April 4 would be a lovely birthday....
(Come on baby! )
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Maybe the baby is waiting because it wants to share a birthday with Emma. (Hers is Wed.)
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
That could be it!
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
quote:Maybe the baby is waiting because it wants to share a birthday with Emma. (Hers is Wed.)
You're kidding.
Thursday here.
I knew our two girls were close, but this is funny. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I can't believe Ruth's water actually broke on her due date! Doesn't that put her in, like, 5% of women or something?
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Is it still her due date?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
kq, the 5-10% is women who actually deliver on their due date, I believe.
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Operaetta was born on her due date. Contractions began exactly at 12 am on the day. She's always been a willful one.
space opera
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Uhh KQ her, I'm pretty sure her due date was the second, so no hope of a baby on the due date.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I thought she posted it was her due date yesterday?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Duh, guess I'm out of it...
I blame the baby.
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
Morning sickness all the time is no fun. At least I am not throwing up that's a good thing.
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
KQ, I once heard my good friend call it "placenta brain".
I've never been able to call that pregnancy-fog-can't-remember-anything by any other name since. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well.
This child may be even more contrary than I expected (she is, after all, related to me, so I expected SOME contrariness.)
The last few days I've felt a LOT of moving in response to my Braxton-Hicks, been very uncomfortable, had pain in my upper right back, and my bladder capacity has seemed even less than is normal for me when 8 months pregnant.
Today, during my check, the doctor felt for the head to see how far down it was-- and couldn't find it. He moved a little and found it-- on the right side. Bridget has moved into a transverse position (she was head-down two weeks ago when we did the ultrasound.) Her head is directly on my bladder. This child is just ACHING to cause me pain and worry, apparently.
The doctor isn't worried; I have several weeks and all he said was that if my water breaks or I go into labor, I don't have time, I need to come in RIGHT AWAY because of the risk of a prolapsed cord. But he said he's confident she'll turn back, that he doesn't think I'm going to go into labor before she does, she's just a wiggler, and that I shouldn't worry about it. (Yeah, right!)
I'm gonna go get the frozen peas and try putting them above her head. Serve her right, contrary little thing!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
The little stinker. I pushed on her a little and layed on an ice pack, and she seems to be back where she belongs.
Now, what remains to be seen is whether she'll stay there for a week (or hopefully longer.) My husband's prediction is that she's going to move back the day before or the day of. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Poor icy headed Bridget!
(Poor sore Mama too. )
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Hmph. Soon as I went to sleep, she moved right back. Obstinate child.
And so the baby torture-- uh, I mean, repositioning attempts-- will continue. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Again.
Last night, went to bed, she was head down.
This morning, wake up, she's in a frank breech position.
Grrrr.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Stubborn.
Wonder where she gets that from.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Um... Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well. She is turned back head-down (I think that she turned about 2 1/2 hours before my appointment. ) Hopefully she'll stay that way-- or at least get back that way before time.
Strep B test is negative, I'm 50% effaced and 1 cm dilated. The doctor will probably schedule an induction date with me at my next appointment, so it will probably be Monday or Tuesday the 24th or 25th.
Unless I go into labor before then. Which, at this rate, may happen. *plots cumin tea and lots of, um, cervix dilating exercise*
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
KQ, Does lavender and white with ruffles work for Bridget?
Also, does Emma have a "baby" I can knit a matching hat for, and how big is it's head (all two year olds should have hand knit doll hats).
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Lavender and white is gorgeous.
And Emma's baby, coincidentally named "Baby" (guess who named it) has a head with what is apparently a 25 cm diameter. Who knew? She has a sewn-in "bonnet" already, but I doubt Ems will mind. Of course, she has another doll she's quite fond of, too, but Buddy is a boy. And he has a sewn-in hat, too.
You're very sweet. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I just had a lovely baby shower. Posted by Tinros (Member # 8328) on :
How are you, kq? Aren't you due, like, now? I keep checking as often as I can for a thread f yours to be stickied to the top...
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
lol!
No, I'm not due for two more weeks. My official date is the 29th. However, I may go into labor spontaneously this week; if not, I will almost certainly be induced by Monday the 24th.
Posted by Theca (Member # 1629) on :
kq, my SIL is dilated 2 cm, and she's hoping to make it through this week because of work issues. I bet she will make it through this week, but may be early. So y'all may still end up with babies born the same day.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I've been having contractions that actually hurt, accompanied by hot flashes (which I only have with actual productive contractions, as opposed to ones that aren't doing anything), which is why I am hoping I'll labor spontaneously this week. Posted by Tinros (Member # 8328) on :
In that case, I'll keep checking for the stickied thread. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Of course, Tinros, you checking for the stickied thread is probably why the obstinate child is sticking around.
Not that I'm complaining yet-- I'd like to get through Easter without going into labor. Not to mention go into labor on a weekday, early in the morning, for convenience sake (I'm assured my regular doctor will deliver the baby and my mom will be able to stay with Ems.)
Think you can keep checking until late Wednesday night? Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I'll keep checking. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Hmmm, I've been having painful contractions at 20 minute or so intervals since last night...
Drs. appt. this afternoon at 4:30. We'll see what he says.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Make that 15 minute intervals.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Going to take your packed bag along to the doctor's appointment?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yup.
Of course, I live 15 minutes from the hospital. So he might send me back even if I'm in labor but not at 3 cm yet and just tell me when to come back.
Unless my water breaks while I'm there or something. That would be nice.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm going to be induced on Friday! The doctor would have done it tomorrow, but all the slots were full and even he couldn't argue them into it. So I have to be at the hospital at 5:30 so we can hopefully be done before noon. Yay!
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Cool!
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
How exciting! Kq, I hope you have a wonderful labor and birth experience. Can't wait to see pictures!
space opera
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Gotta love those third-trimester pregnancy dreams...
Last night, it was MacGyver. Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
So exciting!!!
There's nothing wrong with MacGyver. I mean, he's no Dr. Phil, but he's very handy.
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
KQ, can I get your address before you go in? If you check this again. email's this sn at gmail dot com.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, Richard Dean Anderson is hawt.
breyerchic, I'll send it right now. Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Thanks, I probably will mail out on Monday.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Sent. Posted by Tinros (Member # 8328) on :
oooooOOOOOoooooo!!! I'll be checking the forums every ten minutes tomorrow...
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
You realize KPC may not take a computer with him and immediately post when Bridget is born, right? Posted by Tinros (Member # 8328) on :
Well, yeah. I know. But I'm checking anyways.
Edit to add: Plus, I'm in school til 3 tomorrow, so I can only start checking it in the afternoon. Hopefully the labor isn't that long, and things will have calmed down by then.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
He doesn't have a laptop. So unless someone else at the hospital does, and some kind of wireless access is available, it will be afternoon at the very earliest before he gets to somewhere with a workable connection. More probably the evening/ night.
We're leaving for my mom's now. We're spending the night there with Ems so we can let her sleep in the morning, and my mom will watch her while I'm in L&D (her house is also a few minutes closer to the hospital.)
So goodbye, Hatrack, until... probably Monday! Next time I see you, there will be another one of us!
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Call me and I'll post. You still have my number, neh?
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Good luck, KQ!!!
Posted by Stray (Member # 4056) on :
Good luck!
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
Waiting impatiently for news....
Hope everyone's doing well!
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Me too...I didn't get anything back, so I'm assuming Jeff will post when he gets home... I can't wait!
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Can't inductions take forever? A family friend of mine was induced with her son, very early in the morning and he was born at like 8pm. Of course it can go either way.
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
I was induced at 8:30 (with my first) and she was born just after 2 in the afternoon.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
I was induced with all three. Dan took about 13 hours, Jen was about 7, and Thomas had me in labor for just over 12 hours before the c-section.
We had our first ultrasound on Monday. We are going to have a girl.
They also saw some things that concered them. So, they scheduled an appointment for us at another hospital. We had that appointment this morning, and it confirmed what they saw. Our baby is going to have a cleft lip and palate.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
Best of luck to you, whiskysunrise. I'm sure you will learn all you can about the conditions of cleft lip and palate. It is nice to know ahead of time so you can have a "game plan" in mind. There are different philosophies about how to deal with this pathology, pros and cons to each side.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
whiskysunrise, my mom works craniofacial. A cleft lip and palate are so much easier to correct than some of the things she sees (think cranial vault surgery-- cutting up the skull, rearranging it, and then putting it back together), but I know surgery on your baby is scary. If you'd like to e-mail her, I'm sure she can give you a list of resources for support groups and stuff, or if you just want to talk to her. Or I can give her your e-mail, if you want. She can walk you through what the surgeries to correct it will be, and what to expect. Posted by R. Ann Dryden (Member # 8186) on :
Hello to my fellow Hatrackers! It's been many moons since I've posted regularly, but I think it's time to get back in the saddle.
I'm pregnant again! Of course, this means that I won't have due date buddies here, probably, since everyone is pretty much done, or at least due way before me. Oh well. I'm still excited.
As some of you may or may not recall, my last pregnancy ended in miscarriage after not being able to find the heartbeat on three different ultrasounds.
This one is going much better (well, for the baby. Not really for me. More on that in a sec). I've had three ultrasounds already. The first was to date the pregnancy, and they gave me a due dat of Jan 3. The second was to verify viability and make sure they could find a heartbeat, because they didn't get one with the Doppler. The baby was doing somersaults during the ultrasound that time, yay! The third was to test for defects, and I had that one last Thursday. Again, to my knowledge everything went well, but I won't get the results back for a little while, so not 100% sure. That ultrasound put my due date at Dec 31.
I'm really happy to be pregnant again, but I don't want a Christmas Eve or Christmas Day delivery if at all possible. I don't think it's fair to the child to share a birthday with that particular holiday. Makes birthday parties and such very awkward. If it does happen, I'll probably let my child have a birthday party at a different time of year.
As far as how I'm doing . . . eesh. Morning sickness doesn't begin to cover it. I'll be okay for a few days at a time, then unable to stop vomiting for hours on end. Last night (OF COURSE it was 4th of July. I missed all the fireworks)was the worst so far. I got a really painful migraine and started throwing up at 5 pm and by 9 pm had thrown up more than 12 times. I went to the emergency room and was there until 4:30 in the morning. They gave me several different types of drugs, but nothing really worked well, and I threw up again in the car on the way home. I slept most of the day, but the migraine never went away. The nausea is better, I haven't thrown up today, but now I'm scared about this happening again.
The ER Dr. prescribed Zofran for me to use at home to help arrest the vomiting but my insurance is balking at covering it, and for 6 measly pills it costs $150, which we can't afford. Unfortunately the cheaper drugs were the ones that didn't help at all. Le sigh.
I feel so special. Not only do I get every pregnancy symptom worse than normal, but I'm always falling into those "less than 1% of pregnancies experience this" categories. It stinks to be officially labeled 'hyperemesis gravidarum' but I guess I'll have to live with it. I had it with Claire, too, but the only time I had to go to the hospital for the vomiting was much later in the pregnancy, when I was already pre-eclamptic.
Speaking of, I'm terrified that I'll get that again and I don't know what to do if I have to be on bedrest for months. I have a toddler now. I can barely take care of her during the days as it is. Forget housework. Showering is the limit for me with my energy levels. They say the second trimester brings more energy. I'm at 14 weeks and so far no sign. Last time the second trimester brought daily migraines. I'm hoping not this time too, but it seems to be heading that way.
Ain't life grand?
Of course, though I know I'm whining, I do know that the first pregnancy was well worth it to have Claire. I know this one will be too. Though some days the thought of ever doing this again kind of scares me, even though I want more kids. What can I say? I don't like pain. It hurts .
Posted by Theca (Member # 1629) on :
Your insurance may well cover the medication, if you get your doctor to document for them that the other medications are ineffective. I'd say there is an extremely good chance of it. After all, paying for zofran is far cheaper than paying for ER visits and IV fluids and admissions to the hospital. Simply inform your regular OB about your problem.
Or, ask the pharmacist first, they may be able to predict how your insurance company will react if you get the doctor to intervene.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I sympathize with the morning sickness -- mine's not anywhere near as bad, but I'm at 27 weeks and still gagging. Someone asked me last week if I was still getting sick and when I said yes she said, "it will go away when you hit the second trimester." When I told her that I'd just hit the third trimester she wasn't quite sure what to say.
But, yuckiness aside, congratulations!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Okay, pregnant ladies. Haven't heard from you for a while.
How are those babies percolating?
whiskysunrise, when are you due? Haven't heard anything in a while, and my mom has given me some cleft palate resources to forward you, and she also said if you ever need anyone to talk to I can give you her home phone number (feel flattered, she doesn't even let me put that on my hospital forms!)
Posted by whiskysunrise (Member # 6819) on :
We are due November 14. We have had 3 ultarsounds. The baby is growing well and everything else looks fine. We do have another ultrasound coming up to check and make sure everything is still all right.
Any resources that you have would be welcome. My email is in my profile. And tell your mom thanks.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Hey, all you pregnant ladies, someone on another forum just linked to something cool: a contraction counter that will time your contractions for you. You just hold down the space bar (or have your husband do it for you) during contractions and it tells you how frequent and how long they are.
whiskysunrise, I'll e-mail you what she sent me. And like I said, just tell me if you'd like to talk to her, she's just about the most reassuring person on earth when it comes to this stuff (she runs the craniofacial clinics for SoCal for her company.)
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
I'm due January 4th. Looks like a girl and everything healthy and normal. I wish that I looked more pregnant since I am putting on all the weight, I'd rather people knew why. But happy things are going well.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Just checking up on our pregnant ladies. How are you feeling, whiskysunrise? Ready to be done?
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
Yesterday someone congratulated me on finally looking pregnant and not just like I had been on an eating binge. After over 7 months, it is about time I looked pregnant. I am a little bummed that my insurance won't pay for a third trimester ultrasound though (dr said everything has been perfect, so no way I can get them to pay). I wanted to see if I could see hair. We are debating whether she will come out bald like me or with a huge head of hair like my husband. Though he claims she will look more like him than me since I am all recessive genes and he is all dominant.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Thanks to Ludosti for reminding me about this thread. I can finally join it!
Seems that with the last posting being in October of 2006 that there probably aren't any original posters in this thread who are still pregnant--unless they're due in July!
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
Congrats, Katarain!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Congratulations.
I'm hoping to rejoin the thread soon...
About 3rd tr. u/s-- I've had one both times to make sure the baby was lying the right way. Is that not SOP?
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
Congrats, Katarain! Yay!
KQ: not SOP here, unless there was some reason to question the due date or the size of the baby or something. In fact I think I had 3rd trimester ultrasounds with at least 2 of my four, but in each case it was because of a question they had ... not SOP.
It seems to vary by doctor.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Ooooh. I'm always in question about my due date, they like to triple-check it, then my babies are big (mostly long), and also I tend to lots of fluid so they can't tell the exact position by poking me (although I usually can, but they don't like to rely on that, apparently.)
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I've had hardly any symptoms, so far. I guess I've been more tired, but it's hard to tell since I'm often tired, anyway. I haven't been nauseous yet, but I was reading that doesn't happen until later, anyway. My back has hurt some, and I'm sore after sleeping through the night. I've also had some abdominal cramping, in different locations at different times. The pain is never bad enough that it takes my breath away. Sometimes it's sharp, but so far, no one pain has been lasting.
I think if I hadn't taken a test, I would have no idea that I'm pregnant.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Lucky. Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
That's how I was too - I had absolutely no symptoms up until I hit 6 weeks.
Since then, I've had just about everything so far - nausea, vomiting, back pain, fatigue, round ligament pain, breast tenderness/growth, and the last week or so, I'm beginning to show a little. Here's hoping you'll continue to feel good!! I wouldn't wish the opposite on anyone. Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Oh yeah, I forgot breast tenderness. That's a new one.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
1st pregnancy: 1st u/s at first visit (around 8 weeks). 2nd u/s at 20 weeks. Those were the only scheduled u/s. I asked about having another one after I went into pre-term labor at 33 weeks, but the doc didn't think it was necessary. Of course, now I wish I had demanded one. We could have seen Mooselet's issues before birth and been prepared for them.
2nd/3rd pregnancies (different doctor): 1st u/s at 2nd visit (around 12 weeks). 2nd u/s at 24 weeks. That's it. I think I got one pic from each one. The doc kept all the other pics. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Wow, my doctors have both let me have multiple pics from each u/s. We even have video of one.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I was lucky that I got a pic from my 9 week u/s. Since my doctor's office can't do u/s, I was sent to a third party. The tech said that they really weren't supposed to say anything to us, but was nice enough not to leave a pregnant-for-the-first-time mom wondering (I'd been sent in because the doctor couldn't find the heartbeat, and while I was trying really hard not to be worried by that, it was such a relief to find out it was only because I wasn't the 12 weeks we'd thought I was). She let me know that the heartbeat was there and strong, that I was only 9 weeks along, and even gave me a picture. I had fun playing "find the picture in the static" with my husband.
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
Around here (northern Colorado), SOP is just a 20 week US. We, also, got multiple pics, and a CD video file of the latest one.
I'm done being sick, although baby brother doesn't like food in my tummy at night, so I usually still throw up dinner. I'm feeling well enough that I've started cleaning the house again, and Puntini and I go to the zoo every 1-2 weeks. I'm showing, but he's high enough that I'm still wearing pre-pregnancy pants! That did not happen last time! I was wearing maternity pants at 10 weeks pregnant.
Oh, oh! This is a good place to ask this question! I had an emergency c-section last time. (It was a true emergency. Puntini would have died if I went vaginal.) Anyone had that experience and then had to choose between VBAC and a scheduled C? How did you tune out extended family member's (differing) opinions to choose what was right for your own family? How did you know what was right for you? I'm really struggling to know what to do. The pros and cons (for our family) are about equal. The doctor wants me to decide by 28 weeks, and that's only a month away. Grrr! Any advice?
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
It always makes me smile when this thread gets resurrected. What about due dates? Have the three of you pregnant ladies posted your due dates?
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
Sorry! My due date is October 12.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I put mine in the other thread, but hadn't put it in this one.
I'm due December 18th.
Posted by dawnmaria (Member # 4142) on :
Since we're having so many issues with my pregnancy, I have an ultrasound once a month. Jack is tracking much larger then his actual gestational age. We are very, very sure of his conception date so we know where he should be. I do have gestational diabetes but have been on the diabetic diet since I knew I was pregnant so the docs don't think that's the problem. I had to go on bed rest with my daughter and she was induced at week 38 because she was running out of fluid and my pressure was outrageous. I am trying to take it as easy as possible so I don't have to go on bed rest this time. I can't imagine how bed rest would work with a 2 and a half year old! My original due date was 9/9 but now it looks like sometime during the 2nd week of August. Coincidentally, that's when my new house should be ready. I like to do everything at once! Not!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by divaesefani: Around here (northern Colorado), SOP is just a 20 week US.
That's the AMA's current guideline for uncomplicated pregnancies.
quote:Originally posted by divaesefani: Anyone had that experience and then had to choose between VBAC and a scheduled C? How did you tune out extended family member's (differing) opinions to choose what was right for your own family? How did you know what was right for you? I'm really struggling to know what to do. The pros and cons (for our family) are about equal. The doctor wants me to decide by 28 weeks, and that's only a month away. Grrr! Any advice?
How likely is a recurrence of whatever triggered the emergency C? How difficult was your recovery from surgery last time? Does your doctor have a recommendation?
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I don't know my due date yet, but I think it's somewhere between February 23rd and March 8th.
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
quote:Originally posted by rivka:
How likely is a recurrence of whatever triggered the emergency C?
The issue was baby issue, not my issue (cord was coiled on top of his head and being compressed by my pelvis), so it probably won't happen again. But I've been through the stress of an emergency C (after 20 hours of labor), and I don't know if I want to risk it again. But then again, I've never had a vaginal birth and I don't know if I'm missing something because of that.
quote: How difficult was your recovery from surgery last time?
My recovery was not bad last time, even though I'd labored for quite awhile prior to the surgery. At my 6 week post-op check, my doctor was impressed that I'd only been taking Tylenol for the last week, not prescriptions. My husband says it was worse than I remember. My doctor says that recovery would be much quicker with a scheduled C compared to an emergency C.
quote:Does your doctor have a recommendation?
My doctor said that if she were me, she would opt for the c-section. She, herself, had a successful VBAC and was happy with it, but thinks if she had my experience she would schedule the C. Then again, they say that I'm a good candidate for a VBAC, so I can choose whatever I want.
I just go back and forth! One week, I think VBAC, the next I just want to schedule it. This is probably the hardest decision I've ever had to make. And I don't know how to make it.
Posted by theCrowsWife (Member # 8302) on :
I will have to make this decision myself, next time I get pregnant. I also had an emergency c-section, although it was after only about 12 hours of labor. I'm determined to try VBAC unless there's a definite reason not to. Even though my recovery was very easy (I didn't even fill any of the pain med prescriptions and I only took tylenol for maybe a week), I still don't want to go through the surgery again. I've spent the last few years terrified at the thought of getting pregnant again, because of the possibility of another c-section. I do want more children, though, so I've started to come to terms with the fear.
Good luck, with whatever you decide to do.
--Mel
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:My husband says it was worse than I remember.
I am willing to lay odds that is true. It's the reason why all children aren't only children.
quote: My doctor says that recovery would be much quicker with a scheduled C compared to an emergency C.
Definitely.
However, from what I understand (IANAD!) vaginal birth is not only better for mom, it's better for baby. It'd be one thing if the C-section were caused by something that were likely to repeat. Given that it's not . . . well, I know what I would do. Probably. (If it were likely to repeat, I'd be pushing the other way. I have one friend whose doctor, husband, me, and a bunch of family members all threatened to take out and shoot if she opted for anything other than a scheduled C with kid #2.)
It is a hard decision. But the thing is, as long as you end up with a healthy baby (which is almost certain whichever one you choose), it really won't matter that much in the end. Good luck. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:However, from what I understand (IANAD!) vaginal birth is not only better for mom, it's better for baby.
Yes. Which is why, from what I understand, if you are a good candidate for VBAC (based on your scar tissue, the issue unlikely to recur, etc.), current medical guidelines recommend it over C-section. BUT it is something that you have to feel comfortable with or it is unlikely to succeed, or if it does succeed may leave you very unhappy; like you said, you don't want to end up with another emergency section. So if it were me, I'd examine my feelings toward vaginal birth; do I feel safe opting for it? Does it feel right? Do I have a supportive environment, from my husband, the doctor, the hospital, in having the birth I want as much as is possible? I think there is something to be said for woman's intuition in these cases; sometimes your body will send you signals one way or another that you may interpret as no more than a feeling. Go with your gut, after being well educated on your options, it is all you can do. And don't be afraid to wait until the very end of the pregnancy, when your feelings and signals may be stronger, to choose-- or to change your mind if you feel the need to do so.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
The Queendom of Boon will be acquiring another subject, sometime between Christmas and St. Patrick's Day. The nurses I've talked to say my due date is Valentine's Day, but my cycles were rather wonky for a while (despite being on the pill), so I don't think that's accurate. We'll see Tuesday, when I have an ultrasound to more accurately date the pregnancy.
Yes, you read that right. I was on the pill. And we used condoms. With spermicide. Huh. Guess this really was meant to be.
I've had the HARDEST time finding a doctor that will consider a VBAC, much less one that's willing to help me with the other considerations during this pregnancy. Like my weight. And some other stuff. But I think I found one, so that's good.
If anyone was wondering, things are going well on the home front. We're in a much lower stress environment now, and working hard to get things all straightened up for KQ's visit next week! Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Ohmigoodness, Boon!!
Congratulations, and best of best wishes. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
And also, I'm not pregnant. *grumble*
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Thanks.
And Have you been trying long?
Posted by Derrell (Member # 6062) on :
Boon, I hope all goes well. Congratulations.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Thanks. Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay boon!!
((imogen))
I'm really crossing my fingers that these last few days I've been feeling pretty good are not a fluke. I'm starting to show, which is weird to get used to. I think one of my pairs of jeans is going to have to remain in the closet for a while. For someone who's never done this before, it's really weird. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Hi, Boon!!!
I knew first. And I actually kept it a secret, I'm so nice,
imogen.
I'm still waiting for my period, which should have been here four days ago, but I keep getting - tests so sadly, I think it's just late, or decided not to come this month.
ludosti, I hope you keep feeling well. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Boon, we've been trying on and off for a year or so - but I have PCOS and for a long time my periods were AWOL.
They've now returned to a semi-regular if long cycle, so only now do we really have any chance (although I still may not even be ovulating, so who knows). I'm going to see the doctor tomorrow and see what we can do.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
divaesefani, I would trust my doctor and my instincts.
I also had an emergency C (very emergency and dramatic - complete with my doctor screaming for test results and about a dozen medical personnel) and I had a very easy recovery. Honestly, though, my recovery isn't one to judge by - I had Aerin on a Monday after a month of hospital bedrest and major courses of meds (including a week on Magnesium Sulfate) and I was discharged on Friday and completely off painkillers by the next Friday. I went up to see the nurses on the Perinatal Special Care floor when I was visiting Aerin and they were shocked to see me up an around - especially considering that I almost didn't make it through Aerin's birth. I'm having a Section with the next baby (not pregnant yet) - there's just no safe way I can have a VBAC with my history.
Mazel tov, Boon!
Sorry to hear the news, kq. Maybe next month.
imogen, I've been there. Really, exactly there. My magic cocktail was clomid, Follistem, and hCg. I was also on Metformin. Best of luck - you'll be in my prayers.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:Sorry to hear the news, kq. Maybe next month.
Well, considering I'll probably be in Tulsa while I'm ovulating, maybe the month after.
But I'm seriously bummed that this is being so hard; we tried for one month, got pregnant, miscarried early, and then after three months of bleeding, tried three more months with no results except this strangely late period (probably stress, I think.)
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Is there another wave of pregnant Jatraqueras going around?
*looks around innocently*
...
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Are you trying to share something?
Posted by mr_porteiro_head (Member # 4644) on :
I think she's succeeding.
Congrats, you two!
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Congratulations!
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
quote:Yes, you read that right. I was on the pill. And we used condoms. With spermicide.
I'm never having sex again. Ever.
As for the rest of you,
Congrats to all Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Poor Nathan.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Ick. I think the morning sickness has started full force... without vomiting, so far, though.
I'm at work because I was hoping it would pass soon and I didn't want to miss a whole day.
I must look pretty green, a coworker went in search of ginger ale for me.
Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
Way to go Jennie!
In other news, I'm not pregnant. Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Katarain, I know how you feel. I have not yet vomited, but I tend to feel pretty gross off and on during the day. These last few days have been improving vastly, so I'm crossing my fingers that the sickness part is on its way out (I'm approaching 12 weeks). I'm starting to eat more like a normal person! Well, with the exception of the apple pie last night...that was weird. It looked so tasty, and I was quite excited, but I took one bite and it was intensely tart, and I couldn't handle it. I asked Paul if it was more tart than usual, and he said, nope, it's the same!
Oh, and my due date is January 30th. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, things definitely taste-- and smell-- different when you're pregnant.
My favorite is always when something looks and sounds so good-- and then you take a bite and throw it up. Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Kat and hansen - I'm so sorry you're feeling sick! I had (it's now been one week since I threw up so I'm hoping this is past tense now) morning sickness from hell and I really hope neither of you will go through that! If you need good ideas, everyone had tons of them for me in this thread. Be really careful to make sure to stay hydrated enough. I got so sick I got severely dehydrated and ended up in the ER. Now I know that if I can't keep anything down even for only 1 day, it's time to go get IV fluids.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Well, my pregnancy is half done. I'm still feeling pretty good, for the most part (even though I still throw up occasionally). We found out we are having a little girl and that things are looking good! We apparently have a very active little girl so I'm trying to identify when I'm feeling her and when I'm just feeling random stomach stuff. Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Congrats, ludosti:) I'm glad things are going well for you.
I found out my due date is March 1st, so I'm nearly 10 1/2 weeks now. I can't wait to start feeling the baby move! It'll be another 10 weeks or so before we find out what we're having.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Yay Ludosti and Katarain!
(I went to the doctor - the earliest I could get with the Gynae she recommended was October. I have taken the appointment.)
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
I'm officially in the second trimester!
Symptoms haven't gone away completely, but they have been (ever so slightly and gradually) lightening up. I still feel sick off and on, especially if it's been too long since I last ate, but I made it through the first trimester of DOOM without puking!
I'm also very excited to feel the baby move. I know it could be many weeks away, but my sister felt her baby move pretty early on, so I'm hoping I'll be like her.
Congratulations on the halfway milestone, ludosti!
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Congrats, everyone!
Well, looks like I'm finally getting an ultrasound on Thursday; I'll have a better due date either then or when I see the doctor on the 15th, however they work it here...
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I'm glad you've got an appointment imogen!! I'm sorry you have to wait until October though.
Yay hansen on making it through the first trimester without puking!! (heck I didn't even make it through the day without puking ) I haven't quite figured out what the baby feels like - let me know when you do!
I hope your ultrasound goes well Boon! My first ultrasound gave me a vastly different due date from what had been initially calculated. The second one pretty much matched the first one. I'll have to go in for another one in a couple months, since I seem to have a low-lying placenta and we'll see if it matches too. Be sure to let us know when you're due!
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
What is it about being pregnant that makes people think they can say whatever they want to you? Just asking.
I think someone should do humanity a favor and make a list of all the things that are never acceptable to say to anyone, ever. Like "I see you've gained weight. Eating a lot, huh?" (from someone who knows you're pregnant). Or "Elephant." Helpfully illustrated by pointing at your stomach.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
The baby's movement at first feels a heck of a lot like gas bubbles moving in your stomach. Except they're really, really low. And you keep feeling them, every day, at times when you don't have gas.
Since being pregnant, there have been two times when I've had gas bubbles fairly low in my abdomen, and I've had a bit of a double take. Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Brinestone, is that an announcement?
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
No.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I was the same way, Brinestone-- I got so used to feeling the baby move that for 6 months after Emma was born it took me a few seconds to remember that that was gas, not baby.
(With Bridey, I was too busy to notice gas!)
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
quote:The baby's movement at first feels a heck of a lot like gas bubbles moving in your stomach. Except they're really, really low. And you keep feeling them, every day, at times when you don't have gas.
That's kind of what I was thinking. Last night, there were several times when it felt like something very, very low in my belly was boiling (I've never felt gas even remotely like that). I figured perhaps my little ninja was enjoying "Ninja Warrior" with me. There have been other times when I've felt like I had a muscle twitch, yet there was no actual muscle twitching (that I could detect).
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Definite strong heartbeat, five little fingers on each hand and five little toes on each foot. We could even see a nose bump.
CRL just under 7.5cm, putting me at 13 weeks 5 days, with a due date of February 2...so I guess the original date of February 14th wasn't so far off, after all.
Guess I'll be having another February baby. Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
One of my friends is due Feb 3rd with her second. Everyone but her seven year old is excited.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
February is a big month for us already. My husband's birthday is the 12th, Dan's is the 26th, and my sister's is the 28th.
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
I realized the other day that I'm now actually a week past the point where my sister's baby was born (both survived, him with cerebral palsy and cortical? blindness). This is simultaneously reassuring (every additional week is a greater chance at life and health) and scary (my kid could survive outside the womb! if it's lucky!).
This is the end of week 25 for me, btw.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Congrats on your February baby Boon!!
I know what you mean Lissande! I remember feeling strangely relieved when I hit the second trimester (since in the 1st you have the risk of miscarriage, and in the 3rd you have the risk of pre-term labor, the 2nd trimester is considered the "safest").
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I am having such a good time keeping with with all y'all, even if I'm not posting much. It seems like we're having another Hatrack baby boom!
It strange, I can't imagine being pregnant past 26 weeks (when Aerin was born). I'm going to be all kerfluey when I pass it with the next one. No, I'm not pregnant, but we're planning for a December/January conception and they're taking enough precautions that I should go almost full-term.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
That would be great if you were able to go close to full term! Not that Aerin didn't turn out wonderful, but I know that having her born so early made for a great deal of stress for everyone involved.
I'm a little weird and hoping maybe I can have my little girl a couple weeks early. I know it's not something I should worry about, but I really don't want to have a Christmas baby (and being due Dec 18th, I'm worried I'll end up with a Christmas baby). I'd rather have a baby for a late 30th birthday present (which is November 30th). Oh well, whenever she gets here will be wonderful!
[ August 03, 2007, 03:45 PM: Message edited by: ludosti ]
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
I don't think it is at all weird hoping for baby two weeks early. 38 weeks is considered full term and in general, no health problems there. And by that point, I don't think anyone is really still enjoying being pregnant. If you are progressing well, your doctor might be willing to induce. At my 39 week check up, I was 3 cms dialated, like 60% effaced (and had been for a couple weeks) and so my dr induced as soon as the hospital was willing to take me (which took a few days). With the Christmas thing, I would imagine your dr would want you to go asap as well, since his/her holiday is also effected. I would not recommend inducing though if you weren't going good though.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I was induced at 38 weeks with Bridey, and BOY was I glad.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Ooh, what an excellent point! I doubt my doctor wants to be delivering a baby on Christmas any more than I want to have one then! We'll have to see how things progress.
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
I would be ok with delivering a little early as well. I was apparently born at 42 weeks, which is not sounding like an attractive alternative to me. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Emma was born at 41 and change, and while she was beautiful (much more developed than the other babies born that day), I would not do it again.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
It apparently is a hatrack baby boom. *cough* I'm pregnant with my first, due maybe January 15th, maybe January 17th, maybe January 21st, depending on if you go by sonogram #2, sonogram #1, or dates.
I read ludosti's original thread, when she was SO sick (glad you're feeling better!!), but I didn't post because I was worried because I WASN'T sick, or at least not much. (My doctor told me, in the nicest possible way, to stop being silly. )
Anyway, I'm so happy to be in the second trimester 'cause of the lowered risk of miscarriage, and I'm not so darn tired all the time. I'm not showing much yet (worried about that, too, but again, the doctor said everything looked perfect), so it's still a secret unless I want to share.
My husband and I have been married 10 years, and this is the first grandchild on both sides. This little one already has a LOT of stuff--blankets and sleepers and (no kidding) almost 1,000 newborn-size diapers provided by the grandparents-to-be.
Congratulations to everyone else out there!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Congratulations, Liz.
I'm starting to get very depressed.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Congratulations Liz. Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
quote:Emma was born at 41 and change, and while she was beautiful (much more developed than the other babies born that day), I would not do it again.
That's what my mom said about me, too - I was pretty, not red and wrinkly, and looked about three months old.
quote:I was worried because I WASN'T sick, or at least not much
I know that feeling. "I haven't thrown up. Is this a bad sign???" Also gained no weight the first trimester (despite eating like a maniac). I try to look on these things as blessings. Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Thanks!
(((kq))) Maybe next month!!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Congrats Liz!!! I'm glad things are going so well!!! I was told by an ultrasound tech that the due date from the 1st sono is the most accurate (because development early on is pretty uniform and only one measurement is used - later they use an average of a bunch of measurements). Assigning a due date based on last period date just seems silly to me, since you can be fertile for several days even if you happen to have a perfect 28 weeks cycle. I'm using the date from my first sono because it's also the furthest away. Be happy that you didn't get sick (because I got so sick, I didn't really have the option to keep it a secret from anyone)!! It really is awful!! Also, be happy you're not having to play games with your clothes just yet! In the last couple weeks I had to put away a couple pairs of my pants because they just didn't feel comfortable when I sat down.
((kq)) I know it's probably not much consolation, but Emma and Bridget's little brother/sister just isn't ready yet. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, that or I have an ovarian cyst. That was suggested when I ended up in the ER-- but of course I haven't been able to go in and get seen yet.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Let's hope it's not an ovarian cyst!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah.
The pain has gotten better, so I'm kind of just hoping it will go away on its own...
I know I shouldn't.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Mazel tov, Liz!
kq, my ovarian cysts (from the fertility treatments) all went away, so who knows. Are you cyst-prone? If so, you might want to have your doctor check your uterus. Uterine cysts can act like IUDs (which I found out when I had one that did). The ovarian ones are so painful, bless your heart. I'm praying you feel better.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I've never been diagnosed with a cyst, but my mom and sister both have.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Doc says everything's just fine. Oh, and I've now lost about 20 pounds since just before I got pregnant. I know that's not normally a good thing, but considering where I started, I'm only supposed to gain a maximum of 10 pounds anyway.
No, I'm not dieting per say, just eating better and trying to get this lumpy body in shape to birth a baby. That and LOTS of water. LOTS. Like ten to fifteen 16 ounce glasses a day (and yes, I pee a lot too). No soda (except one daily ginger ale or sprite), a little juice, lots of dairy, fruits, veggies, meats and a few carbs.
Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
I was late this month, after having progressively shorter cycles over the last 4 months. For the 2 years prior to that I had been eerily regular. I think the giving up chocolate had a lot to do with it. But, yeah, not pregnant again.
I am getting used to the idea that 37 doesn't necessarily mean the show is over. A lot could change in the next 2.5 years. Well. Probably not, but accidents can happen Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
My sister in law finally had her baby!!! She did end up inducing, despite swearing she would never do that, but her mom convinced her. She is in a lot of pain (tore in many places) but baby and mom seem well. 8 pounds 11.5 ounces.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote: Like ten to fifteen 16 ounce glasses a day (and yes, I pee a lot too).
I'll vouch for that one. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
scholar, I'm glad both are doing well, and I hope she heals quickly. Boy or girl?
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
A baby boy- which is what they wanted. My brother is convinced a little girl will have him so wrapped around her little finger he'll never make a decision on his own again.
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
I'm glad you're feeling healthier, Boon. Last pregnancy, I started of with a 10lb weight loss before starting to gain any.
I weighed myself today, and so far at 32 weeks, I've only gained 13 lbs this pregnancy!! This is super good news for me, because I gained 50 lbs last pregnancy, so I was really wanting to keep within normal range this time. So far so good!
Over all, pregnancy is going really well. It's just more tiring this time, since I have an active toddler. It's been hard to stay cool and hydrated in the summer heat, but that's my own fault for being pregnant in the summer again! Next time we're going for a spring baby so I don't have to be pregnant in the heat!
I haven't been sleeping well and I know that's normal, but it wasn't helped when I found a black widow spider crawling across my bed last night after a trip to the bathroom. I made my husband move all the laundry, vacuum and get us clean sheets. Today I spent the day at my mom's house while we bug bombed the dang spiders to death. Hopefully, I'll sleep much better tonight since I won't be imagining that each crawly feeling is a black widow! Eek!
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
A black widow?!? *shudders*
Thanks, ludosti & Mrs. M! I'm just to the point now where I really can't wear any of my pants/ shorts/ skirts--luckily, it's summer vacation, so I just got a couple of things in larger sizes and have been making do...until yesterday, when I decided those pants were getting uncomfortable. So I finally bought some maternity stuff and OH MY GOODNESS they're so comfortable. Why can't normal clothes have nice, soft, stretchy waistbands????
quote:Assigning a due date based on last period date just seems silly to me
No kidding--especially considering that I pretty much don't keep track and never have. So my LMP was a total guess, which I told my doctor...oh well.
Wow, Boon. That's a LOTTA water...and congratulations on the hard work you're doing. I went from being a pretty regular exerciser to not going at all because I was just so tired. (I still walked some.) I really need to get back to the gym because I've lost so much muscle tone. You've inspired me!
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
Going by last period date, I'm going to have that 12-month child from Hart's Hope. Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
If so many women don't keep track, why do the doctors/nurses look at me like I'm an oddball when I don't know the exact date? Sheesh. I knew I wasn't the only one.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
I used to just skip the sugar pills when I was on the pill and so whenever a dr asked lmp, they would freak out and want me to take a pregnancy test. Then I went off the pill and got pregnant right away. The dr wanted to know how regular I was when not on the pill. It was like, hmm, what was my cycle like nearly a decade ago. Everyone seemed so shocked at my inability to answer such a simple question.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I just smile sweetly and say, "I've always been horribly irregular." That usually gets a response of, "Oh, okay, we'll just date you by u/s, then." I have had one or two stinky doctors that try to make me estimate, so I give them a range so wide they grumble.
I have gotten better about tracking my periods since I signed up for mymonthlycycles.com, though. I don't generally do anything on there but mark flow (and I tend to do it on the last day of my period, but it gets done, and then I can handily go back and look it up if I need to for, say, a doctor appointment.)
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
For most of my life I've known when my period was due within a 4 hour window. I knew my due date based on last period and it was exact to the day with the ultrasound.
Of course, John was two weeks early anyway, but that's why they call it an "estimated due date," no?
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Heh, yeah my cycle was always horribly irregular before going on birth control (for about 5 years). I started keeping track of my periods when I went off (to help with the whole knowing when I was pregnant thing), but I'd only had 2 before getting pregnant, so that doesn't make for accurate tracking.
Yay Liz for maternity clothes! I'm still mostly wearing my normal clothes, though it is obvious to people who know me that I am pregnant.
Yay Boon for the good weight situation! You're doing such a good thing for both yourself and your baby! I'm so happy for you!
Though not really the best way to lose it, I am still down 20lbs from my first appointment (for the second month in a row and I'm now at 21 weeks), which is fine with me. My doctor is happy that my weight has stabilized and said he would expect me to gain 20-35 lbs (I'd expected 15-20 lbs for myself, given I'm overweight to start with), so hopefully I'll end up right about where I started before getting pregnant (which would probably be good).
I'm frustrated with having to continue to take 3 medications a day (and because I'm still having such problems, I'm taking them all every day, rather than spacing them out like I was before), but I've about come to terms with it. If it keeps me out of the hospital and able to eat, it really is for the best, much as I hate it (2 of them are Class B and 1 is Class C).
I've really had fun this week going shopping with my mom and picking up a few baby things. Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
This thread is bad luck! As soon as I made my post I had to go throw up for the first time this week. Posted by roxy (Member # 3416) on :
What about gaining too much weight? I've already gained thirty pounds and I still have two months left. I feel like such an oddball here Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I am very petite, and I gained 46 pounds in my pregnancy. So yeah, I gained more than I would have liked to. I lost it all nursing, though. And then some.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
I gained too much as well and I am still nursing, so still more time to see how well I'll lose it. I have one friend who swears as soon as she stops nursing, she loses all the weight in like a month, but loses nothing while nursing.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Some women are like that; some lose better while nursing (like me, although I still have a few of the 50+ lbs. I put on last pregnancy...)
Posted by roxy (Member # 3416) on :
I was one of those unlucky few who spent the first four months WISHING I could vomit... at least I would have gotten a little relief.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
quote:Originally posted by roxy: I was one of those unlucky few who spent the first four months WISHING I could vomit... at least I would have gotten a little relief.
Yup, me too. Now that you're past that, do you find that you're hungry all the time but still gaining more than you wish you were?
I asked my obstetrician about that, and she suggested trying to get more protein in my diet. I did and found that I wasn't as hungry, but I think I did too little too late. I wonder if I would have gained less had I known that all along. I guess I'll have to see next time I'm pregnant.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I only gained about 20 pounds, lost it all within two weeks of delivery, and in the eleven months of breasfeeding since have not lost another ounce.
It's very depressing, since I could stand to lose about 60lbs more. I was really hoping that breastfeeding would help with that.
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
I have not gained any weight yet (16.5 weeks), and it boggles my mind. I never threw up, I haven't been up to exercising, and my tummy is definitely getting bigger every day. The only explanation that fits is that I'm losing muscle weight.
Granted, I don't mind the fact that I haven't gained weight yet at all...I'm just bracing myself for the inevitable onslaught of pounds. It's coming! I know it!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
quote:Originally posted by roxy: I was one of those unlucky few who spent the first four months WISHING I could vomit... at least I would have gotten a little relief.
I spent several months wishing that when I vomited I experienced some sort of relief. It was so frustrating to feel awful always, and still feel awful even after throwing up. Now with the meds, I feel fine most of the time. If I notice I'm starting to feel awful again, I know what to expect, and usually within half an hour or so of throwing up I feel better.
I think I'm starting to develop stretch marks. Since my body excels at making them (I have them everywhere - even on my knees!), I'd been surprised to have made it this far without any. At least I'm assuming that the 3" of slightly purple, small-burst-capilary-looking section of my belly is stretch marks forming.... It really freaked me out when I first saw it over the weekend, but since it isn't tender or changing shape or size or anything, I'm assuming it's ok.
Please someone tell me that in addition to getting backaches, it's normal for your belly to ache. The last few days my belly has just ached (no sharp stabbing round ligament pain, just a dull ache on both sides and the bottom of my belly).
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
Mine did, but I don't know if that could be an indicator of anything. I asked my dr and he said I was fine.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
That's good to know. I figure it's natural for everything to hurt as stuff is stretching and moving around. It just makes it hard to sleep at night.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Belly, back, and my left leg always hurts, along with terrible sciatica.
It's very very normal for weird stuff to hurt as it stretches or gets cramped. Just pay attention to things that suddenly start hurting really really bad. And if something "doesn't feel right" call your doctor about it; no one knows your body better than you do. Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
That's the one thing that I probably like least about being pregnant - I no longer feel like I know what is happening with my own body. It's like I've been body snatched!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, true as that is, you still know more than anyone who's not living in it!
Are you reading What to Expect and/or a website bulletin like the ones from BabyCenter that kinda give you a hint what's causing all those strange sensations and which ones to watch out for?
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yeah, I read weekly fetal development updates and I've read the pregnancy booklet my insurance company sent me along with a few other assorted periodicals, so I have some idea of what's going on. It's just unnerving for me because I'm kind of a control freak and now I'm pretty much completely out of control. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Hmmm. Have you tried pregnancy yoga? I've never done it but I know a LOT of moms who say it helps them feel much more centered and in control of their pregnancies and what's going on with their bodies.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I've heard about it, and have been doing some regular yoga (very carefully of course) on my own. I guess I should see if there's anywhere close that offers it.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Local YMCAs, gyms, and community centers are the places that usually offer it, although some hospitals have classes as well.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Cool! That helps me know where to look. Now if only I didn't have to drive at least 20 miles. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
If you can't find a class close enough, there are books and DVDs available as well. Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Excellent! I'll be looking at DVDs too, since the few places I've found (looking online) within about 30 miles that offer pregnancy yoga have it during the day (when I'm at work).
Too bad I live in a "bedroom community" where there is no YMCA, no community center, and only 1 gym that I know of.
I was also having fun looking up pregnancy massage, since several of my friends have recommended it. That would make for a nice treat for when things get difficult.
[ August 21, 2007, 06:16 PM: Message edited by: ludosti ]
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
ludosti, I laughed out loud when I read
quote:I no longer feel like I know what is happening with my own body. It's like I've been body snatched!
It just feels so WEIRD to be pregnant. Not necessarily bad weird, and I've been really lucky about not feeling sick, etc.--but I keep telling my husband that being pregnant is just plain strange.
I've gained about 10 lbs so far, which I'd lost right before getting pregnant. It's kind of sad to get them back, but on the other hand, I'm pretty much on track with how much I'm "supposed" to gain. It took me a long time to gain the first 5 pounds, but the next 5 have happened pretty quickly, which is a tiny bit scary (even though I know it's OK and good). I lost about 60 lbs. 4 years ago and kept most of it off, so I'm a little paranoid. (Never fear--the paranoia is NOT keeping me from eating!!!)
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yeah, being "body snatched" is the best way I can think of to explain the strangeness of pregnancy.
Liz - That's so awesome that you're remaining relatively calm in spite of paranoia! My weight has always been a source of paranoia for me (though I've been much healthier in my attitude for the last 6-7 years). Pregnancy weight gain is one thing that I've really worried about and I'm trying really hard to balance my own worry with calm, rational thinking.
Posted by roxy (Member # 3416) on :
The strange thing with me is that I really don't eat that much more than I did before pregnancy. I do have a more balanced diet, but portions are pretty much the same with a small snack in between meals. I don't know why I've gained so much weight! I started out at 125 lbs and I've already ballooned up to 160 with two more months to go!
Posted by dawnmaria (Member # 4142) on :
I had my final ultrasound today before the baby is due and they estimate him to be between 11-12 pounds! I still have almost 3 weeks to go! I am going to be that weird lady you read about in the news with the 20 pound kid! At least I know now why it hurts to walk, he's destroyed my hips!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
dawnmaria, they're not going to induce you? Or have you already planned a section?
Although u/s weight measurements can be high by as much as 3 lbs., so I wouldn't be surprised if he's not as big as you fear.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Sonogram estimates can be off by several pounds. My 8.5 pounder was predicted to be 6-7 pounds. >_<
In any case, good luck! Posted by dawnmaria (Member # 4142) on :
They have me scheduled for a c on 9/8 unless my BP spikes before then. He's been bigger the whole time. The gestational diabetes is doing it even though I am keeping my numbers down. I would totally believe he is as big as they say just by how I feel. I never felt this heavy with Leslie and it never hurt so much getting whacked from within like this. I almost look freakish my tummy is so big. If he is that big at least I know what I've gained is all baby! I've gained 7. I think I may run around the building before my appointment on Friday and maybe then my pressure will be high enough to go to the hospital! Although I am dilating and he's dropping. We're 3cm at this point and I have been having contractions off and on for a couple of days. I think I lost my plug this afternoon. I am just out of patience and really want to see my feet again!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Ah, gestational diabetes will indeed tend to produce a bigger baby.
I totally remember the I'm-so-ready-for-this-to-be-over feeling!
Posted by dawnmaria (Member # 4142) on :
With my first baby, the diabetes didn't kick in until around week 26 so she was 8lbs 5oz. They told me before I even got pregnant I'd almost instantly get it again with another pregnancy so I went on the diabetic diet as soon as we knew I was pregnant. I didn't have to start the insulin shots until week 34 and that really was only because my numbers were creeping to borderline and we knew he was trending huge and hoped to slow him down. I guess that really didn't work! He was sucking on his little wrist today and playing with his feet. I know I complain about how much this physically sucks but truthfully, For someone who really thought I could never have kids, I just want to get him here safe and hug him tight. I am so nervous about him getting stuck. I really need them to tell me the vaginal window is closed now that they think he's beyond 10 pounds. I don't care what the C does to me, just get him out safe.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Wow!! Here's hoping he's not really that big! Good luck with your c-section! I'm sure he will be wonderful and beautiful!
I'm still waiting to be screened for gestational diabetes. I believe they're doing that at my next appointment (in a couple weeks). I'm nervous about it because of the history of diabetes (and gestational diabetes) in my family and I know that my age and being overweight only add to my chances.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
Hope your test goes well. I have weight issues and family history, but luckily did not have gestational diabetes. I did get sick from the test though.
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
Good luck with the c-section, dawnmaria!
Last time I was in labor, my contractions slowed down after having my epidural. I was given pitocin to speed the process back up. Does anyone know if my body would likely react the same way to an epidural this time? I can't seem to find any info on this topic online. As experience with this, ladies?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by divaesefani: Does anyone know if my body would likely react the same way to an epidural this time?
Yup. That's part of why many doctors won't give an epidural until after you're 4 cm dilated. At that point, if the epidural does slow things down, they have options -- such as breaking your water (which always sped things up for me).
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
There are also options such as using other techniques to delay getting an epidural until later-- toward the other end of the therapeutic window-- if you're in harder labor when you get it it may still slow you down, but not enough to need pitocin, just enough to get a little rest.
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
Last time I opted for my epidural after 13 hours of labor (out of 20), after I'd already had my water broken. Breaking my water sent me into pretty darn hard labor, which is why I asked for the epidural.
I guess I'm just trying to figure out if a stalled labor is a high possibility for me this time. I know no one here can answer that question definitely for me, but my next appointment isn't for another 2 weeks, and I feel silly calling in to the office to ask questions like this. I'm trying to get at least a general idea because I've had the previous c-section, so they won't like to use pitocin. That means if my labor stalls, it's in for a c-section, and if that happens, why didn't I just schedule it in the first place? Gahhh!! Too many questions! Too many possibilities!
Thanks for your responses, ladies. I do greatly appreciate it!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:I've had the previous c-section, so they won't like to use pitocin.
Actually, I've known some doctors to be okay with carefully monitored use of pitocin in a VBAC. It depends on the doctor and hospital.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Yup. My SIL had two attempts at a VBAC, and they used pitocin both times. (It didn't do the trick -- she had all Cs -- but that's a different story.)
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
Wow, I didn't know that. Everything that I've read so far said that pitocin increased the risk of rupture, so it was not used. I'll have to ask my doctor if it's a possibility at my next appointment.
Thanks again, ladies! You've been so great to answer my questions/ease my fears today!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by divaesefani: Everything that I've read so far said that pitocin increased the risk of rupture, so it was not used.
It does increase the risk. Sometimes that means using it with increased monitoring (at least in theory -- my SIL almost had some pretty serious complications with baby #2 because of lack of monitoring during shift change); some doctors and/or hospitals simply prefer to forgo the risk altogether. (Or are strongly encouraged by their insurance carriers to do so.)
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Just found out...
it's a boy!!!!!!!!!
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Congratulations! Just two more weeks until I can find out, too! That's so exciting!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm now on metformin, and probably clomid in 5 weeks time.
Hmmm, 1 in 20 chance of twins.
Posted by dawnmaria (Member # 4142) on :
KQ! That's wonderful!
I got a new date for my C section! 9/5! Only one more week! Thank the Lord! The little guy should only be about 14 pounds by then, right? Ha!
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
Liz, yay! A boy! I have so much fun with mine!
kq, yay! Good luck, and prayers with you.
Dawn, let the countdown begin! I'm glad they moved it up a little for you!
Posted by dawnmaria (Member # 4142) on :
It's going to be interesting. I am leaving one house to go to the hospital and have Jack and while I am recovering my Hubby is moving us into our new one. So I guess I'll be bringing Jack home to the new one. I am so thankful that my Mom lives so close. I don't think I could have a baby, care for a toddler and set up a new house without her help! We planned this to time out better but you know how it goes with the best laid plans! The new house was supposed to have been done in March! So much for that!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay Liz!! Congrats on your little boy!
Yay kq!! I'm so excited for you and I hope everything goes really well!!
Yay imogen!!! Hopefully the clomid and metformin will do the trick for you!!
Yay dawnmaria! I hope this last week of waiting isn't too terrible! Congrats on your new house and I'm so glad you have your Mom to help you get settled in!
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
I'll post congratulations here, too, KQ! Glad it feels sticky.
dawnmaria, I'll be thinking of you and little (see, good thoughts already ) Jack!
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Wow, kq - you just about caught up with me!
But not quite. We're having #4 in late Feb.
Congrats to all the mamas.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, I could have twins.
Wait, no, I take that back. NO TWINS PLEASE!!!
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
But...twins would be FUN!
<~ is not having twins.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Twins would be no fun.
I had a dream I was finding a new doctor because mine refused to even try to deliver twins vaginally the night before last. (I think he probably would be open to it. But I don't really want to have to go there.)
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Boon: But...twins would be FUN!
For whom, exactly?
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
In the four years since we got engaged, my husband has gone from "I might be open to a dog, at some point" to "Three sounds about right" and is now at "If you're going to manage those five boys before you're 30, we'd better be having twins at least." I've stayed pretty steady at "We'll see how the first one or two go and consider a third."
Posted by dawnmaria (Member # 4142) on :
Lissande, I know what you mean! We decided 2 was the magic number for us simply because we're afraid if the animals outnumber us they'll take over the zoo! And now that the house we're moving to is 3 bedrooms that pretty much cinches it! Oh and I am never doing this again so there's that as well. We're having everything tied off tomorrow while they're in there. I can't believe it's happening tomorrow! I am excited and scared all at the same time. I really can't wait to see Jack but am totally scared all at the same time. When we decided to for go all the testing at the beginning I tried to put the what if worries out of my mind but now that we're down to the wire I wonder if I did the right thing and what if yadda, yadda, yadda. If something is wrong would testing have prepared us or the docs better, etc. All will be well, all will be well, breathing, breathing.
Posted by dawnmaria (Member # 4142) on :
Oh! And now the day before his birth my Hubby is having 2nd thoughts about having him circumcised!
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
dawnmaria, yeah, housing is a consideration for us, too. In a two-bedroom apartment, having more than two kids you have to either move or start stacking them.
And let us know how it turns out (when you get a chance...). Good luck and don't forget to keep breathing! I'll be thinking of you tomorrow.
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
quote:Oh! And now the day before his birth my Hubby is having 2nd thoughts about having him circumcised!
Sounds like the window is slowly closing on that decision - hope your husband makes up his mind in time. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
We both started out wanting "6, maybe 7." But as we have more, I just can't see us stopping before 10. Maybe more. I'm not opposed to 14, though I doubt I'll get there. Jeff, while initially overwhelmed by this sentiment, seems to be getting used to it and is even starting to agree somewhat, now that he has a steady, decent job and good prospects for the future.
However, I don't want more than 3 until we've bought a house, because of space issues. Although if it is twins I think I can deal for a few months, we'll be at least renting a 3-bedroom before they get too big for bassinets! I could handle another year after this one is born in our two-bedroom, IF it's just one baby. I think at that point we'd have to move.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Good luck on your C-section tomorrow dawnmaria!!! I hope everything goes really well for all of you!!!
kq - I've always totally horrified when someone jokes about me having twins. I'm quick to point out there's only one baby, thank goodness! Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Good luck dawnmaria!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yes, happy baby day to you tomorrow and I hope you both come out of it healthy! Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
I was so relieved when the doctor said "heartbeat" and not "heartbeats"...
Happy birthing day to you and Jack, dawnmaria! Posted by School4ever (Member # 5575) on :
What is frustrating is when you want eight kids, and here you sit after 11 years of marriage with only one. And you know that you live in a state that will only let you have a max of six kids in the home when you have to go the adoption route.
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
quote:Originally posted by Lissande: dawnmaria, yeah, housing is a consideration for us, too. In a two-bedroom apartment, having more than two kids you have to either move or start stacking them.
My four cousins, for I don't know how many years, slept in bunk beds that had the four feet meet in the corner with two heads out each end. Like a V. If that makes sense.
Personally, I thought it was efficiently cool. Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Well, I had a doctor's appointment this morning and everything was fine with the baby. I have had a lot of stress in these last few weeks, so I was really worrying that it had a bad result. But I heard the heartbeat again, and I'm measuring just right. I'm just under 15 weeks, which is right where I thought I was.
The doc said I won't have my next ultrasound until the appt. after my next one, so that'll be 8 weeks. I'll be 23 weeks then. I don't want to wait so long! Ugh! I want to know which one I'm having.
I thought I had a UTI or a kidney infection because I'm having pain on the sides of my lower abdomen, just like I do with those infections. The test was negative, though, and the doctor told me it was round ligament pain (or something like that) which has to do with my uterus getting all pushy with the rest of my innards.
So, I'm glad all is well.
ETA: Oh, and I lost 5 pounds. Half of that was probably just because I was weighed in the morning, I'm always lighter in the morning. The weight loss isn't because of morning sickness, because I haven't had that problem. But I started out plenty overweight, and the doctor said that he usually sees pregnant women who start out over 200 pounds losing weight at least at first.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, I hate the round ligament pain. Hate it.
This baby does not like junk food. I am not allowed to eat anything too sweet or salty, and crave healthy foods. If I don't I throw up. I suppose it's good for me.
I started out with extra weight I hadn't lost since the last pregnancy (and maybe a little stress weight on top of that) but I'm now about 5.5 weeks along (well, by doctors' calculations, meaning counting from "last period", even though I didn't have one) and have managed to not gain any weight. So I guess it's for the best. I am, however, ALREADY noticing that my pants are tighter, even though I haven't gained any weight! What is up with that?
(Whoever says "twins", I'm gonna kill you. I can't wait to get to the doctor and prove that it is just ONE baby!)
And Jeff can't find the box with my maternity clothes in it, even though he swears he knows exactly what kind of box they were in. I am getting grumpy because I have a feeling I will need them within a month or two.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I wasn't going to say "twins." I was going to say "third child" and nod knowingly. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Has anyone heard from dawnmaria?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
She did just have a baby. I expect she'll be back in a week or two. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:Originally posted by rivka: I wasn't going to say "twins." I was going to say "third child" and nod knowingly.
Yeah, I'm hoping. Jeff keeps saying "twins." I've come this close to smacking him a couple of times.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:Originally posted by rivka: She did just have a baby. I expect she'll be back in a week or two.
She probably is barely home from the hospital, I would think. So I'd say it could be as soon as a few days and as long as a few weeks. Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I have an appointment with the fertility specialist on October 23rd.
Now I just have to convince my perinatologist's office staff to give me an appointment, even though I'm not pregnant. I've tried explaining that both Dr. Christmas (seriously, that's his name - his partners are Dr. Love and Dr. Head) and my OB want me seen before I get pregnant, but the receptionist keeps telling me that Dr. Christmas is a "doctor for pregnant ladies." I'll just call his service after 5 and ask for his personal voicemail or have my OB call.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Ooooh, office staff can be so annoying. I switched Emma's doctor last year because the office staff drove me nuts. Sounds like you like your doctor enough to stick it out though. I think getting the doctor to tell her to make an appt. is a good way to go with it.
Good luck!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Kat - Yay for everything going well! I know how yucky round ligament pain can be! I am trying to be hopeful that since I haven't had any for a couple weeks, maybe I'm past the worst of it. Hopefully you'll be in for a reprieve from the pain soon too.
kq - I'm sorry your clothes are already getting uncomfortable.
Well, at my 26 week checkup, the little ninja is doing great. My doctor says I'm measuring "just perfect" and I have finally gained a little weight. We didn't have time to do the glucose tolerance test (they hadn't mentioned I'd have to come in a little early for that and they were running late) so we'll do it next time. I had to break down over the weekend and finally buy maternity clothes. While I can still fit into a couple of my pairs of pants (one I even need a belt with still), they're not very comfortable and my shirts were rapidly approaching too short. I don't particularly like to shop and it is so frustrating to try to find plus size maternity clothes (and not spend a million dollars too). It's also really hard trying to balance the new clothing with the fact that, at my job, I often get dirty and greasy and ruin clothes. Luckily, I was able to buy a few used t-shirts for cheap so I won't feel too bad if I ruin them. I did find a few cute nicer things that I can wear the rest of the time (and after I quit work).
I'm also feeling overwhelmed about trying to choose which hospital I want to deliver at (there are 2 I can choose from) and finding a pediatrician. I plan to take tours of both maternity wards and talk to a couple friends that have had babies recently, but I don't know what else to do. I've never been hospitalized before (I've been to the ER twice in my life) so I don't even really know what things I should be looking for. What advice can you moms give me?
Mrs.M - I'm sorry the office staff are being dense. I'd imagine a quick call from your OB should straighten that right out.
[ September 12, 2007, 01:28 PM: Message edited by: ludosti ]
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I found that JC Penny online was my best source for plus-sized maternity clothes that looked respectable for work without costing a fortune.
As far as the hospital, some questions might be do they have Labor, Delivery, Recovery, Postpartum (LDRP) suites, or will you be moved around? In some hosptials the room you check into is the room are in for your whole stay. Others will move you after the baby is born. Ask about pre-registration so that you can just walk in and skip the registration desk when the time comes. If you plan on natural childbirth, ask how they support that choice (squat bar, birthing ball, jacuzzi tubs, etc). If you plan on an epidural, ask if they have an anesthesiologist to do that in the building 24/7 or if s/he is just on-call. Ask if they have high level intensive care facilities for newborns (and moms) and if not where the baby (and/or you) will be transfered in case something goes wrong. Ask if they have wifi, so you can keep Hatrack updated on your progress.
Edit: If you have a birthplan, take a copy along and see if they blanch when they read it.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
quote:Originally posted by rivka: She did just have a baby. I expect she'll be back in a week or two.
I know. I just wanted to know how she and baby were doing. Well I hope! Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Well, the ligament pain seems to have let up. I did have some really sharp pains in the middle of my lower abdomen last night. The pain subsided when I laid on my side or stood up. It was worse when I moved and changed positions. It kinda felt like gas pain, although that's usually much higher. It was very sharp, which is just very odd for me.
Think it's baby-related or just gas?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Was it sort of a stretchy pain?
Posted by dawnmaria (Member # 4142) on :
Hi Guys! We moved the day after I got out of the hospital so I just now got the laptop up and running! Jack is great! He was 11 pounds 13 ounces and 22 and a half inches long! I've lost 30 pounds since the birth. Most was baby! He's not sleeping well yet at night but we're working on it. I am tired and trying to keep up at this point. I have had my Mom here the past few days and my Hubby will be with me until Wednesday next week so we're in good shape I think. Thanks for all the well wishes. I'll try to post a pic: http://www.darthunix.com/pics/displayimage.php?album=161&pos=6 He's almost as big as his sister! I might not be on as much the next few days so good luck to all of you with your babies!
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
He's cute! And huge! Congratulations!
I have news as well...*drumroll* It's a boy! It was so amazing to see my little baby on that screen. Everything was as it should be (two arms, two legs, two kidneys, good spine, cerebellum, bladder, stomach, good strong heart), and all in the right range size-wise. They didn't change my due date at all.
I've been grinning all day!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
He is huge! Guess that estimate was right on the money.
Congrats! Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
Congrats to dawnmaria and hansenj!!! I am so glad my baby wasn't that big. And the ultrasound is really exciting. My husband and I were talking about it afterwards. The weird thing inside me went from an it, to a baby and more importantly, a daughter. And if we have a daughter, that makes us parents.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
What a big boy. Congratulations dawnmaria!! And welcome Jake. Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
Wow! I can't imagine having an 11 pound baby! Congratulations to dawnmaria and the whole family!
Also, wonderful news, hansenj! Start making all your little-boy plans! Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
I'm so happy for you, dawnmaria! He's cute!
I'm happy for your news, too, hansenj! Boys are so much fun!
4 weeks and counting for me. The end is in sight!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Congratulations dawnmaria!
And yay for boys, hansenj. We can't wait to find out what we're having, Emma has been asking for weeks already Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Boo has been insisting that *he* has a baby in *his* belly, too. And his baby is a boy, and is named Maurico.
I have a doctor's appointment tomorrow. I'm taking a huge long list of questions to ask him, as well as the summaries of some studies I've read that refute what he said last time. I'm not really looking to make him mad, I just want to know where he got his numbers. If he pulled them out of his butt, I'm finding another provider.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay dawnmaria!! I can't even imagine an 11 pound baby!! That's a major accomplishment!!
Congrats on your little boy hansenj!! It's so amazing to see that little tiny person and so comforting when all the bits are as they should be.
Good luck with your doctor's appointment tomorrow Boon. I hope if this doc isn't the one for you that you can find a good one quickly!
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Congratulations, dawnmaria! He doesn't even look like a newborn - he looks like a beautiful 3-month-old.
Yay for boys, hansenj!
I hope you're not too uncomfortable, divaesefani.
Boon, I sympathize. We had a surgical consult in Newport News and I didn't like the guy, what he had to say, or how he said it. He will not be involved in Aerin's surgery in any way. Good for you for doing your own research and sticking to your guns!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Boon, how did the appointment go?
And is there anything worse than being pregnant AND sick? My voice is almost gone, my nose is runny and conjested at the same time, and I've had a three-day headache-- all this on top of the normal pregnancy stuff. Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
I have the same thing. This cold is driving me absolutely nuts just as I get to into week 13 and am suppose to be feeling better. Add to that a headache and neck ache that won't seem to go away and avoidance of medicine and I am really grouchy these days. Although seeing the cute baby pics and hearing about people finding out if its a boy or girl make me smile and think about how happy I'll be when its my turn.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, I'm looking forward to the end of the first trimester. Although I actually had "morning" sickness until about 7 months the first time around, hope that doesn't happen this time...
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I'm so sorry you guys are sick. That has to be awful.
I'm really hoping I don't get sick this week. Every time we go visit my inlaws I get a cold. I'm having lots of fun visiting (even the plane ride wasn't bad) and really really don't want to get sick. So far I'm doing well, so I'm hoping I can keep it up. After we get back, I'll experiment with not taking my anti-nausea meds and see if I can finally go off them (I'm taking so many pills, I'm really getting tired of it).
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
Looking for advice on prenatal classes.
I'm having trouble finding one in my area that isn't held during the middle of the day (doesn't everyone work??) and/or doesn't cost hundreds of dollars.
Are they worth it, or should I just sort of wing it? Is there some website I can gather the important information and share with my husband, or is it the sort of thing you really need to do in person?
Thoughts?
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
It depends on the class, and on what type of birth you're planning. I wanted natural childbirth and after reading 3-4 books there was nothing presented in our pre-natal classes that I didn't already have a pretty good grasp on. In fact, I probably could have taught the class.
Bob, however, learns better by hearing than by reading, (and he hadn't been reading as obsessively as I was) so he got more out of it. Plus the teacher (jokingly) assigned us to write a poem in honor of the placenta as homework, and he really got into it.
I don't think it was worth hundreds of dollars, though, either way. The exception might be if you're taking a specific type of class, like the Bradly Method or something along those lines.
The important part is getting a tour of the hospital and talking to the nurses on the maternity floor, but you can probably set that up yourself or have your doctor arrange it for you. And if you are writing a birth plan, have your doctor review it first and then take it along when you tour the hospital. It helps to focus the conversation if they know that you've already done your homework and have some idea what you're talking about.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
Lissande- are you planning on natural delivery? Most of the information in my class, I could have found online. The benefit of doing the class in person is learning/practicing the relaxation techniques. Since I did an epidural pretty quick, relaxing wasn't a big problem for me. My sister in law did it natural so the classes were more important for her. My classes were offered by the hospital. Your obgyn might be able to tell you about some good resources.
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
Thanks for your advice - I'm not decided on whether I want an epidural and how natural I want to go - I'm giving birth in a hospital, but if I can make it without the epidural I probably will. Don't really want to commit myself before I know what labor is like for me.
I would like to at least be aware of different techniques, particularly ways my husband can be helpful during labor (massage back, whatever), and anything else to expect or prepare for. I've been to the hospital I'll deliver at, and would attend their childbirth classes as well, but they are one of the ones offered for 90 minute sessions during the work day - I could do that, since my maternity leave starts tomorrow (taking the rest of my vacation before it officially starts Oct 1), but my husband works, and I think it would help him to attend with me.
And I was SLIGHTLY exaggerating with the hundreds of dollars comment - I had just seen a class offered for $200, which seemed totally inappropriate. The most expensive courses I've seen otherwise are under $75. Which still seems a bit high, but whatever.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I think ours was around $80, but it was six sessions, so it didn't seem that out of line. Having your husband there is very important -- it gets you both on the same page and provides an opportunity to discuss your preferences in different situations. If you're going to go by yourself you might as well just read a book. (IMO, of course.)
And speaking of books, Bob said that Father's First Steps by Drs. Bob & Jim Sears was the book (of the several he tried) that really helped him feel confident about his role in the birth process.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
If you want to do a natural delivery (no drugs/epidural) then I highly recommend a real lamaze/childbirth class that focuses on relxation techniques. Ask first. I ended up signing up for one that basically assumed we were all getting drugs/epi and the breathing/relaxation exercises were a joke.
Of course, I loved my epi and won't go any other way now that I've experienced it, but it would have been nice to have real options. :=)
Just so you have a perspective from someone who used and loved the epidural, here's how it went for me:
I was undecided until a few days before I delivered, when I went into the hospital on a false alarm and the nurse told me to, "Come back when it really hurts." I decided then and there that I was too wimpy to go it alone.
I went into the hospital with hard labor pains at about 5:00 in the morning. At 8:00 I got my epidural and there was almost immediate relief. Yeah, I couldn't move anymore but I wasn't moving anyway -- it hurt too much! My husband and I then passed a very pleasant day playing cards and reading Harry Potter together. At 3:00 the contractions were coming so hard and close that I could feel them through the epi so we turned on the TV and waited for permission to start pushing -- which came as Oprah started (4:00).
I had no trouble feeling the urge to push through the epidural and I delivered at 4:37. (Average first time moms push for 2 hours -- so that's fast!)
They put him on my stomach immediately and I actually cried. It was pretty emotional. After they weighted and checked him I was able to nurse him for the first time.
The epidural made my legs feel rubbery for about 2 hours after they took it out and then I could walk no problem. By the next day I was more bored than anything else.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I loved my epidurals, especially the last one. But I've heard really great things about HypnoBabies if you don't want an epidural but are unsure of your ability to focus using Lamaze techniques (which do NOTHING for me, but guided relaxation helps a TEENY bit, moving makes the pain worse for me, and my bp drops so low after a while they won't let me move anyway...) Anyway, that's another option. I've decided I'm getting an epidural every time, because I love them. I played Hangman, sang along with music, and watched M*A*S*H (because the dvd player didn't work) last labor. It was awesome. I knew I was in transition when Hawkeye wasn't funny all of a sudden and I made my husband turn off the tv and get the nurse. Sure enough as we were waiting for her I felt the need to push, and when they checked me I was ready to go! Yay for epidurals!
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
So if I could always feel my contractions through the epidural, does that mean that the epidural worked differently for me or that I was in pretty heavy labor when I got it?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
It could mean either. Or it could have been that you register pressure as pain (I do. But last time they gave me a narcotic as well as an epidural, good stuff. So I kinda forgot I was in pain even as the pain was going on.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(I do know that the second time it also worked better because they gave it to me earlier.)
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by dawnmaria: Hi Guys! We moved the day after I got out of the hospital so I just now got the laptop up and running! Jack is great! He was 11 pounds 13 ounces and 22 and a half inches long! I've lost 30 pounds since the birth. Most was baby! He's not sleeping well yet at night but we're working on it. I am tired and trying to keep up at this point. I have had my Mom here the past few days and my Hubby will be with me until Wednesday next week so we're in good shape I think. Thanks for all the well wishes. I'll try to post a pic: http://www.darthunix.com/pics/displayimage.php?album=161&pos=6 He's almost as big as his sister! I might not be on as much the next few days so good luck to all of you with your babies!
Wow! Your son was almost twice as big as mine when he was born. OUCH!
Congratulations. He's adorable.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Oh, I didn't mind feeling the contractions still. In fact, I'm seriously considering not getting an epidural next time. I was just wondering.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I didn't have an epidural or any drugs, but I didn't end up using any of the pattern breathing or "techniques" from the one session of our class that dealt with it. I tried at one point, but it felt kind of stupid and I was doing just fine with breathing in whatever way felt right at the time. So that's what I did.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: Boon, how did the appointment go?
Let's just say I'm feeling very unsupported in my wishes for this birth; both my husband and my mother are very afraid and basing their opinions and demands on their fears instead of on the research and my wishes.
I'm tired already of the "ifs." I can have a VBAC "if" I go into labor spontaneously by 41 weeks. I can have a VBAC "if" I'm making "sufficient progress" during labor. I can do it "if" I'm a good little patient and let the doctor make all the decisions for me. Gag.
I am not broken. I am more than a uterus, and it's not on the verge of exploding. I will give birth, and it will be beautiful.
Sorry. /rant
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Sorry Boon.
I'm presuming your husband and mother have a founding for their fear?
Still, not stress you need, and it sounds like you know what you want, and it is, after all, your body.
Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
quote:I knew I was in transition when Hawkeye wasn't funny all of a sudden and I made my husband turn off the tv and get the nurse.
"I'm sorry, but you're not in transition. The show just jumped the shark this season."
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:Originally posted by Boon:
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: Boon, how did the appointment go?
Let's just say I'm feeling very unsupported in my wishes for this birth; both my husband and my mother are very afraid and basing their opinions and demands on their fears instead of on the research and my wishes.
I'm tired already of the "ifs." I can have a VBAC "if" I go into labor spontaneously by 41 weeks. I can have a VBAC "if" I'm making "sufficient progress" during labor. I can do it "if" I'm a good little patient and let the doctor make all the decisions for me. Gag.
I am not broken. I am more than a uterus, and it's not on the verge of exploding. I will give birth, and it will be beautiful.
Sorry. /rant
I assume you are familiar with ICAN? I'm sure you are. They can't make you go along with their ifs. You have the right to choose your treatment. (((hugs))) I'm sure it will work out.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
All right, I have a question that's going to totally go against the grain of what I know you're supposed to do. But the thing is, multivitamins make me sick. I don't even take the gut-wrenching prenatals that you need a prescription to get...just over the counter multi-vitamins that have all the recommended levels of whatever for pregnant and trying to conceive women. They make me sick. Half the time I get nauseous and about once every two weeks I actually throw up.
When I was pregnant with my son, I would go for a few days and then stop for a few days until 4 months, when I quit entirely. He 100% fine, btw.
Since we started trying a few months ago I've been back in the on again off again vitamin thing. My husband thinks I should quit. He has absolutely no faith in manufactured vitamins and I can't entirely disagree with him. My body sure doesn't seem to like them.
I'm in an on again mode this week, mostly because I found out for sure that I'm pregnant, but I just hate them. Yesterday they went past nausea and gave me a piercing headache (and this is too early for morning sickness....I just missed my period).
So, now that I'm done ranting, does anyone have any thoughts on prenatal vitamins? Is there anything else I can do? I try to eat well. Could I just drink orange juice every day or something?
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
If you want to keep taking them, try taking them right before you go to bed.
Studies have shown that taking prenatal vitamins reduces the risk of a lot of nasty things. That does not mean that if you don't take them your kid will have any of the nasty problems -- after all women have been having babies for thousands of years before anyone knew anything about vitamins.
If it were me and I could not take them I'd be most worried about the folic acid. But whole wheat has a lot of that, as does asparagus and spinach. So I'd eat a lot of those, and look up other foods high in folate. Higher risk of spinal bifida with possible paralysis, and mental retardation is something I'm willing to do quite a bit to avoid, even if the chances are pretty low anyway.
eta: I have heard that many women find the prescription prenatals less noxious than the over the counter kind.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I did a look up of foods high in folic acid a long time ago and I eat many of them on a daily basis. One of the best sources is a bowl of breakfast cereal, actually.
Also, folic acid needs to be in your system at the time of conception or it's too late. So if I didn't do well enough between the vitamin every other day and all the asparagus, peas, spinach, broccoli, and cauliflower I eat for dinner then the damage is done.
I'll try the bedtime thing, though, and see if that helps.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
(just an aside, more a clarification -- the current recommendation is for folic acid supplementation for 1 month prior to conception and at least 3 months afterward)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:folic acid needs to be in your system at the time of conception or it's too late.
Well, not really. See, folic acid does different things at different times. Although if you don't take it for the first two months it isn't there at the recommended levels to reduce the risks of some things, for others you need it as far along as the second trimester.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I wasn't on any prenatals before conception since I wasn't exactly planning to get pregnant. It was freaking me out, but my doctor said that the risk was low and that my baby should be okay. Perhaps she was just trying to placate me, I don't know.
I don't like asparagus and peas, and we really don't eat cauliflower in my home, although I think it is tolerable. I love broccoli, but I don't think we happened to be eating it much for months before. *sigh*
I wish this whole folic acid thing were publicized a bit more. I had no idea until AFTER I got pregnant.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
The fact that you need it in your system prior to conception is why so many foods are fortified with the stuff -- that way even if you're not planning to get pregnant you're not totally deficient in it if you've eaten breakfast cereals or anything made with enriched flour.
Posted by grammargoddess (Member # 10828) on :
What baby is everyone on? We are waiting on #4 due Easter weekend. We had a boy, then 2 girls.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by Katarain: I wasn't on any prenatals before conception since I wasn't exactly planning to get pregnant. It was freaking me out, but my doctor said that the risk was low and that my baby should be okay. Perhaps she was just trying to placate me, I don't know.
I don't like asparagus and peas, and we really don't eat cauliflower in my home, although I think it is tolerable. I love broccoli, but I don't think we happened to be eating it much for months before. *sigh*
I wish this whole folic acid thing were publicized a bit more. I had no idea until AFTER I got pregnant.
He wasn't just making you feel better...the odds really are low. 7 in 10,000 births last I read, or less than .1%.
There is a lot of information out there about folic acid. Perhaps gynecologists should discuss it with all women of child bearing age. They WILL talk about it if you say you're trying.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I don't eat a lot of breakfast cereals, but I probably eat a lot of stuff with enriched flour. So, that's good.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
One of our major projects at the March of Dimes is folic acid education and awareness. I've been taking it for years. Here's some info.
I cannot extol the virtues of prenatal vitamins enough. Particularly those with omega-3 fatty acids. I took DuetDHA even before conceiving Aerin (I'm on them now, in fact) and she was the only 26-weeker the docs had ever seen that didn't have any brain bleeds. They made me plenty sick, but I'm so thankful that I took them anyway - Aerin needed all the help she could get.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
OK, so this is old news now, but congratulations to dawnmaria anyway! What a cute, cute baby!
I decided not to worry about the folic acid. I wasn't trying to get pregnant (was happy to get pregnant nonetheless), but according to my mypyramid stats, I was still getting lots of it through food. (Before the pregnancy-induced vegetable aversion, we ate lots and lots of spinach, broccoli, etc. etc. etc.)
But given what I've read, if we decide we even might have another child, I'll be sure to take a supplement.
Posted by dawnmaria (Member # 4142) on :
Jack had his 2 week check up today. What I thought was just a little rash or baby acne turns out to be a staph infection. They put him on Ceflex and some phiso-something soap to bath with a couple of times. I a little paranoid that he's going to have a reaction to the antibiotic. He's been fussy and super gassy all day. I don't know what else to do for him. Hubby just got him to go to sleep finally. As soon as I get the Princess down I am going to take a shower and pass out! This was my first day out and about with both kids alone. I feel like I got my butt kicked. How do you go to the bathroom with a toddler and a stroller? I had Leslie stand by the door where I could see her feet and told her to hold Jack's stroller and tell me if anybody came in the room. I had her sing her Abc's and it worked out fine but it's nerve racking! Just getting everyone in the car seems like a major production! I think my running around days may be over for a little while!
Posted by dawnmaria (Member # 4142) on :
And to all of you out there that have more kids then I do I tip my hat! I do not know how you do it!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:How do you go to the bathroom with a toddler and a stroller?
Handicapped stall. Or double stroller and handicapped stall.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I'm in my 16th week, and I've been having this weird pain that mostly occurs about an inch below and to the left of my belly button. Baby kicking shouldn't hurt at this stage, right?
But I'm quite sensitive to pain, so I was thinking that maybe it IS the baby and it's just my pain receptors kicking in as usual. It's a bit of a sharp pain that's almost like an irregular pulse--the pain seems to come in batches for a minute or several. After that happened some last night, I got a similar pain that was persistent on the other side--that hurt much worse and didn't pulse (go on and off) at all. I had to curl up in a ball on my side to get it to go away. I'm pretty sure THAT wasn't the baby.
I've been having the first pain on and off today, and sometimes it's lower, where I imagine the baby actually is. It doesn't feel like worrisome pain, it's not really intense, just more sharp and localized.
Should I worry? Perhaps it's just more round ligament pain? The pain that the doctor identified as round ligament pain last time was lower and on the sides (felt like kidney pain), but I guess you can feel it all over?
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I've heard of babies managing to get in just the wrong position to pinch nerves and cause pains like that, but usually we're talking 3d trimester...at this point the baby is still quite tiny. Kicks are usually more like flutters. They can get painful later on when the baby is bigger and kicks a rib or something.
It couldn't hurt to call your doctor and ask, right? I'm sure it's nothing, but that's what the doctor is there for. Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Yeah, I have a call into the nurse, and I'm sure they'll call me soon.
I figured I might as well call now, since I don't want to be worried about it over the weekend and not have anyone to call.
Posted by grammargoddess (Member # 10828) on :
Probably round ligament (though Doctors tend to poohpooh any pain as round ligament lol) But if the other pain is bad and on the right side, gallbladder problems are common in pregnancy. Also, hernias. But if this is your first baby it's probably not a hernia. Since it comes and goes and isn't too too bad, it probably is round ligament.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I get "round ligament" pain all the time and everywhere once I hit about 13 weeks. I wouldn't be surprised if that's what it is. Also just funky nerve pains because my joints stretch, pull a muscle out of whack, and then a nerve gets pinched. Ick.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I talked to the nurse, who was talking to the doctor in the background. He said that there was some muscle (I think it was a muscle) in that area and behind the bellybutton, which even extends to the bladder, and that's it often starts hurting around the 16th week, if it's going to hurt at all. And it's nothing to worry about, so yay! Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
On another note, I had an ultrasound on August 2, which was at 12 weeks based on my LMP (due 2-14-2008). OB says I measured 13w5d, so he moved my due date FORWARD 13 days to 2-27-2008. Shouldn't it have been moved BACKWARDS instead, if at all, or am I crazy?
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by Boon: On another note, I had an ultrasound on August 2, which was at 12 weeks based on my LMP (due 2-14-2008). OB says I measured 13w5d, so he moved my due date FORWARD 13 days to 2-27-2008. Shouldn't it have been moved BACKWARDS instead, if at all, or am I crazy?
Whoope, I just realized that you said the u/s was on August 2nd...ignore what I said before if you read it....yeah, your doctor is messed up. You should be due Feb. 2...here's a good calculator so you can check the dates...it goes forwards and backwards and tells you how far along you are...
Don't correct him. You just got an extra 13 days (or 26, depending on how you look at it) before your doctor wants to rule out the possibility of VBAC. Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Hehehe, that's exactly what I'm thinking. Unfortunately, he'll have another opportunity to correct his mistake at my next appointment, since he wants to do the "20 week ultrasound" then (I'll be 22 1/2 weeks by LMP then, and will probably have a 24 week baby. )
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
It sounds to me like you need to find another OB (again.) *sigh*
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Nah, I'm done doctor shopping. I've found a midwife who will act as doula for me if I decide to go to the hospital at all.
I know it will sound crazy to most everyone here, but I'm seriously considering homebirth at this point. It's not that I don't think I might need a doctor, or that I absolutely hate hospitals or anything like that...I've just come to the realization that I most likely won't need any interventions and don't want to fight over every little thing while I'm in labor. And I'm not that far from the hospital (same one we went to while you were here, kq) if something should happen to warrant medical intervention.
And before anyone jumps on me for "taking chances" or whatever, I'm making an informed decision. And I haven't completely decided yet. So, there it is.
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Boon, I'm fairly certain at least one family on here has had a homebirth (possibly two). You are making the decision right for you.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Boon, I think that's a great option as long as you take the proper precautions (ie have a trained midwife attending your birth who will know if/when you need the hospital down the road). My MIL had a home birth for 3 of her 6 kids and swears by them. If it weren't for my desperate desire to get an epidural...
I ran across a woman on a mothering board who I thought was nuts -- decided for her 5th child (3 and 4 were c-sections) that she was done with doctors, midwives, prenatal care, and all interventions. She was going to do it herself at home.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I think that might be a good idea if you just can't find a doctor/hospital that will respect your wishes.
Also remember that if you go into labor and something doesn't feel right, any hospital you go to MUST admit you and respect your treatment wishes (meaning no section until you say so) once you are in active labor. So, if you, say, decided to see a midwife for your prenatal care, but decided once you were in labor that you didn't feel right about the homebirth, you could change your mind.
I know two women personally who have had successful home VBACs. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(My one biggest concern is that you have support. If your family was having problems with a hospital VBAC, what are they going to say about a home VBAC?
I'll tell you what. If they don't support you, come out here, and you can have the baby with us. )
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
Boon, I'm sorry your doctors/hospitals make you fight for every little thing. That does not sound fun! I've been given pretty much free reign to do whatever I darn well please. I'm sorry more doctors/hospitals are not like that.
As for me, I've decided that if I go into labor on my own, to do a VBAC. If I don't go into labor, I have a c-section scheduled for October 8th. My doctor offered to induce me. I don't think I'm comfortable with that when it comes to VBAC. I don't mind if I need pitocin to keep my labor going if I go into labor on my own, but it scares me to induce labor using it when I've had a c-section before. We decided if we're going to schedule something, it's going to be a repeat C, not an induction.
Since I'm technically full term (although not 40 weeks) I'm working my reflexology points to try and stimulate labor. Hopefully it will help get things going and give my body the best chance of actually going into labor on it's own. We'll see if it works!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
You know what's nasty, but did speed up ripening of the cervix and such for me? Cumin tea. Seriously, just an infusion of whole cumin seeds.
But like I said, pretty nasty.
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
Good to know! Thanks for the advice. I'll get right on that. Seriously, even if it is nasty. I'll try it!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, it's apparently an old Mexican midwives' folk remedy for women who are overdue or whose labor is not progressing.
It did get me thinning and dilating, like I said, so I was ready to be induced when they wanted to induce me without additional intervention.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Boon, my Mum had my brother at home (not VBAC), but second child after one hospital birth (me, 6.5 years earlier)
She had midwives, it went brilliantly - she went into labour sometime in the night, Joe was born at 5am ( I remember going to sleep and all was normal, and being woken to see the birth - I cut the cord.)
The biggest thing for her was having very competent midwives, and a very good hospital nearby, if needs be.
(I should also say - my Mum is a doctor - she knew the risks, and judged them worthwhile. She really wanted the homebirth experience.)
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
It's funny - the more I read this thread, the more I remember how atypical my pregnancy was and how atypical the next one will be, even if I go to term. No cumin tea for me - they'll be double-stitching my cervix shut at 13 weeks. I'll also be getting weekly blood tests and shots, so I'll get junkie arm again (I have very weak veins). Yet I'm still so excited to have another baby.
Boon, is there a middle ground that everyone would feel comfortable with? I have a couple of friends who went to birthing centers and loved them. They had a more home-like environment and optional birthing tubs and a full midwife and nursing staff. They also had full-time emergency transport to a hospital available. It seemed really ideal. I'm sorry that you have to be so stressed out during your pregnancy.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
This isn't really about me, but I'm so excited that I wanted to share with people who will appreciate it.
My sister-in-law and good friend is due with her second in October. She delivered her first baby without an epidural, but there were many things about the birth that she didn't like and would do differently now. Basically, she felt like the birth was a lot more painful and a lot less natural than it needed to be. (One thing she hated was the fact that her doctor induced her just because she [the doctor] was going on vacation and didn't want the baby to come while she was gone.)
Anyway, she'd heard about hypnobirthing from a friend and was very interested in learning more about it. She has now read a book on hypnobirthing, and she and her husband are going to classes. I've been interested to see how her birth experience goes this time.
The exciting part is that I was browsing Craigslist the other day and found a listing for free services from a doula-in-training who is also a licensed hypnobirthing specialist. I immediately thought of my sister-in-law, who not only is trying to improve her second birth with hypnobirthing, but who is very poor. I called her and told her about the listing, and she emailed the lady. My sister-in-law has now heard back, and she has a hypnobirthing specialist doula-in-training scheduled to be there when the baby comes! She also gets a consultation before the birth and one after.
I'm so excited for her! I mean, even if this lady is a bad doula because of inexperience, she's still a hypnobirthing specialist. And I think it will be nice to have someone to insist on following the birth plan when the doctors get pushy and mama's concentrating on getting through contractions.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
quote:Originally posted by Brinestone: One thing she hated was the fact that her doctor induced her just because she [the doctor] was going on vacation and didn't want the baby to come while she was gone.
Um, yeah. Time for a new doctor. It's one thing to schedule an induction when the mother and doctor are in agreement. For the doctor to press for one for his/her own convenience when the mother wants to go natural is just . . . just . . . Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by dkw:
quote:Originally posted by Brinestone: One thing she hated was the fact that her doctor induced her just because she [the doctor] was going on vacation and didn't want the baby to come while she was gone.
Um, yeah. Time for a new doctor. It's one thing to schedule an induction when the mother and doctor are in agreement. For the doctor to press for one for his/her own convenience when the mother wants to go natural is just . . . just . . .
As far as I can tell, this is very, VERY common practice nowadays. I've talked to half a dozen OB's in the recent past and ALL of them would induce so that they would be there for the birth rather than having you get whoever was on call. OB's just don't work 24/7 anymore. They have office hours and they take turns being on call with other doctors in their practice or hospital.
The key for a patient is that they can always refuse to do the induction and go with the on-call doctor whenever the baby decides to come. But seeing how common this practice is, I can't honestly say it's time to get rid of the doctor for it. More like, make sure you know what you want and demand it.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
quote:For the doctor to press for one for his/her own convenience when the mother wants to go natural is just . . . just . . . --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
As far as I can tell, this is very, VERY common practice nowadays. I've talked to half a dozen OB's in the recent past and ALL of them would induce so that they would be there for the birth rather than having you get whoever was on call. OB's just don't work 24/7 anymore. They have office hours and they take turns being on call with other doctors in their practice or hospital.
I don't know about that. It certainly hasn't been my experience, either in Roanoke or in Richmond. My cousins have had a lot of babies in Georgia, too, and they've never had those issues, either. When I was in the hospital with Aerin, my OB came every day at 7am before her office hours and at 7pm when she left for the day. She came every weekend day, too. She even brought her own 9-month-old baby when she had to, which I really enjoyed. She also came to see me every night she was on call. Not to mention the times she rushed up from her office when I had emergencies.
I would have switched doctors in skinny minute if he wanted to induce me for his own convenience. I think it is vitally important to have a good relationship with your OB and no one should ever settle for any less.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I wouldn't dump a doctor who said, "I'll be leaving on vacation next week, so we can either induce labor this week or you can meet Dr. Z who will be on-call while I'm gone." It doesn't sound like Brinestone's sister-in-law was given that option. (Obviously she could have refused the induction, but that might not have been obvious to her as a young mom having her first baby.)
A doctor who said, "I'm going to be leaving on vacation next week, so we'll schedule your induction for Thursday" would not be my doctor after that statement.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I actually called every OB group on my health insurance and they all worked the same way -- regular office hours and rotating on-call. They also were all quite happy to induce to guarantee that they would deliver your baby. BUT no, there was no forcing the issue. I guess I didn't read Brinestone's post that way. I assumed it was part of the standard operating procedure I have (unfortunately) become familiar with in this area. That's why, in the end, I went with a small 2-person practice so at least I would know who would be on-call if my doctor couldn't make my labor.
Mrs. M -- I'm jealous! I would love it to work like that. I think small town vs. big city has a lot to do with it. My husband is a small town boy and he was absolutely appalled when he found out how things worked around here. He was the one who insisted I call around until I found someone who did things the right way.
The only other thing it might be, other than small town/big city, is an insurance limitation. They like the big groups because they charge less for the less personal service.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
My doctor was delivering about 12 babies the day I was in (and 10 the day before) when I had Bridey because he had scheduled a bunch of c-sections and inductions for the week before he left for a one-week vacation. BUT I am sure he presented each patient with options-- "I can induce you now, or you can wait until I get back and take your chances with the on-call doc if you go into labor" (or have a different doc do your c-section for those ladies who were planning a section and it was time-sensitive.) Now, I am a special case because all his partners are women and he knows I have a phobia of being seen undressed by a female doctor. So he phrased it a bit differently for me: "I'm going out of town. We'd talked about inducing you, and I think this is the time to do it, because I know you don't want to see my partners, and I'm worried you might go into labor while I'm gone." But the spirit of the statement was the same (and I love that he is willing to take my needs into account even though they're irrational and strange. On occasion he even interrupted a family event to come treat me even though he was NOT the doctor on call because he knew I could not handle being treated by his partners. He gave me his cell phone number for the weekends his partners were on call. I love my doctor.)
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Boon, if you're interested in homebirth and a VBAC, mothering.com is a great forum to get some more info and speak with people who've done it.
We have almost the same due date, by the way...I'm 2/24. Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I read on another forum where a woman is 4 days from her due date, and since the baby had shown no signs of arriving, she was scheduling an induction for her due date.
I didn't say anything, since I haven't given birth yet, and what do I know, right? But I hear that induced labor is much more painful than natural labor, and I can't understand going through that just because you're tired of being pregnant. I figure if the baby hasn't come yet, it's because it's not done yet!
No one will be inducing me. No way, uh uh. Well, unless there was a big emergency that was threatening the life of my baby. But that's the ONLY way. I don't care if the little one is weeks late. I'm fairly sure it'll come when it's ready.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
In principle I agree with you. But more because of the "baby will come when s/he's ready part" than the "why would you want to go through that" part. Because by two weeks before due date I was ready to go through just about anything to get that kid out of there. Fortunately he was ready too and I went into labor that weekend.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I haven't gotten to that point in my pregnancy...I imagine I'll want to get it over with, too. I've just made the decision now to resist that impulse.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I was induced two days after my due date, not because I was late, but because my water had broken hours before and I was still not having contractions hard enough to feel.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I think that's a little different, though. Once your water breaks, you're pretty much stuck, right? If labor isn't progressing, you've got to do something.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by dkw: In principle I agree with you. But more because of the "baby will come when s/he's ready part" than the "why would you want to go through that" part. Because by two weeks before due date I was ready to go through just about anything to get that kid out of there. Fortunately he was ready too and I went into labor that weekend.
For me it was more than that. I had contractions for about three weeks before my due date -- I guess they were the false labor pains but they felt pretty real and they came regularly every 20 minutes for about 2 weeks. It was making me crazy, physically and emotionally, so my doctor scheduled an induction the day after my due date. Turns out to have been unnecessary because I happened to go into labor for real that day, but still....it also didn't help that it was the week before Thanksgiving and I didn't want to be in the hospital over the Holidays.
Assuming that this one sticks (and it's so early it's still a very big risk) then I am going to try my hardest to be more patient this time. Not because it turned out to be a problem or anything (like I said....coincidence....that was when the baby wanted to come anyway) but because I think it's probably better for the baby to let him/her decide.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I had contractions for two weeks with my first, with minimal progress. Meaning some but not "enough" to be in "active labor". I mean, every 10 minutes for 2 WEEKS. And painful. Painful enough I couldn't talk through them.
I was induced 2 days after my "due date" (which turned out to be waaay off; they said she would have had problems if they waited longer) because I was so uncomfortable and she was pretty big. Come to find out, I just don't progress without pain relief. That's just how my body works.
With Bridget, shw was measuring even bigger than Emma. (She was indeed an inch longer when she was born.) When I started having the annoying contractions (this time 2.5 weeks before my due date) I explained the situation to my doctor, who said, "I'm going out of town. Let's do it tomorrow."
I am totally fine with that. And actually, I am okay with the fact that I will probably be induced every time.
Once I get my epidural the pitocin works FAST. It's kinda neat to be able to know what day the baby will come. Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
I don't know what I'll do about induction. I'd rather wait for the baby, if possible. On the other hand, I'm not opposed. I really, really like my doctor, and if a scheduled induction means I get to have him at the labor and birth, then it might be worth it. I'm probably going to have an epidural, too...definitely not against it, anyway!
On a slightly different note:
My due date(s) are 1/15, 1/17, and 1/21. At this point I'm planning to go back to work in January (1/2) after Christmas break, and work basically just as long as I can in order to save my sick days for after the baby comes. (I'm taking the rest of the school year off, so I'll be taking about 60 days without pay.)
My question is: Am I going to be so incredibly uncomfortable/ tired in my last few weeks of pregnancy that I should just forget about coming back after Christmas break? (We get out 12/22). This is my first, so I have no idea. I've had a wonderful pregnancy so far, and I'm so full of energy it's hard for me to keep things in perspective.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I'm not sure about induction either. While I would love for her to just "come when she's ready" I also loathe the idea of spending Christmas in the hospital (and possibly with an unknown doctor) if she doesn't (since I'm due 12/18). I plan to discuss the issue with my doctor at my next appointment and see what he says. If I'm really lucky she'll come a couple days early or right on time and it won't be an issue.
I'm unsure about an epidural also. Having never done this before, I have no idea what my labor will be like, so I don't know ahead of time what to think about pain management. While I'm not against it, I don't feel comfortable counting on having one ahead of time.
Good luck deciding about work Liz and congratulations of being full of energy (I'm totally jealous)! I have known women from both extremes - ones that worked right up until they go into labor and others that were so miserable for their last few weeks that it was impossible to work. Personally, I am planning to quit working the middle of November so that I can have the time I want to prepare (that I don't feel I can do right now) and since my work can be physically demanding.
All you pregnant ladies with colds - what have you done to help feel better? I ended up with my usual vacation cold on Saturday and am trying hard not to be miserable. The sinus congestion and sneezing is now leading to my usual coughing (yay for hypersensitive lungs) and I'm sleeping so poorly it's hard to function.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
I had three weeks of labor before I induced. As far as the pain, as long as you are getting an epidural, it is all good. There are a bunch of complications that can arise if you are overdue. My sister turned out fine, but she came out a little burnt. The placenta starts to degrade and fluids can thin out. I think inducing at 36 weeks is crazy, but 39-41 weeks makes sense. My doctor told me that 41 weeks is when he induces. If I don't like that, he can't force me, but we would need to have a long talk about potential risks in that decision. Of course, by 39 weeks, I was begging for an induction so it wasn't an issue. He did make me wait until the day before my due date because the hospital was too busy and he was having trouble scheduling his medically necessary inductions.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by Liz B: My question is: Am I going to be so incredibly uncomfortable/ tired in my last few weeks of pregnancy that I should just forget about coming back after Christmas break? (We get out 12/22). This is my first, so I have no idea. I've had a wonderful pregnancy so far, and I'm so full of energy it's hard for me to keep things in perspective.
Liz, every woman is going to be different, but if your level of discomfort in the last few weeks is like mine then you should definitely get all the money you can from work before you take half a year off. In fact, I did best when I had something to distract me.
It's nice that you get to take such a long maternity leave. After having had a baby, I don't know how women manage to go back after the standard 6 weeks. Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by ludosti: All you pregnant ladies with colds - what have you done to help feel better? I ended up with my usual vacation cold on Saturday and am trying hard not to be miserable. The sinus congestion and sneezing is now leading to my usual coughing (yay for hypersensitive lungs) and I'm sleeping so poorly it's hard to function.
I learned a bunch of tricks while I was BF from this site:
The natural remedies worked surprisingly well. I hope you feel better.
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
I had a cold a couple weeks ago, and my doctor had previously told me that Sudafed and Tylenol were ok. I told her I had a Tylenol Cold multi-symptom OTC with Sudafed in it, and she that it was perfectly fine. I only took it at night so that I could get to sleep, but it sure helped me through the congestion part.
I know that some women stay away from medication completely, and I guess I'm just not one of them. I don't take medicine very often at all, but it helps in those moments when I need the edge of the pain (headache, congestion, etc.) taken away. I'm careful, and to me that's what's important.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I take Sudafed, Tylenol, Advil when needed (with my doctor's approval), Alavert (Benadryl doesn't work for me unless I take it in spectacularly large doses), and of course my albuterol inhaler for my asthma. I am a little more reluctant to take them (except the inhaler) when I'm pregnant if I think I can get through it without them, but at this point it's my third pregnancy, and I just take what I need when I need it, having done it all before. I mean, Tylenol is positively tame compared to the medications I ended up on with Emma and Bridget (anti-nausea prescriptions with Emma, anti-contraction prescriptions for Bridget.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(Oh, also, for some reason this pregnancy Mandarin Orange Spice herbal tea from Celestial Seasonings seems to help both my nausea and my cold-related sore throat/congestion. Ginger tea, a life-saver the last two times, I cannot stomach.)
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
quote:Originally posted by Liz B: My due date(s) are 1/15, 1/17, and 1/21. At this point I'm planning to go back to work in January (1/2) after Christmas break, and work basically just as long as I can in order to save my sick days for after the baby comes. (I'm taking the rest of the school year off, so I'll be taking about 60 days without pay.)
My question is: Am I going to be so incredibly uncomfortable/ tired in my last few weeks of pregnancy that I should just forget about coming back after Christmas break? (We get out 12/22). This is my first, so I have no idea. I've had a wonderful pregnancy so far, and I'm so full of energy it's hard for me to keep things in perspective.
I also wanted to save my maternity leave for after the baby was born. I was starting to reconsider that, but since I went into labor two weeks before due date I wasn't quite ready to be gone and ended up going in to the office on Thursday from 9:30am - 1:00pm after labor had started around midnight the night before. I needed to clear my desk and leave a few notes for the people who would be filling in for me. So it's definitely possible to work right until the last minute!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
My sister-in-law has problems with her blood pressure late in pregnancy, and has managed to get temporary disability both times about 3 months before her due date. It lasts until she is released from the hospital, so she gets her full maternity leave afterward. If you are not just uncomfortable but start having medical problems related to your working later in your pregnancy, you might look into that. Otherwise, it kind of depends on the woman. I've known women who are able to work (with some accomodation) right up to the day they go into labor, and some who are so uncomfortable they become unproductive and decide to leave early.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
My maternity leave was defined as the 6 weeks after giving birth. Taking time off before didn't affect maternity leave, though it could affect job performace and sick days. Lucky for me, baby came the day Christmas break ended, so I really maximized my time off.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
See, she got 3 months, but that included all time taken before AND after the baby came for pregancy-related stuff.
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
My maternity leave starts 6 - 8 weeks before my due date and continues for 6 - 36 months after delivery. A bit different, I guess.
I dreamed I was in labor last night and had to try to call my husband between contractions at the hospital because he's in London until Thursday. No contractions since I woke up though, thankfully...
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
quote:Originally posted by Katarain: I read on another forum where a woman is 4 days from her due date, and since the baby had shown no signs of arriving, she was scheduling an induction for her due date.
I didn't say anything, since I haven't given birth yet, and what do I know, right? But I hear that induced labor is much more painful than natural labor, and I can't understand going through that just because you're tired of being pregnant. I figure if the baby hasn't come yet, it's because it's not done yet!
No one will be inducing me. No way, uh uh. Well, unless there was a big emergency that was threatening the life of my baby. But that's the ONLY way. I don't care if the little one is weeks late. I'm fairly sure it'll come when it's ready.
I couldn't agree more! Natural childbirth (meaning unmedicated) is probably not in the cards if you're induced. That pit is painful. In addition, an early epidural puts you at a greater risk for a c-section.
Also, I get the heebie jeebies about forcing nature to take a certain course. I tend to think that baby comes when it and mama's body is ready, and interrupting that could lead to problems. That's just my take, though.
A really great book to read, whether you're interested in natural childbirth or not, is Henci Goer's "The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth." Everyone should be informed about the birth process and different decisions that can be made for it, and most mainstream books (i.e. What to expect...) don't go into detail. Our society is really good about letting women forget that childbirth is a natural process that's been happening since humankind began.
With Space Space Baby, my OB told me I deserved a medal, as so few of her patients get to their due dates without being electively induced. It made me sad, but to each his own, I suppose.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote: I tend to think that baby comes when it and mama's body is ready, and interrupting that could lead to problems.
Usually, I would agree. I happen to be an exception.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen:
quote: I tend to think that baby comes when it and mama's body is ready, and interrupting that could lead to problems.
Usually, I would agree. I happen to be an exception.
I love that I have choices because not every woman, not ever baby, and not ever pregnancy is exactly the same. Induction is there if I need it, like so many other things. I'd rather do that than a c-section.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yep.
My worst nightmare is triplets, 'cause there's no way I'd be able to deliver them without a section, and they'd be in the NICU when they were born for sure. I don't think that I could handle that, emotionally.
Luckily I think there's something like a 1 in 2 million chance of me having triplets with no in-vitro or other fertilization assistance technology used and no family history of multiples.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I was looking up the odds of multiples recently...the population statistics are skewed because of the fertility drugs and other similar methods, but the odds of having *natural* twins is 1 in 90, natural triplets is 1 in 8,100. Your odds of natural quads is 1 in 729,000 without fertility treatments.
Since I'm not on fertility drugs and there hasn't been a twin in my family for at least 400 years on either side (that's how far we've done genealogy so far) then I'd say my odds of multiples are extremely low. Really, it's a very good thing. I had a hard enough time with just one!
My biggest risk, coming in at somewhere under .4%, would be identical twins because they're a fluke rather than a genetic predisposition.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I personally have found that many proponents of natural childbirth are very judgemental about it and ill-informed about the many reasons it might not be possible for some mothers (please note that I am not referring to anyone here). People have said some very ugly things to me when they found out that I had a Section - people who didn't know anything about my pregnancy at all.
Aerin and I would both be dead if not for medical intervention. It's hard for me to talk about the specifics, but I would have had problems even if I had carried Aerin to term, due to the placement of Baby B's remains. I have an excellent chance of carrying the next baby to term because of the fantastic advances in perinatology. Yes, women gave birth naturally for thousands of years, but let's not forget how many thousands of women like me died in childbirth or had terrible complications for the rest of their lives. It would be wonderful if no one needed medical intervention, but since so many of us do, it's wonderful that it's here for us. And partaking of it does not make us failures or bad mothers.
However, nothing makes me angrier than non-necessary inductions before term. It infuriates me that there are voluntary inductions at 35 weeks. I fought so hard to give Aerin as much time as I could and I know how vital it is for babies to get all the time they need in the womb.
BTW, not all multiples end up in the NICU, even triplets. There were triplets in Aerin's NICU and they were only there for 2 days before moving up the the PCN. They were 34-weekers who were all breathing room air from birth. They were all home within 2 weeks.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Multiples are all over in my family: my mom is a twin (she has a twin brother), she also has younger twin brothers, her twin has twin boys, one of them has twins, my other cousin has twins, and my dad's brother has twins.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Brinestone, only the fraternal twins on your mom's side count-- but it does sound like you have enough of a family history for an increased chance of multiples.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
That's true -- fraternal twinning is only hereditary through the woman because it's her body that has to ovulate twice. The fact that your mom's twin brother had twins means that he married a woman who was prone to having twins. (He can't make his wife's body decide to drop another egg.) The fact that his twin son had twins means that he also married a woman prone to having twins.
Still, that's a heck of a family tree!
Oh, and in case anyone was interested, I found out that your odds of having quadruplets that are made up of two sets of identical twins is 1 in 25-36 million. You know, just in case you were wondering...
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
You can be induced and do without an epidural. My sister in law made it through with the pictocin. Hurt like hell, but she did it.
I know I tend to get overly defensive about interventions because I have gotten a lot of flack over that decision. I think that the goal of giving birth is to have a healthy baby and a healthy mom and whatever is the best way to do that, should be done.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I think we women all need to get to a point where we are secure enough in our own choices that we can support each other even when our choices are different.
I mean, induction, section, VBAC, natural childbirth, waterbirth, formula-fed, breast-fed, co-sleeping, cry-it-out, Ferberizing, or whatever choices we make for ourselves and our babies, the important thing is we are all mothers, right? What we teach our kids about how to live in the world and treat others and how we treat others ourselves are the important things. My mom doesn't lord it over me because she had 4 kids with no pain medication. In fact, she encourages me to get what I want and need, because she wants the best for me (and is a little jealous I am able to get epidurals!) I have a sister-in-law who exclusively formula feeds. I (almost) exclusively breastfeed. We don't argue about it because we each know that we are both capable of making the best decision for our families (unlike the other sister-in-law, who apparently caused some friction with s-i-l 1 when she made a big deal out of her choice to b/f as opposed to s-i-l 1's choice to f/f.) I am working on being less judgemental all around, and this board is very helpful in that regard; we all seem pretty good at it most of the time.
But you should see some of the parenting boards I am on; whoo-ee! Those ladies can get waaaay judgemental. It's pretty sad.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I am very grateful to live at a time when there are so many options and so much information (even though it does make things kind of overwhelming) about childbirth. I really like that something as intense (and I suspect as intensely personal) as childbirth and childrearing can happen in such a variety of ways. I really love Hatrack for the open-mindedness and supportive nature of the people here. I really like being able to ask questions of you wonderful ladies who I know will give me not only reasonable and honest answers, but such a wide variety of them.
And thanks for the suggestions for cold remedies! My congestion (thankfully) is clearing up really quickly. Now I will just be stuck with the lingering cough from hell (which is actually not caused by congestion). I have hypersensitive lungs for which I normally take asthma medication (and during colds I end up taking a steroid inhaler like Advair to eliminate the cough that I get that hangs on forever), but went off all that (at my doctor's recommendation) before getting pregnant. In the past (without the steroid), I'd sometimes cough for over a month (before using the steroid that would clear it up with about 1-2 weeks). I really don't want to do that, so I'll try some of the less severe cough options for a couple weeks and if I'm still coughing, I'll ask my doctor for further advice.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Are you seeing a pulmonologist or asthma specialist?
I have always been told that in the case of asthma medications it is almost always much better to treat the asthma than not while pregnant, to ensure the baby gets enough oxygen to thrive. Your OB may not know all the research that has been done and your specialist may not either, but if you can get them to work together they may be able to come up with something that is fairly safe during pregnancy and will be fairly effective for you.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I did a bunch of research on asthma medication, because I was on Advair during my whole pregnancy. My allergist tried to switch me to something class-B when I went off birth control, but it didn't work and I went back to the Advair. Basically, untreated asthma is equivilent to smoking while you're pregnant -- the baby doesn't get the oxygen it needs. Advair is class-C, which means it should only be used when the risks of not using it are greater than the risks of using it. Coughing is one thing, but if you are short of breath or wheezing talk to your doctor about options.
Edit: interestingly enough, I might have been able to go off the Advair once I actually was pregnant. I am one of those lucky people whose pregnancy affected her asthma for the better -- I've been asthma drug-free for six months for the first time in over 20 years.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Lucky.
My doctor says he sees it in about thirds-- 1/3 of women have their asthma get better, 1/3 stay the same, 1/3 get worse.
I get worse. The only time I need treatment other than a rescue inhaler is when I'm pregnant. I pretty much have my dad's nebulizer on permanent loan during pregnancies (now that I live where I can; in TX I just wound up in the ER for breathing treatments all the time.)
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Ewww, ludosti, my sympathies. Coughs are no fun. Hope your doctor(s) can find something to help...
Thanks to everyone for their input on how long to stay at work. It's so good to hear stories from people who've been there/ done that.
kq, I was actually very concerned that I would have problems with high blood pressure like your relative did. In 2003-2004 I was on medication for it; I lost a lot of weight (60 lbs., approximately 1/3 of my total weight) and got in good physical condition, and it didn't help one little bit. Then one of my doctors (I forget who) suggested that I might want to try a birth control pill without estrogen. I switched to the minipill and just like magic, my bp normalized. It's been normal since 2005, but clearly my blood pressure is sensitive to hormones, so I was worried about pregnancy.
So I've been monitoring it at home every day, and also taking a baby aspirin (on my doctor's advice), since there's some research that shows that helps to prevent preeclampsia. But everything is looking good so far (I'm at week 24 now), and at my sonogram last week, the doctor said the uterine doppler showed I was at low risk for preeclampsia. Yay! But they're still monitoring me monthly to make sure the baby is growing on schedule. Which means lots of sonograms, which I love! (As long as everything keeps looking good...)
Posted by dawnmaria (Member # 4142) on :
KQ, I think what you said about supporting each other was beautiful. I think it's the nicest thought I've ever heard. I wish my sis could be less judgemental and just a little more accepting without putting her 2 cents in everywhere. I have really enjoyed this thread. It's made me feel more secure in my self and my choices for my kids. We're all different and will all have different ways that are best for our fams. If the whole world could be more like Hatrack, we'd all be in a happier place! I love you all!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yes, the asthma medication was prescribed by my allergist/immunologist/pulmonologist (who I saw shortly before we started trying for our baby and spoke with about my allergies and lungs in relation to being pregnant). I do not technically have asthma, but a similar condition called (iirc) bronchial hyper-reactivity (basically my lungs respond to allergies and colds by getting inflamed in a similar manner to asthma, though much less drastic - no wheezing, shortness of breath, just nasty coughing that tears everything up and doesn't seem to go away on its own). I have actually been doing really well since going off my medications in January. This is the first time the old issues have started to re-surface, which is why I figure I'll give it a few weeks (to see if things will clear up enough on their own) before calling my allergist for suggestions (I figure it'd be easier to approach him first and have him talk with my OB if need be).
Edit: I'm glad to hear that Advair is a Class-C (I hadn't yet looked it up), so that if worse comes to worse, it could be an option. As much as I dislike taking medication (this month I get to experiment with going off my anti-nausea meds), it really is sometimes necessary.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote: If the whole world could be more like Hatrack, we'd all be in a happier place! I love you all!
Amen. Hugs all around! Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
All right, I totally like the idea of not judging, but something has been bugging me today and I'm wondering what you think of it...I guess that I just can't think of any way that this particular mom is making good choices. I feel bad, because the reason we were even talking on the phone was because she was offering my son and I a ride somewhere next week, which is nice of her. But I was so uncomfortable listening to her get angry with her son in the background. She yelled at him and called him names, sometimes cussing (damn). Then she told me, with him in earshot, that she'd consider her job well done if he didn't go to jail because there was no hope for him. It didn't even sound like she was joking. I know he's 3, but he can understand things, especially tone. Then she apologized in advance if he called my son a butthead while we are in the car next week.
I don't know, it's just been making me feel weird since I got off the phone with her. I hate to be judgmental, like you say, but this just seems wrong. If this is just a different mothering choice, then this may be one I have to accept from a distance.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Abuse crosses the line. Abuse is not a different mothering choice-- it's something that needs to be educated and treated to make it go away. It sounds like this mother is overwhelmed and needs help to me, because I think swearing at your child and calling him names (we've all yelled but if the yelling is excessive it can count too, depending on how often) crosses the line to verbal/emotional abuse.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Hopefully this is not typical behavior for this mom, but an error in judgment caused by lots of details we don't know. I hope your ride together next week goes better and is more comfortable for all of you.
Like kq said, abuse is not just a different choice in mothering. Hopefully this situation is not something that happens constantly and could be considered abuse.
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
I had my appointment yesterday. I'm still pregnant. Only a week and a half to go before the scheduled c-section, so I think I can make it. I'm still working on making my body go into labor though, so I'll let you know if anything works.
I missed out on the whole multiple birth discussion yesterday, but I wanted to add my input! kq, to scare you, my mom had natural triplets [2 boys (identical) and 1 girl (fraternal)] even though there is absolutely no history of multiples in my family anywhere. To make you feel better, although she did have a c-section, she carried full term (she doesn't remember whether it was 39 or 40 weeks) and the only reason the babies stayed in the hospital for 5 days was because my mom wasn't emotionally ready to go home yet! There was absolutely no time in the NICU at all. The smallest weighed 4lb 11oz, the biggest 5lb 11oz, if I remember correctly. Triplet birth doesn't have to be scary. Having triplets at home is another story! That is scary!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay divaesfani - the end is in sight! I hope everything will go really well for you! I'll be eagerly awaiting any good results on making labor start.
*giant sigh* I apparently still need anti-nausea meds. Going without them for 24 hours meant I was throwing up again. I was so hopeful that I had made it past all this, but I guess not. Oh well, maybe next month.
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
ludosti, sorry about the nausea. It's not fun!
Here is an interesting news story around here: Blizzard Babies. We purposely went off birth control so technically we shouldn't be included, but my baby will always be considered a blizzard baby in Colorado!
Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Hmm. I certainly didn't mean to step on any toes with my last post regarding induction, and I'm thinking perhaps I did. I was just trying to explain my own POV, which I think I made pretty clear.
I think I'll return to my regular Hatrack hiatus now.
Good luck with your pregnancies, everyone. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
SO, I didn't feel trodden upon. Not even my toes. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
ludosti, when I was on the anti-nausea meds with Emma, I got so sick of the side effects that when it started to lighten up, I found I could take half a dose and still get the anti-nausea effect without as many side effects. Maybe if you're feeling better but still need them, you can talk to your doc about lowering the dose on a trial basis?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I can't sleep. And my tummy hurts.
Last night I finally had to throw up before I could sleep.
And there isn't even anything on tv. Usually I can veg out with The X-Files until I fall asleep (knowing almost the whole series by heart as I do) but it's not on any channel tonight. They're all showing really stupid movies instead. Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Sorry to hear about all the nausea...I don't have any.
I'm sleeping a lot though. A LOT. Eleven to fourteen hours a night, and sometimes an hour or two nap in the afternoons.
I'm also seeing a chiropractor. It helps a lot with the lower back and groin pains. (I call them the "I'm being stabbed in the crotch with a very short ice pick pains".)
And I've found a homebirth midwife who is willing to come to some doctor appointments with me and then "catch" the baby here at home or attend me in the hospital as a doula. I feel like I have a lot of options right now, and most of the pressure is off.
My husband even says he doesn't have time to duplicate my research, so he'll just have to trust that I'll make the best, safest decision for me and the baby.
Now, if only I weren't having reservations about calling my mother and telling her my plans...much less calling her when I'm in labor...LOL.
I tried to convince her that homebirth is not that big a risk, and offered to show her studies and books, but she's just too scared to even hear me. Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
So, out of curiosity, how far along is everyone here? I've figured out a few of you, like Boon...
I'm guessing May 28th (irregular cycles and a wonky BBT chart make this difficult to know for sure). That puts me at 5 weeks, 2 days. Barely pregnant. No symptoms...yet...and I'm quite happy that way. Some people suggest that having the morning sickness is reassuring, but I mostly found it nauseating. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
About 8 weeks here. And I had m/s from about 4 weeks. You take advantage of the non-barfy time you have...
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay Boon!!! I'm so glad you found a midwife and most of the pressure is now off!
for not falling asleep kq! I know how awful that is! I'm currently at the lowest dosage on the anti-nausea meds (I take one in the morning and one at night before bed), which I guess makes me feel a little better. The only side-effect I experience is constipation (which I knows tends to happen with pregnancy anyway), so now my doc has me taking a stool softener also (since regardless of how much fiber I eat and how much I drink, it's still there). I'm just really tired of pills all the time.
Christine, I'm at 28 weeks. Not to scare you, but I felt great up until 6 weeks. I really hope you don't get sick!!
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by ludosti: Christine, I'm at 28 weeks. Not to scare you, but I felt great up until 6 weeks. I really hope you don't get sick!!
LOL...I am 100% sure I will get sick in about 1 or 2 weeks. I got very sick (terrible migraines and horrible stomach things) with my son and with the baby I lost at 9 weeks this summer. I suppose it can't hurt to hope, but mostly I'm just bracing myself! Posted by DeathofBees (Member # 3862) on :
Happy little note to say that Mini-Bee #2 arrived.
Boy! (we didn't know until the birth) 15 September 2007 4:56 am 9 lbs, 10 oz 21 inches
*proud grin*
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Congratulations!
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Congratulations! That's another big baby! I hope this isn't a Hatrack trend. Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
Flu or pregnancy? The eternal question. Though two of my youngsters have been chucking this week, and I also might be anxious because of someone quitting the office.
Posted by dawnmaria (Member # 4142) on :
Yeah for big babies! Congrats!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Congratulations!
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Congrats!!
(Pooka... ??)
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
Congrats, Death of Bees!
(Pooka, you can't leave us hanging...)
Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
Well, I'm hanging, we can hang out together. It's too early for an OTC test. I was uncharacteristically tired today. But not as nauseated. My spinbarkeit sign came sooner than I would have expected, but since it persisted for a couple of days, I think it's less likely I ovulated early, which would be the main reason to suspect. Besides the nausea, anxiety and fatigue.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Congrats, DeathofBees!
Wow, such big babies! Don't worry, I'll bring the hatrack average down. My son was 6 lb. 5 oz. and I expect this one to fall on the small side too. My husband and I have perfect large adult genes, but the family birth statistics show we do it the right way -- have 'em small and grow them on the outside.
BTW, I hate being pregnant. My morning, afternoon, evening, and night sickness started yesterday and probably won't ease up for a month or two. I have a dull, persistent headache that is always my biggest pregnancy complaint. (I know, not as glamorous as throwing up or fainting, but it hurts like hell when it crosses the line into migraine territory.) I managed to forget how bad this was. I think my body does that on purpose to trick me into wanting to get pregnant again. Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
I have a case of intestinal bloat that is making my bra uncomfortable. Still don't know if it is germ or baby related. It's that horrible conundrum of "do I eat? Then my blood sugar won't be low. But if I eat and nothing changes, I've just added to the grog."
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I feel for you.
My problem is "Do I eat (or drink some water?) Then I'm not shaky and about to faint from dehydration and low blood sugar. But if I eat (or drink water) I'm going to puke. Can I make it to 3 o' clock?"
Also, JEFF STILL HAS NOT FOUND MY MATERNITY CLOTHES. That includes all my maternity garments. I'm rapidly outgrowing my regular garments and the last pair of fat pants that fits. (No, I still have not gained and am actually still 1 lb. under my pre-pregnancy weight-- it fluctuates but is holding steady at less than I was.)
He had better remember where he put them by this weekend or there's gonna be trouble (and ripped underwear!)
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay DeathofBees!!! Congratulations!!!
Christine - I'm really sorry to hear you've hit the nasty sick and headache stage. Hopefully it'll pass quickly!!
Awww kq Hopefully he'll remember tonight where he put them. I was lucky my maternity garments arrived in the nick of time (I'd ordered them online since I could never make it when distribution was open) - I was getting really, really, really uncomfortable and was so thrilled to come home to that little brown box.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I couldn't afford them the first time around.
Or the second time around, honestly; I asked for them for Christmas from my mother-in-law (which was embarassing, but I really needed them and they are EXPENSIVE.)
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yeah, I wasn't happy about the cost, but I am glad that prices now are about half what they were 10 years ago (and my normal ones were in such bad shape I was needing to buy some anyway).
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, ditto that. We both have been putting off new ones, buying one piece at a time as others absolutely fall apart. We finally decided to both get new garments completely next year, after tax season (and after baby comes.)
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
My husband and I buy a few pieces at a time as well. Part of the problem is the when to buy new ones. I gained weight and stretched my old ones as I gained. I thought about buying new ones, but I wanted to lose weight and figured it would be a waste if I succeeded. I then lost 30 pounds and was hoping for another ten when I got pregnant. Since the garments were already all stretched out, no point buying new ones. Now I am nursing and haven't lost the baby weight yet. I HATE the nursing tops and I gained 3 cup sizes, so the ones I am wearing are ultra stretched out. But, I am hoping that in a few months when bin is weaned, my chest will go back down. And then I will buy new ones. Hopefully before the tattered shreds stop holding together.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Congratulations, DeathofBees!
I'm right around 25 weeks now.
So far, I really like being pregnant. Much more than I expected to. Baby Xerxes is very, very active, which is fun. Kick kick kick kick kick kick kick punch fliip.
My mother-in-law has been a huge help in the maternity clothes department--she's made me 6 jumpers in a variety of fabrics. I'm not big enough for them yet, but I think they'll be indispensable in December & January!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I have had a rotten day, puking-wise. Thankfully, it is now past 3. *drinks horchata*
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I'm so so sorry. Hopefully you're done puking for today!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, as long as I do all my eating and drinking between now and 11 PM, I probably won't puke again until early tomorrow morning. (If I break the 11 PM rule, I'll throw up immediately afterwards. *sigh* This baby is very strict. I'm getting to the point where I can't even stay hydrated. I can't wait to get my insurance so I can go into my doctor and talk to him about anti-nausea meds because I'm becoming concerned about dehydration and fainting.)
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: I have had a rotten day, puking-wise. Thankfully, it is now past 3. *drinks horchata*
I'm sorry.
I haven't actively puked, but my upset stomach won't let up. I pulled out the pork chops I planned for dinner, took one look at the raw meat, and ran to the bathroom. Then I called my husband to inform him that I wouldn't be cooking. He was fine with it, but I feel kinda guilty.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, Jeff has been doing a lot of dinner-making. I'm so exhausted after puking all day and getting the kids' food (they eat a lot of cheese, bread, yogurt, grapes, and lunchmeat lately because those items require no preparation on my part) that he gets to come home and figure out what he can make that we'll all eat. Then clean up the mess the kids have made while I was too weak to even bend over and pick things up (I pass out.) Poor man.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Okay, I so have pregnant brain.
I made Jell-o yesterday. I went to check it today-- it's not jelled right.
I must have absentmindedly put too much water.
Thankfully, Emma is still willing to eat it.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I really, really, really hope you don't get dehydrated. I did (and had to go to the hospital) and that is seriously the worst I have ever felt in my life. Try sucking on ice chips/cubes. That sometimes worked for me even with the nausea/vomiting. Let me know if you need a recipe for pseudo-gatorade to ensure you get enough electrolytes (my mom has problems with dehydration and can't drink normal sports-type drinks, so her doctor gave her a recipe to make her own version).
I'm really glad I'm not the only person with what I refer to as "stupid pregnant brain". Hubby and I have quite a list going of really, really stupid things I've said or done the last few months.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I think it was rivka who refered to that phenomenon as "brain cell donation." I mean, the baby's got to get them from somewhere, right?
My doctor also had a nice way of putting it: "The baby eats your brain."
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
So babies are zombies? That figures. That would definitely explain the severe headaches. I guess my brain doesn't like being eaten.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
I remember reading in Scientific America that they did a study and found that during pregnancy, woman's verbal IQ does actually drop. I don't have a link though. Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
You can't remember it?
I'm reading stuff and thinking "I'm ill, but I'm not that ill." I just don't want to eat anything much for about a week now. And I used to be really tired. But it still might be just general illness.
The timing would not be great for a pregnancy now. My resume is dotted by employment of a year or so that ended in a maternity leave.
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
quote:Originally posted by ludosti: Let me know if you need a recipe for pseudo-gatorade to ensure you get enough electrolytes (my mom has problems with dehydration and can't drink normal sports-type drinks, so her doctor gave her a recipe to make her own version).
Oh! Can I have it, please? I'm easily dehydrated and get heat exhaustion, so of course I have to live in a tropical country. We have two flavors of the rehydration stuff here - orange and lemon lime. The lemon lime is good, but difficult to find at times, and the orange is horrid.
I would love a recipe. Pretty pretty pretty please with a huge mound of cherries on top? And if you hate cherries or they make you nauseous, then whatever you're currently craving? Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, my problem is I can't even drink water, much less water with stuff mixed in!
Once in a while I can get down an ice pop (like Otter Pops, you know, but generic.)
Usually, though, NOTHING goes down and stays down from 11 PM until 2:30 or 3 PM. And only certain things from 3 to 11.
I really want some anti-nausea meds. They helped a lot with Emma.
Dang overloaded system. I have up to 3 1/2 more weeks to wait before I'm covered and can go to the doctor.
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
I'm sorry you're having such a terrible time, kq. Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I'm getting my migraines back.
Right now it's just a dull ache. I guess sleeping helped, but last night from about 8:00 on I was curled up under a blanket trying to block out the agonizingly bright streetlights and moonlight. I couldn't fall asleep until after 11. I have a feeling that this is going to be a lot like it was last time, which means the headache will gradually progress throughout the day until it turns into a full-fledged migraine sometime this evening.
I hate being pregnant. Nice end result, but the process sucks.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
quid - I'll check with my mom on Monday and get it from her.
kq - Have you tried ice chips? I could do that even when I couldn't drink anything. Hurry up insurance so you can get anti-nausea meds!
Christine - I'm so sorry you're getting your migraines back! I've had very few since being pregnant and I've been able to catch them early enough that I can drink a caffeinated soda to stop them or keep them low-grade (worst case, my doc said I could take my dissolvable Excedrin I have - it has only caffeine and acetametaphin in it). Do you have any luck with caffeine?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Ice chips don't stay down, either. If the ice pops don't go down, nothing does.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
ludosti: I almost never drink caffeine...a soda once in a while, but I don't drink coffee and I even drink decaffeinated iced tea. I used to, back in college, then gave it up for lent and never looked back. I don't know, I suppose I could try. The thing is, I'm not normally a migraine sufferer. The only migraines I've ever had in my life are pregnancy related and then my options are so limited because I'm pregnant.
I suppose it couldn't hurt to try a soda. I'm still in a lucid enough state right now that it might work.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
The key to migraines is stopping them before they get full blown. Caffeine helped mine a lot, but I know others who have worse migraines when they drank caffeine. Try it, but be prepared either way. Also, you might want to talk to your doctor about other pain killers. I think vicodin in small amounts was ok- the big fear is the baby getting addicted and going through withdrawals. Luckily for me, as long as I am on the pill or pregnant, the migraines go away. Of course, knowing that going of the pill will lead to all that pain is a huge deterrent to having a second baby
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
quote:Originally posted by Christine: I'm getting my migraines back.
Right now it's just a dull ache. I guess sleeping helped, but last night from about 8:00 on I was curled up under a blanket trying to block out the agonizingly bright streetlights and moonlight. I couldn't fall asleep until after 11. I have a feeling that this is going to be a lot like it was last time, which means the headache will gradually progress throughout the day until it turns into a full-fledged migraine sometime this evening.
Christine, have you considered getting eyeshades? I have a couple of pairs, and I always use them when I'm migrainous, and they make a huge difference. I sometimes have to play with how they sit on my face to maximize blocking out light - I'm thinking of making myself a pair that's larger or something.
There's one type that's available at luggage / travel shops, but for me, they don't work as well. At any rate, if you go that route, try them on to make sure they'll work for you. Also make sure that, at the very least, they're backed with dark fabric - that makes a huge difference, in my experience.
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
I'm really hoping to not be pregnant tomorrow. Any prayers or good vibes to help send me into labor would be appreciated!
Posted by Vyrus (Member # 10525) on :
Congratulations and good luck!
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
I didn't go into labor. We'll be heading for the hospital in the morning for a c-section. Tomorrow by noon (mountain time), there will be a new baby! Yay!
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
How exciting! Praying for a happy, healthy momma and baby.
Posted by Morbo (Member # 5309) on :
Good luck divaesefani! I just said a prayer for you and your child.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Best wishes divaesefani. Posted by dawnmaria (Member # 4142) on :
Hope all goes smoothly for both of you! I'll keep you in my prayers.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I can't wait to hear about the new baby!
In other news, my total loss from my pre-pregnancy weight is now 6 lbs.
Not that I mind, but the reason I'm losing is not very healthy.
I want meds. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I realized today that I am now 1/4 of the way through my pregnancy.
Not much, I know, but I've always found long waits more manageable as I counted off fractions. Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
I've been putting it in fractions as well, kq. Definitely more manageable. Now I'm a few days away from 36 weeks, though, so I imagine I'll start counting down the days pretty soon...if only I knew which day to count down to...
In other news, ow! Everything hurts. And I'm about to lose my calm, zen-like unconcern at people's stupid comments - I can feel it coming on, the next person to make an insensitive comment might really get it! Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Wow, you look like you're about to a*SPLODE! Are you sure it's not twins?!?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
"Haven't you had that baby yet?"
Posted by PSI Teleport (Member # 5545) on :
quote: I think it was rivka who refered to that phenomenon as "brain cell donation." I mean, the baby's got to get them from somewhere, right?
I know this is a joke, but it feels SO true. I had two kids very close together and by the end of it I could even remember a phone number. I felt like they were sharing my brain between them and I had nothing left.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Okay, I am seriously considering getting a device that helps women pee standing up. I refuse to sit on a public toilet, and squatting is getting harder and harder to do as I get bigger. It will also help with the urine samples I have to provide at the doctor's office.
I just don't understand how the SheWee will fit in the right way. Also, I read some reviews that complained of leaking.
The Whiz looks okay, but I don't want to have to have it shipped from the UK and mess with exchange rates, etc.
The TravelMate looks kind of small on the "cup" end, but I think it might work. I also found fairly positive reviews online.
I think I'm going to try the TravelMate. If I like it, I'll get the deal they have on three and give them away to my two sisters-in-law and my mom. Interesting Christmas presents...
So, what do you all think? Would you use something like this? It seems it sure would be useful, especially during pregnancy.
Edit: I've started a separate thread on this, as I'd like thoughts from non-pregnant women, too. Feel free to comment wherever you'd like. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I answered in the other thread.
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
OK, I did kind of set myself up for that...
I think pregnancy doesn't just affect YOUR brain, actually, but the brains of everyone around you, making them think it's ok to say things like "You look like you're about to pop" or repeat four times that "Wow, your stomach is SO BIG!" (making it very hard to keep my true nature hidden by not responding "Wow, your breasts are SO SMALL!"). I mean, in what world is that appropriate?? I vote for mass IQ reduction around pregnant women, don't y'all think so??
And no, it's not twins OR triplets, my stomach is big because I have a human being hidden inside it, and you'll be the first to know when I do have the baby. Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
I hate getting asked what my due date is when I am *not* pregnant (like I got asked today).
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
ROFL, Lissande!
Next time someone says "Your stomach is so big!" I am now going to have a really hard time not saying, "Your breasts are so small!"
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
Do it! At least I'll have company in BadPersonLand. Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Lissande: I had the opposite problem. In my last trimester with my son, people kept telling me, "Wow, you don't look pregnant at all!" or alternately, "When you are going to start showing?" Yeah, I know I didn't get that cute pregnancy belly like normal women, but I did gain like 45 pounds and if I didn't look pregnant, there was only one other way I could possibly look -- fat. I ran off crying a couple of times. The worst thing is, I've tried like a hundred times to explain to people how I felt about those comments and they always ask me what's the big deal? They were complimenting you by telling you that you didn't look pregnant and you took it the wrong way. Well, maybe people should just not say anything at all.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
quote:Originally posted by Christine: Lissande: I had the opposite problem. In my last trimester with my son, people kept telling me, "Wow, you don't look pregnant at all!" or alternately, "When you are going to start showing?" Yeah, I know I didn't get that cute pregnancy belly like normal women, but I did gain like 45 pounds and if I didn't look pregnant, there was only one other way I could possibly look -- fat. I ran off crying a couple of times. The worst thing is, I've tried like a hundred times to explain to people how I felt about those comments and they always ask me what's the big deal? They were complimenting you by telling you that you didn't look pregnant and you took it the wrong way. Well, maybe people should just not say anything at all.
That was so me!!!
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
And me. Six hours before I went into labor someone (who saw me pretty much every week) came up to me at a church dinner and said that she'd just heard that I was pregnant, congratulations.
Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
Well, I've been feeling pretty much fine. Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
I was nine months pregnant and talking to a co-worker about my upcoming maternity leave. He looked at me and said, you're pregnant?! Congratulations. How far along?
edit to add- I had gained around 45 pounds by that point (The last 2 weeks I didn't gain any weight).
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
Christine, scholar, dkw - ouch. I felt self-conscious when I started being noticeably pregnant, but I was glad at the same time for just that reason - before that I just looked overweight.
quote:Well, maybe people should just not say anything at all.
I think this is the key. You should never ask when someone is due or comment on how she looks/doesn't look pregnant - either she isn't pregnant, and you just really crushed her, or she IS pregnant, and already feeling delicate and hormonal and having body image issues. I don't comment on people's pregnancy unless they specifically tell me about it. Or if they actually go into labor.
I got my first random stranger "So when are you due? Any day now, huh?" comment when I was four months pregnant - the very first day I wore maternity clothes. Yes, I had just started showing, but in NO WAY did I look anywhere close to delivery. I really think something explodes in people's brains when they see a possibly-pregnant person and they just blurt out the first thing that comes to mind without regard to whether it has any bearing on reality. Posted by Javert Hugo (Member # 3980) on :
There's a student in my class who is very pregnant. She was supposed to be on maternity leave by now, but the baby hasn't come yet.
When she walked into class with her stomach seriously arriving about 10 inches before the rest of her, there were a number of tasteless jokes. She started them ("You're still here!" "Yep, unless you want to deliver her yourself on the seminar table.") and didn't seem to mind.
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
Brayden Charles was born on Monday, October 8th at 12:01 pm. He weighed 7lbs 8 oz and was 19 1/4 inches long. He's doing great, and mom's exhausted!!
Congratulations divaesefani ! Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Congratulations!
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Yay! What a beautiful baby!
quote: Six hours before I went into labor someone (who saw me pretty much every week) came up to me at a church dinner and said that she'd just heard that I was pregnant, congratulations.
OK, so my situation isn't quite that bad. I'm just about to enter my 3rd trimester and I can't tell you how many times I've heard "You're finally starting to look pregnant!" I have two shirts my coworkers prefer because I look more pregnant in them. You can practically see the disappointment in their eyes when I wear some of my looser shirts. Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Congrats! What a cute baby! And I'm not just saying that -- not all babies are cute.
Liz -- mine was pretty close to that bad. I guess the best way to describe how I carried my son is to say that normally I have a very pronounced hourglass figure. Rather than poking out the front, my son poked out the sides, filled in my usual hourglass, and made me look rather square. Not my normal figure so I definitely felt like I looked pregnant, but it looked like a plausible non-pregnant figure to many others. Finally, in the last month, I started getting a little round in front. But I still got looks of absolute astonishment when I told people I was due any day. Posted by dawnmaria (Member # 4142) on :
Oh what an adorable little guy! And I love his name! Is big brother excited?
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
Congrats, divaesefani!
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Congratulations!
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Awww. What a cute baby. And yay for not being pregnant anymore!
And not to steal your thunder, but we're expecting another little bundle of joy and sleeplessness somewhere around May 30.
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
Thanks, everyone!
And Congratulations, Brinestone! I'm way excited for you!
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Congratulations on the adorable baby, divasefani! I'm glad you and baby are doing well.
What exciting news, Brinestone! I can't remember, did you have bad morning sickness with Lego? It will be interesting to hear from you how your two pregnancies differ.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Light brown spotting, vaginal wall pain, lower back left side pain. Going to hospital as soon as hubby gets here to drive me. Will post update ASAP, will call kq if I can't leave hospital.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*prays for Boon*
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Best wishes Boon.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Yikes. I hope it's nothing serious.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Congrats divasefani!!! What a cutey!!! Your other son is adorable too!
Congrats Brinestone!!
I hope everything will be ok Boon!!
As for looking pregnant, most people (except maybe my family) didn't think I looked pregnant until I hit my 3rd trimester (when I had to start wearing maternity clothes). Even just this last week, a woman I see only occasionally at work commented that she hadn't realized I was pregnant because she'd only seen me from behind for the last couple months.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
I'm fine, baby's fine, and this episode's reinforced WHY I am not going to the hospital this time unless I HAVE to.
Wow, lots of news on this thread since I last posted. Congrats all round, for healthy babies and impending arrivals!
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Okay, has anyone tried vitamin B6 for nausea? My sister-in-law tried it and swore that it was like a miracle drug for her. I've noticed that I have no nausea in the night at all, and I'm wondering if that's because I'm not eating at night or because my I take my B6-containing prenatal vitamin at night.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I have heard great things about it and my doctor recommended it. When I started taking it my nausea got worse, and I only stopped throwing up every day when I stopped taking B6.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Mazel tov, divasefani! He looks so mature. And handsome.
Whoo Hoo, Brinestone!
Boon, I'm so relieved to hear that you and the baby are fine. I've been on that ride to the hospital and it's so scary. You were very much in my prayers and will continue to be.
I started to show almost immediately. It was a combination of being pregnant with multiples and my body type - I'm short and I've never had much of a stomach. People could tell I was pregnant by 10 weeks. Plus, I had to wear maternity clothes very early because my na-nas got even more freakishly huge.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
B6 makes me throw up.
And yeah, I'm in maternity clothes (what I can find) and in-between clothes now, and have been for a while. Almost none of my "regular" clothes fit anymore.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I'm in in-betweens now, though some of my bigger pants still fit. I have a pretty prounounced little stomach, but since I'm so slim anyway, I doubt anyone would notice it but me. Especially if I'm wearing a belt and a shirt that falls below my stomach.
Posted by Adelas (Member # 11084) on :
At 20 weeks this week, no stranger would look at me and guess I was anything but tubby. But I have just begun to notice a visible difference if in my skivvies, so perhaps soon everyone else will too?!
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
After I just looked a tad chubbier than normal and was still wearing my pre-preggo pants with Boo until well past 30 weeks...
I've been in full fledged maternity clothes since kq came to visit, and I was, what? 12 weeks?
Had my "20 week US" today. It was a riot.
First of all, my midwife came to this one, along with hubby and our three kids. So I go off to pee in a cup and get weighed (up 1.6 lbs from 4 weeks ago, but still down 17.5 overall) and then we all pile into this tiny exam room, with two kids sharing a chair, Midwife holding Boo in the other, and Hubby standing by the wall.
The nurse comes in and seems startled by all the people. She asks me about headaches every time I go in, and not much else...but whatever. Then she goes to take my blood pressure.
I'm NOT a small woman, by any stretch of the imagination. She gets out the regular cuff and seems a bit confused. She goes to put it on my arm, and then decides to put it on my forearm. Now, this isn't the best place to take a blood pressure, and they do have bigger cuffs in the office, so I ask her, "Don't you have a bigger cuff?"
"Yeah, but it's faster to just do it this way. Besides, it saves me the trouble of going to find the other one." Laziness. Pure laziness.
I sort of snicker at Midwife while my pressure is taken (shows normal, if it hadn't, I would have *made* her go find the right cuff).
So she leaves and then Doc comes in. He, too, seems startled to see all the people in the room. Midwife has told me she's worked with him on a number of births, both as a doula attending hospital births and as a homebirth midwife when the mom develops complications, so I expect them to know each other. "Hi, Doc. I believe you know Midwife. She's gonna come play with me while I'm in labor." LOL. No, we're not telling him our plans until much later.
He kind of does a double take. "Oh, yeah, how are you?" But still looks like he has no idea who she is. LOL
So he asks how I'm doing, and I have to remind him that I'm the one the freaking hospital called him about Saturday evening. We visit about that for a minute, and then he asks what I'd like for him to do today. Just like that. Like, he doesn't have my chart in front of him? Like, he doesn't know what he should be doing at "20 weeks"? I guess he knows now that I've educated myself...at least he's not assuming anymore that I'll just comply with whatever he wants. LOL
"Well, you said last time we were gonna do the big ultrasound today."
"Okay, we can do that. Come on!" and leads us down the hall to the US room. "Did you want to know the baby's sex?"
He spent about a minute measuring head, belly, thigh...then gets this confused look on his face. He goes over and checks my chart and looks even more worried. (Remember the due date confusion of a month ago? It's biting him in the butt!)
"Um, I think I might have measured wrong at your last US. Baby's measuring almost a month ahead of where it should be." Really? NO WAY!
"Actually, Doc, you didn't do the first one. Your PA sent me to the lab, and they were pretty thorough." Laughing on the inside.
Midwife (aware of what is happening) says, "Huh. Maybe you caught this one in a big growth spurt."
Doc looks confused again for a few seconds. "Okay. Well, you're eating well and not gaining too much weight. I'll see you in four weeks."
So, uh...yeah. My official due date is still February 27. The "correct" one from the first US puts it at February 2. I think I'll keep using February 14. Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
So you didn't find out the sex?
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Ha! I forgot to say! It's a ...
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
BABY!
LOL, Stinker kept his/her thighs together, so we probably won't know until February. Oh well. I didn't really want to know anyway.
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Hehe.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Boon, sounds like a lovely time. At least you have your midwife to snicker with! (Always more fun when you have someone there to roll your eyes and giggle with.)
I never want to know the sex and Jeff always does.
We finally came up with "when we have at least one boy" (since we already have at least two girls) "the next one can be a surprise."
Of course, I don't really trust him not to peek. I'm pretty oblivious when viewing ultrasounds, I just want to see the baby's face, fingers, and heart; he is really good at reading them and will probably know and have to keep it a secret from me (and everyone else.) And he'd better.
BTW, for kicks and giggles, I am now taking gender predictions for this baby. I have a few already, we will see what everyone thinks and compare with what it actually is. I have three "boy" predictions and one "girl" so far. Guesses?
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Sorry, sweetie, no gender dreams yet, for either of us. Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Good golly, Boon! No wonder you're going for a homebirth with a midwife if that's the level of care you get from an OB and his nurse. That's really shocking to me. Am I just very naive and lucky with my doctors? I always tended to think not, because I had wonderful doctors in NYC and Georgia, too, but I'm starting to wonder as I hear more horror stories. My OB called today to see how I was holding up with Aerin's surgery.
I was wondering, have we gone even a month in the past 3 years without anyone being pregnant?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I don't think so... It's a bit of a constant here, isn't it?
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Yeah, and I didn't even post what actually happened (or didn't happen, as the case were) at the hospital. "No wonder" is right on the money.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
If you wanna talk about it, feel free to e-mail. (((hugs)))
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
I couldn't believe that was how your doctor treated you. That is pretty outrageous. Can you get a better dr?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
IIRC, this is the "better" doctor...
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Oh, I don't mind talking about it here, if everyone wants to hear my whining.
I called my midwife first, but had to leave her a message. I actually wanted to talk to her about something else, and thought with the spotting I'd go ahead and chat then instead of waiting until Monday. Well, then I made the mistake of posting about it on BBC, asking if anyone else had symptoms like mine.
So then I wound up calling the doctor's office, against my better judgment.
First I have to listen to a recording that said if I had "significant bleeding, [my] water had broken, or [I] thought [I was] in labor, [I] should go to L&D and my doctor would be notified." Well, I don't know that 3-4 tsp of brownish blood over 24 hours is "significant" KWIM?
Then, I get the answering service. She kinda made me cry, telling me that she couldn't page a nurse unless it was an emergency. I'm thinking if I thought it was really an emergency, I'd be at the hospital already, but by now I want to talk to a nurse about it, so I say it is.
So the nurse finally calls me back, after I've called hubby and told him what's going on. I told her my symptoms, including that baby was still moving like normal and I was having NO contractions. (I know by now what they feel like, and there was nothing like them going on.)
She berated me for not calling when it started, told me how dangerous a bleed can be at 20 weeks, and told me to get to L&D immediately, but not to drive myself, because I might be starting to hemorrhage.
Now I'm bawling, and can hardly get the words out when I call my husband to come get me, and my mother to send my dad to watch the kids.
Then I call my midwife back and tell her what's going on. She did a great job calming me down, said it was probably just a bit of the placenta coming away from the uterine wall, not to panic, etc. She said they'd probably do a quick US to determine where the blood was coming from and then put me on bedrest at least until my appointment Monday.
So, we finally get to the hospital, go up to L&D, and the nurse puts me in a room. She has me pee in a cup (I'm starting to hate that) and change into a gown. Blech. Once again, I'm a big woman and the gown doesn't fit right...my butt, my ENTIRE BACKSIDE, is hanging out, so I grab a towel to cover it while I waddle back out and get up on the bed.
I tell her my symptoms and she runs through the entire admitting routine. Then she goes to take my blood pressure. Guess what happens? LOL, yep, she put it on my forearm. She did go get the other one later, she said she just wanted a quick initial reading.
So, then she says the baby is very small and I'm rather "fluffy" (her word) so the EFM wouldn't do very well getting and keeping baby's heartbeat, so she got out the doppler. She spent about 10 minutes searching for the heartbeat before she found it: right where I'd told her where it was. She argued with me that it couldn't possibly be that high, and looked FOREVER! Anyway, once she "found it" she listened for about 20 seconds, announced the rate as 146, hooked me up to the contraction detector, and left.
I sat there on that stupid machine, watching for nonexistent contractions, for almost 45 minutes. Then the nurse comes back in and says she's talked to my doctor and that, since it was such a small amount of brown blood, that it was probably nothing to worry about. That with no contractions and a good heartbeat, I shouldn't worry, and here's a list of things to look out for and when to come back if something's wrong.
I asked about the possibility of the placenta coming away like my midwife had told me about, and why wasn't I having some sort of diagnostic procedure done? She said that the doctor didn't feel it was warranted since I was seeing him on Monday, and that we'd talk about it then.
So I came home knowing NOTHING I didn't already know, after being panicked by the nurse on the phone, scaring my entire family, and my fears then completely dismissed by the L&D nurse.
Sounds great, huh?
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Yeah, this is supposed to be the "best" doctor if what I want is a VBAC, unmedicated, etc. He's very nice in person...
Oh, and he's the Medical Director at the hospital.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah. I wouldn't be delivering at that hospital, either.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
It's the only one here that "allows" VBACS. I'm staying home.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Precisely.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Oh my glory be!!!!! That's so appalling. There's just so very much wrong with that. I'm flabbergasted. And disgusted. Bless your heart, Boon.
They didn't do an ultrasound to check for a placental abruption?!? That's unbelievable. This guy is the medical director? That is so negligent that I'm blown away. I had an ultrasound for every single episode of bleeding with Aerin (though my blood was scary bad bright red). Even if these people don't want to give their patients the very best care for its own sake, you'd think they'd at least be motivated by a fear of lawsuits.
I hated the contraction monitor, btw. I was hooked up to one for about a week total, over the month I was in the hospital with Aerin. It would spike every time I moved and even though I knew that, it freaked me out enough to stay as still as I could for as long as I could. The resulting muscle pain was epic.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Unfortunately, this is my third hospital and second OB, and I've never been treated better by the medical establishment here with regards to pregnancy and childbirth.
I'm incredibly thankful we found our family doctor. She's wonderful. She'll even come to the house right after the baby's born (or as soon as the office closes for the day, if it's during business hours) for the "newborn exam" (though I really just think she wants to see the new baby). Posted by MandyM (Member # 8375) on :
Hello everyone, I'm sure most of you won't remember me since it has been about 9 months since I posted here but I was a regular before that.
I just wanted to take a second to hijack the pregnancy thread to introduce the newest member of the M family, Sophia Jane M, born 9-14-07. Baby Sophie
I hope you don't mind me butting in. I have been wanting to get back to Hatrack. I have missed being on a message board with smart people. Mandy
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Darling little one Mandy!
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
Oh no, Mandy, I remember you! Congrats! Posted by Javert Hugo (Member # 3980) on :
Congratulations!
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
Beautiful baby girl! Congrats to Mandy and family!
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Congratulations, Mandy! Your little one is so pretty!
I felt kicking for the first time on the weekend. I've felt it occasionally since then. It's so COOL! I'm only 20 weeks, so it's pretty light right now.
I sneeze a lot and when I sneezed in bed last night, it tensed up my stomach so bad that I had sharp pains in the lower part of my belly. My husband was worried that it would hurt the baby, like tearing the placenta or something. That couldn't happen, right? It's just a sneeze, albeit a violent one.
I had a dream last night that my baby insisted on being born RIGHT NOW and would not listen to reason that it would be much better if he just stayed put for another 20 weeks. I tried to explain that he'd be crying and would have to be fed and changed, and all of that would be taken care of if he just stayed in the womb. Well, he insisted on being born, and he was something like 26 pounds (but regular sized--dreams are weird.). I was trying to nurse but he wouldn't open his mouth wide enough and he had these baby vampire teeth. It was getting painful, then I suddenly realized that babies don't have teeth and took out the fake vampire teeth. Little scamp!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Ewww Boon!! I'm so sorry you're having such a horrible experience with hospitals and doctors! Ugh! No wonder you want to be at home with your midwife (who sounds excellent)! I'm so glad the baby is ok.
Congrats Mandy!! Sophie is beautiful!!!
Kat - Yay for getting to feel the baby move! It's a lot of fun (though if your little one is anything like mine, you'll eventually get tired of all the constant moving ). When I sneeze or cough I quite often get twinges of pain in the various ligaments and muscles in my belly (good old "round ligament" pain for you). It often helps me if I can support my belly with a hand/arm as I sneeze/cough (and drive over speedbumps ). Aren't pregnancy dreams weird? I remember having one a few months ago where the baby was moving around everywhere (like crawling down my legs, etc.) and I kept trying to push her back up to my belly where she belonged.
I'm starting to get tired of being pregnant. According to my mom this is a good thing, because by the time I get to the end I should be so tired of being pregnant that I'll do anything to get it over with. I guess overall I feel pretty good (I'm lucky to not be having much back pain), but I'm just can't ever get comfortable (and am annoyed that I still occasionally have problems with nausea and vomiting even with the meds). Good thing I'm 3/4 of the way done! I'm hoping that since I'm still measuring "just perfect" (according to the doctor), that my glucose tolerance test will come back ok. Now to just wait for the results (and cross my fingers that I'm not diabetic). It's been fun lately to set up a baby registry (even if there are way too many choices) with hubby.
[ October 17, 2007, 12:44 PM: Message edited by: ludosti ]
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Somebody asked if I had bad morning sickness last time (I'm too lazy to go find the post, sorry). I did feel sick for most of my first trimester, but I never did throw up. So . . . yes and no.
It's a bad combination right now: I have a heightened sense of smell (I don't remember that from last time), nausea, and very specific tastes. I can't stand the thought of eating a lot of my "staples," and I'm craving a lot of stuff either that I don't have or that takes too long to make. Stuff like fish. I did break down and bought some sole fillets yesterday, but I felt too sick to make dinner and ended up putting some bagel bites in the oven. Nutritious, I know.
I keep wondering how women who have worse nausea than I do manage to get through it. I mean, if I were lying down on the couch all the time, not cooking, not cleaning, not doing dishes, I'd get seriously depressed, and Lego would not be happy. Also we'd go broke from eating out too much.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
When I was at my worst (nausea wise) it really was depressing. I only made it to work about half the time and a good day was when I could eat a cup of applesauce/mashed potatoes/yogurt and keep it down (it was sad, but I developed lists of foods to eat/not eat based on how easy/horrible they were to throw up). Hubby does ok fending for himself foodwise, so that was a good thing. I guess I am lucky in that I haven't had a significantly more sensitive sense of smell and I haven't really had many cravings. I am also lucky that, since this is my first, I don't have another child I must provide for when I'm feeling horrible.
Hopefully you'll be past the worst of the nausea soon! It isn't fun if it continues (but at least there are medications that can help). Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:It's a bad combination right now: I have a heightened sense of smell (I don't remember that from last time), nausea, and very specific tastes. I can't stand the thought of eating a lot of my "staples," and I'm craving a lot of stuff either that I don't have or that takes too long to make. Stuff like fish. I did break down and bought some sole fillets yesterday, but I felt too sick to make dinner and ended up putting some bagel bites in the oven. Nutritious, I know.
At least you can eat bagel bites.
This baby won't let me eat anything that my mother would classify as "junk."
quote:I keep wondering how women who have worse nausea than I do manage to get through it. I mean, if I were lying down on the couch all the time, not cooking, not cleaning, not doing dishes, I'd get seriously depressed, and Lego would not be happy. Also we'd go broke from eating out too much.
I gotta say, I am SOOOO thankful that my pregnancy with Bridey was not like this (mine with Emma was, but she was my first, so it was better.) Jeff picks up most of the cleaning and cooking dinner; we make sure that we have bread, cheese, and yogurt, all of which the kids can feed themselves with no preparation on my behalf other than opening a package. I just kind of sit and watch while they entertain themselves and only get up when I have to intervene or go to the bathroom or they demand food or drink or a diaper change (which, btw, are HORRIBLE right now, and almost always result in more puking.)
But I know it will pass. Even if not for a while, it WILL pass, at least by the end of the pregnancy.
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
Thanks for all the well wishes! We're doing great and, so far, Tyler loves being a brother.
The best news is: so far I have been able to feed Brayden without supplementing at all! I was really nervous, since it didn't really work last time, but so far we're doing fine.
Boon, I wish you so much luck throughout the rest of this pregnancy. I'm so sorry the medical care in your area sucks. Thank goodness for your midwife. I don't know what I'd do if I wasn't supported in my decisions by the medical staff. You're a real trooper!
Congrats, MandyM! She's beautiful.
And to all the morning sick gals, I'm so sorry! I understand. Keep pushing through!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Oh, while I'm thinking of it - if any of you ladies suffering from morning sickness would like to try some Preggie Pop Drops or Morning Sickness Magic peach/ginger powdered drink packets I've got some sitting around that I could pass along. Just send me a note through the boards.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I finally have a doctor's appointment! It's next Monday!
I'm excited to see and hear the baby. (I know they are gonna want to date me by u/s, they always do.)
My card better come soon (I got a notice on Thurs. saying it should arrive "within the next few days.") If it doesn't, I'm calling to get the number because I am NOT going to reschedule my appointment!
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
My congestion got a lot worse earlier this week. I went to my OB-GYN, and she thinks that it's allergies (which are made worse by pregnancy, at least for me). I've never had an allergy diagnosis, but it seems to fit.
She prescribed a nasal spray, I think it was nasalcrom. The insurance wanted it preauthorized, so the doctor changed it to Flonase, which is what the insurance wants the doctors to try first.
Problem is, it's a Category C drug, and I'm not okay with taking it. I think what they first prescribed was Category B. I'm going to call the OB and ask them if they can give me something else. My symptoms are VERY annoying, but no, the benefit of the medicine does NOT outweigh the risk to my baby!
Very frustrating. My boss thinks that the insurance company would have approved it if the doctor had pointed out that I was pregnant. But we'll see.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
When we stopped using birth control my allergist switched me from flonase to rhinocourt, which is category B. And it worked better for me and the smell wasn't as gross. You could ask if that would be an option.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
It annoys me that when I called my doctor's office to tell them about the pre-authorization requirement that my insurance has that the doctor told the nurse to just switch me to whatever the insurance covered, because it didn't matter, rather than trying to authorize the original prescription.
Well, it matters to me! I haven't even taken a tylenol the entire time I've been pregnant, and I've had several killer migraines. (Not that tylenol would have helped anyway.) The ONLY medicine I've taken has been a few Halls cough drops and 3 cepacol sore throat drops.
So there's no way I'm taking a Category C drug. I'm not even thrilled about Category B's!
I have a call in to the nurse and they're very good about calling me back.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Category B drugs have no known affect on the fetus. The only reason more of them aren't category A is that they don't have clinical trials proving it. Which makes sense, as who would sign up for a clinical trial while pregnant?
Breathing issues are serious. I took a category C asthma treatment during my whole pregnancy, because it was the only thing that worked and uncontrolled asthma has some of the same risks as smoking while pregnant. If your allergies are just annoying and uncomfortable then go ahead and refuse the drugs. But if they could be affecting how much oxygen is getting to your baby you might want to reconsider that "No way."
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay kq for getting a doctor's appointment!! Hopefully your card will come in time.
Kat - I hope you can get a prescription that will work for you. That sounds really frustrating and I can certainly understand your reluctance to take Class B and C medications (though I have to take one of each)!
I got to take a tour of the Birthing Center (at one of the 2 hospitals my doctor delivers at) last night. I had been leaning towards this hospital for several reasons (closer to my house with less chances for horrible traffic congestion, newer hospital, smaller hospital so it is less busy, recently renovated birthing center, good input from a couple friends who had delivered there, and not currently under construction) and we had pretty much decided that as long as we were happy with the tour, we'd go there. I was impressed by the labor and delivery suites, the security procedures, the options available, and the variety of different courses that are offered. Though I'm still scared about the whole childbirth experience, I'm not scared about the hospital. And I now have one less choice to have to make right now, which is a load off my mind.
[ October 25, 2007, 04:09 PM: Message edited by: ludosti ]
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Yeah, if I thought there was a risk to the baby, I would reconsider. I wouldn't refuse something really necessary, despite my No Way! It's nothing like asthma. On most days, I sneeze a lot, and at night I get more congested and have to blow my nose several times. On Monday night and Tuesday, it got bad enough that my throat was raw and hurting (post nasal drip, I think) and I generally felt crummy and very congested. That's why I went to the doctor, and I wanted to make sure I wasn't sick with something contagious. Through it all, I'm not having trouble breathing.
I understand that sometimes it really is necessary to take a Category C drug--but I don't think this is one of those cases. I felt like the doctor didn't pay enough attention to making sure I get the safest drug I could.
I'm skittish about all drugs, including Category B, because I don't want to be one of the unlucky ones who takes something they call safe only to have them suddenly say, oops! This is bad for the baby after all. Our bad!
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Have you tried a saline nasal spray or rinse? That might take care of it with no drugs at all.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Not yet, but the doctor did suggest that I get some saline nasal spray as well as the prescription. I didn't have time to get any this morning, but I am planning on it. I'm happy to hear it might have good results.
She also said I could take a decongestant, like Sudafed, but I don't take decongestants even when I'm not pregnant because of how horrible and dried out they make me feel. In that case, the cure is worse than the disease!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Hopefully once you explain your concern to the nurse, they will be able to better help you to find both something that works and that you can feel comfortable taking. It would be great if the saline would help enough or if the allergy symptoms go away with time.
I've been lucky that until the last week or so, my allergy symptoms have been virtually non-existent.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Make sure you get the nasal saline spray without the preservative linked to pre-term labor!
I know I talked about it earlier in this thread...
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
It's a very long thread! I'll see if I can google it up.
Posted by DeathofBees (Member # 3862) on :
I had serious congestion when pregnant with Mini-Bee #1 in combination with this weird plugging and occasional popping in my ears. My midwife said both were due to the increase in blood in my body and I was just swollen (I had a swelled head--who'da thunk it?).
The swelling in my ears was being aggravated by the painfully high volume of the sound system at church (we were attending 4 times a week during that summer) and the congestion by dry air-conditioned air.
Saline drops in my nose really helped clear the passages and unplugged my ears, too! I hadn't realized my hearing was suffering so much until suddenly my ears popped and everything was so much less muffled. We tried asking the church to turn down the speakers, but they looked at us like we were heretics, so we just sat far away from the beastly things. We tried going without A/C to control the dry air problem, but it was very uncomfortable in North Carolina summer heat. Besides, you can't escape it when indoors. Every store, restaurant, or house you visit has it going full-blast.
Of course, my congestion had nothing to do with asthma or any kind of serious condition. If I had been concerned about Mini-Bee getting oxygen, I most likely would have medicated, though usually I'm like you, Katarain, and don't like taking even mild meds.
My advice to all on this thread: drink water!
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
My ears don't hurt normally, but they have been itching!! And loud noise bothers me, but that's really not new.
kq, I can't find anything through google about that preservative, but now I'm concerned that I won't find any sans preservative. What do I do? Which do I buy??
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'll find it. Hang on.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Benzoate or benzoic acid. Sorry, it was in another thread.
Just read the ingredients on each bottle and don't buy one that has benzoate or benzoic acid in the ingredient list. Some brands have it, some do not. I'm pretty sure the Safeway brand nasal saline spray doesn't, because I think that's what I've used while pregnant, but don't take my word for it, check first. If there's none without it at the first store you go to, try another store, but most stores have at least one without it.
Also, you need to use nasal saline spray about once every 15-30 minutes for maximum effectiveness. Don't squirt it into your nose, spray it in the air in front of each nostril, lean forward, and sniff it up. Two to four puffs in each nostril, every 15-30 minutes as needed. At night, use a humidifier.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Thank you! I am especially thankful for the tips on how to use it. I have never used a nasal spray, and I'm afraid of getting that awful pain in my nose that happens when you "breathe" in water at the pool. Boy do I hate that feeling.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I've had a little bit of the weird ear popping, but it seems to have resolved itself on its own - I just needed to be patient.
quote:My advice to all on this thread: drink water!
Yes! Drink as much water as you can! I know it sucks to have to pee tons because of all the water and a baby encroaching on your innerds, but - trust me on this - you do not want to get dehydrated. Getting dehydrated while pregnant was the worst experience of my life (maybe that means I've just had a pretty good life, but I choose to think it's because dehydration is horrible) - I literally begged my husband to knock me out. Besides, getting dehydrated makes nausea worse (which is really not fun if you're already nauseated from being pregnant).
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Re: water, I just bought a 10.1 oz. water for 75 cents because I finished my 1 liter bottle from home. (The tap water here is horrible.)
How overpriced, and I'll be home in 30 minutes, but still, I needed water!
Gotta run!
Posted by Allegra (Member # 6773) on :
If you want to avoid medications all together try a neti pot. You can find them at natural food stores or online. Wikipedia Article Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
A month ago or so there was a big deal in the news here about babies switched in the hospital and discovered after 10 months. Apparently one father was (or rather, his friends were) wondering how two dark-haired parents produced a blonde baby, so he had a paternity test done and determined he wasn't the baby's father. Accused his wife of infidelity, so she had a DNA test as well and lo, the baby isn't hers either! So they called in all the babies born the same day in that hospital and found the switched baby, and now they're going to baby-swap. And probably go to counseling for a while.
THANK YOU WORLD, I NEEDED SOMETHING ELSE TO WORRY ABOUT.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Do hospitals there not do the plastic bracelet thing?
And if not, why not order one yourself and take it to the hopspital with you? I'm sure the chances are slim of anything happening, but you don't need something else to be worried about.
Or just insist on complete rooming in -- John was never out of his daddy's or my sight the whole time we were in the hospital.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Well, the doctor's office authorized the original prescription with my insurance company. Turns out it was for Nasacort--which is also a category C.
*sigh* I won't be filling it. I wasn't able to get to the drugstore last night, but hopefully I will tonight, so I can get some saline spray. I'm really okay during the day, but it's hard to get back to sleep when I wake up at 2am with bad congestion.
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
They do, dkw, and some even write the kid's name in permanent marker on its chest (!), which is why it was so alarming that the babies were switched - it seemed like it almost had to have been deliberate. The answer they came up with eventually though is that the bracelets were switched when the babies were being bathed; the hospital confirmed that bracelets are removed for baths. I'm thinking rooming in is an excellent idea... Posted by DeathofBees (Member # 3862) on :
Check hospital policies regarding rooming in. I wrote specifically in my birth plan that we were to have complete rooming in, yet my baby was taken from me for almost two hours after birth. The policy at our hospital was to take the baby to the nursery for the initial examination and for bathing.
The problem was that, because my baby wasn't crying or fussing, he got ignored for at least 30 minutes, then was placed in a warming crib with sensors on him to be sure that his temp was "just right" to bathe him. I should have just told them to forget the bath! He was in there for more than an hour, and when I came in and asked to hold him, they told me the warming crib is warmer than I am, so I shouldn't do anything to block the heat from the lamp. The best I could do was hold his little fingers!
Later, after I finally had him with me, I was informed that if they came in to my room and found me asleep (even if the baby was IN THE BED WITH ME!), they would take my baby back to the nursery. I told them they'd better wake me up before trying such a stunt, or things would get ugly. I could not leave my baby with my husband, either, because he didn't have the ID match bracelet.
The only solution for us was to sign out AMA (Against Medical Advice) less than 12 hours after the birth. I was fortunate Mini-Bee #2 and I had no complications, so we had that option. I shudder to think how much longer he would have been sitting in that nursery crib had I not been able to get up and walk down the hall to speak with the nurses.
We NEVER would have chosen a hospital birth had we been able to afford to just hang the insurance company and birth at home. Unfortunately, North Carolina doesn't permit nurse-midwives to attend home births, and lay midwives aren't covered by my insurance. I understand, of course, that home birth isn't an option for many moms for numerous reasons. So...the only thing you can do when you're stuck in the hospital is fight for your rights to be with your child.
I highly recommend finding a doula to be an additional (or primary) labor assistant. She doesn't have to take the place of your partner or coach, but she will be your advocate and make sure your wishes are followed. I found a doula through a program at the YWCA who was still working to get her certification with DONA. She didn't charge me a thing, but by the end of the process, I'd say she was worth thousands in the support she gave our family!
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Wow, DoB, that's awful. Did you ask why they had that policy?
The worst thing that happened was the first night after Lego was born, I did have him go to the nursery. I hadn't planned on doing that, but I'd been up all night in labor the night before, and had been so excited about having a baby that I hadn't slept when he had all day. So I figured I wouldn't be able to sleep with him there, even if he was sleeping and silent, just for that first night. I gave the nurses express orders to bring him to me if he woke up because he'd nursed very little all day.
At 4:00, I woke up and wondered why the heck they hadn't brought him to me yet. I wandered off to the nursery and found him sleeping. His chart said he'd been "fussy" from 2:00 to 3:00! I was so mad that I checked him out right then and there and wheeled him back to my room myself. Of course, then he woke up and wouldn't go back to sleep and I was exhausted, but that's life, I guess.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
quote:Originally posted by Lissande: the hospital confirmed that bracelets are removed for baths.
Well that rather defeats the purpose, doesn't it. Bring your own, and make sure it's the kind that doesn't come off unless you cut it off.
Re: rooming in stories -- Wow. I thought our hospital was behind the times, but that takes the cake. At least they knew better than to try to take John out of the room without one of us coming along. That wouldn't have been pretty.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
The only time they took Squoose out of the room without me or Pop was for the hearing test. Pop was there for the bath and the circumcision.
They also had bracelets for me and Pop, so either of us could take him out of the nursery.
When I had Superstation the bracelet we had showed a completely different, but readable number upside down. They were all numbers that could be other numbers upside down. When we had Squoose they had added a letter, so it wasn't just numbers.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
Also, the leg bracelet with the alarm attached constantly fell off our kids' legs. They never stayed.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
It sounds like we have a good hospital. I was quite pleased when, during our orientation, they told us that they bracelet the baby (with 2 bracelets - one wrist and one ankle) and Mom (& Dad) with matching bracelets. They also have some sort of RFID system so that if a baby is taken too close to any of the ward's exits, an alarm sounds and the ward is locked down until all babies are accounted for. They also do rooming-in and encourage the baby to stay in mom's room (circumcision or other procedures would mean moving them to the nursery with Mom or Dad accompanying them if desired, but regular assessments are done in the mom's room) and they pretty much only put them in the nursery when mom requests it. In fact, during the orientation, the nursery was completely empty - all the babies were with their moms.
I'll have to ask and make sure bracelets stay on during baths.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
They did the hearing test in the room in my hospital (and I had to leave because the lady doing it ignored the honkin' old "NO RUBBING ALCOHOL" sign on the door); the only procedures done in the nursery were newborn screening, footprinting, and bath, and one or both of us were welcome to stay with her through those. (Jeff did.)
I did send Bridey to the nursery for a shower and once all night when I had a bad reaction to codeine (authorizing formula that night only.)
Posted by DeathofBees (Member # 3862) on :
The hearing screen can be done at a later date. Both Mini-Bees had theirs done at the 3-week checkup at my midwife's office.
For the record...I mentioned hiring a doula, and generally, if Mom or Dad can't do it, she would be the person who would go with baby to the nursery to make sure he's not sitting around being ignored. I had sent my doula home because we'd been laboring all night and she needed sleep. She and I agreed later that it would have been better if she had stayed until we were settled in a postpartum room (a shifting rooms policy is lame, too, IMHO).
In all fairness, the baby in the nursery while Mom is sleeping rule does make sense from a security standpoint. I just think they ought to give you the option to be awakened. It's not like I expect a lot of sleep in a hospital, anyway. Another good reason for getting out of there ASAP. It's just not at all conducive to breastfeeding or bonding to separate baby from his parents.
Another bothersome note: while I was holding Mini-Bee #2's little fingers and watching that durn temp reading, a nearby baby was wailing for probably 30 minutes before the nursery staff attended him. I could see clearly on his namecard that he was "exclusively breastfeeding," but it took them that long to take him to his mom's room! The name on the card was a Spanish one, and I dearly wanted to offer services as an interpreter if the mom needed an opportunity to express her wishes to the staff. It's possible she never got a chance to tell them, "Bring me my baby as soon as he starts to cry." Spanish-speaking nurses are in high demand around here!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, I overdid it a bit today.
I haven't been able to drink, as you know, from about 11 at night until 2:30 or later in the afternoon. At 2 this afternoon I couldn't stand the brattiness anymore and, since the smoke has finally cleared enough for me to go outside, took the kids for a walk. It was a bit warm. We went to Vons (which is right next to the library) and got a late lunch (even though the kids had eaten already, I hadn't), and I drank a huge drink, but apparently not enough-- when we got to the library I finally decided I needed to go and my urine was scanty and brown. I let the kids rampage through the board books while I sat down on the window seat and got a few pages of a novel in, but a little later I started having contractions.
I called Jeff, because I didn't want to walk home (more than half a mile, uphill) with no further water (I can't drink the library's drinking fountain water without throwing up, and didn't really see myself walking over and paying for more at Vons), in the heat, while contracting (they were just Braxton-Hicks, but I'm only 12 weeks.) Jeff got permission to come home, picked us up, and I went home, laid down for a few hours with my feet up, and drank about 3 liters of water, and sure enough, the contractions soon stopped.
I'm not really worried (wasn't even at the time-- I knew I was dehydrated, and this has happened both my previous pregnancies, I get cx when I dehydrate and/or overexert myself, especially in hot weather), but I am going to mention it at my dr.s appt. on Monday. I think it will be a very effective argument for "I need a scrip for phenergan, please."
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
DeathofBees, yeah, that doesn't sound like a hospital I'd want to stay in (or deliver in), either.
And both my babies have had jaundice (high probability all mine will-- I have O+ blood and Jeff and the girls have A+.) I would have been really mad arguing with them to let us go when my girls were jaundiced. They would not have been happy.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
John was jaundiced, but they let us go home early anyway. He wasn't bad enough to be under the bili lights, the doctor just said to put him naked in a sunny window as much as possible and make sure he nursed a lot.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
That's how our girls were-- when they tested them. But they always get really worried because the kids are so pale that the jaundice looks a lot worse than it is.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Here's hoping you get that prescription, kq.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, I will. My doc is pretty cool about stuff like that, especially with non-first-time moms. He figures I know what I'm talking about, and if I say, "I can't take the morning sickness anymore, here's the complications I'm having because of it, it doesn't seem like it's going away, can I have some medication? Phenergan worked well last time", I'm pretty sure his response will be, "Here's a prescription."
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*bounce* I only have one more day to get through before I get to see my doctor (and probably my baby!)
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
How exciting, kq!
I'm just over 26 weeks now, and I had my glucose test on Friday. No gestational diabetes (though I think I've been eating too much Halloween candy because I was just below the cut off to have to come back and do the three hour test :blush: ), and I'm not deficient in iron. Things seem to be progressing well, but I feel HUGE.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I feel huge already! At least by 26 weeks, you're SUPPOSED to be big! I look about 5 months along, and I'm not quite 3. I can't tell you how many "twins" jokes I've gotten. I'm sick of it and eager to prove them wrong!
Posted by roxy (Member # 3416) on :
Wow, those are some pretty scary hospital stories. I feel really lucky with the hospital in my area, where having the baby room-in the entire time is the norm. I was very happy with the hospital tour, as it put me a little more at ease about everything. Baby should be here anyday, wish me luck!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Good luck!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
We saw the baby! One baby! Heart beating, spine formed, sleeping and not happy to be disturbed by the ultrasound.
I'm a wee bit further along than I thought, but just a wee bit-- I measured 13 weeks, 4 days. My due date is May 1. Baby's knees were drawn up and was turned facing us so not even a guess at gender. And I have the okay to get my wisdom teeth taken out whenever I want.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, and almost forgot the important part-- I have PHENERGAN!!! w00t!
I guess my doc doesn't prescribe it much, he had to have his nurse look up the dosage.
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
Happy no-nauseousness, KQ!
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
That's cool, KQ. You're due exactly 2 months after me!
I have my BIG ultrasound on Thursday. I'm 22 weeks. I'm hoping the baby will cooperate and let us know boy or girl. I had an ultrasound at 7 weeks, but the baby was just a little blob then. I couldn't see anything! I wonder if that's normal. It just occurred to me that maybe the machine was low-res? Should I have been able to see definition at that point? I hope that's not the case at my next one. I'll have to do a google search for 7 week ultrasound pictures.
ETA: According to the pictures I found, it is normal to just see a blob! GOOD!
[ October 30, 2007, 09:01 AM: Message edited by: Katarain ]
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay roxy you're almost done!!
Yay kq!! One little baby is a great thing and it's so marvelous to not feel nauseated after a long period of nausea/vomiting.
Kat - Those early ultrasounds sure are funny. I remember showing my husband the 9 week one and pointing out the head and body. His response "If you say so...." This next one will be much more exciting for you. We could identify body parts as they went flying past (she was really wiggly). I should be going in for a last ultrasound here soon (to check placenta placement), which should be really interesting.
Since it's been 2 weeks since I took the 1 hour glucose test and they haven't called me in to do the 3 hour one, I'm assuming I'm not diabetic!! I'm really happy because I had been really worried about it (I have a lot of the risk factors and I know that getting gestational diabetes would pretty much guarantee getting adult onset diabetes later in life), so this is a great load off my mind! Too bad little ninja has discovered how to pinch a nerve in my hip - I don't enjoy it and she seems to really like pushing on it. Oh well - I've also decided I can now start counting down instead of up - 7 weeks to go!
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: Oh, and almost forgot the important part-- I have PHENERGAN!!! w00t!
I guess my doc doesn't prescribe it much, he had to have his nurse look up the dosage.
(Hmmm, just a side note, don't forget that there are multiple methods of administration if you get too urpy to keep down pills. *prim, mouth-shut eyes-sideways look )
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
And those alternate administration methods can be very helpful when things are bad... Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, that's the first way I took it in the hospital when I wound up there while pregnant with Ems. But they switched me to tablets upon release.
And yeah, the pharmacist asked me, "They want you to take this orally, right?" before he filled the prescription. I gave him a resounding "YES!!!" >_<
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
*laughing
But desperation is the mother of, er, innovation. Or something like that.
---
Edited to add: My mother, a nurse, hung onto some alternative-access phenargans. I was always a little afraid of the fridge. I mean, yes, they were sterile, but ... but. As it were.
And I say no more.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
It's been 15 hours since I took my phenergan (since I was going to sleep, I went ahead and took a whole one) and it is still in effect. I had breakfast this morning, and am about to have lunch.
I CHANGED A DIAPER without gagging once. A really smelly one.
YAAAAAY for phenergan! It also helped with my insomnia. I'm thinking that if I can take just one whole pill each night after I am ready for bed, when the nausea has just started to kick in, and it will last all the way through (since my nausea usually ends around 2:30 I am hopeful that even if it's not a full 24 hour effect it's maybe 18), that will be really the ideal solution. Just take it before bed, sleep all night, and no nausea all day.
I told you I was very sensitive to it. My doctor will be happy to hear of this. He says he usually doesn't give anti-nausea meds to more-than-first-time moms unless they know something has worked for them in the past, because there are just so many women that nothing works for their morning sickness. But I told him phenergan REALLY works for me, and he will be happy to hear that I am right. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, and my sister had really bad hemorrhoids and kept... stuff for it in the fridge. We tried not to look at that part of the fridge (I think she used the butter or egg storer area.) Ick.
My dad has something of the sort, but he keeps it in the downstairs fridge reserved mostly for extra sodas and stuff. So I don't have to encounter it much.
Ah, the memories...
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay for Phenergan! It's what I take at night time too (though it doesn't last long enough for me to survive on it alone - hopefully it will for you). For day-time, I take Zofran. I'm seriously so happy for you!!! Having lived with horrible nausea for a couple months, I know how wonderful it is when it stops and you can eat again! Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Yay for good doctor's appointments!
I...have to go see the chiropractor tomorrow afternoon, or I'll never make it through the zoo with the kiddos. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
ARRRRRGH!!!
If it's not one thing, it's another. In addition to my already swelling breasts (I just had to buy new bras AGAIN), my colostrum is coming in more and more-- hard and fast today. It is NOT COMFORTABLE. It itches, it hurts, and there won't be a baby to relieve the discomfort for SIX FREAKING MONTHS. Why on earth does this happen to me? It happened last time too, but not quite so early!
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I've been wondering if that would happen to me, but it hasn't yet. Is it typically something that only happens for 2nd and subsequent pregnancies?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Typically, it's not supposed to happen until the third trimester. For some women, not until after the baby is born.
But for us exceptions, it happens in the second or even first trimester. With my first, it came in at about 16 weeks. My second, about 14, I think. This time, I think it was 8 weeks.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Okay. Thanks for the info. It'll be good to know what's happening in the third trimester if it happens to me.
I'm sorry you're having a tough time with it. It sounds annoying.
Hmm.. it itches? Can that be the first symptom before it comes in? Because I've been itching some, and it's very annoying.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Dry skin type itchiness is a common pregnancy symptom.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Itching can also occur just from the breasts growing.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(With my luck, by baby number 5, colostrum coming in will be my first symptom at 5 weeks. :| )
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I've always had dry skin, this was breast itching--where it's uncomfortable to scratch. Thankfully, it's been pretty rare.
I had to postpone my ultrasound. Hubby was feeling poorly today and I didn't want to go alone. A couple more days won't kill me, I suppose.
Posted by DeathofBees (Member # 3862) on :
If you have dry, itchy patches on your breasts, it could be yeast...you may want to check it and treat it before having your baby because you DO NOT WANT THRUSH!
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I had my first OB appointment today and they measured me at 10 weeks, 4 days (May 25th due date). The baby was healthy, squirmy, and with a great heartbeat (167). I'm feeling so much better! I miscarried this summer and have been so paranoid for the last few weeks. Now I feel better. Plus, I can start telling people. Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay Christine!!! That is wonderful news! I hope that things will continue to go well with your little one!
Poor kq! I've been wondering if I was going to have any colostrum issues during this trimester or not. So far, not. I've had a little of the breast itching (like Kat) that I assumed has been from growth and for a week or 2 some weird nipple peeling (it was really strange) that is thankfully over. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I have nipple peeling toward the end of the second trimester every time. I agree, it's bizzare. But you ignore it and it gets better. Thankfully.
Yay for healthy babies and almost out of the first trimester, Christine! I'm officially in the 2nd today.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Ooo . . . I'd forgotten the nipple peeling. That was weird.
I'm glad your nausea is letting up, kq. I had morning sickness all the way into the third trimester. The first time.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Congratulations?
(Congratulations!!)
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I hate that tense and very tight feeling in my lower abdomen that I've felt both at times when I've had a full bladder and right after emptying said bladder. Does anybody know why that happens? (It doesn't always happen either.)
ETA: It also happens sometimes when I stand up from sitting. Although that is usually painful, too, and not just tense/tight. I blame that on the all-encompassing ligament pain.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah. That and it can't hurt to drink more water and urinate more, just in case it's a matter of needing to stretch out your bladder some.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
As for you, dkw, I will be as well until we get an official announcement.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Might be Braxton-Hicks contractions. Just sayin'. I seem to remember feeling them more often early on when I had a full bladder.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
So what do Braxton-Hicks contractions feel like (or even regular contractions)?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Anything from menstrual cramps, to just a tightening in the abdomen, to a hand squeezing your insides really, really hard. With nails. And sometimes you don't feel them at all. I've had the full range of Braxton-Hicks every pregnancy, and honestly they can feel different from one to the next, never mind from person to person!
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Interesting. I thought that Braxton-Hicks contractions would feel like tightening then loosening... ya know, like contracting. That's probably what it is.
Posted by DeathofBees (Member # 3862) on :
Braxton-Hicks were varied for me, too. Sometimes it felt like baby had momentarily turned into a basketball. Sometimes it was like menstrual cramps. They were always in front, though. I was warned that it would be contractions all the way around to my back that would signal true labor. Is this what everyone else experienced?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I often have Braxton-Hicks in the back, sometimes in back only, sometimes all the way around. I had some today, in fact.
And I have had every kind of contraction imaginable while in labor, too-- front only, back only, all the way around, felt more on one side or the other...
Honestly, the thing that really signals that you're really in labor is when you progress with contractions. (Or, if you're lucky, your water breaks.)
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I always wondered if I'm weird since I haven't been able to identify anything like Braxton-Hicks contractions. I guess the paranoid part of me wonders if 2 months down the road I'll even know when I go into labor (logically, I know that as things progress I'll certainly be able to tell what's going on, but I still get weird paranoia about "not knowing"). I guess it doesn't help that my menstrual cramps always feel to me like bad intestinal cramps.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I didn't have noticable Braxton-Hicks until about 2 months before John was born, and then it was just a few and not very often. Couple times a week.
And I was in labor for 7 hours before I figured it out. (In my defense, I was mostly asleep. I thought it was a little weird that I had to get up and go to the bathroom exactly on the half-hour from 11:30 on, but didn't figure it out until I actually stayed awake after the 5:30 am bathroom trip and so was awake when the 6:30 contraction followed by immediate need to pee hit.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
MOST people do not have Braxton-Hicks until well into the third trimester. If then. Women have gone into labor with no prior noticeable contractions whatsoever. You're normal, ludosti.
I, on the other hand, am WEIRD. And have a family history of B-H throughout pregnancy-- my mom actually was on relaxants with my brother (her fourth) because they were so constant, from 3 months on. I had to take relaxants for a while with Bridget, because they were long and strong and close together enough that they worried the doctors coming that early. So rest assured, I am the abnormal one, not you. Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Sleeping through the first bit of labor sounds nice to me! And I'm glad I'm not so weird.
I've started having birth dreams. The last 2 nights in a row I've had dreams of giving birth or being in labor. If only giving birth was as easy as the first dream (she literally popped right out)... The dream last night was funny in that at the hospital they had these giant stuffed animals for us to hold and squeeze during contractions.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Hey, not a bad idea... Then no risk of breaking your husband's hand...
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I slept a fair amount during the later part of labor too. And in the middle I went in to work for three hours, went out to lunch, folded laundry, etc. About 11 o'clock that evening we put the hospital bags in the car and then I took a warm shower (to relax) and went to bed. The contractions were pretty strong at that point, but as long as Bob had his fist pushing very hard into the small of my back they were manageable, so we got some good sleep before heading into the hospital at 2:30 am. Once we were checked into the hospital I laid on my side on the bed and he sat on the doctor's stool behind me and leaned his head on my shoulder and we both dozed between contractions until I went into transition.
It was a great way to do it, because John was born at 7:48 am and we both felt well enough rested to be up for the day.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Man, you're lucky.
Labor makes me jumpy, I can't sleep more than 10 minutes at a time, no appetite, throwing up... From the early stages, when I'm BARELY progressing at all.
Which means with Emma I had had almost zero sleep for two weeks before they finally induced me.
Which is why as soon as it started with Bridget, I told my doctor it was time to induce me. Muuuuuch nicer.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
Before I had bin, I had a dream that I had her and forgot to feed her for a week. I woke up panicking and freaking out and crying. I think my labor progresses more like kq's. my cerix was ripe at 36 weeks and I was having contractions and stuff and pretty miserable. After 3 weeks of me whining, the doctor decided it was time to induce.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
My back hurts. Actually, a little lower than my back. And has for a week now. Grrrr. Nothing I do provides long-term relief. I think it's my hip joints getting loose and already pulling things out of whack.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
flushtration: when you finally get comfortable and warm in bed and then realize you *have* to pee, NOW. You get up, waddle to the bathroom, sit down, and realize that you just went right before you laid down, baby was just sitting on your bladder, and you really didn't have more than a couple drops to expel. Wipe, flush, repeat. Grr.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
I have to go in for the 3-hour gestational diabetes screening. I am SO sad. Probably more than it warrants. It's one of those things that is enough lifestyle-related that I feel guilty about not having enough insulin, for crying out loud.
So I haven't been diagnosed yet, but in the week and a half till I can get in for the 3-hour screening, I'm going to start with some of the lifestyle changes. I guess that means, um, no ice cream? Other than that, there's not that much to change, except for being more consistent about walking. Again, except for the ice cream, we pretty much eat a diet with lean protein, whole grains, lots of fruits and veggies...
Grrrrr.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
You might be fine. I had to do the 3 hour screening because the one hour was borderline and the 3 hour one came back perfectly normal.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
So did my sister-in-law's. It is good to not, you know, eat a lot of candy the few days before the three-hour screen, though.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Also walk around as much as you can in between the blood draws.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Thanks...that helps a lot. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, also make sure you're well-hydrated the 24 hours before the fasting period begins.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Hopefully your 3 hour test will yield better results than the 1 hour test did! I've known several people that did fine with the longer test.
Well, at my appt this week (34 weeks), I have now reached my pre-pregnancy weight. I was hoping to make it a little bit longer till doing so, but that's ok. I did ok on the 1 hour glucose test so I'm not diabetic (a huge weight off my mind). Hopefully my ultrasound next week will show that my placenta has moved up to where it should be. I'm looking forward to being done with work in 2 more weeks - I did way too much yesterday and am really paying for it today. My little ninja is being good and has already oriented herself head down (hopefully she won't turn around in the next few weeks). We started working on her room over the weekend, which has me all excited. We're really starting to get excited for her to just get here.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I think the glucose test is my least favorite part of prenatal care. I wonder how big a fuss my doctor would make if I refused it...
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
I don't know how a given doctor would feel about it, but it might be worth asking.
It's good to get an accurate result because if there is gestational diabetes, the baby is more likely to grow into a linebacker shape: i.e., his/her shoulders can get wider than his head, so during delivery, the baby's head (usually the biggest part) can get delivered but the shoulders may get stuck. [Usually if the head gets through the pelvic bones, the shoulders can get squooshed together enough to slide through right after. For babies of moms without diabetes, the head is kind of like the limiting factor -- if the head can make it, so can the baby. But in the case of unmanaged diabetes, the baby can get stuck halfway out.]
The only ways to deliver the baby at that point are to break one of the collarbones so the shoulders can be squashed tighter together, or you can push the head back inside and do an emergency c-section. Shoulder dystocia is a medical emergency, and it can be prevented by keeping the blood sugars of women who qualify for the diagnosis of gestational diabetes under control during the pregnancy.
Also, the mother's blood sugar crosses the placenta, and having high levels during pregnancy stimulates the baby's insulin to be extra high. When he/she is born and that blood sugar isn't coming from the mom, the baby's glucose can drop dangerously low and send him/her into seizures on the first day of life.
The stuff tastes horrrrrid and it makes you feel crappy (I've had to take the test for reasons other than pregnancy), but I think I'd always encourage people to do the screen.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I didn't think the glucose test was that bad. Granted, I only had to do the one-hour because I was fine. The orange stuff they made me drink wasn't even that bad.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm not sayin' I'll actually refuse. I don't actually mind the stuff (they're always like, "You drank it already?" 'cause I chug it down in 10 seconds instead of taking the whole minute to drink it), but it does make me feel awful, and it's a pain because the lab here (unlike the first one I took) makes you wait IN THE WAITING AREA the whole hour. With toddlers, not fun. I have no family or personal history of diabetes (of any kind, including gestational), and I'm always monitored pretty closely for the baby's growth by ultrasound (because of my constant and frequent Braxton-Hicks starting in the first trimester.)
But I probably won't REALLY ever refuse it. I just want to. *sigh*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I should mention that the waiting area has no tv, is about the size of a standard handicapped bathroom stall, no windows, smells like lab, and has dirty, old chairs.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(Maybe next time I should claim claustrophobia and see if they'll let me walk around outside.)
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
I always worried more about the seizures than the shoulders, but that's because I wasn't responsible for the babies until after they were delivered. Shoulder dystocia was something for the OB-Gyns to worry about.
In residency, we had several normal-looking babies develop hypoglycemia secondary to the mother's diabetes during pregnancy. They seemed to be more prone to septic shock, too, although I don't know if that's a consistent thing.
---
Edited to add: Jeesh, enough with the doom and gloom! I'll stop. I just meant to say that there are good reasons for the test, but if you don't want to do it, you can certainly talk to your own physician about it. A given person's risk level may be higher or lower than standard, just as ketchupqueen indicated.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
kq, could you take a laptop and play some games or watch a downloaded movie?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I suppose. If my husband gets his laptop. And lets me borrow it. We don't have one yet.
That won't stop me from having to get up every two seconds to pull the kid(s) away from the (non-child-proofed) outlets, drag them out of the trash can, pull them away from the open rooms containing needles and poisonous substances left in unlocked drawers, and stop Bridey from walking up and poking, hitting, or tugging on strangers.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
I wonder how upset my OB will be when I refuse it (and I will). I'm willing to buy a monitor (if he'll prescribe it) and regularly test my sugar myself, but I *will not* drink that stuff ever again. It makes me feel TOO AWFUL, and I usually fail the first one and pass the 3 hour anyway...so, maybe on the high side of normal?
Plus, I can't help but think that making a pregnant lady who normally has no more than a bite or two of chocolate to drink the equivalent of 2-5 candy bars in less than 5 minutes couldn't really be a great thing for her or the baby.
Again, I'm not opposed to testing, I just don't see how this could be better than regular monitoring like what my diabetic grandma does.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
What a shame there isn't someone to babysit for you. I remember that being out where you are was hard in terms of social support. Your family lives far away and the two of you are pretty much on your own, right?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(The lab is right in the middle of a very nice shopping area. If I was allowed to walk, I could window shop while pushing them in the stroller for 45 minutes and be back and only have to wait 5 minutes for the draw. My first pregnancy, I was allowed to go out and walk around with my husband after they made it clear that I was not to eat or drink ANYTHING, even water. I promised to comply, and they let me go, warning me to get back on time or I'd have to do it over.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Actually, my mom and dad are both in the area. But it's a logistical thing. Jeff may or may not be able to be with me, depending when they do the test. It's just a shame that I have to sit cooped up for an hour when I'm perfectly capable of keeping track of the time and not eating or drinking.
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
Around here, they send you home the appointment before the (1 hour) glucose test with the drink and instructions. Drink it an hour before you show up, and they draw your blood as soon as you get there. Sounds much nicer than what you have to go through, kq!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
That sounds wonderful. I'd be totally willing to do that. But our doctor's office doesn't do the actual lab work, lab work is done through a contracted lab down the street. So I can see why they don't do it that way.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Boon, I think the oral glucose tolerance test is more sensitive than spot glucose measurements by fingerprick. That is, it picks up more cases where there might be problems than does the fingerstick method, even done repeatedly.
Blood sugar control is a funny thing. For people with diabetes in general, it doesn't seem to matter much what their spot checks show -- the real marker of problems is the 3-month test, the hemoglobin A-1c. There have been a lot of studies to show that the spot checks are far far less helpful in predicting outcomes than the Hgb A-1c. I think the OGTT is kind of like that.
--
ketchupqueen, I'm sorry things are so difficult for you and your family. I hope you work out something better for you with the lab than what happened before.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I hope so too. I am thinking of explaining what a hard time I have at the lab to my doc and asking if the test can be done at the hospital instead. (His office is on the hospital grounds, one building over from Emergency, all the surgical and recovery stuff, etc., and I know there is a lab in his building, on the first floor next to the pharmacy, because I've been there when Bridey had to have blood tests for jaundice two days after we were sent home. I can't think of any reason why my test couldn't be done in that much nicer lab.)
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
KQ -- when I did my diabetes test, they gave me the drink at the previous appointment and had me drink it at home exactly one hour before my appointment. So I didn't have to wait in a waiting room. I would hate to have to wait in the waiting room for an hour!
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
That sounds like a great solution.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I suppose if my doctor isn't willing or able to change the lab, I can also ask him to call and tell them to let me leave instead of making me wait in the waiting room. He's always willing to go to bat for his patients.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
I guess my question then would be...if I did test positive, what exactly would they do? Tell me to watch my diet, exercise, and monitor with a finger-pricker, right? So why take the test if I'm willing to just act like it's positive?
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
If you tested positive on the OGTT, there would be a different nursing protocol for the newborn baby, you would have serial Hgb A1-c tests during the pregnancy, you would be more strictly monitored for pre-eclampsia, more detailed and frequent sonograms are recommended (and the fetus might get an intrauterine echocardiogram), you would be getting the more comprehensive "biphysical profiles" for fetal monitoring instead of the less detailed "non-stress tests," the normal ranges for glucose levels are adjusted (and you would be prescribed insulin at a different level than a non-pregnant woman -- a.k.a. "early aggressive treatment"), and so forth.
A whole lot of things change when someone is diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
CT, have I told you recently how grateful I am to have you here, willing to answer questions and let us pick your brains?
Okay, one more question: everything I've read says the OGTT should be done between 24-28 weeks. Well, because of the doctor's previous mistakes with my due date, I should be at 29 2/7 weeks at my next appointment, instead of the 25 5/7 he thinks I'll be at. Wouldn't that make a difference in the results?
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
It is nothing compared to having a tax expert. Nothing.
You think I'm exaggerating, but you are wrong.
---
I think there is a nomogram to adjust the values for gestational dates, but I'm not sure. This isn't my area. (I knew I wanted to be a pediatrician when I did my OB-Gyn rotation and had to restrain myself to stay with the mother after the birth. Big people are complicated and scary! Babies make sense. I wanted to be with the baby.) My information about adult medicine is both rusty and outdated.
Are you in a comfortable enough relationship with your physician that you can ask about the dates issue, and ask if there are alternatives to the OGTT? Like I said, it's not my area, and I could be wrong. It's just that my training was pretty strict on these points, way back when.
I bet Theaca could field this much better than I could. You might consider a new thread with her name in the title?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
This brocure from the NIH says that while it is usually done between 24 and 28 weeks, it can be done as early as 13 weeks, so I would guess that means it is not as time-sensitive as some other tests?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(I am getting some interesting things searching for information on gestational diabetes and the OGTT. For instance, a study showing that substituting 18 jelly beans was just as effective for the one hour GTT as that strange hyper-sugar drink, and was tolerated without side effects by all women in the study, as opposed to the drink, which did produce side effects! Wild!)
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I have to do my glucose test at my next appointment, about 3 weeks from now. I wasn't looking forward to the finger pricking (oh boy oh boy do I HATE that), but now I'm concerned about the glucola making me feel sick. That will suck.
My cousin had gestational diabetes. I thought it might be more common in overweight women, but she's always been thin--although she did gain a lot of weight with the pregnancy. Our mothers are twins, so I wonder if that means I'll have it, too. I've always been big, and I haven't gained much weight at all.
One of my doctors actually told me that it would be alright if I gained some weight--although my husband thinks the doctor only said that because he was in the room. (Since maybe he gets a lot of women whose husbands give them a hard time about weight gain. My husband said he wanted to tell the doctor, don't worry, she was this size when I married her. I thought it was funny.) The doctor I saw at my appointment before that one told me she'd like me to stay the same weight until the end of the pregnancy. I think I'll try to do that.
Anyway, back to gestational diabetes, my last gyno and I were pretty sure that I am Insulin Resistant. I wonder how that would affect my chances of having GD.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
GDM is more common in certain groups of women (overweight, certain ethnicities, family history of others with it, etc.), but about 1/3 of the women who get it have no risk factors.
That is to say, ~1/3 of the women who develop gestational diabetes are of normal to low weight, have no family history of it, have no personal history of it, etc.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I'm curious about whether those 1/3rd can sort of bring it on by their habits changing during pregnancy--eating more, exercising less, essentially gaining weight.
I'm not too worried about it personally, although I am quite overweight. If I have it, I'll just deal with it.
I feel like this pregnancy, so far, has been so normal and mild. I suppose it can get worse. Perhaps the bad stuff is saving up for a real bang when I give labor and it will be horrendously awful. (Which is why I won't rule out an epidural, although I'd rather go natural.)
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Hmm. This is interesting
quote:In gestational diabetes, the pancreas is not at fault. Instead, the problem is in the placenta. During pregnancy, the placenta provides the baby with nourishment. It also produces a number of hormones that interfere with the body's usual response to insulin. This condition is referred to as "insulin resistance." Most pregnant women do not suffer from gestational diabetes, because the pancreas works to produce extra quantities of insulin in order to compensate for insulin resistance. However, when a woman's pancreas cannot produce enough extra insulin, blood levels of glucose stay abnormally high, and the woman is considered to have gestational diabetes.
quote: Unlike type 1 diabetes, gestational diabetes is not caused by a lack of insulin, but by blocking effects of other hormones on the insulin that is produced, a condition referred to as insulin resistance.
It seems like gestational diabetes IS insulin resistance. So I guess I already have it. Still, I wonder how it would translate into pregnancy. I'm going to have to ask my doctor.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
According to an online chat with a doctor, having it already does increase my chances.
quote:womenshealthADM: from angel: It is mentioned that the patient will have an abnormal glucose test. Is that regularly or on occasion? Can that include during pregnancy?
DrLisaFish: We know that insulin resistance is part of PCOS and many women with the syndrome will have impairment of glucose tolerance which is in between normal and diabetes. There is also a higher chance of developing diabetes, but not everyone with PCOS has abnormal glucose tolerance.
When a woman becomes pregnant, she needs to increase her insulin production to overcome the effects of placental hormones, and for women who already have insulin resistance there is a higher chance of gestational diabetes.
I think I'll have to research the recommended diet for someone with GD and go on it now, rather than waiting 3 weeks for the test.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Yes, GDM is insulin resistance during pregnancy, and a certain percentage of women who experience GDM will go on to develop Type II DM (loosely known as "insulin resistance," although there is probably more going on than that at the cellular level) outside of pregnancy.
Katarain, my husband was recently diagnosed with Type II, and we have modified our diet. He has controlled his diabetes solely through diet and exercise. I'll try to pull together the most useful things we found. Meanwhile, HelpGuide has information from the American Diabetes Association (great resource, very reliable) has a summary of information about diabetes that you might find helpful.
---
Edited to add: The area of most interest is "Glycemic Index," which indicates how high a particular food will spike your blood sugar after eating it. Some foods have more calories, but the raise in blood sugar is more of a gentle slope than a sharp peak (gentle, low slope is better). Generally simple carbohydrates eaten alone without fat or protein are the worst for you.
This means whole grain products, whole raw fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and lean meats are best.
The worst foods are the "white foods": white bread, sugar, potatoes (! ), white rice (especially sushi rice). However, if you are going to have "white food" sometimes, it's better to combine it with good fats and proteins to blunt the glycemic spike. For example, it's better to eat whole wheat bread than plain white bread, but you can make both choices healthier by having the bread with a little peanut butter or cheese. The white bread still isn't as good for you as the whole wheat, but it's better than eating it plain.
[ November 09, 2007, 10:31 AM: Message edited by: ClaudiaTherese ]
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I have known a lot of success on the "Insulin Resistance Diet," and my doctor approved my staying on it while I'm pregnant. I haven't been following it like I should, but I think I will start it up again. I imagine it would be beneficial for Gestational Diabetes as well.
Basically, the diet limits you to 30 grams of carbs in a 2-hour window, and you must eat protein with those carbs. (7 grams of protein for every 15 grams of carbs.) Protein, vegetables, unsweetened dairy, and some fruits are unlimited as long as you are genuinely hungry. Potatoes and corn are exceptions, and should be treated as regular carbs. You're encouraged to eat multiple small meals, or 3 meals with small snacks in between. Since I work, I very rarely go to the trouble of packing lunch AND snacks, so I'm usually on 3 meals a day anyway. I also don't count fiber in my carb total. And it also includes the 80/20 rule, which I like. If you follow the plan well 80% of the time, you can "cheat" 20% of the time.
It's really a lifestyle rather than a diet. It's easy to follow, too. Although I am definitely a carb-addict.
I'm not following it today. My lunch is pasta, with very little protein. I could cut down on the pasta portion and have a piece of chicken and it would be fine.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I love whole wheat breads. And I found a bread that only has 5 net carbs per slice. It's Nature's Own Double Fiber bread. It also has 5 grams of fiber per slice. Even my husband will eat it because he wants to up his fiber intake. (It's not as good as really hearty whole grain whole wheat breads, but it's pretty good for the whole wheat that you're usually going to get at the grocery store.)
I don't know much about the glycemic index, but I have started to research it on and off. I think if I mixed it with the IR diet, so that I'm eating GOOD carbs, it would be a good thing. (And I guess technically I could have more than 30 grams of the GOOD carbs, but I'm not sure.)
I don't like white bread, so that's good. (Except for grilled cheese sandwiches and usually hot dog and hamburger buns--but those are easy to substitute for good wheat versions.)
Limiting potatoes makes me really sad, though. I love them. Pasta, too. But Barilla makes a pasta called Barilla Plus or Pasta Plus which has extra protein and is lower in carbs. It's good, too. Yay!
I miss peanut butter. I'm trying to abstain from peanuts until I'm done with pregnancy and breast feeding to give my child an edge on her odds of developing a peanut allergy. There's no history of a peanut allergy in my family, but I figure better safe than sorry, and if I can make this sacrifice now that might pay off later, then I'm going to do it. I have accidentally had peanuts a few times, but no more than a bite at a time. I just hope what I'm doing will help. But I know there are plenty of other protein options, like cheese, beans, meat, other nuts, etc.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
We like the Barilla pastas, too! Pasta also has a lower glycemic spike if it's al dente instead of soft.
Sounds like you know a lot already. You might want to flag a thread for Tatiana, as she is very well-versed in all things diabetes, and she would be the one to give you pointers at this time.
Exercise is important, too. I won't tell you that you should exercise until I have gotten my own self in a regular routine, though. (*rueful)
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I had no idea about the al dente thing. I have to make our pastas soft, as it's easier for my husband to eat.
I scoured the net for information and bought a book on the insulin resistance diet when I realized that was very likely what I had.
I really like that site you linked to, though. I had an idea that insulin resistance was a precursor to type 2 diabetes, but I had never seen it in print before. I thought it was a could be thing, but I see now that it's a pretty serious possibility. I don't like that at all. It tells me that I have to be more stringent about regulating my Insulin Resistance now before it develops into Type 2.
I don't understand why I don't exercise. I've had two successful weight-loss periods in my life. The first one involved aerobic exercise 3 times a week (usually walking or using my air walker machine) and 2 times a week of weight training. It was very easy and made me feel great. And I lost a lot of weight. I wasn't on a diet, either, but the exercise did curb my appetite. The second time was on the Insulin Resistance diet, which also was easy.
Why don't I do the things I know can help me, when they're not even that hard?? It makes no sense. But I know I have to get rid of that mindset and do them anyway if I'm going to prevent having a more serious condition later on.
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
quote: Limiting potatoes makes me really sad, though.
When I was doing limited-carbs, I substituted sweet potatoes for when I wanted potatoes (still carbs, but not as starchy/as much). Since I love a good buttered sweet potatoe, it worked well.
I wish they were as inexpensive as potatoes, though! Eating low carb is not a poor person's diet.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I really wish I liked sweet potatoes. On the IR diet, they're unlimited.
Posted by DeathofBees (Member # 3862) on :
Yummy veggie-intensive snack:
Vegetable Dippers
INGREDIENTS cooking spray 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and grated 1/2 onion, diced 2 medium carrots, grated 1 cup broccoli, grated (peel the stems and grate them, too) 1 cup cauliflower, finely chopped 1 cup spinach, finely chopped 1/2 tsp bouillon powder 2 eggs, beaten 1/2-3/4 cup flour
PROCEDURE Preheat oven to 375 F. Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray and set aside. In a large bowl, combine veggies. Mix in bouillon, egg, and flour. Spoon mixture into hands and form into individual patties 1/4-1/2 inch thick. Add additional egg and flour if veggies are not binding together to form patties. Place on baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes on each side or until edges are crispy. Serve immediately with low-fat ranch, ketchup, salsa, hummus, or your favorite dip.
All this talk about sweet potatoes reminded me of these. They're even good reheated in the oven later. Mmmmmmmm.
Edited for spelling error.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote: I wasn't looking forward to the finger pricking (oh boy oh boy do I HATE that)
Finger prick? It's always been a blood draw for me.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Finger prick is what you do at home, and it is what is done for routine draws in a diabetes clinic. Often one-time lab results (such as the OGTT, but sometimes even just a simple blood glucose level) are done as a venous draw.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I was thinking this morning about the test (I only have 2 more appointments before my doc's going to want to do it, I think. Maybe 3, but probably 2.) I realized that I can just refuse to stay when they tell me not to leave. If I come back 50 minutes later and they refuse to do the second draw, I can have them call my doctor. If they threaten not to complete the test as I leave, I can call my doctor then, and have him call and blow them up. (I intend to clarify with my doctor beforehand that I know there is no medical reason to keep me there and that it is personally difficult, and that I don't intend to stay and wait the whole hour.) That's something I know he won't have a problem with.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
No. They told me it would be a finger prick. I don't know why they do it that way.
Although, an at home glucose test is painless (with the machine we have at home, anyway). The finger prick tests I hated were when I was a kid and they would squeeze the heck out of my finger. THAT hurt! But testing a little drop of blood? No problem.. although I do get squeamish waiting for the prick. (I'm squeamish now just typing about it.)
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
It just depends on the the eqipment available and the training of the staff. All labs can do venipunctures, because most blood tests are from venipunctures. Any given lab may or may not do fingerpricks, but most diabetes clinics (where they are set up to deal with dozens of patients with diabetes at a time) usually do fingerpricks, although they aren't set up for venipunctures.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
They took blood from my arm at my first visit, so I know they're capable. It is curious. I would much rather have them take it from my arm than my finger.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
You could call and ask. Most people prefer fingerpoke, so they might assume you do. A phone call to ask for the other in advance might make a difference for you.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I am having incredible deja vu with this conversation. Has someone said this before? (I also prefer venipuncture to finger prick.)
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
I am absolutely convinced that exercise is the reason I did not have GD with pregnancy #3. We joined the gym about 5 months before we got pregnant. I continued working out (fewer days and less strenuous) through the end of the 8th month. It was so nice not having to do the diabetic diet again.
Other than the daily testing, the doctors didn't treat me any different because of the GD diagnosis. No extra u/s or anything. They didn't even do an u/s after I spent the night in the hospital having contractions at 33 weeks with Mooselet. I spent the rest of the pregnancy on bed rest, but the doctor said I didn't need another u/s. Knowing what I know now (with all of his problems), I wish I had demanded another u/s. I am sure they would have seen at least one of his problems then, and they might have noticed that I had low amniotic fluid.
Oh well, hindsight is 20/20.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
That probably depends a lot on the doctors you have. I have had doctors who dismissed stuff-- "Oh, it's going away, so we don't need to do any more tests to find out what caused it." Then there's the doctor I have now (and am never ever leaving), whose attitude is, "If you're not comfortable with what's going on, neither am I. Let's see what we can do to find out more about what's causing it."
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
The variation in practice is remarkable. I can only say that where I have been trained (U Illinois in Urbana-Champaign, U Wisconsin in Madison, and UBC in Vancouver -- all teaching hospitals, obviously), GDM was a big deal. There was also always a pediatric resident at the deliveries of infants of diabetic mothers, even if the mothers and babies seemed perfectly fine throughout.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Wow--thanks for all of the info, EVERYONE.
It was especially interesting to hear about the insulin resistance diet--I lost a LOT of weight on the South Beach diet a few years ago (& kept most of it off, until getting pregnant!), and it uses the glycemic index. That's why I was pretty sure I was already mostly eating the right kinds of foods (minus the ice cream, of course) .
I'm not sure if the lab will let me leave to walk around or not. I'll call my doctor to check.
And, as for blood draws...I have gotten over my squeamishness about THAT since getting pregnant. A few years ago I got faint when a nurse took my blood...I don't have TIME for that anymore. In addition to all of the 'normal' blood draws, I've had to do 2 24-hour urine collections (and boy, THAT'S fun), which they also wanted blood for, plus I'm Rh-negative and had to get a Rhogam treatment just this week. Add to that the 3-hour glucose test, and...
So in case anyone is counting (I most certainly am), I had various blood tests that took place on 10/13, 10/28, 11/3, 11/6, and I can look forward to multiple draws on 11/16.
Ah well. I also have a sonogram again next Wed. (I get them regularly to monitor fetal growth, because of my risk for preeclampsia), which I actually AM looking forward to. Yay baby! Posted by PSI Teleport (Member # 5545) on :
"A month ago or so there was a big deal in the news here about babies switched in the hospital and discovered after 10 months."
Woah. I just read this! Can you imagine having a child for ten months and then having to give it up? I don't know if I could do that!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I honestly don't know how the parents didn't notice.
But then, our children tend to be pretty distinctive looking at birth; both so far have had my husband's brachiocephalic head.
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
Apparently they haven't switched them back yet but are in contact with each other. Basically both sets of parents would prefer to have both children - understandable. Also apparently they were switched almost immediately, so the parents maybe only got one good look at them in the first place and later dismissed any oddities in the euphoria of new parenthood.
I told my mom about this case and she said I was the only baby born in the hospital that day so not to worry. It IS true that I have never looked like anyone in the family...
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, I mean, the moment the baby is out of me my husband is usually over snapping pictures. I guess I find it odd others wouldn't have some kind of record to compare it to.
But then, in my experience, one of us is with the baby all the times, except if I send her to the nursery for a shower or whatever. So that's different right there.
Another argument for rooming in...
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I had my first prenatal visit yesterday and got to see ultrasound pictures of our little gummy bear. It was so neat to see that there really is a moving, living baby in there. Sometimes the first trimester just feels like a disease because you're not feeling the baby kick yet.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
My mom used to work in the nursery of a hospital. The nurse misread a tag and took the baby to the wrong room. The sleepy mother said, this isn't my baby. The nurse calmly told her it was indeed her baby. She was just confused cause of the birth. But the baby was tagged as breastfed and it was clearly hungry, so she needed to either feed the baby or give permission for formula feed. Mother asked, you are sure this is mine. Nurse said yup. Mom breastfed. Then, after the breastfeeding, nurse looked more closely at tags, went uh oh. The woman who breastfed had to go through intensive screening for transmittable diseases, as did baby. A very bad day for the nursery.
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
I've heard similar stories, like where the nurse insisted yes this IS your baby and the mother asked then why does my daughter have a PENIS. I guess that's a hard one to miss.
Posted by MidnightBlue (Member # 6146) on :
My mom and my aunt (my Dad's sister in law) were in the hospital giving birth at the same time. They kept trying to give my mom my aunt's meds, because they had the same last name. My mom made extra sure that they gave her the right baby, though. After three daughters, my uncle was desperate for a boy. (He eventually got one on his second or third grandchild.)
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by scholar: My mom used to work in the nursery of a hospital. The nurse misread a tag and took the baby to the wrong room. The sleepy mother said, this isn't my baby. The nurse calmly told her it was indeed her baby. She was just confused cause of the birth. But the baby was tagged as breastfed and it was clearly hungry, so she needed to either feed the baby or give permission for formula feed. Mother asked, you are sure this is mine. Nurse said yup. Mom breastfed. Then, after the breastfeeding, nurse looked more closely at tags, went uh oh. The woman who breastfed had to go through intensive screening for transmittable diseases, as did baby. A very bad day for the nursery.
There was a story like this on the news last year, I think. Kind of disturbing, but probably no lasting harm done. It is, however, one reason why I will be rooming in with my baby.
Last time they kept taking my son away to put him on the warmer. I made my husband go and watch him in the nursery. They weren't happy about it and kept telling him that HIPPA regulations meant he couldn't be in the nursery with our son if there were other babies there. I think they had to have been misinterpreting HIPPA because that makes no sense. We threw a fit when they wouldn't let us be there for the circumcision so they took all the other babies out of the nursery and put them in the hallway. Like that made any sense.
I've spoken to other hospitals and I know there are many with policies that a parent can be with the baby at all times, so I don't know who's got HIPPA wrong or if those other hospitals have designed some way around it.
Either way, I intend to do things differently this time. They kept swaddling my son in two layers of blankets and me, a new mother, tried to hold him and nurse him through all that cloth. It was a pain and his body temperature kept dropping so they had to take him to the warmer. This time, I'm taking him out of the stupid blankets and putting him on my chest, which is designed to do the job better than a warmer anyway.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
quote:They weren't happy about it and kept telling him that HIPPA regulations meant he couldn't be in the nursery with our son if there were other babies there. I think they had to have been misinterpreting HIPPA because that makes no sense. We threw a fit when they wouldn't let us be there for the circumcision so they took all the other babies out of the nursery and put them in the hallway. Like that made any sense.
It sounds like they're just using HIPAA as an excuse to enforce hospital policy. Parents are allowed in NICUs 24 hours a day and there are lots of babies there. Per HIPAA,they do ask you to leave during shift change, when they report on all the babies, but there are windows you can look through to see your baby. If your baby isn't doing well, they'll try to give reports elsewhere so you can stay. I can't believe they took all the babies out in the hallway. They didn't have a procedure room? I actually semi-attended 2 circumcisions in the PCN (progressive care nursery). The procedure room and the pumping room were the same room divided by a curtain, so I was pumping breastmilk while they were circumcising babies. It was pretty surreal. Neither baby made a peep, either, for which I was very grateful.
Ladies, let me urge all of you to take every test your doctor thinks you need, unless you truly feel it is dangerous for you or the baby. I went through (literal) record-breaking procedures, medications, and testing, all of which was necessary for Aerin to survive. Most of it was extremely painful and uncomfortable (I actually had track marks when I delivered Aerin, from all the blood draws and IVs), but I'd do it all again in a second. When Aerin was in the NICU, there were 2 babies with complications from the mothers' GDM. Both went home within a week and they were huge (especially compared to the micropreemies), but you don't want your baby in the NICU even for a day. Trust me.
Liz B, blood draws and Rhogam stink. I had 4 shots of Rhogam and about 4 dozen blood draws when I was pregnant. The trick is to find the best nurse and/or tech and request them. If you can get one who usually works on children, that's your best bet.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, we have a teeny-tiny hospital, circs are done in a surgical procedures room, not the nursery, and HIPPA is respected by covering charts and having a small office separate from the nursery where reports and requests can be made and issues discussed, so that parents can be with their babies in the nursery during footprinting and baths and such, if desired.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Yeah, well, I'm not using that hospital again. I thought the labor and delivery went fine, but I think I'd have been better off in a nice hotel with room service for recovery. Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yesterday was a fun day. My brother and his wife got to see and feel their little neice moving around and my brother (who is studying immunology and is getting ready to head to grad school) was checking to make sure my doctor has been doing all the appropriate tests. I'm not sure quite why, but I was really touched by that. I also had a baby shower, thrown by a couple of my mom's friends. It was wonderful to see lots of women who I knew growing up and hadn't really seen since I got married. They were all so sweet and we all had a great time. My mom also loved getting to see all of her friends (because of her poor health and immune system issues, she rarely leaves the house or visits with people). It was great.
[ November 11, 2007, 12:53 PM: Message edited by: ludosti ]
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm glad you had fun!
I almost had to go to the hospital again. Thankfully, the crisis was averted. You can read about it on my blog.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Ack! That's really scary! I'm so glad everything seems to be ok. I tend to get annoyed with how much everyone babies me (I'm not even allowed to stand on a step stool to get stuff above my reach) but because I've done relatively well I forget how easy it is for a minor thing to become a crisis. Aren't home teachers great?! I'm so glad he was able to help. We've also been lucky to have excellent ones who've really helped when I was not doing well. And congrats on the great sales!! I love getting great deals on things! Our family budget was really tight growing up, so I was raised to really look for good deals. With the baby coming (and me staying home), all that experience will really come in handy.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Actually, it wasn't a home teacher that was able to come, just a friend. But I'm sure our HT cares, he just wasn't available. Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Heh - yay for my pregnancy brain, reading things all wrong!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Do you coupon, ludosti? We save a ton of money couponing and shopping sales and thrift stores. That's how I was raised too and people are amazed we survive (and even have small luxuries now and then) on the amount of money we make in a year.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Oh yes, I am an avid coupon and sale/clearance shopper (and have never been averse to second-hand things). I figure those skills I didn't even know I was learning will be essential.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
They will definitely help!
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I was wondering if anyone else has a really sensitive belly or innards. I don't know why, but during my ultrasound, the wand pressing on my belly HURT! I had an ultrasound a few years ago for some pain I was having and it hurt then, too, so I know it's not a problem with the baby.
Am I weird? There were certain spots that hurt more than others. Watching the baby on the screen was fun, but the experience was definitely marred by the pain of the pressing. Doctors pressing on my belly during physicals or other checks also hurts. I hate it.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Me, too, Katarain. They all act like it's weird but I've talked to enough women who experience it that it's not that unusual.
I also experience pressure as pain, as I found out with my first epidural.
The second time around, they gave me a narcotic IN WITH the epidural, which was much better.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Yeah, you can poke me in the upper arm with your finger and it will actually hurt me. That kind of lingering pain. But if you do the same thing with your first, it's unlikely to hurt--unless you hit me a lot harder.
I'm not planning an epidural, but I'm leaving it as an option. What should I ask for? I am wondering if having the needle in will hurt me. (They leave it in, or something, right?)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
The needle won't hurt (at least not long.) They take it out, it's just a tube in your back. The contractions will, but the pain is more bearable if you're just feeling the "pressure pain" as opposed to pressure-pain on top of pain-pain.
If you want to just forget the pain altogether, ask for narcotics.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Oh, I understand now. I thought you meant the pressure of the epidural itself was painful.
The whole reason I'm hesitant to get the epidural is that I want to be able to feel what's going on with my body during all of those hours before the actual time when the baby is coming right then.
I hear that it's good for one reason because your body might be telling you to get into a weird position because any other position hurts or is uncomfortable--and the whole reason for it is that it will help the baby get into the right position for birth.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, you'll still feel it. If you're a pressure-as-pain gal, you'll still feel it.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(The difference is, if you have the epidural you'll be stuck in bed and unable to move your legs effectively.)
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Yeah, I'm very reluctant to get stuck in bed. That's what I'd like to avoid. I hear they have walking epidurals now, but I'm not sure they're much better for walking around a lot.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
If you really want to remain mobile but do want something to cut the pain, I recommend IV drugs.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I, too, feel discomfort bordering on pain when doctors probe or press. So it's not weird.
As for the epidural, it was the most wonderful thing ever. I'm not even going to try to go natural this time. I hate the idea of the narcotics because they mess with your brain. I want a clear head. What decided me against the narcotics was my childbirth class teacher talking about her experience with it. She thought it was funny, but apparently she thought her baby had four eyes and had a bit of a fit about it. Of all the things I want to feel when my baby comes, the things in my head are at the top of my list, so no narcotics for me!
The epidural frightened me a bit before I got it. I was worried about being stuck in bed and unable to move. Really, though, the pain was so bad just before I got it that I wasn't into moving much anyway. Like KQ said, you'll still feel the pressure of the contractions, but not the pain so it's much more bearable. I don't think anything can remove all the sensations. I felt everything that was going on and had a clear head to enjoy it (not fuzzy from too much pain or narcotic drugs).
That was my experience, anyway. I know there are some women who go all natural and think it's cake.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
If she got fuzzy, they gave her the wrong dose, or she hyper-reacted.
They gave me just enough last time to make me not feel the pressure-pain (or at least not register it.) It DID make me not feel any sensation-- except the urge to push when it was time.
It was great, and I'm asking for the same thing next time.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
My husband says he's on board with the home birth thing, but I don't know if he's being serious. I do know that he's very tired of the doctors around here. (He's convinced it's at least partly the location, since we've encountered so many who don't seem to care.) So while my OB-GYN's are okay, we're not thrilled with going to the local hospital.
Anyway, I would love to go the midwife route, but they're not easy to find around here! And what really keeps me from going ahead full force with it is the fear that the baby will need immediate after-birth care. I know I could have a midwife at the hospital, and if I could find one, I think I'd be likely to do that.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Have you tried the BabyCenter boards? There's a homebirth board there, I think, and a plea for midwives in your area might elicit information you could never find on your own without knowing someone who'd used one. Their boards tend to be fairly well-frequented by all kinds of women, so you could get a good and varied response there, I hope.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
I had a friend who was extremely anti-epidural. The pain got so bad that, while she still wouldn't give in on the epidural, they were able to convince her on the narcotics. She started hallucinating and was unable to concentrate on anything going on- I don't think her baby had four eyes, but she was definetely not in the delivery room. The thing that makes no sense to me is that even after this, she thinks epidurals are evil- spending your birth in agony, hallucinating about all sorts of things and freaking out because you can't understand why the strange pain (since she couldn't remember she was in labor) is a better more natural way to have a baby then having an epidural take the edge off.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Good grief, talk about your hyper-reactions. Having had a hallucinatory reaction to a drug before, I can not see why she would think that was better than an epidural!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(I checked; they not only have a homebirth board, but also a "using a doula" board, a VBAC support board, and a natural/unmedicated methods board, all of which might be good places to ask for midwife recommendations, as well as regional boards you could also try.)
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
kq, thanks for the suggestion. I'm browsing around there now.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Well, it's good to know that the hallucinogenic effects are area, but the story still freaked me out. Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
quote:Originally posted by Christine:
That was my experience, anyway. I know there are some women who go all natural and think it's cake.
I've never met anyone who's been through it who thinks it's cake. Natural childbirth is hard work. It's more than worth it, for me, but it is NOT cake.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by dkw:
quote:Originally posted by Christine:
That was my experience, anyway. I know there are some women who go all natural and think it's cake.
I've never met anyone who's been through it who thinks it's cake. Natural childbirth is hard work. It's more than worth it, for me, but it is NOT cake.
You should talk to my mother in law and her mother. I think it's genetic, but they have labors that last about 30 minuets from start to finish and barely made it to the hospital on time. My husband's grandmother found it amusing that she only made it to the delivery room for 1 of her 6 kids. My mother in law gave in to nature and decided to do home births after the first two barely made it to the hospital. I'm not sure she ever used the word, "cake" to describe her deliveries, but she certainly thought they were very easy. She even had people ask her to be a surrogate mother because her pregnancies and deliveries were so easy.
I don't think natural childbirths are usually easy, though. I really think my in-laws are weird.
I do understand that they are usually hard work but that many women find them worth the effort.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I found it similar to what I've heard people say about running a marathon. Near the end you start thinking "Why did I want to do this, again?" once it's over you're really glad you did it, and after about a year you start thinking, "You know, that was pretty fun. I should do it again."
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
My mother in law says giving birth is just mild discomfort. And she of course did not use an epidural. Oh, and did I know ultrasounds can hurt the baby. When I pointed out that they didn't have epidurals when she gave birth, she claimed that they had drugs which is the same thing. Oh, and my friend that hallucinated, she was induced almost against her will (medical necessity) and had mg in her IV and had been in the hospital for two days as they tried to ripen her. So, hers might have been a drug interaction thing combined with the exhaustion and stress. My cousin has horrible pregnancy and easy births. She doesn't have an option of epidural because the baby is out to quickly. The last one, they gave my cousin a room, but weren't ready yet, so she wasn't hooked up to the IV or anything. She told them, we need get me set up fast. And I'll need a dr in case mine doesn't make it up here in time. And the nurses were like, you just went into labor. Lay down, we'll get to you soon. Don't worry. So, she layed down and her husband came out a few minutes later and said, "um, I can see the head. should someone maybe come in and help us."
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I think being dismissed at the hospital when I *knew* something about how my body worked (like if I knew my labor was always fast) would make me absolutely infuriated.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
My cousin's first baby took maybe an hour and a half (they were out, her water broke, she went to the hospital while her mom went home to get the video camera, then staight back to the hospital. By the time her mome arrived, the baby was born. And every baby after that has just gotten faster. Her doctor apparantly arrived breathless, cause he knew from experience when he got the call that he would be lucky to make it in time.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Anyone else have rhinitis of pregnancy? (That means, stuffy nose from being pregnant.)
It seems like lately around 5 or 6 PM I start stuffing up; soon after the sinus pressure headache comes on. By bedtime the only way I can sleep is to take some Sudafed. When I wake up I'm fine. Lather, rinse, repeat.
This is a new one for me, didn't have it with either Emma or Bridget. *sigh*
Posted by Dark as night (Member # 9577) on :
Wow, I just discovered this thread. 35 pages! Amazing. Having read some of the earlier posts regarding epidurals, I felt somewhat compelled to say a few words, as your friendly neighbourhood anesthesia provider. Keep in mind that though I've seen many women in labor, I've never been pregnant myself, so my experience is purely objective.
First of all, we do inject a local anesthetic to numb the skin and underlying tissue before we put in the epidural, so in theory one shouldn't feel the sharp pain, just some pressure. Now, having said that, I've had women complain of pain as I started putting in the needle. Some people just keep going and tell the patient it will go away. I usually inject more numbing medicine, unless there's some reason why I can't. Personally, I believe that getting the epidural should not be a terribly uncomfortable experience. But of course there are still people who feel a lot of pressure/discomfort, but hopefully it is worth it in the end.
Like KQ said, the needle comes out and only a small thin tube, approx. size of a thick guitar string, remains. And yes, the idea is that you still feel the pressure of the contraction, without it being painful. Now, as the labor progresses and different nerve fibers become involved, it gets more difficult to relieve pain without making you more numb.
Katarain, you mentioned walking epidurals. I've never actually done THAT dilute of an epidural. I suppose one could skip the local anesthetic altogether and just use narcotic in the epidural. That would allow you to keep walking. But like I said, I haven't done one of those. Most patients can still move and feel their legs, since the mixtures we use are still very dilute, but for safety reasons they aren't up and about.
Sounds like KQ had a good experience with IV drugs. Not everyone does, as was mentioned before. I am biased to epidurals, just because in my experience they provide good pain relief and very positive feedback from moms.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I have never had IV drugs. I've had narcotic in with the epidural, because I explained to my second anesthesiologist that I experience pressure as pain, so he gave me both, so I wouldn't be in pain. I didn't get the drugs through an IV.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Heck yes do I have rhinitis. It's been pretty much constant, with it getting worse at night. I've been prescribed category C drugs, which I was complaining about a few pages ago, but I refuse to fill or use them. I found one category B drug in my online searching, but I haven't asked for it. I kinda gave up.
I don't go anywhere without a hefty supply of tissues. I sneeze a lot, which seems to help loosen my congestion up enough that blowing my nose is productive. I wake up somewhere between 2 and 4 every night to start a new round of sneezes and nose blowing before I can get back to sleep.
On another topic... I'm struggling with figuring out what I need to buy and register for. My family has started asking about my registry or what I want, and it's really hard to figure out! I'm very much a minimalist. I only want what the baby really needs. I think I need to look up that old thread about baby product recommendations!
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
OK, everyone (not y'all) who doubted me when I said I would deliver late is now officially wrong wrong wrong. At the ultrasound on Tuesday they estimated baby size at 3.7 kg and said they usually start talking about inducing after ten days (i.e. a week from yesterday). By that time she could be well over 4 kg, even bigger than I was (two weeks overdue, c-section, 9 lbs). Can I mention how I do not want that to happen??
Maybe the doctor at my exam tomorrow will have some bright ideas. Or else it'll be time to try out some home-induction methods. Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
We had a discussion about what to buy on page 19, Katarain. After having had a baby, here is a list of the things we honestly needed:
- 10-14 outfits (one week's worth), including baby kimonos, one-piece bodysuits, and shirt/pant outfits - A few pairs of socks (I didn't like socks because they would never stay on, so I opted for footed outfits much of the time) - 2 towels - 4 baby washcloths - two packs of cloth diapers (the most basic kind) to use as burp cloths - 6-8 blankets in varying sizes and weights - depending on seasons: coat, hat, snowsuit; or swimsuit and sun hat
- crib with mattress - 3 crib sheets - small dresser or closet organization system - armchair, glider, or rocker (optional . . . I didn't have one) - diaper disposal unit (We like the Diaper Champ because it uses normal garbage bags) - crate, bag, or basket for laundry - some sort of toy box - baby tub - car seat - diaper bag (I used my old backpack for a while, but a real one is nice) - stroller (we now have two, a "baby" stoller that reclines and an umbrella stroller to take shopping because it fits better in the car) - bouncy seat or swing (both optional but nice to have 'cause babies love them) - portable crib if you plan to be out or traveling when baby needs to sleep
- supplies for breastfeeding or bottle feeding, whichever you choose to do (see other sites for what you'll need here)
- diapers and wipes (buy just a few at first and see how fast you go through them) - diaper rash cream - digital rectal thermometer and disposable plastic "sleeves" - nasal aspirator - gas drops (a lifesaver for us) - baby wash - baby lotion - baby tylenol - baby nail scissors (far superior to baby nail clippers) - baby sunscreen - at least two bottles and one can of formula, regardless of whether you choose to breastfeed or formula feed
There's a lot of stuff people will tell you you need, but if you're broke or determined to minimize clutter, I think you'd do fine with what's on that list.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Thank you for the list. I had looked at page 18, but still feel quite overwhelmed about what we'll need.
I'll have to look at your list again later in the day. I just started having another migraine. *sigh* So I have squiggles in my vision and it's very hard to read.
At this stage, it doesn't hurt, but later I'll feel nauseous and tired and just icky. I may or may not have headache pain. Mostly at this stage I just feel sorry for myself.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
(not overwhelmed because it's so much stuff, but because it's hard to know which things we'll need and what brands/types to choose. This china recall thing has me worried.)
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I disagree about the nail scissors -- I much preferred clippers. But they're cheap, so get both and figure out what works best for you.
I also disagree that you need to have a can of formula in the house if you're breasfeeding. If there's no where in town that your spouse could possibly get formula if you were taken to the hospital at 3 in the morning and it makes you feel more secure to have it there in case of emergencies then it might be worth it for the peace of mind, but that's a personal choice.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Is there a benefit to a rectal thermometer over an ear thermometer? (We already have an ear one.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yes.
The ear one is good for reassuring yourself that the baby doesn't actually have a fever.
If the baby DOES actually have a fever, you're going to need to get a rectal temp because it's more accurate, and that's the one the doctors want to have.
BUT they usually give you a thermometer at the hospital, all you'll need to get is covers for it (and make sure you have petroleum jelly, of course.)
I disagree with several things on that list because you're going to get them at the hospital, or won't need them for several months.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(But really, I'm glad you have an ear thermometer because when I was a new mom I ALWAYS thought the baby was hot and I was checking her temp constantly. With the ear thermometer I could reassure myself without even waking her. I shudder to think what I would have subjected her to otherwise.)
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
You might want to look into what the hospital will give you. We came home with formula (the little bottles for breastfeeding moms, I got the big can in the mail free a few weeks before I gave birth), a diaper bag (cheap and I eventually replaced but a lot of women at church use the hospital provided one exclusively), thermometer, nasal aspirator, nail scissors, a receiving blanket and hat, half a bag of diapers- which is good cause you don't know what size your baby will be- if its a big one, he/she might go straight to size one, small might want preemie diapers (even if not preemie they can be small enough for that), and the nurse gave us a pair of socks to use as scratch mittens (bin loved to scratch her face from birth, the nurse apologized profusely when she came back with a little scratch on her face after a nursery trip and then gave us some socks to put on her hands to prevent it from happening again).
So, I would add scratch mittens if you decide on footsie outfits (or socks to use as scratch mittens). I also use the diaper champ and am pretty happy with it. On registering for clothes, I was told not to bother. I did and I got none of the outfits I registered for. I did however get enough clothes that I could make it until 9 months without buying bin any clothes- of course, I have the only baby girl in the family and am a nice person to buy gifts for (my sister in law has the only boy and criticizes everything she gets- she has actually told people to return things and buy her something different). I, on the other hand, am excited about everything bin gets and take pictures of her wearing it and send the pics to the person who gave the outfit.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
We used an underarm thermometer. It might not be quite as accurate, but we've never needed it to be.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
Oh- for thermometers- I personally liked the pacifier thermometer. It isn't as official or good, but for a quick guess, it's nice.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Ditto on the "you don't need to buy because the hospital gives it to you" thing, but since I didn't know if all hospitals give out what mine did, I included those things just in case.
You'll probably get:
- a diaper bag (though ours was crap, and the handle fell off after a month or so) - a pacifier - a small can of formula (perfect size for emergencies)
You might get more than that, but I definitely did not get to keep receiving blankets or socks or hat from the hospital. You might.
Posted by Dark as night (Member # 9577) on :
Sorry, KQ, I misunderstood you. Yes, narcotics in the epidural work really well as pain relief without causing side effects to both mom and baby.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
We got with our first:
-diapers -wipes -pacifier -thermometer -diaper bag -changing pad -formula samples (both liquid and powdered, in both can and single-serve packets) -bulb syringe -hats (2) -recieving blanket (but not the one they used in the nursery, a "gift" one they gave out for each baby) -disposable nursing pads -large disposable absorbent pads (good for diaper changes) -diaper rash cream sample tube -lotion sample -baby wash samples (2) -insulated bag with ice packs for breastmilk storage/transportation (though I think we used it for that once; great for taking ice pops to the park, though) -book on breastfeeding put out by the AAP, including chart to keep track of feeding and diapers (which I didn't use, although the diagrams on latch were useful) -pads for mom (I was still having heavy bleeding, my regular pads weren't doing it)
...as well as all the pamphlets, free offers, new baby fact sheets, etc.
Second baby, different, smaller hospital, I got:
-diapers -extra-soft small disposable gauze-type pads (which they use instead of wipes, you wet them with water) -insulated diaper/breastmilk storage/transportation bag with ice packs, this one a bit bigger and more multi-purpose -large disposable absorbent pads -bulb syringe -thermometer -small sample can of formula -hat
...and again, the standard pamphlets, offers, etc.
I could have had a paci there, too, but I had discovered the kind I liked best and brought those to the hospital with me, so I didn't need one and they used the ones I brought.
Moms who did not plan on breastfeeding at both hospitals were sent home with larger amounts of formula and usually a bottle or two as well.
A slightly larger hospital in our area gives out baby t-shirts with the name of the hospital, too.
Having been through it twice now, what I've really come to appreciate is what I should BRING to the hospital with me! I think this time I've got the list down pat, at least for my needs and wants. Next time I'm bringing the ring sling, too.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
You forgot the weird stretchy mesh underwear. Or didn't they have that at your hospital?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
They had that but I was in regular underwear by the time I went home. They do give you that to wear at the hospital but they prefer to have you not bleeding that much when you go home. With Ems, I just doubled pads-- theirs over mine over underwear. With Bridey, they gave me Pitocin after delivery and I was bleeding less than a normal period when I left (actually within a few hours of the birth) and it was done in two weeks (as opposed to three months.) I'm asking for the Pit after delivery again.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Yeah, I started wearing my own as soon as possible -- I'd brought a package of cheap cotton briefs that I could throw out if they got ruined, but they packed up the rest of my package of mesh ones with my other stuff.
It's still in my dresser drawer, I should probably just throw it out. Or maybe I could take them along next time. Do you think I'd get a discount if I bring my own? Like the 5 cents off at the grocery store if you bring your own bags.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
LOL!
I'd keep them. If nothing else, they may come in handy for a craft at some point. But then, I'm a pack rat... But really, I can think of so many things to recycle them as! Spiderwebs for Halloween, swaddling clothes for a Baby Jesus diorama, even tying on gauze pads in an emergency when you run out of tape and pressure bandages and need to get a cut to the ER without bleeding all over... (Last time that happened I used a diaper. But gauze and mesh stretchy panties would work too. Actually it wasn't to the ER, it was to my dad's house. Anywho...)
Posted by School4ever (Member # 5575) on :
On the baby list I disagree with a few things. Don't buy the baby swing or bouncer unless you know your baby will like them. This is as simple as asking a friend if your baby can try out theirs. I am so glad I did this because our son hated them!
We also did not get a separate laundry basket, I just put his dirties in with ours.
We have never had a diaper pail. This may sound gross, but we just put the diapers in with the rest of our trash. Our trash can has never gotten that disgusting diaper pail smell because when all the trash goes in the same place it gets emptied faster. When we go to our in-laws, they have us put all the day's diapers in a plastic grocery store bag. At the end of the day we take it out to their outside trash can. This also really helps with the smell.
We used the washclothes as burp clothes, but this meant that we had more washclothes.
I actually agree on the two stroller thing! We now just use the umbrella stroller because he is two, but the big stroller was nice for walks.
We used a baby wrap to carry him around. I had an infant car seat that you could take out, but I much preferred carrying him in the wrap. I did not like lugging around the car seat at all.
I do not like baby lotion. This is highly clouded by the fact that my son has bad eczema. As the doctor explained to me, the entire purpose of baby lotion is to make the baby smell good, it actually dries out their skin. Even if our next child has normal skin, I will not be using that stuff.
Posted by School4ever (Member # 5575) on :
Oh, and about diaper bags. Our son's birthmother got two diaper bags in the hospital and passed both on to us. One bag was from Similac and the other was from Enfamil. Then my husband's cousin (a L&D nurse) gave us one from her hospital. We have plenty of diaper bags, and we did not have to buy any of them.
Posted by School4ever (Member # 5575) on :
Sorry, I really can't usually contribute much to the conversation usually.
About pacifiers. I like how the hospital gives you one to start with. This way you can find out if your baby likes pacifiers. If your baby does, then you can buy more, my baby did not like them, so that was one expense I was saved, and yet I still got to see what he thought.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Great! Thanks for the tips. I'm dying for them right now. Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Best tip I ever got was from one of my friends right as I went into the second trimester. She told me it was time to put away all the pregnancy and birth books I was obsessively reading and start reading about babies, breastfeeding, and parenting.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, about the hospital pacifiers: my daughter gagged on them. Therefore, she spit them out. I switched her to smaller ones and she was okay (although she only took them for 2 months.) So babies that don't like the hospital pacis, may like other pacis...
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Why I Love My Doctor (actually, the whole office):
Because I have a history of high blood pressure, I am at risk for preeclampsia. (It turned out the HBP was caused by the estrogen in my birth control, & resolved itself when I switched types. Still, since my bp is clearly sensitive to hormones, they monitor closely as a matter of course.)
I take my bp twice a day with my home monitor. On Monday & Tuesday, it started going up--not a whole lot over where it had been, bottom number in the low 90s instead of mid+80s, but still, that's over the threshold. So I called my doctor and the receptionist immediately took my concern very seriously, called the doctor (who was out at his other office), and got back to me within 30 minutes. Since I had no other symptoms (headache, dizziness, swelling, blurry vision), they decided to have me come in Thursday AM for a bp and urine check (for protein).
The main reason I love them is this: They managed to take my concern 100% seriously without freaking me out. The receptionist (also a nurse) told me to continue monitoring & call immediately if it went over 100, but that given my lack of other symptoms (& my history, and the fact that at previous checkups my bp/ protein had been fine), everything was probably just fine. The bp/ protein check Thursday was just for reassurance.
So I went in Thursday and everything was fine...bp was even lower than at home, 130/70.
Naturally I am worried about the possibility of preeclampsia. But I feel so reassured to be going to this doctor. I am SO glad I switched. And although I currently have no plans or intentions to induce, I can understand why a mother might, in order to have a particular doctor there.
In other news, I got the 3-hour gestational diabetes screening over with today. We'll see how it turns out. After doing some more reading about the screening, I'm hopeful--one website said that having a cold can skew your 1-hour results, and I was just starting one the day I did mine. (Didn't realize it was a cold and not allergies until the afternoon.) But after all of CT's information, I'm definitely intending to strictly follow all of my doctor's advice if I do end up having it!!
dkw: What books did you read? That sounds like good advice to me. It's probably about time for me to start thinking about stuff like that. It's a little scary. I know virtually NOTHING about infant care.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by scholar: Oh- for thermometers- I personally liked the pacifier thermometer. It isn't as official or good, but for a quick guess, it's nice.
Well, since my son refused a pacifier, we didn't get any use out of the pacifier thermometer we got. Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by School4ever: On the baby list I disagree with a few things. Don't buy the baby swing or bouncer unless you know your baby will like them. This is as simple as asking a friend if your baby can try out theirs. I am so glad I did this because our son hated them!
This sounds sensible, but I'm actually going to go ahead and disagree somewhat. Granted, I got both of these items for free as gifts (new bouncy secondhand swing) but it took my son some time to get used to them. The truth is, he didn't want to sit anywhere but in my arms for 3 months and then I was able to interest him in the bouncy. He got interested in the swing about 4 months. Once he did get interested and get used to them, they were great...but I don't think a one-day trial with a friend would have given me any real information about this.
quote: We have never had a diaper pail. This may sound gross, but we just put the diapers in with the rest of our trash. Our trash can has never gotten that disgusting diaper pail smell because when all the trash goes in the same place it gets emptied faster. When we go to our in-laws, they have us put all the day's diapers in a plastic grocery store bag. At the end of the day we take it out to their outside trash can. This also really helps with the smell.
This isn't a bad idea, really, but I do love my diaper genie.
quote:Originally posted by School4ever: Oh, and about diaper bags. Our son's birthmother got two diaper bags in the hospital and passed both on to us. One bag was from Similac and the other was from Enfamil. Then my husband's cousin (a L&D nurse) gave us one from her hospital. We have plenty of diaper bags, and we did not have to buy any of them.
I got three free diaper bags and still went out and bought one. Two of the diaper bags had formula advertisements on them and I breastfed. The last bag isn't bad -- it's kind of a backpack style -- and I used it as a backup bag when I accidentally left our primary bag in my husband's car. Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
quote:I do not like baby lotion. This is highly clouded by the fact that my son has bad eczema. As the doctor explained to me, the entire purpose of baby lotion is to make the baby smell good, it actually dries out their skin. Even if our next child has normal skin, I will not be using that stuff.
I absolutely agree, but I didn't know why on earth the pink baby lotion seemed to make Lego's skin problems worse. We used Eucerin (what my sister with terrible eczema uses) and regular lotion for him, depending on how bad his skin was at the time.
I had a Snugli and never liked it. I felt like it kind of forced Lego into an uncomfortable position, and it put a lot of strain on my back. I would like to try a sling, but I found I ended up just carrying him a lot of the time rather than "wearing" him. The mommies I've seen with slings look so much more comfortable, and the babies are always in better, comfier positions.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
My baby loved the snugli, hated the sling. She couldn't look around and move as freely in the sling. She hates her expensive big stroller, loves the unbrella. We never carried in her the carseat, though when we went into restuarants, my husband would bring it in, while I carried her and then we would pop her in while we ate.
About the trusting doctor, that is the most important thing about having a baby. I went on medicaid six months in and my doctor didn't take medicaid and I refused to change drs. I would rather pay the money for someone I really trusted then go to someone free but I couldn't trust.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Mine both hated the Snugli. I got a sling with Bridey, and she moved around just fine! She didn't like the cradle hold but she loved the kangaroo holds from birth.
Posted by School4ever (Member # 5575) on :
I love Eucerin, I was hesitant to suggest it just because it seems like a lotion for adults, but we still use it on our son, and I would not switch for the world.
I guess I also have a bias against swings, they always look like they are about to throw the baby across the room.
None of the diaper bags we got had the advertisements on them, just in them.
We actually got two pacifiers in the bags, one big one that looked kind of old school, and one that had the nuk shaped nipple and was smaller. He did not like either one. I kept trying and trying.
After the first couple of days of brand new parents, (babies definitely know when they are with strangers - plus he spent his first two weeks with his birthfamily) he calmed down and only cried when hungry or tired.
He cries more now that he is two. I think he is finally understanding that we won't put up with temper tantrums. He has not tested me once today.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Can someone explain the difference between a snugli and a sling?
I bought *something* for my son that never worked. I think it was called a sling, but actually the stupid thing had so much elastic in it that when I put my son in, he fell to my lower stomach even at the tightest adjusted level. I wanted something that held him firmly against my chest.
I would really love something like that for my new baby (coming in May) because now I'll have to have my arms free to deal with a toddler. Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
A snugli looks like a front backpack, and the baby's legs go down through holes. Some have the baby face you, some have the baby face the world. A sling is often just a long strip of cloth and a ring, that you wrap around yourself.
Posted by School4ever (Member # 5575) on :
my sling has no elastic.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
My sling is a ring sling, also has no elastic. It is extremely adjustable and I can snuggle baby right up to my chest, or on my hip, or on my back, or... Go to Maya Wrap's website to view videos of different ways to wear a ring sling. (Mine is actually Maya Wrap brand, but I bought it used for $10, less my $9-and-change trade in. Total was $0.17 when all was said and done, which was cool. It didn't come with the cd but since all the videos are viewable on their website, I didn't mind at all!)
Snugli is actually a brand of front carrier. It has straps that cross in the back, and the baby can face forward or backward in the carrier, which has leg holes and fastens/snaps up to hold the baby in.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Here is a picture of a Snugli being used in both a front and back facing position. Like I said, neither my kids nor I liked the Snugli. It overheated the baby (and me) very quickly, hurt my back, and they didn't like the way their legs were forced apart.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Grrr.
Last night and the night before I had some heartburn but I had hoped it was from eating spicy food. Tonight, no spicy food, more heartburn, and worse.
Instead of my morning sickness going away and being replaced by heartburn, I now have morning sickness AND heartburn.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Thanks!
Yeah, it looks like I just got a really bad sling. I've seen people wearing the snugli but I'm not sure it looks as comfortable as a sling. Plus, ideally, I'm hoping to learn to nurse with the baby in the sling. (I did find discrete ways to nurse in public last time, but they involved carrying a boppy everywhere I went and it takes up more room.)
Posted by School4ever (Member # 5575) on :
I made my Maya Wrap, they have instructions on how to do it on the website. That and the videos really makes me feel as if they care more about the family than about profits.
Posted by DeathofBees (Member # 3862) on :
quote:Originally posted by Christine: Yeah, it looks like I just got a really bad sling.
I have used 3 different types of slings, and all of them are good for different purposes. The Maya Wrap has been really great as a ring sling that will hold Mini-Bee tight against me. I like it because the fabric moves easily through the rings when I'm trying to adjust it and because all the extra fabric at the end makes a great nursing coverup/blanket. Mini-Bee #2 really likes having his head up high, and with the Maya Wrap I can cinch him up against my upper chest with his head peeping over my shoulder. He digs it, plus he's not hanging so low that his body bumps against the kitchen counter. A bonus, if you get a striped one, is that you can see exactly which stripe to pull to get baby into the perfect position.
My homemade sling, similar to the New Native Baby style, is really great when Mini-Bee #2 wants to nap. It's not adjustable, though, so getting the right size for your body is important. I used this sling until Mini-Bee #1 was a year old, and he was always very comfortable.
Another sling I use is the BabyBag by Premaxx. I like it moderately well, but it is impossible to adjust while carrying baby, which makes me favor a ring sling more. It also has a narrow shoulder strap that cuts into my shoulder muscles. I got one of those furry wraparound neck protectors you Velcro onto your seatbelt, and it helps. My husband likes this sling because it looks masculine, and I like the additional pockets it has. It doesn't get a lot of use, though, since we got the Maya Wrap.
quote: I'm hoping to learn to nurse with the baby in the sling.
You will have to experiment with all sorts of positions and semi-handholds. I can get Mini-Bee #2 to nurse in both the Maya Wrap and the New Native-style slings in a football hold position (under your arm, head forward, face up) while supporting his head with one hand. You will have your other hand completely free and, in a pinch, can let go with both hands. This is NOT a discreet position unless you're wearing a nursing top that keeps your belly covered and have some extra sling fabric to pull over the front. It is handy when making lunch, though. Mostly I recommend ring slings for nursing because you can quickly and easily loosen the fabric enough to pull baby into position and then cinch it back up a bit once he's latched on. Forget about having your hands completely free until he's old enough to move around quite a bit by himself in there, though. You'll have to support his head and maybe keep his nose free with your fingers, too, or he'll pop off. I guess that also depends on the size of your breasts, too, but mine always threaten to suffocate my children. Yipes! Threatening breasts!
About babywearing and comfort: I've heard a lot of moms says that they tried a sling and their babies didn't like it. With my boys, if I just plopped them in a sling and stood still, they would hate it, too. Once baby is in position and cinched up, START MOVING. Sway, walk, dance, do whatever so it feels more womb-like. Don't try to sit down or stand still until baby is in a very relaxed state or sleeping. He may struggle against the tightness of the fabric for a few moments, but once he's settled, he'll calm and probably either doze right off or go into that quiet alert state that doctors tell us is so good for learning.
Here's a link to making a Rebozo or Mexican shawl sling yourself!
Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
Christy used a Maya Wrap with both our daughters, and they seemed happy with it. There were a few "oh, look, the kid worked free and is on the verge of plopping to the ground" scares as they got older, but not too many. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I always put Bridey in the Maya Wrap while I was doing laundry-- I could carry her in the front and my laundry on my hip, brilliant!) and she would be asleep by the time I had the last stuff in the washer, every time. I never tried to "just stand there", if the sling was on it was to move around and do things or go places. I think if you are just sitting or standing around there is no substitute for holding in arms. Unless, of course, you're doing a long wait in line, in which case it saves your arms. I always swayed in that case.
Once they get older and get used to the sling, they like it better. Bridey likes to hold on to the edge and try to lean back, which freaks me out, but I've gotten pretty good at getting it tight enough that she can't flip out or otherwise hurt herself.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Sounds like there are several recommendations for the Maya Wrap. I've looked around way too much at the various options for wraps and slings online--it's overwhelming. Maya Wrap was one of the very first ones I heard about. Maybe I'll go with that one.
My mother-in-law is going to be making me a couple of baby carriers. One of them will be just a big piece of fabric that you can wrap and tie in many different positions. The other will be more sling-like, which will probably be a maya wrap.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
You don't have to get a Maya Wrap brand-- search "ring sling" on eBay and you'll find lots of home-made ones that are just as good, and cheaper than a new Maya Wrap. You can even buy ring slings made out of Solarveil fabric (if you don't want to buy Solarveil fabric and make your own, which is cheaper but more work.)
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I had some kids over for my son's birthday today and one of the moms came with a Maya sling for her 6-week-old. She raved about it, too!
quote:Originally posted by DeathofBees: I guess that also depends on the size of your breasts, too, but mine always threaten to suffocate my children. Yipes! Threatening breasts!
LOL...I had the same problems with my son. When he was very young, I often had to hold them away from his nose. Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I love my Maya Wrap. We didn't get as much use out of it when he was a tiny baby, although sometimes Bob would take him into the office (he works from home) and the babe would sleep in the wrap while Bob worked. Once he was old enough for the over-the-hip carry I used it a lot.
I found it to work really well while sitting, too. He was less squirmy that way than just sitting on my lap.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I've used my Maya wrap for all kinds of things-- a leash when Bridget kept running away at church while we were visiting a different ward (just stuck it around her middle, under her arms, and pulled it tight, then held the end); a makeshift "basket" pouch to carry water bottles and sunscreen and hats and such on the back of my umbrella stroller(s) (when using either one or two with the connectors); one time Boon and I even used hers as a screen when her daughter had to pee behind a tree when there were no restrooms around... I think that's one of the ring sling's main advantages, besides being so easy to carry around (folds small enough to go in a pocket or purse quite easily) and having so many positions you can use it in, it's a great multi-tasker.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
quote:Originally posted by Christine: I had some kids over for my son's birthday today and one of the moms came with a Maya sling for her 6-week-old. She raved about it, too!
quote:Originally posted by DeathofBees: I guess that also depends on the size of your breasts, too, but mine always threaten to suffocate my children. Yipes! Threatening breasts!
LOL...I had the same problems with my son. When he was very young, I often had to hold them away from his nose.
The morning after I had Bin, the breastfeeding consultant came in to help me and told me to stop holding my breasts away from her nose. Babies don't ever suffucate while breastfeeding, she claimed. So, I let them free and a minute later she was turning blue. Absolutely terrifying. The next time a nurse told me to stop holding them away from her, I was like, uhoh! I'm not falling for that again. Of course, now that she is ten months, there isn't much fear of suffucation.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, mine learn to hold their heads way back at about 4 or 5 months. Until then, it is a two-handed job.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Unfortunately, I never learned to nurse without supporting the breast. I didn't have to hold it away form his nose after a few months (maybe 4 or 5...can't remember) but if I didn't support it from underneath with my hand he never could get a proper latch. For all I know, I was doing something wrong, but we did nurse for a good long time (16.5 months) so it couldn't have been that bad.
I heard people suggest that you couldn't suffocate a baby with a breast, too. None of them had big breasts. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I never have to support mine-- that makes them MORE suffocate-y-- but then, my nipples are differently placed and breasts differently shaped than most women I know.
I am trying to get up the nerve to eat something before my heartburn kicks back in (all I've had today is a cup of herbal tea and half a bagel with cream cheese) but I just have absolutely no appetite.
No wonder I'm still at my pre-pregnancy weight (I'm now more than 16 weeks along.)
Hopefully Thanksgiving will remedy that...
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Nevermind. Heartburn is now back.
Does anyone know of any OTC meds for heartburn that are safe in the second trimester?
'Cause I am not going to eat lunch now, and will probably choke down a very, very small amount of food at dinner, and that will be it until tomorrow.
No wonder I'm not gaining well.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Just searched and Zantac is a class B. I'm taking some.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
My tried and true is a little baking soda in water (about 1/2 teaspoon in a cup, and I drink a few long swallows). I don't know of specifics for pregnancy safety, but I haven't heard of any counterindications. It is sodium bicarbonate, and when it combines with stomach acid (HCl), it forms carbon dioxide (you burp) and table-salt (NaCl) water.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
My last OB said to use Mylanta. I have a new OB and haven't asked him but am still going with the old recommendation because I like the cheery flavor. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I tried baking soda, it makes my stomach churn. And Mylanta makes me throw up. Posted by MidnightBlue (Member # 6146) on :
Would Tums be ok? It's just Calcium.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Tums has no effect either way.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(I'm not worried about taking the Zantac, btw, now that I know it is class B. I talked to my doctor about whether I should be avoiding OTC drugs, and while he said it is of course important to be healthy and be careful about what I put in my body, he trusts my judgement and is okay with me taking any class B OTC medication without checking with him if I feel I need it. He does want me to check before I take any OTC drug or herbal supplement that I can't find out what class it is or it says "not recommended for pregnant women" in the medical literature or anything like that. But he trusts my judgement, which I think is the way it should be. And I feel fine about Zantac-- and in fact took it before I knew I was pregnant with Bridey and she was fine. So I'm taking it.)
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Well, I had a fun appointment today. Baby is perfectly fine, vertex, ROA, good HB, etc. My numbers are perfect, no sugars, ketones, or protein, and my BP is right where it should be (taken with the correct cuff, thankyouverymuch). Talked to the doctor about the GTT that he wants at my next appointment.
My previous doctor made me take it after an overnight fast. Is it really any wonder that a sugar rush on an empty stomach would make me feel like crap?
This one says I can eat a normal breakfast, chicken and broccoli for lunch, and come in immediately afterward to take the test. I feel MUCH better about that, so I've agreed to take the one hour.
We also discussed what would happen if I fail it. He first said I'd have to take the 3 hour GCT. That one is a fasting test, no way around it. He said I probably wouldn't fail the first one this time, since I'd have some protein and fiber to help counter the sugar, but if I do, we can skip the GCT and go straight to management.
I'm okay with this. If he'd insisted that the GTT be a fasting test, I would have completely refused it and told him to send me for management or leave me alone about it, but I think we've reached a good compromise.
Oh, yeah...and, even after a lengthy discussion he had with his nurse while we were in the exam room about the August ultrasound and when my due date was moved and which way, he still says my due date is February 27th. :giggle:
This was my 25 5/7 (but really 29 3/7) week appointment. Fundal height: 29cm, even with all my "fluff." Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
Congrats on the good doctor's appt!
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
The other night I was lying in bed watching TV with my husband, and suddenly my heart started racing. I could feel it in my chest. I'm not convinced that it was completely regular at first, either.
And often in the mornings I'm downstairs doing my thing getting ready for work and about 5 minutes before I get picked up, I'll go upstairs to brush my teeth and grab anything else that I need. The trip up the stairs so takes it out of me that I feel like I need to sit down and it's torture to make myself stand there and finish brushing. This morning, I gave in and sat down for a couple of minutes until I couldn't hear my heart in my head anymore.
I think the morning thing is because I'm going too fast up the stairs for my big body to easily be able to adjust. A slow buildup to exercise doesn't do that to me.
But I still can't explain why my heart was racing while I was laying down. It was weird.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I remember that happening late in pregnancy. I think it's because your organs are so squished that you're having trouble getting oxygen or something. *shrug*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I have heart racing episodes like that (palpitations, I think, someone correct me if I'm wrong) all the time while pregnant. They don't usually mean anything but your blood volume is higher while pregnant so you're more prone to weird stuff like that, if that makes sense.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Good to know it's probably nothing to worry about. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh-- I forgot to add that the Zantac is working on the heartburn! Woo-hoo!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by ludosti: Since it's been 2 weeks since I took the 1 hour glucose test and they haven't called me in to do the 3 hour one, I'm assuming I'm not diabetic!! I'm really happy because I had been really worried about it (I have a lot of the risk factors and I know that getting gestational diabetes would pretty much guarantee getting adult onset diabetes later in life), so this is a great load off my mind!
Please be aware that not having gestational diabetes is no guarantee of not ending up with type II diabetes later. I have lots of risk factors, and have passed 5 glucose tolerance tests (4 while pregnant, and one last month – you know, the glucola’s not quite as nasty when you’re not already slightly nauseous). But I am well aware that the odds of my ending up with type II diabetes are very high.
quote:Originally posted by Liz B: I have to go in for the 3-hour gestational diabetes screening. I am SO sad. Probably more than it warrants. It's one of those things that is enough lifestyle-related that I feel guilty about not having enough insulin, for crying out loud.
Gestational diabetes, like type II diabetes, is not caused by insufficient insulin. It is caused by insulin resistance – cells not reacting properly to the insulin in the bloodstream, and failing to take in the sugar.
quote:Originally posted by divaesefani: Around here, they send you home the appointment before the (1 hour) glucose test with the drink and instructions. Drink it an hour before you show up, and they draw your blood as soon as you get there.
That’s what my OB did too.
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: For instance, a study showing that substituting 18 jelly beans was just as effective for the one hour GTT as that strange hyper-sugar drink, and was tolerated without side effects by all women in the study, as opposed to the drink, which did produce side effects!
They're special jelly beans, made with glucose instead of sucrose, though.
But yeah, I saw that study a few years back, and have been praying the standard would change. Alas, it has not.
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: If you really want to remain mobile but do want something to cut the pain, I recommend IV drugs.
Some hospitals won’t let you out of bed on those, either. Ask beforehand.
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: Anyone else have rhinitis of pregnancy? (That means, stuffy nose from being pregnant.)
I did, every time. In addition to being one of those lucky people whose allergies get considerably worse while pregnant. (In my third trimester of one pregnancy, we tried several class C drugs, because we had already tried all the then-available class B’s.)
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: Like I said, neither my kids nor I liked the Snugli. It overheated the baby (and me) very quickly, hurt my back, and they didn't like the way their legs were forced apart.
I, OTOH, loved my Snugli and hated all the slings I tried. *shrug* YMMV, etc.
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
Home from the hospital. Katarina Alzbeta was born (after an ENTIRELY too long induction process) Saturday, November 24, at 14:35. We are both fine and healthy (though she can't be nearly as sore as me) and came home from the hospital yesterday. Woo, freedom! Goodbye for now, pregnancy thread!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
CONGRATS!!! Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Hooray! I'm glad you're both doing well. I really like her name.
How early is too early to feel the baby move? I've had two moments recently where I was pretty sure that's what was happening, but I'm less than 14 weeks along.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
Brinestone- is this first baby or second? I hear second babies move a lot earlier then first. Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
quote:Originally posted by rivka: Please be aware that not having gestational diabetes is no guarantee of not ending up with type II diabetes later. I have lots of risk factors, and have passed 5 glucose tolerance tests (4 while pregnant, and one last month – you know, the glucola’s not quite as nasty when you’re not already slightly nauseous). But I am well aware that the odds of my ending up with type II diabetes are very high.
Oh certainly! I know that I am still at high risk for type II diabetes as I continue to age and that there are things I can be doing now to lessen that risk. I am just happy to have dodged that bullet (so to speak) for now.
quote:Originally posted by Lissande: Home from the hospital. Katarina Alzbeta was born (after an ENTIRELY too long induction process) Saturday, November 24, at 14:35. We are both fine and healthy (though she can't be nearly as sore as me) and came home from the hospital yesterday. Woo, freedom! Goodbye for now, pregnancy thread!
Yay!!!! That is so exciting!! I'm so glad you're both healthy and home!!
I'm trying to finish getting things ready for our little girl. My last day of work was last week, so I'm adjusting to being home. I'm on day 2 without my anti-nausea meds and while I don't feel great, I haven't thrown up either, so that's a step in the right direction. I seem to have plateaued at my pre-pregnancy weight, which makes me laugh. My placenta has moved up to a good place and she's been head down for a few weeks. Now just to wait for her to drop so I can breathe again!
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Second. Thing is, it doesn't feel like the "flutter" you're supposed to feel. It feels like a definite "push," whether by head or foot, and it feels slow and deliberate. Completely unlike gas or a cramp or anything else. I'm wondering if maybe the baby's sticking its head out.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
My baby's movements have felt differently for about a week now. They're slightly less pronounced and seem to be in different areas. Last night, I could feel a flutter (quick movements) on my right side while I was laying on my left side. My husband could even feel it. It felt almost like a heartbeat. It was strange.
I was wondering if she moved position in there, and that's why it feels different. It does bother me some, because I don't know if something is wrong or not. I don't like that the movements seem to be softer. Several times, they've been quick flutters, too, rather than more pronounced single kicks, which is the way they were since the first time I felt them at 20 weeks. These new quicker movements almost make me think of a mild seizure. These are not good thoughts.
Is this normal? I'm almost 27 weeks.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I called my doctor. I've pretty much realized that if something starts to bother me enough to post and ask about it, I should probably go ahead and call my doctor, too!
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
I remember reading about baby shuddering being normal. I can't remember right now what it was, but I think it was on the ok list.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Hopefully your doctor's office will get back to you quickly and things are ok.
I know as things have progressed, my baby's movements have definitely changed. As she's gotten bigger, there's less room for her to do a standard kick or punch, so she does a lot more wiggling/rolling and pushing. Sometimes her wiggling is very vigorous and fast. I know babies can sometimes get the hiccups, and I've felt what seems like her with hiccups a couple of times (she'll move very rhythmically every few seconds for several minutes).
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Brinestone: I'm on my second, too. With my first, I was almost 20 weeks before I felt the movement. This time I'm 14 weeks and am definitely feeling movement from time to time. I first thought I was feeing movement at 10 weeks!
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
My baby used to get the hiccups all the time (atleast once a day). When bin was born, she started hiccuping and it was a weird feeling of familiarity.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
It's interesting because I know I did not feel movement before 20 weeks. I was very consciously paying attention to my belly for any feeling that might be movement since week 16, and there simply wasn't any. The first time I felt it, I knew without a doubt what it was, and I knew that I hadn't felt it before.
That tells me that you're not just missing something when you don't feel something earlier with your first pregnancy. I wonder what it is about second and on pregnancies that make you feel the baby earlier.
I suppose it is possible that before 20 weeks, the movement was just so very slight that I would miss it.
Anyway... the nurse called me back. The doc said that it's normal for the feelings to change, but I should be feeling the baby 3-4 times a day. And if I don't feel her for a few hours, I should get something cold to drink, lay on my side, etc., and that should help.
I think I'm probably feeling her more like 2-3 times a day, but I'll pay closer attention now. I have an appointment next week, anyway, so I didn't make one sooner.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Congrats, Lissande!
I felt Emma move at 13 weeks. I felt Bridey at 15. This one, I felt at 11 weeks.
I just have really active babies. And also a tilted uterus, which a few midwives have told me might be the reason I feel movement earlier.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Congratulations Lissande!!! Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I was always puzzled by the 3-4 times a day estimate. I mean, once I started feeling Lego move, I never stopped. Sometimes he'd be still for an hour or so to sleep, but when he was awake, he was constantly moving. It got annoying, actually.
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Congrats on the new baby, Lissande!
I'm at 31 weeks now, and my little guy has started to get pretty cramped in there. He kept rolling over yesterday which was both extremely weird to see and feel. My husband thinks it's so creepy that he can actually see my belly move. It's funny. Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Congratulations Lissande! And Katarina! And . . .um, whatever your husband's name is which I think I should know but can't remember!!
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
Stop it! Ya'll are making me miss feeling a baby move in my tummy.
Seriously, I think I felt the first two between 16 and 18 weeks. I didn't feel #3 until just after 20 weeks. Freaked me out, it did.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:Originally posted by Brinestone: I was always puzzled by the 3-4 times a day estimate. I mean, once I started feeling Lego move, I never stopped. Sometimes he'd be still for an hour or so to sleep, but when he was awake, he was constantly moving. It got annoying, actually.
That constant feeling it usually seems to start around 18-20 weeks for me, but you're right-- once they're big enough to feel really well, I feel the movements constantly except during "rest" periods. My doctor has just told me to be aware of what is normal FOR ME AND MY BABY and if I feel a decrease that worries me, call. Which I think is much more reasonable. (Before 18-20 weeks I feel movement more at night when I lay down or when I've just eaten something sugary or spicy, things like that; the baby is small enough I only feel it during really active periods or when it's positioned a certain way in my uterus, I guess.)
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
3-4 times a day? Everything I read said that when you do a "kick count" it should take less than 2 hours to feel 10 movements.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I think maybe the 3-4 times a day means "groups or periods of movement 3-4 times a day, with times when you may feel little or nothing in between."
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
With my second and third, I started feeling movement at 11-12 weeks. (We actually confirmed that I really was while doing an ultrasound.)
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
mama squirrel- one of my friends didn't feel third baby until after 20 weeks. The doctor blamed the constant commotion of the two kids outside the womb.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Congratulations to Lissande! I'm looking forward to that being me...but not quite yet.
It's been a big 2 weeks for me.
Monday 11/18: I find out I passed the 3-hour glucose. Yay me!
Sunday 11/25: I'm visiting my in-laws, about ready to leave, and my bp is up. Too high. Not good. I don't want to end up in a hospital 10 hours away from home...I lie down, rest, & take it again...it's OK, back down where it has been. We drive home. When I take it again at home, it's up again. I consider calling the emergency line, but lying down once again takes care of the problem.
Monday 11/26: It's up again this morning, and lying down isn't helping much. I wonder if perhaps my monitor is acting up. I know it tends to run a little high compared to readings at the doctor's office. My team is supposed to take the kids on a field trip today. I decide to get the school nurse to take it. When she does, it's WAYYYyy up. Scary up, a LOT higher than it was at home. I call the doctor & go in right away (miss the field trip, obviously). It's not nearly as high there (out of scary range), but still higher than it ever has been on an office visit. He gives me a prescription for BP meds and tells me Friday is my last day of work. This is very frustrating and stressful. (I had been planning to at least finish December, and try to go back for the first week or 2 in January. Baby is due 1/17). I head back to work, tell my principal, call personnel, work on long-term plans.
Tuesday, 11/27: I go in for a scheduled sonogram. Everything is super fine hunky dory with baby, but the sonogram doctor is very distressed by what I told him about my bp, takes it--it's up again in semi-scary land, thanks to his not-calm mannerisms, in my opinion--and sends me to the hospital for lab work and to talk to my regular OB/GYN. I am not best pleased with the sonogram doctor at this point. I get there, they admit me, strap on a fetal monitor, put me on an every 10-min BP monitor, take lots of blood, and start me on a 24-hour urine collection. My bp starts off high (shocker...I'm a teensy bit agitated about being in the hospital), but goes down to normal levels as I'm lying there. They take off the fetal monitor pretty quickly (maybe after an hour), because it is once again clear that baby is completely fine and happy.
I wait a LONG time for the doctor to find out if I can be discharged or not. I got there at 3:45 and finally got discharged at 11:25. My doctor seems to understand pretty clearly that my BP goes up in response to stress. He's not loving the high numbers, but he's not really worried, either. I have no other signs of preeclampsia...my labs have come back great. he said the baby may still go to term, or not...depends on how I do. In the meantime, they're monitoring me like crazy, I'm monitoring myself, and he went ahead and gave me steroid shots to develop the baby's lungs in case we have to deliver soon. The baby was 4 lbs. 4 oz. at my last sonogram almost 3 weeks ago, and I'm 33 weeks right now. So a delivery now would be less than ideal, but not terrible, either. I'm getting the impression that the doctor is hoping I'll go to 36 or 37 weeks.
Update for me: I'm now done with work as of now, and I'm on "light bed rest." (Yay for laptops! Although typing on my side is awfully slow. Still, what else do I have to do besides type a long and laborious update for Hatrack?) I was allowed to go in Wednesday AM for an hour to get things organized, and what a relief that was. It actually saved me a ton of stress.
So here I am now, at home, and hopefully for a long, long time before baby is born. I had a doctor's appt. today to check protein and bp, and both looked great. So I'm hoping that the meds and the rest at home will do the trick. As I've mentioned here before, when I was on the pill, the estrogen made my bp go up, so I'm hoping hoping hoping that that is all that's going on here...that my body's sensitivity to that hormone is sending my bp up, and that I won't ever develop any of the other symptoms of preeclampsia.
Oh, and they have me doing kick counts, which really is a joke for my baby. He has occasional quiet times, but other than that, he's constantly moving. I count four times a day, looking for 4 movements in 20 minutes. I'm usually done with 4 within 2 minutes. He's keeping me reassured that everything is OK. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, sucky as bed rest is, hopefully it will keep BP down and baby in! Good luck!
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Liz, good luck. Please stay in contact with your sub. My mom agreed to do a longterm sub job in the fall of 03 for January-March 04. The teacher went into labor in late October and the baby was born at the first of November. My mom had absolutely no sub plans at all, no sylabus. And the teacher was too worried (rightfully) about herself and baby to give any ideas. So if it's possible now while you're ok and in bed with internet, do it.
(sorry to be self centered, that was a very rough school year)
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Liz - I'm sorry your bp has been up in scary land and you have to go on light bedrest. I'm so glad you and the baby are doing well otherwise! Hopefully he'll stay in there a bit longer!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Are you allowed to be sitting up? If so, I find that one of those lounge pillows with the arms, with a pillow near the bottom to support my lower back, and one near the top for neck support, is very comfy for lounging in bed. And allows for better laptop use. Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I had my GD test, and I passed. Yay! The finger prick hurt a lot, probably because she pricked me on the side of my fingertip. I don't think the top would have hurt. Oh well. It's over now.
Everything else is good. The baby's heartrate is good, my blood sugar is good, my blood pressure is good, I'm not anemic, and I don't feel nearly as congested as I did.
So, me and baby are good.
And now I have to start going every 2 weeks. That's a bummer. I really need my own car.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Just wait till you have to go every week!
I'm trying to convince my little ninja that she wants to drop this week. I'm getting pretty uncomfortable and could use the breathing room. I'm still hoping we're on target for the 18th (though that'll depend on when she drops and when my cervix starts ripening - it's still Fort Knox). This week my goals are to get the carseat installed (and inspected) and get all the clothes washed and sorted. Oh yeah - and pack the bag for the hospital (I have a list of things to pack already, I just haven't packed them yet). I was all productive and dropped off my pre-registration at the hospital today (so that's one less thing to worry about).
[ December 03, 2007, 06:47 PM: Message edited by: ludosti ]
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
It has been a week of bizzare cravings. Even moreso today.
*GAG ALERT GAG ALERT GAG ALERT*
*
Earlier I had canned peaches and black olives (like, together. In the same bite.)
I just made myself a little snack of peanut butter with Reeses Pieces cookies, hot from the oven, spread with low-fat cream cheese, sweet pickle relish on top, and stuck together like a little sandwich.
And it's goooood.
I'm eating it here in the living room so KPC doesn't have to see me.
*
*END GAG ALERT*
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I don't have real cravings. I have "suggestion cravings." I read someone on a forum talking about Chinese food, and suddenly I wanted Chinese food. (Didn't have any--yet.) I saw an empty box of chocolates at home and suddenly I really really wanted chocolates. I settled for Heavenly Hash ice cream. It was really good.
I feel like a freak of nature. I want cravings, too, ya know? I'm missing out on this stereotypical pregnancy thing. Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
I never had any cravings either, and I was totally disappointed. I feel like I missed out on so many opportunities to make my husband prove his love for me by getting me strawberries and pickles at 3 am. Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Thanks for the positive thoughts, everyone. I have now been officially diagnosed with preeclampsia--a test I did on Monday was just over the threshold for diagnosis. So right now it's still mild, and I'm still at home, as opposed to being in the hospital. Other good things: I'm 33wks 6 days, the baby is 5 lbs 1 oz as of yesterday, and I've already had betamethazone shots in case my condition worsens & I have to have the baby NOW. Yesterday's biophysical profile for the baby looked great.
But...I'm so not ready to have this baby yet! Naturally I'm worried that he'll have to spend time in the NICU, although I'm trying to stay positive and think of all the details that show his stay there might be short.
I'm also just NOT READY. Like we don't have a car seat, the bassinet is still in the box, I haven't packed my bags, I don't have nursing bras, none of the baby clothes have been washed...yargh. And it's hard to coordinate finishing these last details from the couch!
OK, enough anxiety.
My big craving was in the 1st trimester, for tomato sauce, which gave my husband a chance to prove his love by eating spaghetti most nights of the week . I still enjoy it, but the craving subsided right at around 13 weeks. Now I just enjoy food. Mmmmmmm fooooood. (Although I've actually lost about 5 lbs since I've been on bed rest. I'm sure some of that is loss of muscle, but I've also been drinking a LOT of water, and being very conscientious about stopping eating when I'm not hungry.)
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Crab Rangoon....I can't eat enough of it. I've had Chinese food 4 times in the last week. I'm driving my husband nuts!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Liz - I'm so glad you're still at home, but I'm really sorry you have to deal with preeclampsia. I hope you will have enough time to get everything done without feeling too rushed! That's so wonderful that that the baby seems to be doing well!!
I haven't really had any cravings. If anything sometimes particular things will just sound really good (but it's not like I need to eat it). I think I probably have eaten more hamburgers in the last 3 months than I have in the last 3 years. I tease my husband that he's gotten off easy.
I haven't had the crazy hormonal mood swings either. I can count on one hand the number of times I've acted like the stereotypical pregnant lady. I've actually been really thrilled with the lack of mood swings. I had been really concerned about how I would do during this pregnancy without the antidepressants I had been on, but I have been really pleased with how even my temperament has been. It's been a great blessing, I think.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I have "suggestion" cravings all the time, pregnant or not. My friends say that I am the type of person subliminal advertising was designed for. (And it doesn't even have to be all that subliminal.) Right now I want peanut butter cookies with cream cheese and pickle relish, crab rangoon, cheeseburgers, and spaghetti.
Sorry to hear about the pre-eclampsia, Liz. I kept talking about needing to pack the hospital bags, but didn't do it until I was actually in labor. And my parents brought the car seat to the hospital after John was born and Dad & Bob installed it in the parking lot. And as long as you get one load of baby clothes washed with your "coming home" outfit and a few onsies and sleepers you'll be fine.
Of course, I might just be weird -- I never did get to the "nesting" phase I kept hearing about.
Added -- I bought my nursing bras after the birth too. No wait, maybe I already had one. I didn't like it, though, and went out and bought a different kind afterward.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm sorry to hear about the pre-eclampsia, Liz! My sister-in-law had it (diagnosed at 33 weeks) with her first and made it to 37.5 weeks before they induced (didn't work, she had a c-section, but it was okay.) And the baby was about 10 lbs. And spent no time in the NICU. So you may get to go all the way to term, you never know.
I've had "normal" cravings my previous pregnancies-- you know, things I already like but we didn't (or did) have and I just HAD to eat. Had those this time, too. But just the past week or so the really, really weird ones have started. Jeff is hoping this means it's a boy because I never had this with the girls.
quote:Right now I want peanut butter cookies with cream cheese and pickle relish, crab rangoon, cheeseburgers, and spaghetti.
ROFL!
I bought my nursing bras each time toward the end of each pregnancy-- instead of buying regular bras when I got too big I just bought nursing ones (usually with a little extra room, or bought one extra-big for the engorgement period) and was able to use them afterward.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Liz, I'm so sorry you're going through all this! I wish I had some words of wisdom, but all I can say is feel free to come here and talk about it any time.
###
So this weekend I have to buy maternity clothes -- no big deal except for the first time I have to look NICE in maternity clothes. I usually just go for oversized sweatshirts and figure I'll get my body back eventually.
But I've got my first book signing scheduled right before Christmas and I need to look nice -- professional, even. So allow me to spend a moment venting about clothings...
First, the pants. Pants don't fit me anyway. This isn't new. I have big thighs. I'm not ashamed of them, but clothing manufacturers seem to think I should be. Worse, I don't get a cute pregnancy belly. I just kind of get a lot of fat in the middle where there didn't used to be any. My cute hourglass waist goes away (Hey, I got some good parts, too!) but I don't need the HUGE allowance they give for people whoa re expecting triplets or something. (All right, maybe not.)
Then, there's the shirts. Really, they're cute. They kind of cinch beneath the breasts and then cover everything below no matter how big it is. Two problems -- first, no one seems to think you can have a DD cup size and a 34 strap size. That is to say, the bigger sizes account for more fat, not more boob. They just don't fit. Besides, the necklines tend to plunge a little too far for the bras I'm comfortable wearing. (Ok I admit it, I'm still in nursing bras! But I only quit nursing six months ago and now they're changing size and...excuse excuse excuse...)
I'm done venting now. Back to your regularly scheduled discussions. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I wear camis under all my nice (as in, non extra big t-shirt) maternity tops. It helps.
I like Target's better than the pricey ones I bought at J.C. Penney (which have a bra thing under them; the Target ones don't.)
And I mostly wear skirts when I can't wear sweats and such.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
JC Penny online has some nice oxford-type shirts that work well for "business casual" and don't have the gathers or piping under the bust. Or at least they did 2 years ago. That's where I found most of my professional looking maternity clothes.
I found a few other websites that had really nice business dressy clothes, but they were very pricy.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*nods* JCP has some stuff that can work quite well for business. And sometimes it even goes on sale.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(Oh, also: I haven't worn a non-nursing bra for more than a couple of weeks in, oh, about 3.5 years. I just keep buying bigger ones.)
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Good luck shopping for maternity clothes!! I can't imagine how difficult it would be to find nice business appropriate maternity clothes. I lucked out and worked in a casual environment, so it was a little bit easier. Pants really are the worst thing to try to find. Perhaps you can go with skirts instead (I think they're easier to find and wear - especially as you get to the end of your pregnancy). I had the opposite problem with tops - I really haven't gotten any bigger at all (I'm still wearing the same size bra I started in). I got quite a few things from Motherhood (including all my "nice" pieces) and JCP has some nice things (though they didn't have anything that fit me). I also bought some things off eBay (and kq was nice enough to send me some things she found in my size). I really hope you can find some good things that will work for you!
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I'll check out JC Penny's online. In the store (at least here) they have about 3 racks of clothes so I don't really bother.
I didn't think of Target. I go there all the time...I'll have to check it out.
A skirt occurred to me, but when it's cold and windy they get drafty and uncomfortable. When Spring comes around (assuming I still need some clothes for appearances) I'll probably go to skirts.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Target and JCP both have bigger sizes available online than in store, if that's an issue for you.
And as for skirts being drafty, I just wear leggings underneath. Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
*perks up* Book signing? What's going on with that, Christine? Sorry if I've missed posts about it elsewhere...
I haven't had much trouble with maternity pants...I LOVE them. I love the big stretchy waists. I never want to go back to regular pants. But I absolutely sympathize about the tops. For all the yak yak about how women's boobs get bigger in pregnancy, I sure had a hard time finding clothes that fit my chest and weren't enormous in the shoulders, sleeves, & belly. What I found that work best for me (at least so far) are misses size XL knit shirts with 3/4 length sleeves. They're still a little roomy in the shoulders, but they stretch over my chest & belly without the sleeves covering my hands. I also like jumpers, which are kind of hard to find, at least around here. My mother in law made me some, but they're still too big. And kind of weird to wear around the house, while being impractical for doctor's visits. (I'm glad I thought that one through before wearing a jumper for a sonogram!)
Thanks again, everyone, for the kind words. And thank you especially ketchupqueen and dkw: those are exactly the kinds of stories I need to hear...about women who went close to term, and women who didn't have everything perfectly ready 3 weeks before going into labor!
I just hired someone to come clean my house this weekend. That makes me feel a LOT better. And I've been doing some online shopping, and my mom is coming at the beginning of next week to do some baby laundry/ nursery prep. I really don't like having to rely on my mom to help me, but she's doing it with the right attitude, at least so far...not too much "I told you you should have been ready before this!" Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote: (I'm glad I thought that one through before wearing a jumper for a sonogram!)
I wore one to my last. It was perfect, since they make me undress from the waist down for sonograms... Just pull it off and keep the top on, then no hopping around the doctor's office pulling my pants back on!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, and YAY for someone cleaning your house! I think I might do that when it comes close to time. Jeff will be working 80 hrs./wk. and I will not be up to it, I'm sure...
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
They made you undress?!? I just had to fold my (elastic waist) pants down to the level of my hips.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by Liz B: *perks up* Book signing? What's going on with that, Christine? Sorry if I've missed posts about it elsewhere...
I haven't put up a big announcement about my book yet because it's only available through my publisher right now...the distributors don't have it. (Such as amazon, B&N.com, etc.) I have my first signing scheduled at a Hastings in my husband's hometown in Russellville, AR thanks to an "in" with the manager. (I think I need to hire my sister-in-law as a publicist...she's done great!) I'm also working on getting one at a Borders in St. Louis. (fingers crossed)
Anyway, the book should be completely available in a week or so (knock on wood) and then I'll have a big announcement. In the meantime, you can check out my website:
quote:Originally posted by dkw: They made you undress?!? I just had to fold my (elastic waist) pants down to the level of my hips.
I've had to undress from the waist down for every u/s I've ever had, at every stage of pregnancy. *shrugs*
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Huh. I don't really see the purpose of that, unless you were having a transvaginal ultrasound. But now I am curious as to which way is more common. Anyone else want to chime in?
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
The three I had done involved rolling down my waistband to my pubic bone...
Posted by theCrowsWife (Member # 8302) on :
I only had to roll my waistband down as well (two ultrasounds, done at the same place).
--Mel
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
dkw, the reason I was cited each time was in case they needed to check anything with the transvaginal or do a cervix check as a result of something in the U/S. (I have mine done at my doctor's office, by my doctor.)
Oh, I take that back though-- I was in a hospital gown for a couple, after they'd checked me for other things, and I only had to pull the waistband down when I went to the high-res u/s specialist.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
Mine were all tranvaginal and then over the tummy. For bras, just before the baby I was 36E, I currently wear 36H (which is a pain to fine). So, I wouldn't worry too much about getting the nursing bra, cause you never know how much bigger you'll get (and if I don't shrink, I am so getting reductive surgery someday). Most of my maternity clothes, I borrowed from friends. I also can wear scrubs to work, so that makes life easier.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Well I've got a week to go until my due date... I know it's silly, but I am really excited that yesterday my doctor said I'm about 1 cm dilated. I know it's not much and I know that I may stall out and stay there for a long time (and she's still up pretty high), but at least something noticeable has happened. I'm pretty sure now that the "crampy feelings" that I've been getting the last couple weeks are Braxton-Hicks, since they've been getting more frequent over the last few days (I like having a better idea of what's going on). We've almost got everything ready. Now for her just to get here!
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
So, just to be a killjoy, I was 1cm, 50% effaced at 36 weeks. At 37 weeks, I was 2 cm, at 38 weeks I was 2.5, at 39 weeks 3 at 40 weeks, we induced. I was having contractions the entire time and I was pretty low. On the plus, the induction was really easy because I was so ready.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
On the other side, I went from 2cm-10cm in three hours. After a few days of pms-like crampy feelings.
Good luck ludosti!
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I was also in the slow camp. I was 1 cm 50% effaced from about 36 or 37 weeks (hard to remember now). I remember being really excited but then NOTHING changed for weeks and weeks and the cramps continued to come...clearly Braxton Hicks at first but then getting regular. I had moderate contractions every 20 minutes for 2 weeks. It was so obnoxious.
When I went into real, active labor it was over in about 10 hours, hours, though.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
And I was 3 cm after 2 weeks of contractions when they finally induced me with Emma. :/
Posted by PSI Teleport (Member # 5545) on :
I was dilated a centimeter or so for 10 weeks (and I was ordered not to move around much) before I dilated the other nine, and that only took about 4 hours.
Our bodies are so weird.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yeah, I'm trying to temper my excitement with the knowledge that some women progress incredibly slow. It's just so hard not to get too excited. Oh well, I know that if nothing else, she should be here by the end of next week. Because of Christmas (which would be exactly 41 weeks for me), my doctor said he would probably opt to induce me the end of next week if I haven't gone into labor already. At least I'm still feeling pretty good - I'm really tired, from not sleeping well, and I'm STILL having to take my Zofran (I threw up just last week when I tried to go 2 days without it), but other than I feel good. Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
The really good thing though is that if you do induce, your cervix is probably ripe. Trying to induce without a ripe cervix can be hell according to my friends.
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Ooh, what an exciting time, ludosti!
I like hearing everyone's updates very much, so I figured I should give one, too.
I'm doing well and things have been quite uneventful (which is a good thing ). I'm just about 33 weeks now, and the baby loves to move around, making my belly contort into strange shapes. At my last appointment (on Friday), I had the doctor feel around and tell me which body part he really likes to stick out...and it's his bum. Yep. It sure is funny, though.
I have no major complaints, but I do get rather sore by the end of each day. In one week I'll finish my student teaching, so that's a big milestone!
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
What can I expect at the last few weeks of doctor appointments? I'm now on the every two weeks schedule, and I know the every week schedule is coming. What sorts of checks do they typically do? I'm used to belly checks, where they measure my belly and listen to the heartbeat, but will I have to start getting undressed? Every time?
I'm wondering how much I can insist that I see 2 of the 3 doctors in the practice. I really don't feel comfortable with male doctors, and I don't want him examining me like that. The other two are female, and I feel more comfortable with them anyway. I know that there's a possibility that he may be the one on call when I'm in labor, but until then, I don't see why I can't make my appointments with the other two. So far, I've been able to only see him for belly checks.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Katarain: When you go weekly, they will expect you to undress from the waist down so they can check your cervix. If you're not comfortable with the male doctor, then INSIST upon not being scheduled with him. The last thing you want is an uncomfortable vaginal exam.
I wish I had insisted a bit more one week when my regular OB was called away on an emergency and I got stuck with her horrible nurse practitioner. I already knew I didn't like the woman, but when she checked my cervix she HURT me. I about jumped off the bed. It should not hurt. If I'd had more confidence, I would have insisted on seeing someone else.
Strangely, I always thought I was more comfortable with female OB's but now I have a man. I went through three female OB's in the last 3 years and something didn't click with them. The doctor I have now is just wonderful. Easy to talk to, sympathetic....we just have the right chemistry or something. So I got over my male bias. He's very professional about all exams and has a female nurse in the room at all times during an examination.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Like Christine said, you'll want to make your weekly appointments with the female doctors, since you're uncomfortable with having a male doctor do an internal exam. The weekly checks are pretty quick (mine has continued to do the blood pressure, urine, belly size, and heartbeat checks) but they will also be checking your cervix for progress so you will be undressing from the waist down. It's not really painful (I got one little twinge of pain on one of them), just a little uncomfortable, but very quick.
You may want to consider scheduling one of the weekly appointments (after you're more familiar with it) with the male doctor, since there's the possibility that he will be delivering the baby. But, of course, only do that if you're comfortable with it.
Posted by PSI Teleport (Member # 5545) on :
I wouldn't worry about having the male doctor do the vaginal exams too much. I refused the male doctor each time, but by the time I was in labor, I couldn't have cared less that he was the one on call. I just wanted someone to catch. As it was, while he was suiting up my preferred doctor came in so it worked out in my favor, but yeah. There's every chance that you will not care. By the time you have left the hospital, everyone and their grandmas will have seen your bum anyway. I think there is a special non-embarrassment hormone that kicks in or something. I'm normally the most modest person, but nothing bothered me in the hospital. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I am only comfortable with male doctors. My doc and his office has been very accomodating. He goes so far as to ensure that there is always one male on-call doc in case I wind up in L&D on a weekend, and he has a note in my chart that they are not to call a female doc for me unless I'm dying. They shouldn't have a problem accomodating your preference.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(Oh, and when you're in labor it's likely the nurses will be checking you as much as/more than the doctors, anyway.)
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Heh, PSI reminded me of something my mom once said about labor - by the end she wouldn't have cared if she was naked in Times Square and on national TV. Granted, she had really long, really awful labors, but that sure sounds like the non-embarrassment hormone to me... Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Huh. I am not bothered by cervix checks while in labor or not (except, you know, that they hurt), but I would be very bothered by being naked in front of people, or otherwise having my dignity/modesty disturbed, even in labor. For instance, my gown slipped up and my sheet slipped down and the nurse saw my butt while helping me turn-- she covered me up right away but I was disturbed, if only momentarily (she is a nurse, and a woman, so I got over it.)
I was also MORE bothered by the thought of being seen by a female doctor than before while I was in labor. Discomfort with being seen naked/examined by a certain gender of doctor is not necessarily just an "embarassment" thing. It can be a real discomfort to the point of phobia, like in my case. And that does not just go away, and can intensify during labor, in fact.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
This may sound weird, but I threw modesty out the window even before I went into labor. I knew it wouldn't be pretty and I just didn't care. From the instant I walked into the hospital, I was already in the mindset that the region down south was no longer my own private domain and I'd just reclaim it when all was over.
ketchupqueen: Personal question...don't have to answer...but I was wondering if you're comfortable with female nurses examining you?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yes, I am, because I wasn't abused by female nurses, nurse-midwives or nurse practitioners as a child.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by PSI Teleport: by the time I was in labor, I couldn't have cared less that he was the one on call. I just wanted someone to catch.
Yep. Child #3 was delivered by the resident on duty.
I couldn't pick him out from a lineup. I have no idea what he looked like, except I'm pretty sure he was Caucasian, and I think he may have had dark hair.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Big happenings this week.
So I went in for a biophysical profile ultrasound at the maternal/ fetal specialist at 9:30 last Friday, and the doctor there took my blood pressure and did another urine dip. My bp was up (so was protein), he sent me to the hospital. Fortunately, this time I went home and called my husband before reporting to the hospital as ordered, so he could get someone to cover his classes and come meet me at the there. I got there at around 11, they admitted me, got me changed, and put me on a bp monitor. Apparently, they couldn't get it down with rest this time. My doctor came in at around 11:30 (thank goodness it was my OBGYN, since I really trust him), looked at the numbers, and said, "Well, looks like you'll be having this baby today."
Since I was completely not dilated (not surprising at 33 weeks 4 days--they decided to go with the LMP due date in calculating gestational age, instead of my first sonogram), and with my bp so high, induction was not really an option, and I had an emergency C section, delivering my son (5 lbs...pretty honkin' big for 6+ weeks early) at 4:46 PM on December 7th. I was on a magnesium sulfate IV (I think...everyone just calls it "mag") for 24 hours, which made me feel like crap, but prevents seizures & is standard treatment for delivery when you have preeclampsia. Still, I really think the worst (physical) part of the whole experience was the catheter, which they put in BEFORE the epidural. Auugh.
The baby has been in the NICU for a little over a week, but is coming home TOMORROW. I'm so happy he's coming home, & scared too, of course. Once he figured out how to eat on his own, he decided he REALLY liked it. It felt like every time I called or went in, they'd raised his feeding by another 5-10 ml.
For the next couple of weeks, we'll be working on breastfeeding (I've been pumping for bottles). We tried it yesterday and he got so *mad* when it didn't work right away, poor thing. I tried again later in the afternoon and pumped a little first, which helped. He's not used to having to work to get things started! I think we'll figure it out, though...
Edited to add: And I think I had more symptoms of preeclampsia than I realized. I didn't really *feel* swollen, but apparently I was, since I lost over 20 lbs. in my first postpartum week. And my rings fit again, and my face looks MUCH better. I guess I just thought I was getting fat.
[ December 16, 2007, 12:25 AM: Message edited by: Liz B ]
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
I'm so happy you're home and you and the baby are safe! Hurrah!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Glad everything is ok! Enjoy your beautiful boy. Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Thank you! It was really scary for me (until that mag drip got started, and I just didn't care about much for a while), and then really upsetting when the baby wasn't breathing so well. But the nurses in that hospital are great--able to be both realistic and reassuring--which helped.
The neonatologists...well, I really liked the 2 women...the 2 men, not so much. *shrug*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Glad you're both safe! Sorry the mag sucked! And I hope breastfeeding gets easier.
I cut my hair off today. Not all of it, but close. I've been saying for a while that with the lack of energy I've been having, I just couldn't deal with my hair. Well, after almost fainting in the shower today (I'd been in 45 minutes working on my hair), I told my husband, "Call my mom and find out who does her hair. I'm cutting it off, TODAY."
And I DID! I had the courage to actually go through with it and it looks GREAT! I went to the ward Christmas party with the family and some people didn't recognize me until they saw me with a kid or my husband, and EVERYONE's first comment was, "You cut your hair!" (Usually immediately followed by "It looks GREAT!")
I love it. LOVE IT. It is so EASY and I look good. I feel, well, not stylish because I'm never quite in style, but somehow I feel more grown-up. I'd had my hair long, and done it pretty much the same way, since I was a teenager, and now it's so different. I figured, "Hey, I'm a mom of 2 1/2! (Yes, I hit the halfway point a few days back, w00t!) It's time for a change from my teenage haircut!"
Jeff didn't really want me to cut it quite so short but once he saw it he liked it. Emma was fascinated by the long hanks of hair coming off and Bridey didn't know what to think at first although now she seems to have adjusted. I still get a bit of a shock when I look in the mirror! But I like it! I have to stop and preen a bit each time I pass by one.
(Okay, I know I went on about that a bit, but it's a BIG change. And I feel so much... lighter. And happier. My hair is clean, it's neat, and it will not take more than five minutes to do and have it look perfect. I think I'm gonna keep it this way at least for a couple more years.)
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I can't wait to see the new look. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm gonna post pics on my blog when Jeff finds the camera cable.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Glad to hear both you and baby are ok Liz B. Yay!
KQ, I'm impressed you lasted so long. My sister-in-law had long hair, until about a month after the birth of her first child. Now it is ultra short. Posted by DeathofBees (Member # 3862) on :
Congrats on your new baby, Liz!
Posted by quidscribis (Member # 5124) on :
Congrats, Liz!
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
I guess I am weird- since I have had baby, I have been growing my hair long. I have had short hair most of my life and decided I want to learn to do more hairstyles.
Posted by KetchupPrinceConsort (Member # 8047) on :
Yeah, I was fine with the long hair (well, cut it a little shorter, but not much) through my first pregnancy, it was no problem my second-- but this time, I'm just so tired ALL the time. (Part of that is the medication.) I just haven't had the energy, and I'm shedding more and my hair was more tangly (which did NOT happen with the girls, but this time it started as soon as I got pregnant) and my hair was just in knots. I couldn't take it. It was making me feel even more sick and tired and I didn't want to go out because my hair looked so bad and it was so much work to make it look good.
Now it takes two minutes to make it look good. Yay! I can go out again!
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
KPC, there are ... depths ... to you that we never knew.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, he is in so much trouble.
He KNOWS he is not to post on Hatrack without logging me back in afterwards.
No, it does not matter that this is his laptop.
I said it doesn't! I can't hear you! La la la! *sticks fingers in ears*
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
*giggles*
I did a double take.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
It's almost as funny as when Tom posts as Christy. Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Yay Liz and baby!
Congrats on the new 'do ketchupqueen. I'm considering it -- John has gotten into a hair pulling phase, and somehow even when I put it up in ways I used to like it never seems to look tidy. I didn't start growing it out until after high school, so it's not a case of wanting to grow out of my teenage look, but it has been almost 18 years since I've worn it short. I think it's the idea of having to keep getting it cut that's stopping me.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Thanks so much, everyone!
Nathaniel's bilirubin levels were rising again, so they decided to keep him another day or 2 and put him back under the lights. So he's still not home yet , but it's nothing serious .
KQ, I still have essentially the same haircut/ hairstyle as I had in high school, and I'm quite a bit older than you. Of course, mine is shortish and pretty easy to take care of...which may explain why I've kept it this way for so long...
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Liz - congratulations on your new little guy!! I'm sorry he had to come early, but I'm so excited he'll get to come home soon!!! I hope breastfeeding will get easier and that you and he will continue to get stronger and healthier!!
kq - yay for new hair!! I love having short hair (I haven't had it longer than my shoulders in probably about 15 years) because of how easy it is. I can't wait to see pictures!!
I'm hoping for good news from my doctor today! I'm getting really impatient! I'm fairly certain she has dropped (how far, I'm not sure, but she really feels and looks lower) and I'm hoping that all the Braxton-Hicks I've been having have helped her move down and my cervix to continue to dilate. Hurry up little baby! Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Congratulations, Liz! I'm sorry you have to be there an extra couple of days, but for 6 weeks early, that's still good.
Having this baby still feels like an eternity away. I'm just over 17 weeks, not even to the halfway point, and I'm already so eager to have this baby! I didn't have this feeling until my third trimester with my son and I thought this time the waiting would be easier...now here I am barely in my second trimester and I want to be DONE! Am I nuts?
I bought some clothes for my book signing next weekend. I did end up having to go with a skirt...there just wasn't any choice. I was putting on XL pants (pre-pregnancy I'm a 10-12, btw) and they were still hugging my thighs while the belly area was a TENT. I thought those things were supposed to be stretchy or having draw strings. Well, technically they did have elastic but the smallest position was about three feet from my belly. I probably won't be that big in my ninth month!
So, after trying on every pair of pants in the store, I went with a skirt...large, not XL like the pants I was trying on so that didn't hurt my feelings. Might be a bit drafty but at least they fit. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Liz, he's little enough that they may be keeping him for more than just bili levels. However, if that is all they're keeping him for, you may want to ask about the possibility of having bili lights at home. I had that with my oldest (who is now almost 14), and it was much better than having to take her back to the hospital. (And it ends up being much cheaper than extra days in the hospital too.)
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Christine, my doctor said that is one of the differences with a second pregnancy -- the first time around everything is new and exciting and the second time most moms are just "pregnant, okay, great, get this kid here already."
Posted by DeathofBees (Member # 3862) on :
I've been having hair problems ever since my first pregnancy, too. I used to have really long, really thick, glorious (at least to me) golden locks. After Mini-Bee was born, I lost handfuls of hair, developed yucky flyaways and my hair felt weak. Added to all that, my husband told me the first week of our marriage that he didn't like my "golden locks" strangling him in the night, and would I please tie back my hair in bed. Just recently, after I've been ponytailing and/or braiding it for several years, my husband made a comment about how my hair looks kind of...off. I growled at him that it could be because it gets pulled out of my head and broken by ponytail holders! In short, he agreed that it would be better for my hair if I just tied a handkerchief around my head at night instead of tying it all back. I'm hoping it will get stronger with time, and I'll be able to reduce the flyaways. They tickle my face! I just couldn't bring myself to cut it all off short.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I'm actually finding that I'm more patient this time around. Probably because my days are passing more quickly with a busy toddler than with a computer monitor and a writing job I disliked.
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
Weirdly, I haven't lost gobs of hair - my hair is as freakishly thick as it has always been. It's only been three weeks, though, I guess. Maybe it's still coming.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by dkw: Christine, my doctor said that is one of the differences with a second pregnancy -- the first time around everything is new and exciting and the second time most moms are just "pregnant, okay, great, get this kid here already."
Nice to know I'm not alone!
I think partly, I've been eager ever since I had my son to kind of fill in our family, if that makes any sense. I never intended to have an only child and the house just seems so quiet with the two of us. My son plays easily by himself for long stretches of time and sometimes I wonder if that's not normal and if I've done it to him by not being energetic enough or something. I'm not entirely sure what a second child will do to help, but at least my days will be busier and hopefully a little more lively. Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I don't want to cut my hair at least for a few more years because I have such fond memories of my mother's beautiful long hair when I was very young. I want my daughter to see me like that. That's not my only reason, as I've been growing my hair for several years now already, but it makes me a lot less likely to cut it for some time.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Katarain, that was kind of my thinking too, for a while-- I wanted my kids to see how pretty and fun long hair can be. And part of it was that having long hair was a rebellion against my mom, who had it short all my childhood (she has hair like mine) and always kept mine short until I was in 5th grade and insisted on growing it long.
Now I realize why she had it short when we were little. And since my mom is now growing hers out for the first time in about 45 years, and my sister still has long hair, I figure they will love me anyway.
quote:I'm not entirely sure what a second child will do to help, but at least my days will be busier and hopefully a little more lively.
You want to be careful saying things like that...
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Congratulations, Liz! I'm glad things are going so well considering he came early. When was your due date? It must be pretty close to mine because I'm at 33 weeks 4 days today. Crazy! I'm no where near ready for this baby to be here!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
While I've made a little progress, it's not a lot. It's hard not to be disappointed. She has indeed dropped down a little (a week ago she was still floating, today she's between -3 and -2) and I've dilated a little bit more (I'm about 1.5 cm), but it wasn't as much progress as I'd hoped for. Oh well, they're setting up an appointment for me at the hospital on Friday to start Cervidil if things haven't gotten started on their own. He's guessing she's about 8 lbs (give or take half a pound) and he doesn't want me to have to go too much longer (I don't want to have to too much longer either). So, I should have our little girl by this weekend either way. Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen:
quote:I'm not entirely sure what a second child will do to help, but at least my days will be busier and hopefully a little more lively.
You want to be careful saying things like that...
Yeah, you're right...I need to be careful what I wish for! >Furiously knocking on wood<
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
ludosti, are there statistics on Cervadil vs. pitocin induction? I was under the impression pitocin was more effective and that if she's at -3, you're having lots of Braxton Hicks, and you're 1.5 cm, you're about where I was when I was induced with Bridey (pitocin only.)
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
They usually start with Cervidil (it acts as a cervical ripening agent) before moving to Pitocin. As my doctor explained it, sometimes the Cervidil itself is enough to start you into labor, but if not, it does a better job of preparing your cervix than the Pitocin does (which is why they use it first).
I ended up having to go to the hospital last night to get checked out because I started bleeding (not spotting but not hemorrhaging). The baby is doing fine and I don't have any placental issues (no contraction or anything and my cervix hadn't massively dilated or anything), so most likely it was a weird consequence of my exam yesterday (though I've never even spotted at all during the pregnancy, which is why I was concerned). It seems to only have lasted a few hours and hasn't kicked up again today, so we're still playing the waiting game.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I know several women who have had that happen right before they pass the mucus plug. So, you never know...
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
That's one thing I thought about when it first started, but I was startled by the amount (and that it lasted for about 4 hours). The nurse last night that checked my cervix said I still seem to be about 1 cm, but here's hoping that'll change. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, in the women I was thinking of, they went in for a check, had bleeding like a light to medium period for a few hours, then 24 to 48 hours later lost the mucus plug. One then went into labor, the other had to be induced, I don't remember what happened with the last one. But there's a chance...
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, I forgot to mention I had another insatiable craving last night.
I made Jeff go get me a hamburger while I put the laundry away, and when he brought it back I put strawberry jam on it. Mmmmm. It was really good, although I think in the future I'll arrange to have peach or plum or apricot-pineapple on hand (strawberry was all we had.)
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
I didn't use cervadil, but I was very ripe, just not going into labor.
edit to add 3cms, 60-70% effaced.
[ December 18, 2007, 06:13 PM: Message edited by: scholar ]
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I was 3 cm. and 90% effaced when I was induced with Emma, 1.5 cm and 70% effaced when I was induced with Bridey.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Ludosti, I wish I had posted this sooner, but anyway, I'm thinking of you today!!! Lots of wishes for a good labor (wasn't really sure what kind of labor to wish you...painless is obviously pretty unrealistic!) and a healthy daughter.
Hansenj, my due date was 1/21. So you must be due in early February, right??
And now my news:
Nathaniel is home!
And oh my goodness, it so SO hard to take care of a baby. And this one mostly just sleeps, bless his little heart. (He eats and poops a lot, too.)
We went to the pediatrician today. Traumatic...but he was 5 lbs. 7 oz., so he's gained 6 oz. since his discharge on Tuesday.
Breastfeeding is going better. We're both getting more used to it. I still have to give him 2 formula feedings a day to get his weight up. I haven't been successful with breastfeeding him at night yet, because by the time he has cried enough to wake us up, and we've changed his diaper, he's too worked up to put in the effort to breastfeed. So I'm still pumping at night, but all of his daytime feedings have been successful.
Uh oh. He's starting to stir a little....
Edited for clarity.
[ December 21, 2007, 12:55 PM: Message edited by: Liz B ]
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Congratulations Liz! Just keep working on the b/f, as he gets older it will probably get easier for him. I told my mom about him breastfeeding and she was astonished (she works with babies that have feeding problems a lot) that he had a suck good enough to breastfeed at all right now! She says many babies don't get a suck that strong until at least 36.5 to 37 weeks (gestational age.) So you're doing great!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Huh. I posted this earlier but apparently Hatrack ate it.
So, back from the ultrasound. Saw a healthy baby with four limbs, a four-chambered heart and...
crossed legs. The doctor couldn't get a clear shot. He said, "I don't see anything hanging out there, but I don't see a definitive girl, either." It was just not a clear enough shot to tell. He's leaning toward girl but said there is a definite possibility it's a boy, still. No three white lines, no little turtle head. *sigh* And my mom and I still have had no gender dreams. So this baby just does not want us to know.
We're looking into vanity 4D places, see if we can get a clearer shot a different day.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Wow, kq. Thanks!!! That makes me feel better. Yay Nathaniel. I knew he was brilliant.
Aaaaand...I'm going to go ahead and wager that it's a boy. After all, boys are so ornery.
Glad that the baby is healthy!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Yes, but girls are coy. With my oldest (a girl) I had a whole bunch of ultrasounds (I was part of an NIH study, in addition to the ones my doctor did in her office), and we never got a clear look. And we tried!
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
My due date is January 30th.
I'm so glad Nathaniel is home!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:Yes, but girls are coy.
Not my oldest two. They both gave us nice clear shots of wide open legs. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
So did my younger one.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
She's here!! I ended up needing a C-section because the induction didn't progress the way it should have. I was pretty disappointed at first that things didn't work out as I would have liked, but they definitely worked out for the best (it turns out the cord was right next to her head, which was wedged at a weird angle, and her chest was a full inch larger than her head).
She was 8 lbs, 21.25 inches and she is beautiful!! We were able to come home on Christmas day and we're glad to be home. Adjusting to everything is difficult but she really is a good baby, so I can't complain.
[ December 28, 2007, 07:37 PM: Message edited by: ludosti ]
Posted by Corwin (Member # 5705) on :
Congratulations! And wow, that's a lot of hair for a newborn, isn't it?
Posted by DeathofBees (Member # 3862) on :
Congratulations, ludosti! She really is beautiful, too. Love those pouty lips.
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
Yay! I'm so happy for you both.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
C-section babies have an unfair advantage in the looks department. She is absolutely lovely!
Enjoy mommyhood, and take it easy. You not only just had a baby, you also had major surgery!
Posted by Derrell (Member # 6062) on :
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
quote:Originally posted by Corwin: Congratulations! And wow, that's a lot of hair for a newborn, isn't it?
I forgot to take my phenergan last night and spent this morning (and much of the afternoon) gagging, throwing up, and suffering from low blood sugar and dehydration.
I guess I really need to keep taking it. *sigh* You'd think it would be at least lessening, at close to 23 weeks, but nooooo...
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Been gone for the holidays and now I'm back, so, to catch up:
ludosti: CONGRATULATIONS!
ketchupqueen: Congrats on finding out you're having a girl. I didn't think of the 4-D option if the baby had its legs crossed. I've got my u/s in less than an hour and we'll see what happens.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
P.S. It's a GIRL!!!!
Name tba
Posted by Corwin (Member # 5705) on :
Cool! She'll love that name. Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Congratulations, Christine. And kq, congrats on outsmarting your little daughter! Is her name really going to be Maggie? (I have always loved that name. Also Molly.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yes, her name is really Maggie. Of course, it will officially be Margaret, but we will call her Maggie. (It came to me in a dream before we started TTC. I'm not kidding. My husband had vetoed Margaret in the past, so I hadn't even had it on the official name list-- we have, like, our next 3 girls' and 3 boys' names already pretty much picked out. But I had the dream and was able to convince him that he really did like Maggie, same as I convinced him on Niamh for Bridey's middle name.) Right now the middle name is tentatively Faith, but we may change our minds on that, there are several other middle names on the radar.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Congrats on the little girls kq and Christine!
Yay for no more nausea! Now to just remember to eat. It was pretty depressing to be throwing up in the hospital (and even in the OR as they were prepping me for my c-section) even though they were pumping me full of anti-nausea meds.
I am totally in awe of all you mothers. This is really hard work!! Jessica is such a good baby, but it's still hard. I can't imagine how single mothers ever do this! I've survived the first week home though - it doesn't seem like it's been that long. more Jessica pictures Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
She's gorgeous!
1) Yes, it is. But it does get easier, as you develop routines and adjust to each other. Getting more sleep (which probably won't happen for a while) helps a lot too.
2) You JUST HAD MAJOR SURGERY! Give yourself a break!
3) Yay for one week. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*points at rivka's post* What she said. Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
We're having another boy!
It's funny. I was getting more and more convinced over time that this one was a girl because the pregnancy had been at least a little different from last time. My mom and sister were also convinced he was a girl.
Then, two nights before the ultrasound, I dreamed I went and found out it was a boy and was very surprised. I woke up that morning and readjusted my expectations to be ready for anything.
If I hadn't had the dream, it might have been prophetic. It's like the oracle in The Matrix or something. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Congrats Brinestone (& JB) Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Congrats, Brinestone!
I had no feelings either way about this one, and my husband was starting to really think it was a boy because it was such a different pregnancy-- until the morning before we had the ultrasound where we found out (not the one where we didn't!)
I was looking at one of the girls' little hair things sets, and noticing that the stretchy headband was small enough it could fit a newborn. I was thinking, "How cute, the new baby can wear this one, and the girls can have the matching ponytail holders in their hair!" Then I thought, "Wait a minute, if it's a boy, I can't do that. Oh."
So starting that morning, I kind of was prepared for a girl.
I guess Maggie just decided that was the day to finally let us know!
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Congratulations on the second boy, Brinestone!
I had my 36 week appointment today, and I had my first internal exam. I'm 75% effaced and 2 cm dilated. She felt the head (station is about -1) and everything. It's exciting, but I've heard too many stories to think that this means he's coming any day now. The doctor was careful not to get my hopes up for an early delivery or anything, but she did say it was good to be progressing like this since I'm a first time mom, especially the thinning cervix. It's good to know things are looking good!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:It's exciting, but I've heard too many stories to think that this means he's coming any day now.
Good way to think-- but make sure you have some baby clothes washed and your hospital bag packed, just in case. Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Oh yeah...I should get on that bag packing thing. Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Congrats on the beautiful babies!
I had my 32 (36) week appointment with my OB today. It was...every bit as frustrating and disappointing as they have been up to now.
Fortunately (or not, depending on how you look at it), he's finally realized that I'm not off my rocker in regards to the due date thing. To get there, though, involved an almost-heated discussion regarding my "huge baby, measuring about a month ahead so far," pressure to schedule a CS, how I must have undiagnosed GD since I'm measuring so big and missed the GTT due to the ice storm that left us blocked in and without power for five days, etc...blah, blah, blah.
So I finally made him go get a wheel thingie. spent ten minutes arguing with him about it, before he FINALLY gave me the darn thing and I showed him how to use it...then. it. was. a miracle. It was like a light bulb finally turned on for him and he apologized up one side and down the other, thanked me for being persistent, and asked politely how I felt about coming back in one week for the StrepB test.
So, it's 36 weeks TODAY and my "new, improved due date" is February 1st. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Congratulations on getting through to the OB. At least he apologized!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Hurrah! He finally saw the light! (Idiot.) Did you laugh a lot? I would point and laugh every time I saw him, from now on. But I know you're nicer than me...
You do realize I'm EXACTLY three months behind you, with that due date. I think you must have magic powers or something, after I got back from that trip my cyst went away and I got pregnant right away...
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(Okay, I'm finding it disturbing that the ad below this thread is about twin pregnancy.
My worst nightmare right now is an undetected twin-- unlikely, but I've heard of it-- I dream about it frequently...)
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Okay, I wasn't gonna say anything, but I have been having pink dreams for the last couple of weeks. I didn't know if this was for me or you, until you sent me pics of the gender shot.
BUT, last night I had a pink dream, with 2 babies. Yours and mine? Both yours? Both mine?
I thought maybe it was just my grandpa's prediction making me have the pink dreams, but with two babies...maybe this one's another girl. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, heck, not two for me, ohhh, no.
If it's one yours and one mine, I'm gonna buy them matching outfits. You know that, right?
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
That would be CUTE! And is exactly what I think, one mine and one yours. Of course, Grandpa HAS been wrong two or three times now (out of 5 kids, 14 grandkids, 37 great-grandkids and 8 great-great-grandkids). Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*plots sets of five matching dresses, instead of just three*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(Jeff is gonna roll his eyes SO BAD. "You don't have enough fun matching all our girls? You have to match hers too?")
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I just went on the Land's End website and found the CUTEST dress that comes in big girl, little girl, toddler, AND has a baby version in sizes from 0-12 months. *makes plots for her share of this year's tax return*
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Congrats on your boy, Brinestone!
I was having trouble getting a reading on this one, too. The pregnancy is very similar to my first but I never took that to mean I was going to have another boy. I started showing earlier, but that's typical of second pregnancies.
I think what really got in the way was that every time I thought I was having a girl I would think I was just getting my hopes up and force myself to think I was having a boy -- so I'd be prepared for whatever God gave me. (Two is probably it for me, so this may be my only chance to have one of each. I feel so lucky it worked out the way I hoped. I could still change my mind and go for #3, but at least now if I do, it will be because I want 3 children, and not because I'm hoping for a ____.)
Reading these last few posts, I realize I am having trouble remembering/keeping track of who has how many babies already and what ages.
I've got a 2-year-old son named Drake Alexander. (2 in November)
Anyone else?
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Daniel's 10, Jennifer's 9, Thomas is 3, and I'm 36+1 with the new one. Gender unknown, and we're not even close to picking a name (or two); not even down to a list.
And hubby's out of town for a week or two. And I'm trying to clean house; I have my home visit with my midwife and doula on Wednesday and my house is a wreck. And my poor Boo was sick last night with (TMI ALERT) foul-smelling liquid coming out both ends. Which means that, even though I cleaned my bathroom thoroughly yesterday, I have to do it again today. But at least he's better today.
Oh yeah, and have I mentioned the HEARTBURN?!?
::sigh:: I'm running out of steam.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:and we're not even close to picking a name (or two); not even down to a list.
I bet Ems would have some suggestions for you... She sure does for us! (She drew a picture of you with a baby in your tummy next to me with a baby in my tummy, btw. And Jen was bringing us drinks of water. And Thomas and Emma and Bridget were playing. Isn't that cute?)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:And my poor Boo was sick last night with (TMI ALERT) foul-smelling liquid coming out both ends. Which means that, even though I cleaned my bathroom thoroughly yesterday, I have to do it again today. But at least he's better today.
Oh yeah, and have I mentioned the HEARTBURN?!?
I sympathize. Except I've given up on cleaning house... I just clean the kitchens and the bathrooms, now. And the occasional load of laundry. Jeff is cleaning right now. And I practically live on Zantac...
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Christine, I have Emma, 3, and Bridget, 20 months. Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by Boon: Daniel's 10, Jennifer's 9, Thomas is 3, and I'm 36+1 with the new one. Gender unknown, and we're not even close to picking a name (or two); not even down to a list.
And hubby's out of town for a week or two. And I'm trying to clean house; I have my home visit with my midwife and doula on Wednesday and my house is a wreck. And my poor Boo was sick last night with (TMI ALERT) foul-smelling liquid coming out both ends. Which means that, even though I cleaned my bathroom thoroughly yesterday, I have to do it again today. But at least he's better today.
Oh yeah, and have I mentioned the HEARTBURN?!?
::sigh:: I'm running out of steam.
Yuck! I'm sorry. :=(
I got really bad heartburn in my 3rd trimester with my son...I almost forgot. Maybe I can keep forgetting. (hoping...hoping...)
I'm trying to clean the house, too. My parents are in town next weekend so I need to do the BIG CLEAN and we're painting my son's new bedroom this weekend so the place is a wreck. At least my son will "help" me clean next week. He likes to sweep, vacuum, and cook. Not so big on the bathroom but can I blame him? :=)
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
I just heard that a family friend is naming her daughter after glass dishwear.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Corelle?
Posted by Morbo (Member # 5309) on :
Carnival?
edit: good guess, kq.
[ January 06, 2008, 02:43 PM: Message edited by: Morbo ]
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Pyrex?
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Correll but yeah it sounds like Corelle.
Posted by Dark as night (Member # 9577) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: (Jeff is gonna roll his eyes SO BAD. "You don't have enough fun matching all our girls? You have to match hers too?")
Let him roll his eyes. Men will never understand. Actually I didn't understand either until recently. I don't have any kids myself, but do have 3 adorable nephews. Anyway, my sister-in-law is expecting my first niece and the moment I found out it was a girl, I went out shopping. Well, I must admit, I've been going a little overboard, but girl clothes are so much FUN! And matching outfits would be so adorable, if she wasn't going to be the only girl.
Anyway, I understand. There was one dress my sister-in-law and I liked so much that we, unbeknownst to each other bought it, luckily in different sizes. We considered returning one of them and then decided to keep both. My brother rolled his eyes... of course. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
That happened at Emma's second birthday-- my two sisters each bought sundresses for her, and one of the dresses they bought was the same! They just both thought it was so cute!
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
If I have a second girl, she will be living on hand me downs probably, so I doubt they'll be much matching unless grandmas buy them. I have the first grandchild on both sides, only granddaughter, so I don't buy clothes. I also am saving half the toys she got for Christmas this year and giving them to her next year (she's one, she won't remember). And just so no one thinks I am being cruel, she is keeping a Little people pink castle, the pirate ship, six of the small extra sets to go with them, a baby's first laptop, a shopping cart, two baby dolls and a learning catepillar. Oh, and the giant legos.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I really try to restrain myself. I only buy a few matching outfits a year, and they're usually on deep, deep discount-- but Easter and Christmas dresses are ALWAYS matching! (Of course, I try to get those on sale too-- the two I got this year for their Christmas dresses were $17.50 each, originally $50 each, and I paid with a gift card to boot!) Bridey mostly wears hand-me-downs and Emma wears what other people give me, too, or clothes from the clearance rack and thrift store. (Well, they both get clothes from the thrift store.)
I'm glad I have such a great thrift store because I love shopping and we'd be really in trouble if I couldn't get everything I need for them (other than socks and underwear and tights, usually) for $5 or less.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Why am I awake?
I do not wish to be awake this early.
Silly children. (All three of them have contributed to my being up at this time. Grrr.)
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Fortunately for me, Nathaniel seems to like to take his first nap between 8-11 AM. This usually means that I can sleep till at least 9 or 10.
We went for our first walk the day before yesterday: first in the Snugli, then in the stroller. (Lovely mild weather here, in the high 60s/ low 70s.)
In other FANTASTIC news, our insurance approved Synagis* shots for Nathaniel. We had gotten a letter saying that it wasn't approved, but today the pediatrician called to say it was. We had been trying to decide what to do, if we should pay for the shots ourselves--they're sooooo expensive. So sometimes insurance companies aren't evil! I'd say it makes sense from their POV, though...as expensive as the shots are, they're a LOT cheaper than a stay in the hospital.
*Synagis is a vaccine for RSV (cold virus). Nathaniel was born at 33 weeks 4 days, just outside the window for which the shots are given routinely (up to 32 weeks). RSV is particularly dangerous for preemies because of how often it can require hospitalization/ develop into pneumonia.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Hooray for getting the shots! I've got a lead on a discount on the carseats we have to buy; I'm waiting for an e-mail back on that one. *crosses fingers*
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I'm surprised they put the cutoff for getting those shots so early! RSV is nasty enough for term babies. (My niece got it when she was a couple of weeks old. She stopped breathing at one point...scary stuff.)
I'm glad you got it, though. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I HATE BRAXTON-HICKS.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Really? I rather liked them.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
O_o
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I liked 'em too. But I think we both had them for a lot shorter time and less frequently than kq.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Yeah.
BH in first pregnancies are nothing like BH in third pregnancies.
Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
quote:Originally posted by Brinestone: Really? I rather liked them.
Unless you found the contractions of labor likeable. I mean, some women say birth is the greatest pleasure of their lives, so anything is possible.
The second and third pregnancies they were still novel and exciting. The fourth pregnancy, they started ridiculously early and were very intense.
(I apologize for editing this post so much. I remembered what is it like to be pregnant and have people contradict you).
Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
My sister is in her fourth pregnancy, and she started Braxton Hicks at 4.5 months. That was even more ridiculously early than I recall mine, but her kids are much more closely spaced as well.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I thought the contractions of early labor were kind of fun. It wasn't until the back pain started to hit about 20 hours into it that they got bad.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I've only had one so far, but I hated the early contractions because they lasted for weeks (almost a month) and I wasn't sure what I was looking for when it came to "real labor" and there was a false alarm and hours of counting the minutes between contractions (they started coming every 10-15 minutes around the clock 2 weeks in advance). They didn't hurt, but psychologically it wasn't any fun.
This time, who knows? At least I think I understand when real labor starts so maybe I'll just relax with them. They were a little painful, but probably not that bad in retrospect. The stress might have made them seem worse than they were.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I'm 32 1/2 weeks. I have no idea what Braxton Hicks Contraction feel like. I had some cramping this morning, but it felt more intestinal than anything.
*shrug*
I just hope I'll know them if I ever have them.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I only ever had a few Braxton-Hicks, and never more than one or two at a time, with days in between. I can see where having them every 10-15 minutes would be a pain.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
I never had even one teeny-tiny contraction. *sniffle*
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
My BH contractions were never so painful that the excitement of knowing my body was working correctly and the baby was getting closer to being outside of me didn't outweigh the negative.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
This is my fifth pregnancy. With Bridget, they started around 20 weeks, and got so frequent so fast that I was on terbutaline for them by 25. This time, they started at 11 weeks, and while they're the most painful of any I've ever had, are not frequent enough (or doing anything) to warrant medicating me for them (thank goodness.)
Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
Did you have a miscarriage, or is this baby five? I had 4 children, but the first one died. Even I lose count sometimes, but only in the pregnancy department, not in the people department.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I had two miscarriages, one when each of the girls was about a year old. They were very early. I just don't seem to have pregnancies that "stick" until the kid is about 15 months.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(I would probably have moved past it by now, but every single time you go in to the hospital or whatever, they say "this is your third pregnancy?" and I have to correct them, no, fifth pregnancy, third child. It makes me a little sad each time. Just a little.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, I got word back on the carseat issue. No dice yet, but I did get a contact to ask for at the company to see if we can get a multiple-purchase discount for buying three at once.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Owwwwww. Of all the mysterious pains of pregnancy, the ones in my... rear are perhaps the most disturbing. Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Oooh, the rear pain! How I HATE the rear pain. I'm sitting on my bed with one leg hanging off and PAIN in the rear. I shift my legs and PAIN in the rear. I put both legs down and PAIN in the rear. I lay down and turn over and sometimes PAIN in the rear. I manage to get myself out of the bed to go to the bathroom for the 50th time in the last 50 minutes and PAIN in the rear.
I think it's sciatica, as the pain sometimes extends into my upper leg, and rarely into my lower back. It's sharp and I hate it.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Sure sounds like the sciatica I had with my pregnancies, especially kid #3.
Try a chiropractor or physical therapist. Really, helps a LOT.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I would love a bed with a bowl-shape cut out for the belly so I could lay on my stomach again. Oh, and a bed with a head that raises so I can lay on my back. That'd be GREAT.
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
During my last trimester I started fantasizing about laying on my back again. It was pretty pathetic. Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Right now there's this huge box sitting on my bed. KQ said she was sending me something, so I opened it. I got as far as the notebook.
in a good way. I love each and every one of the people who took the time to write an email of good wishes, sent a gift (though I haven't checked out the rest of the box yet, I'm waiting until Hubby gets home from work), or even just thought of us and wished us well recently.
So, I've read the notebook. I've laughed, I've cried, my kids keep hugging me and telling me I have the best friends ever, and they're right.
Can I assume I can go into the "Boon, stay out" thread now? Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Yeah, I think that's ok. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Katarain: I would love a bed with a bowl-shape cut out for the belly so I could lay on my stomach again. Oh, and a bed with a head that raises so I can lay on my back. That'd be GREAT.
They make pillows with holes in the middle for this purpose. And the chiropractor I went to had a table with a cutout in it.
I found that I could lie on my tummy on my waterbed without a problem pretty late in each pregnancy.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Boon got her baby shower. And she likes us.
The rear pain I am having is definitely not sciatica... Though I get that too...
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
kq, my first pregnancy I had trouble with my sacroiliac joint (the joint that's pretty much right in the middle of the glutes). It was a very sharp, annoying pain, right in the joint. A chiropractor or a therapeutic massage therapist should be able to do a release, if that's what you're suffering from.
Boon, glad you had a good day!
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I don't know if it's sciatica or not. That was a self-diagnosis.
But it does hurt right in the middle of the glutes... on one side. So maybe it's the sacroiliac joint!
*goes to google*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
It's not any kind of joint pain. I'm going to stop talking about it now.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Poor kq. *unhelpful snicker*
No, a chiropractor won't help. Sitz bath might.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Nope. Let me just say "muscle spasms." And then really leave it at that.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Old Navy online is having a massive maternity clothes sale. Sweaters for $4.99.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, it's in stores, too. But the closest ON store that sells maternity to us is all the way the other side of Pasadena, so I shopped online instead (the $5 shipping is worth the bigger selection, not having to go down there, and it would be a couple dollars of gas anyway.)
I got a sweater, a top, a loungy shirt and a pair of loungy pants, plus some flip flops for Jeff to wear around the pool, for $18-something before tax and shipping, about $25 after tax and shipping. Awesome.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(I should add that the original prices of all that stuff added up to more than $80. Awesome.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(Oooooh, apparently gap.com has a good clearance right now, too.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I mentioned how much they HURT to my doctor (who says I have an "irritable uterus", and doesn't even want me to call unless they are 10 or more an hour for three hours straight, or I have bleeding, amniotic fluid leaking, or sense something else wrong.) He said, "You know, most women don't experience that much discomfort and pain with Braxton-Hicks, it's very unusual." I glared at him. He quickly added, "I'm not saying you're not in pain! I just see a lot of patients and it's very unusual. I don't know anything we can do for you other than what we're doing, since I really don't want to start you on medication unless we really have to, after what you went through last time."
And he's right but it doesn't make it hurt any less. Posted by Dark as night (Member # 9577) on :
Sorry.
((((((( KQ )))))))
I wish I could give you an epidural right now. It would be a little premature, but hey, it would take care of the pain. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, unfortunately it would be hard to run after kids with an epidural...
I AM planning to get my wisdom teeth out in the next month or two. I am hoping that they will give me some nice heavy-duty pain meds for the teeth and I won't feel the BH for a few days.
Of course, I don't know what I can take that's safe while pregnant since now I can't take codeine...
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Speaking of the epidural... when I mention to other people my desire for a natural childbirth, I also mention that I'm leaving my options open for an epidural--and I am, but it's a small option. I really, really don't want one. I probably wouldn't say no to other pain relief measures that they could offer, but I know there is a risk with an epidural, however small, that I don't want to take. I certainly wouldn't fault any woman for getting one. I don't think not having it would be some sort of badge of honor, unless experiencing great pain is a badge of honor.
So, it's annoying when other women say something like, oh girl, you're gonna get that epidural! These are people who hardly know me, so I must assume they think everyone gets an epidural since they're so sure about me.
Women have been giving birth without them for thousands of years, and women still give birth without them today, whether because it becomes too late for them to get one or they choose not to. If they can handle it, I don't see why I can't.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I applaud you for keeping your options open, and sympathize with the idiocy of other people.
(I had one friend who tried to convince me that it was dumb for any woman to try natural childbirth.)
Posted by lem (Member # 6914) on :
quote: Speaking of the epidural... when I mention to other people my desire for a natural childbirth, I also mention that I'm leaving my options open for an epidural--and I am, but it's a small option. I really, really don't want one.
My wife doesn't have a very strong constitution. She didn't want an epidural because of the risks. She was adamant that she would never get an epidural. As soon as the real contractions hit with our first kid she screamed for the epidural.
With our second child (almost 4 months ago) she WANTED an epidural. When the contractions started our daughter came out so fast that there was no time to give her an epidural, so she gave birth drug free.
I have never seen so much pain in my life. I was sick. They had to close the doors because of the screaming and begging for something....ANYTHING for the pain.
I think God has made her forget the pain because she already wants a third and misses being pregnant!! However, I am still traumatized. Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
When I toured the hospital that I gave birth in I asked how many of their patients go unmedicated and the nurse looked at me like I was crazy and said that everyone needs pain medication. So we were very, very clear in our birth plan that our default was natural childbirth, unmedicated, and they were not to offer or suggest anesthesia or analgesia unless I asked for it. I reserved the right to change my mind at any time, but I didn't want to waste my time and energy arguing that no, I really didn't want it, thanks.
Even though the nurse that gave us that first tour must have thought I was crazy, no one offerred and I did fine. And the nursing supervisor asked to bring in some nursing students since they'd never seen a vaginal birth at all, and would rarely get a chance to see an unmedicated birth.
And it was marvelous.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
dkw, have you written anywhere about your birth experience? I've found sites before where women outline what their childbirth was like, usually natural births. I'd like to hear about it.
Posted by Dark as night (Member # 9577) on :
Katarain, I personally admire people like you. Having never been in labor before, I certainly can't make any statements about what a woman should or shouldn't do. It is most definitely a woman's choice. Nobody else's -- just hers.
I agree with you that there is no badge of honor for experiencing great pain, unless it is the woman's personal goal -- then I'm totally down with that. The only thing that bothers me is when women somehow feel like a failure, or a disgrace, when they have to succumb to an epidural. Usually they've been previously convinced by well-wishing people that getting an epidural will somehow take away from their birthing experience and that they should do all in their power to not get the evil thing.
The other thing that annoys me to no end is when a woman feels like she's failed her childbirth duty by having had a C-section. Believe me, I've seen that happen. Sometimes it can take a lot of effort to comfort the mother and explain to her that having an unplanned C-section because of failure to progress with labor, does NOT make HER any less of a woman, or a mother. The only thing that matters in the end is that she and the baby are both safe and healthy.
What you're describing in terms of "oh girl, you're gonna get that epidural!" would bother me too. It is presumptuous and uncalled for. I'm sorry to hear that you've had to deal with that. In a university hospital where I did most of my OB training we were required to see and assess every single patient. If they told us they did not want an epidural, we would politely explain to them that the option was there and excuse ourselves. There were of course patients who would originally decline an epidural, but then would change their mind. It is OK. It's a personal decision that nobody can give you a hard time for.
Don't let anyone dissuade you from being able to have a natural birth. Like you said, plenty of women did it and still do it now. Good luck! Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Oh, I don't deserve any admiration--unless it's for giving up peanuts during this pregnancy on the off chance that it will help my child not have a peanut allergy. (There is no history of peanut allergies in my family, but I believe that if I abstain from peanuts it can help my baby's chances, however remotely.) I want peanut butter so bad that I think I deserve admiration for that! But not for *wanting* a natural childbirth, but keeping my options open. If I had time for natural childbirth courses, I'm sure I'd feel more certain about not getting an epidural.
And thanks. Posted by School4ever (Member # 5575) on :
KQ - I hate the number of pregnancies, number of children question because I always have to explain I have had one pregnancy, but that ended as an ectopic pregnancy, I have one child. The doctors say I should not put my child on there since it makes it look like I had a successful pregnancy, but he is my son! When someone asks me how many children I have, I am going to include him!
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I did post my birth story on Mike's forum, I can dig it out for you if you'd like. I'd also be happy to share my birth plan -- I really recommend having a written plan both to go over with your doctor and to talk to the nurses about before you're in intense labor. The second time we visited the hospital we handed the nurse the typed plan before talking, and the discussion went much better. She knew that we'd done our research and knew what we were talking about, and what was most important to us and why. Everything proceeded on a much more respectful level after that. (Although I've updated the plan to be a little more specific about the pushing and delivery phase, where we kind of got sidetracked last time.)
Also, for lots of birth stories that fit with the attitude you seem to be going for I HIGHLY reccommend Dr. Sears' The Birth Book. While definitly encouraging unmedicated birth, the book clearly states that any birth resulting in a healthy baby and healthy mother is a sucessful birth. And comes from the position that you are more likely to be satisfied with your birth experience (even if you end up needing an epidural or a C-section) if you are educated about your options and participate in decision making so that you know that any interventions are done because you know that it's the best thing to do, not because you're railroaded into it or because "everybody" does it that way.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Yes, I'm very interested in reading your birth story and plan.
Thanks for the book recommendation. I'll look it up. I love getting recommendations, because if I research on my own looking for a book about birthing, I'll find so many that I won't know what to choose!
Ultimately, my goal is a healthy baby and a healthy me. I haven't taken any birthing classes, and I feel kind of negligent about that. I'm 33 weeks, so maybe I'll still be able to find one. If there were Bradley Method classes around here, I would have tried to go to them, since they were recommended by another couple that I know.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
If you do a lot of reading/research on your own, the standard generic classes are kind of a waste of time. I could have taught ours. The one advantage was that since Bob & I did it together it provided an opportunity to talk about stuff and get the two of us on the same page.
Also we had a weird instructor who assigned us to write a poem in honor of the placenta, which Bob really enjoyed. (Surprisingly enough (or not) he was the only one who actually wrote one.) And it was a great poem.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
quote:Originally posted by rivka: I applaud you for keeping your options open, and sympathize with the idiocy of other people.
(I had one friend who tried to convince me that it was dumb for any woman to try natural childbirth.)
I don't think it is dumb for any woman to try natural childbirth, but I do think it is dumb for any woman to say that is the only way. Healthy baby should alway be the number one goal and it upsets me when some woman seem to put the natural birth over the health of the baby. Also, I don't think husbands get a say.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
You know, Dark as night, practical as I am, I am still ambivalent about my C-section. Don't get me wrong--I in no way think that I should have had a vaginal birth. Nonetheless, I wish I could have.
Trust me, this surprises me. After all, it doesn't make sense.
Throughout my pregnancy, I firmly believed that I would be ready for and welcome any necessary interventions. I expected to get an epidural (although I planned to wait until I needed it), and my husband and I discussed that if my doctor (whom I trusted to be non-interventionist unless intervention was necessary) recommended a C-section for any reason, we would go with his recommendation with no regrets. As I said at the time, "Who cares how I have the baby as long as we're both healthy?"
Now, after delivering via urgent C-section 6 weeks early due to severe pre-eclampsia, I find that I care. I know that my emotions about the C-section are all mixed up with my regret that I couldn't carry my baby longer for his sake, and my concerns about developing pre-eclampsia in the future and maybe not having any more children because of that risk (and therefore never experiencing normal childbirth). And I'm sure it's probably also complicated by the fact that my postpartum hospital stay was stressful and sad instead of mostly happy and somewhat stressful.
My story has a happy ending, but it doesn't keep me from wishing that it had been more like what I had expected--and from being sad that it wasn't.
By the way, I read your post as being annoyed at the well-meaning people who convinced the women that natural childbirth was the only "womanly" way, not the women who were sad about their C-sections. I just wanted to give the point of view of someone who had no particular interest in natural childbirth in the first place.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
*hugs* Liz.
I think I would feel about a C-section the same way I would about any other surgery -- glad it was available if I needed it and sorry that I needed it.
Is pre-eclampsia something that's likey to re-occur? That would be scary.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Thanks, dkw.
Well, around 5-10% of women develop pre-eclampsia in a first pregnancy. The recurrence rate is 25-60%, depending on who you ask. Recurrence is less likely the later in the pregnancy the problem developed. My likelihood is probably closer to 40%, given that I moved from pregnancy-induced hypertension to preeclampsia at 32-33 weeks.
I think I'm probably close to 100% in my likelihood to develop PIH again, because my blood pressure seems to be sensitive to estrogen. (I've had to be on BP meds post-partum, but now that I'm about 6 weeks out, I'm going off them gradually as my hormone levels normalize.) My PCP thinks that with aggressive treatment of the hypertension, I'd be less likely to develop pre-eclampsia. Who knows...the scariest thing about this disease is that there's no way to prevent it.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
School4ever, I sympathise-- but on the forms I've filled out it always asks "how many children living," so that doesn't come up for me. The number of pregnancies vs. living children is something they look at to see if there is a red flag they need to be looking out for, I think.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
Liz B- that sucks. Maybe in the next few years they'll figure something out or your body will miraculously change. I have some gynecological problems and my dr keeps telling me that with the pregnancy and the breastfeeding, it is impossible to predict how my body will behave.
Posted by Dark as night (Member # 9577) on :
quote:Originally posted by Liz B: By the way, I read your post as being annoyed at the well-meaning people who convinced the women that natural childbirth was the only "womanly" way, not the women who were sad about their C-sections. I just wanted to give the point of view of someone who had no particular interest in natural childbirth in the first place.
Liz, at first I was confused by what you said, but then I reread my own post and realized how poorly worded it was. You're right. I meant that I was annoyed at people who made the already sad women feel even worse. But looking back at it, I'm actually pleasantly surprised that you saw it for what I meant, not for what I wrote. Thank you for thinking better of me.
Like I said in that post, it often takes a lot of effort to comfort the patient, when she is upset and understandably frustrated with the situation. As you yourself know all too well, often times the unscheduled C-section happen urgently or emergently to a woman who didn't expect it and didn't plan it. Frequently her own emotions about suddenly having to undergo a major surgery are mixed with concern for the baby's well-being. If a C-section is truly emergent and the mother has to be put under general anesthesia, it causes an added level of stress to her afterwards. I can't imagine how traumatic it would be to wake up from anesthesia and realize that your baby has already been born and you weren't even awake for it.
And of course there's the stress of the future. VBACs are falling out of favor and I personally would be devastated if I found out that after having a C-section once I wouldn't be able to have a vaginal birth with subsequent children.
Anyway, I just wanted to apologize for my rant earlier. All I was trying to say is that every woman should make her own choice about how to have her baby and that nobody should make her feel bad about how she decides to do it. I'm looking forward to being pregnant, having babies and making those decisions myself one day.
As for now, all I try to do is comfort the mothers that need comforting and relieve pain whenever I can. Every time I have a chance to be present for a birth of a baby, I consider it a blessing. Sharing that precious sacred moment is amazing. And I love being the first person who gets to take a picture of the newborn baby with his or her parents!
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Reposted from Sakeriver almost 16 months ago -- John's Birth Story
I think my labor started on Wednesday night. I didn’t realize it at the time, all I knew is that I got up to go to the bathroom at 11:30, 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30, 4:30 and 5:30 and thought it was kind of weird that my bladder had become so regular. When I came back to bed at 5:30 Bob was awake, and we lay there talking until 6:30, when I had a noticeable contraction, and then immediately had to go to the bathroom. At which point I realized that that was probably what had been waking me up all night. So I got up again, went to the bathroom, and discovered that I’d lost my mucus plug (well, not lost it exactly -- there it was). I figured Mom would be up by then, so I called her to let her know that she might want to pack for longer than a weekend trip – she and Liza were planning on coming down that night after work to scrape and paint the nursery. Dad had arrived on Tuesday to get it started. We started timing contractions, which seemed to be coming about every 12 minutes. Around 8 I decided to make breakfast. Dad stuck his head out on my way to the kitchen, and I asked him if he wanted eggs. Just then his cell phone rang, and it was Mom asking if anything was happening and should she leave early. Dad asked her what the heck she was talking about, and she said, “Dana’s in labor.” He said, “Dana’s poaching eggs.”
I called the doctor’s office to give them a heads-up and the nurse agreed with me that it probably wouldn’t get too exciting until that evening or maybe even the next morning. I went into work for a while, went out to lunch with Bob & Dad, packed the hospital bags, tried to rest. Contractions pretty much stayed at 12-15 minutes all day, but got progressively stronger. Liza and Mom arrived in time for supper. After supper things started getting a little faster, so we sent Mom to the airport to fetch Bob’s mom (who had managed to book a flight immediately after Bob called her that morning). We sat around and ate chocolate and talked until maybe 11:30 or so, by which time the contractions were at 7 ½ minutes and fairly uncomfortable. But we discovered that if Bob pressed his fist hard into the small of my back it helped a lot. Bob’s mom went back to the hotel, and I called the hospital to let the birth folks know we’d probably be coming in sometime in the night. The nurse suggested a warm bath or shower, which would either slow the contractions enough for me to rest or speed them up enough that I’d know I should come in. It didn’t actually have any effect on the contractions, but it relaxed me enough to sleep between them, so Bob got the car out of the garage and put the bags in it and we went to bed. Earlier when I’d tried to nap I found out that it hurt to be lying down when a contraction hit, but the fist in the lower back thing still seemed to be working, so we got some sleep.
About 2:30 the contractions were still at 7 ½ minutes, but when I got up to go to the bathroom I started shaking and felt nauseous, so I decided we should head for the hospital before anything happened that would make the trip any more miserable. Fortunately it’s less than ½ mile away – I had a contraction holding onto the car door with Bob holding me, hopped in the car, and was out and holding onto the car door in the hospital parking lot when the next one hit. Mom followed in her car, and helped carry stuff in.
We snuck past the registration desk and went straight up to the birth center. A nurse buzzed us in and took us to our suite. The hospital had our birth plan on file, and she told me she’d read it after I called, and it looked good. We decided to hook me up to the monitors for 30 minutes to see how things were going, and then she’d check my cervix. Baby’s heart rate was good, changing up and down with movements and contractions, which were still at about 7 minutes. Then she checked my cervix. It was only 2 cm dilated, but fully effaced. She told us she’d be back in an hour to see how I was progressing. I stayed in bed, lying on my side, sleeping between contractions. Bob sat on the doctor’s stool behind me, with a hand on my hip so he could feel what was going on and dozed between contractions. Mom fell asleep in the chair.
When the nurse came back in an hour, I was dilated to 5 cm and she couldn’t feel the bag of waters anymore. I hadn’t noticed it breaking, but I did notice after that that the contractions had a little gush of fluid accompanying each one. She went to call the doctor. Contractions were starting to get hellacious, but the counter-pressure still helped. I must admit that I thought the advice from our prepared childbirth classes where the dad is supposed to “remind her to relax” were ridiculous, but it turns out it helped. Every now and then I would really tense up, which made things unbearable, and Bob would say “you have to relax” and I would concentrate on taking a deep breath and breathing out slowly and my muscles relaxed and everything felt better. I also got the giggles when I realized that I was using moves that I learned when Liza, Mom and I took belly-dance classes to move my back against Bob’s fist. The pelvic-rotation aspect seemed to help. The nurse came back after an hour to check on us, and said she’d be back in half an hour or so to check my cervix again.
The contractions got close enough together that dozing between them was no longer an option. I was hooked to the monitor again since I was lying down – that was the compromise with the hospital policy, I could be off it if I was moving around, but when I was in bed they hooked me up. Bob was watching the little numbers and said I must be in transition, because the contractions had multiple peaks. I thought it was probably too soon for that, but pretty soon I changed breathing patterns – not intentionally, but suddenly blowing air out in short puffs was more comfortable than long slow breaths. I tried one of the Lamaze patterns we’d learned in class, but it didn’t help at all so I went back to blowing. Along with clutching the bedrail ( I was lying on my side) and pressing my back against Bob. We later found out that baby was posterior, which explained the back labor. He managed to rotate during the pushing phase and come out the right way, though.
When the nurse came back I told her I’d like to get up and go to the bathroom. She said she’d just check me quick first, and then help me up. She did, and then said there was no way I was getting up because I was at 10 cm and the baby was there. She said to keep breathing through the contractions the way I’d been, while she got the doctor. She was back in a minute to say he was 8 minutes away, but not to worry, she’d delivered babies before and could do it again if she had to. The contractions actually got a little easier then, they were further apart so I had 1 ½ -2 minutes to rest and chat in between them. I felt great in between, and as long as Bob was pushing on my back not so bad during.
A nursing supervisor came in and said that they had two nursing students, one male and one female, who had never seen a vaginal birth, and would I mind if they observed? I looked at Bob, who said it was up to me, so I said it would be fine. They came in and stood in the corner.
The doctor got there and put down bunches of plastic and absorbent stuff. Then he took a look and said that on the next contraction I should push. This is the one part of the experience I would change – I hadn’t specifically talked to the doctor or the nurses about alternative positions for the pushing and birth, and so I was in the “traditional” (for the last hundred years) half-sitting, half-lying, with my tailbone pressed into the bed so it couldn’t move out of the way trying to push the baby uphill pose. I would have much rather been squatting or lying on my side, but I couldn’t seem to articulate that at the time, so I decided to just let it go and do it their way. If there’s a next time I’ll be talking that part out ahead of time, because I’m convinced the pushing part was a lot worse than it needed to be. Anyway, after the first push the doctor got Mom and one of the nurses on each side to hold my feet up so I could push against their hands and Bob and one of the other nurses on each side to help me curl forward and tuck my chin in kind of a “abdominal crunch” sort of exercise. And since I kept trying to reach over my head and pull on the bedrails the nurse flipped up some rings at about hip level for me to pull against. And the doctor and nurse kept telling me to take a deep breath, hold it and push for a count of ten.
Unfortunately, I seemed to have forgotten how to take a deep breath and hold it. Every time they said “hold it” I breathed out instead of in and everyone yelled “no, no, hold it. I kept saying, “I can’t, I can’t” and I’m pretty sure they though I was referring to the whole pushing thing, but meant that I couldn’t make my lungs remember which way was in and which was out. I figured it out eventually, though, and managed to get in two pushes every contraction. The nurse thought I should have three and kept scolding me and saying unhelpful things like “you’re the only one who can push this baby out, you have to do this, blah, blah, blah.” I tuned her out. Bob held me and said helpful things, although I don’t actually remember what any of them were now. I was still getting over a minute’s rest between contractions, and people would feed me ice chips and re-wet the cold washcloth I’d asked for on my forehead. Bob laughed at me once because I said “thank you” when they gave me my washcloth back. I think he thought I was supposed to be out of control and “not myself” by then. I do seem to recall at one point telling him I’d changed my mind and was he sure we wanted a baby, so he might not have been too far off in that.
I really don’t know how long that part lasted, but one of the times I was pushing (and cheating by only going 8-9 seconds because my head hurt if I held my breath any longer) I’d already DONE three and the doctor and nurse said “one more, NOW” with enough intensity that even though the contraction was over I took another breath and pushed and his head popped out. It was the most overwhelming sense of relief I have ever felt. I really couldn’t feel anything down there but pressure up to that point, but once the rock-solid little head was out I suddenly had tactile sensation again and since the contraction was over everything was relaxed and I felt just great. Mom and Bob were both crying, and the doctor suctioned out the baby’s nose and mouth while we were waiting for the next contraction. Then one more little push and he wriggled right out. That felt reallyreallyreally weird. They put him right on my abdomen and covered him up with a towel. I was too busy looking at him to notice what was going on with my nether regions until I felt this very strange slurping, blurping thing that was the placenta coming out.
Bob kept the nurses from picking the baby up right away, so I got to hold him on my tummy and talk to him for quite a bit. They brought all the equipment and stuff into the room, so eventually they picked him up and weighed and stuck and measured him and put the goopy ointment in his eyes. Everybody went over to the other side of the room with him to ooo and aaaah and left me being examined and stitched. I had one tear and a few “skid marks” that didn’t need stitches. So I’m not quite sure what that part took three times as long as the actual birth. Maybe it just seemed that way. Mom did come back to talk to me after a bit, though. And somebody brought me ice water in a big cup/jug. Ah, blessed water!
Once I was finally knees down and had a sheet over my lap they let in Dad and Liza and Bob’s mom, who were waiting in the family room. The nurses were supposed to have told them that they could come in for the birth if they wanted to, but that message got lost somehow. Everybody held the baby, and then I got him back to try breastfeeding. The extended family decided to give us a little time alone and trooped out. I sat up straight and got my pillows arranged. The nurse started to be helpful, saying, “now hold him with the other arm . . .” But I said, “No, we’re going to try the reverse cradle hold first so I can see what I’m doing and have better control during latch-on.” So she backed away a couple steps and left us to it. He latched on right away, and sucked for a good 15 minutes, then switched sides and went for another 15. The maternity floor had a sort of continental breakfast buffet, so Bob fetched toast and juice while I fed John. Then the extended family returned, bringing us treats from Panera.
After two or three tries at getting me to rate my current level of pain on their 1-10 happy-sad face scale the nurses gave up, since I kept telling them I wasn’t feeling any. They put a thing in the toilet to catch and measure pee, so of course my bashful bladder acted up and I couldn’t go. Finally the nurse threatened a urinary catheter if I didn’t produce 200 cc within the hour. I drank another 32 oz of water and made it just under deadline. John also was required to wet a diaper within 24 hours of birth and managed it with just half an hour to spare. He’s Momma’s boy!
The hospital provides a celebratory “steak” dinner to every happy couple after the birth of a baby, so we had it that night to celebrate Bob’s birthday and John’s birth. And when the doctor came to check on us in the morning he said we were healthy as could be and could go home early if we wanted to. And we did. Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Birth Plan
August 27, 2006
To: [Name of Local Hospital] Birthing Center Caregivers
From: Dana & Bob S
Approximate Admit Date: October 6, 2006
We want you to know that our desire to keep as close to a “natural” or unmedicated birth as possible does not stem from any distrust of the medical profession or medicine in general. We both take daily medication for chronic conditions and we are very grateful for the way it enhances our lives. But we prefer not to use it unless needed, and we have several friends and family members who have had positive experiences with unmedicated birth, so our starting assumption is that unless something goes wrong medication will not be needed. Dana would especially like to avoid anything that 1) restricts movement or confines her to bed and 2) causes grogginess. (And anything that has even the slightest chance of sleepiness as a side effect will effect Dana that way, to the extent of putting her straight to sleep or making her a very grumpy zombie, even at a fraction of the normal dosage.) We don’t drink alcohol or use recreational drugs, and Dana very rarely uses even OTC painkillers or cold medicine, so she has no built up tolerance whatsoever. If medication should become necessary, please start with a very small dose.
Note: We realize that circumstances may not cooperate, and we may not be able to stick exactly to this plan. We appreciate your assistance in keeping as close as possible to the intent of these requests, even if we have to compromise on the details. Thank you.
Birth Plan Dana & Bob S – page 2
First Stage Labor
We would prefer no IV, but will accept IV prep with a saline lock.
Intermittent rather than continuous fetal monitoring – Dana will not be tied to belts and monitors but will be free to move around, make use of the shower and tub, etc.
No augmentation of labor such as stripping the membranes, amniotomy, or pitocin.
Do not offer analgesia or anesthesia unless we ask for it. Whining, grumbling, and describing pain in excruciating detail is to be considered “sharing the experience” rather than a request for drugs. If Dana wants medical pain relief she will ask for it explicitly.
Second & Third Stage Labor
Dana’s choice of positions for pushing and delivery. Since our doctor may have limited mobility due to a torn ACL and recent surgery we’ll try to keep it convenient for him too, while making use of upright positions and gravity as much as possible.
No episiotomy.
Bob would like to cut the umbilical cord.
Dana will attempt to breastfeed immediately to assist with uterine contraction/delivery of the placenta. We would prefer pitocin not be given at this time, but will accept it if the doctor deems it necessary.
If stitching of the perineum is necessary, please use a local anesthetic.
After Birth
Baby to “room in” with parents.
Bob will accompany baby on any required trips away from Dana’ room. Please keep these, if any, to the minimum.
Breastfeeding only, absolutely no artificial nipples, bottles, pacifiers, formula, or water to be given.
No circumcision.
Note again: We realize that circumstances may not cooperate, and we may not be able to stick exactly to this plan. We appreciate your assistance in keeping as close as possible to the intent of these requests, even if we have to compromise on the details. Thank you.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
For Birth Plan v.2.0 the first two points under second and thrid stage labor have been changed to:
Dana’s choice of positions for pushing and delivery. The pushing stage is the one part of our previous birth experience that was NOT satisfactory. The lithotomy position is RIGHT OUT!!! Dana WILL NOT be lying on her back, period.
We have been studying natural childbirth methods for breathing and pushing and will be using them. There will be no “hold your breath and push to the count of ten.”
We haven't run this one by the doctor yet, but I'm planning to print those two points on signs to hang above the bed. And on index cards to hand to the nurses if they forget.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I don't do birth plans. But I was telling Boon today I might have to this time because last time they tried to send in a female anesthesiologist and I would prefer not to have to argue things like that while in labor.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I had a hard time arguing with anything once the pushing part started. Which is why the edits.
I'm very happy with the results of having a typed plan. After I called the hospital to give them the heads up that we'd be in that night the nurses took it out of the file and read it, so when we got there they already knew what we wanted and felt like they knew us a little bit.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I like most of your birth plan. Mind if I steal it and modify it some?
(Changes I'd make would be small, like regarding the baby leaving with Jon Boy every time. I suspect he'll be roaming the halls with Lego fairly often and will not be available for that whenever necessary. Also, I might need pitocin again if my water breaks without labor starting naturally within twelve hours or so.)
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Steal away.
John only ever left the room once, for the hearing test and official picture. They do those at midnight, for some bizarre reason, and I made Bob wake up and go along. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
They do the hearing test in the room at my hospital. Of course, I had to leave the room because the idiot technician doing it ignored the big red "NO RUBBING ALCOHOL IN THIS ROOM" sign on my door. Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Thanks so much for posting that, Dana! I can't wait to get that Birth Book so I can see exactly what I want for my birth plan. It'll be at least a week before I get the book.
Posted by School4ever (Member # 5575) on :
KQ- The forms I have had to fill out have said something like "number of pregnancies" and then "number of children living." I have had these questions when I moved and got a new PCP, a new gynacologist, and a new reproductive endocrinologist. I also got it when I had to go to the maternal/fetal specialist because my RE wanted me to know just how high risk my pregnancy would be since I am obese and I want to do IVF. In two months I filled out the same information six times. One pregnancy, one child living. Six times because I went to three different RE's since no one wants do IVF on me because I am obese.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Thanks for posting that, dkw! I loved reading the birth story, and I also love how your birth plan is explicit AND funny.
I also had trouble with the pain scale. The L&D nurse who told me about it told me that 5 was "give me my epidural now." So after my C-section, anytime anyone asked me, I was like, "hmmmm, maybe a two and a half." Yeah, it hurt...enough for me to REALLY want a percocet...but I didn't need an epidural! One nurse tried to tell me that if I was only at a 2.5 I didn't need percocet.
(Dark as night, no need to apologize for ranting. What else are fora...for?)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Huh, I don't think 5 is "give me my epidural now" unless you're like me and want it before you have significant pain-- 5 is what I would characterize as "mild-to-moderate discomfort/pain." If you look at the smileys on the chart they're juuuust starting to look uncomfortable.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
The nurse told me that a certain point on the pain scale (7 or 8) was where you start crying or screaming. I thought that was weird because I really only cry out with pain if it surprises me, and contractions were predictable. I would probably have categorized the pre-epidural contractions as a 7 or 8, but I was silent through them. Different women have different reactions to pain, so I imagine determining a point on the scale for any woman would be difficult.
The other thing that annoyed me was that in the day or two after Lego was born, the nurse kept asking me my pain level. I'd tell her it was one or two, and she'd still give me heavy-duty pain meds. I never opened the bottles of the pain meds they sent home with me (which, of course, they insisted on us buying and thus paying for).
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
That's odd, Brinestone. I was sent home with scrips both times that I didn't fill, but they wanted me to take the scrip so I did. No sweat off my back, although I suppose I did contribute to the deforestation of the planet.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(And I have had such success with just tylenol and advil, I think I'm going to ask my doc to order that I just recieve 2 extra-strength tylenol and 600 mg of ibuprofen every three hours, alternating, unless I tell them I don't need them yet.)
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I hadn't realized that taking pain meds post-partum was common with non-surgical births. I guess the nurses assumed my "don't offer unless I ask first" applied to that too, since no one even mentioned it.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: (And I have had such success with just tylenol and advil, I think I'm going to ask my doc to order that I just recieve 2 extra-strength tylenol and 600 mg of ibuprofen every three hours, alternating, unless I tell them I don't need them yet.)
kq, make sure the option of something slightly stronger (like Tylenol3) is still there. Afterpains, IME, get noticeably worse with each kid.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, I would make sure of that, too, but not Tylenol III-- codeine.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
quote:The other thing that annoys me to no end is when a woman feels like she's failed her childbirth duty by having had a C-section. Believe me, I've seen that happen. Sometimes it can take a lot of effort to comfort the mother and explain to her that having an unplanned C-section because of failure to progress with labor, does NOT make HER any less of a woman, or a mother. The only thing that matters in the end is that she and the baby are both safe and healthy.
This is what happened to me for a while. After 15 hours of labor, I was stuck at 6 cm and Jessica's heart rate was starting to get lower (right at the low end of the range) and my contractions were really strange. When my doctor came in and told me that things were "not optimal" and we should seriously consider a C-section, I was crushed. I bawled. Both my husband and my mom had to reassure me that having a C-section didn't mean I'd failed or that I'd done anything wrong, just that this was the best way to keep us healthy. I still am sad that I didn't get the childbirth experience that I had imagined. I had had an epidural already, but because of problems with vomiting, the anesthesiologist had to pump me full of anti-nausea meds (he said he gave me all 4 he had) and they made me pretty loopy. I wish I could have been more coherent for her birth. The C-section really was for the best though. The cord was right next to her head and it was stuck at a funny angle, so if things had progressed normally, really bad things could have happened. It is nice that VBACs are becoming more common so a vaginal birth is still a possibility for my future.
I didn't need a lot of pain medication afterwards (the nurses kept double checking to make sure that I was ok, since I was spacing out my meds pretty far) and I heal so quickly that we were able to go home after only 2.5 days. I think I only needed my prescriptions for the first day or so home (and not as often as they could have been taken).
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
I definitely get where you're coming from, ludosti. I didn't need any anti-nausea meds, but I was on magnesium sulfate, which made me pretty loopy and detached. In a way it was good, because it made me worry less. As I think back, I had such a great L&D nurse. She kept trying to get me to talk to her...I'm sure I looked worried and sad...but mostly I was worried because we had scheduled for someone to come and clean our house the next day and I didn't have their number to call and cancel. I know it was the meds that made me worry about that instead of worrying about the baby, which was for the best.
I stayed in the hospital for all four days--no way they would have discharged me early, with the bp problems I was still having. In fact, they almost didn't let me go when it was time because my bp was 160/107. My husband yelled at the poor nurse, who was only trying to do her job. It was horrible, though. I was completely torn between not wanting to leave my baby in the hospital, and not wanting to stay there myself one more day. (I was convinced that just being there was part of my bp problem, and i was right...my readings at home were still high, but not nearly THAT high.)
Anyway, I kept taking percocet until Nathaniel came home. Until he actually came home, I was still in pain because I was definitely pushing myself too hard. I was pumping every 3 hours, including at night, and making at least 1, often 2, trips to the hospital every day (it was about 30 minutes away from our house), still trying to get things ready for him, seeing all kinds of doctors to try to get my bp under control...essentially not taking care of myself. And I think it was a hormone/ stress thing, too. The day he came home, suddenly I didn't really need anything at all, except for advil in the AM and PM. Yay baby. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote: I know it was the meds that made me worry about that instead of worrying about the baby, which was for the best.
Well, that or displacement. I have found myself prone to displacement once in a while, and really that is not always a bad thing if it helps you get through the situation. Then later you feel the worry you had displaced, after it is safe, and realize what a bullet you dodged!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I'm surprised your bp wasn't higher just from the stress of worrying about your baby. I know they sometimes had to take mine more than once, when I was worried (and my bp is always great). I can't imagine how hard it would be to go home without your baby! No wonder your pain level decreased when he came home.
That's another odd thing - my mom (who was watching the monitors) said that for the last hour or so I was in labor, Jessica's heart rate would drop every time the blood pressure cuff inflated.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: Oh, I would make sure of that, too, but not Tylenol III-- codeine.
Yes, I know what's in it. Not sure if you're saying that's off-limits for a nursing mom (my OB and pediatrician would disagree with you if you were) or something you in particular react to.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
No, I've started having bad reactions to codeine-- as I mentioned on the previous page.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
Some women convert codeine to morphine which goes through the breastmilk and can be very bad, esp if people don't realize that is what is happening. It is a pretty rare response to codeine though.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I seem to be at the "sensitivity" stage rather than the "allergy" stage. However, I can give you a count in the double digits of the things I'm allergic to that started as sensitivities. So I've decided it's best to forgo codeine.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I just drank some horchata, and the baby is dancing all around, making my tummy visibly jump. *giggles* I love when they do that, though it feels weird!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: No, I've started having bad reactions to codeine-- as I mentioned on the previous page.
Sorry, the last page was a long time ago. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, I know how that is. Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Nathaniel would dance in my belly when my husband played Chopin waltzes. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Emma used to like "We Thank Thee, O God, For a Prophet", bagpipe music, Flaco Jimenez, and the Friends theme song (I watched a lot while I was pregnant with her-- Netflix.) Bridey just danced to everything. This one seems to have no preferences as of yet, but sleeps a lot more than the other two.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I didn't do a birthing plan with my first and probably won't again. My husband is completely on board with me on all things that are important to us and is not at all afraid to be my advocate or speak his mind. He ran interference for me a lot with our son and he insisted upon staying with Drake at all times when he was not in the room with me. He annoyed the nurses, but too bad.
Besides, my birthing plan would be pretty simple. I'm all for the epidural and don't can't think of anything super important when it comes to the birth except getting the baby out safely. Afterwards, breastfeeding is important to me but I feel confident that I or my husband can make sure there are no problems there.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Okay, this is my birth plan so far (this is a very rough draft.) Notes as to why I included something are in italics.
________________________________________________
I wish to be induced as soon as my doctor says I am physically ready and I start becoming uncomfortable because of the frequency of contractions and the size of the baby. If this doesn't happen, I want to go into labor on my own, but I do not want to go past my due date. If I hit my due date and have not gone into labor or begun having discomfort from frequent, regular contractions, I wish to be induced as soon as possible. (I have a history of very big babies-- well, long, not heavy. I also have been induced after contractions became painful and regular-- usually every ten minutes or closer-- and the first time they went on for 2 weeks before they induced me. I don't want that again.)
I want to be induced with pitocin, I do not want any drugs to be used to ripen my cervix. I do not wish to be induced before my cervix is thinning and dilating on its own.
There must be absolutely no rubbing alcohol anywhere in the room with me, at any time. (I don't want an asthma attack and allergic reaction while I'm in labor.) A bottle of betadine or betadine swabs should be kept on hand for purposes rubbing alcohol is customarily used for, a notation should be made on my chart, and a sign placed on my door. Similarly, other allergies should be kept track of, and no allergens introduced into my environment at any time.
I want an epidural as soon as my contractions are regulated by the pitocin, before I feel any pain. It is extremely important that the anesthesiologist is MALE, and that he is aware of my allergies.
No female doctors are to be in my room at any time during labor. (It's not the time for a panic attack.)
I do not want my cervix checked for dilation on a regular schedule after I have the epidural; I will call for a nurse when I wish to be checked.
Once the epidural is working, it is okay to break my water. (This usually relieves significant discomfort for me. It is also okay to insert a catheter at this point. I do not want a catheter before I have an epidural.
I do not want continuous monitoring of my blood pressure, if possible. Intermittent monitoring is okay, but I do not want to wear the cuff the whole time.
Once I am fully dilated, and the team is assembled, I want to push when I am ready, not be told when to push. I want my husband to count while I push, not doctors or nurses. I do not want anyone else to talk while I am pushing, if something needs to be said, it can wait until after I am done with that contraction.
I prefer not to have an episiotomy, and am willing to risk a first to second degree tear to avoid one, but will accept one if absolutely necessary. Perineal massage to reduce tears would be appreciated if necessary and appropriate.
When the baby is born, I would like her placed on my chest to look at her as soon as possible, unless she is not breathing well or I am bleeding too heavily and require intervention. {Sadly, this is one part I'm almost resigned to not happening; both those things have happened with both my prior births.) If intervention is required for either of us on either of these counts, or for some other reason, I want to be informed of exactly what is happening, as it is happening, in clear, concise terms.
If I bleed heavily during and after delivery, I want to immediately receive more pitocin, while the epidural is still in effect, as well as uterine massage, to reduce the severity of the bleeding and help the uterus contract.
I want to breastfeed the baby as soon as possible.
I do not want to receive any pain medications unless the following unless I specifically ask: 2 extra-strength Tylenol and 600 mg ibuprofen, every three hours, alternating, unless I state that I do not need the next dose at that time, in which case it should be given when I ask for it. I do not want to be offered anything stronger, although I'm okay with a prescription being on hand, unless I ask for it. I should not be offered or given codeine or anything containing codeine or similar drugs, as I have developed a sensitivity to it. A note of this should also be displayed prominently in my chart and nurses made aware of it.
My husband will accompany the baby to the nursery for the newborn screening test and any other procedures that must be done there. I prefer all weighing, measuring, etc. to be done in my room. I do not want my baby to receive any vaccinations while in the hospital. She will receive them at her two-week check-up instead. Rubbing alcohol should not be used on the baby, even when she is not in my presence. Please use betadine instead.
A sign should be placed on my door informing all personnel of my rubbing alcohol allergy. NO ONE is to bring rubbing alcohol, or products containing it, into my room for any reason, including the hearing test. Last time I was in this hospital the lady doing the hearing test ignored the sign and I had to leave the room. Idiot lady. If it says "NO RUBBING ALCOHOL IN THIS ROOM" in red on the door, wouldn't you think twice about opening up an alcohol swab to do the hearing test? I would.
Baby will be rooming-in with me but I may want a break. If I take her to the nursery while I shower or rest, I do not want to be called to come get her. While I will be breastfeeding, she may be given formula if she becomes hungry while she is in the nursery. I will get her when I am ready.
I do not want baby to be given a Soothie pacifier. I will supply a pacifier which may be kept in her bassinet and given to her as needed in the nursery.
If the baby is jaundiced (both my previous girls were-- I'm type O+, Jeff and the girls are A+, and it REALLY SHOWS because they're born really pale, so it looks worse than it is) I do not wish to be told repeatedly that I should have her in the sunlight. I know that. I also do not wish to be questioned repeatedly about which position the baby is sleeping in. Once is enough.
No female doctor is to examine me, at any time.
If I inform the nurses that a particular pediatrician is not to attend my child again, I expect this advice to be strictly followed. That pediatrician should not enter my room or examine my child in the nursery. (I haven't got to this point yet but I almost did last time, and I want them prepared for the possibility.)
If I want to consult a lactation consultant, I will ask for one. I do not want to be offered one otherwise.
_______________________________________________
And I think that's it.
As you can see, there's a lot more about before labor and after the baby's born, because that's when I've had the most problems... And really most of them weren't that big. But I'd like to avoid ANY. I think my requests (demands? ) are reasonable, and within the scope of the hospital's policies and capabilities.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I realize also that that's probably very far from the typical birth plan. But hey, it's what I want/need, and I'm a girl who knows what I want.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
ketchupqueen: It does sound like you know what you want! It's definitely all reasonable but as you put together your final draft, you may want to try a format like dkw...it's so easy to read in short, clear bullets separated by sections. You may also want to put the most important things at the top. (Such as no female docs)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, the doctor already knows that.
I'm thinking of making a handout for the nurses, though.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I called the hospital to schedule a time I could come to see the nursery, maternity ward, etc. They told me they do a tour once a month and the next one is in mid-February. I'm not too happy about that, because I think it's too close to my due date (about 2 or 3 weeks prior).
I'm wondering if it would be out of line to request a special tour. I had been checking their website and the fact that the tour is once a month was not mentioned--otherwise, I would have tried to go to the one in January.
I asked about how they feel about birthing plans, and the lady told me to try to keep it to 5 main points. I got the impression, although she didn't say it and was very polite, that they don't like them very much.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by Katarain: I asked about how they feel about birthing plans, and the lady told me to try to keep it to 5 main points. I got the impression, although she didn't say it and was very polite, that they don't like them very much.
I've heard nurses say they just plain ignore it. I'm not sure if they think the woman who use them are too picky, too paranoid, or something else but I wasn't impressed by the attitude. I can understand the need to keep it as short and simple as possible, though. Many hospitals have lots of patients and if they all come in with 3-page birthing plans written in paragraph form there's no way they're going to read any of it, let alone remember it.
I guess that's part of why I'd rather have my husband speak up for me on the few things I think are important. He can put my wishes in their face if need be. A piece of paper is more passive.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
That's why I haven't had them before-- I trust my husband to stand up for what we/I want/need, and am capable of doing it myself once I'm not in labor, will discuss all this with my doctor before hand, and I was also under the impression that birth plans often just get ignored.
I like the idea of having printed index cards with a few relevant objections to standard practice (like my "no female doctors" and "no rubbing alcohol") to hand to everyone who comes in, though.
Also making a custom card for my baby's bassinet with special instructions for the nursery-- no vax, pacifier I supply only, formula okay only if I have left baby in the nursery for a break, and no freakin' rubbing alcohol.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Does anyone else get more insecure while pregnant? I don't know what it is, but it's happened both times now. I wonder how much of it is hormonal and how much of it is body-image-related.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by Brinestone: Does anyone else get more insecure while pregnant? I don't know what it is, but it's happened both times now. I wonder how much of it is hormonal and how much of it is body-image-related.
I'm pretty insecure anyway, especially about my body, so it's hard to tell!
Although, now that I think about it, I burst into tears in the middle of a clothing store when I was pregnant with my son and none of the maternity clothes would fit. I don't usually do that so publicly...hmmmm...so maybe yes.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I get more insecure about some things. Generally I am more secure about my body when I'm pregnant than when I'm not, though.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I don't think I get insecure, but I definitely get needy. I crave hugs and backrubs and footrubs and being snuggled.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I get needy big-time, too. Which is rough right now because it's tax season and KPC is a tax accountant. Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
For me it's not just insecurity about my body. It's that when I'm pregnant, I suddenly need to know that everyone, especially my husband, still loves me and loves being around me. I tend to assume people don't for some reason when I'm pregnant. It's weird. I mean, I'm a bit insecure all the time, but I definitely notice that I can't take any kind of rejection or criticism without bursting into tears. That's not like me.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I feel that way sometimes, too, Brinestone. In particular I remember one day when I was pregnant with Bridey, and Emma was having a fit, and she threw herself on the floor and screamed, "You a bad, BAD MOMMY! I NO LOVE YOU!" Normally this would not phase me; I know it's a not-yet-two-year-old's way of saying the most hurtful thing she can to get my attention because she feels she's been wronged and hurt. But at the time, I burst into tears and ran to my bed. (She eventually calmed down, came and laid by me, and stroked my hair and hugged and kissed me, which made me feel better.)
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
I felt much more secure while pregnant. Needy, sure, but I felt surrounded by everyone's approval since I'd finally decided to reproduce. And I felt more secure about my body, too. I really liked how I looked pregnant.
Nathaniel has a blog! Link Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
I used to like how I looked pregnant...and then I hit about 8.5 months, and I no longer looked cute. Now, I just feel gigantic and ugly.
I'm also somewhat insecure normally, and I think I definitely needed reassuring from Paul a lot more often since I've been pregnant. I'm surprised he doesn't get annoyed! He's very patient with me.
As far as my pregnancy goes...I'm nearing the point where I'll try anything to get labor started. The only thing holding me back is that my doctor is out of town until Sunday. I hit 39 weeks tomorrow. I had no idea how painful the last little bit of pregnancy would be!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*groans in sympathy for hansenj*
I love the way I feel about my body when I'm pregnant, though. Even when I'm huge and waddly, my body image is better than it ever is when I'm not pregnant.
Posted by DeathofBees (Member # 3862) on :
quote:Originally posted by Christine:
quote:Originally posted by Katarain: I asked about how they feel about birthing plans, and the lady told me to try to keep it to 5 main points. I got the impression, although she didn't say it and was very polite, that they don't like them very much.
I've heard nurses say they just plain ignore it. I'm not sure if they think the woman who use them are too picky, too paranoid, or something else but I wasn't impressed by the attitude. I can understand the need to keep it as short and simple as possible, though. Many hospitals have lots of patients and if they all come in with 3-page birthing plans written in paragraph form there's no way they're going to read any of it, let alone remember it.
I guess that's part of why I'd rather have my husband speak up for me on the few things I think are important. He can put my wishes in their face if need be. A piece of paper is more passive.
My birth plan was basically ignored by the hospital, but I had a doula on hand, and that REALLY helped. My husband would have just let the staff do whatever they wanted, but Emily stood up for every decision I made.
When the L&D nurse told me to put on a gown and I flatly told her "no" Emily graciously explained my preference for my own clothes, especially since I was concerned with staying warm. I got very chilled during Mini-Bee's birth, and it made me very tense and increased the sensation of pain for me, so I really wanted to avoid getting chilled during BeeBoy's birth.
When the nurse tried to get me to give her a urine sample and I started to feel panicky, Emily whispered to me to just forget about it and keep concentrating on relaxing. I never did get that sample for her, but Emily was right. It didn't matter a whit.
When the nurse wanted to put a fetal heart monitor on me and I told her point blank that I would not sit or lie down on the bed, Emily suggested having me sit on my birthing ball and rock to keep me relaxed.
My doula was my saving grace. We became really good friends, too.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
I felt more insecure about my body because people didn't realize I was pregnant (I was 9 months and people were surprised I was pregnant). Since I have fought my weight for a while, I felt like people were looking at me and thinking, oh, well, I guess she is failing at her diet. If I ate a larger portion at lunch, I thought people were using it as confirmation that I had no self discipline.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by scholar: I felt more insecure about my body because people didn't realize I was pregnant (I was 9 months and people were surprised I was pregnant). Since I have fought my weight for a while, I felt like people were looking at me and thinking, oh, well, I guess she is failing at her diet.
Oooh, been there.
One particularly charming acquaintance actually told me when my daughter was two weeks old that she hadn't realized I was pregnant and just thought I'd put on some weight.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*winces*
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Yeah, it's probably a good thing I was both shocked and exhausted enough that I didn't react by slapping her. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Slapping? She should consider herself lucky you don't own a bazooka. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
True. Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
When I walk or turn over in bed, I've been having bad pain on the very top of the inside of my left leg. The pain is much less (perhaps almost gone) in my right leg. It kinda feels like maybe I pulled a tendon or ligament. It's worse when I try to walk after sitting for a longer period of time. It gets slightly better as I continue walking, but it still hurts quite a bit. It's very sharp and painful when I first start walking.
This doesn't feel pregnancy related, but I suppose it could be--I certainly don't know everything about pregnancy-related ailments.
Any ideas?
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Okay, I found this through a google search. The pain the first poster describes seems to be exactly like mine.
The last post is freaking me out. A blood clot? WHAT?!
ETA: Guess it would be good if I included the link:
I have pain that sounds just like what you're describing except on the other side. It's been quite severe today. *ouch!* At the prenatal class I took, they said pain like that could be caused by the ligament that attaches to the uterus being pulled tight towards the end of pregnancy. (It's at the very very top of the leg, right?) I'd ask your doctor if it's worrying you.
I had my 39 week appointment today. The doctor said I'm 3 cm. dilated and 80% effaced. This is up about 1.5 cm from last week, so I guess that's progress. I also gained four pounds this week, which is more than I think I've gained in any single week of my pregnancy up to this point. Most alarming, however, is that my uterus is suddenly measuring 41 cm. 41!!! Last week it was still 37. I wonder whether the baby was just all stretched out this week or if he had a huge growth spurt. I sure hope he's not some giganto-baby!
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
My pain usually occurs after I've been laying (lying?) down for a while, but it's not in my thigh. Sorry if it's TMI, but it feels like my crotch is being simultaneously pulled apart in six directions and stabbed repeatedly with a many-pronged icepick. I mean, like the pubic bone. Yeesh. Other than that and the lovely hemorrhoids, I'm feeling pretty great this time.
hansenj - I also gained about 4 lbs this week. I think it's completely normal, especially when you consider the hard work your body is gearing up for. I just figure that, besides the baby fat, I'm probably retaining some water to help stave off dehydration during labor. As far as measuring big, it could just be how the baby was laying. If the butt was poking out or something, you'd measure bigger. I wouldn't worry, especially if your doctor isn't.
We're due pretty close together, aren't we? Feb 1 is the date my OB corrected to.
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Oh wow! We are close together! My official due date is Jan. 30.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Does that mean we're racing? You can go first. Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
That's funny. We'll have to see what happens!
Posted by DeathofBees (Member # 3862) on :
The sharp leg pain you describe sounds like the charlie horses I got frequently during both my pregnancies. They happened lots in the calves of my legs, but sometimes they were in those groin muscles. I felt a few of them during contractions when I was in labor with BeeBoy, as well. The first time I talked to my midwife about them, she recommended eating more potato skins (I did, and I never noticed it helping at all).
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I had my appt. today, and I had gained exactly 0 lbs. since last month. Which is good-- I had been gaining a little faster than I probably should have and had started eating a little more healthily and "nutrient-densely" and so I probably burned off some of that fat and put it toward the baby. Plus I cheated and slipped my shoes off this time.
I also had my GTT. (The doc addressed my concerns and let me do it today-- pulled strings with the lab so I could get in-- and I had come fasting, "just in case." As I told my doctor, I have done this before.) Then I came home and ate because by that time I was starving! Bridey was very good in the dr. office and while I waited in line to get my prescription refilled at the pharmacy, so I let her get a baby in a backpack, which she adores. It came with a bottle, brush, comb, bear and elephant. She played a little with the animals, isn't too interested in the bottle (except when she pretends it's some kind of hair product and dabs and spritzes the baby's hair) but loves combing and brushing the hair. And it entertained her while I got my blood drawn. Mostly. (She was mad I didn't let her sit in my lap while they drew it.)
I have now gone to every two week appointments. My mom is not going to have a free day off until this babe is born, I'm afraid.
I got/get sharp leg pains like that all the time round about the second trimester, all the way through. I suggest a chiropractor or prenatal massage therapist, if you can get to one or the other.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: I suggest a chiropractor or prenatal massage therapist, if you can get to one or the other.
Definitely. And many insurance carriers will (partially) cover it.
Some of those pains sound like sciatica (especially Boon's), some like round-ligament pain, and some just general pregnancy discomforts. But massage/adjustments can help with all of the above.
And while I doubt you have a blood clot, Kata, it's always a good idea to mention new symptoms, especially painful ones, to your doctor.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I have an appointment with a chiropractor (covered by my insurance) next week. I'm hoping she'll be able to help.
I was happy to hear that so many other pregnant women have pain exactly like mine, and it does feel like a ligament. I didn't know there was one there connected to the uterus. Makes sense to me!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Good luck with the chiropractor. The one I went to made a huge difference with my sciatica -- I hope you have similarly positive results.
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
My cousin's wife is 4 months pregnant. She was scared when she found out because she was in and out of the hospital for pre-term labor, put on bed rest and delivered 6 weeks early with her first baby. She definitely did not plan on getting pregnant right now; she wasn't ready. She moved to LA since her last pregnancy, so she has a new doctor. Her doctor has been telling her that he'll probablysend her to a specialist sometime and only now did the blood work and pap smear stuff that usually gets done at my first appointment. Needless to say, she hasn't been happy with her doctor.
She found a new doctor that is also a specialist and had an appointment this week. She's already 1 cm dilated and had her cervix stitched up today. She been ordered on bed rest for the remaining 5 month of pregnancy and the doctor told her she can't take care of her 2 1/2 year old daughter.
I can't even imagine how she's feeling right now. My aunt is going to stay with her for a month, but she's leaving on a mission and can't stay longer. Her mom said she'd take the 2 1/2 year old, but in Utah. My cousin and wife don't want to be away from their daughter for 5 months! I'm really hoping she had a good Relief Society to help her through this.
In any case, prayers and good wishes would be welcomed and appreciated. Thanks!
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Dang, that's awful. I sure hope the RS comes through. This is the sort of thing RS is for, after all.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, that's really rough. I know my RS has stepped up in similar situations, hopefully hers will do the same.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I just thought of something else-- I know someone who was in a similar situation-- no close family, hospital bed rest, had small children at home-- and her insurance company paid for $100/week in child care expenses. I think she found someone in the ward who was willing able to take her children during the day for that amount of money, and the RS also helped with two or three meals a week and occasional cleaning so it didn't ALL fall on her husband.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Pregnancy made me feel remarkably unattractive, but people always told me that I looked really good (I've always struggled with body-image issues anyway, so I guess my not feeling good combined with that to make me think I looked awful). I still feel pretty unattractive (I feel like I'm constantly covered in some sort of body fluid) but I look pretty good when I actually manage to shower and get dressed. I was thrilled to already be down 22 lbs at only 4 weeks post-partum. Now if I just wasn't a fluid covered zombie, I'd feel pretty great.
Kat - I hope the pains will resolve themselves quickly! I know my round ligament pain sometimes extended down the insides of my legs (near my groin), especially if I laid with my legs straight.
kq - Yay for getting your GTT done with little rigamorale!
div - Oh dear! I hope her ward will be able to help her through the next few months!! I know how hard that kind of situation can be. When I was a teenager, I worked for a woman who was on bedrest. I'd go over after school (just before her other kids got home) and help them/prepare dinner/housekeeping/etc. until her husband got home.
I still can't imagine how anyone takes care of a newborn with other kids. I have my mom come over during the day to help me with Jess, and I still feel really overwhelmed. I'm starting to get more used to being a mom, but it's still a challenge. That probably never changes though, does it? At least I've been healing really well (IMO) from the c-section (though I've never had surgery before, so what do I know). I'm so blessed to have my mom here in town to help me and to have a really good baby. Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
My mom has been coming to help a lot, too--she lives about 90 minutes away, so she's been coming down here for a few days a week, although I think that's about to stop. When she comes, she doesn't actually do much baby care (except when she takes care of him while I get out of the house)--she cooks and cleans and does laundry. I'm getting really spoiled!
That really is difficult to go on bed rest so soon, and with a toddler already! I know that my 10 days of bed rest was hard enough, with no other kids to deal with. My prayers are with her...update us if you get a chance.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Owwwwwww!
I woke up today sore all over, with a cough to boot, and every time I cough, I have EXTREME ligament pain in my lower right (and sometimes left, too) abdomen. I have to seriously splint or support my tummy when I'm about to cough, or it hurts like the dickens. Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
(KQ)
Remind me...how far along are you? I know I had some wicked round ligament pain at around 20 weeks or so.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
26 weeks, 4 days.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I went shopping for maternity clothes again this weekend. It's always so depressing. I tried Target this time. I am pretty sure I have now hit every store in the area and all I've come up with are 3 pairs of black sweat pants. All I want are some jeans. Or some slacks. It's a really good thing I work at home because I feel like I'm wearing pajamas and I just don't know what I'd do if I had to go into an office. I guess wear skirts. I've had some moderate luck with skirts.
I think part of the problem is that I've gained a ton of weight both during and just before this pregnancy and a lot of it is in my legs. At 23 weeks, I have now gained 17 lbs and that doesn't count the 10 pounds I gained feeling sorry for myself back in August. (Is there an emotional eaters anonymous somewhere?)
All in all, I feel pretty fat. At least my doctor hasn't harassed me about it..yet. We'll see what he thinks on Thursday when I'm up another 7 lbs in 4 weeks.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I find JC Penney's pants are the only ones that don't have legs waaay to skinny for me.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Does anyone else get the saggy butt thing with maternity pants because they just won't stay up on your stomach no matter how tight you buy them? I hate saggy butt.
Christine, can you remind me of your due date? Mine is May 31, so I think we're really close.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I had lots of problems with my maternity pants just plain not staying up (when you have no waist, there's no natural place for the pants to sit). I finally gave up and wore a pair of suspenders on my pants (under my shirts).
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
My maternity pants only fall down when I'm wearing the slidy garments (which, unfortunately, is all the maternity garments.) I've found tucking a shirt or camisole into them helps them stay up-- something better to grip. (Since I'm often wearing camisoles anyway since the maternity shirts now are usually cut SO low in the neck, it's not hard to just tuck the cami in.)
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by Brinestone: Does anyone else get the saggy butt thing with maternity pants because they just won't stay up on your stomach no matter how tight you buy them? I hate saggy butt.
Christine, can you remind me of your due date? Mine is May 31, so I think we're really close.
I'm officially going with May 25th, because that was the date we got at our early u/s, but I know when I conceived/ovulated and that would push it back to the 27th and the 20-week u/s said June 1st.
Looks like we may be delivering at the same time!
As for pants not staying up...that's the biggest reason I simply haven't bought them. When I find the ones that fit my legs the belly is way too big. Maybe I should try the suspender idea or something. Feels kind of weird, though, and some of them aren't just a little bit, they're tents! I don't think I'll grow into them at 9 months.
I hate saggy butt, too!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Maybe part of it is that my BUTT is big. Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
I'm still wearing my maternity pants! I'm gonna have to be dragged kicking and screaming back to regular waistbands.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
So far, I've had the best luck with fit if I buy the stretchy pants without panels. Just over the tummy coverage with no extra seams. Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I have sagging problems with maternity pantyhose. The regular ones start to feel too tight before my tummy is big enough to hold the maternity ones up.
Posted by DeathofBees (Member # 3862) on :
I don't know which are worse: too-big, over-the-belly maternity pants with a belly panel in a different color (WHY? WHYYYYYYYY??) or trendy, under-the-belly low-rise maternity pants that you have to yank up after you've been sitting or squatting and end up displaying your panties for the world to see.
What I love are empire-waist maternity tops in pretty patterns and comfy skirts in stretchy fabrics, although both times I was pregnant in the summer so I never had to deal with maternity pantyhose. So glad.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
<-- has to wear pantyhose year round.
The maternity kind are surprisingly comfortable, once your tummy is big enough to keep the crotch from slipping down to your knees.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I think in my last month I didn't have to use the suspenders with the one pair of pants I still wore (by then I was so uncomfortable, I pretty much wore the same dress every time I left the house).
I'm so glad I didn't have to try maternity pantyhose. The crotch in pantyhose always slips down to my knees anyway, so I can't imagine the horror of trying it with a pregnant belly.
Anyone heard from hansenj? She's about ready to go anytime now, right?
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Still here. I have my 40-week appointment (due date's tomorrow!) in a half hour though, so I'll update later.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I wear knee-highs until the maternity pantyhose fit right. I just ordered some more-- the knee-highs are finally becoming too uncomfortable, and my previously-worn maternity pantyhose are among the casualties of my Maternity-Clothes-Which-KPC-Lost-And-Is-Still-In-Trouble-For-Losing (along with my favorite pair of all-over stretch pants and most of my maternity dresses. )
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Well, I'm back from my appointment. Everything still looks good, and despite the fact that I feel puffy all over and gained two more pounds, my blood pressure is staying low. I'm 3+ cm dilated and 80% effaced. Doctor says that conditions are highly favorable if we wanted to induce. She stripped my membranes (now that's a violent procedure!), so we'll see if anything comes of that. Otherwise, my husband and I decided to schedule induction for Friday.
I have mixed feelings about the possibility (probability?) of being induced. I definitely feel ready to not be pregnant anymore. There's no question about that. I'm just struggling because I feel like the baby will come when he's ready. We decided to go ahead and schedule it for this Friday because I've been very worn out in these last couple days and hurting quite a bit. Also (and more importantly), the doctor told us that since my body is progressing on its own the chances of me needing a c-section is only minutely bigger if I were induced than if I went into labor naturally. Do any of you have experience with being induced?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*raises hand*
I've been induced twice! Both times after I was contracting, and had started dilating and effacing at least a bit (more the first than the second time-- the first time I was close to where you are at-- 70-80% and 3+ cm.)
I was induced with pitocin only, since my cervix was already ripe. First time, it was awful until I got the epidural (pitocin contractions are really rough-- especially when they put you on 14 units-- and I don't progress if I'm in pain.) Then it whipped right along. Second time I got an EARLY epidural (as soon as my contractions were regular, before they started hurting) and it was perfect. I'm planning on doing it again this time if the same thing happens (the every ten minutes, constant contractions start-- happened each time before, the first time for two weeks.) I'd much rather be induced than suffer through three weeks of contractions-- but that's just me. Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
That's good. I like hearing positive stories.
I just talked to my visiting teacher who was induced with both of her girls, and she said she's glad she did it as well. She was allowed to get the epidural as soon as she wanted, which she said was the best part.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I hated being induced w/ #1, and fought it (successfully) with #2 and #3. I'd much rather be able to get out of bed and move around, and you can't do that at all while on pitocin.
#3 was two weeks late (after we thought she was going to be 2-3 weeks early), and I was exceedingly uncomfortable for the last 6 weeks. I'd still go through that again in preference to being induced -- unless the induction were medically necessary, of course.
Clearly, YMMV. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Really, if you're that ready to go and the baby is in a good position and everything, I don't think an induction raises your risk of c-section that much (especially if you don't have a section-happy doc.) I think it's more the people who have to have all kinds of stuff to ripen the cervix and all that are more likely to go to c-section from the induction. So it doesn't scare me, and I'm always kinda happy to know exactly WHEN it's going to happen, KWIM? You can plan better and stuff (well, we especially have to have childcare lined up and it's much easier when we know what day I'll be induced. I've already been talking dates with my mom, in fact!)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(I just looked at my ticker on another site and realized I'm under the 100 day mark! I have only 93 days left until my due date!)
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I was almost induced with my son, but that morning I started real labor. They actually put the IV on me but turned off the pitocin (sp?) drip after half an hour or so. So I'm probably not the best induction story.
Everything went good, though. I got the epi at the same time and enjoyed a leisurely day of chatting with my husband, playing cards, and reading Harry Potter.
I don't plan to try induction again this time. Last time, I think I pushed myself into it for all the wrong reasons. Unless there's a good reason, I'd rather wait until my baby is ready.
On the other hand, difficulties finding a baby-sitter may have to be that good reason, but that's a story for another time...
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
You probably don't want to hear my induction story, since things didn't work well (though I'd be happy to share it if you'd like). However the c-section would most likely have been necessary anyway, even if I'd gone into labor on my own. You're already further along than when I was when they induced me, so hopefully things will get started on their own for you!
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Thanks for the input/stories! I keep waffling back and forth about wanting to cancel my appointment and wanting to keep it.
ludosti - Yeah, I think at this point if I end up having to get a c-section it would happen either way. That's part of what made me decide to schedule the induction.
I'm also worried about my baby getting too huge to deliver vaginally. Anyone have any experience with that? My doctor has not told me anything about how big she thinks the baby is. This is probably due to the fact that my insurance only covers one ultrasound (at 20 wks), so she has no real way of knowing. I have no idea if my fears are founded or not. I tried to eat healthier than I normally do during my pregnancy, but I have not been very successful. I have a huge and insatiable sweet tooth. I didn't get gestational diabetes, but my test was right on the brink. And the longer he stays in there the bigger he gets!
Posted by sarcasticmuppet (Member # 5035) on :
Jennie, since I know you frequent this thread, I'm gonna bug you -- do you happen to still have my firefly DVDs? I lent them to you over the summer but I moved to a different place since I last saw you. Congratulations on the upcoming baby! I'll keep you in my thoughts.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
From what I've read, induction of labor because the baby is suspected to be large is not a good idea. I would do some research on this if you're really concerned, but this article on about.com:
suggests that when labor is induced for this reason, the risk of c-section is higher.
It also indicates something I already knew -- that we suck at figuring out how big babies are even with an u/s. A friend of mine recently had a baby and was high risk so got many u/s -- they all said the baby would be 8 going on 9 lbs. She'd never had a baby over 7 lbs so she thought this was odd. Turned out, the baby was 6 lbs and change like her other three! She carries HUGE. I mean, HUGE. She looked like she was carrying triplet or something. But that doesn't mean the baby is big, either.
Just some things to think about!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
My babies measure large, but more in length-- they're not tiny in weight, but Bridey was born more than 2 weeks before my due date and was 21.5 inches long. I wouldn't induce JUST because the baby was big (and I wouldn't have a c-section just for a big baby, either-- I have a friend who has delivered several 10+ lb. babies vaginally, and my husband and his sibs were all 9 or 10 lbs. and all born vaginally.) I induce because my body is ready but I already know I don't progress well until I get that epidural-- and I'd rather just get it over with once it starts.
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Ashley! I'm such a jerk! Yes, I have your DVDs! We watched them (and LOVED them) over the summer, and I just keep forgetting to get in touch with you. I still check galacticcactus pretty regularly, so can you PM me your new address? I still have your phone number in my inbox there, so I'll try VERY hard to call you as soon as I can (hopefully tonight). I'm making dinner and then going visiting teaching now, but I'll tell Paul to remind me to call when I get home. I'm SO SO sorry!
Christine - Yeah, I've heard and read those same things. It's so hard not to think I'm carrying a giant in there! The doctor recommended induction for me simply because the conditions are favorable for it. She hasn't ever said anything about the baby being big.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Best wishes, hansenj!! I can completely understand being torn about the decision to induce. Just keep kq's experiences in mind...like you said, positive stories help.
quote:we suck at figuring out how big babies are even with an u/s
On the other hand...I had an u/s on 12/4/07 that said my baby was 5 lbs 1 oz., and at birth on 12/7, he was 5lbs 0 oz. So maybe it depends on the technician or the baby, who knows. I was impressed by how accurate it was.
Nathaniel is nursing like crrrrrrazy today. I just hope it helps him sleep tonight...
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
My doctor's prediction of baby weight was right on the money for #1 and #2, and WAYYYY off for #3. Same doctor, same ultrasound machine.
Some kids like to cultivate an air of mystery. Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I was trying to remember last night, but I'm pretty sure they were a good pound off on my son on our last u/s (which I kept getting because my belly wasn't cooperating with the measuring tape...I carry small) and they said he'd be seven and a half pounds. He was only 6 lb 5 oz.
When I got my 20-week u/s this time, the technician was just going on and on about how the computer was telling her my due date was June 1st instead of May 25th like I told her when I came in. I'm sitting there trying to look as bored as possible by the information (which I assure you I was) but she kept trying to freak me out. She went on about it for 10 minutes. I think she was nuts.
Different technicians really do make a difference with u/s I think.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
*counts on fingers*
So a big one-week difference, huh? I'm surprised you weren't freaked...
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Freaked doesn't even begin to describe how I felt. Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
I totally understand the pregnancy waddle now. I had seen many women do it, but I didn't really understand WHY.
It's the leg/joint/pelvic/ligament/etc. pain! The pain!!
My husband has compared me to a penguin.
An adorable penguin, I'm sure.
In related news, the chiropractor seems to be helping somewhat, but no miracles yet. I seem to be doing better, or at least coping better.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Thinking of hansenj today...
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Katarain: In related news, the chiropractor seems to be helping somewhat, but no miracles yet. I seem to be doing better, or at least coping better.
Miracles are probably too much to ask until you evict the tenant. But I'm glad it's helping!
And many women who manage to avoid significant pregnancy pain still waddle. It's the relaxin effect.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
I think it's more the cantaloupe-in-the-crotch effect.
Still here, still pregnant. I actually called the midwife last night though.
Here's your TMI warning for the rest of this post.
Friday afternoon the "vaginal snot" took on a pinkish tinge. That evening I had explosive baby-poo yellow-brown-green diarrhea and contractions that were no different than they had been for two weeks.
Yesterday evening I was on the phone with KQ when the contractions started getting more and more crampy down low, and I couldn't keep up the conversation during them. I hung up with her after promising to call the midwife. Went to the bathroom, where I lost a nickel sized wad of plug. Climbed into the bathtub, thinking that would probably fizzle them back out. No dice, still 2 1/2 to 6 minutes apart.
Called husband, called midwife. She sent the doula/midwife-in-training over to check me out. She actually stayed a while and checked me twice about 2 hours apart, and my cervix never changed from about 2cm, 50% and very soft...
So, maybe it'll be very soon, and maybe it won't. Posted by Leafygreen (Member # 11015) on :
Wow, I love this thread. Vaginal snot, muccus plugs...just wow. I told my husband I was thinking about eating my placenta and he about threw up.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Eeeeeew, placenta eating is icky. (The rest of it doesn't bother me a bit. )
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Boon: I think it's more the cantaloupe-in-the-crotch effect.
That too -- but many women have a distinctive waddle much earlier than that.
I'm amazed with all those symptoms that you're not in hard labor (at more than 12 hours later!) -- although I suppose you could be now.
In the past week, I have gained a new (sort of) nephew and a new niece. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:although I suppose you could be now.
She better not be, she promised to call and let me know when she is. Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
LOL, my midwife is amazed, too. She actually called me a little while ago and didn't even say "hi" when I answered. She said, "Seriously!?!" Hahaha!
I actually had someone call me "bizarre" the other day, to which I laughed and said thank you, but it's true. I'm odd. I'm weird. And I like it that way (even though this pattern I seem to be in is getting tiresome). Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen:
quote:although I suppose you could be now.
She better not be, she promised to call and let me know when she is.
And I will. Just as soon as I am. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Did you get any rest last night?
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
I think I'm gonna go soak in the tub.
I had a dream the other day that I was soaking and then had the overwhelming urge to go #2, got out, dried off, sat down, and the baby's head came out. No contractions or anything. That'd be awesome!
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Yeah, I slept last night from about 4am until about 11am, with only about 5 potty breaks.
Well, so much for a relaxing evening. I still haven't made it to the tub. The newest development: my MIL will be here Wednesday. Her plane will be landing DURING my midwife appointment, unless I have the baby before then. Pray for me to have the baby by then, y'all. Seriously.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, good grief.
She's not staying with you, is she?
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Yeah, for 2 weeks. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
O_O
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
I know, I've been on the verge of tears all evening. Not only did she basically invite herself, she didn't even wait until hubby called her back this evening to set a date, she just booked the (non-refundable) tickets. So not only will I have to deal with her (even while he's at work and meetings), I now get to spend the next 2 days frantically trying to deep-clean the house instead of peacefully gestating. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
*sigh* I'm sure she thinks she's being helpful . . .
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
In her defense, she's lonely. She just lost her husband of 33 years last month, and wants to visit her only child and grandkids. I don't really mind that, so much.
What I mind is that she's now super-worried about my birth plans, is calling herself a "maternity nurse" even though she hasn't worked on a maternity floor in over 35 years, and was spewing TONS of misinformation on the phone to hubby tonight. When she heard my midwife is a CPM instead of a CNM, she came unglued. I'm afraid I'll have to kick her out of the house while I'm in labor. That wouldn't be fun.
I just...I don't mind her visiting, if she'd have waited to book a flight until we'd talked to her and asked her to wait until at least the 14th.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Sounds perfectly reasonable to me.
Breathe deeply!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Maybe a hurricane will cancel her flight?
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Sigh. You know how I feel about interventions and stuff. If I don't go into labor by then, and the baby is low enough tomorrow, I'm having my membranes stripped in the morning. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well.
I know it's not what you want, hon. But you've been in an awful lot of pain and discomfort for an awful long time.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I'm sorry you MIL is adding stress to your life. You really don't need that right now! I say don't worry about cleaning your house - hand her a duster and toilet brush when she arrives! I really hope that your baby will get moving for you soon!
My in-laws are wonderful, but a couple times while they were here a week ago, I remember telling my MIL (in response to some questions about plans for the day/meals/etc.) - "I don't have plans anymore! My plan is to take care Jessica!" Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
I'm with ludosti: get your mother-in-law to clean.
Nathaniel came early...the day before I had scheduled some professional cleaners to come take care of my house before the relatives descended. Instead, my mother-in-law and (for me even worse) my mother cleaned my house. It gave them something important to do in a stressful situation where they basically felt helpless. It was hard at first for me to let them do that, but I eventually got over it.
(Link is to photos of Nathaniel at birth, in the NICU, and later at home.)
I finally got those cleaners to come this past Saturday, and oh my gosh did they do an AMAZING job. If anyone lives in the northern VA area and would like their information, I really, really, really recommend them. I didn't think ANYONE could get our house cleaner than our mothers, but they did.
I may never clean my own house again. /wishful thinking
Oh, and I'm guessing from hansenj's absence that perhaps she had the baby? Anyone know??
Good luck, Boon!!!! Thinking of you!!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote: I had scheduled some professional cleaners to come take care of my house before the relatives descended.
Now that is an idea. I think we had actually discussed this. Hmmmm.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Yes, she's had her baby. I've been waiting to let her announce it, though. Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
James Kazuo Peterson was born on Friday night at 5:30pm, 8 lbs 1 oz, 19.5 inches long. Family's still all around and things haven't quite settled yet, so I'll write a more involved birth story later. He's very healthy and quite well behaved. I'm doing ok...it was rough on me, so I have some recovery ahead (he was posterior with cord around the neck, so she cut me and used a vacuum to get him here more quickly), but we're very, very happy!
Here's a link to our photo album: James Kazuo Posted by Morbo (Member # 5309) on :
Congratulations, Jen! Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Soooo cute! Congratulations!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Congratulations! Very cute! Bridey was posterior and had the cord around her neck, too, and it was definitely harder to push her out.
Posted by Jhai (Member # 5633) on :
Liz, I'd love the cleaner's information, when you get a chance. We're in Arlington, if that's close enough...
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay!! What a cutey!! I'm sorry things were rough, but I'm so glad everyone is doing well!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Congrats, Jennie! He's very sweet. Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
He looks much less red and wrinkly and much more plump than newborns often do. Very cute!
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
What beautiful, beautiful baby boys! Congrats, both of you!
Sadly, I'm still not in labor. The baby was still WAY too high to risk stripping. Had some more diarrhea last night, and been having the same contractions as before... gah!
And the house is still a wreck, although it's somewhat better than it was...
And hubby is gone for the evening. He's now, along with everything else, a reserve deputy for the county south of us, and "had" to go help the sheriff with some election stuff. HIS mom is visiting, HE wants the house clean, but HE can't bother helping.
On a positive note, my bathroom (where I'll probably be actually giving birth) is spotless. Nobody but me is allowed in there until I'm in active labor. Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
"Oh Mother-in-Law, I'm so glad you're here! What with the contractions and the other kids I just haven't been able to do any of the things around the house that need to get done. I'm so glad you could come to help!"
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
"Oh, Mother-in-Law, I'm so glad you're here! I haven't been able to get to the grocery store. Here's a list."
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay for having your bathroom all ready for you! Now you can go into labor!
Heh, if hubby is the one that wants the house clean, he can be the one that finds the time to do it. Do be sure to put your MIL to work in some way! It will help you to be less stressed and it will help her to focus on something other than losing her husband.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
I've invited the midwife and doula to come have dinner with us tomorrow night. That way she can get all her "concerns" on the table with all of us *before* I'm in labor. I figure they'll either reassure her, or I'll know to send her to a hotel when I go into labor. Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
He's gorgeous!
---
Boon, that sounds like a great idea to me. Good luck!
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Hey, any news from Boon, KQ? It's been a few days now! Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
No news yet. I assume that means "no labor and busy with the m-i-l."
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Guess what?
I got a phone call. Guess who's in labor?
4 and 80 and contracting hard and long about every 4 minutes. She's thinking today, not tomorrow.
She's not in the tub yet-- she's on the bed doing positioning to get the baby to move its head a little to the right-- but it's moving along nicely.
So let's all pray for a safe and happy delivery (and a not-too-big head. )
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
How exciting! Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
How is her MIL's hotel room?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*giggles* I don't know if she's with them or not.
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Any news?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
No call yet. I promise I'll post in this thread as soon as I know!
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Ok, thank you. Three more hours and she will be wrong Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
No baby yet.
As of 6pm yesterday, I was at 6 cm, 60%, and +1...so, moving along, albeit slowly. Baby's head is down, but sitting just a tad to the right, which is messing things up.
Unfortunately, though, the contractions were spacing way out and getting shorter, so were becoming less productive. The midwives and I decided everyone should get some rest, so they went home. I took a nice nap, ate dinner, took a long soak, and went to bed. I only had...maybe 6 or 8 really good contractions overnight.
So...hopefully they'll pick way up again very soon, since I actually got a decent amount of rest last night. Thanks for the good wishes everyone. I'll either post again later to complain or call kq to say I'm back in laborland. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
So now wouldn't be a good time to pester you with tax questions, right? Or would it be a welcome distraction? Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Well, my mom just left. I was completely spoiled this first week with all her help, and I have no idea what things will be like now that she's gone. It's all real...I'm supposed to be a mom now! It's a very weird feeling.
Here's a detailed version of my birth story (sorry it's so long):
I was still 3+ cm dilated and 80% effaced when we got to the hospital to induce Friday morning. They started pitocin at about 8:10am. The contractions started, but they weren't very strong. About an hour later I was at a 4+ and 90% effaced, and the nurse increased the dosage of pitocin. My doctor also stopped in and broke my water. At this point, we found out the little guy had passed meconium inside the womb, so they set up an internal monitor and rinsed me out.
As the contractions got harder and the nurse told me they still weren't very strong, I asked for an epidural. I had to wait about 40 minutes for the anesthesiologist to come (he was in a C-section), so by the time he got to my room, I was very glad I had asked for it! It took about 20 minutes to take effect, but it was pretty amazing. I rested and chatted with my husband, mom, and sister until the nurse came in to check me at about 1:00pm.
We were all shocked after she checked me and said in a calm voice, "Well, you're about a 9 and 100% effaced." It suddenly seemed James was going to arrive sooner than we expected! I quickly progressed to a 10, and the nurse called my doctor. She decided I should "rest and descend" for an hour before pushing, because the baby's head wasn't engaged completely yet.
I started pushing at 3:00pm, but it didn't do much good. The nurse checked and discovered that the baby was posterior. She still had me push for an hour in order to stretch me and help mold the baby's head. At that point, my epidural had worn off, so the anesthesiologist gave me a boost.
While we waited for the boost to kick in, there was a shift change for the nurses. I was now assigned two nurses--an experienced one, and one "in training." The nurse-in-training was pretty funny. She couldn't get the external baby monitor to stay in a place where it could read the baby's heart beat. After trying at it for about 15 minutes, the other nurse came in, picked up the monitor, and placed it in one well-practiced movement. The nurse-in-training was in awe.
The older nurse was very businesslike. When she came in she said, "Why aren't we pushing??" The younger nurse told her that I was resting until the doctor arrived, but the older nurse would have nothing of it. She said my doctor wanted me to keep pushing until she got there, so I reluctantly began the pushing process once again just before 4:30pm.
I felt very discouraged at this point because it didn't seem like my pushing was doing any good. I also come from a family where basically all the women have very fast labors, push about three times, and have a baby. I guess I'm not like them!
My doctor arrived at about 5:00pm, took over the room, gave me a huge pep talk, and we were off. The mood of the room was completely different. My doctor had a sense of urgency about her which helped me push more effectively. She manually turned my baby around inside of me, and held his head like that while I pushed so that he wouldn't just flip right back over. She said we were making progress, but that it was still going to take a while. The thought of it dragging on much longer was extremely depressing! However, James had other ideas. As he entered the birth canal, his heart rate got very slow every time I pushed. My doctor said that we needed to get the baby out quickly, so she was going to use a vacuum.
Things got pretty crazy at this point, but about three pushes later, at 5:30pm, James was here! The cord had been wrapped around his neck (causing him distress). He was whisked away to the corner of the room to be checked by the NICU people because of the meconium. Meanwhile, my doctor sewed me up. She had had to cut me because the baby was in distress.
The NICU pronounced James healthy very quickly, and I got to hold him for the first time. He was (and is!) so beautiful. Like I mentioned before, he was 8 lbs 1 oz and 19.5 inches long.
He had a cone head and a huge hickey-like mark from the vacuum, but it went away within 24 hours. Despite the trauma he went through, he was happy and healthy. He's a fighter, and I love him! Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:Originally posted by rivka: So now wouldn't be a good time to pester you with tax questions, right? Or would it be a welcome distraction?
You know you can always pester Jeff, right?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Jennie, that was hardly "long" for a birth story.
quote:I also come from a family where basically all the women have very fast labors, push about three times, and have a baby. I guess I'm not like them!
Either the baby being posterior or the epidural (or both) could have been the reason for that. Regardless, with the cord the way it was, it's probably just as well.
Any birth that results in a healthy baby and a healthy mommy is a good birth.
kq, thanks, but it's sort of weird and complicated. I need someone with years of experience.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
Will we be getting the tax advice thread? All I want to know is if there is any reason not to file jointly as a poor grad student who is hoping for an EIC this year (now that I have a baby).
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Um, rivka, he HAS years of experience, and prepares taxes, you know, year round, for a living, and is in the process of becoming an EA.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(That's, like, his title and everything. Tax Accountant. He even works for a very well respected firm that specializes in taxes. He handles weird and complicated every day.)
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
But hasn't he only been doing this for a couple years? *confused*
Anyway, Boon already knows much of the background from previous conversations.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah. He has a couple years of experience.
But I'm talking to Boon and she'd really rather not answer tax questions right now. Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
It could distract her from the pain. ;-)
Posted by Dark as night (Member # 9577) on :
Congratulations, hansenj! I'm happy things turned out well.
KQ, I'll be asking Jeff for tax advice next year! Actually, maybe I could ask him a couple of questions now. *scratches head* Like how does a single, childless, propertyless person avoid being eaten alive as she enters a new tax bracket? Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: I'm talking to Boon and she'd really rather not answer tax questions right now.
Which was my original assumption.
It'll keep.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Guess what?
BABY IS HERE! Both mother and baby are fine. She will post details when she feels up to it. And I promised not to say any more. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Hooray! Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Oh, that's terrific! I can't wait to hear details. Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Jhai, I emailed you the information about the cleaners. Let me know if you didn't get it...or if the email listed with hatrack isn't current. Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Labor kicked in again at about 11pm on the 10th. Within an hour, the contractions were back to every 4 minutes or so, but MUCH stronger, so I had hubby call the midwife.
The doula arrived first (within 15 minutes), and by the time she did, I was getting less than 30 seconds rest between contractions. Midwife arrived about 5 minutes later and checked me. I was still at 6cm and +1, but 100% effaced.
I rolled over on my left side, trying to conserve energy, and they just kept getting stronger...but also seemed shorter somehow.
Then, all of a sudden, I had to pee so bad I couldn't stand it, so I rocked over onto hands and knees to crawl off the bed. Dribble. Stand up. Dribble some more. Hurry to the potty. Dribble all the way there. Heh, my water broke. Honestly, that was the biggest shock to me, that my water broke on its own like that.
I had a few more contractions, while they tried to fill the tub for me. Unfortunately, *someone* who didn't want me in the tub in the first place had used most of the hot water.
Gah, more later. Baby needs more boobie. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
You're so mean. You didn't even tell them what it is!
And I know and I'm not telling. Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
One handed typing...
So, I'm sitting on the potty and I tell the midwife I'm getting pushy, so she offers to check me. I tell her there's no room for her to do it there, so the doula set up the birthing chair. A couple more contractions and some involuntary pushing later, everyone helps me get up and go squat on it.
Immediately, I'm ROARING. My legs are shaking, I'm pushing, everyone's saying how great I'm doing, how the baby's right there, and then...
Relief. Pure, powerful, one last push and I look down, and there's a baby on my bedroom floor.
I remember saying "Oh, hi." As if I didn't know there was a baby at the end of it. It was a weird feeling.
I reach down to pick the baby up, and the midwife helps me put him on my chest and cover him with a towel.
Michael Dennis was born at 1:50 am on the 11th, less than 3 hours after active labor started back up. He weighed 9 pounds 2 ounces, 21 1/2 inches long, 36 cm head circumference, 34 cm chest, 10 fingers and 10 toes, 9 and 10 apgar scores...he's just perfect. He has a fading ridge around his head from sitting on my cervix like that for 2 days, though.
I had one tiny first degree tear. It could've taken a single stitch, but I opted to let it heal by itself. I'm pretty sore, but have only needed 2 ibuprofen for pain relief.
A couple of things I said to the midwife in the hour after the birth:
"Hey, you never checked me and said I could push!" She said when I squatted and she saw a little of the baby's head, she knew it'd be okay.
"Guess what? My uterus didn't asplode!" She laughed.
And the best one: "Think I should take the baby to the c-section they scheduled for noon today?" Posted by Tammy (Member # 4119) on :
Congratulations Boon and baby! Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Yay!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Boon: "Think I should take the baby to the c-section they scheduled for noon today?"
Congrats! Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, I told her that she should have let them schedule the c-section for last week-- then the baby would have come earlier, he was just being stubborn! Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Wow! That's a great story! Congratulations on the healthy baby! Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Fantastic story! Congratulations!
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Congratulations!
Posted by Dark as night (Member # 9577) on :
Congratulations! Posted by Morbo (Member # 5309) on :
Congratulations, Boon! I'm so happy for you and your family! Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I hate heartburn.
I'm hungry right now but rather afraid to eat. They say to eat small meals but I've been eating small meals and it still burns me. You can't get much smaller than a piece of toast. Sheesh. Is it May yet?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Christine: I feel your pain. I've been going through a looooot of (generic) Zantac.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
When I was pregnant with John my doctor gave me samples of aciphex. Wonderful stuff -- it worked fast and was very effective. I would have gladly paid for the prescription, but he gave me enough samples that I never had to.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay Boon!!!! I'm glad to hear that things went well! I hope you and Michael are doing well!
Christine - I'm so sorry you're having awful heartburn. While I never had heartburn, I had horrible problems with acid reflux (exacerbated by all the problems with vomiting I had). I ended up taking (generic) Zantac for the majority of my pregnancy and it really helped.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Okay, so Boon and I figured out that my previous BH were her fault. Now whose fault are the ones I'm having today? Or is that all on me?
It does not help that Maggie has decided to do backflips today-- which at almost 30 weeks is NOT comfortable. There is just not much room in there for gymnastics. And when combined with the BH cx, just plain painful. Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Well, I'm 2 centimeters dilated, so this is happening whether I'm ready or not! I'm taking the day off work to get some last minute stuff done--which is pretty much everything. My life is not very organized or predictable--so I still have pretty much everything to do. I have been working steadily (as I can) to get the house ready by going through masses of clutter, not that you'd know to look at it. *sigh* But today I have determined to finish--even though that means hiding stuff in drawers. I don't care. Once all the junk is out of sight, I can go through it little by little. (I believe that after the baby is born, I will become a new convert of the FlyLady.)
Anyway, one of the first things I'm doing is packing my hospital bag, and I'd love some tips on what I should put in it.
Clothes for me: pants shirt extra underwear bra (will I need a nursing bra right away? I haven't bought one yet because I was thinking I'd only need a bigger size after the baby is born anyway.) socks hospital-like nightgown (maybe one of those granny ones that button up at the front that they sell at Wal-Mart?)
Outfit for husband
Outfit for baby more than one size of onesies because I don't know how big she'll be one pretty pink outfit with hat socks mittens?
big pads (although the hospital provides huge ones, right?) laptop DVDs music travel toiletry bag--has all the toiletries I can think of already--except face lotion birth plan
Is there anything else I should bring?
Thanks! Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
If you don't already have a nightgown you want to take, don't worry about it. I wore the hospital gown until after John was born and they were done having to check me for bleeding and then took a shower and changed into yoga pants and a T-shirt (which is my normal lounging around the house attire).
Definitely bring underwear. I couldn't believe how good it felt to get out of the disposable mesh ones the hospital gives you for right after the birth and into my own undies. This time around I'm going to skip the mesh ones entirely and just bring a few pair that I wouldn't mind tossing if they get really gross. But I didn't have bad bleeding anyway, so the pads were adequate.
I was glad to have a nursing bra right away, but my breasts are large enough that I really can't not wear a bra comfortably, even just sitting in bed. I brought one of the "sleep bras" that aren't as specific about the size. Not great support, but enough to be comfortable. If you're planning on nursing, it would be a total pain to be wearing a bra that you can't move out of the way easily.
Other items for your list -- what about books?
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Robe, if you are going to go the nightgown route. I went totally 1950s and wore a nightgown & bed jacket (who knew they still had those??) or robe for my whole stay. Worked out best w/ the C-section anyway.
I was able to get away with not wearing a bra at night until my milk came in, but it wouldn't hurt to have one.
Maybe bring snacks, for your husband during the delivery and for you after.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
dkw, Well, I'm very plus-sized. I was worried that the hospital might not have a gown that I'm comfortable in. It's hard to get standard issue ones around my hips.
Maybe I'll find a comfy sleep/nursing bra.
After I wrote the list, I wondered if I should bring books. I don't think I'll be in much of a reading mood, but I guess it wouldn't hurt to bring one or two, just in case.
I also think I should add a receiving blanket or two. I don't have a bunch of them for nothing, right?
Off to go shopping...
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Bring books. Babies sleep most of the day they're born. I knew I should be sleeping too, but I was too excited to sleep, and the hospital was too loud and disruptive with people coming and going in my room. I ended up pretty bored.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I'm plus sized as well. They gave me two gowns, one to wear with the opening in back, and one to wear over it like a robe with the opening in front. That made it much more comfortable to walk around without worrying about mooning anyone.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Oh my! I forgot about being there AFTER the baby is born. Duh. I was just thinking about the time leading up to labor.
Yeah, books would be a good idea.
And snacks! Very good!
Thanks:)
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
I bought one of the sleeping nursing bras from Motherhood Maternity. They're only $12, and I ended up liking it a lot. I just wore it as soon as I got to the hospital so that I wouldn't be completely naked under the hospital gown. It made me feel a lot more comfortable. One bit of advice, though...I didn't use nursing pads in the hospital because my milk hadn't come in. My nipples were extremely sore, so the nurse gave me some lanolin cream to use. The cream worked and everything, but because I didn't have nursing pads on, I stained my brand new sleeping bra (the cream is yellow). So, if you use lanolin cream, be sure to have nursing pads, too.
Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
I found this website to be helpful in listing things I might want to bring with me. Lots of the items seemed optional but at least if you can see what other people brought you can decide if that is something you might want. http://www.verybestbaby.com/CoolTools/PackingHospital.aspx Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Pillows! I hate to sleep without my feather pillow, so I brought it and a couple others along. Hospital pillows suck. If you bring your own put colorful pillowcases on them so that it's obvious they're yours.
I also brought my big inflatable exercise ball, and a few massage thingees so Bob wouldn't wear out his hands rubbing my back. A tennis ball is a good cheap option.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm very much a reader, but I've never been able to concentrate on books after the baby is born-- too tired and too many hormones. Magazines are more my concentration level immediately post-partum. Or movies.
Bring comfy slippers to walk around in, and flip-flops if you're going to shower there. (Last two times I just brought flip-flops to walk in, and my feet were cold. This time I'm bringing fuzzy slippers.)
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by dkw: I'm plus sized as well. They gave me two gowns, one to wear with the opening in back, and one to wear over it like a robe with the opening in front.
Ditto. And they had nursing flaps.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I think nursing flaps are pretty standard in CA (and some other parts of the country.)
None of the hospitals in Dallas have them that I'm aware of, OTOH. Or at least, they didn't four years ago.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I wore the same dress home from the hospital that I wore there. I also brought a giant pair of panties that I wore home (over the mesh panties). While I was in labor I wore the 2 gown system when walking around. I brought a big fluffy robe for walking the halls afterwards. Make sure the slippers/flip-flops are big. My feet were really swollen for more than a week (from the c-section). Having had a c-section, the mesh panties were more comfortable for me than regular panties would have been.
I wouldn't worry about bringing clothes for the baby (other than something cute to wear home) or pads. I only brought a receiving blanket to use for getting her smell to introduce it to the cats. While there, I just used the ones they had there.
A massager, like dkw suggested, was nice to have. I didn't do much reading, but I did use the ipod a lot. I also brought a sleep mask to help me sleep while in the hospital.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I am going crazy today! The house is a mess; I can't clean it. The laundry needs doing; I can't do it. I can't even get out, because I can't walk. I'm having awful BH and probably need to drink more, but trying to drink makes me ill. It is not a good day. I am seriously at the end of my rope today.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Sorry, kq! That must be seriously frustrating.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
((((((((kq))))))))
Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
Sorry its been a rough day! I will be at 35 weeks tomorrow and I am seriously getting sick of being pregnant. My hips are killing me. I can't tie my own shoes, even just rolling over in bed has become its own ordeal. I also am just ready to meet this little one. I guess that makes all the crappy parts worth it Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm getting ready to go to my appointment... I really need to remember to get a note for the dentist, and I'm worried I'll forget!
Last night I came up with a new middle name option. (Unlike previous children, we have a name but can NOT decide on a middle name! First I thought of Faith, and we liked that. Then I thought of Louisa or Joanna, so she could be Maggie Lou or Maggie Jo, they are so cute. But none of them really stand out above the others.) Anyway, last night I was singing "When First Unto this Country" and every time I sang it, Maggie danced! So I started thinking, "Hmmm, Margaret Nancy is a nice name... Has the feel I want for her name... Nancy is a name I've always liked but would never give as a first name... And it would be such a great story as to how she got her middle name!"
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
My mom took me to the doctor. Then the thrift store. Then she came and cleaned my kitchen and did my dishes.
I love my mommy.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
I wish my mommy would clean my kitchen (though it is like a thousand mile trip, so that might keep her from doing it).
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
My mommy lives about as close to me as kq's does to her (IIRC), but I don't think she's cleaning my kitchen. Alas!
I'll have to get the kids to do it. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Dangit.
I had a whole post about how my mommy flew 1500 miles to clean my kitchen, among other things, while in congestive heart failure, but teh Internets ate it.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay for having a wonderful mommy!! I'm so glad you have her there to help you! I'm sorry you've been having such a lousy time lately.
I don't know what I would do without my mom. Even though Jess is 2 months old, I really look forward to the few hours my mom comes over almost every day. Not only is it fun to get to see her (and she loves getting to see her first grandchild so often), but having her here gives me time to do things like cleaning and laundry (because of my mom's health problems, she can't do things like that for me). I also really love being able to give my mom an opportunity to be of help (because of her physical limitations she often feels "worthless"). Some days the biggest help anyone can give me is just to dote on my baby so I can do other things without feeling guilty.
theresa - Hang in there!! It really will be over soon (though it doesn't seem like it, I know) and it really truly will be worth it. While I'm certainly not ready to do it again anytime soon, all the sickness and pain and discomfort was well worth it to get my beautiful angel.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
My mommy is here right now. She finished my ironing and is asking what else I have around the house for her to do.
We can't think of anything!
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
My mommy lives 4 hours away.
She's coming as soon as we've confirmed I'm in labor but it's still going to take a while for her to get here.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
My mommy lives 6 hours away, and made it in plenty of time. Bob's mom lives 1,645 miles away and also made it in plenty of time. (When we called her she didn't say anything about coming and told us to call again when we left for the hospital. Then she called us back 15 minutes later to say her flight would be arriving at 9. )
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Here is a little vignette from my ultra-high risk, problem-riddled, extremely painful and uncomfortable pregnancy:
Dr. Christmas (perinatologist): We won't know until your next pregnancy... Kira: [interrupting]: I am NEVER going through this again. EVER. Seriously, Dr. Christmas. Come on.
My fertility appointment is March 19th.
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
That's awesome.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Sounds a bit frustrating, to say the least, kq. Are you feeling less dizzy now?
I had dizzy periods, but it never lasted long enough for me to ask my doctor about it. And it happens when I'm not pregnant, too, so... I just didn't think much of it.
I'm 39 weeks, 6 days today. My mom pointed out that if I have the baby today, she'll be 4 times younger than everybody else. But I don't think I'm going to have the baby today, and my husband told me I'm not allowed to go into labor. Today's just not a good day for that. Heh.
And it really isn't. This weekend the male doctor is on call. I just don't want to go to him. Yesterday I had an OB appointment (still 2 centimeters), and the receptionist gave me a really hard time about scheduling my next appointment with one of the two female doctors. Usually, she gives in. This time she went to ask one of the doctors, since there was nothing in my chart that said I had permission. (I do, I cleared this with one of the doctors, who told me to just tell the girls at the front desk when I make my appointments.) She asked me, well, what are you going to do if he's on call when you give birth? I just told her I'd deal with that if I had to.
I have seen the male doctor for fully-clothed visits, and he is a good doctor, very competent, but I am just NOT comfortable with a male doctor for certain types of appointments.
Anyway, she gave me my next appointment with one of the female doctors, but evidently, the issue is going to be brought up in one of their doctor meetings. It's not like I have many more appointments until the baby gets here. I might not even make it to my next one.
After that, I can pick one doctor as my OB/GYN and stick to her. I understand that they have the policy so that all of the doctors are familiar with the patient because you never know who is going to be on call when she goes into labor. But he HAS seen me. I don't see why he NEEDS to check my cervix ahead of time personally to know how to deliver my baby. I simply am more comfortable with women doctor's in those situations. If it so happens that he's on call when I go into labor, I will deal with it--because it is unavoidable. But when it is avoidable, I will avoid.
Well, this post wasn't intended to be about all of that... I just wanted to point out I'm one day away from my due date. My doctor told me that if I don't have the baby by my next appointment, they'll want to schedule an induction. I said I didn't want an induction unless there was a medical emergency/problem with the baby. She said they just don't like their patients to go more than a week past their due date. To me, that's not a very good medical reason. I'm not sure how to approach that with the doctor, though. I suppose if they insist on making an induction appointment, I don't have to show up.
The only way I'll agree to an induction is if there is a medical reason for it--something that indicates it is unsafe for my baby or for me if I wait. I guess I'll just have to say that.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
Being in too long can be a medical reason. My mom did not induce with my sister and when she was born, she was all rashy and icky and had little cuts in the cracks of her skin. There can be more severe complications as well, even including higher risk of death. The fluid is thining, the placenta is dying. I think they can do some stress tests and stuff to better assess some of the risks, though not all. But there are some reason behind that policy.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
kq: Glad to hear it's official.
Katarain: Good for you. You may indeed have to say just that. If it were me I'd also add "It's my understanding that the estimated due date is plus or minus two weeks. I will not even consider an elective induction until I reach 42 weeks. If there is a medical reason you feel otherwise, let's talk about it." Good luck.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
That's even more true for me, since I didn't have a date for my LMP. My date is based on an early ultrasound.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by dkw: Katarain: Good for you. You may indeed have to say just that. If it were me I'd also add "It's my understanding that the estimated due date is plus or minus two weeks. I will not even consider an elective induction until I reach 42 weeks. If there is a medical reason you feel otherwise, let's talk about it." Good luck.
I had to do just about that (although nicer, 'cuz my doctor was not completely unreasonable ). So they scheduled one for the day I hit 42 weeks, with NSTs twice a week . . . and the kid finally showed up the next day. (#3 waited until the day before the induction appointment.)
The only one of mine that actually was induced was #1, and that was for medical cause (and before my due date).
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
My belly is starting to stick out rather alarmingly, and I'm only six months along. I think part of the reason it looks so weird is that I haven't gained as much weight in other parts of my body this time, so I'm just this petite woman with a huge pregnant belly. Still, I hope I don't end up with one of those freakish shelf bellies by the end. That can't be comfortable.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Not comfortable, but oh so convenient for bowls of ice cream and soup. Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I have a friend/acquaintence who is a professional dancer, and when she was pregnant I don't think she put on an ounce of extra fat anywhere on her body. She looked like an amazingly athletic, slender woman with a basketball glued to the front of her abdomen.
Edit to add: She's like six feet tall, too.
[ February 29, 2008, 12:53 PM: Message edited by: dkw ]
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
quote:Originally posted by Katarain: That's even more true for me, since I didn't have a date for my LMP. My date is based on an early ultrasound.
From what I was told, due dates based on early ultrasounds are the most accurate way to date the age of a fetus. I would think that if you explain that you're not comfortable with an induction at only 1 week late, they could work with you and help you find something that you're both comfortable with. Good luck with everything!! I hope you have a good labor and delivery experience and a beautiful healthy baby!!
kq - Congrats on being officially weird!! I'm sorry you're having so many problems with dizziness and that they don't know why! I had problems with dizziness back after I got home from my mission and they couldn't figure out what was causing it (thank goodness it only lasted a few months). I hope it won't last too long or interfere too much with your life.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Katarain: I have (kind of) the same situation. Thankfully my doctor is wonderful about it. He has two female partners but while I have talked to them if they were the on-call doc and I called with an issue, I have never had to see them (something that would cause a panic attack.) My doctor makes sure that there is always a male doctor available for me (even if he is on vacation.) And that it's in my chart in big red letters that female doctors are not to examine me except in dire emergency. But then, in his pracice, they are all expected to deliver their own patients, even on weekends...
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Uuuuugh, it is one of THOSE days. I feel icky but I don't even have the energy to shower...
8 more weeks until the baby. And 7 of them tax season. Why doesn't life have a fast-forward button?
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Only 8 weeks?!
Wow. Your pregnancy has gone fast - from my perspective, not from yours, I'm sure. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, technically, I have about 9 weeks to my due date. But I'm planning on induction at 39 weeks (if I can stand it that long!)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(And actually, it's been both fast and slow from my perspective.
Individual days seem to drag, but the weeks tick down before I know it, KWIM?)
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Fair warning: body fluids and bare nekkid people in the slideshow. Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
How awesome!! I grinned like an idiot watching. I especially loved the "pinkies don't have milk!!" caption! It's great to have pictures of your brand new baby - I sometimes wish I had a few earlier ones since I was so out of it (the first one I have is when she's about 10 minutes old, but it's one of my favorite pictures).
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
KataBaby came yesterday afternoon after a night and day of very painful labor. She's 7 pounds, 14 ounces and is just beautiful.
My water broke in trickles on Saturday evening, and I didn't go to the hospital for 3 or 4 hours. What can I say? I still had stuff to do!
Anyway, we went and I did, indeed, have the male doctor. It wasn't that bad. He ticked my husband off, though, because he was talking to me and I said something and he cut me off, "Let me finish." Hubby thought that he was really rude there. I went without and induction medicines that night, but my contractions never got regular enough, and since they wanted the baby delivered within 24 hours of the water breaking, he started me on pitocin Sunday morning. I wasn't happy about that at all, but this was one of those situations where I didn't really see a way out. I didn't want to risk infection to the baby.
The contractions were really painful, and I agreed to IV Stadol and fenergan (sp?) after a few hours. The drugs really knocked me out, it was if I was in a very deep haze right on the edge of sleep and I was unable to carry on a conversation--my mind was way too slow to send coherent messages to my mouth. And the contractions still hurt! They said the drugs would only take the edge off, but talk about a small edge. I took two doses of that (lasted two hours each), and finally decided to get the epidural. The pain was just way too much to handle.
Well, the epidural relaxed me enough to become completely dialated, but unfortunately, it didn't work completely on my right side. I had a very localized place where I could still feel the contractions, and the pain actually radiated into the top of my right leg. It was SO painful--maybe even worse then before?
Overall, I was mostly quiet during the contractions, taking deep breaths in and out, and counting each one. By the time I got to 10 to 13 breaths, the contraction was nearing the end. Counting helped me greatly through it all, because I was able to work toward a goal--the end of the pain. When the contractions got more painful, sometimes I'd yell or scream--just to help relieve some of the pain. When we got to the pushing stage, I was able to continue pushing through the horrendously painful contractions better when the nurse would count to ten. They noticed it too. I needed the goal of ten or else I never saw the end!
Anyway, since I had that 24 hour time limit, and was pushed through the pushing stage so quickly, I tore pretty badly on the inside. I had to wait 35+ minutes after the baby was born while the doctor stitched me up. They put her on my stomach while she was still a bloody mess for about a minute before taking her away to clean her up. My mom helped to clean me off while the doctor worked on my stitches.
My mom and others said that you forget the pain once you see that little baby, but that wasn't the case for me. I was feeling pretty numb emotionally and spent physically when she was finally born. I was able to feel more excited and connected to her when I really got the chance to hold her and feed her without the nurses around last night. Not that the nurses aren't great, they are, but I needed to do things for her rather than just watching. I did call them plenty of times, though, to get their help with stuff like nursing and swaddling.
I had such a mild pregnancy, that I guess it really was just to balance out the painful labor and delivery. I know that my experience isn't unique and that all women have to go through the pain, but darn it all, I wish the meds had worked. If I'm ever crazy enough to get pregnant again, I'll get that epidural early to increase the chance that it will actually work.
Anyway, that's all over now, and she's here. Our pretty little one. Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
Congrats!!! And while I had a good epidural and an easy delivery, I still haven't forgot the pain. I think people who claim you forget all the pain either didn't feel pain as bad as I did (pre-epidural) or are a bit senile. Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Hurray for you! Hurray for baby!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by scholar: I think people who claim you forget all the pain either didn't feel pain as bad as I did (pre-epidural) or are a bit senile.
Gee, thanks.
Congrats, Kata! I trust you are posting lying down? Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Congratulations!! You did it!! I can't wait to see pictures!!
I'm so sorry things were painful and that you needed Pitocin (I know it's not fun - after about an hour I ended up with an epidural). I'm also really sorry the epidural didn't work fully for you. I remember being frustrated that mine worked too well - I couldn't feel the contractions, so my mom ended up watching the monitor to prompt me to breathe heavier during the contractions so baby's heart rate wouldn't drop. The memories of the pain will fade with time, I promise. After only 2 months out, while I remember that things were unpleasant and painful, memories of the actual pain have basically disappeared. Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Congratulations!
My little guy's only a month old, and I have a hard time remembering the pain of contractions. I keep reminding myself that it was very bad pain, and the fact that I can't remember it doesn't mean it wasn't bad.
Now, the pain AFTER delivery (the pushing on my belly)? That I remember vividly! That was the worst pain ever! But I hear that if your epidural is still in effect you can't feel it when they push on your belly...mine had worn off.
I also totally agree on the counting thing. Having a goal to reach really helped me. I think I'll try the counting how many breaths during each contraction next time (and yes, I can already consider the possibility of a next time...it really surprised me when I realized that).
Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
Congratulations! Have a wonderful time enjoying your new little one Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
I have a question for those of you who have had an epidural. I am leaning towards getting one with this pregnancy, I am curious as to how far into the labor you were when you got one and if that is when you would want one again. I am feeling unsure about how long I want to try and go without an epidural or even if there is any gain in going without one for a time. What do you all think?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Okay, I've been induced twice.
The first time my stinky doctor wouldn't give me one until my pain was at a 9.5 out of 10, (ten being "the worst pain I could imagine.")
It helped but I still felt the pressure as pain and, it also wasn't as effective, since they couldn't get me in the ideal position to give it at that point.
The second time I had it after my contractions were regulated but before they upped the pitocin to make them painful. It was wonderful. They also put a narcotic IN the epidural so I didn't feel the pressure-as-pain pain, either, except at the very end (just enough to push!)
I'm doing that again.
It all depends on what is important to you. For many women going natural is a great accomplishment, they feel a greater connection to the baby, it is even a spiritual experience, etc. Also, for some women, an epidural interferes with their ability to do what works best for them-- walking, birth ball, etc., and they hate being confined to the bed. For some women, the pain detracts from the experience and they would rather enjoy it without worrying about the pain. Some women don't mind being in bed the whole time, as long as the epidural is working. (Remember there IS a risk it won't work.) I'm one of the latter. But I know many women who are the former. They don't regret their choice to go without medication; I don't regret my choice to have an epidural. It's a very individual choice and whichever you decide is a wonderful one. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Congratulations on the baby, Katarain! Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Congrats, Katarain!
Heh, last night my husband was on the phone with one of his friends talking about going to lunch today, and he said, "I'll have to check with the wife. She gives birth at home to nine pound babies with no drugs. Don't wanna mess with a woman like that!" Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Boon: That's great!
Theresa: You know, I'm not sure what I'm going to do next time because the epidural did not work quite like I wanted it to. I couldn't feel any urge to push, so they had to let it wear off in an attempt to help me feel what to do. Instead of helping me need to push, it just made it so I could feel the pain of the contractions. I never felt the urge to push!
Regarding when to get the epidural, I think I got mine at a pretty good time. I was induced as well. I asked for it when the contractions were getting pretty painful, and the nurse told me they weren't that strong yet (looking at the monitor). I figured that if they were going to get a whole lot worse, I would like the epidural.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
There is a point in going without the epidural for a time even if you plan on getting one -- getting it too early can slow labor. That's not as big a deal if you're being induced anyway, since they can turn up the pitocin drip, but if you aren't induced and you get the epidural too soon you might need pitocin anyway to get things moving again.
Also once you get the epidural you're stuck in bed and lose the option to walk around, take a warm bath or shower, and anything else that you might want to do to relax, releive bordom, or get things going faster. Also to go to the bathroom. Once the epidural is in you get a catheter.
I can't stand the idea of being tethered to anything, so even if I could stand the idea of someone sticking a needle in my back (which I can't) and even if I wanted to do something other than natural childbirth (which I don't) I think I'd wait as long as I could to get the epidural so I could keep my freedom of movement. And freedom of peeing.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
When we were discussing what we wanted to do, I did not like the idea of not being able to move. Once the pain kicked in (I was induced so pictocin level contractions), I did not want to move at all. I also felt like the contractions were nearly continuous with peaks of pain, but like level 4 pain throughout, with level 7-9 peaks. All I wanted to do is lay down, curl into a ball and stay there. So, the epidural was a very easy decision. My doctor did make me wait until I was 4 cms and 80% effaced (though in reality it was 5 cms before we finally did it) since he didn't want me to slow down too much. For pushing, they told me when and how to push so I just followed instructions. But my husband and I had talked about trying to do it natural and the plan was to go natural unless it hurt too bad.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
She ate so well last night, and she won't eat now. I'm getting quite upset about it. I don't think my milk has come in yet, and I think she ate everything that was already there. I don't know what to do.
I'm searching for that breastfeeding thread before I call the nursery for help.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Katarain, it's fine if your milk hasn't come in yet. It will. Colustrum is SO good for her. Try Kellymom for really good breastfeeding info. (The link is to info about getting started.)
Congratulations on your new baby!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Katarain, it's okay. Bridget did the same thing and I freaked out because Emma had eaten constantly. She's not going to starve. First, if she's acting hungry, put her on. You'll make more colostrum for her. Second, she might be getting frustrated or distracted. Some babies need extra chin support, a different position, etc. Bridey had a little chin and I had to support her chin with a finger under it the first few weeks. Bridget also couldn't nurse not only if covered, but if my shirt hit her chin, I had to keep it well back from her face so she wouldn't get distracted. And make sure she's thoroughly burped; while Ems just screamed if she had gas, Bridey felt like her tummy was full and wouldn't eat. Then we'd burp her and it would empty out the tummy and she'd take more. I found that I had to burp her at least 3 or 4 times per feeding, usually 2 times for each side she ate on, for the first month or so. Kellymom is a great resource. You're doing fine and it's going to be okay.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(And, it IS okay to call for a lactation consultant if that doesn't work. That's what they're there for. )
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
KQ is right about calling for the lactation consultant.
Up at 4 nursing mine, so I'm thinking of you and hoping everything is going well...(Katarain)
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Kadrina:
Definitely don't be afraid to call a lactation consultant for any help or questions.
I hope you're doing all right today...It usually takes 3-5 days for your milk to come in. Colostrum is thick and slow, so you need to nurse frequently, but it really is all right. Your baby may even cluster feed...that is want to feed again 5 minutes after she finished. Go with it...that's a great way to signal your breast that there's demand.
I spend a lot of time on a BF support forum on another site. (www.babyfit.com ... I'm not_a_witch there) People there will answer your questions, share experiences, or just support you through these rough early days.
For the record, it took my milk 6 or 7 days to come in. The early weeks were a very frustrating time for me, but I asked for help, got support from the BF forum I mentioned, and am so glad I got through it to the good part. It was nice for me to know that other moms were going through the same thing and that it was normal. Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
((Katarain)) Keep trying!! I know it took me about 3-4 days before my milk came in. I was terrified that she was starving (since I didn't know if she was getting anything - my colostrum was never visible), but the nurses promised me she would be fine (since I had her right before Christmas, there weren't any lactation consultants that could help me). I had problems with waking her up to eat. The poor little girl was so sleepy that it was near impossible to get her to wake up to eat (one day it took 3 of us - me, my mom, and a nurse - trying for 45 minutes straight to wake up). I don't know what your feelings are concerning bottle feeding, but if you are _that_ concerned, you can supplement with formula. I supplemented with formula for the first couple weeks (and used pumped breast milk to give my nipples a rest). We had no problems with nipple confusion or any preference for bottles (if anything, she prefers the breast - she gets upset if she has to take a bottle when I'm not home or when she's eating too fast for my supply to keep up).
Be prepared for your milk to come in - you might get engorged. Mine was so bad that poor Jess couldn't latch on. Between the engorgement and the pain (she really tore me up) I almost gave up after a couple weeks. Thank goodness for a pump and nipple shields!! They saved the day.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
And on another topic, my son and I both came down with the stomach flu yesterday.
Drake started screaming at 3 a.m. and my husband and I spend the next 3 hours comforting, cleaning, etc. At 6 a.m. my husband was getting ready to leave for work when I had to run for the bathroom myself...at the exact same moment poor Drake started screaming again. So my husband stayed home.
By yesterday evening I was so dehydrated my OB told me to go to the hospital to get some fluids pumped into my veins and to make sure the baby was ok. I did and the baby's heartbeat was just fine. I felt much better after getting 2 liters of fluids and today I can finally hold down some water and small amounts of dry toast.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
((Christine)) It's surprising how awful dehydration makes you feel. I hope you'll be able to keep enough fluids down now that you don't have to get more fluids! I'm so glad the baby did ok. Hopefully you and Drake will be over this quickly!!
When I got dehydrated, I was terrified I was turning my baby into a little prune or something. After the 4 liters of fluids, it was amazing how much better I felt.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
((Christine))
and ((Drake)), too!
My milk started to come in on the (counts) 3rd full day after delivery. I was using a hospital-grade pump religiously every 3 hours, including at night (baby was in NICU & couldn't nurse yet). I was completely discouraged the second day because I was getting almost nothing...as in, I was using a syringe to pull out droplets of colostrum from the pump parts so I could have 3 ml in the bottle. That was after 20 minutes of pumping. Just keep nursing...it'll happen.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Thanks for the words of encouragement. I called the nursery and the nurse was able to get her to latch on and nurse for a while. They did tell me that I wouldn't run out. I was glad to hear it.
She's in a major sleep session right now. I've managed to wake her up twice to get her to eat for about 5 minutes 2 times. (Maybe 3 times?? Everything starts to blur together.) She seems pretty content, though, so I'm trying not to worry, and I'm offering the breast every time she wakes up.
And yeah, she was fussy last night. The nurse thought she had gas, but she finally started feeling better and when she settled down at last, I got a precious 4 hours of sleep! I felt like I had won the lottery.
Thanks:) We're going home soon. I imagine the next few weeks will be very challenging!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay for a sleeping baby and getting to go home soon!!
The first couple weeks home is really challenging (I won't lie), but it really does get easier. Just keep trying and remind yourself that it will get better (and quicker than you'd think). Do your best to rest - only getting to sleeping in little snatches makes it seem like it's lasting forever and like you'll never get good sleep again, but you will. Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Katarain: I'm glad the nurses were able to help. Make sure you're sleeping when the baby is. When she wakes, she may not let you for a while. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
It is just exceedingly hard to sleep when you have a backache AND Braxton-Hicks.
Oh, and my next appointment I get to have an ultrasound and see Maggie again. But of course KPC can't be there. I think I will invite my mom in, it's so much more fun with people there. And I'll of course get a videotape so KPC can watch that night (if he doesn't fall asleep...)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Also, KPC still won't help decide on a middle name. I am getting pretty settled on Nancy. Margaret Nancy, or Maggie Nan for short. (Well, usually just Maggie, but I will call her Maggie Nan if I want to.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(Maybe I should start a Hatrack petition and bully everyone into agreeing with me. Then I can say, "Hatrack says her middle name should be Nancy. So there." )
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: (Maybe I should start a Hatrack petition and bully everyone into agreeing with me. Then I can say, "Hatrack says her middle name should be Nancy. So there." )
That's only fair if we get to know his choice. Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Oh man, I definitely am enjoying my backache-free sleep (when James is letting me sleep, that is). *sympathy vibes*
James has started to smile when I play with his hands and feet! He smiled a lot from around day three, but they were just subconscious-type smiles usually right as he was dozing off. I'm so excited!
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Aren't those little smiles sweet? Nathaniel has just recently started to know how to smile..before he would smile occasionally, but then couldn't do it again. Now he smiles on purpose. (He's a little behind developmentally for his actual age of 3 months, but a bit ahead for his corrected age of 7 weeks.)
What I'm just as excited about is that he's started to sleep a 5-7 hour block from around 9 to around 2-4 AM. That means that last night he fell asleep around 9, I relaxed & took a bubble bath and read for a little, then went to bed at 10:30 AND SLEPT FOR 5 HOURS STRAIGHT. Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Aw man. We had finally gotten a pretty good nap thing going (and sleeping at night had been going well for a few weeks), and now it's all wrecked. I'm not positive, but I think she's teething - at 11 weeks! It's so unfair. She started acting more "fussy" about a week ago. This week she's been getting worse - tons of drooling, more crying (she rarely cries, so this is new), restlessness while she's sleeping and difficulty going to and staying asleep (especially during the day). I can see a couple little white spots on her lower gums and she sometimes is comforted by chewing on shoulders or something cool (teething ring, washcloth, refrigerated pacifier). The poor little girl sometimes doesn't even want to eat. All you moms already know it, but it just breaks my heart that she's hurting/unhappy and I can't fix it.
Smiling babies are great! Jess is really getting into making lots of sounds and "talking" to us. It's adorable!
Yay Liz for sleep!! Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:Originally posted by scholar:
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: (Maybe I should start a Hatrack petition and bully everyone into agreeing with me. Then I can say, "Hatrack says her middle name should be Nancy. So there." )
That's only fair if we get to know his choice.
He doesn't HAVE a choice; that's the problem. I have come up with all the middle name ideas and he likes them all "okay."
ludosti, mine teethed way before that... Bridey was born with a tooth just poking through. Good luck.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I am still up-- as in, did not go to sleep last night-- because I have just AWFUL heartburn. Zantac is NOT helping. I can't lay down or it just gets worse. Grrr. I'm gonna try another dose.
On the plus side, one, this is the first time I've forgotten my phenergan but been okay in the morning! No nausea today, woo! And I have only 5 weeks and 2 days (or maybe less!) to go. *sigh*
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
*shyly pokes head into thread*
I, um, guess I'm just the right size?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Congratulations! Of course you are!
When're you due?
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Beginning of November!!!
Enter all sorts of nervous/excited type comments here... ; )
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
OOooooOOooooh! You get to buy CUTE fall/winter baby clothes! I love those little sweaters...
Let me know if you want help picking a car seat, I've been having fun researching alllll kinds. Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Wait - babies need clothes? I thought you just strapped a diaper on and wrapped 'em in a blanket? I kid, I kid... ; )
Oh, trust me, I'll probably be leaning on the Rack with all sorts of silly questions (and I'm sure some not so silly ones occasionally...).
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Actually, I totally did that with my first-- she was born during a heat wave (other than the day we brought her home-- when it was foggy and chilly!), we lived in an apartment with unreliable air conditioning that ran all the time but didn't do much, even the ceiling fans and floor fans didn't get the air moving much, and she had sensory issues and didn't like clothes or swaddles... We pretty much dressed her in a diaper and maybe a onesie unless we were going someplace special, and if we were going out on a windy day we tucked a blanket over her! She was quite content that way... Don't think it would work for a November baby, though! Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Guess I can join too. *grin*
quote:Originally posted by cmc: Beginning of November!!!
Enter all sorts of nervous/excited type comments here... ; )
Hey cmc. I'm due mid-to late November. Yay for November babies!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Congratulations to you too!
Now, November for you is summer, am I right?
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Congrats to the two new pregnant ladies! Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
kq, yep it's spring leading into summer. Not too hot by November, thank goodness.
I guess it means clothes won't be too much of an issue - although with my Mum as a first time grandmother and already having to be forcibly removed from baby stores, I don't think we'll have a problem...
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
My husband's mother can't seem to resist and neither can my aunt, and this is our THIRD GIRL. I think some people just can't be restrained. Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
Congratulations cmc! November babies are the best!
And imogen! I'm so happy it 'took' at last! I know you've been trying about as long as we have, and with similar challenges. Your little one will be born almost exactly a year after ours.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, I take it back about the nausea... It seems to have just migrated to the afternoon/evening...
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Congrats imogen! : ) Pretty cool that the timing's the same - so I'll have a virtual friend to 'compare notes' with. Neat coincidence, my neighbor is pregnant, too... Due the same time. What was in the air around here?!
Speaking of clothes - I'm kicking myself right about now. I lost some weight over the past year or so and had just gotten to the point where I was a certain size and that's the size I was going to stay. So - OF COURSE I went through all my clothes and gave about a gazillion items to Good Will - and promptly scavenged myself some new, good fitting, smaller sized clothes. Too bad I don't have those bigger ones back to save myself some $ on clothes for me... ; )
ketchupqueen - When did you start feeling groodie at times? So far - I feel absolutely normal. It was actually a surprise for me when I even found out...
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Woot! More babies! Congrats, both of you!
Sorry 'bout the ickies, KQ.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I didn't start throwing up until week 12 either pregnancy. Just when normal women are getting over morning sickness mine starts.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
cmc: About 2 days after conception...
My second pregnancy (well, third-- second successful pregnancy that went past a few weeks), though, was so easy it was a total surprise to learn I was pregnant. I could not believe it. Nothing like this one, or my first one. You may just be lucky!
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
KQ, if I remember right with Bridget you were complaining on here of being sick and tired, and everyone was joking that you must be pregnant. You refused until you found out you were. Maybe this is exaggerated in my mind though.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I had heartburn, and I was tired. But I wasn't puking-- I never did puke with her until I got a virus.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Mazel tov, cmc and imogen!!!
I had my first fertility appointment today. I'm seeing a new doc (I love Dr. Slackman, but we're not in Roanoke anymore). We're starting this month, which was a pleasant surprise for me. He's very concerned that I'll get pregnant with multiples again, since I'm a multiple egg producer (and Andrew's guys are good movers and shakers). Unfortunately, there's nothing we can do to prevent it b/c we're not doing IVF. We'll just have to leave it in G-d's hands. I have my OB appointment in 2 weeks and she'll set up the appt. with my perinatologist and we'll start to implement the measures to get the baby (babies) to term.
This time is so different. I'm just totally relaxed - whatever happens, we have Aerin. Andrew was relaxed the last time, but he's really nervous about multiples this time. Reproductive and perinatal technology moves so fast that there are a lot of things that can help me that weren't available just 3 years ago. Hooray for medical science!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Hooray, Kira!
That is so exciting!
Posted by Derrell (Member # 6062) on :
Best wishes for a successful pregnancy.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
So - I was talking to my Godmother and told her about the whole new addition thing (i'm only telling my parents and, because one brother was with my dad when i told him and he's going to see another brother this weekend so i didn't want him to have to keep a secret, cause he's no good at it... two brothers until some more time passes)... and we were talking about pregnancies in the family and all that...
A few years ago my Mom was a surrogate for one of my Aunts who had all kinds of problems with fertility and then after IVF had ectopic pregnancies... Now my dumb, constantly over-thinking mind is freaked out about this little cell-blob being in the right place...
Someone wanna fast forward to the 10th of next month so the ultrasound will show where it's attached itself?
(sorry for the rambling, hopefully this makes sense)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
cmc, it'll be okay. Really, ectopic pregnancies are rarer than you would think. You're fine. Just keep telling yourself that, it's not good for you to freak out.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(And likely, you would know before the u/s next month if it was ectopic. Really.)
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
That's pretty much what I'm tellin' myself in my head... 'cause really freaking out won't change anything that already is! Thanks for the outside voice of reason, though... ; )
On a different note - I'm not really a meat eater. There's no real reason for it, just that I don't really like it for some reason. Well - the beef bologna looked so good when I was shopping today that I had to get some from the deli. And I ate it. And it was GOOD. Pretty sure I'll be eating more of THAT...
edit: really? how would you know? i'm kind of clueless - i didn't ask my aunt any questions about it because it was sort of devastating for her...
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by cmc: edit: really? how would you know? i'm kind of clueless - i didn't ask my aunt any questions about it because it was sort of devastating for her...
Sharp, stabbing pain in the lower abdomen. Which is (one of the reasons) why any women in the early stages of pregnancy who experiences that should call her doctor IMMEDIATELY, and if that's not possible go to an emergency room. (Other symptoms.)
But kq is right. Ectopics are very rare, thank goodness.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Sharp pain and bleeding.
But it is very, very rare. You are more than likely fine. I understand worrying about it anyway, though. It was one of my irrational fears the first time around too.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Thanks for the link, rivka...
Considering I feel totally normal - I'm probably just being a worry-wart. Thanks for letting me know I'm not alone in my irrationality, dkw.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
My aunt had two ectopic pregnancies which left her infertile. One of my friends said that endometriosis is linked with higher rates of ectopic pregnancy, so I was worried. Thankfully, I had no problems and neither did any of my cousins.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I've heard the endometriosis thing too-- but I've also heard that better predictors are having had a previous ectopic pregnancy and your mother (not other relatives-- it doesn't seem to matter as much) having had one.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I just called my OB to make an appt and had the following conversation w/ the receptionist:
Kira: Hi, this is Kira Marx. I'm a patient of Dr. Davis. Vicki: Hey, Kira, this is Vicki. Kira: Oh, hey, Vicki! Is the remodeling finished yet? [a conversation about remodeling and Aerin follows, which I will spare y'all] I saw Dr. Rosenberg yesterday. Vicki: Oh, fantastic! Kira: Yeah, he said we're good to go for this month, so I... Vicki [interrupting]: Oh good gracious, we've got to get you in here! Monday at 10. Are you going to bring that precious angel? [another conversation about Aerin, then about insurance follows]
I'm just amused by the silver linings of being ultra-high-risk. And the ironies - I'm praying for morning sickness. I had almost none w/ Aerin.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Best of luck, Mrs M!
Cmc - heh, I had amazing red meat cravings all last week. We ate steak, steak, lamb, steak, lamb, steak.
I also can't wait for my 12 week ultrasound (another 7 weeks - the peril of finding out early I guess): because this is a clomid pregnancy, there's an increased chance of multiples. Twins would be ok (but I wouldn't be able to go with the midwife program I want to) but triplets....
The odds are still for a single pregnancy though.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Such exciting stuff!! Congrats imogen, cmc and Mrs.M! May you all not have nasty morning sickness!!
I think every pregnant woman gets worried about all kinds of things that we really shouldn't worry about. I remember being worried about ectopic pregnancy (my mother had one and almost died), being worried when the doc couldn't hear a heartbeat at what we thought was 12 weeks (turned out it was 9 weeks), being worried about horrible defects or problems from the relatively safe anti-nausea meds I was on, being worried about still birth in the last month when she'd go more than about an hour without moving (she was super active), and on and on and on. As long as you don't obsess or have anxiety attacks or anything, I think it's all normal and fine. I guess all the worrying is our introduction into the life-time of worrying that being a mother means. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Back from my ultrasound!
Baby is 4.5 lbs.-- right on track for 34 weeks!
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
imogen - SO good. We had turkey bacon with breakfast this morning, too... mmmmmmmmmmm
This makes me wonder if the, um, throwing up of my lower intestines (to put it nicely) is because of that or just my body's version of 'morning sickness'. Sorry for the tmi...
ketchupqueen - NICE! ; )
edit: 'that' being the increased animal consumption...
[ March 21, 2008, 03:57 PM: Message edited by: cmc ]
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Is it common practice to get an u/s in the last trimester? As far as I know, I won't have one unless the doctor thinks there's a problem.
I'm pretty sure everything is going well, though. This baby doesn't exactly stop kicking long enough for me to wonder if she's ok in there!
A little under 10 more weeks to go for me and I'm finally starting to get things ready. Still haven't packed for the hospital (although I should think about that soon), but I'm getting some clothes and diapers. (I'm switching to cloth -- started it on my 2-year-old a couple of months ago and am surprised to find out that I like it.) I also got a ring sling for this baby to help me keep my hands free.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Standard for normal pregnancies is one ultrasound at 20 weeks.
That's all I had with John, but we're having one at 28 weeks with Thing 2 because I'm over 35 this time around, and the doctor wants to do a Level II since I declined pretty much all the other "high risk" testing.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Actually, standard practice at MY doctor is 2 ultrasounds, one at 20 weeks-ish and one at 34 to 36. And one to date the pregnancy if you have irregular periods or no periods. So generally 3 for me, and that's with no complications.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Some doctors also do late ultrasounds in lieu of (or in addition to) non-stress tests. Mine did.
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
I didn't have a late ultrasound or a non-stress test. *shrug*
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Were you almost two weeks overdue? *twinkle*
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
oops...
I misunderstood your post.
Carry on.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I actually got late u/s with my first, but that was because I measured small (same thing this time, but now I'm supremely unconcerned about it). I was pretty sure that she didn't do it as a matter of course and for this pregnancy (new doctor), I've explained that I consistently measure up to 3 cm. below my week and that unless the heartbeat drops or the baby stops kicking, I'm just expecting another 6 pounder.
9 weeks and counting....tick....tock....tick...tock...
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
See, my doctor even mentioned when he didn't get the gender shot at the 20 week u/s, "Well, we'll be doing another ultrasound later, we can see if we can check then." (We went for the 4D vanity place so we would know, of course, 'cause KPC REALLY wanted to know. And it was his birthday.) But anyway, that (along with the fact that I've seen lots of 34-36 week women come in with videotapes in hand, and I got one my last pregnancy even though I'd just had a high-res u/s a month before, in addition to one at 17 weeks) leads me to think that he just always does it.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
My OB appt. was sobering. My cervix is very incompetent, making the cerclage (cervical stitch) riskier than it otherwise would be. We are still going to do it, because I have about 0.00% chance of going anywhere near term without it. There are several different types of cerclage, each with its own risks and benefits, so we will make that decision when the time comes. This also makes my having multiples even riskier.
We cultured for GBS (strep-B). If I'm positive, I'll get prophylactic antibiotics. I cannot have a VBAC (ever) because of the way Dr. Davis had to get Aerin. I'm fine with that - I had a fantastic recovery and it was the only way Aerin could have lived. I don't mind having another. My file is so thick that it couldn't fit into the file holder on the exam room door. I felt strangely proud.
How do you ask people to pray for your cervix? That's got to be the grossest prayer ever.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Not so-- asking people to pray for your hemmrhoids would be grosser.
I'm quite happy to pray for your cervix!
Posted by Jhai (Member # 5633) on :
Question: what do you all wish your extended family members would do while you're pregnant? Or what are the awesome things they have done?
My husband's sister-in-law is about 8 weeks along. My husband and his older brother (11 years age difference) often have little (or not so little) spats that strain our relationship with them. I don't want the pregnancy to be another bickering point, so I'm wondering if I can get pointers from all you lovely ladies on cool things we could do or say to them to show our love & support. We're on the other side of the country, though, so they'd have to be things possible at a distance...
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Find out what she's craving and send her some. (My daddy buys me See's.) But wait until morning sickness subsides a little if she's struggling too much with that.
Send them a gift card for Babies R Us if you can afford it. I love the books and gifts and hand-me-downs I was given but every once in a while it was really nice to get a gift card (and I would never normally shop there 'cause they are expensive) and choose whatever we wanted instead. And some people did it for no reason, not a birthday or Christmas but "we just thought you might like to pick something out for the baby" and it was really sweet. And I got to get things that I WANTED but didn't NEED and so wouldn't have made room in a budget for, that way.
And if she wants to complain about how crappy she's feeling, actually listen, offer sympathy (not comparing it to ANYTHING else but just, "Oh, that stinks!") and not offer advice, just listen and not act like you'd rather not hear it (even if you'd rather not hear it. )
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
My thoughts are with your cervix, Mrs M. Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
*praying for Mrs. M's cervix* And I wanted you to know--I had read bits of your blog about Aerin before I even got pregnant. When I had my preemie, remembering Aerin's story really encouraged me. Thanks for sharing it.
I had ultrasounds all of the time toward the end (as I became more high risk)--I have u/s pictures of Nathaniel floating all over the house, in the car, as bookmarks...
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
When I was pregnant with John it was a milestone and a relief when he was as old as Aerin was when she was born. I remember thinking, "well, if something happens now he's as old as Aerin was and she made it."
Tommorrow Thing 2 will hit that milestone.
I also shared Aerin's story with a family that had a 2lb premie girl. They'd never heard of any baby that small surviving, so they were encouraged. (She was born in January, and she's still in the hospital but doing well. She had to have surgery last month to close a hole in her heart, but came through it fine.)
We'll be praying for you too, and I agree that I can think of much grosser things to pray for than a cervix!
Posted by Fractal Fraggle (Member # 9803) on :
quote:Originally posted by Jhai: Question: what do you all wish your extended family members would do while you're pregnant? Or what are the awesome things they have done?
My husband's sister-in-law is about 8 weeks along. My husband and his older brother (11 years age difference) often have little (or not so little) spats that strain our relationship with them. I don't want the pregnancy to be another bickering point, so I'm wondering if I can get pointers from all you lovely ladies on cool things we could do or say to them to show our love & support. We're on the other side of the country, though, so they'd have to be things possible at a distance...
The best thing my mom did is sending me a box of maternity clothes. This is my first pregnancy and I hate shopping so I was running out of clothes that fit when I get a box of clothes in the mail. It was awesome.
I guess this only works if you feel comfortable shopping for your husband's sister in law or can afford to send a gift certificate.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Mrs. M -- I have no problem praying for your cervix. Consider your request made and accepted.
dkw -- "Thing 2" makes me laugh.
My first baby was full term so I'm not sure where that over the hill point is. I'm at 31 weeks and my niece was born at 32 weeks and she's ok so I'm thinking I may be there. (Not that I wouldn't love another full term baby.)
Question: I can't remember from my first pregnancy, but at what point do you stop feeling the baby move as much? This little girl was aiming to be on a professional soccer team and for the past couple of weeks her efforts are so halfhearted. I've gone hours without feeling a thing. I'm sure I'm being paranoid...there's less room in there, after all...but I've also been having Braxton Hicks starting at the same time.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I've been told that 34 weeks is the point where if the baby comes early but there's nothing else wrong with it but prematurity, it's almost guaranteed survival with very few complications, as long as it's born in a hospital with swift access to care.
As for kicking less-- at this point in the pregnancy, yeah, it's normal for the baby to sleep for a few hours, then kick up a storm later, then sleep again periodically. You do want the baby to sleep, don't you? Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(Also, as she turns around to face different ways, it's quite normal to feel the kicks less, even if they're the same strength and rate.)
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: I've been told that 34 weeks is the point where if the baby comes early but there's nothing else wrong with it but prematurity, it's almost guaranteed survival with very few complications, as long as it's born in a hospital with swift access to care.
As for kicking less-- at this point in the pregnancy, yeah, it's normal for the baby to sleep for a few hours, then kick up a storm later, then sleep again periodically. You do want the baby to sleep, don't you?
Well, yeah, I want her to sleep, but I want her to sleep at NIGHT time, not during the day! She's got it all backwards. (I feel her mostly in the evening and, I suspect, at night while I'm asleep and unaware.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, moving around often puts them to sleep while they're in utero. After a few months out they get over that. (Usually. )
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I am feeling so cruddy tonight. I have a headache, I'm swollen and puffy, I'm exhausted, and I am feeling despondent on top of it. I just want this to be over. *sigh*
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
*hug*
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I'm starting to feel short of breath because I just don't have enough lung capacity sometimes. Ugh.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Um, I'm still quite tired?
(Complaints at 5 1/2 weeks just don't stack up.... )
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Really? I was puking my guts out by that point 2 of my pregnancies. Good for you you're not.
At least my contractions are slowing down... For a few hours tonight they were every 4 minutes and painful. Stupid irritable uterus.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
No puking so far. Very very slight nausea, but only fleeting. Of course, it could still develop.
My mother never threw up in any of her pregnancies, so I'm hoping I've inherited that tendency.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Heh. Neither did my mother. A fact that she mentioned frequently when I was pregnant with John.
Good luck with that, though. Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by imogen:
Um, I'm still quite tired?
(Complaints at 5 1/2 weeks just don't stack up.... )
LOL! Not in my house! I had already started getting bad headaches at that time...by 6-7 weeks they were full-blown migraines that kept me hiding from the light for weeks. For me, the first trimester is the worst part of pregnancy and you're typically not even far enough along for people to really care (assuming you've even told them).
The biggest problem (for me) in the third trimester is the endless waiting. Every day I check the calendar. Yeah, I have reduced lung capacity, but that could also be because I've let myself get out of shape.
Speaking of which, how far should I push myself exercise-wise in the last few weeks of a pregnancy? The weather is getting nice and I want to go take a walk but I've been clutching my side in agony after a couple of blocks. (Yeah, I know, I'm REALLY out of shape.) I would really like to get my blood flowing through my veins again because it'll just be that much harder to do this summer with a baby and 100 degree heat.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
quote:Um, I'm still quite tired?
I had a very pleasant first trimester. I was tired and had a bit of queasiness--particularly if I didn't eat enough--but no headaches and no vomiting, and the queasiness didn't really interfere with my regular life. The tiredness did--I would come home from work at 4:30 and lie on the couch until bedtime at say, 7:30 PM. I remember that I would sometimes realize that I'd forgotten to take my prenatal in the morning, so I'd take it with dinner. The directions said you weren't supposed to lie down for 30 minutes after taking it, and those 30 minutes would sometimes be soooo hard. But I'll take that over vomiting any day.
quote:Speaking of which, how far should I push myself exercise-wise in the last few weeks of a pregnancy?
Someone will probably answer who knows more than me...what I do know is that you're not supposed to *start* anything rigorous during pregnancy. My doctor told me I could do whatever I wanted as long as I didn't break a sweat--which is why he recommended water activities and walking, as long as it wasn't too hot outside.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Walking is probably the extent of what I'm thinking, especially since I can't even manage that without getting winded at the moment. I just really got so out of shape. I had migraines for the first trimester. It was cold during the second. And now I find myself in a position where I just haven't moved much in half a year.
I have a Dr's appointment tomorrow. I think I'll bring it up...it only just occurred to me while I was typing that post.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I have found lately as the weather gets better that walking every day that I feel up to it (not far; usually just to the little store nearby and/or the park, with the kids) keeps the Maggie Monster off my sciatic nerve. This is helpful.
I can't wait for it to be warm enough that I can swim (if my husband ever FINDS MY MATERNITY CLOTHES, including my swimsuit... Or buys me a new one.)
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I had a maternity swim suit but it's...how shall I put it...not fit for public? My husband loves it, especially the feature where if I try to swim forward, the top comes down.
Our neighborhood pool opens the weekend I'm due so I'll probably just buy a cheap, larger than normal size swim suit this June.
Hmmmm...by the time my son went to the pool he went long enough between nursing that it wasn't an issue, but for a newborn...anyone ever tried to nurse in a swimsuit? I wonder how that would work?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I've done it! Towel over the shoulder, pull down the side you wanna nurse on. Easy peasy. But they also sell nursing swimsuits.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: I've done it! Towel over the shoulder, pull down the side you wanna nurse on.
Ditto.
Posted by Jhai (Member # 5633) on :
Thanks for the advice guys - sorry that I have none to add in this thread (yet).
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, and I've also just thrown on a t-shirt I brought for a cover-up, pulled up the side I wanted to use, pulled down the swimsuit (like you would nursing in a big t-shirt and bra.)
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I like the t-shirt idea, thanks! For some reason, I never could get a blanket (by extension, towel) to stay up and then after about 3 months, my son started wrestling me for it! I was thinking of trying to use my ring sling, but it's nice and I don't want the chlorine to mess it up. (I actually get in the water when I go to the pool. )
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I was told that walking was excellent exercise during pregnancy, especially as you get towards the end. Sometimes I would just walk in circles around my house (and up and down my stairs). It's hard with a baby impinging on your lung space, but as long as you don't push yourself too hard, you should do fine. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, and walking also helps get the baby in a good position a lot of the time.
I have a Solarveil ring sling that I fully intend to use in the pool!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, and to clarify, I don't use the towel as a "coverup"-- neither my babies nor I can tolerate that. I use the towel to cover my shoulder so as to not be exposed, but don't cover the baby at all.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
And here comes the crazy. The uncontrollable weeping and laughing are back. They're actually worse this time b/c I'm in much better shape than when we did this the last time and my PCOS is much, much more under control. I'm managing to keep it away from Aerin by doubling up on Andrew and my mother.
Has anyone tried a Hooter Hider or any of those nursing cover-ups?
Also, and I'll post this on the new baby thread, I found the nursing nightgowns to be impossible to wear. I pumped every 3 hours, so I had to have something easy to open. Well, I started out as a DD and went up to an F in my first trimester. You don't want to know where I ended up. The na-na holes in the nursing nighties were too small for me, even in the biggest size (which was like a tent everywhere else). The saleslady and my mother wouldn't believe me until I showed them. It's funny not, but it wasn't then. Fortunately, my cousin sent me a beautiful regular nightie that happened to button half way down and it was perfect. So I just bought a bunch of inexpensive regular nighties that buttoned.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I replied to that on the other thread...
Personally I've tried a few kinds of covers and hate them all. I am not uncomfortable NIP without a cover, luckily. Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I LOVED my hooter hider. Though eventually monster got too fussy for that. But don't buy a hooter hider from any of those sites on the internet. They are ridiculously easy to make. That was the first thing I sewed. I am not a good seamstress and I am sure that if you look at mine, you can find errors, but it worked. If you need one and don't sew, if you send me a yard of fabric and a half yard of boning, I can sew one for you (I don't trust my taste in fabric to pick out fabric for anyone but me). My friend made a really cute one that was brown with a pink ribbon as a border.
edit- actually, I could pick up the boning myself.
Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
I am four days away from my due date and I have yet to feel anything different from what I have felt pretty much the entire third trimester. My hips hurt a little and I tire out easily but no contractions and no more than usual pelvic pain. Is this normal? I feel like this baby might never want to come out and isn't making any progress. I go back to the Dr. tomorrow so hopefully she will have some answers too. Last week she just told me that first babies can be slow coming and to keep waiting. I just want to know that Eliza will eventually want to COME OUT!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I feel for you theresa! I didn't feel much difference from day to day for the last few weeks. One way or another she will come out (and sooner than you think, even though it does seem like it's taking forever while you're living minute to minute waiting), promise!
I hope everything will go well for you!!
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
No help, but I wanted to tell you that I love the name Eliza. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
quote:Originally posted by Mrs.M: Well, I started out as a DD and went up to an F in my first trimester. You don't want to know where I ended up.
I'm a little concerned about this. I'm a (disproportionate) 14DD/E now. I don't really want growth in this area.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by scholarette: I LOVED my hooter hider. Though eventually monster got too fussy for that. But don't buy a hooter hider from any of those sites on the internet. They are ridiculously easy to make. That was the first thing I sewed. I am not a good seamstress and I am sure that if you look at mine, you can find errors, but it worked.
My mom made some for me, each from a receiving blanket and some binding tape. Worked great.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Awww, poor theresa!
imogen, I started out a 38 D when I got married-- big on a girl my size. My whole pregnancy I went up, when nursing I went up more. I finally settled down about a 40 DD after my first pregnancy. Unfortunately, that has repeated each pregnancy-- I go up 1-2 inches in band size, 1-2 cup sizes as well, and it does not go back down. *sigh* I am starting to envy those women who say they wish their B-cups would stay big when they stop nursing instead of returning to their regular size, lol...
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Rats. So it sounds like maternity bras will be a must buy.
I read that underwire is not recommended - has anyone else heard this, or worn underwire throughout pregnancy?
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I haven't nursed for almost two months and I still haven't shrunk at all. I hate it. I am a 36H, which is imposible to shop for. Shirts with any fitting are either way too small on top or to big on bottom. Even my husband thinks they are too big. My doctor said be patient, but I want shrinkage now.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I never shrink at all ever, except from the "first few weeks engorgement" stage. And I can't ever stand underwires but I know some women who have to have them. (My SPD and underwires do not mix-- not to mention the fact that my breasts are, well, odd-shaped and underwires cut into them.)
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I didn't ever buy maternity bras. I bought one nursing bra ahead of time, one size larger than my normal bras, assuming I'd buy more in whatever size I needed once my milk came in. One size larger turned out to be what I needed, so I bought more that same size. (I also started as a DD, and was afraid I'd go up much more than I did.)
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
I got a little bigger (36C to 38D) at the beginning of my pregnancy, then never got bigger than that except when engorged.
I'm avoiding underwire because of the risk of plugged ducts/ mastitis (or at least I think that's why I'm avoiding them). I've never seen an underwire nursing bra. I don't doubt their existence--just haven't come across one.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I've never seen bras in my size *without* underwire! But I haven't looked at any nursing/maternity bras yet.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, they sell them! You usually find them online, but Motherhood carries them too.
I actually have trouble sometimes finding NON-underwire nursing bras in my size (I never buy maternity either, just nursing.)
Personally, I prefer sleep/lounge nursing bras for everyday wear. Problem is I have a hard time finding ones I like in my size. Most brands don't MAKE sleep bras in my size. But I just found this site and I'm ordering one while they're on sale, if I like it I'm gonna order more (with the 10% repeat customer discount): http://breakoutbras.stores.yahoo.net/cst.html
They have several styles of lounge/nursing bra in my size that I haven't tried, and cheap (in addition to the "big names.")
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Breakout Bras is awesome. I have been ordering from them for years. And the owner is really nice -- I once needed her to change the mailing address and shipping speed after I had placed the order, and she did so ASAP. Called me to check a couple details, and then overnighted them.
Made my brother's wedding much more comfortable. Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
imogen, try motherwear. I just ordered a batch of new nursing bras and none of them are underwire. Their "great support" softcup bra is my fav so far, but I'll reveiw the others soon.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Good to hear!
I love that they carry styles I can't find ANYWHERE else (most places carry one, at most 2, styles of sleep nursing bra, and neither of them in my size.)
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I order from breakout bras as well. Been very happy with them. Cheapest for my size.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Well, poo. They have some of the same bras I just bought at about 1/2 the price. You couldn't have posted that link last week?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I have posted it before. Although it's probably been awhile.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
I buy my bras at the Bust Stop. Surprisingly, they had nice nursing bras that fit me this time around for about $35 each. (The last 3 kids, bras have been about $80 each, so this was awesome.) Their staff is awesome, and they can make custom bras (for those of us with asymmetry and other issues).
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
They have some that the other does not. But they have no free shipping, and the ones I like about about 15% more than the price I get from the other even before my 10% off.
OTOH, they have a much larger selection of nursing bras. Should that ever be an issue for me again, I will definitely check them out. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Man. I want some tabbouleh SO BAD right now. And I don't want to make it (making it would involve cleaning my kitchen, washing some dishes, then walking to the store to get parsley and tomatoes-- I have onions, lemon, olive oil, and bulghur-- then actually MAKING it, then letting it sit a few hours to make it taste all better and stuff.) And the nearest place that sells it is a reasonable walk away (same as the nearest little grocery store) but I don't have cash and they are cash-only, and the nearest ATM is farther than I want to walk... Darned unfulfillable cravings. Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I'm about ready to give up and order nursing bras on-line. I tried to find them live, but the stores that carried them didn't carry my size...whatever that is. I had hoped, at least, to figure that part out. Turns out it depends upon the bra. So I really need to find a place to order from that will let me send it back if I try it on and it's the wrong size.
Posted by theCrowsWife (Member # 8302) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: Man. I want some tabbouleh SO BAD right now.
Heh. Too bad you weren't at our house last weekend. We had buckets of the stuff left over from the Seder meal.
--Mel
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Seder on Purim with chametz. *head asplodes*
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
*grin*
Some of the folks in my congregation think I'm a bit of a poopy-head becasue I actively discourage their idea of a "seder" during Holy Week every year. So far no one's done it anyway, though, so I must be making some sense.
The most recent one was the woman planning the good friday breakfast -- "I know! We could have like a, whatdayacallit, a seder!"
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Starting clomid today. Pelvic ultrasound Monday.
I've been having really vivid dreams, which always happens when I'm especially hormonal. This is freaking me out, because of the multiple egg situation. Luckily I have lots of ironing and knitting, so that should keep me calm for the weekend.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Grats, Mrs.M!
If it would help anyone, The Bust Stop is a local store for me, so I could facilitate cheap shipping and returns. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I am starting on the horrible dreams as well. Labor dreams. I had one this morning that doesn't seem THAT horrible now, but at the time I woke up sweating and almost crying.
I was in for my induction-- but for some reason KPC was not there, I didn't know where my kids were or who they were with, my doctor was not there, the on-call resident was instead, the anesthesiologist wasn't listening to me when I said that I was allergic to rubbing alcohol, I told the doctor (again not mine, the resident) I didn't want my water broken yet because I could tell that the baby's head wasn't in the right position, he poked my tummy, assured me it was, and broke my water anyway, and then to top it all off I didn't have any of my stuff-- the bags weren't even packed (I don't remember why) and I didn't have my music and I didn't have my clothes and I didn't have my husband and I was just freaking out!
Yeah, bad dream.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
My. Chest. Is. So. Sore. It's. Ridiculous.
That's my only complaint so far.
13 days until my first ultrasound... I'm thinking that's going to be pretty cool. There's a running joke with my brother's fiance that I'm going to have twins. We went skydiving a few weeks ago (yeah, before I knew I was pregnant) and she swears the drop made the thing split in two. Jokes, of course, but we get a laugh out of it... This kid's going to be able to say they've been skydiving and driven in a nascar car. Sheesh. And I had to wait 28 years... ; )
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
That is a terrible dream. I just dreamed a few days ago that I delivered my baby, but it was a girl (the US showed unmistakable boy parts) and I knew I was supposed to name her Paige. Also, she could talk.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I dreamed Maggie before we got pregnant. I knew I was going to have a girl next, despite Jeff's desparate hope ( ) and the fact that she wouldn't let us know when the doctor tried to check, and even my lack of "girl feelings." In the back of my mind, I think I knew. And her name is Maggie because of that dream. Now what will be funny is if she comes out looking like that dream.
Now I just wish she would stop kicking me in the cervix. I have the world's most sensitive cervix to begin with (according to my doctor) and this is NOT HELPING.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, I finally found my measuring tape and ordered those new sleep/lounge bras. I ordered one each of 2 styles, and figure that if I like one or the other (or both) I'll order more after the baby comes (since my size may be different-- sleep bras are pretty size-forgiving, but you never know), with my 10% off. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Well I had a weird pregnancy dream last night - but not about me.
Kq, I dreamt that you had three children - you had had a boy late last year, called Robbie. (I know that doesn't work date wise - dream logic). And I kept forgetting and thinking Maggie would be your third, and you had to keep correcting me.
And then I dreamt about grapes.
Odd.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
What's funny is that I was pregnant in Dec., imogen. And miscarried.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Did you post about that? Maybe the dark recesses of my memory knew - it's amazing what can get dredged up and expanded on in dreams.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:Originally posted by imogen: Did you post about that? Maybe the dark recesses of my memory knew - it's amazing what can get dredged up and expanded on in dreams.
Very, very briefly. Here and there.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
After about 3 weeks of not moving much, the baby suddenly started moving more in the last 2 days -- almost back to where she was. The movements are more rolly than before, but the frequency is once again high, especially when I eat, and I get those reassuring feelings all day long.
I'm not sure why she quit for 3 weeks. Maybe she was going through a growth spurt and got sleepy.
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
This is a random question in regards to my neighbor and not me. (Just wanted to make that clear.)
Anyway. Did/do any of you find yourselves turning up the heat/wanting it really warm in your house or apartment at night?
You know, when most people want it a little cooler?
I ask because the heat controller thing controls heat for our apartment and theirs, and they constantly want me to turn it up, especially at night. So it's unbearably warm over here.
However, I am making myself not be resentful, because in two months, my neighbor will be having a baby.
But I have found myself wondering if this is a common thing.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Interesting! I was unbearably warm for my pregnancy so I was constantly turning the thermostat down (and fans on and less clothes, etc.). Being pregnant for the entirety of summer in Phoenix wasn't fun. I joked that I carried around my very own portable heater everywhere.
I'm surprised that she doesn't just wear warmer clothing (more blankets, etc.) rather than turning up the thermostat... You are an awesome neighbor though for doing it and not being resentful over it!
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I was constantly overheated the first time and am usually cold this time. Although right now that might have more to do with getting over the flu -- I'm stil having bouts of the shivers.
I think that pregnancy messes with your internal thermostat, but not in a predictable way.
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
I'd tell her to get a blanket - I cannot sleep if I'm too hot.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Actually, I get hot flashes sometimes when I'm pregnant so it's just the opposite. There are nights when I kick off all the covers and turn on the fan.
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
I had the hot flashes when I was pregnant, too. I really never got cold--especially at night.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Ugh. I was hot all the time, too. Usually I'm cold, so it was weird. I kept pushing my husband away from my side of the bed when normally I'm trying to glom onto his body heat.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I get hot AND cold flashes the third trimester. And sometimes I get the shivers but CANNOT STAND blankets or constrictive clothing. It's so fun...
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Ok, I bought some maternity bras today. (My regular ones are too uncomfortable already).
Properly fitted etc - the two that fit were a 34G and a 36F. And it's only 7 weeks....
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
quote:Originally posted by imogen: Ok, I bought some maternity bras today. (My regular ones are too uncomfortable already).
Properly fitted etc - the two that fit were a 34G and a 36F. And it's only 7 weeks....
A little bigger and you'll be the same size as me. And they haven't shrunk!!!!! Two months without breastfeeding and there still the exact same size.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Takes at least 6-12 months without breastfeeding to shrink noticeably. If then. Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
So, there is still hope! (My friends deflate like the day after they wean so I was expecting something like that).
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
How long it takes depends upon a lot of things...how long you nursed, how suddenly you quit, and of course, there's the "every woman is different" wildcard.
My breasts went back to pre-pregnancy shape and size while I was still nursing....somewhere between 9 and 12 months. I continued nursing until almost 17 months with normal size breasts (for me...mind start at D/E).
Also, with my first pregnancy all my sizing up (2 sizes) happened in the first trimester...I never got bigger in the 2nd, 34d, or even after the baby was born and my milk came in. So you just never know...
So far, this pregnancy is following much the same pattern.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
And then, some women don't shrink at all. Ask Boon.
I am really looking forward to the end of this. I am in EXCRUTIATING pain in my hips at this point, especially when rolling over, moving, walking, or, you know, anything but sitting or lying still. I can't do anything without such pain that I'm trying not to do anything. Owwww. I did NOT have this with the last two.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I never shrunk at all. I'm still waiting. I also only got bigger in my first trimester - I didn't go up hardly at all when my milk came in.
So... I have 3 follicles. Last time I had 3 follicles, I got pregnant with triplets. I wouldn't say that I'm panicking exactly.
My fertility has improved - I am on 1/2 the doses I was on last time with the same results. I am in much better shape, which I didn't realize would make such a dramatic difference. I shudder to think how many follicles there'd be with the full dose. Dr. Rosenberg was thrown by my reaction. Usually, people are thrilled by 3 follicles and he could tell I was, um, unsettled.
In other news, I am on antibiotics for the strep-B colony in my womb. They leave a horrid taste in your mouth and it's driving me crazy, but the babies will implant in bacteria-free tissue. He measured my cervix and it's not as bad as we thought, which is good. I wept hysterically for about 30 minutes last night because I miss my nanny, whom I haven't allowed myself to think about since she passed away 10 years ago. Hormones are crummy.
So many follicles. Not going to freak out.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
(((Mrs. M)))
We had a perinatalogist appointment yesterday (just one, for a level II ultrasound and consult since I'm over 35) and there were hundreds of pictures of former patients, lots of them with multiples. I noticed at least two sets of quints and lots and lots of twins and triplets. I'm sure your doctors will be able to handle whatever happens. But I hope for your sake that you end up concieving just one healthy baby. (Unless you're actually hoping for multiples.)
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
So, how many follicles are normal? How often do three follicles lead to three babies? (sorry, I am not that well informed on this stuff).
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
(((Mrs M)))
It's good news about your fertility and cervix though. Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Thanks, y'all. I'm feeling a bit calmer, but still wigged.
scholarette, from a fertility standpoint, 3 follicles (and these are big ones, too) is an optimim result. It's actually still pretty rare for a woman to conceive multiples, even with fertility treatments. I have a much higher chance because each of my pregnancies has been multiples. I have no idea how many follicles are normal for a healthy, adult woman. I think just one, but I definitely could be wrong.
I spoke to my OB today. She called to talk about the results of my strep test (the antibiotic I'm on is working). I told her about the follicles and her exact words were, "Don't do this to me." I said, "I know," and we both cracked up. It's nice to have a close relationship with your doctor.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I need to find the reference again, but when I was reading up on fertility awareness I learned that 10% of the time, a woman drops two eggs in a cycle. (This is partly why if you are using the basal body temperature method to avoid conception, you need to wait to see 3 days of increased temperature.) Yet natural twinning only occurs about 1% of the time. I don't know if the second egg gets fertilized but doesn't thrive or if only one egg gets fertilized...but I thought it was interesting anyway.
Here we go...this is from the American Pregnancy Association:
"A woman cannot ovulate more than once during each cycle, therefore she cannot get pregnant more than once during a cycle. Multiple ovulation can occur and is when two or more eggs are released in a single cycle. Both eggs are released during one 24 hour period and are responsible for the birth of fraternal twins. It is believed that this may occur in as many as 5-10% of all cycles but does not result in that many twins due to a type of miscarriage referred to as the “vanishing twin phenomenon.”"
I think that multiple follicles develop during a normal menstrual cycle, but usually only the "ripest" one actualy releases an egg. That's one of the things that fertility drugs change, IIRC -- they encourage multiple follicles to release their eggs.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Owwwww.
It now hurts not only to walk, but to sit up, roll over, or any other kind of movement that involves the hips.
I am going to go get my EPO (started it last night, I'm officially full-term tomorrow, and at my appt. my doctor said we can probably schedule my induction! Good, 'cause I am in extreme, extreme pain, and having an end date might help!)
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I have to tell you, this late in the game (almost 24 weeks) the temptation to schedule and induction and get it over with is very tempting! Among other things, I could have my parents in town and not have to worry about last-minute calling down the list of 10 people who have volunteered to help if they can.
But I won't do it. I'd rather wait until the baby decides it's time to leave.
Poke...poke...ready yet?
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
If my first baby ended up being induced, (assuming I ever had a second), would they let me just schedule an induction or would they make me wait again?
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
scholarette: I think every pregnancy is taken on a case by case basis. With a c-section, if you want a repeat c-section and don't want to try VBAC, you're very likely to be able to schedule a new c-section early on. Inductions are a milder intervention and usually just because one was medically indicated the first time, there's no reason to suppose it will be again.
I actually had an induction scheduled with my first (that turned out to be unnecessary as I went into real labor the very same day) but have not even broached the subject with my doctor this time. I think I jumped the gun the first time and don't plan to schedule with this one unless we swing by week 41 with no end in sight.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I had 2 weeks of contractions every 10 minutes before they agreed to induce me the first time. I told my new doctor about that, and when the same cx every 10 minutes started, I said, "I don't want to wait 2 weeks this time!" He agreed and let me be induced 2 days later. This time I just said, "I'm very comfortable with induction, I'd like to be induced at 39 weeks, please." He said, "Okay. We can schedule that about 37 weeks, probably."
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
My contractions were weird. They were more constant, like menstrual cramps. When I was induced and watched the timing, I started to feel the rise and flow, but in general, it just hurt non stop, for like a month. The idea of doing that again is terrifying.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Exactly.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Met the doctor (one of the two at this practice, my appt next month is with the other guy) today and all that fun stuff. He did the pelvic exam and told me I'd pretty much be good even with an 11 lb baby... (my family makes big babies, but i'm little compared to everyone. for example - mom's 5'11'' - i'm only 5'4''). The kid's in the right spot, so you guys were right. ; ) My worrying was just that - worry, of the needless variety no less...
Heart rate was good - I think he said 150. I was sort of transfixed by the screen at that point... Looks like a little sea horse! The doc also said I'm less far along than original thought - so right now I'm at 7 weeks... He pushed my due date to 11/25...
I think that's about it for now. Oh - he put me on folic acid because I've got a cousin with spina biphida. He said that it's more 'being more safe than sorry'... He just figured where I ended up being less far along and it might make a difference, it's certainly not going to hurt to take it.
That's about it until next month. Oh - except the whole 'sickness' thing. Sucks. AND it makes no sense. Totally random - and I can't figure one thing that makes it worse. I've been trying to do the whole eat a little all the time thing - so we'll see what happens. He told me not to sweat it, but if it gets really bad he'll call something in for nausea.
That's all I got... : )
Mrs.M - Congrats on everything working (maybe too well for your liking ; ) ) out as it is so far! : ) So - are you doing IVF? Tell me to buzz off if I'm being nosy. I thought I read that you were doing Clomid - that makes more eggs drop, right? So - do you do that and then they harvest eggs to implant a few days later?
ketchupqueen - Yuck. All you guys just get me so excited for what's comin' up... ; )
imogen - I'm going to have to go, too. The ones I'm wearing now aren't going to cut it for much longer at all... I'm probably going to be in the same boat as you - I'm a D or DD to start. Greeeeeat... ; )
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Went to the doctor today and -- surprise! -- we did an ultrasound. I wasn't actually expecting another one but they just wanted to make sure everything was still on track, head down, placenta behaving, etc. All looked good!
I hope my contractions don't do a repeat of last time. Starting at around 36 weeks, I was having regular contractions every 10 minutes or so. I guess it could be worse if I had to endure a constant contractions!
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Wow, cmc, that means I've overtaken you! (Due 23/11, 8 weeks this Sunday.)
We could have our babies on the same day. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Just so all y'all know, my induction is scheduled for the 24th. Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Since it's not me that is pregnant, I can say this- wow, kq, it doesn't seem that long ago that you first announced you were pregnant. Good luck.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'M NOT READY!!! Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Sure ya are... ; ) You're like a pro at this or something... ; )
Good birthday, too. My best buddy from college will turn 30 tomorrow...
I'll be thinking of you and your family all day (admittedly not consecutively all day... ; ) ) tomorrow.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm ready to HAVE the baby.
I am not ready to bring her HOME.
My place is still a mess.
KPC is going to be doing a loooot of cleaning Fri.
Thankfully, he has until the 6th to be home with us and help get things in shape (thank you Paid Family Leave!)
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I have been nesting all winter, so I could technically go into labor today, and the only things I'd have to worry about would be getting the baby's carseat into the car and packing my hospital bag.
Too bad I have five more weeks until my due date. How is it possible it's still that long?!
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Our house is on the market, so it's as clean as it's ever been since we moved in. So technically we could bring a baby home any time. Except that that would make it very hard to keep the house in condition to show to prospective buyers. It's hard enough with a toddler -- toddler and new baby? Forget it.
Ten more weeks. Please, please, please let it be sold by then.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Good luck KQ - Have fun!
Brinestone, wanna come nest at my place? It could really use some organisation... I'm sure the round trip to Australia would make 5 weeks fly by.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Ok, a friend (who is very much not me) had an ER trip on April 6th and they said, oh, it looks like you are just barely pregnant based on blood tests. The results were about as low as detectable. So yesterday she had an ultrasound and they couldn't see an eggsac (though they also didn't see anything in the tubes). I wasn't sure what to tell her. I thought it was potentially early enough that it wasn't detectable. Her next appt isn't until next week, so I am not sure what to do to help her not stress.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
HCG is detectable in the blood as early as 7-8 days after ovulation; the egg sac (IIRC) often cannot be seen on an ultrasound until ~5 weeks post-period (so as much as two weeks after HCG levels are detectable). A low-resolution ultrasound machine would probably add a week or two, as would an unlucky or unskilled technician.
Did they measure her HCG levels again? What did her doctor say?
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
The dr did more blood workup but won't have the results until Monday (or won't tell her the results). He said they would talk then when more is apparent.
edit to add- looking online, some people mention that tilted uteruses can be more difficult to do ultrasounds on. That might matter.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Timing on results almost certainly depends on the lab (and transport time and related delays), rather than the doctor.
I can understand the doctor not wanting to say anything definite when it's both so early and the results are not in. Hey, it's not so long ago that women couldn't be sure they were pregnant for 2-3 months! Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
My mom says she liked it better that way- none of the early agonizing.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I dunno, it was quite a shock to find out I was pregnant with Bridget (when I was almost 3 months along...) I think I like knowing better... But then, there were other circumstances in play, too.
And my bag is just about packed... And my mom's getting ready to come over... We're going to put Bridget down and then she's coming and then we're going to have Emma sleep in our bed with Jeff while my mom sleeps and I stay up and probably watch tv so we leave on time. 'Cause I doubt I would sleep anyway...
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Oooh, KQ, I'm so excited for you!!! ((KQ))
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Good luck. Have fun.
(Retroactively, since by the time you read this Maggie will already be here.)
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
((kq)) I'll be thinking about you today!!! I hope things go well!
Yay Maggie!! Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
So, is little Maggie here yet?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I'm assuming that's what Boon's so gleeful about.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
It was, and is. Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Random 'i feel dumb moment'...
Kyle's a big cooker... well, griller/bbq artist is a better description. Anyway - we're doing a cook-off (and by we i mean i go and pretty much stand there while he and his brother rock out and give me little things to do so i feel useful ; ) ) this weekend. It starts tonight, so I had to get the car packed up and all that stuff and I'm heading out in a few to pick him up from work and head down to SC to get this thang started...
Anyway - I was carrying one of the coolers out to the car and suddenly one of my neighbors starts yelling at me. She comes to the driveway ranting about 'what do you think you're doing missy, put that down right now!'. I'm all - 'what are you TALKING about, Roxanne?'. Then she tells me I'm not supposed to be lifting things.
Apparently - I am dense. I had no idea. How stupid am I? Is this something that everyone knows or... ?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
It depends how heavy it is, but even more on how you lift things. That said, some people go a bit overboard.
Link Another Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
You can ask your doctor what they recommend for you.
For work I would routinely lift 50 lbs (that was how much my equipment weighed). My doctor said that since I was used to lifting it (meaning I knew how to lift correctly) I could keep doing it as long as I could still do so without difficulty. By the time I was about 7 months pregnant, my belly got in the way enough that I could no longer lift it to put it in my trunk (but I could take it out just fine), so I'd have someone else do it for me.
And yes, every time someone would freak out about me lifting things, I'd tell them that my doctor told me it was fine for me to do.
Edit: make "your doctor" gender neutral
[ April 25, 2008, 06:10 PM: Message edited by: ludosti ]
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by ludosti: You can ask your doctor what he recommends for you.
Always an excellent idea.
Plus, it allows you to use that excellent line. Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
Today is 37 weeks -- full term -- baby can come anytime now.
Unfortunately, I don't think the baby agrees. We had a little chat today as I set the co-sleeper bassinet up next to the bed. I explained that it would be very comfy and warm and close to mommy and that she'd love it there. She just rolled and kicked.
I'm starting to have very mild but fairly regular contractions just like I did with my son. They lasted about 3 weeks with him. At least that puts us on track to be on time. Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I am also having fairly frequent contractions, and I'm almost certain the baby has dropped. Of course, all that means is that I'll probably have a baby sometime in the next month.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oooooh, more babiness!
As for lifting, I was told no more than 30-35 lbs. with my first; my doctor said if I was used to lifting more the recommendation would be different, but it also depended on how awkward the item was to carry and how I carried it. And when I had spotting he bumped it down to no more than 15 lbs., even after my bedrest was done.
My husband took that very seriously, and was known to snatch 50 lb. bags of dog food away from one of the vets he worked with (who was pregnant at the time-- 2 or 3 months behind me) even though she was used to carrying them, and tell her to go sit down and rest.
She didn't seem to mind. She would go sit down and put her feet up and let him carry the dog food!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay for more new babies sometime in the next month!! I hope all your preparations are going smoothly and that you'll both be as comfortable as possible ( ) until they arrive!!
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
My heavy lifting at work is awkward heavy lifting. I have to put a centrifuge rotor into the centrifuge. I don't think it is possible to do it withot using back actually because you have to position it properly. So, I am not sure what the thing actually weighed, but it got really hard to do and awkward very quickly. When I came back to work after having the baby, the first time I lifted it, I was like, wow, this is what I was struggling with- it's not bad at all.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
My biggest problem right now is that I just can't concentrate. It started last week. I am SOOO close to having my second novel finished. If I could just sit and really work on it for 2 hours a day I could probably be done in the 3 weeks I have left but my brain is not cooperating. All I can think about is baby stuff. And cleaning the house. But mostly baby stuff.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Had the latest monthly appointment last Thursday - got to hear the heartbeat which was pretty cool. Last time he just showed it to me on the ultrasound... Everything's 'normal'. I also asked him about lifting things (among a few other questions) and he told me to stop reading What to Expect When You're Expecting... ; ) I've actually been reading a book called Your Pregnancy Week-by-Week more (which he said was a great book) but I laughed when he said it...
Tomorrow we're going to a different place to get do the neuchal (sp?) fold testing. It just seemed like a good idea, since they can screen for so many things without just going in there first... I think it'll be cool to see another ultrasound a little further along...
Also found out my uncle (who's actually just two years older than me - he's the youngest on my mom's side, where she's the oldest) is pregnant with twins. Well - not HIM exactly... ; ) They're due the same time as me, but will probably go early. It'll be really neat to have them all so close in age... ; )
Thanks to everyone for all the lifting links - and I'm thinking of all you who are going to be adding to your fam SOON! : )
Posted by Valentine014 (Member # 5981) on :
quote: Had the latest monthly appointment last Thursday - got to hear the heartbeat which was pretty cool. Last time he just showed it to me on the ultrasound... Everything's 'normal'. I also asked him about lifting things (among a few other questions) and he told me to stop reading What to Expect When You're Expecting...
Sounds very similar to what Rosemary's doctor said to her in Rosemary's Baby when she started asking too many questions. Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Oh greeeeeeeat... ; )
Funny side-note - I've got a cousin who was born on a Friday the 13th... His Mom's name, you ask? Rosemary. ; )
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I had an u/s today because I'm measuring small. I expected to measure small. I did throughout my first pregnancy and my son came out smaller than average (25th percentile) but healthy.
The u/s didn't find any specific problem, but it did raise a red flag. This baby is measuring not just small, but truly small for gestational age, defined as under the 10th percentile.
She needed some encouragement to move, which kind of had me worried. She's been slowing down, possibly due to regular end of pregnancy things. I had some chocolate and then I had a non-stress test and the baby seems to be doing fine.
But the doctor came in afterward and asked if I wanted to induce this weekend. He said she was probably fine, but that they did get worried when babies were quite so small. He mentioned an increase risk of stillbirth. If I want to wait, he'll support the decision, but I'll need to come in twice a week from now on for a non stress test.
So I scheduled the induction for Saturday but asked if I could sleep on it and change my mind in the morning. They said sure.
If I don't induce Saturday, I can't induce for 2 weeks because there are just too many inductions scheduled already.
At this point, I think I'm leaning towards going ahead with it but I feel uneasy. I had really wanted to go to a natural start of childbirth this time around and part of me feels like a failure. In my heart I wanted an excuse to have the baby come early as I'm so eager to hold her in my arms but if she's not ready yet...
I think I need to sleep on it, but if anyone has an opinion, I'd love to hear it! Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
((Christine))
I just looked at the dates...you're at 39 weeks, right? Or close to it?
If I were in your shoes, I would go ahead with the induction. That's my personality, though...I worry. I am also an interventionist. For myself, I don't think I'd schedule an induction for my convenience, but I would have no qualms about scheduling it for the benefit of the baby. Also, I would trust my doctor not to recommend interventions that he didn't think were important for my health or that of the baby. (For example, my doctor offered me the choice of induction but recommended a C-section because they were having a hard time controlling my BP and I was not dilated or effaced at all. I went for the C-section with no hesitation but with some regrets.)
How will you feel if you cancel the induction tomorrow? Relieved? Or worried?
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
((Christine)) I hope you're able to be happy and at ease with whatever decision you make!
I can understand feeling like a failure - I know I did when I needed a c-section, but my induction didn't bother me at all (I wanted her here so badly and was so sick of being pregnant). If I were in your situation, I'd go with the induction without a second thought, because I would worry way too much otherwise. I think Liz really hit it - would you feel relieved or worried if you canceled it?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I hate inductions, but if I had to do it over with my first, I'd do the induction again. She was also small, and had a "prematurely aging placenta," as well as my fluid being low.
If the doctor thinks an induction is a good idea for the baby's sake, I would take the advice. You are paying for it. Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I do trust this doctor's advice. He has not, to date, been remotely alarmist or interventionist. I don't think he offered the choice idly.
If I canceled I think I would spend the rest of the pregnancy poking my belly to get the baby to move just to make sure she was still okay.
So...looks like I'll be induced on Saturday. (And yes, that's 39 weeks...or 1 day shy at any rate.)
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Good luck! Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
That's how far I was when I was induced with Maggie, further than I was with Bridey. And those inductions both went beautifully. So I'll hope for the same for you. Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
While agreeing with everyone else to weigh how you feel about it, consider your doctor's advice, etc., I did want to say that I don't think:
quote:Originally posted by Christine: If I don't induce Saturday, I can't induce for 2 weeks because there are just too many inductions scheduled already.
is really a problem. If you decide to wait and go in for the non-stress tests and they find that the baby is in any trouble at all they are not going to make you wait 2 weeks.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
dkw -- you make a good point. I mean, if I skipped it and the nonstress test on Monday showed a problem is it c-section or nothing? That can't be right. I honestly don't know how it works, though. I mean, they won't schedule any inductions in those 2 weeks but they have a bed for me if I go into labor on my own so they obviously have so many inductions they'll take that is less than the # of beds. I'm just not sure how many or what criterion they use. It sounded like first come first serve, which puts someone like me -- wanting to go on my own but inducing due to a medical recommendation -- at a disadvantage.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I think they would bump people getting elective inductions (that actually happened to me - I was considered an elective induction and was bumped - but only about 4 hours). But yes, depending on what kind of "problems" are detected, they may go straight for a c-section.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
^ | What she said. At this point yours is still technically elective, since you're scheduling it a few days ahead. If later there was a medical reason to get that baby out now they would bump someone else and fit you in. Unless whatever the reason was required a c-section. You could talk to your doctor, though, and ask what his/her concerns are if the baby stays in longer and whether they would require a section if the concerns worsened.
Or just go ahead, since you're at 39 weeks anyway. Um . . . you are sure about the dates, right? It's not possible that the baby's measuring small because it's really only 36 weeks or something like that?
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
quote: if I skipped it and the nonstress test on Monday showed a problem is it c-section or nothing?
Boy, I doubt that! As others have said, I'm sure an elective induction would be bumped for a necessary induction. But ask your doctor--is it possible that if the NST showed a problem, that an induction wouldn't be possible simply because they might need to get the baby out sooner rather than wait through labor?
And again, ((Christine)). I'm sorry you even have to make this decision.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
One other thing to consider, though, is that they often "run the clock" faster on a medically necessary induction than an elective. Meaning, with an elective induction you usually have 24 hours from the time water breaks before they start pushing c-section. With a medically necessary, they're much more likely to say, "You're not progressing, and we're worried about the baby, and want to section now" before that.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
dkw -- Good question! But I am extremely positive about the due date this time around. I not only have an early u/s, but I was taking basal body temp readings and the two dates are just a day apart. (Technically by ovulation date, I'm one day less advanced.) With my son, I had no such confidence and might have wondered about the due date being wrong as a reason that the baby was small...I know that comes up a lot especially when they go with LMP dates. If I were going by my LMP, I'd be 40 weeks this weekend but luckily my doctor never even tried to use LMP to determine due date. There's no way in the world I'm 36 weeks or anything. That would have required a psychic pregnancy test, actually.
I love basal body temperature. It really makes me feel like I understand what's going on with my body.
KCQ -- that's good to know about elective vs emergency inductions. I'm definitely hoping to avoid c-section. I think tomorrow's induction will work out, though.
Thanks for the support, everyone! I'll give you the vital stats in a few days.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Good luck with everything!
(While I am not jealous of your situation and worries, I am a bit jealous that you'll be seeing your baby so soon. Two more weeks to my due date, and I'm getting sick of being pregnant.)
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Good Luck Christine.
I had my u/s last Monday (only one baby - yay! DD 22/11/08) and went to the birth centre to meet my mid wife on Friday. Very happy. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
(((((Brinestone)))))
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Good luck today Christine!
((Brinestone))Maybe your baby will decide to come a little early!
Yay for one baby imogen!!
Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
I don't know you very well but I did want to wish you luck. I understand the fears about induction. I was really scared when I had to be induced with my baby in April. I was induced for the opposite reason. I was 41 weeks and my Dr. was getting concerned that she was getting too big and not showing signs of getting ready to come on her own. In the end, I was really happy with the induction and would do it over again the same way. I did find that the pitocin made my contractions quite painful but nothing that the epidural didn't fix. And of course holding the your baby for the first time will make anything better Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
imogen, I'm so happy for you! I can't believe I haven't said it before. Things are crazy here.
We're also hoping for just 1 baby, who will make his debut on 2-3-09.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Is that an announcement??? Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
You have all my good wishes, Mrs M. Posted by Derrell (Member # 6062) on :
Congratulations ,Mrs. M. Best wishes for a happy, healthy baby. Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I've asked my sister to be present at the birth, if possible. She's almost done with her nursing degree, her philosophy on birth is similar to mine, she knows me well, and she also knows the medical community well. I figured she'd be a great advocate for me if necessary on things like which position to push in and how to get through without an epidural. The problem is, she's in a class right now that has two "internship" portions: one for five days in rural Utah and one for a week in Washington, D.C. She gets back from the second one tonight, which means she can theoretically make the birth no matter when it happens.
Okay, baby. Now we're not waiting on anything. Any time now. Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Any day now! How exciting, Brinestone!
Congrats, Mrs. M! Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Good luck, Brinestone!
Thanks, y'all. I'm pretty scared. I went to my OB today. No UTI, my cervix is closed, and no bleeding. I got Rhogam (I had a little spotting last week) and I'm doing another round of antibiotics for the GBS colony. I'm also on progesterone until week 13. We'll know on Thursday how my level compare to today's and we can see if this is a normal pregnancy or not. We'll also have a clearer picture of how many are in there, though we won't know for sure until my first ultrasound, which will be in about 3 weeks.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I really hope things continue well, Mrs M.
On another note, I do still follow your blog and Aerin is just getting more ridiculously adorable as she grows up. I am sure she will make a great big sister. Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Good luck Mrs. M.
We're trying to decide if it makes sense for me to go to a work conference next week. On one hand I'm the chairperson of a board that has a million+ budget that will be voted on at this conference and I should be there to defend it. And I'm supposed to give an award and introduce a representative from another state.
On the other hand I will be 37 weeks pregnant by the end of the conference, John was born at 38 weeks exactly, and it's a three hour drive from here with a 2 hour stretch between major cities along the route.
Decisions, decisions . . .
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Um... I'd send a delegate.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(Though, if you went into labor and were panting through contractions in between defending your budget, it might be a really good way to get it through... )
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I kinda have this fantasy of going to the microphone and requesting to be excused from the rest of the session (it's mandatory attendance) because I'm in labor. If it weren't so far to get home I'd totally hope that happened.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
I always had that fantasy, except I would go into labor and force my husband to quit playing real-time strategy games with Finns.
I DID go into labor in a college class once.
It was a human biology class, and we were in a lab, studying the human reproductive system and watching a video of a woman giving birth. The baby in the movie came out, and *pop* went my water.
I should have gotten extra credit in that class...
DKW, how fast are your labors? If you usually progress really slowly...I would be tempted to do it, too...heh heh heh
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
This is only my second pregnancy, but labor with John was 32 hours. The first 26 at home, so if this one goes the same way it would be fine.
But I keep hearing that second labors tend to be faster.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
If it were me, I wouldn't go, and then I'd kick myself when I didn't go into labor. So my advice is to do what I wouldn't do.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Congratulations, Mrs. M!!!!!! I am, by the way, still praying for your cervix.
dkw: hard decision. I'm definitely the stay-at-home-and-then-kick-self type, much like Brinestone.
So which would be worse: to miss the conference for "no" reason, or to deliver at a strange hospital possibly without Bob (I don't know if he'll be at the conference)?
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
My contribution to this thread is my discovery yesterday that "doula" comes from the words for "slave" in ancient Greek.
Use that information appropriately.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
dkw - how fast was your mother's 2nd labor? I don't know how my first labor compared to my mother's, but I know her 2nd and my 2nd were both very fast (mine was less than 3 hours). I don't know if that is just coincidence or if there is anything hereditary about that.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Hmm. I don't know.
The conference starts Thursday, and we're seeing the doctor on Wednesday afternoon. At this point I'm thinking that if I'm dialating at all I probably won't go. (And then won't go into labor for another 3 weeks. But if I do go I would go into labor that weekend, so I'll be kicking myself either way.)
I shared this elsewhere, but you all might get a kick out of it . . . one of John's favorite books right now is Baby on the Way. Last night he gave me his version of how this all works -- "Baby inside Mommy tummy. Squeeze and squeeze and squeeze and squeeze . . . baby outside!" Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
dkw, if only it were that easy! I, as usual, have no useful advice on whether to go or not. I can't leave Richmond until the baby is born.
I forgot how much I stink at being pregnant. I have just enough nausea for it to be annoying and I get dizzy if I stand up too quickly. I didn't have that with Aerin, so I'm theoretically happy about it. The reality is crummy. I also have OHSS again, so I have a lot of bloating and pain. I am also exhausted and fall asleep right after I put Aerin to bed.
The good news is that I'm past when I lost Baby C and my levels are doubling normally.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yay! I'm glad you're doing well and sorry you're feeling crummy.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Mrs. M- that's great. I hope it continues working out! Sorry, you are miserable, though as my dr said whenever I complained- you're pregnant, that's just the way it is. Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay Mrs M! I'm glad things are going well so far!! I'm so sorry about the nausea and dizziness - I know how awful that is. I hope things will get better (or at least not worse)! Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
quote:Originally posted by Mama Squirrel: dkw - how fast was your mother's 2nd labor? I don't know how my first labor compared to my mother's, but I know her 2nd and my 2nd were both very fast (mine was less than 3 hours). I don't know if that is just coincidence or if there is anything hereditary about that.
I would agree with this. My first one was faster than most people's first; but my second one was the "ripping off the clothes before the baby pops out" fast! They were undressing me on the elevator because they were sure I wasn't going to make it up to the delivery room.
(and my mom said it was pretty much that way when she had me, as well -- I was her second)
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
I was a bad girl today. I wanted to wait longer, but today is my first day home alone since the baby was born and I was taking a good look at myself in the mirror and feeling quite insecure about my post partum body. So, I got out the scale.
I only lost 13 lbs. That leaves me with almost 30 lbs to get to my pre-pregnancy weight and another 10 I'd just like to lose but maybe shouldn't think too much about right now.
The thought of waiting another 4 weeks to even get started dieting is driving me nuts. Or maybe I was already nuts. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Hey, the day I came home I was only 8 lbs below my day-I-delivered weight. And I had a 7 1/2 lb. baby. So I had GAINED weight.
13 lbs. is a great start, and I know that that next few weeks is always a big time for weight loss for me. After that it slows down, but wait a few more and see what happens.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I came home from the hospital weighing exactly what I did before I got pregnant. And after a year of breastfeeding, at my 1 year postpartum checkup I had not lost another ounce.
This pregnancy I've only gained 10 lbs (as of two weeks ago, anyway), so hopefully I can come through with a net loss. And maybe tandem nursing will give me a little extra loss as well.
---
I consulted with Mom on the 2nd labor question -- She had a 9 hour labor with me and 7-8 hours with ElJay. But she was induced with a previous pregnancy when the baby died in utero at 6 months, so technically I might count as the second delivery. And the first took much longer, but that was because it was a pre-term induction. So who knows?
36 weeks today, doctor visit tomorrow.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
I've given birth 6 times now.
I hate being overweight and diet and work out as soon as I can. However, it doesn't make a difference, except in making me dry up.
So, with my most recent baby (Moose), I waited until he was 3 months old and started working out 6/week and doing Atkins.
After 3 months of sweating, I got on a scale at a doctor's office and...I had GAINED 10 pounds.
*grrrrrrrr*
Also, my milk had started to dry up.
I weaned Moose a few months ago and now it's coming off.
But it takes a whole year for me to even start getting my body back--and since my kids are usually 18 months to 2 1/2 years apart, I have my body "back" for about 3 weeks before I get pregnant again. *eyeroll*
My husband Dragoon says that I lose weight and get cuter until I reach Critical Cuteness, which is when my chances of getting pregnant again begin to rise.
So....it could be worse. You could have not lost any weight at ALL. Or be gaining it.
All the same...I know how crazy-making it can be. I would love to know what it's like to mother a newborn while getting to fit into my jeans.
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
James is four months old, and I still can't fit any of my pre-pregnancy pants. I plateaued at 15 pounds heavier than when I got pregnant. I'm really going to have to work hard to lose the last 15 pounds.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
As I've read in several places -- it took you nine months to gain it, you should think along those lines for losing it.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I couldn't diet while nursing. I got grumpy and mean and super emotional. So, I ate and mantained the weight I was until I stopped nursing. Then I came up with other excuses for 3 months and now I am dieting again. After the baby was born, I lost like 20 pounds and since I started dieting, I lost another 10. One of my requirements before I have another baby is I lose the weight from this one. Kinda depressing that my baby is 17 months and I still have another 15 pounds to go (I gained more then I should have).
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I wouldn't even try to diet while nursing. Try to eat healthier, yes, but not an intentional reducing diet. It's way more important to me that my kids are able to nurse for the first few years than that I lose weight faster.
I didn't intentionally "diet" during this pregnancy either -- but cutting out caffineated soda and coming home for lunch rather than eating out (plus nursing a toddler while pregnant) has kept my weight gain at the lower amount reccomended for women who start pregnancy 40 lbs or more overweight. Which I'm happy about. Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
I lost about 30 lbs. almost immediately--within the first 3 weeks ppstpartum. Apparently I was pretty swollen. I've since put about 5 lbs back on (I was So. Hungry. All the time!), which puts me at 15 lbs above my pre-pregnancy weight. (It would only be 5 but I lost 10 lbs right before getting pregnant.) I can wear the clothes I was wearing last summer when I was a little bit pregnant, and can almost but not quite get into the jeans I was wearing before I lost the weight before I got pregnant.
I've just started working out again, which should help my clothes start to fit better. As for food...well, the other day I ate a very healthy lunch of a BIG salad with leftover lean steak, some raw baby turnips, and lots of water. And I was so hungry by 3:30 I needed to eat lunch again--this time turkey potpie.
So I think I'll be concentrating my efforts on exercise for now. I'd like to be able to get into some of my work clothes again by August.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Liz B: (I was So. Hungry. All the time!)
That's what nursing was like for me too. I had a net weight loss with each of my pregnancies (losing weight for the first 15-20 weeks will do that) -- comparing before-pregnant weight to day-after-delivery weight -- and then gained it all back (plus some) while nursing.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Yeah, that's why I'm concentrating on exercise for now. Being hungry makes me much grumpier than not being able to wear my old clothes. A few years ago I lost a lot of weight very sensibly, so I know what dieting hunger should feel like and how to make it go away without sabotaging myself. The nursing hunger is entirely different. I also obviously don't want to compromise my supply, and I figure listening to my body's signals is a good way to make sure I don't. (I think Nathaniel is in a growth spurt right now because he's waking up again at night...but also because of how THIRSTY I am.)
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Liz B: The nursing hunger is entirely different.
Totally. The only time I ever asked someone at a wedding if they were going to finish their meal was when I was nursing. Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
quote:Originally posted by rivka:
quote:Originally posted by Liz B: The nursing hunger is entirely different.
Totally. The only time I ever asked someone at a wedding if they were going to finish their meal was when I was nursing.
That's awesome.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I'm so glad to hear that there's such a thing as nursing hunger. I'm always *starving* in the afternoon and had thought something was wrong with me.
I lost my pregnancy weight very quickly (because of all the nausea/vomiting I had, I ended my pregnancy the same weight as I started it, so I wasn't sure how things would work out). At one week post-partum, I'd lost 15 lbs and by 6 weeks post-partum I'd lost a total of 30 lbs. I seem to have stayed that same weight (which is fine with me), but I do hope to lose a little more next year after Beanie is weaned (and get closer to my ideal weight).
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Ooooh, yeah. 'Cept I'm hungriest at night. Possibly 'cause that's when mine tends to cluster nurse right now.
Posted by scholar (Member # 9232) on :
When I was packing on the food while nursing, whenever anyone looked at me funny, I'd say, hey, I'm still eating for two- and she is a whole lot bigger now then when she was in my tummy.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
So very true!!
I'd never made the connection between cluster nursing and my afternoon hunger, but that makes perfect sense!
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
So, the doctor thinks it would be fine to go. But the more I think about it the more I don't really want to go. I've already lined up people to take my official responsibilites and it really is a gruelling weekend, and even the thought of it is making me tired. I'm supposed to get up and move around every hour, so sitting in a crappy folding chair for 4 days straight is not particularly appealing. Actually, I'm really not sure my hips and back could stand it.
I think I've talked myself out of going.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I think that's probably a good thing.
Though you'll probably always fantasize about "What if I had gone and gone into labor."
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
It sounds like going would be a major ordeal. I'm glad you were able to talk yourself out of it and I hope you'll be happy with your decision. Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
quote: The only time I ever asked someone at a wedding if they were going to finish their meal was when I was nursing.
I'm always eyeing my husband's meals. Not asking. Just--looking.
quote:sitting in a crappy folding chair for 4 days straight is not particularly appealing
Yikes! That's enough reason not to go right there, even if it were being held in your house.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by hansenj:
quote:Originally posted by rivka:
quote:Originally posted by Liz B: The nursing hunger is entirely different.
Totally. The only time I ever asked someone at a wedding if they were going to finish their meal was when I was nursing.
That's awesome.
I should point out that she had already set her plate aside (IOW, I was pretty sure the answer was "no") and she's someone I know fairly well.
. . . and after I finished the second half of her prime rib (in addition to my chicken), I was full.
quote:Originally posted by scholar: When I was packing on the food while nursing, whenever anyone looked at me funny, I'd say, hey, I'm still eating for two- and she is a whole lot bigger now then when she was in my tummy.
The estimate is that you need an extra 300 calories per day when pregnant -- and 500 extra when nursing.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
This is my most nauseous day so far. The baby doesn't even know how to tell time - I woke up last night at 2 AM and just felt wretched. I'm at the point where the thought of food makes me feel sick. I'm forcing myself to eat. The baby is apparently a health nut, because all I can tolerate is green vegetables and fruit. I also have a craving for eggplant.
Also, the baby really hates Chinese food. So much so that I don't know if I'll be able to eat it even after he's born. What kind of Jewish baby doesn't like Chinese food?
My first ultrasound is this Friday. I really hope it's just one baby.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Good luck!
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Good luck Mrs. M.
I couldn't handle Chinese food this time either. And with both pregnancies I craved insane amounts of fruit in the last month or so. But that might have been because it was summer and so ridiculously hot. Also because I have a hard time drinking as much water as I'm supposed to, so fruit helps with the hydration.
I actually ate a half a watermelon a day for a couple weeks last pregnancy. I think I could do that this time too, but I've been getting more variety instead -- peaches, plums, cherries, apricots, grapes, other melon. And watermelon too, of course.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I craved fruit all the time while pregnant. Now that monster is out and eating, she LOVES fruit. Her third word (after uhoh! and doggy) was strawberry. She sits by the refrigerator shouting it until we open and then she'll grab whatever fruit we have and run.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I looooove fruit while pregnant. Veggies too-- lots of salads-- but especially fruit.
I had a thing for olives this last time, I don't usually like olives much but I loved olive oil on anything, on bread or I would stick my finger in a bowl of leftover and lick it! I also ate black olives and canned peaches-- together. Mmmmm.
I don't give strawberries to my kids until they're one, of course, but the two that are old enough do adore them. And my first sentence was "Mas fwesa pweese" (I spoke English and Spanish at the same time and would use whatever word was easiest for me to say.) We are definitely strawberry lovers in this family.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Asian stuff is exactly what I crave when I've got MS.
Hot sour soup is tops. I also need a lot of green tea with fresh ginger. And it must be super hot, or super cold.
Though I craved chocolate with Cherry Blossom...she's the chocoholic.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I wanted tea this last pregnancy, but I gave it up when I converted. So I ameliorated the craving with Mandarin Orange Spice herbal tea. That was all I could drink for about 2 months. (And boy was I mad when my cat knocked it in the sink and my daughter ran water on it... I sent my husband to three stores until he found another box.)
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
I have been getting the back-and-forth on the green tea thing.
On the one hand, it is a Hot Drink. (though I prefer it iced)
OTOH, it has only a third the caffiene of cola drinks, and I use it medicinally.
And, of course, the everyone-else-is-doing-it argument: My obachan, who's been a temple worker for years upon years, introduced me to it when I had morning sickness at her house.
I've asked bishops; nobody's given me a clear Yes or No. They were okay on the medicinal use.
But I still worry, so I try to drink CS's Peach Apricot Honeybush tea. I LOVE that stuff. And, of course, I can't find it for love or money anymore. Whereas green tea has now become ubiquitous.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
*shrug* When I was a missionary (almost 10 years ago - yikes!) we taught that "tea" refers to both black and green teas (they're made from the same plant). I would imagine that the issue would be a big one in Japan. Green tea is ubiquitous and has shown some interesting health benefits, so I've been interested in the medicinal ramifications of it. Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
When I got my wisdom teeth out, my (LDS) dentist/endodontist/torturer told me to pack the sockets with Lipton tea bags.
Which helped a LOT with the healing, and also meant for a week I was a black tea percolator, with a continous dribble of the stuff in my mouth.
I've used tea bags for breastfeeding issues, too.
So I figured green tea falls into the "medicinal" category. If black tea can be used to heal, then why not green? It being the same plant and all.
Here's a question: if it is bad to drink green tea for morning sickness, is it bad to take green tea capsules?
Or is it that we are not to ingest tea plants at all, no matter how they are processed or whatever?
Was it wrong for me to use tea bags when I had my wisdom teeth out?
ETA: Not trying to troll.Really asking here.
I know that some parts of the Word of Wisdom are pretty set-in-stone, and some are left more to personal interpretation; I am interested what people think is left to personal revelation, and what isn't.
For instance, my green tea use shocks my LDS mother, who objects to it, once as she was pouring herself her fifth Diet Coke that day.
[ June 12, 2008, 06:57 PM: Message edited by: Sachiko ]
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I tend to interpret rules much more loosely then others, but I think that is fine. Of course, the once a year I am with my in laws, my husband and I drink tea with them. We figure it is infrequent use, not an addiction and any negative health benefits are more then made up for by not dealing with the stress of refusing and the family trauma that is sure to follow.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I think when talking about the Word of Wisdom, it's important that the focus be on respecting and caring for our bodies (the things that we eat/drink are certainly a part of that). I, personally, would treat black/green teas like I would other medications.
I certainly did not mean to come across as judgmental about the green tea issue. I guess I was just surprised that there was ambiguity about it. I'm a big fan of personal interpretation and in my opinion you've not done anything wrong (though I also think that what I think shouldn't matter).
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
I also think that what others think shouldn't matter, but I think I only think I think that, when REALLY I think that I do care what others think.
And, since I post here, I also care about what others think about what I think.
("I like less than half of you less than half as well as you deserve" etc. )
I agree about the focus of the W of W.
I haven't been a missionary, though I have spent some years abroad as a Jack Mormon.
I don't think you're judgemental. Not that I think you care about what I think about what you think.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I would put the tea bags on the sockets if I had to (and will-- got 2 pulled today!) That's medicinal use.
But to me, green tea is from the tea plant. Therefore I do not drink it. I believe the majority consensus I have come across is that green tea is not to be drunk unless it is medicinal and prescribed by a reputable medical-type person. That is certainly what is taught in Japan (per several friends who served missions there.) But I concede that the minority on this issue is rather large. So I just don't get into it. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, and I do drink caffienated soda, though most definitely in moderation-- never more than 2 a day and usually that would be refills of a fountain drink, and I think even when I'm not nursing a baby it's less than twice a month on average.
I limit it for two reasons-- one is to not become caffeine-dependent, and the other is to maintain its medicinal effect on me (I have low blood pressure episodes, especially when pregnant, and get migraines.)
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Twins. Freaking out.
They are each measuring about the same - B is .1 of a centimeter bigger than A. Their heartrates are 128 bpm. Everything looks good so far, but I'm terrified.
Posted by Valentine014 (Member # 5981) on :
Oh my gosh!! How exciting!
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Twins! I know you were hoping for only one, but I'm very excited for you. I'm glad they both look like they're doing well!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Twins!! I can certainly imagine how freaked out you would be by the prospect of twins, but it's so great that they're looking good! Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
((Mrs.M))
I am glad everything looks good.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
((Mrs M))
It seems horrible to say I'm sorry, but having had a similar situation (and knowing you were hoping for one) I can completely understand the freaking out.
You have my best wishes - I'm sending strong, healthy twin vibes your way.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(((hug))) for Mrs.M! We'll keep you and the babies in our prayers for sure!
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Yay! Twins!!!!
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
At least you're not having sextuplets like that couple in that show on TLC. (Joe and Kate Plus Eight?)
[/insensitive comment]
I'd totally be freaking out too, especially in your situation.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Jon and Kate, Brinestone. And kudos to them for wanting to keep all the babies when they were told they really ought to reduce.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
(((Mrs. M)))
Praying for you and your babies.
Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
(((Mrs. M))) I hadn't known you were pregnant. That's what I get for sulking in the "not pregnant, wish I were, I just turned 38, and no I don't want to talk about it" thread that exists only in my head. 2 is less than 3. Just remember that.
In summary, I'm not pregnant because I get really bad hormonal depressions, and my husband worries a lot about me. So I just try and be grateful for the three little beauties I have.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Thanks for the prayers and good wishes, y'all. I'm starting to adjust to the idea. I'll feel better when I talk to my OB. She wasn't in on Friday and, boy, does she have a surprise waiting for her. I think she's going to want to do my cerclage in the next couple of weeks.
The ultrasound was very different than the ones when I was pregnant with Aerin. For one, Aerin was there and she was acting like a little pill b/c she missed her nap. And this time we were hoping for just 1 baby, whereas last time we thought multiples would be neat. The ultrasound tech was so nice. She told us that she was going to visualize and record before she explained what we were looking at. There was about 5-10 minutes of silence while we all looked at the screens. Now, I've had literally dozens of ultrasounds - I know how to read one by now. I saw both sacs immediately. Andrew says that he didn't know b/c he wasn't sure what he was looking at. This was the extent of my thoughts, "Oh no, oh no, oh no, oh no..."
We also only have 1 name picked out for girls, which is bothering me because I'm compulsive like that.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I have been a lot happier since we found one boy's name we can both agree on - not that it will necessarily be the one, but before we picked it, we couldn't agree at all.
I was having visions of "Baby Boy E__" for months.
(Not that we know it's a boy - but I figured, as long as we didn't have any name we could agree on, it would be, just to make things difficult.)
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
We still don't have a boy's name, and we're pretty sure we're having a boy. Pretty soon.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I vote for Earl. Or Erwin.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
quote:Originally posted by dkw: We still don't have a boy's name, and we're pretty sure we're having a boy. Pretty soon.
At least you've been through the process once, so you know you theoretically can agree on a name.
I was despairing that I would ever find a name that I liked and Tony could stand. He didn't like my more... adventurous choices (I still think Thaddeus is a great name) and 6 years of teaching at a boy's high school means he has a lot of vetoes based on past association.
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Thaddeus is a great name. But I went on a date with a Thaddeus in May, so I don't get a vote.
What are your (any you in this thread) name choices you do like? I adore names.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
First time through was easy -- we decided right away that a boy would be first name after Bob's father and middle name after my father. A girl would be firstname after my maternal grandmother, middle name after his maternal grandmother (since both our mothers are still alive and we don't want to use a first name that's still in circulation in the immediate family).
Unfortunately, if we push back another generation for boy's names we start running into names like Vernon and Emil, which neither of us care for, or Theodore, which I don't mind but Bob vetoed. We have no further male family names that we both like that aren't already in use by siblings or sibling's kids.
We have had some conversations about how we could "reverse theme" John's name based on what we name a second boy. We could go with "George Ringo," "Luke Timothy," or "Benedict," each of which would give a different flavor to "John Paul."
None of those are in serious consideration, however.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I really like Theodore - but Tony doesn't.
I also like Sebastian, but that has been vetoed. And Timothy. And Nathaniel.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
For a boy, we were torn between Peter Alexander and Samuel. The problem with Peter Alexander is my husband hates the name Peter for a son (he conceded because it is in memory of someone) and so we would basically just be calling the kid Alexander. But that puts the name at just the right length, without including his Chinese middle name (the Chinese side just view that as the name and ignore the American first name). Add that and it is just too long a name for the poor guy.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
George Richard or Richard George is really not that bad. Neither is Luke Timothy or Timothy Luke.
I am not a big fan of Theodore, but it does have nicknames that can be cute. I don't like Sebastian much. Timothy and Nathaniel are both nice.
scholarette, we have plans to someday have an Alex whose middle name would be Alexander. See, we don't want an Alexander for a first name with our last name. So we are planning on John Alexander, and call him Alex. If we ever get to three boys, that is... (It's the third boy's name we have picked out.)
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
We can't have Timothy because of Tony's last name. I do actually agree with him on that one.
Sebastian I like because of the Shakespearean element - given my name, and given the dearth of any other good boys names in most of Shakespeare's works. (Iago, anyone?)
[Edit - Oh, and Sebastian would be Seb, and Theodore would be Teddy. Not that it's actually going to happen.]
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I have a little bit of a thing against naming the kid something that isn't what we intend to call him. It doesn't bother me on other people's kids, but I just don't think I could do it myself. So the availability of cute nicknames doesn't help.
In other news -- I'll be 38 weeks tomorrow and John was born at exactly 38 weeks. Which means I'm going to start feeling "overdue" soon even though my due date is still half a month away.
<--- grouchy pregnant woman.
On the plus side, I'm off work as of yesterday and we still have a nanny for this week -- I can run some errands and maybe get some things done around the house. Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
quote:I also like Sebastian, but that has been vetoed. And Timothy. And Nathaniel.
Such lovely taste you have, imogen! Can't imagine what's wrong with Tony, though. (We chose Nathaniel, meaning I chose it and my husband agreed at the last minute, when I was on mag and freaking out about all the stuff we didn't have ready yet. Smart man. I let him choose the middle name.)
dkw, just think of all the stuff you'll be able to get done if you go to 40 weeks! Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
quote:Originally posted by dkw: I have a little bit of a thing against naming the kid something that isn't what we intend to call him. It doesn't bother me on other people's kids, but I just don't think I could do it myself. So the availability of cute nicknames doesn't help.
I like the idea of having a nickname for childhood, but a more 'grown up' name the kid could switch to when they got older (if they so chose).
I imagine whatever we call our child, we will ourselves use both nickname and full name.
Hang in there dkw!
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
I am a baby name addict, so I try to stuff as many names in there as I can.
My oldest daughter is called Buffy, a nickname we picked out before we picked her actual first name, which also starts with a B.
My kids all get a Japanese name, too, so we try to give each kid an exotic name, and a "normal" name. Of course, "normal" is a moving target.
Our latest son is named after a famous 17th century samurai (Musashi), but we call him Moose. It's easier on the gaijin that way. ("What's his name again? Mufasa? Mohammed?") And fits his personality perfectly.
I like exotic names, and like having my kids stand out (I'm sure they'll hate me for it) so I usually give them the exotic name as the first name, and the normal name in the middle.
A lot of people go by their middle names, so it's there just-in-case. I like that more than having a really cool name languish in the shadow of the first name, never getting heard or seen.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I, on the other hand, tend to put the unique name in the middle if it's there at all. Like Bridey-- her middle name is Niamh. I am just not going to inflict a lifetime of mispronunciation on my child (though I don't fault you for doing so.) Different priorities. It's not like it NEVER gets used, either-- I tend to sing-song their full name when they're not listening... So right now, seeing as she's two, people hear her middle name a LOT... Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Oh, Niamh, I love that name.
We went with Bronwen for our oldest. Which is marginally more pronounceable than her Japanese middle name.
One of our daughters is named Sakura, which I had avoided for my other two girls thinking that Americans would massacre it, and dislike it. But I've had the opposite experience--people love how different it is.
It also depends on what culture you're taking names from.
I think Japanese is pretty easy--once you know how the consanants sound in English, you just put equal stress on most syllables and you're 90% there--
but Celtic/Gaelic is VERY tricky. So I see why you would decide to put it in the #2 slot.
When we were considering Niamh, we were going to spell it Niav, or Neve, in anticipation of such problems.
BTW--I LOVE the name Bridey!
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Sachiko- do your kids look Japanese? That is one thing with my baby- her middle and last name are Chinese but she doesn't look at all Chinese (her daddy doesn't either, but her grandpa who currently lives in Hong Kong, looks very clearly Chinese). We get a lot of questions about her name and why we would pick a Chinese name.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
No, they don't look obviously Japanese.
So I do end up explaining a lot, "I'm part Japanese, they all have a Japanese name".
One of my daughters has a Hawaiian name, too, and that's harder to explain. It's easy to quickly say, "We're part Japanese"; it's another to say "It's Hawaiian, and, um, I just liked it."
My daughter Sakura has fair skin and blonde hair. People love her name. We've nicknamed her Suki and I have gotten nothing but compliments.
I used to fear names that were too weird, but the feedback here in rural Western American is 95% positive.
I have a friend whose kids are named Megan, Michael, Colin, except she spells them Maeghan, Mykaul, and Kaulyn. IMAO, prounouncing unfamiliar names is preferable to having to give alternate spellings to otherwise familiar names. Just MY arrogant opinion, though.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Bridey is an Irish nickname for Bridget (which is her first name.) Bridgets in Ireland quite often ended up being called Bride or Bridey until the middle of the last century, and occasionally still do. We thought Bridget Niamh just had the ring to it, and chose it to honor both a deceased childhood friend of mine and my Irish heritage (my mom went to Ireland and people kept stopping to ask her directions, upon which she would have to explain that she was American and had never been there before!) (I wanted Brigid, but my husband vetoed it-- he said she'd get "Frigid Brigid." So instead she gets "Bridget the M*****", which is worse because I find that word horribly offensive. Anyway...)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, and I think Sakura is a very pretty name (if she's pink and white it's perfect! It both describes her and honors her heritage.) And I love the nickname Suki, though if I saw a little blonde girl named Suki I would probably assume Scandinavian or maybe Slavic before Japanese! (I had a friend in elementary school whose family was Finnish. Her name was Suuvi. I kind of like that as a future middle name candidate... Since I'm sure we'll run through the girls' names we have picked out and need more. )
I don't have a problem with choosing (traditional in SOME culture) names just because you like them. I do agree that it is kind of annoying to purposefully mis-spell names just to be "unique." I'm on the fence with made-up names. If they have a definite meaning (like a combination of the parents' names) and sound good and are not strangely spelled or pronounced, I'm generally pretty okay with them. But if they are chosen just to be unique (or possibly bizarre), that just seems kind of cruel to me.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
My parents got allergy shots from an Irish emigrant namedBridie, and I've love it ever since.
I have considered in passing Danu for a girl, and then decided that, like Amaterasu, maybe I need to leave the goddess names be.
I love Finnish names too. We have Welsh, English, Hawaiian and Japanese; I want some names from ScandyLand next, and am considering Kaarina for a girl.
I have this made-up name that I've been on the fence about, which I am reluctant to post, because I like it rather a lot and have gotten very mixed reviews of it.
We all have names we consider normal or not abusively odd, and then names that are "just mean". A lot of people, especially older folks, think that my son Musashi's name is "just mean". There have been a few strangers at the hospital, visiting teachers, etc. who did NOT approve.
Funny, but it seems like people who don't approve of a lot of baby names, and people who are willing to be rude, are often the same people. Hee.
I've met like 3 or 4 other Japanese moms who have daughters names Sakura. It's like the Japanese version of Emily; #1 in Japan in 2000.
So that's our baby name niche--we pick conventional, top 10 names from other countries.
So while I raise my eyebrows at someone naming their daughter Keightlaynn instead of Caitlen....they probably could defend themselves by pointing out that at least their kids' names SOUND normal. True. My poor kids.
(not that you asked)
(I did warn you that I'm obsessed with baby naming)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
So am I! Do you read the Baby Name Wizard blog? And see, I have no problem with "top 10 in other countries." At least it's a name SOMEWHERE. I guess I'm like the government of Sweden. Though I didn't think their decision to disallow the parents to name their child what they wished was right, I also did NOT think Metallica was a good name for a baby girl...
Posted by MidnightBlue (Member # 6146) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: (I wanted Brigid, but my husband vetoed it-- he said she'd get "Frigid Brigid." So instead she gets "Bridget the M*****", which is worse because I find that word horribly offensive. Anyway...)
A friend of mine in elementary school was named Bridgid. (With that spelling.) I don't remember anyone making fun of her name.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Bridget is two, and my kids will be homeschooled. The teasing comes from my OWN FAMILY. Posted by lobo (Member # 1761) on :
Why M*****?
Is it a bad word or something?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Replace "Br" with "M" and you will get the word. And yes, it's an offensive term in most contexts. Search that word with my screenname and you'll find quite a few times I've talked about it... I don't want to completely derail this thread yet again. Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
I used to want to give a daughter the middle name Arachne. I think I'm over that.
As a spinner and a weaver, it would be really cool, the fact that the girl of the myth killed herself, less so.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
KQ--Yeah, I've been to the Baby Name Wizard Blog quite a few times before. I enjoyed the book a lot! Regular names, especially Anglo ones, with all their variations to pad the book--those baby name books are a dime a dozen. But the Baby Name Wizard system is really innovative, IMAO.
I've always wanted to take up spinning, weaving, dying, etc., and all the more so since I found out that a lot of my Japanese family used to silk-farm up in the mountains. Some of my favorite Japanese names include Ayako ("child of silk") and Shiori ("poem-weaver").
I'm thinking about putting another boy name on my short list: Asa. I always avoided it before, figgering that my kids
(who are homeschooled but that doesn't stop dumb grownups and relatives from teasing them *nod towards KQ*)
would be called "A**-a" or something. But the Asa I know from church is a really popular 17 yo guy, who loves his name, and everyone else apparently likes it, including his wrestling coach, who apparently just named his own baby son Asa, partly because he likes this kid so much.
Breyerchic, what about using Niobe?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I love the name Asa. And Ayako and Shiori are both beautiful. Niobe is pretty, too...
I had a friend in middle school named Ariadne. The fact that it's difficult to pronounce didn't seem to give her much trouble by that point, though she confided that it had been hard to deal with when she was smaller.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
KQ, you like my names. Thanks.
Ariadne--which is why I'm a fan of giving kids a cutesy easy nickname when they're little, and letting them decide when they want to use the Big Name.
If I had a little Ariadne, we'd probably end up calling her Danny or something.
No one could pronounce "Bronwen" until a year or two ago, so it was handy that we called her Buffy instead.
Posted by theCrowsWife (Member # 8302) on :
quote:Originally posted by Sachiko: Shiori ("poem-weaver")
I had a Japanese roommate for a summer who was named Shiori. I love the meaning!
--Mel
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Can I ask you something?
What do you think of Shioriume?
My great-great grandfather, the last samurai in my line, had plum orchards, and when they were in blossom he would invite people over to picnic under the trees (it must have been pretty cold; plums blossom in late winter) and write poems.
So I thought I'd combine Shiori (poem weaver) with Ume (plum blossom). Shioriume.
Whatcha think?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Mmm. It's a bit long for me, and unpronouncable. That is, I can pronounce Shiori, and I can pronounce Ume, but Shioriume is a bit much. And while Ume is an okay name, I don't like it nearly as much as Shiori. I'd tend to like Ume as a middle name more.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
I was thinking that if I was so unwise as to actually combine Shioriume, then I would relegate it to the middle name slot.
I'm fairly intrepid as a namer, but I like to think I'm not THAT dumb.
I love both, and I'm always looking at naming from a scarcity standpoint, which adds to the sense of desperation: "But what if we never have another daughter? We need to use ALL the good names!"
Which brings me to another naming issue: I've been considering giving multiple middle names to my kids. It's certainly not the Japanese way to do it, and I know the more anal people at the Social Security office aren't too happy about it, but I meet more and more people who get away with it.
???
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I like Shiori, my husband likes Ume. My husband and my daughter both have two part middle names, though each part is only one syllable. They don't have hyphens which upsets people. When I got married, I made my maiden name into a second middle name (again no hyphen- we don't like hyphens). People get confused but they deal.
[ June 17, 2008, 10:16 PM: Message edited by: scholarette ]
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Okay, this is getting ridiculous. I am now sleeping 14 hours a day (there's a bed in our upstairs playroom, thank goodness). I get up to pee 3 times each night. I have already lost 4 pounds, which I'm not sure is from not being able to eat much from the nausea or from the OHSS fluid leaving my body. I still feel puffy and bloated, so I think it's the nausea. I really don't know what I'm going to do when Aerin starts speech therapy on top of gym and swimming. Then there's summer camp.
The pain and nausea are starting to get to me. I know the pain is from the OHSS, but it still scares me. I can't relax and I'm too tired to relieve stress the way I usually do (cleaning). I'm worried that the babies aren't getting enough nutrition. I'm going to talk to my doctor about Ensure shakes or something like that. I want big, fat babies, but I don't think that's in the cards for me, so I'll settle for medium-sized babies.
We've pretty much settled on Camille and Athena for girls. Our boy names are William and Sean Henry. We have the Hebrew names picked out, too, but we don't share those until after the bris and/or naming.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Mrs. M, how far along are you?
Much sympathy header your way.
Scholarette, what do you think of the name Coramai?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(((hugs))) for Mrs.M. Poor thing. I remember those days, and not fondly... Those are all very nice names.
Sachiko, you can give more than one middle name (a trend that is gaining more and more acceptance, though it has always been done in many Spanish speaking countries and some others.) That's what I'd do if I wanted to use both, I guess, though I like Shiori so much I might just give her that for a first name and either make Shiori Ume her whole name, or make it Shiori Umi (second middle) if you wanted her to have an "anglo" option in there.
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Sachiko, how do you pronounce Bronwen? I assumed it was straightforward, but you said people didn't know how until recently.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Poor Mrs M.
I am now over the sleepy stage - I stayed up till 11 last night! - but I remember it well.
Rest as much as you can. *Good wishes*
Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
My daughter has two middle names. Her name is Eliza Nicole Ananda M. I really wanted to use Ananda since I was a teenager. It is a sanskrit name and it means the joy without which the world would cease to exist. I fell in love with the meaning and wanted to use it as a middle name. Then my husband and I got really attached to the name Eliza. However, I didn't like Eliza Ananda together. So, our plans were to name her Eliza Nicole and save Ananda for later. Then I met my baby and knew I had to use Ananda. Hence, two middle names. No one gave me any grief about it. I think of Ananda as more a private message from mommy and daddy and if she wants to simply use Eliza Nicole publicly that is fine with me.
Posted by theCrowsWife (Member # 8302) on :
My parents gave me three middle names when I was born, and somehow got away with it with Social Security. However, when I went to get a new card after getting married, they claimed that their computers wouldn't allow that many characters in a middle name. So I dropped the one that I had never liked, anyway. I am so not a Louise.
--Mel
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
My sympathy, Mrs. M.
I have a friend whose parents gave her two middle names, and when she married she added her husband's last name to hers (no hyphen) so now she has five initials.
I now have just about every pre-labor sign in the book -- of course all the book(s) have to say about any of them is "this probably means your labor will be starting in a few days to a few weeks." Yeah, that's helpful. Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I like Coramai (assuming I am pronouncing it right), though I like Shiori better. I think I would do Shiori Ume as two names in the tradition of Mary Ellen, Mary Ann, etc (where the two names are really the first name). And then give an English middle name.
I had all the prelabor signs starting at 36 weeks. I induced at 40. Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I didn't really have any "pre-labor" the first time around. John came at 38 weeks, labor started overnight and by the time I was awake enough to realize what was happening it was obviously labor.
So this "is it or isn't it" feeling is new to me. I liked it the other way better. Plus the fact that this time it's complicated by needing to have someone watch John once it's time to go to the hospital. It's like I'm constantly on edge "do we need to call someone now?!?" I didn't have much timing worry last time -- the hospital is 6 blocks away so I could pretty much wait until I felt the urge to push and still get there in time. Having to schedule a babysitter to arrive is messing with my laid-back attitude.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I totally hear ya, dkw. I had four (kind of five) people lined up to watch Lego when I went into labor just in case I called several and no one was home. It's very nerve-racking.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Not to mention that the pressure to really be in labor, once you're prepared for it (babysitters, etc.) can stop labor.
BTDT! I bow to the pressure and I've always ended up going in at a 4 and then getting induced.
I may go with more than one middle name.
I like Ananda, and have done so ever since reading A Swiftly Tilting Planet as a kid.
Bronwen is pronounced like Brawn-when, or, since "w" is pronounced "oo" in Welsh, Brahn-oo-en.
I think it's pretty easy, and have found that other people who grew up reading fantasy (The Dark Is Rising, LotR, and so on) are okay with it.
It's just some people, like people at the pharmacy, who stumble over it.
Sometimes people think she is a boy, especially because most Americans seem to prefer the -wyn suffix to names, which technically is a male suffix.
And since there's the trend of giving girls surname names, and of surname names being 2 syllables and ending in a -en sound....it doesn't stand out as much now as when we gave it to her 6 years ago.
I'm not sure what to do about the Shiori/Ume thing.
The extra middle name thing will help relieve the pressure; I may just have to have extra daughters. Or maybe a big tank of goldfish.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Bronwen is a very traditional name, I've known at least ten in my life (of various spellings)-- personally known, that is. I've always liked it. Ananda is not to my taste, but that may be because I knew a quite wacko girl named that (she had changed her name from Amanda when she turned 18...)
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I like Shiori Ume as two names (or one combined but with the space, like Mary Lou). I think smooshing them together would make it harder to notice the beauty of each of them.
I also have lots of people on my very complicated babysitting list -- people who work during the day but are available in the evenings, people who I'd feel comfortable calling at 8am but not at 2am, people who I'd be happy to call at 2am but who live 20 minutes away, someone who lives a few blocks away and is available all day but really isn't my first choice . . . once things really get moving it's going to be some kind of weird game to try to guess how long we'll stay home so we can decide who to call (last time we got to the hospital right before transition, and I'd like to time it that way again, if possible).
Eh, if baby waits until this weekend Mom will be here and we won't have to worry about it.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Of course, I loved Charlotte for a long time, until on the wall during a WIC appointment, I saw a picture with CHARLOTTE scrawled across the bottom of it. That was it for that name; it was taken and I wasn't going to have anything further to do with it.
My Australian friends say it's (Bronwen) pretty common there. Where are you from, KQ?
I may just give Shiori and Ume to different girls; if I cut down on the other Japanese girl names in the queue, so that I have Shiori, Ume, Megumi and Aozora, then that's only four more daughters. ("only" four, but then I would love a dozen kids.) And then of course Mai, in Coramai; that's Japanese too.
Naming boys is easier. So far, raising them is too, hee.
I seriously dislike having to line up sitters for having a baby, so much sympathy there. It's uncomfortable to ask, and then to have to call at any time of the day or night. I hate "owing" people.
But you sound like you have a good handle on the situation. We weren't able to make that work when we were in the military, so I would wait until my parents visited for the weekend and would desperately try to go into labor while they were there.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm from California. Many of the Bronwens I know are from families either originally from Australia or the UK (particularly Wales and the North of England), sometimes it's a family name or sometimes given after a friend of one of the parents or just a name they liked growing up. One or two are named after characters in books or stories, though. (Isn't Bronwen in the Mabinogi? It's been a while since I read them.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, and I have a much easier time naming girls than boys! Always have! (Which I guess is a good thing, since we're at 100% girls so far, and based on family history are likely to have a preponderance of girls...)
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Okay, that explains it. It IS a top ten name in Wales, after all...well, used to be, anyway. Top Ten there NOW is probably all Sophie and Emma and whatnot.
There are Bronwens in Madelaine L'Engle books and in Susan Cooper's Dark Is Rising sequence. My DH and I both read those when we were growing up (at different times; he's older than I am) and both liked it.
It's easier to name girls than boys, in that there are three times more names, and you can use boy's names on girls too, and don't have to worry so much about "Is it TOO weird? Is it feminine enough?"
Whereas with boys, it can be hard to find a name that is masculine, has a pedigree, but isn't overused.
(Unless of course it's not important to you that a name clearly define gender, or not be a made-up name.)
Me, I am really indecisive--at least I think I am ;P--and it's easier setting my parameters and zeroing in on a boy's name that's clearly a boy's name, but top 200 or lower.
Whereas with girl names....sky's the limit!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I don't tend toward boys' names on girls. Even Jamie, which in most parts of the country is firmly feminized by now, still strikes me as one I absolutely would not use on a girl (even if James was not our number 1 pick for a boy.) And I really don't care about overused; if I like a name, I use it whether it has become popular in the meantime or not. (Witness Emma-- I picked out her name when I was 14, when it was not as popular, and we decided to use it despite the fact that apparently everyone picked that name out as a teenager... If we like a name, we use it and don't care if it's number 1, number 158, or doesn't even make the top 1000 list.)
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Hmmm. I am an automatic snob about that. It's something I'll confront in the next few years, since I really like Lucy for a girl, and that's getting very popular.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I see it this way; trends come and trends go. I have never been one to be swayed either way by trends, really; just as it doesn't make sense to say that a harvest gold couch is attractive to me because it happens to become "in", it doesn't make sense to decide I don't like bluegrass because it gets popular for a time (remember when O Brother came out? Man, all the wannabes pretending to like bluegrass, which I REALLY DO like, got on my nerves. I didn't mind the people discovering it for the first time and really liking it, but the pretenders irked me.) Trends will pass, but in the end I want to be happy with the choices I make in clothes, furniture, music, and childrens' names for the rest of my life. So I let the trends go by me and listen to the music, buy the furniture and clothing, and name my children the names I like, regardless of what everyone else is or is not doing. Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
That sounds wonderful, and logical, and I admire it.
I tend to be Opposite Girl when it comes to trends, which makes me just as much a trend-follower as anyone else, since I'm following them...but in the negative...it's the ugly truth about being contrarian. *rolls eyes at self*
It kept me from reading Harry Potter until the fourth book came out, because I was sure that anything THAT popular couldn't be any good.
And to be honest, I still think that HP isn't as good as Diana Wynne Jones' books, but they are consumingly enjoyable, and part of the enjoyment is that so many other people like it, too, and it's a very fun path-of-least-resistance to join a ready-made community that knows the book world you're talking about.
I'm not music literate enough to know the trends, so I simply like what I like; and I quilt a lot, so colors are what they are, and are defined on a scale of how they interact instead of how fashionable they are. I make a lot of my own clothes (sounds ghastly, doens't it), which means a lot of long, full skirts and headscarves, regardless of fashion.
I think I disregard fashion more than the people around me would prefer, actually. I once told someone, "I homeschool," and she said, "I figured that." Hee.
But with the names--I range far afield. Lately I've been wandering through some lists from Norwegian colony ship manifests bound for medieval Iceland.
I love really difficult (by American standards) Scandinavian names, and Puritan names, and word names, ones that make most normal non-name saturated people (my husband, for instance) blanche. "You wouldn't really call your kid THAT, would you?!?"
So the more I name, or list names, or otherwise act out in my naming addiction, the more I have to pay attention to popularity trends--I must, if I'm to have any sense of proportion at all.
Otherwise I don't have a sense of "too weird" and it's my children who will suffer. It sounds egotistical, but I think my appetite is such that I can't permit myself to indulge like you can.
example: I think Bluebell, Apple, Gudrun, Godiva and Rapunzel are nice names...and if I had the guts, I'd SO use Hialeah or Prairie or Tallulah for a girl.(afrid of offending Native Americans by hijacking their names) Or Sacagawea; I LOVE Sacagawea. We nearly named my second daughter Halcyon, which I still love. But...not everyone agrees with me, and, like I said, people who don't like unusual baby names are often the same people who are rude enough to tell you AND YOUR CHILD so.
And...maybe I worry too much about what other people are thinking.
After having named 6 kids, a child with a "normal" name would stand out. I can't ruin the momentum.
I admire you using Emma, come hell or high popularity. There's such a trend for "different" names, which I'm obviously slavish about (guess I'm not so different after all). And when my ex-SIL had a baby two months ago, she named her something unthinkable to me: Jennifer. And NO MIDDLE NAME.
But then it struck me that Jennifer, with no middle name, was a more contrarian baby-naming act than what I engage in.
So I suppose that if I REALLY wanted to surprise people, I should name my next daughter Mary. I might as well; Sacagawea is already taken.
[ June 19, 2008, 08:18 AM: Message edited by: Sachiko ]
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
I liked Jamie for a boy, but my husband vetoed it. And then I realized I liked it because of Jamie Lannister!
James was probably my second choice name, kq. (Family name.) Just after Nathaniel was born (and we'd already named him), I was looking at the picture of him my husband put up on the hospital room wall and agonizing because I thought he looked more like a James than a Nathaniel. Fortunately, he looks like a Nathaniel in person.
I liked (still do) James Oliver, which includes two family names, and then I realized...Jamie Oliver...
For a girl, I liked Callie Jane (again, still do) and am SO ANNOYED that Callie is becoming popular because of Grey's Anatomy. Callie Jane is my great-great-grandmother's name, so I HAD IT FIRST! I like your approach about Emma, kq...but I still hate the thought that people might think I named my daughter after a TV character.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Sachiko: It kept me from reading Harry Potter until the fourth book came out, because I was sure that anything THAT popular couldn't be any good.
Heh. Ditto.
Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
Emma was a name I had picked out in high school and intended to use. It seems lots of people had the same idea. Its off my list now though because not being in the top 20 names is a requirement for me. I still think it is a gorgeous name though.
Posted by theCrowsWife (Member # 8302) on :
My husband likes the name Greenberry for a boy (middle name, at least) because one of his ancestors had that name. I'm not convinced, yet.
--Mel
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
I always wanted to use Isabeau, and now draw back because of the doubtless constant "No, not IsaBEL, IsaBEAU" conversations I'd have to have.
I guess I could just go with Dove Isabeau and call her Dove.
Callie Jane is lovely!
When I was in high school I wanted to be original and use Hannah and Abigail.
Isn't it weird how with names, you see how many different people can come to the same conclusion at the same time? It's like we're thinking like a school of fish swims.
I like Greenberry. It has character. But then I like anything a little different, or that connects with ancestors. I've come to love naming my kids after ancestors.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I used Halcyon as a minor character in a story once. I like weirder names, but my husband likes traditional. I do think that SF and fantasy names should be avoided, since people know we watch a lot of SF. One of my friends named his son Elric and I groaned, esp since the character is not really a good guy. (Silent groan- not nice to actually say that to parents). Of course, I have a weird name that is the same name as a member of the Donnor party. It upsets my mom to no end when I tell people I was named after a cannibal (my mom did not know about the Donnor when she named me).
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Scholarette--hee! named after a Cannibal.
I knew an LDS family with all boys, all had a name beginning with T.
They settle on Talyn for the name.
They have the baby, and then get cold feet--"Oh, no, we can't name him Talyn, it rhymes with 'stallion', the kids at school will make fun of him."
So what do they name him instead?
Tucker.
*true story*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:I like your approach about Emma, kq...but I still hate the thought that people might think I named my daughter after a TV character.
We had that thought, since the "Friends" baby was named Emma just a year or two before we had our Emma. But I'm lucky-- anyone who knows me at all will believe me when I say, "Nope, I named her after a Kate Wolf song."
(In fact, all our daughters' names have musical connections. It's kinda cool. A theme we weren't fully invested in being a theme but it has worked out, but kind of an "in joke" among our family 'cause most people wouldn't know it.)
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
We nicknamed Bronwen, Buffy, after the heroine/show.
We didn't get near as many comments on the "Buffy" name as I thought we would.
It's amazing what you can get away with.
One of my friends in CO--in her ward/church's nursery there's a little boy named Turtle. Honestly. It's not a nickname.
I think it's cute.
KQ, Kate Wolf is the singer you told me to check out instead of Kate Rusby, yes?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
No, that was Iris DeMent. But you'd probably like Kate Wolf, too, I always recommend Kate Wolf to those who like Stan Rogers, though they have totally different voices, and their music is a little different (Stan's music was more Celtic-folk when it wasn't mainstream folk, whereas Kate's was more country/bluegrass-folk when it wasn't mainstream folk), their songs have a similar "feel" to them in that they tell stories, of people, places, events, evoking a sense of history and time I have rarely experienced in others' music.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Okay, so, Iris DeMent, Kate Wolf. (I love Stan Rogers.)
*writes note on Post-It*
Thanks.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Out of curiousity, does anyone here want twins?
Is it just me, or does it seem like twins usually happen only to people who are appalled by the idea?
I'd love twins, but none of my 7 pregnancies have been anything but singletons.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I really want my sister to have twins. Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
It's not that I don't want twins, it's just that I'm so high-risk already that I worry about having 2 more micropreemies. Also, we have 2 sets of twins in my family, so I know firsthand how difficult it is to care for 2 infants at once. Spend some time with someone with twin babies, Sachiko, and you might feel differently. I thought twins would be neat until my cousin Kathy had identical twin boys when I was 16. She would bring them to our house every weekend. By the time they were 6 months old, I had gotten over my twin fixation.
Also, you have twice the hormones when your pregnant with twins, so you'll have twice the symptoms. Though I'm pretty sure I'm having 10 times the symptoms right now. As my OB put it, it's like my body is running 2 marathons a day.
I've actually gotten pregnant with multiples each time I've gotten pregnant. Certainly part of it is the fertility treatments, but it's still pretty rare for a woman to only ever get pregnant with multiples. It's because I'm a multiple egg producer and Andrew is very tall and... (I can't think of a non-vulgar way to put it) has a lot of guys. We're a lethal combination. If I wasn't so bad at being pregnant, these babies would be our sixth and seventh kids (and it's my 3rd pregnancy).
I'm seeing the perinatologist next week and my OB is scheduling my cerclage. She's going to wait about 3-4 weeks.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I'm regretting my decision to eat an entire bag of popcorn during the 45 minute nausea respite I had this evening. But it was the only thing that appealed to me. Stupid pregnant brain.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Mrs. M, I hope I didn't sound like I was criticizing you. I wasn't.
You get pregnant with multiples every time? Wow.
I can appreciate not wanting to have to risk micropreemies. I'm high risk for pre term labor myself, and one of my children died soon after birth because of prematurity. So I'm probably pretty stupid for wanting twins at all...I should feel lucky for what I've got.
Have you ever read Managing Morning Sickness? I get pretty pukey with my pregnancies, especially when I carry girls, and that book helped me manage the nausea better.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Oh, no, not at all!
I'm so sorry to hear that you lost a child. We've had some pretty devastating miscarriages and we came very close to losing our Aerin, so I got a glimpse into just how unspeakably terrible that is.
You're not stupid at all for wanting twins. I sometimes feel guilty for not wanting them (not that I don't want these specific babies, but I only wanted one baby). There are so many women who go through years of fertility treatments and never get pregnant, who would love to be in my shoes. I also felt pretty stupid for expecting to only see 1 baby on the ultrasound. Then I had to resist the urge to run upstairs and kick my fertility guy in the shins. He is so not getting a picture for his baby wall.
I haven't read that book, but I will now! Flat ginger ale works a little bit and I can usually force down saltines when I'm feeling dizzy from low blood sugar, but that's about it.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I had one day this pregnancy when I could not stop vomitting -- I woke up at 5am throwing up and it just kept going. I saw the doctor around noon and he said to try 1 tsp of flat ginger ale every 5 minutes.
I have no idea if that advice would be effective, because he also gave me a shot that was very effective. Except it knocked me out, as pretty much all drugs do. But it stopped the vomitting first and I had a glass of 7-up before I fell asleep.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I had triplets in my 2-3 year old preschool class. They had an older sister too. The pregnancy was completely natural. Needless to say their mom was in shock when she found out it was triplets. The kids were very funny and very sweet. They really looke out for each other. However, I always felt bad for their mom. She always looked miserable and just exhausted. People said it was an improvement from when they were babies. Working with them 9 hours a day cured me of any desire to have a multiple birth. The first thing my husband asked at the original ultrasound was "it's not twins is it?" We were very happy with just our Ellie. I am sure you will love your twins and won't be able to imagine your life without them in no time. Kids seem to have that magical effect on most.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*nods* I babysat triplets. I had the same experience-- went from "oh, multiples would be so fun" to "I have no desire for multiples, thank you."
Mrs.M, I hope both your babies stay put until they're fully "baked." (((hugs))) You're in my prayers, and the other day Emma even prayed, "take care of Aerin's Mommy's babies in her tummy."
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I know this is crazy, but there are times when I think twins wouldn't be so bad- then I would know for sure I am done and get my tubes tied. We are pretty sure we don't want just one, but right now the idea of the massive pain caused by going off the pill, followed by 40 weeks of pregnancy suffering, recoup time is just too overwhelming for me. When I think that I kinda want two more, the thought of doing it all twice is way, way too much.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
That's why I like the idea--50% more pregnancy for 100% more baby.
It's the Sam's Club style of procreation.
My holdup is postpartum weight issues. I pack it on when I'm nursing and it doesn't start to come off until the last baby is a year old...IF I'm not already pregnant again by then, which I usually am.
(I've been pregnant every calendar year since 1999.)
My husband's best friend has twin girls--so at one point they had a 4 yo ds, a 2yo ds, and then newborn twins. !!!
My kids are close in age, but...wow!
Still. It's always such a production, emotionally, when I get pregnant...and such a production afterwards, that I'd much rather go through it once and come out the other side with two more kids in tow.
I don't actually throw up when I have m/s, (makes me feel weirdly like a lucky failure); I just retch enough to tear my stomach and get ulcers.
I have great luck with ginger and green tea.
I can't recommened Managing Morning Sickness enough.
There are lots of ideas in there--like, keeping cool with fans, staying warm...
aromatherapy: mint and lemon help a TON; chop up a lemon, wrap it in a handkerchief, and take it everywhere with you so you can sniff it when you start to feel icky);
and lists of foods but flavor and texture. I found I need earthy and sour foods when I've got m/s, so I have lots of hot sour soup and miso and citrus.
Other people need bready or sweet--I had a friend with terrible, debilitating m/s, the kind where she had to be on an IV at home and have help come in, and she swore by cinnamon buns and Wendy's Frostees because "they're good going down and not too bad coming back up".
And when things got really bad for me, and the ginger/green tea/raspberry wasn't helping as much, I would take a Benedryl.
I know some ladies don't like to take anything when they're pregnant, but when I would get to the point where I wasn't sleeping more than 20 minutes at a time because of the retching, the antihistamines would both calm the nausea a bit and make me sleepy.
Being too tired will make m/s much worse. You need to get plenty of rest.
Morning sickness is a hard job--my sympathy and praise for all you ladies slogging around with that burden right now.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Sachiko: My husband's best friend has twin girls--so at one point they had a 4 yo ds, a 2yo ds, and then newborn twins. !!!
I know someone (not very well) who had twins. And then when the twins were just under 2, had quads. (No fertility drugs involved.)
I guess they survived (even had a few more singletons), because the twins must be about 16 now. Maybe 17.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Rivka--
nuh-uh!
Twins THEN quads?
*mind boggles*
Wow.
Posted by Valentine014 (Member # 5981) on :
I want twins, but I can say that because I just got married and have babies on the brain. I have always wanted them and for the reasons others do, two for one pregnancy, and because twins are adorable. Ever since my mom told me she thought it was possible I was a twin (but wondered if some heavy bleeding early on in the pregnancy wasn't a miscarriage). Boy and boy, girl and girl, boy and girl, identical or no, I wouldn't care. I babysat twin newborns once and I must say that it was a very difficult night, but it didn't sway me. I don't have much to worry about, though. No twins run in my family or his.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
See, I don't anticipate ever saying "stop" to having kids. So I figure I have time to have kids, I don't need to try to speed things along by having multiples-- especially since that would put me at more risk for complications and a cesarian, which could complicate any pregnancies after that one.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
I'm not in a hurry intellectually, but my body seems to be--7 pregnancies in 8 years of marriage, no matter how many "goalies on the ice" we've used.
I've gotten to like the babies, and look forward to having more, so while I'm not thinking "I've got to have all of them NOW" I'm also not thinking I want the flood to slow down.
Even though I have roughly another 20 years, give or take, of childbearing left.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I've had 5 pregnancies in 5 years of marriage-- that's why I say there's no hurry! I guess I figure it's going to be enough, in the end, without the extra stress!
If I finished at 40, and kept going at this rate, I would end up with 10 kids. But we're thinking at some point we may try to speed it up a little, if we can (just probably not right now) since I think I want more than that.
But I don't know that I'll have until 40, or that I'll be finished then, either. My mom's family is decidedly varied on when menopause occurs; some early, some right on average, some late, and a lot of emergency hysterectomies precluding natural menopause in the direct line...
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
I'd like 12; one of my close friends in Boise has 15. She had hers between a year and two years apart, usually getting pregnant again by the time the last one was 9 months old.
I personally prefer having two really close, like a year apart, and then cooling for a couple of years, then having another two...
but of course since I've never planned a pregnancy anyway, it's all just conjecture.
KQ, if you guys are going to speed it up at some point, wouldn't having two at once be a fast way of doing that? Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Sachiko: Rivka--
nuh-uh!
Twins THEN quads?
*mind boggles*
Wow.
That was everyone's reaction at the time, as I recall.
All the local girls' high school "chesed groups" sent young women over for at least 2 years, as I recall. So there was a fair bit of community support. But yeah, quite glad it wasn't me. Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Twins and then quads blows my mind too. I'm still amazed at how remarkably sane my aunt is after having 2 sets of twins (at the time they had a 6 year old girl, 4 year old girl, and twin 2 year old boys when the twin girls were born). I don't think I could have done it.
Much as I love children and my own little one, I won't be having anywhere near 10 or 12 children. I think 2 would be great (which works out well I think, since I had Beanie at 30 and would like to be done with pregnancies by 35, while having a little breather in between). I can't believe Beanie is 6 months old today! Where has the time gone?!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:KQ, if you guys are going to speed it up at some point, wouldn't having two at once be a fast way of doing that?
Perhaps-- but it might also complicate and limit our overall fertility, as I mentioned...
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Don't forget - twice the babies, twice the pregnancy symptoms. I slept for 10 hours last night, 5 hours today, and I'm exhausted (Andrew is home all day to watch Aerin, thank goodness). I also think I might throw up the ginger ale I just drank. I've lost 5 pounds so far.
Thank goodness for the teenage girls at shul. They love babies, and Aerin, too. I have a cadre of babysitters. They're so excited for the twins (small shul in a small town - everyone knows).
My cerclage is scheduled for July 23rd. I'll be a little more than 12 weeks along. I'm praying that the nausea and exhaustion will at least get manageable by then and that the OHSS will be almost gone.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Poor Mrs M! I'm glad you have so much help.
I'm at 18 1/2 weeks. 2 weeks till our next ultrasound and I cannot wait. I want to see the baby again.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
2nd labor = 2hrs, 50 min.
So, yeah, it was a bit faster. Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay!!! Congrats!! Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
Wow!
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
Are we going to get more news than this?
Posted by Noemon (Member # 1115) on :
Congrats, Dana!
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I think I'm adjusting to the nausea and exhaustion, which worries me. I keep thinking - what if it's just that the hormones are going down because something is wrong? I am now almost completely insane. And very uncomfortable.
I am also now showing! It's a combination of twins and OHSS, but I have a noticeable belly. I'm in that "is she fat or pregnant?" stage which is so wonderful for your ego. None of my clothes fit right.
If I see one more smug, pregnant celebrity I am going to scream. Yes, I usually avoid gossip magazines, but that's all they have to read at the doctor's offices and I get so nervous that I have to have some kind of distraction.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Glad you're feeling better! I have been known to fall into the "I feel better so something must be wrong" camp at times. (Mrs. M)
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
2nd ultrasound all done - baby looks good. Slightly long for his* age, all arms, legs, fingers, feet etc present and intact.
*Yes, he's a boy. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oooh, a boy! Do you have a name? Are you not decided yet? Or do you not share ahead of time (that would be okay too. )
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
We have some names, but aren't going to make a final decision until the baby is born.
(So far James, Tobias, Nicholas, Xavier, Alexander and Jeremy have all made the shortlist. Some are liked more than others. )
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
(Unfortunately, Tony is still vetoing Sebastian.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, I adore the name Jeremy.
I have a feeling I'm never going to be able to use it since that was an old boyfriend's name. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(Not to mention the dearth of boys. )
James, of course, is still top of our boys' names list. And I like Nicholas a lot, though it's not on our list yet it may be someday if we have enough kids. Alexander has always been a favorite for both of us though we can't name a kid that for a first name, with our last name. *sigh*
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I like Timothy but we can't have it because of last name issues.
Pesky surnames.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
A boy! imogen, that's wonderful! How exciting! And much congrats on having made it (more than at this point) halfway. I couldn't be happier for you. And I love all the names on your shortlist.
We have last name issues, too, which ruled out James for us, which is a pity, because I love that name.
I'm 10+ weeks today, which is a little past where I lost B the last time. I have my ultrasound with Dr. Christmas and I just know he's going to make fun of me. The last time I saw him, I was swearing I would never have another baby.
The ever-present nausea has been joined by heartburn. My granny, bless her heart, asked, "Do the babies have hair already?"
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
LOL!
Do you know, I had so much heartburn with this one, and she was born the baldest of all three?
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
The babies look good (and so cute). A is measuring 2 days ahead of B, which means they were probably conceived on different days. Dr. Christmas was much more mellow than I remember. He didn't mock me at all. He thinks my cervix is good enough for a McDonald cerclage (easier, less riskier one). We're all aiming for 32 weeks - anything more than that will be fantastic, but that's what's realistic.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
That's great, Mrs.M!!!
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Such good news Mrs M.
Go babies, go! (Grow, babies, grow!)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
We could start a cheer squad, imogen. Grow babies, grow! Staaaaaay put!
Posted by lobo (Member # 1761) on :
quote:Originally posted by imogen: (Unfortunately, Tony is still vetoing Sebastian.)
Isn't that the crab from Little Mermaid? It is quite a long name. How will you shorten it (or will you?). Seb, bast (that could lead to bad things...).
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I've known two little Spanish-speaking Sebastians (pronounced, approximately, seh-BAS-tee-ahn in Spanish) who were nicknamed Bato (BAH-toh) and Tio (TEE-oh.)
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Well, it's not going to happen (we each have the power of veto, so he's within his rights), but I'd shorten it to Seb.
I've known Sebastians nicknamed Bas also, but I don't like it so much.
(KQ - pom poms at the ready!)
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Hooray for sonograms!
I liked Sebastian. It was vetoed.
Choosing boys' names was complicated because I teach. (I think you mentioned the same thing is a problem for you, right, imogen? Or your husband?) Anyway, while Nicholas and Alexander were both sort of on my list, I ended up crossing them off because of the dozens of Nicks and Alexes I've had in 10 years of teaching.
Posted by CaySedai (Member # 6459) on :
The Social Security Administration has a baby name list. You can look at the Top 10 (or 20, 50, 100 or 1,000) by year, or search for a particular name to see if it's in the Top 1,000. For example, the name Unique was No. 938 in 2005.
This could be handy for people not wanting their kid to have the most popular name.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Only in America, though.
The Baby Name Map, on the other hand, has worldwide data, and it's visually represented.
*is a geek*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(I suppose I should add it's worldwide but includes only countries where the predominant/official language uses Roman lettering.)
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Well - it's a girl! They'd told us originally it was a boy... We had his name picked out and everything!!! Then we had another screening on Wednesday and they decided she's a girl instead... Who knew?
All is well - healthy and extremely active...
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
cmc-- we always bring a gender-neutral going home outfit to the hospital. That way if we have a "surprise" we're prepared! (Plus, their going home outfits go in their box with their "special" outfits-- dresses worn after blessings, since they all wear the same gown, Easter dresses and bonnets, etc.-- so they can bring THEIR babies home in it someday, if they want to.)
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
My cousin had a girl today, Liliana Esme (I think the spelling is right). We're excited and probably will get to see her Saturday. She has an 18 month old sister Madeleine Elizabeth.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
What a pretty name! Congratulations!
cmc - I get really nervous about something like that happening. In my case, I had so many ultrasounds with Aerin that there wasn't any doubt. Also, I had them with the super-special ultrasound machine (the one in the perinatologist's office), so they were clearer. I can't wait to find out the babies' sexes.
I also can't wait until these babies are born (at term, please G-d), because I am miserable. This is the last week of my first trimester and the nausea and heartburn are getting worse! I'm not gaining any of the weight back and my na-nas are getting bigger already. I am not good at being pregnant.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Oh gosh... I have heartburn like I'm getting paid for it!!! And, I really pee about a million times a day.
We were at a specialist's office when they told us it was a boy and at the ob's office when they said girl... They've never known this specialist to be wrong, so they were talking about how they're going to give him a hard time about it. To be honest - I don't care much what it ends up being, as long as the baby's healthy! ; )
Mrs.M - when will you be able to find out sexes? I've got an uncle who's only two years older than me (he's the youngest, my mom's the oldest) and they're having twins. They're opting not to find out, though...
breyerchic04 - Congrats on the new addition to the fam!!!
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
I don't follow this thread much ... not being pregnant I feel like I'm in the wrong room ... did I just see that Mrs. M is having twins? Congratulations! And wow, wow, wow. You're just ... wow.
cmc, for what it's worth, the only times I've known the sex to be wrongly determined, it was when the doctor said it was a girl and it turned out to be a boy. It seems less frequent that they predict a boy and it turns out a girl. Don't know what that does for you, but good luck.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Cmc - at least it keeps it surprising!
I'll be fine if our little one turns out to be a girl after all, but the ultrasound seemed pretty conclusive - no great profile shot, but a wonderful genitals picture.
Mrs M - I hear you on the breasts! Though mine got bigger at the start (*grumble* G cup *grumble*) - and haven't grown again since 8 weeks or so. So maybe yours will stop. (Here's hoping...)
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Yes, twins. People are now guessing that I'm 5 months along. I'm 12.5 weeks. I'm in maternity clothes already. Of course, none of my maternity clothes from Aerin fit because I had gained about 80 pounds (seriously) of fertility weight before I got pregnant with her and I lost almost all of it since she was born. So I now have a grand total of 4 outfits to wear and 2 of them are shul outfits that are too hot to wear during a Richmond July (our shul is very cold). I am now getting headaches, which I got with Aerin, too.
My cerclage is tomorrow. I'm not nervous about getting it, but I'm nervous about having it in as I get closer to when I went into labor with Aerin. The idea of tearing the cerclage and bleeding to death freaks me out. I know it's almost certainly not going to happen, but I wish Dr. Christmas hadn't mentioned it.
On a brighter note, I think Dr. Christmas finally understands me. He brought up reduction at our last appointment and was very nice when I firmly cut him off. It finally dawned on him when I turned down genetic testing and he said, "You wouldn't terminate a pregnancy for any reason." He said it in a very approving and kind tone, which I appreciated. BTW, we did have pre-conception genetic counseling before Aerin because Andrew is 100% genetically Jewish and I'm 50% genetically Jewish. There are many Jewish genetic diseases. Happily, neither of us is a carrier for any of them.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
((Mrs M))
I now have a bump! (And I am 5 months along....)
Luckily it's winter, so all my bulky clothes still fit. When it gets a bit warmer I think I'm going to have to lash out and buy some maternity outfits.
So far I've only gained a kilo or two which I'm pretty happy about, as I was overweight to begin with. And baby is growing well, and I'm eating well.
We decided against the nuchal fold test for much the same reason as you - we wouldn't terminate anyway, so it seemed unnecessary. I think we're pretty clear for genetic diseases, the exception of a slight possibility of haemophilia (theoretically possible, but in all probability I am not a carrier). I have to ask the midwives if we can test for it with the heel blood or cord blood though, given it is a boyo.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I did all the tests, not because I would terminate, but because I think knowing potential problems sooner would help me deal with them. In my current circumstances, I could not handle a disabled child (I can barely handle a healthy one) so I would need some time to get to a place where I could handle it. For example, I might try to move to where I have family so I have a better support network.
imogen- can they test and see if you are a carrier?
Mrs. M- hope the cerclage goes well!!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm not a carrier for anything, either.
I do all non-invasive tests. I don't have a problem with a blood screen; if that turns up positive, I don't have a problem with a 4D u/s and other non-invasive testing to try to detect what's wrong. I wouldn't get invasive testing of any kind, because why go through that when I'm not going to terminate anyway? The 4D has a very good rate of detection (especially 'cause my doc would send me to, seriously, the world's expert on it) and I'm okay with knowing there's a problem but only narrowing it down to two or three possibilities if there's a problem. I do want to have warning-- but I don't want anything invasive. Does that make sense?
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I'm home. Everything went well. I had a spinal epidural. We had some weird complications - my right side didn't go numb, but my left side did. He ended up giving me a pretty heavy dose and I didn't feel a thing. I did get a serious case of the giggles, which cracked everyone up. It took me a long time to get the feeling back in my legs.
The babies are so big and adorable. B is on top of A. B was moving like crazy and A was chilling out until they moved the probe-y thing (I forget what it's called). Then he or she kind of woke up and moved a lot, too.
Also, my cervix didn't funnel, which is awesome! We were all expecting it to funnel to the cerclage, but it didn't. It still could, which would be fine, but it's good that it didn't right away.
So sleepy.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Yay! Glad everything is going so well, Mrs M.
Scholarette - I did look into it before we got pregnant, but it is quite complicated and expensive and depending on the type of haemophilia that is in my family, could be non-conclusive anyway. I would need to get my second cousin (who has haemophilia) to have a pretty extensive gene test to determine what type he has. Then, if he had 1 of 3 types we could test me to see if I am a carrier. If he has one of the other 2 types, there's no test (performed in Australia at least) that could show whether I was a carrier or not.
Looking at the family tree, and the number of boys born, it's fairly clear that the condition was probably a spontaneous mutation on my maternal grandmother's sister's side - ie, my grandmother and great-grandmother aren't carriers. So I'm not that worried.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I'm glad the cerclage went well!! I'm sorry you're having to wear maternity clothes already! Hopefully you'll be able to add to those 4 outfits so you don't hate them or wear them out before the twins get here!
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Thanks, y'all.
Today was somewhat unpleasant. I'm in a fair amount of pain. I won't take pain pills while I'm pregnant, so it's pretty uncomfortable. I'm not opposed to pain meds during pregnancy in general, but I have so many risk factors that I can't do anything about that I figure why add any, however small.
This is well-known to both Andrew and Dr. Davis. When she was giving me my instructions, she said, "I know you're not going to use this, but I'm giving your a prescription for pain meds." When she told Andrew on the phone, the first thing he told her is that I won't take them.
This has nothing to do with anything, but one of the first things I'm going to do after I have the twins is eat a peanut butter and jelly sandwich with a big cup of coffee. Then I'm going out for sushi.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I've been having decaf and not noticing the difference, so no coffee cravings.
But I already have the smoked salmon and soft cheese ordered for after delivery. Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
I'm not a big coffee drinker, or any caffeine really, but I had REALLY been wanting a cup of coffee... I asked the doctor (maybe they laughed at me after, oh well! ; ) ) and he said - Drink it.
Like I said, though, I'm not a big coffee drinker so it was just an off cup of coffee...
I've got another question for ya, too... How about this whole sleeping on your left side thing? When I asked the doctor about it, he said the most important thing is actually GETTING sleep so don't stress out about being on the left side... Anyone have any input on that?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
My doc says any which way that's comfy is fine until the 4th or 5th month or so, then either side is best (but sleep how you can.) I know I definitely would feel it if I was sleeping on my back after that, so I wasn't comfortable like that. But that's just me.
My doctor also doesn't give a list of "forbidden foods"; he just says, "Use common sense about food safety." So I've never been forbidden to eat lunch meat, soft cheese, etc. like some women I know have. (Which is good since I ate both those foods through all my pregnancies...)
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
It's best to sleep on your left side while pregnant because it increases blood flow to the baby. I slept on my left side so much when I was pregnant with Aerin that I now sleep that way instinctively. I spent almost my entire month of bedrest on my left side - they only let me switch to the right when it got too painful.
As to painkillers and certain foods - it's not that I don't believe in them for all pregnant women, I just won't take them myself. I have so many risk factors that I can't control that I don't want to add any, no matter how miniscule. I'm only avoiding peanuts because Andrew has a blood relation with a peanut allergy. If he didn't, I'd be downing it.
We'll be having bagels and lox at the bris(es) and/or namings and I'm looking forward to that, too. Mmmmmm.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
How are y'all doing?
I'm at 14 weeks, which is kind of a milestone for me. At this point in my last pregnancy, I'd already had 2 miscarriages, 2 UTIs, 3 instances of idiomatic bleeding, and 2 ER trips. None of which I've had this pregnancy. I have another ultrasound on Wed.
I also got a fantastic deal on the exact stroller I wanted. I went into the store to "test drive" it, because I had just picked it out on Amazon. It handled well and the car seats went in and out easily. The floor model was on sale for $140 and it was in perfect condition. I saved $260! Whoo hoo!
In less pleasant news, a nice lady on the checkout line let me go ahead of her, saying, "It won't be long now." Y'all should have seen her face when I told her my due date (I told her the twin due date, which is December 31st, but still...). When I told her it was twins, she gave me a look of pity and told me to get all the rest I can now.
The babies like medium cheddar cheese. I hardly ever eat cheddar at all, and only mild when I do. Of course, it doesn't agree with me, because dairy makes me ill when I'm pregnant.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Poor thing. I hate when the baby makes you eat something that makes you sick (or gives you terrible heartburn, or...)
What stroller did you get?
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Yay Mrs M! I am so glad things are going better for you this time around.
I'm past 24 weeks, which is a wonderful feeling. My bump has been growing well, and the kicks are getting stronger and stronger - to the point of discomfort at times.
We also have our stroller and have had fun changing the seat (we have a bassinet and a regular stroller seat) and collapsing it up and down. The cot is bought, but not delivered yet. We've had Tony's parents visiting last weekend, and they were very happy to see all was going well. My mother in law has made the most beautiful baby quilt, and some gorgeous little embroidered singlets. Lucky baby. Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
That's GREAT that things are going well, Mrs.M!!! I can sort of understand how you feel about how big you are... My Uncle and his partner Laurie are having twins. The 'official' due date is 11/9 but it looks like they'll do a c-section on 10-15. My 'official' due date is 11/25, even though the doc says it's really more like the 20th but because it's not a 10 day difference, they'll just keep it. (it was 11/19 based on my lmp date, changed at the first u/s and at both of the other ultrasounds they said they shouldn't have changed it.) Laurie and I were together last week for a mini-reunion type family gathering in ME... She's HUGE. Like - really could be double what I am.
We've got a 5 year old (my cousin, her niece) in the family. She kept rubbing bellies and saying 'I think you're going to be a Mommy soon' (which is adorable) and also kept kindly pointing out that Laurie is 'much fatter' than I am. ; )
NICE WORK on scoring the stroller at a deal...
imogen - I can relate to the sometimes uncomfortable kicking... To me, the uncomfortable ones are the really low ones. They make me want to tell her to stay the heck away from there for next few months. It's a strange, not so nice feeling PLUS my brain just thinks - don't kick there, little girl!!! ; ) Two other sort of cool things are that you can SEE her movements at times now, which is just plain bizarre! Also cool is that by rubbing my belly, you can stimulate her and get her going really good... She's a little ball of energy in there! : ) Glad to hear things are going well for you!
Things are good with me - nothing to complain about except some sciatica. Very strange - sometimes it's nothing, sometimes it's like I have a paralyzed right leg. Not cool, but as it's the worst thing I'm dealing with right now - I deal with it with minimal complaint!!!
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I am always so happy to hear that everyone's babies are growing well and mommies are surviving. Hope it all keeps going well!!! Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Cmc - yes, the low ones are the worst. Plus they often seem to increase pressure on my bladder. And that does *not* need any help at this stage!
I haven't seen any movements yet, but I'm sure it will happen.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Y'all, the groin kicking is the worst. That was Aerin's favorite place to kick me. I'm not looking forward to a double dose, though I'm hoping there won't be enough room for them to double-team me. It gets so uncomfortable that you feel like you're going nuts and you start saying things to the baby like, "Cut that out! I know you can hear me!"
imogen, is a cot the same thing as a crib here in the States? I love handmade baby quilts, but I ended up having to buy mine at Pottery Barn. No quilters in my family.
cmc, how exciting that you can see the movement from the outside! Try shining a flashlight on your belly. They go nuts - it's so funny.
I actually had my ultrasound today. Good thing I checked my calender last night. Stupid pregnant brain. The babies are great. A is 3 ounces and hanging out directly above my cervix. B is 4 ounces and is to the left and on top of A. They were both moving, but A is definitely the hyper one. Their sacs are so big - no wonder I'm popping out. To my huge surprise, my cervix did not funnel. At all! I was sure it had. Dr. Christmas said that he's even happier with the cerclage than he was at the surgery. My next u/s is in 2 weeks and I'm hoping we can find out the sexes then.
kq, I got the Graco Quattro Tour. Since we're using the Graco car seats/carriers, it's the easiest for now. Aerin's first stroller was so heavy that I'm pretty much used to it. We're definitely going to switch to a lightweight side-by-side when they outgrow the car seats. Everyone I know who has a Maclaren loves it, but I haven't been able to find a snack tray that will attatch. I need a snack tray.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I hear people with big cars like the QTD. I adore adore adore my Maclaren, but if you prefer a sbs with trays, you might consider the Peg Perego Aria 60/40. It not only has trays, it accepts carseats! In fact, it accepts all car seats, because it has a strap to securely hold seats that aren't the brand of the stroller.
Now, um, I don't want to rain on your parade-- but are you aware that SnugRides don't usually fit smaller babies very safely? If you'd like I'd be happy to provide a list of infant seats in a wide range of prices that are rated for smaller babies and have special features to fit preemies and low-birthweight babies better and more safely.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
The Graco fit into our Forester and we're trading it in for a Volvo wagon, so trunk space hopefully won't be an issue. I'm actually bringing both the Graco and Aerin's Peg to the dealership, plus all 3 car seats to make sure everything fits. They'll love me.
The Aria is kind of low to the ground and I've heard they don't hold up to the rigors of 2 kids. I'm going to hold out hope that Maclaren realizes that a lot of moms need snack trays. Or that some company realizes that there's a market for a snack tray that fits Maclarens.
The SnugRide was approved by my NICU doctors, nurses, and the physical therapist there (not hyperbole - they actually all inspected it). The firemen who installed it said it was okay, too. Anyhow, we're getting either the SafeSeat or car beds, depending on how the babies do.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Maclaren, from what I've heard, has no plans for trays any time soon... There are other brands that have bars as well that get good reviews. (I think Chicco has one? Not sure...)
The SafeSeat is definitely not great for preemies. Not that it wouldn't be SAFE if the babies pass the challenge, the straps are at or below their shoulders, and they weigh at least 5 lbs. at discharge (the minimum weight it's approved to.) But that there are others that would be safER. Just a thought. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Okay, checked a thread that had recs for a similar situation for sbs that would accept carseats. The Zooper Tango Duo is one that was rec'd, as well as the Peg I mentioned (apparently the new 60/40 is getting MUCH better reviews than the old Pegs.) The other rec was not to bother with anything but a Maclaren and a Snap 'N Go (they come in double) for while the kids are still too small for the Mac.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
kq - I just realized that the issue is moot. Our NICU doesn't discharge babies until they're above what would be considered low birth weight. Especially since they don't allow anything that doesn't come attatched to the car seat (rolled blankets, etc.). I couldn't wrap my mind around why all the docs and nurses and therapists would let me put Aerin in an unsafe carseat. All the blood in my brain is clearly draining to the babies.
Also, I'm leaking colostrum already.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
oooh, I hated that! My t-shirts all got stained.
And that makes sense. One thing with the SS1s, though, is that they have higher top slots than some. So you might want to look into that before buying... Also, many babies are much happier once they hit 8 or 9 months (in your case, adjusted) in a convertible sitting more upright so they can see out better; the SS1 can't adjust at all. Just something to think about.
The rolled blankets aren't usually considered a hazard, actually, it's the head supports that are made by a different brand that are more of a hazard!
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Mrs M - me too! I started at about 14 or 15 weeks as well. Still going strong.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
I'm back from a long vacation and so happy to hear that everyone's pregnancies are going well. Heartburn and all.
FWIW, the NICU approved the SnugRide for my preemie (released at 5 lbs 1 oz).
Of course, Nathaniel had outgrown it in length before 8 months, well before he would've outgrown it in weight. (Something I didn't consider when shopping.) So now he's in the big boy carseat.
Even though we didn't get a full year out of the SnugRide, I think it was worth it to have the carseat/infant carrier for the first few months (as opposed to going straight to the convertible we have now).
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
For a baby who was barely 5 lbs. when released, yeah, I'd not recommend a convertible from the start! For sure!
For my long-torsoed girl, it's been great (she's now on the third slots of her Radian-- at 3 months. Her torso is as long as many two year olds'.)
I strongly suggest that everyone gets your carseat approved by a CPST as well as hospital staff. The hospital staff usually only have basic training and may not be up to speed on correct fit in every case, even NICU staff (oh, the horror stories I've heard...)
There are, of course, exceptions. My hospital keeps 3 actual CPSTs on staff to check carseats going home (not the short course given to nurses, etc., but the full week-long CPST course certification.)
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
We've organised to hire a capsule for the first 6 months and then we'll buy a convertible car seat.
I think it will be good for safety, but I've also been told it's great for being able to take it out when the baby is asleep and not having to wake the baby.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Oh, and I took pictures of my bump . I'm really happy now it is a "Yes, I'm obviously pregnant" size.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Wait - you mean we have to strap the kid in?? ; )
What's the capsule?
Lookin' good, imogen! Here's Laurie and me - she's about two weeks ahead of me and she's got twins... I'm on the right... ; )
It's a safe and sound capsule - this one . One of the biggest and most popular brands here.
Love the bellies. I'm waiting for when my belly button turns inside out.... It's always been a really deep innie, and it still is in, but is much more shallow.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Safe and Sound is Britax in America, the UK, and France (Roemer in Germany and Britax/Roemer in Scandinavia.) Capsule is carrier carseat or "bucket carseat" (depending on where in the country you live.) Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, and my belly button didn't "pop" until my third pregnancy. It got shallower but never turned with my first two. It had to do with the way the baby was lying, I think.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
My belly button doesn't really seem close to popping out - but it's definitely 'popped out', if that makes any sense at all. I've got a serious innie so I sort of wonder if it'll actually ever really come all the way out, but it's definitely farther than it was. How do I know this? Because I had my belly button pierced and now it looks like I got a little brand tattoo of TWO dots above my belly button... Oh Well... ; )
Laurie's, on the other hand, had already popped out in mid-March the last time I saw her. She's also a really thin person, not sure if that plays into it at all...
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Mine never popped out with either pregnancy, but it did get stretched the second time. It was wider than usual and the skin inside was raw and oozing for a week or so. And it ITCHED. Oh, did it itch. Also felt like someone was stabbing me in the belly button with an ice pick for a few days.
kq, thanks for recommending the radians. We bought one for John just after Charles was born since it was a little crowded in the backseat with the Graco Stage 1 and 2 SafeSeats both there. We love it! The straps are so much easier to tighten, it has the slidy-things to keep them from scratching his neck, and the profile is so low and small it's like there isn't even a carseat there. We took it on the airplane on our Florida trip and it was easy to install & uninstall in the plane and the rental car. We'll definitely be buying the same for Charles when he gets too heavy to carry in the infant carrier seat.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
So glad you like them! They rear-face to a full 35 lbs. with the new manufacture date, so you will even get a few extra months RF for Charles. Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I love all the belly pictures!
My belly button didn't pop out either. It did stretch wider and got shallower, though I didn't have the ickiness that dkw did.
I'm excited for my radian too! I figure Beanie will be too tall for her Snugride sometime in the next month or two, so I ordered a radian. I can't wait to get it and see how cool it is. I'm glad to hear it has slidy things to protect her neck - I hate how the current one makes red marks on the sides of her neck.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Dude, Sunshine Kids should give me kickbacks. Or at least a discount on the next one I buy (I'm sure there will be more! )
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yeah they should!! Or make you their spokeswoman or something! Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
My best friend had a baby not two weeks ago, and I know they are going to be flying while little Andrew is still tiny. Does anyone have any recommendations about airplanes and small babies? I seem to remember ketchupqueen or rivka (or dkw?) mentioning a harness for the plane. Does anyone remember?
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I don't think the harness would work for a baby that can't sit up yet. We flew to Florida when Charles was 4 weeks old, and the best place I found for him was on my armrest. I had the window seat and I put him against the wall of the plane with his feet to the rear. I rested my foot on my carryon bag under the seat in front of me to raise my knee and folded my mayawrap sling to make a pillow for him. He was about halfway between on his back and facing me, it was really easy to nurse him in that position and when he fell asleep I just slip my foot out a little to lower his head and left him there. Hands free, secure baby.
Also, she should be sure to check with her airline -- with Northwest at least diaper bags don't count toward your carryon bags and strollers and carseats don't count for carryon or checked. We gate checked Charles' carseat and stroller frame and on the way home we gate-checked those plus an extra stoller because it turned out to be cheaper to buy a new double stroller than to rent one at Disney for 10 days. And the Disney doubles aren't infant-compatible anyway.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
The harness is ONLY for children 22 to 45 lbs. and forward-facing. And IMO, it's way too expensive, and it's only useful anyway if you have a carseat waiting at your destination. If you're bringing your carseat along, why bother spending $80 when you could just use your seat on the plane?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(It's called CARES if you want to google it.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Baby B'air is for infants, if you want to google that. But if they have an extra seat you should always put baby in his own carseat on the plane.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, and we have got to the point where we just buy an extra seat for even under twos. They will give you half price for the baby's seat of whatever you paid-- even if that price is not available any more. You call them and they have to give you a 50% discount over what YOU paid for the baby's seat.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Are you sure? I was told we had to pay full price for the kids to have their own seats. We got one for John anyway, since he's way too big to hold on a lap for 3 hours even though he's under two.
Edit: sure about the "have to" part, I mean. I'm not questioning whether or not you got that discount.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I know Southwest still give's a child's fare (though I don't know how much). Airlines lately have been eliminating every discount and "perk" that I would not be surprised if the other airlines cut the children's discounts.
Posted by Eaquae Legit (Member # 3063) on :
He'll be about 5 months when he flies, and I'm sure his mom and dad will be looking into all sorts of options, but the Baby B'air is the one I was thinking of. For when he gets a bit older. They live far from their families, so they'll be travelling frequently on holidays and stuff.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I was under the impression that it was a regulation or something.
Every airline I've checked lately still gives a "child's fare" for under twos. You do have to pay full price for two and above, but it's been that way for ages.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Northwest is the one that told me otherwise. Full fare if they have a seat, no matter how young.
Of course the flights we took were packed full and had long standby lists, so they had no incentive to give any sort of discount.
And at the Orlando airport they don't pre-board families with young children. They said that since so many families with kids fly there they'd be pre-boarding half the plane. It would have been nice to still pre-board the families who were either installing car seats or gate checking strollers, though. There were only 2 or 3 on our flight and instead we had to be in everybody's way while we folded the stroller and installed the carseat.
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
When I flew out of Orlando (northwest in 06) they did preload families with children.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
I just flew through SLC, Sea-Tac and Spokane with Southwest and Delta last weekend. They pre-boarded families with children 4-0 or 5-0.
I have no idea on the cost of children's seats. We have five, so we figured even with discounts, flying with the full circus would negate Christmas/New Year's this year, so I went alone instead.
(My first time away from my kids, where I didn't bring home another kid. Felt very weird.)
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
When we flew Alaska last month (Phx and Sea-Tac), they had pre-boarding, a diaper bag/stroller/carseat didn't count towards your carryon/checked allotment, and did not offer discounted seats for infants.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Southwest in Houston and Phx boarded children in between the As and Bs. Which was very difficult because with all the As boarding and the Bs lined up, my toddler freaked out and tried to run away. I really would have appreciated not having to deal with the crowds (the way things used to be). I was also annoyed because in order to be an A, you have to print your boarding pass out from home, but if you have a lap child, you can't use the internet sign in. Well, technically you can, but you have to fill out a bunch of stuff about a month prior so a bit of a pain.
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
I flew with James on Southwest in June, and I checked in online the night before to get the higher boarding priority. Then we stood in line at the airport to get the paperwork for James filled out. They printed me a new boarding pass, but kept my A boarding number.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
That's what I've done as well, hansenj.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Thanks for that tip. I just read the online info and it didn't mention doing that. Next time I fly, I definetely will do that!
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
At the latest Drs appt - everything is good! She's as big as she should be and still moves around a ton... Had the glucose test (the drink wasn't as horrible as i thought it was going to be) and I was an 89 - I guess you need to be below 130 so it's all good. I was pretty glad about that 'cause I def didn't want to have to be thinking TOO much about my food.
Hope everyone else is doing well, too!!! : )
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Yay! I have my glucose test tomorrow morning - not really looking forward to it. (It's been so long since I had to have a blood test - I've really enjoyed the break...)
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I hope the glucose test goes (went?) well, imogen! Third trimester already! Hooray.
Yay for good results, cmc!
I have an ultrasound today and we'll hopefully find out what we've got in there.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Mrs. M- how exciting! Let us know what the little ones are!
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
*spoiler alert*
Anyone who wants to know the gender of Mrs. M's babies and is her friend on facebook should check her status. Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
But what about those of us who aren't on facebook??
Posted by Stray (Member # 4056) on :
*fidgets impatiently* rrrrgh, I wanna know but I'm not on Facebook!
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
I'm sorry! I don't want to spoil her news! She updated her status on Facebook from a mobile phone. I'm sure she'll post here when she gets home.
Posted by Stray (Member # 4056) on :
Oh I know, I'm just bored at work and seeking distraction I totally understand, it's her news to share.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I'm full of girls! Aaaaaaaaaah! Well, I'm not getting my tubes tied now. D'oh!
My cervix funnelled a little, but not down to the stitch. Not even close, but it does make me a little nervous.
The Magnolias are facing each other, which is sweet. They're side-by-side now, which is probably better for my cervix.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Mrs. M, do you have other daughters, then?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
She has one daughter, Aerin.
Congratulations, Mrs.M! Three girls is such fun.
I'm picturing matchy outfits galore!
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Congrats!!! : )
I don't really understand what that means, the funneling part. I'm gathering that it has something to do with the length of the cervix (like how at my 25 wk appt he measured me at 26 cm?) but I can't find anything that explains it very well.
You call them Magnolias? Cute... We call Chloe (well, probably chloe anyway...) Pineapple...
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Congrats, Mrs. M!
Posted by Stray (Member # 4056) on :
Congrats to you all!
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Thanks, y'all.
Funneling is when the cervix opens from the inside (the part closest to the baby). That's probably the worst explanation ever, but I'm so tired. We called Aerin Ladybug when I was carrying her, so we wanted to continue the tradition of Southern womb nicknames.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
quote:Originally posted by cmc: Congrats!!! : )
I don't really understand what that means, the funneling part. I'm gathering that it has something to do with the length of the cervix (like how at my 25 wk appt he measured me at 26 cm?) but I can't find anything that explains it very well.
You call them Magnolias? Cute... We call Chloe (well, probably chloe anyway...) Pineapple...
26 cm is the height of the top of your uterus, not the length of your cervix. The cervix starting to funnel means it's starting to open, so it has to be watched closely if there's a risk of premature labor.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Duh, dkw. When you wrote that, it seemed like such a dumb thing I typed. Hey - I'm new at this, still gotta get the lingo down... ; )
Another potentially dumb question - when someone goes into actual labor, does the cervix open from the other end?
I'm thinking closed, unfunneling thoughts for you, Mrs. M...
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
I have three girls! It's a lot of fun. Hooray, Mrs. M!
When I was pregnant with Suki, we called her The Zeke. "How's Zeke today?"
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Mrs. M uses lots of lingo I don't know. But it sounds like this pregnancy is overall having less complications then the last, despite being twins.
Girls are the best!! I was so glad to have a girl because while I would rather have a mix, if I have all girls I'd be happier then all boys.
I call my friend's baby Eustace because she thinks that is the worst name possible for a baby. She said it could be the in utero name though.
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
quote:when someone goes into actual labor, does the cervix open from the other end?
Yes, that's the part of your body that dilates to 10 cm during labor. It also thins out prior to and during labor, and that's called effacement.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Got it... but is does it open from one specific side (closer to the baby or farther away from the baby) when all that goes on?
I'd not ever even thought about it until Mrs.M mentioned that with funneling it's the side closer to the baby...
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
That was a really good video. Slightly frightening, but good.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
I think I actually felt contractions while I watched that video. It was very intense.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Here we go again.
My OB called last night. After talking to Dr. Christmas (my perinatologist), they've decided that if my cervix funnels more in the next 2 weeks, I'll have to go on bedrest. I'm praying for home bedrest and I'm optimistic about my chances. My mother has her suitcase packed and she'll be coming up to take care of me. I'll be able to go to Aerin's first day of school, but I'll probably miss her birthday party. I'm pretty bummed.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
I'm in the better safe than sorry camp right about now, but I'm still thinking those non-funneling thoughts for you right now!!! : )
BOOOOOO to missing birthday parties.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I'm sorry Mrs M. I hope that your cervix stays put where it is and bed rest doesn't have to eventuate.
(And congratulations on your girls! )
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay for the baby girls!! I hope your cervix will stop funneling and you will not need to go on bedrest (and miss Aerin's party)!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Thoughts and prayers for a tough cervix here, at least until the birthday party!!!
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Ditto here. Put your feet up and drink something cold.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Thanks, y'all. We had kind of a scare on Friday, but the babies are fine and I'm fine.
Friday morning I started to feel really crummy during my shower. I had some pelvic pressure and back pain and stomach upset. These are common with twin pregnancies, but they can also be signs of preterm labor. So I put my feet up and drank a glass of water. Didn't help. There was no bleeding or discharge, so I knew I had some time. I cancelled my knitting circle and packed a bag, in case I had to stay in the hospital. I got Aerin in the car and drove to my OB's office (which is in the hospital). They all assured me that I was right to come in. There were no contractions and my cervix was so closed and long that it looked like I never had a baby at all (to paraphrase the doctor).
Since then I've felt okay, except for a lot of round ligament pain and belly itching. I can feel my uterus stretching out and I swear you can almost see my belly expaning every which way. I feel like an elephant.
Richmonders are extremely nice and very family-oriented, so I get many, many comments from people who mean well. The lady at the checkout today said I was brave to be shopping so close to my due date. It's getting harder to laugh about this as I get more and more uncomfortable.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Poor thing! I'm never sure what's worse, to get comments that assume you're further along, or to get no comments...
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
(((Mrs M))) I'm glad it was just a scare and nothing worse.
I'm starting to get odd pelvic pains that extend down my legs - I think it's just things stretching and loosening. Uncomfortable though.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Uggg, imogen, I hate that. After a while my legs (especially teh left) would actually go numb, then hurt like crazy when I moved. Silly baby lying on my nerves...
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
imogen, I had sciatica REALLY bad for a while. It's still there, but not nearly as bad as it was before. I guess she's shifted her most comfortable spot or something. Mine was on the right side and sometimes it was almost like I couldn't move the leg and when I did, it felt like it was going to fall off it hurt so badly. The doc had me do some stretching stuff with mostly my hips and a little bit of my leg and that seemed to help a bit... Basically just taking my ankle and putting it up on the opposite knee and trying to get the knee as far down as I could. Also just sitting like that and sort of bringing my shoulders forward helped, too.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Glad to know I'm normal.
I'll try some stretching.
I told my Mum (the GP) who helpfully told me that she never had anything like that with any of her pregnancies. Thanks Mum. Though really, I've felt so well so far, I've nothing to complain about.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by imogen: I told my Mum (the GP) who helpfully told me that she never had anything like that with any of her pregnancies. Thanks Mum.
I had the same conversation with my mother (who's a doctor, but not the kind that helps people ) about morning sickness. Yeah, no so helpful.
For me, the best stretch for sciatica was the wheelbarrow. (Hey, I have that book!)
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
When I told my mother that I could feel the babies, she said I couldn't be feeling them because she didn't feel me move until 5 months. She also helpfully informed me that she had no round ligament or back pain. BTW, she's 5 inches taller than me and had 1 child.
I had an ultrasound yesterday. My cervix is totally closed - no funneling whatsoever! The babies are great. They're each 9 ounces. Baby A moved back to the low center of my womb, right above my cervix. Very uncomfortable. I'm on half-day bedrest - half the day lying flat, half the day doing normal activities within reason. Since I was pretty much doing that anyway, it's not a hardship.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Yeah!!!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yay for closed cervices!
I am lucky to have a mother who may say "I never had that" but follows it with "it sounds awful." Or something like that, so I know she knows it's real!
And, I've heard you often feel twins earlier, just because there's double the chances to feel it! I felt Emma at 14 weeks.
Posted by lobo (Member # 1761) on :
I get that Magnolia is a southern tree and hence nickname, but I don't get the connection with ladybugs... they aren't especially southern are they?
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Yay for Babies A and B and for Mrs M.
I saw your photo on facebook Mrs M - I see what you mean about showing early. You have my sympathy.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: I am lucky to have a mother who may say "I never had that" but follows it with "it sounds awful."
Oh, mine said that. I certainly never thought she thought I was making anything up.
It is very common to feel baby movement earlier in later pregnancies -- you know what it feels like, and recognize it for what it is. I felt movement with #3 at 12 weeks (and we confirmed that I really was with the little ultrasound machine my doctor's office had).
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I don't think my mother thinks I'm making it up - it's just not entirely helpful. (Especially when I'm sort of asking what could be causing the pain.)
I felt this baby at 17 weeks, I think. It's funny, comparing the kicks (thumps) now to those first little movements.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by imogen: I don't think my mother thinks I'm making it up - it's just not entirely helpful. (Especially when I'm sort of asking what could be causing the pain.)
Exactly!
How's the sciatica?
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Not too bad. It's fairly intermittent - most of time I'm fine, but occasionally (especially when I have been sitting or lying in a particular way for a reasonable length of time) it's quite painful.
But brief.
I'm belatedly celebrating my normal glucose test with a donut for breakfast. (Glazed baby!)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
See, that's the other good thing about my mom; being an RN and OTR, she usually either fixes it for me (apparently some PT and OT training overlaps) or gives me helpful advice on how to deal with it.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
imogen... I celebrated with a whole mess of Twizzlers. And I loved it. ; )
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I had milk & cookies.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I'm on bedrest.
I had an ultraound today. I'm funneled enough that they want me flat and inactive. Fortunately, I haven't funneled down to the cerclage and I'm not having contractions, which is good. My mother is coming a week from Thursday and we've got things covered until then. I do have permission to go to Aerin's birthday party this Sunday, but that will be my last public appearance (in the words of my perinatologist).
The babies are fantastic. They are extremely active, just like their big sister was.
I'm bummed out, but at least I'm not in the hospital.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, man, no fun. Glad that there's no contractions, and no problems with the babies, though!
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
(((Mrs M)))
I'm glad the babies are doing so well.
I'm at 31 weeks tomorrow. My entire family is now having baby dreams. (It's contagious!)
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Mrs. M- how far along are you?
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
I'm still three days behind, imogen... ; ) How are you feeling?
Mrs M - at least you're making it through the party, but still a bummer...
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Pretty good, cmc. Some little niggles, but overall ok. You?
Edit - Oh, I meant to tell you, I've been getting 'small bump' comments. They really started over the last couple of weeks or so. The midwife says I'm measuring right on target though, so I'm not too concerned. Just happy a lot of my normal (though admittedly loose fitting) clothes still fit.
I think you're going to beat me to actual baby though. Just a feeling.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I was that way with my first pregnancy, imogen-- I was able to wear a lot of my elastic-waist skirts and looser, larger t-shirts through the whole pregnancy, I had almost no maternity clothes.
With my second, I was in maternity clothes by 4 months, despite having started out weighing LESS than I did before my first (once you counted in chest size.)
With my third, where I had put on some weight compared to then, I was in maternity clothes at about 6 weeks, at least for pants/bottoms. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
The things I have to look forward to next time, huh? (Not that I'm planning that to happen anytime soon!).
Though I was in a maternity bra from about 10 weeks. And I am going to have to go buy some more pretty soon, and get remeasured.
(I really didn't need that part of me to grow... *grumble*)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah. I ended up in sports bras because they were cheaper and I grew so fast my first pregnancy. Once the baby came I invested in some nursing bras.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Feeling pretty good! This baby still moves around a ton, and she's running out of room so her movement is getting a little more uncomfortable. Instead of just being on one side, now when she decides to go on a kicking spree, her head is knocking my bladder, and elbow is in my side and her feet are killing the top of my belly. Oh well, right... ; )
She got hiccups for the first time (that I noticed) yesterday... It was pretty cute. I watch my cousins after school and sometimes for somethings on weekends... The 7 year old and I hung out pretty much all afternoon (oh, the joys of chuck e cheese birthday parties...) while his older brothers were at football and he thought the hiccups were the coolest thing...
I officially know what the Braxton-Hicks contractions feel like and I really have to say that sometimes they HURT.
That's about all I've got for now - next appt is on Saturday and then starts every two weeks... imogen - it's funny you said that about beating you to the actual baby. I have a feeling she's going to come early. I don't know why - I just do. (watch, i'll have to be induced at 42 weeks or something...) I had a dream she came on the 6th of November... Let's see what happens!! ; )
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oooh, BH are no fun.
What's annoying to me is, the contractions that actually dilate me the first 4 cm or so do not hurt as much as the Braxton Hicks I've usually been having for at least 3 months (or more) by that time. :\
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Yeah, same here. I've had preterm labor with three babies, preterm deliveries for two. With the most recent baby, I was walking around at a five for like a week; turns out the baby didn't fall out only because he had decided to jam himself in sideways and would agree to exit the premises only via excruciating back labor.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I see either my OB or my perinatologist every week and I think they'll probably start each wanting to see me every week soon. I'm so uncomfortable from both the pregnancy and from lying down all day. I wish these kids would chill out - it's weird and uncomfortable how active they both are at the same time. It's nothing like a singleton pregnancy, so I don't know what to expect. I'm starting to have a hard time eating because they're so high now and I'm worried about their growth.
My mother is coming Thursday, thank goodness. That will be a huge help. I also got to go to Aerin's birthday party, btw and it was awesome.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I saw my OB today and I'm at the same place. The bad news is that I'm going to have to go into the hospital at 24-25 weeks (I'm 21.5 weeks now). It's precautionary - they want the babies to be born under the best conditions and we have no idea when they'll come.
Andrew is taking it much harder than I am. I'm primarily worried about how it will affect Aerin.
Boy am I never doing this again.
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Thinking of you.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I'm sorry Mrs M.
My best thoughts are with you, your babies, and your family.
Aerin will be able to visit you in hospital, I presume?
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Aw Mrs.M that really stinks...
I'm definitely thinking of you... Not sure what I could possibly do, but if there's anything I CAN do, just let me know.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, my, Mrs. M, that would be so hard.
I'm with cmc, if there's anything I can do (other than keep you and the babies and Aerin and Andrew in my prayers, which I already do), let me know! I'm always open to an e-mail, even to vent, I would be happy to send cards or letters for you to read. If you e-mail me to let me know what your hospital address is, I can send it there, or I'll send it to your home address (do I have your new address? I'm not quite sure) and I'm sure it will be brought to you, right?
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Thanks, y'all. Andrew or my mother will bring Aerin to see me every day. I'm getting used to the idea, but still kind of not.
Letters and cards are always very welcome. It is definitely better to send them to the house - the hospital is not super reliable with mail delivery (it's my only complaint with them)
I have my perinatal appt. this week, so we'll see where we stand. Only 2 more weeks until viability, which will make me feel a lot better.
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
It sounds like you do have good support at home, which makes it easier, though long bed rest is never really easy.
Prayers here too for you, Mrs. M.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Mrs.M - if you want to email me your address, I'll send cards... : )
Appointment on Saturday went well! The kid is still growing, still tries to kick the doctor every time he puts the heart monitor on her and is head down (the doc supposes she'll stay that way for the duration). It was pretty cool - he showed me how to feel her head while I was in there... Now that I know she's looking more human - it's a little strange/cool to think about her in there. Every now and then I'll have one of those moments like - Holy Crap... This creature inside of me is going to be as big as, if not bigger than, me someday. It's crazy.
We've got an ultrasound on the 10th. I'm not 100% sure why, but my old doc guessed that this guy'd do one (just to 'see for himself'). So - that'll be sort of cool to see her all big and stuff... ; )
That's about all I've got for now...
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I wish I got another ultrasound...
What I'm finding odd is how instead of just jabs and kicks, the movements are now unmistakably baby limbs - I can feel an arm, or a shoulder, or a little bum...
Drives home that there is a real little person in there! I cannot wait to meet him. (7 1/2 more weeks...)
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Holy Strange Dreams, Batman!!! I mean, they've been weird all along - but they're getting more vivid AND strange. The newest 'theme' is that I'll be looking down at her moving, my stomach will become transparent and then she'll come out my stomach. Just that easy... Somehow I'm pretty sure that's wishful dreaming right there... ; ) I also had a dream that I got into a physical fight with someone - and I woke up totally bothered by it. Also - friends from the past have been popping up a lot in the past week... People from high school or camps that I've just fallen out of contact with for whatever reason... wonder why that is... Anyway - just commenting! : )
Had the first 'Preparation for Childbirth' class last night... I really like the woman who's running it. She's got a great attitude... I'm pretty much really laid back about this whole thing. I'm not nervous or anxious about delivery at all. We also have a pretty simple 'birth plan'... I'd like to do it without drugs, but make sure you tell me before it's too late to take them! And, well, that's about it. I guess my mindset is that I'm going to be doing this for the first time... The doctor and nurse that'll be with me have been doing this for years... I trust them... I guess it helps, too, that my Aunt had her 3 boys with this guy and he was a superstar in her eyes...
Alright. I think I'm starting to ramble. Just felt like popping in... How's everyone else doing??? Is it just imogen and Mrs.M?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, man, I miss pregnant dreams. I rarely remember my dreams when I'm not pregnant and the pregnant dreams are SO entertaining (well, the ones that aren't terrifying!)
I had a dream my first pregnancy that I was stalking a kid I hadn't seen from high school and forcing him to make out with me! I really want to know what caused THOSE synapses to fire-- it was a kid I'd never even had a crush on, or thought was cute, and had not seen at all in four or five years.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I think we may be the only 3. We're the tail end of the baby boom.
I had a dream a little while back that the baby came out - we saw him, talked to him, played to him, then put him back. The whole thing was completely painless and gore-free. Like you, I suspect a little wishful dreaming at work. No stalking dreams though.
We're halfway through our classes. So far we've done breastfeeding and childbirth part I. Tomorrow is childbirth part II (what can go wrong....) and the last class is baby care. They're all run through the birth centre, by the midwifes and have been pretty good. For the last class, a couple will come in who have had a baby at the birth centre in the last few weeks to show us the baby (baby! ) and talk about life with a newborn.
I'm pretty relaxed too. No birth plan as such, but because we've chosen the birth centre drugs are mostly not an option, unless I want to transfer to the main hospital. They can give me gas, but they discourage any drugs in labour, and I'm very keen not to use any either. I am looking forward to using the very big and very luxurious baths. Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
She is CUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUte... She doesn't even look a little bit like an alien anymore - she officially looks like a baby. Saw her elbows and her knees and her kidneys and her stomach and her bladder and her brain... and all sorts of stuff!!! She's about 4 lbs 10 oz right now with about 6 and a half weeks to go, if she comes on her due date. She even has hair!!! The tech commented on how active she is - is that like a generic comment or is she really active, I wonder...? Anyway, everything's good - enough fluid, she's practicing her breathing and I LOVE HER!!!!!! : )
Next appt is next Thursday, when he'll check out my body to see what if it's doing anything to get ready for this little girl to come out into the world. He'll also go over all the info from todays u/s, too...
Wait - gas like the kind that knocks you out gas? They can do that? (clearly haven't gotten to the 'drugs' part of the class yet...)
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
No, gas like nitrous oxide. I don't think it's used much here for L&D; imogen is in Oz.
Edit: Link Posted by sarcasticmuppet (Member # 5035) on :
I had a friend who delivered a baby in England who said it's pretty common there. She didn't like it because she couldn't measure her breathing as well (both of her kids were natural births)
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
It seems to be common in the UK and Australia and uncommon in the U.S. Not sure about other places.
. . . and if having a baby with a shot of narcotics is not a "natural birth", neither is having one while taking hits of nitrous. The usual usage of the term means no drugs.
Posted by sarcasticmuppet (Member # 5035) on :
She took it for a total of maybe three minutes, decided she didn't like it, and stopped (this was her second baby, after developing sort of her own system for dealing with pain after her natural first birth, which the nitrous was messing up). Not that I don't agree with your definition, I was unclear.
[ October 10, 2008, 05:38 PM: Message edited by: sarcasticmuppet ]
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
The reason they like the gas at the birth centre is it does clear the system pretty quickly - so if you don't like it, it's gone after a few good breaths of oxygen.
Obviously harder to reverse the effects of a pethedine shot (or an epidural) so fast.
We had the pain relief birth class this week. The gas does require a lot of huffing and puffing - I didn't really like the look of it.
We also saw the delivery suite at the hospital so if I do have to be transferred, it's familiar.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I wish gas was an option here. They had a lot of trouble getting in my epidural last time; he said it might have to do with scarring, or tenseness, or both, so... I don't know. I was so traumatized by my last experience having a baby I want another one but I think I'm going to be scared of everything next time around, which is sad, because the birth itself was fine; it was just the aftermath.
My husband and I were debating the effects of inducing before the due date, as we did, vs. waiting until probably past term. On the one hand, my response gets worse with each kid, it seems, so might leaving them in to "bake" longer result in higher levels of the antibodies that cause the jaundice in their systems? On the other hand, might their livers be more mature with a few extra weeks? This was our smallest kid yet (she was actually in longer than Bridey, but Bridey is just huge, 95th %tile in height) I don't really know how much difference a few weeks would make in either liver development or in my immune response. I don't regret going in when I did; something was definitely starting to happen, though I hadn't had protein in my urine my bp was high and remained so for a week or two after the birth, and I had swelling that persisted for two weeks after she was born (I actually GAINED weight the first few days after she was born, most of it swelling.) Plus the pubis symphasis dysfunction, ouch, which took a week to clear up. Something was going south with me and she was born perfectly healthy, except for the jaundice which would have happened anyway. But I do wonder about the effect on the next one, since my immune response is getting worse each time, apparently.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
There are options besides an epidural here. Shots of narcotics are also an option, and one I have found made a huge difference, without the invasiveness of an epidural.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I can't have narcotics. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Also, I like the idea that it clears so quickly if you don't like it.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I had a bad experience with nitrous oxide as a child and I will never allow it to be given to me again.
Which has annoyed a couple of dentists, including the one who pulled my wisdom teeth, but too bad for them.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Wisdom teeth while conscious wasn't bad at all. Interesting, even.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I have never had nitrous, but I am guessing I might not react well. My mom doesn't.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Did it clear quickly, though? Or were the bad effects long lasting?
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Sorry I've been MIA lately. Bedrest is not exactly agreeing with me. The good news is that today is Viability Day! I'm 24 weeks along. The babies have a chance if they're born now. Not a good chance, but a chance nonetheless. When I was this pregnant with Aerin, I'd already been in the hospital for 2 weeks.
The babies are doing great. As of a week-and-a-half ago, they're each 1 pound, 1 ounce. It's unusual for fraternal twins to be the exact same weight, but they're both nice and big for their age. While it's still kind of hard to tell who is kicking me where, I think Baby B is the one kicking me above the bellybutton and Baby A is the one kicking me in the groin. I really dislike it when they do flips - it gives me a weird, queasy feeling. I'm almost looking forward to the time when they get too big for somersaults.
It turns out that I will not have to go to the hospital for the duration (unless something changes). I'll only have to go for 48 hours when I get my steriod shots (to mature the babies' lungs).
quote:I think I'm going to be scared of everything next time around, which is sad, because the birth itself was fine; it was just the aftermath.
You'll manage just fine - I know it. Eventually the aftermath fades into a blur. That's what happened with me and with almost all of the other NICU moms I know. It helps to explore your options and get in front of the problem if at all possible.
The twins will definitely be in the hospital for a while. We're hoping they can go right to the PCN and we're optimistic they won't be in as long as Aerin. I've already figured out my schedule with visiting them and taking care of Aerin and I can use that time to prepare the house and their room. It's weird - I'm totally calm about the birth and their hospital stay, it's having them home that's freaking me out. Having a special needs 3-year-old and newborn twins (whom I plan on nursing) is daunting.
Twin hormones do not improve my disposition. I've had to stop watching TLC-type baby shows because they give me blinding rages. The two worst offenders are a woman who was riding her bike while 8.5 months along and a woman who was rollerblading down a hill, without a helmet, while pushing her toddler in a stroller at 8.5 months. It makes me so furious to see women endanger themselves and their babies (and the toddler) while I'm turning my entire family's lives upside down and enduring a lot of painful tests and treatments to give my babies a chance.
imogen and cmc - I'm so happy to hear that y'all are doing well! It's going to be weird when we all deliver. There won't be any more expectant mommas on Hatrack!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, I so get irritated at the TLC people. For me, it's the carseat usage. I do not think I have seen ONE baby using the carseat correctly on either Bringing Home Baby or A Baby Story in a LONG time. Between that and the amount of people who don't breastfeed because they aren't getting any support, I quit watching in frustration. And that's WITHOUT twin hormones, lol.
I don't know that I'll manage fine. I mean, I know I will, but I don't KNOW I will. I'm still dealing with depression and panic attacks as a result of being away from her. I'm going to definitely talk to my doctor about it next time, though, so he knows I'm having anxiety and can help me work it out. And hopefully I'll be expecting again by the time you all have your babies, don't want this thread to die!
I keep meaning to send you a package. Any presents that would make your life better? Like See's (they have kosher candies available) or books or anything? Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Yay for 24 weeks! That's a wonderful milestone.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Congrats, Mrs.M, on 24 weeks!!! Actually - seeing the date - it's almost 25!!! WOOHOOOO!!!!
Pineapple's u/s results are great - she got an 8/8 on her biophysical, which I guess is like a prebirth apgar... The doc said if she's born today, she'll be fine. She wouldn't need to go in to the NICU or anything... He said worst case scenario is that she'd be jaundiced... I don't WANT her to come today, but it's nice to know that if she decided to get all crazy in there things would be okay!!!
Other than that, just finishing up getting everything ready for her. Actually about to head out to have the car seats inspected and put in and all that stuff... YEAH!
edit to say... i've gained 54 lbs during this pregnancy. holy crap. that's a LOT. but - it's all boobs, belly and a little bit of butt. hopefully it goes right out the way it came!!!! ; )
[ October 16, 2008, 11:16 AM: Message edited by: cmc ]
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I'm sure it will.
I have no idea how much weight I've gained because I broke the scales a couple of months ago (NOT by standing on them....). But my trusty jeans are starting to become unwearable. Ah well, they made it to 8 months, almost (the reason I could wear them so long is they are super low rise, and were loose to start off with).
We had a talk in our birth class last night about how breastfeeding burns those calories.
And a new (6 week) baby and her parents came to visit and to talk (well, the parents did - the baby cried) about first time parenting. It was really interesting. And the baby was very cute.
I'm 35 weeks tomorrow, which is the date my midwife will deliver from - any earlier and I have to be transferred to the main hospital, due to funding. So as long as the baby doesn't come in the next 15 1/2 hours, I think we're safe.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I gained 55 lbs. with Bridey. I'm still carrying 10 of those lbs. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I am getting impatient. And it could be 6+ weeks off.
It's not that I'm sick of being pregnant so much, but I just want to meet my baby!
Hmmph.
Posted by Valentine014 (Member # 5981) on :
You guys are scaring me with all the weight gain talk. If I am going to gain so much, I better get my butt to the gym. I am hoping for a honeymoon baby (December), but am not willing to start trying at my current weight.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Val, I don't know how heavy you are, but "plus size moms" tend to gain less and even sometimes lose during their pregnancies (and still have perfectly healthy babies.)
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Well, if you're already concerned about your weight, chances are good that you'll gain less than average. I think women's bodies tend to do what is needed for the baby. With that in mind, I gain 45+ pounds each pregnancy, but I weigh under 110 when I'm not pregnant. I've always assumed that my body "knows" it needs to up my BMI for the safety of my baby and me, just in case of a famine or something. Then again, you should try not to be more careless about eating than usual just because you're pregnant. And again, some people just tend to gain weight if they look at food funny. I guess what I'm trying to say is that there's no guarantee that you'll be someone who gains weight fast; nor is there any guarantee that you won't.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I felt like I was starving my whole pregnacy. We called the baby the ravenous beast in utero. Meanwhile, my coworkers felt no desire to eat their entire pregnancy. I kinda felt left out when they were talking about how their husbands had to force them to eat at every meal. They also carried higher then I did. And my cousin who can't keep food down for the entire 9 months leaves the hospital in her prepregnancy pants.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Val, I was overweight going into my pregnancy (due to PCOS and my diet and um, complete lack of exercise). I actually lost about 4 kilos in the first few months (and not through morning sickness) and then didn't gain anything until about 5 months in.
I am sure that was my body's way of regulating my weight gain, given I didn't need to gain too much! I've also found pregnancy eating to be pretty healthy - apart from some fairly serious dairy cravings (milk, chocolate, milk, ice-cream, milk - I went through 9 litres one week) I'm eating, and wanting to eat, a lot of fresh fruit, veggies and lean meat. I think it also helps that alcohol and soft cheeses are off the menu.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I gained about 20 lbs with each pregnancy, and was back to pre-pregnancy weight a few weeks after delivery. This time I seem *fingers crossed* to still be slowly losing weight almost 4 months out. I'm sure the no-dairy thing is helping with that (cheese, how I miss thee!). Plus I'm tandem nursing, and that uses up a few calories.
Posted by Valentine014 (Member # 5981) on :
Tell me more about this cheese thing. Not all cheese is bad, right? Giving up all cheese would be very difficult for me, as that is the only source of calcium I have. I despise milk and calcium pills give me very painful stomach cramps and constipation.
Another question for those who have already gone through delivery: How many of you who didn't want an epidural (or other drug pain relief) change their mind due to pain being more than you thought it would be? While I haven't done my own research on the topic yet, my first instinct is to get an epidural if that is possible, but later researching my change my mind.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Cheese recommendations during pregnancy depend on where you live. The basic issue is listeria.
The Australian government recommends no soft cheeses (brie, camembert, goat's cheeses, fetta, blue etc), but I know that other governments say no cheeses from unpasteurized milk, so soft cheeses are ok as long as they are pasteurized. I've been going on the no soft cheeses generally rule - and I do love a good ripe (stinky) triple cream brie. So I miss it.
Either way, all hard cheese (cheddar, parmesan, american, edam, emmental, tomte etc etc) is ok. Also, as the issue is listeria, heat destroys the bug, so thoroughly cooked soft cheese is also fine - on pizzas, in sauces etc - so long as it is served hot.
Dkw's no dairy thing is nursing, not pregnancy related.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Just a quick check-in. I'm headed to the perinatologist this morning. So far I've had 2 negative fetal fibronectin tests (negative is good). No contractions or bleeding or dilating. This is the point in my pregnancy with Aerin where things went from bad to catastrophic, so I'm nervous. Still, I'm 25+ weeks! One week from today I'll be more pregnant than I've ever been.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:How many of you who didn't want an epidural (or other drug pain relief) change their mind due to pain being more than you thought it would be?
*raises hand*
Yay for Mrs.M! I still say we should be a cheerleading squad.
Ready? OK!
So, how's that fetal fibronectin? NEGATIVE! What? NEGATIVE! And how's that placental connection? POSITIVE! What? POSITIVE! We got no interuterine restriction, You've got Hatrack's benediction Keep those two gals in ten more weeks And you'll be full term, sweet cheeks!
GOOOOOO KIRA!
*jumps around in a hyper but good-natured manner*
Okay, so I suck as a cheerleader. But I'm pulling for you just the same!
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
quote:Originally posted by Valentine014: Another question for those who have already gone through delivery: How many of you who didn't want an epidural (or other drug pain relief) change their mind due to pain being more than you thought it would be? While I haven't done my own research on the topic yet, my first instinct is to get an epidural if that is possible, but later researching my change my mind.
If the two (2!) godawful contractrations I had during transition with Charles had been the early labor we thought it was I might have ended up having one. I think that kind of intensity for an hour or more would have worn me out. Three minutes of it was doable, though. There are some major advantages in terms of recovery time for both you and the baby in not getting the epidural, and you can always change your mind and get one if things get too bad.
Plus, you're into skydiving and extreme sports -- the adreneline high from natural childbirth is not something you should miss unless you have to. </advocacy>
'doh! I should have left my pregnancy and childbirth books with you when we moved!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay Mrs. M!!!!
quote:Originally posted by Valentine014: Another question for those who have already gone through delivery: How many of you who didn't want an epidural (or other drug pain relief) change their mind due to pain being more than you thought it would be?
I went into it with an open mind. I wanted to try things as long as I could without it. I was induced, so I knew that would up my chances of wanting an epidural, but I was still waiting to see how things went. I ended up with an epidural when I was between 5 and 6 cm. My doctor had suggested I might want it for when he inserted a contraction monitor (which he had to do twice and it was pretty unpleasant), but the anesthesiologist didn't make it in time for that. It ended up being a good thing I had one because I was extremely tired (I'd been up for about 30 hours at that point and contracting like crazy for most of it) and after a few more more hours stuck at 6cm I ended up with a c-section (and having the epidural already there made it quicker to get the section done).
Posted by Valentine014 (Member # 5981) on :
Maybe Karl can bring them to me? Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Congrats on 25 weeks Mrs M!
For three nights now I've had contractions of increasing intensity, that go for 1 hr +, and then stop. (Last night it was more like 5 hours). Not very regular, but regular-ish.
So, I figure either -
Hey, maybe a baby soon!
or
Maybe the baby's engaging!
or
Maybe 6 1/2 more weeks of this!
(Really hope it's not the last one.)
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
I have what my Dr calls the lightening bolt ones all the time... Like, days, nights, afternoons, all the times. I've come to accept that these mean nothing and I'm going to have to deal with it for weeks. That said - I don't really mind dealing with it because (like the lack of solid nights of sleeping) I figure it's just prepping me for what's to come...
kq - nice cheer... : )
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Lightening bolt is a good description! I don't *really* mind either, except that I can't help getting a little excited when they keep going... and going...
(and then stop.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Um. I don't want to make you groan, but it is PROBABLY still Braxton-Hicks...
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I know. (But I can live in hope, right?)
Posted by Valentine014 (Member # 5981) on :
I am watching this show called "Freebirthing" on Discovery Health. I am horrified at the ignorance (stupidity) of one of these girls (Heather, if you are watching). She has no clue about she is doing. What I think is actually worse is when she did go to the hospital they were very ticked off about treating her.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Oh, imogen, I feel your pain so much. I had some false alarms that went on for 2+ hours (one that went for, like, twelve). It's so hard to get your hopes up and then not go into labor over and over and over. And then you start to wonder if you'll know when the real thing comes along.
The only help I can give you is to tell you that you'll know. The real thing is quite a bit different.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Thanks for the cheer and the good wishes! I think that might be the first cheer anyone ever made up for me and I was a cheerleader for a long time. It was definitely the first pregnancy cheer.
Everything looks great. There's still cervix above the stitch, my fluid is perfect, and the babies are healthy. Baby A is 1 pound, 13 ounces and Baby B is 1 pound, 12 ounces. I now have 3 pounds and 9 ounces of baby in me, which is twice as much as I've ever had. The numbers are blowing my mind. In one week from today I'll be more pregnant than I've ever been. Crazy.
The babies are both in the 50th percentile, which is still surprising to me. I always expected to have chubby babies, but that's just not going to happen. It's not that I mind, it's just that I have weight=health imprinted on my mind from Aerin. Also, Andrew and I were both more than 8 pounds and Andrew is a ginormatron. I can't imagine how little they would be if I wasn't eating a high-calorie, high-carb diet. They're extremely active, which is exactly how Aerin was (and today I had to put the waistband on her 2T pants on the tightest setting so they wouldn't fall down (she's 3)). It's for the best, though, because I just don't have the room for superchunks. As Dr. Head put it today, "You're small and your uterus is small and scarred. Big babies would not be good."
imogen and cmc, it just didn't register how close y'all are. I don't know why, but I had this idea that both of you were only a couple of weeks ahead of me. I'm so excited!
Valentine, I haven't gained much weight with this pregnancy at all - maybe 20 pounds so far (they want me to gain at least 45). Everyone is different - my cousin Becki lost 37 pounds when she was pregnant with her second (healthy term baby) and my cousin Jill gained 60 pounds with her first. You just never know. You should talk to your doctor about different ways to get calcium because you're going to need more than you get from cheese when you're pregnant. I took a calcium supplement in powder form that was basically tasteless in water. There are also calcium-fortified drinks like rice milk and orange juice.
Pregnancies and births are so different that it's a wonder anyone can ever make any kind of decision. I had a miserable pregnancy with Aerin and had an emergency C-Section where I almost died. Despite that, I left the hospital 3 days later and was back to my normal activities 2 weeks later. My best friend's SIL had a term baby at home (sans drugs) the week before Aerin was born and she was in bed for about 2 months after that. You just never know. The important thing is to do what you feel is best for your and your baby.
That being said, I absolutely cannot even watch the commercials for Freebirthing. Medical intervention saved my life and Aerin's life and is saving the lives of the twins as we speak. I just cannot understand rejecting every kind of skilled attendant.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Mrs M - I'm a month off today. So it could be 10 days (37 weeks...) or it could be 6 weeks (and a probable induction). If I got that long, we could be close together after all!
Edit - Brinestone, I was actually thinking about you other day. I remember when you had all those false starts with duplo - only now do I understand how frustrating it must have been! I am hoping that I will recognise the real thing when it starts.
[ October 22, 2008, 03:31 AM: Message edited by: imogen ]
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I'm not "allowed" to have Braxton-Hicks. That is, I have to go to the hospital immediately if I feel anything remotely like an contraction. I can definitely understand being impatient, though. I wish I could go into some sort of hibernation until the babies are born.
My college friends are fascinated with my pregnancy (they were with Aerin, too). None of them have kids yet - I was the first to get married by 6 years. My friend Samantha says that I should talk to girls in high schools because I give all the gory details about how it stinks to be pregnant. I know it's not crummy for everyone, but I was shocked and angry when I didn't get a beautiful, earth-mother experience, so I want to prepare my friends just in case.
I'm doing so well that I am allowed to go to the NICU reunion this weekend! I have to sit the entire time, of course, but that's fine.
imogen, I saw something perfect for your little guy, but it's backordered until 12/31. So if you could hold on until December, that'd be great. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Well I'm certainly not holding on to the 31st. Sadist.
( )
Glad to hear it's all going well still - have fun at the reunion.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
It turns out that it will be available by 12/5. Though they won't ship internationally, so it'll have to come to me first. I'll try to have it there in 2008. Which reminds me that I want to confirm that I have your correct address. Which I can't do until tomorrow at the earliest, because I can't go upstairs. So frustrating.
We've had lots of good news this week. To my utter shock, I passed my glucose test! I have so many risk factors (PCOS, twins, bad, bad luck) that I was sure I'd fail. My OB was prepared for me to fail. But I passed! I celebrated with ice cream and Heath Bars and Almond Joys (Andrew got the Halloween candy early).
I also had another negative FFN! This will take me past 28 weeks! I cannot even fathom going that far and now the doctors are cautiously optimistic that I'll go even farther. I'm going to have a 3rd trimester. I am now the most pregnant I've ever been. Crazy.
This is making me feel so bad for my Aerin. She had such a rough start and so many disadvantages that these babies won't have. She's doing really well in school, but she has to work so hard to achieve what most children do without any effort, which is almost certainly due to a combination of being a micropreemie and prolonged exposure to strep-B in the womb (there's compelling clinical evidence that such exposure can cause speech and language delays).
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yay for third trimesters! I think you're gonna go all the way!
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Nice work, Mrs.M!!! : ) While I have no experience with anything similar, trying to put myself into your place I'd say that what your feeling sounds natural. You're the Mom... it seems totally rational to me that you'd feel not so hot about her early start. At the same time, I think there's a lot to be said for the care that she DID get and the fight that you guys made to give her the best beginnings with the circumstances you faced. It seems like things could have been far worse for her... I'll stop now in the event that I'm sounding like an idiot. Just trying to say maybe you don't have to feel bad for her for the tough stuff she went through, feel proud of her for making it through... : )
Kyle's out of town until the 14th... Luckily, although the baby's 100% ready and in position to come out into the wide world, my cervix is telling her otherwise. ; ) Next appt is on Tuesday.
: )
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Yay Mrs M! I'm with cmc - I understand why you feel bad, but I know you and Andrew have done so much for Aerin. She's a fighter, and I'm sure she gets that from you guys. And I know she'll continue that way.
I'm at 37 weeks tomorrow. Midwife agrees I've been having prelabour and baby is making exit moves, but who knows when it will actually happen. I oscillate between thinking it may be soon and being convinced I'm going to 41+....
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Convince yourself it'll be 42 weeks. Then you won't be disappointed when it doesn't happen!
(But, you know, have everything ready just in case. )
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
That's what I'm trying to do. Unfortunately, either I'm not very persuasive, or I'm not very gullible.
The car seat isn't going to be ready until next week anyway, so I really don't want him to come before that.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
There you go.
Now start a big project like alphabetizing the nursery and convince yourself he can't come until you're done. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Alphabetizing the nursery?!?
Uh . . . does that mean the changing table has to be between the bassinet and the crib?
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
I haven't checked in here for awhile but I'm THRILLED to read about everyone's progress.
Mrs. M, I was recently in a Richmond hospital, which made me think about you and those twins. I'm so glad to hear about every additional day that they're staying put. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:Originally posted by rivka: Alphabetizing the nursery?!?
Uh . . . does that mean the changing table has to be between the bassinet and the crib?
That's one way to do it. The beauty of this project is that it will never end. You will keep thinking of new ways they can be alphabetized, then decide in the end that alphabetical is not the way to go and switch them back to the way you had them in the beginning (hopefully BEFORE the baby is actually born.) Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Still cooking.
More prelabour signs but no baby. 38.5 weeks and counting down...
Yay for the 30s!!
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Thanks, Liz! What hospital? We've been in all of them for one reason or another. The next time you're in town, call me! Of course, I'm not allowed to leave the house until the babies are born, but after that...
imogen and cmc, how are y'all doing? Still cooking?
I had a perinatologist appt. today and all went well. My Fetal Fibronectin test was negative, which will bring me into week 30! I can't believe I'm going to get into the 30s. I can't believe I'm in the third trimester.
The babies have grown. A lot. Baby A is 3 pounds, 1 ounce (73rd percentile) and Baby B is 2 pounds, 11 ounces (56th percentile)! I've had a few really bad days, with lots of pain and discomfort, which was clearly stretching. The doctor confirmed my suspicion that the rest of my pregnancy will be miserable (her word). That's just fine with me - it's so much more miserable having babies in the NICU. Baby A wouldn't even be a micropreemie if she was born today. Micropreemies are under 3 pounds. I am just so happy that they're big. I am carrying almost 6 pounds of baby.
I'm also a little worried about how big I'm going to get. I am shockingly large now. I am so much more aware of how short I am. I'm barely 5'4'' and short-waisted. All of the women in the doctor's office today were taller than I am. And smaller.
Edit - something weird happened. Here is the full post. Also, if one more person says to me, "At least you're not having 6 like Jon & Kate Plus 8," I'm going to scream. That's not helpful.
Posted by Kama (Member # 3022) on :
I'm happy for you Mrs. M Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Yup - still cooking. Last Friday at the ultrasound she got another 8/8 on the biophysical and looked to be about 7lbs 4oz. Kyle's back on Friday - so she's free to come whenever she'd like after I pick him up at the airport... ; )
Nice work, Mrs.M!!! ; )
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Mrs. M--week 30!! Hooray! I am so excited that you've gotten so far.
I was at Henrico Doctor's Hospital visiting my grandfather--we do visit him in Richmond not infrequently, so maybe we can get together sometime when you're off bedrest.
I'm excited for you, too, cmc! Keep us posted!
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Hooray to all you preggo ladies!
I'm really happy for you, Mrs. M, for making it so far.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Me too. Mrs. M, you're still in my prayers every morning and every night, and your babies too.
Posted by Fool (Member # 11813) on :
Hey Mrs. M, you don't know me, I'm new, but congratulations. I am immediately a fan of yours, because now I know there are at least two families in the world with an Aerin (mine is 2 1/2). Good luck!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay Mrs. M! I was thinking about you yesterday and wondering how the babies were doing. I'm so glad things are going well!!
cmc - Hopefully the baby will wait till your husband gets home, but not much after that!
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
That's what I'm screamin', ludosti! ; )
So - question about car seat stuff... Had the seat installed and all that fun stuff this morning. They told me not to use 1) any sort of snuggli type sleeping bagish blanket - even if it has the holes for the straps to go through or 2) any of those head support thingies. (the ones that look like upside down u's?). Does this jive with anyone else's info? I was sort of amazed when they told me that - because it seems like EVERYONE uses those...
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I was told the same thing- and I think it was in the little how to install book. Though I think that they had a head support that you could order that was designed to work with the specific car seat.
Posted by theCrowsWife (Member # 8302) on :
That's interesting. All of the car seats I've bought came with the U-shaped head supports. I never used any sort of bag things; if it was cold I just wrapped a blanket over the baby after she was strapped in.
--Mel
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Okay, resident car seat geek speaking up here.
It is okay to use the head support that COMES WITH the car seat or, in some cases, one made by the company (check your instruction manual) because they have been crash tested with them. You should not use any "aftermarket products"-- products made by someone else-- because they have not been crash tested and may interfere with harness routing, snug fit, and in general invalidate your warranty and decrease the safety of the seat. The only things it is okay to use that don't come with the seat/aren't sold by the seat maker are ones that do not interfere with the harness or function of the seat or come between the seat and baby at all. You may use rolled recieving blankets for head support if your seat does not come with a head support. It is okay to use a "shower cap style" seat covering that does not touch the inside of the carrier at all but only goes around the outside, or you may just put a thick blanket or quilt over the baby once s/he is snugly fastened, or you may use the Car Seat Poncho. A thick winter coat or snowsuit or bunting should never ever be worn in the carseat; in a crash it will compress and it will be as if the harness was loose, the baby can fly right out of the seat. (This has happened, one instructor has a picture of a baby seat with an empty snowsuit still snugly buckled in; the baby was ejected and killed instantly.) Only lightweight layers should be worn in the carseat and the harness should be snug enough you should not be able to "pinch a tent." Also, the harness slots MUST be AT OR BELOW the baby's shoulders while rear facing, AT or ABOVE while forward-facing (in the United States; different rules in Australia.) And a child should stay rear-facing as long as possible, it is 5 times safer. Most convertible seats now rear-face to 33 or 35 lbs. in the U.S., and many now forward-face harness well past 40 lbs. which used to be the standard. I am always available to provide input on convertible seats if you need it.
I'm really into this stuff. When we get a second car I intend to certify as a Child Passenger Safety Technician. Please feel free to ask any carseat questions by e-mailing me, posting a thread to me, or anything any time. You can also go to http://www.car-seat.org and ask any questions. No registration required to ask a question and someone has probably already asked it and you can do a search. You will also find pictures of the test and products I described. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, and as for "everyone" using aftermarket products-- you may be right. Nationally car seat misuse rates are around 3 in 4, 70-75% (misuse constituting anything from those aftermarket products, to using a restraint that does not fit the child, to using it incorrectly, to incorrect installation, to using an expired seat, and beyond) but in some areas they approach 85-90%. The horror stories I've heard you would not believe... Please, please read and follow your carseat's instructions! You should always read the instructions for both the carseat and the car and clarify any questions (either at car-seat.org, they have most of the answers, or with the vehicle or car seat manufacturer) BEFORE using the seat.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: A thick winter coat or snowsuit or bunting should never ever be worn in the carseat; in a crash it will compress and it will be as if the harness was loose, the baby can fly right out of the seat. (This has happened, one instructor has a picture of a baby seat with an empty snowsuit still snugly buckled in; the baby was ejected and killed instantly.
Oh how awful.
Good to know, kq.
Is it ok to tuck in a little blanket or something over the harness? (Given the seasons here, this won't be a concern for at least 6 months, but it can get nippy of a night in winter.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yes, it is totally okay to put a blanket or something else OVER the properly-harnessed child. In fact many parents in cold climates put their kids in coats, take them off when they get in the seats, buckle them, then put the coats on backwards like a blanket. As long as the child is buckled snugly in FIRST, it is safe to put a blanket over. Or you can check out the Car Seat Poncho linked above-- I think they ship internationally and they are an EXCELLENT product!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Ooh, I had forgotten about kq being a carseat wiz! Thanks to her recommendation, I'm really liking the Radian we have now for Beanie. I'm also very happy that the carseat cooler I made for her first carseat (in the summertime I need to keep the seat and buckles from getting hot enough to burn her while we're out running errands and the car has to sit in the sun) fits the Radaian too (with the easy addition of a piece of elastic).
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: one instructor has a picture of a baby seat with an empty snowsuit still snugly buckled in; the baby was ejected and killed instantly
This just makes my heart ache to think about. Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Car seats are one of my soapboxes.
I am frequently surprised by people and their attitudes towards carseats.
In one case, some prosperous, nice friends from our church were adamant that they would never, ever drive over the speed limit, BUT were perfectly fine with taking babies out of car seats on long road trips for nursing, because they "wanted to make good time". As the car is hurtling along at a (strictly legal, eyeroll) 65 mph.
My brother was an EMT for some years and had plenty of horror stories. Cars don't even have to be going that fast before impact for improperly buckled little kids to die.
Kudos, KQ. What a cool job that would be.
(also sorry for my preachy monologue. I usually try not to be horrified at people and confess the sins of others)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, you would not imagine the number of BMWs and Lexuses and other way-too-expensive-for-me-to-afford-them vehicles I see with old, nasty, expired and unsafe seats in our local community. The mind boggles. I also see way too many kids forward-facing way too soon. And very strange installations of expensive carseats. There is no benefit to buying a top-of-the-line carseat if you are going to use it in a way that negates its safety. I am really looking forward to becoming certified. It's not a paying job but it's an important one! (Although I'm considering hiring myself out to the studios nearby as a "carseat consultant" so I don't have to see horrible usage on as many tv shows and movies, lol!)
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
So... Got it on the car seat stuff... I was actually sort of waiting for ketchupqueen to weigh in on it and I'm sold on the no additions... Just to clarify - you WOULD use the little head-roll thing that came with the car seat or you would NOT? The woman at the installation was explaining that because babies spend so much time on their backs - their neck muscles are really weak... So if the baby got lopsided on there for some reason and their head was stuck forward, they might close off their airway. I'm not really complaining about any of this - I'll either use it or not - but clearly NOT if it's not safe... ; )
As of today - about 2cm dilated and 50% effaced... I didn't get the number but the doc said she's 'nice and low'... ; ) She also said that she's on call tonight and I might see her later. Not sure how credible that is - but we'll see... ; ) The mucus plug is officially GONE and I've been having contractions all day since the appointment... I'm not holding my breath but I think she's gonna be here sometime soon... If she doesn't come by next Wed - we've got an ultrasound to check her fluid and decide if we need to induce...
How's everyone else doing???
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Wowee! Good luck.
I've had very little action since my last appointment (which was a week ago) - baby was 2/5 engaged then.
Seeing the midwife on Friday morning, so we'll see. Then it's just up to him. If he does come late, we won't be inducing until about 41 +6.... (as long as he's still happy and healthy) so it could still be a December baby. (I hope not.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Wooo hooo imogen! Engagement is good! Hopefully that will get things moving for you soon! I've always been starting to dilate before I'm induced. If you get to 3 or 4 it gets very uncomfy to just hang out around that... You may decide if you get to that point to go before 42 weeks. Leave yourself open. But I bet you're going to go on your own by 40 +3 at the latest. That's my guess!
quote:Just to clarify - you WOULD use the little head-roll thing that came with the car seat or you would NOT? The woman at the installation was explaining that because babies spend so much time on their backs - their neck muscles are really weak... So if the baby got lopsided on there for some reason and their head was stuck forward, they might close off their airway.
I would use (and have used) a head support supplied by the car seat manufacturer. It's perfectly safe. Babies have better head control than that from birth unless they are significantly premature or have a muscle tone problem. It's not that "babies spend so much time on their backs" that gives them weak necks; it's that babies are born weak all over. But within a few weeks most can hold their heads up in many situations and in many cases also turn away from something over their face.
Now, it is important to have the seat installed at the correct angle. If it is not at a full 45 degree angle, a newborn with poor neck control can have their head flop forward and that is when suffocation is a real danger. The "level indicator" on the seat is not always accurate. After putting the baby in the car observe for a moment. If the baby's head flops forward the seat is not reclined enough, no matter what the seat's indicator says. This is also why the head support should go around/over their head, not under their neck or the top of their head. If it's under their neck or head it can push the head forward.
You also need to be careful to keep things out of the carseat that can get trapped in front of a newborn's face. If they have a hood on their jacket it should be up, not down behind their head; that could, again, push it up, or they could pull at it and get it over their face. If you cover baby with a blanket tuck it firmly down around her so she can't pull it up. If you have rolled recieving blankets for support it is a good idea to tape them into shape so that they can't come unrolled if the baby wiggles.
Also, to promote better head control and stronger muscles all around and prevent head flattening, all babies should have "tummy time" for fifteen to twenty minute, supervised intervals several times a day from birth on (unless a medical condition prevents it.) And having better head control and stronger necks means more safety in the car and possibly less danger of SIDS because of ability to change positions. (This last paragraph brought to you by my mom, the craniofacial nurse. )
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
40+3 sounds good to me.
I guess I won't rule out an earlier induction: but if I am induced, I have to go to the regular hospital delivery suites, not the birth centre. I am very keen on delivering in the birth centre, so if I can possibly work it that way I want to.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Even if you're not "induced" induced there are things your midwife can do, like stripping the membranes, that might kick labor up if you're at that point. So it's just something to keep in mind. I've been to 41 + weeks at 4 cm for days with contractions that were not turning to real labor for 2 weeks straight and I never, ever, ever want to go there again...
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Yeah, my midwife tends to strip the membranes at about 41+3. I'm not sure if she'd do it earlier or not.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Any new babies yet?
I can't imagine being overdue, but then again, I can't imagine even getting to my due date.
I will, however, definitely make it to 31+ weeks. I had another negative fFN today! Everything looks so good that I don't even have to have an exam next week, just my progesterone shot.
If you have a preemie or low-birth-weight term baby or a baby with certain kinds of medical equipment or respiratory ailments, you may not use anything that does not come with the car seat, including rolled up blankets. Our NICU and PCN do not allow them for any of the babies. Aerin was very small and did need the preemie attatchment that came with the seat. We never had any problems with her head sagging. Of course, our car seat was inspected at a fire station and by the NICU physical therapist (who is also a nurse), so it was for sure installed correctly.
I've heard that there's proposed recommendation at various public health agencies regarding the mirrors you can put up to see your rear-facing child from the rear view mirror. I think that's probably a good idea, because they're extremely distracting. When you're looking at your baby, you're not watching the road. If you think your baby is in distress, pull over.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I have one, and I wouldn't say it's distracting. I don't usually look at it, and when I do, it's usually to check if my kids are asleep. Also, I check it most often while stopped at lights (then it was to smile at them and say hi). I can't imagine that a little mirror is any more distracting than the other mirrors you glance in while driving safely, unless you just stare at your kids instead of, you know, glancing.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
The problem with the mirrors is not that they're a distraction, but that they don't firmly anchor to the car, and become a projectile in a crash-- usually aimed right at a small baby's head. (Also a good reason to keep your car clean and carry cargo ONLY in the trunk-- in an accident, imagine a giant turning your car upside down and shaking it. Anything heavy that's not strapped in or anchored to the car can injure or kill occupants. That's also the reason even an unoccupied car seat or booster should be belted in in the car, although some newer harness/booster combos now let you use the LATCH attachments to anchor the seat when it's not in use in booster mode so you don't have to buckle it in every time.)
quote:If you have a preemie or low-birth-weight term baby or a baby with certain kinds of medical equipment or respiratory ailments, you may not use anything that does not come with the car seat, including rolled up blankets.
This varies widely. Many NICUs that have CPSTs on staff or volunteering with them DO approve the use of rolled blankets and/or a washcloth under the crotch buckle to fit the child correctly. These have been tried and tested methods that are approved by the national certifying agency for car safety technicians, and are often recommended/used by special-needs certified technicians who work in NICUs and do a lot of work on this subject. Work is being done right now to update the AAP and AMA guidelines on car seat trials for preemies/low birthweight babies, including what should and should not be used with them, training in car seat safety for NICU workers (many of whom do not have much-- ideally, there should be a special-needs certified CPST working in concert with the neonatologist and other staff and the parents to all make sure the baby is safe in the car, but this rarely happens-- there just aren't enough techs to go around and some hospitals don't even see the need even though things are constantly changing in the world of child passenger safety) and technicians are also working with companies that make portable oxygen tanks, monitors, and other equipment used by some preemies to make sure that this equipment has a way to anchor to the car in future models. This is an area of high interest for me personally and many techs in general, and rest assured there are many people working on it. Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
The mirror we have is soft. Fabric with a thin layer of something reflective, but still light and flexible. It would be about as effective a projectile as a handkerchief. And like Brinestone said, a quick glance doesn't take your eyes off the road any more than looking in your rearview mirror, which my driver's ed instructor said you should do about every 7 seconds.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
kq, I'm going to have to disagree with you. The Henrico Doctors' Hospital NICU is a Level III - I can assure you that they both have a special-needs CPST on staff (I just called - the benefits of being on the parent board) and that they are aware of the latest research. They still feel that rolled up blankets are not safe. One of the reasons is that they can interfere with apnea monitors. You'd be amazed at how easily the leads can get tangled up or bumped out and there's nothing more distracting to a driver than an apnea monitor going off while an infant screams (trust me on this). While I respect your expertise, I just could never feel safe using something they don't approve of.
On a related note, my mother told me this morning that she'd been taking Aerin's coat off before buckling her into the car seat. I'm pretty sure I'd told her to, but she couldn't remember if I did - she just felt more comfortable that way. This is the woman who took me home from the hospital in her arms in the front seat without wearing a seatbelt herself. Though she did insist that I wear a seatbelt when the click in campaign reached us and was considered obsessively strict by everyone else.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
About the mirrors - the way it was explained to me was, "Most parents don't glance, they gaze." I forget who the public policy person was (it was at a March of Dimes meeting - we get a lot of public policy folks speaking with us). That phrase stuck in my mind. I didn't put up a mirror for that reason. I know I'd be a gazer and would be checking ever other second.
Brinestone and dkw, please don't think I'm saying that y'all are unsafe - I don't think that at all. I'm not even saying that all parents are gazers, but I think enough are that they are doing the research and considering legislation.
kq, do you know if there's research on car seats in third row seating of crossovers? We're considering getting a crossover instead of a wagon. I'm putting all the kids in the second row, but I'm wondering about safety if we have more kids. We're test driving the Volvo XC90 tomorrow (I got permission). I'm so sad to lose my beloved Forester, but we just can't fit all 3 kids and the gigantic stroller in there.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
No baby.
Two days before the due date, so he's not late yet. I still wouldn't mind seeing him though.
The grandmothers-in-waiting are now on daily calls - just to check in. And my mother is still finding things to buy. (She bought his Christmas outfit last night. It is pretty adorable.)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Mrs. M, yes, there's research. The middle row is statistically safest, but the back seat is still very safe. The two schools of thought are to put the most vulnerable child(ren) in the most protected spot, or to put the least protected children (seatbelt only, then boostered, then forward-facing, then rear-facing) in the most protected spot. I lean toward the latter most of the time, but in the case of preemies lean toward the former. However a lot of it comes down to what will or won't work in a given car. In the end all rear seating positions are safe; the middle seat has a slight advantage over the back, as the center has a slight advantage over the sides in each row and the driver's side has a slight advantage over the passenger side (in most areas-- that one actually is different in some cities), but in the end, they are all much, much safer than the front seat. Much more important than seating position is type of restraint (rear-facing as long as possible, then harnessed as long as needed, then high back booster until they are outgrown, then low back booster until they are not needed, and EVERYONE-- including adults-- having proper head restraint and a three-point belt, which means don't buy anything without lap-shoulder belts in every position and a headrest in every position.) When picking out a car, it's a good idea to check out the safety at Informed For Life, where they make a composite score based on various testing standards. If side curtain airbags and other features are not standard, though, they won't include that in the score; you can adjust the score to see if they will be in the top few percent if they have those features before making your decision. (For instance we want an 8-pass. Sienna next. VSC and side airbags do not come standard on all models before 08 model year, and the Siennas before that year get mid-range safety scores. However, add those features and they get a safety score in the top few top percent. So we will make sure those features are on any Sienna we get. )
One thing many of the crossovers DON'T have, though, is an actual trunk contained fully behind seats or etc.; the "trunk" area is very open with only a low seatback in front of it. A few studies have been done about the danger of large strollers and stuff in a trunk like that being projectiles. One thing that may be helpful is to get a cargo net and always secure strollers, etc. under the net.
Apnea monitors are definitely an instance when rolled blankets may not be appropriate; that's why the doctors need to work with the techs. However, in many hospitals, they are allowed. Often not around the body, though, but around the head (where the head support normally is on a car seat.)
And yes, as dkw noted they make mirrors of soft cloth that are safer than the other kind.
imogen, that is so cute about the grandmothers. I was on the phone with my mom every day toward the end of my first pregancy too (until she went out of the country!!!)
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
*waiting anxiously for imogen's baby to arrive*
(not nearly as anxiously as imogen!!)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Hey, imogen... Baby yet??? Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Yeah, imogen, baby yet??? ; )
Having contractions all the time - but no real pattern. They'll get to about 10 minutes apart for like an hour and then quit so I'm not getting too worked up about it... If she's not here by Wednesday - the doc's going to induce... That's about all I've got.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
No baby. I am awake at 2am with a head cold though.
Had an appointment with the midwife on Friday - baby was still good, heartbeat strong. The midwife said given it's my first, 41 weeks is not unrealistic. I'm still hoping KQ had it right with 40+3.
My schedule is: next Friday - if I'm still in, we do a trace of the heartrate just to check he's ok. If he is, we wait. (I'm planning on asking her to strip the membranes then though, if he is). Then on 41+3, an ultrasound to check the fluid. Then at about 41+6, induce. I hope he gets his act together before then.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
I'm with you on the getting the act together...
Sorry about the head cold - but that could be a good thing? I keep hearing about 'flu like symptoms'... ; )
I've got an ultrasound Tuesday to check everything out and a doc appt that day...
Here's to these two deciding to join us out here!!! ; )
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I totally got congested when I was having some pretty heavy-duty dilation with my first (before they finally agreed to induce so I wouldn't be in slow labor for 2 more weeks, lol.) I have many friends who have totally gotten "colds" that turned out to be early labor.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Wow, more than 40 weeks! I really can't imagine. I'm pretty psyched about hitting 30 tomorrow. I'm so uncomfortable - you ladies have my sympathy. I'm praying for quick and easy deliveries to happen asap.
We went with the wagon. I didn't like driving the crossover and the third row seat doesn't seat adults! It was too big for me to be comfortable driving it, but not big enough to be convenient enough to make up for that. The trunk in the wagon can fit the double stroller and the single. It's a tight fit in the back with all 3 seats, but they fit safely. It also has pop-up booster seats in the back, which fit all the national safety standards. I can't imagine why all cars don't do this. We're going to have seats installed in the trunk in a few years.
Of course, I'll have to give up this car if we have a 4th child. Hopefully they'll have improved crossovers by then, because I never want to drive a minivan or a full SUV.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote: It also has pop-up booster seats in the back, which fit all the national safety standards. I can't imagine why all cars don't do this.
1. They have an expiration date, just like all other seats, and will probably expire before you use them, since kids should be harnessed as long as possible and Aerin is so petite (though the expiration is sometimes longer than the typical car seat; check your manual or call the vehicle manufacturer.) Just like non-integrated seats, it can't be used after a crash in which they were in use.
2. They don't fit all kids well and are not usually as comfy (meaning more slumping and less safety if the kid falls asleep, etc.) Different boosters fit different kids; they are not one-size-fits-all. A child needs to pass the five-step test for being out of a booster IN a booster first, or the booster doesn't fit and a different one should be used. If a booster doesn't position the belt correctly on your particular child, they are only slightly more safe than in the regular adult belt.
3. They don't provide the added side impact protection of the shell of a non-integrated high-back booster seat. Significant advances in advanced head containment for children and side impact protection have been made in the past few years and while not a primary feature of most seats it's something worth looking into before making a choice in booster.
That said, they are excellent for emergencies, backup, etc., and definitely can be used every day if they fit a child properly (belt is positioned correctly), the child is mature enough to sit properly at all times in the booster (and rarely falls asleep, etc.), they are not expired, and the child has reached the 4 years and 40 lbs. that is the absolute minimum recommended for non-harnessed booster use (my personal minimum is more like 6 years old after reading about hip development, and more like 8 is ideal.)
I'm glad you found a car you like though! I personally can't wait for my minivan. I am enchanted by the 5 full sets of LATCH in the 8 passenger Sienna. Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Yeah, I planned to have the girls in Britax boosters anyway (I love Britax), but it's nice to have the option. One of the reasons we went with a Volvo is b/c of all the extra safety features. I am the last holdout of almost every other mom I know with regards to minivans. Ironically, I am also the mom with the most kids of all the moms I know (well, I will be). Even my OB has one.
For some stupid reason, I watched Freebirthing today. It was even more horrifying than I thought it would be. When Heather asked if it takes 20 minutes without oxygen for a baby to die, I almost passed out. That is NOT someone who should be giving birth without assistance. 20 minutes! Maybe it's because I've seen so many babies have apnea episodes, but that just about knocked me out.
I think that Baby A is either hurling herself against me or bracing herself and kicking and punching with all her might. Baby B is constantly in motion and is pushing hard against me. I'm glad they're active, but I am so uncomfortable. Did I mention that I have to pee constantly and that I fall asleep with almost no warning? January can't come fast enough.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Poor thing! One active baby at a time is enough for me, I can't imagine two of them pummelling each other and you in there!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(Oh, and sadly, Britax will probably have no boosters out other than the combo seats by the time your kids are ready for them. According to a spokesperson they are moving away from boosters altogether in America. They've already discontinued the Parkway-- sadly, as it's a wonderful, skinny booster great for 3 across-- and are planning on retiring the Monarch next year last I heard.)
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Tobias James Eaton, born 4.31pm 24/11/08.
Long and complicated delivery, but all ended well. Just got home from hospital - all three of us. Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Congrats! Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
What wonderful news! Mazel tov! LOVE the name.
Posted by lobo (Member # 1761) on :
Live long and prosper!
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
Yay! Congratulations, Imogen!
So how close was KQ?
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Yippeeeeee! hooray for baby Tobias for getting born!!!!! Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!
On the way to the hospital... I'll post when I can... : )
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Wow CMC too!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Congrats imogen!!! I can't wait to see pictures and read the story.
Yay cmc!! Hopefully things will go well for you!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Good luck cmc!
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Go cmc!!!! Wow, we will be close. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Photos are going in the mothers & new babies thread. Story will come a bit later, when I have some more time.
(Off to post photos...)
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Good luck, cmc! Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
SHE'S HERE!!! Chloe Elizabeth weighed in at 7lbs and measured 20in... She got here at 6:12 - 1/2 an hour of pushing, no stitches or anything...
That's it for now!!! : ) : ) : ) : )
Posted by Valentine014 (Member # 5981) on :
Hooray! Congratulations!
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Well done! Fantastic. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Congratulations!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
It surely does! Good job, Mama! She looks big!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Awww! What a sweetheart and what happy, proud parents! I love the bunny-ears picture. Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Yayyyyyyy! (I love the name Chloe, too!)
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Congrats!
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Okay - here's the quick and dirty... Went into the hospital on Wednesday night. They wanted to induce because they thought that she was getting really big... Clearly that was not the case, since she was 7lbs, but everything worked out so no worries.
Went in - about 10 they did the cervadil and 'slept' through the night - getting vitals checked about every 4 hours. The room was pretty cool because the loveseat that was in the room folded out to a bed, so Kyle could stay there in relative comfort.
So... fast forward to about 10 the next morning - they started pitocin and it was in fast motion from then on! Water broke at about 12:20 and I was 3cm when they checked. Dr. Cahill suggested if I were going to get an epidural, then I'd probably want to let them know then because with the water breaking, the cushion goes away and it gets more uncomfortable. Because we were spine to spine, he figured it could be not so nice for me... I went for it. I'm glad I did, because it was painful. Even through the epidural... I went from 3-9.5 in about 4 hours. Some times were better than others - we actually watched the Heroes episode we missed on Monday night at one point. We went to go watch Prison Break but Kyle's wiser than I because he looked at me and said 'there's no way you can get through that'. He was right... About 5 o'clock, the doc came in and said there was one little lip he wanted to go away before I started pushing. The nurse came in about 5:15 and I told her I'd had two more really good contractions and I REALLY wanted to push at that point. She checked me, I was 10, she said go ahead and try to push. Kyle and I looked at each other like - really? This is it? and I pushed. She stopped me and said - yeah, DON'T push on the next one. She called the doc - 'Charlie - you wanna have a baby' (which actually made me smile, through the wincing w pain!). He got there - four sets of pushing later - Chloe was here! She came out just like a lady with her hand on her face - so that hurt a little bit. I had one small laceration, but it didn't need repair. She had a short cord, so she was low on my belly and then Kyle cut the cord (and blood squirted across the room). The rest has been amazing...
That's about all I've got time to type up right now - she's got a little jaundice (i should really say had, because it's almost all gone now) and was back up to 6 14 at the doc yesterday. We had some nursing problems - she got screwed up with her belly because she gulped 10 cc's of amniotic fluid into her belly that no one caught until the next morning and once they got it out she was so hungry she's now a biter (gummer?). Met with a lactation consultant yesterday, though, so we're good.
Yeah - that's it for now. I love her to pieces... She makes us both so happy it's crazy. It's awesome to see Kyle with her, too. Oh - and she squeaks, bless her. When she's eating, she squeaks. When she's waking up, she squeaks. *sigh*
Hope everyone else is doing well! Here's another link to some picks my Godmother took... Don't know if it'll work - but these are from her 4th day. : )
awwwwww!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Maggie had her hand by her face and ripped me up pretty good. Lucky you only got a little one!
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
My story (cross posted from Sake...)
Tobias James’ birth story –or, the best laid plans…..
Our pregnancy care was done through the Canberra Midwife Centre at the local hospital – the idea was that we would give birth at the birth centre, which is in the hospital but a discrete section. It has an emphasis on natural birth, with minimum drugs offered (gas, pethidine/morphine), lovely big double rooms, and staffed by midwives. It is, however, part of the hospital, so if things don’t go well, it is a simple ride up the lift to delivery suite (and beyond).
I was up early Sunday morning (23rd) – I thought it was just my head cold keeping me awake, but in retrospect those lower back pains that came and went regularly – yeah, they might have had something to do with it too. I got back to sleep about 5am, and slept till 9, when I woke with more back pains. By 10am the pains had graduated to starting in my lower back and graduating around to my pelvis. At this point I admitted that perhaps something was going on – at 40+1. We decided to head over to my mother’s house, and go on a planned trip to the local markets, to see if walking would do anything. [Tip 1 – I should have slept instead]. So we did, and walked around for an hour or so. The pains got a little more intense and a lot more regular – by midday, they were coming 8 minutes apart and lasting for 30-45s each time. So we headed back to my mother’s, and decided to stay there for a bit. The contractions were at 5 minutes apart by 2pm, and at 4 minutes apart by 3 pm. I kept active, walking through them [Tip 2 – I should have slept instead]. At this stage, I was getting a bit excited and didn’t want anything to slow down or stop. [Tip 3 – I should have slept instead.]
We had called our midwife at 1 or so just to let her know what was happening. At 3, we called again, but she was resting (in anticipation of a big night: Tip 4 – I should have followed her lead!) and another midwife came out to check on my at about 4. She did an internal, and said I was 1 cm dilated and in prelabour. I found this really disenheartening – the contractions were getting quite painful, were very regular, and I didn’t really want to go through another 12 hours of this before the real show started. The midwife suggested trying to sleep, but at this stage I was in enough pain that sleep was impossible. Tony and I decided to head home, and the contractions continued. We ate dinner, we tried all the positions from our birth classes, some helped. By 8, I was in much more discomfort again. We called our midwife who came out and did another internal. She said things had progressed, and that we would be heading into the birth centre that night. We called my Mum who came out (I wanted her with me in labour) and we kept labouring at home. By midnight we were ready to head into the birth centre: the contractions were still at 4 minutes apart, 90 second duration and quite painful. So in we went (not the funnest car ride), met Chris, our midwife there, and got settled into the room.
From midnight till 2, things went great – contractions continued, I kept labouring, we used all the equipment in the room, the nice bath etc etc. Then at 2 things just slowed down. I was exhausted [see previous tips – sleep would have been good!], and actually lay down on the bed. I was dozing, but waking up every 8 minutes or so for an incredibly painful contraction, then dozing again. I couldn’t keep my eyes open between contractions, and was having a hard time coping with the pain (which was still in my back as well as my pelvis). The contractions would come in waves of 3 or 4, right on top of each other, then nothing for 10 minutes or so.
By 4, we asked Chris to do another internal to see how I had progressed. I was at 5cm, and given the slowing down of contractions, we decided to rupture the membranes. They were clear, baby heart rate was still fine, and the contractions became more regular again for a while – so we thought things were moving again. By 6:30 though things had slowed down again: I was at 6cm, and the baby’s head hadn’t rotated properly. I was exhausted, and just not coping with the pain – I tried the gas but it did nothing. I finally decided we needed to do something because I couldn’t keep going at this rate (1cm every 2.5 hours!) – Chris agreed, and we decided to transfer up to delivery suit for syntocin to help the contractions along. I also decided at this point to have an epidural – I needed rest, and the syntocin contractions are very painful.
So up we went – we had previously toured delivery suite, so we knew it well, and we weren’t too worried: yes, it was not our original plan but I was pretty happy with the decision given the circumstances. I had the epidural in by 7:30, and the syntocin drip started as well. The epidural: well, at that point – magic. Just having the relief and being able to rest was incredible. We actually swapped midwives at this point – Chris went home to rest and another midwife came in. I was now hooked up to all manner of machines – the epidural (which had a top up pump for me to administer), the fluid drip, a constant baby heart rate monitor and a contraction monitor. In the birth centre, the heart rate was monitored every half hour by a hand held Doppler, so it was quite a contrast. It was also odd going from the focus on my body, what I was feeling, what my body was telling me to do, to having the machines do it for me. While I’m glad I decided to get the epidural when I did, I’m happy I had that first experience as well.
By 1pm I was at 10cm, and ready to push. I really enjoyed this part, and made good progress for about an half an hour: we thought the baby was going to be out by 2pm. Then – oh oh! Things slowed down. I kept pushing, but there was no movement at all by the baby. By 3, he still hadn’t travelled down any further, and his heart rate was starting to dip a little when I pushed. This was also the story at 3:30, and the midwife was pretty sure the head was still transverse. I was told to stop pushing, as the heart rate was showing a little stress, and the specialist came in to consult – he felt and confirmed the head was transverse and would need to be turned before I could deliver. The best option was a forceps turn & delivery, and it would need to be done in theatre – and if it didn’t work, I’d have an emergency caesearean. From here on in, things moved pretty quickly. I was prepped for theatre, Mum & Tony were gowned, and we were transferred through. When we got to theatre we were separated – although the specialist had said Mum & Tony could come in, the theatre nurse stopped them. I was wheeled in, not quite sure what was going on, and a little scared. The midwife was still with me though, and she helped a lot. Theatre was pretty manic – lots of people, moving very fast, all talking over me. I had a much stronger top on my epidural - lost all feeling pretty much immediately - and I was put in stirrups, and a sheet was put up so I couldn’t see what was happening. Tony & Mum were allowed back in, sat near my head and told to sit down and be quiet.
As it turns out, the specialist was concerned the baby wasn’t actually far down enough for a successful forceps delivery, so a caeser was much more likely than I realised. However when they had a good examination and found they could turn him, things calmed down a little – Tony was allowed down to the end of the bed, and after the registrar turned the head, Tony actually delivered the baby (under guidance!). It took two good pulls with the forceps and one push from me: and one episiotomy. (☹) Then out Tobias was and screaming. I got to have a quick look, then he went off to the paediatrician to get checked (agpars of 9 & 10) and then he came back and was placed on my chest. I was still hooked up to everything, and it was a bit hard to cuddle successfully (and the theatre nurses kept heaping heated blankets over us), but we did manage to finally get some skin to skin. I was being stitched up at this point, but was still numb so had no idea what was going on.
That was the birth. ☺ All over by 4:31pm on Monday 24th.
We then went back to delivery suit for a few hours – my blood pressure dropped a bit and my heart rate was too fast, so we had to wait for that to resolve, then I was allowed a shower. The epidural wore off and the pain from the episiotomy came in, which wasn’t so fun. Then we all went down to post partum, and got a great room – a single one, with a sofa bed for Tony. The midwife left about 8:30 that evening - she’d been with us all day.
We managed to get home by 4 on Tuesday 25th – so even with everything that went on, we were still back with baby within 24 hours. The midwifes have visited us every day at home, to check on baby and me, and do the various tests.
So… I have a few thoughts and issues from the birth. First and foremost, I’m happy we went the birth centre route: although we ended up high intervention, the system worked exactly the way it was meant to, and we had midwife support all the way through. The things that were scary or bewildering would have been 100 times more so without that continuous care. Second, I am a little upset it ended the way it did – I didn’t get to see the delivery, I didn’t feel it, and it took a few days to actually believe I did give birth. I knew it intellectually, but it felt like I’d gone into hospital pregnant, done some stuff to stop being pregnant, and then people gave me my baby. There’s a disconnect between the ending of the pregnancy and the production of the baby. Third, I’m grateful the intervention was available – as it turned out we both needed it, and I guess the whole story could have had a different ending without it.
That’s it. What a saga!
**
9 days out, I'm still a little sore from the stitches (ok, quite a bit sore) but otherwise all good. Toby is, of course, perfect. He had a few little marks from the forceps but they have all but faded. He is feeding like a champion, and has slept for 8+ hours (with a change + nurse stop in the middle) for 2 nights straight. I'm beginning to remember what it feels like to not be tired all the time.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Glad it went well in the end! It's interesting to me that with 3 inductions plus 3 epidurals, my experience has been so different each time. My third was the first time I had that "euphoria" they say you feel after delivery. (Of course, with my first two, I was hemmorhaging, the babies weren't breathing, etc. So that might have something to do wtih it...) Hopefully your "disconnect" will be over soon and you will be able to remember the birth more fondly in years to come. Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
cmc, she's just darling!
I'm so happy that our mommas and babies are healthy and safe at home. What wonderful blessings.
I was telling Andrew about Baby Tobias and Baby Chloe and he gave me a look. I asked him what was up and he said, "You think they'll get married, don't you?" It's so true - that's exactly what I was thinking. I can't help it, I'm Southern and Jewish, matchmaking is in my blood.
I'm 31+ weeks now and just got a negative fFN yesterday. That will take me well past the all-important 32-week milestone. Baby A is 3 pounds, 14 ounces and Baby B is 3 pounds, 11 ounces. They're both transverse and Baby A's head is kind of jammed in my hip. It's a weird feeling, especially since Aerin never did that (she mostly just kicked me in the groin). Carrying twins is so different than carrying a singleton that I almost feel like this is my first pregnancy. My perinatolotist informed me that I'm now bigger than the average singleton mom is at 40 weeks. I lost another 4 pounds, but the doctors say it's fine as long as the babies are growing. I'm still ravenous, but I get full very quickly. The ligament stretching and nerve pain are getting pretty intense.
The doctors are now saying that I have a good chance of making it past 36 weeks. They'll take the stitch out then and see what happens. Apparently, it's not a given that I'll immediately dilate and go into labor (I thought it was). They remove the stitch in an L&D OR as a precaution. No anesthesia, which I'm not especially looking forward to. I have mixed feelings about going so far. On the one hand, I want the twins to have as much time as possible in the womb. On the other hand, I really, really don't want to be pregnant anymore.
I'm also kind of freaking out about the strong possibility that they'll come home with me. This is week 11 of bedrest and I feel like there's so much to do. I'm nesting and I can't get up and it's driving me insane. We got the stroller, car seats, upstairs changing table (we just use the one on the Pack N Play downstairs), glider, My Brest Friend, and Hooter Hider. The only other major things we need are a Baby K'tan carrier and a crib. I had planned to get the same crib Aerin's in now, but of course it was discontinued. I'm putting them in the same crib for as long as I can, so the plan is to use Aerin's when she moves to a big-girl bed.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
If you feel big now, think how you'll feel at 36 weeks plus!
I know the "I'm done" feeling very well... I think I spent my last 10 visits last time asking how long until we could schedule my induction. Posted by PSI Teleport (Member # 5545) on :
Imogen, I'm glad you didn't have to have a cesarean. I'm jealous of your birthing options: to be able to have a midwife in the hospital. How cool is that? Like you said, the system worked like it was supposed to, and I wish I could have had that option. I wanted an all-natural, midwife "officiated" delivery, but I was nervous about being so far from the hospital, so I did it there. (In the end, it worked out, because my second wasn't breathing (but conscious) when born, had to be bagged, and had very low apgars. I don't know how they would have handled that at the birthing center, but I was glad to be in the safety of the hospital for that delivery!
re: syntocin. I'm assuming that's the same as pitocin, but I like your name for it better!
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
PSI - Yes, it did work well. The longer we are in the system, the more I realise how awesome it is. Very lucky indeed.
Yay, Mrs M on 31 weeks ad big healthy twins! My sympathies on your discomfort though.
(And I'm laughing at your matchmaking.... well, you never know...)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
syntocin is indeed the same as pitocin, I think it's a brand-name thing.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Yup. The real name is oxytocin; Pitocin and Syntocin are brand names. (So is Syntocinon.)
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Belly Shot! Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
Whoa! Now that's a belly. No wonder you're uncomfortable.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Mrs. M, you are HUGE! Or rather, just the right size.
And wow wow wow and congratulations on THIRTY ONE SOON TO BE THIRTY TWO WEEKS!!!!
There is not a party smiley happy enough to show how excited I am for you.
Posted by PSI Teleport (Member # 5545) on :
quote: Yup. The real name is oxytocin; Pitocin and Syntocin are brand names. (So is Syntocinon.)
Oh, see I always thought that oxytocin was the real, human-made deal and that pitocin was just the pharmaceutical knock-off. I assumed syntocin was the Aussie way of saying it.
ETA: Oh, I get it. We're saying the same thing. Oh, and for the record, if you don't get an IV when you deliver in the hospital, they give you a ginormous, horse-sized shot of pitocin in the thigh afterward. Like, for fun.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
For fun, or because your uterus was not contracting to their liking?
I got pitocin during labor but also got it after the 2nd and 3rd times to prevent me from, you know, bleeding to death (along with uterine massage) if my uterus didn't contract.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by PSI Teleport:
quote: Yup. The real name is oxytocin; Pitocin and Syntocin are brand names. (So is Syntocinon.)
Oh, see I always thought that oxytocin was the real, human-made deal and that pitocin was just the pharmaceutical knock-off. I assumed syntocin was the Aussie way of saying it.
ETA: Oh, I get it. We're saying the same thing. Oh, and for the record, if you don't get an IV when you deliver in the hospital, they give you a ginormous, horse-sized shot of pitocin in the thigh afterward. Like, for fun.
Oxytocin is oxytocin, whether it was made it your hypothalmus or a lab. Except in the first case, no one slaps a label on a vial of it saying "Pitocin" or "generic oxytocin" or whatever.
And most women do not need oxytocin post delivery unless they are not expelling the afterbirth properly, are bleeding excessively, or have a history of either of the above. (I have a history of the second, and oxytocin isn't much fun through an IV either. )
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Crazy biochemist side of me coming out- proteins made in the lab in a different organism then they originally are often labelled recombinant among scientist. While the amino acids are identical, there can be additional modifications which E. coli (for example) is not capable of making. Sometimes it matters, other times it doesn't, but native or recombinant is always indicated in the literature.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Since oxytocin is a very small peptide (wikipedia says nine amino acids long) with very little secondary structure, I doubt that's an issue.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
quote:Originally posted by rivka: Since oxytocin is a very small peptide (wikipedia says nine amino acids long) with very little secondary structure, I doubt that's an issue.
But if I did an experiment with it and published a paper, I would still list where the peptide came from. Like I said, me being very nitpicky.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I would hope you would. And not just whether it was synthetic, but the exact source. That's not because you expect differences; that because all potential variables must be listed in a legitimate scientific paper.
Enough people are convinced that "natural" = healthy, safer, etc. that I think it is important to point out that a synthetic compound is often completely indistinguishable from the natural one. If you took an unlabeled sample of natural oxytocin and one from your favorite lab, would you expect to be able to distinguish them in a mass spectrometer? Under an electron microscope?
In a patient?
Posted by theCrowsWife (Member # 8302) on :
When I worked in a dairy, we gave oxytocin shots to cows that wouldn't let down their milk (I believe the dose was 10cc per cow). Usually that was just for nervous young heifers, but some cows became addicted, and wore special leg bands indicating that they needed the oxytocin shot at every milking.
--
Oh, by the way, I'm joining this thread now. I'm at approximately 15 weeks, due May 26.
--Mel
Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
I need to stop reading this thread. Seeing all the beautiful babies and hearing all the stories makes me really want another baby. My baby is only 8 months old and I don't think my dh would even entertain another at this juncture... but your newborns are so adorable! I miss the sweet baby cuddles of that stage. Eliza simply wants to play all the time! I am pretty sure she thinks she is much too big to need a mommy cuddle anymore but I still sneak in a few baby cuddles now and then when she is sleepy.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Mel! Congratulations!
theresa, we have a 7 month old and we're not actively "trying" but we're not not trying, if you know what I mean... I know the feeling very well. It's not just seeing babies that makes me want another, we both decided before this one was born that we would be fine with a pregnancy any time after 6 months. No luck so far, but we're okay with that too.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
quote:Originally posted by rivka: I would hope you would. And not just whether it was synthetic, but the exact source. That's not because you expect differences; that because all potential variables must be listed in a legitimate scientific paper.
Enough people are convinced that "natural" = healthy, safer, etc. that I think it is important to point out that a synthetic compound is often completely indistinguishable from the natural one. If you took an unlabeled sample of natural oxytocin and one from your favorite lab, would you expect to be able to distinguish them in a mass spectrometer? Under an electron microscope?
In a patient?
With oxytocin, a difference would probably upset me greatly. But I do think I have been doing too much scientific writing lately.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Mel, congratulations! That's wonderful. I was getting a little nervous being the only pregnant lady here.
I really don't know if I'm done having babies. Andrew thinks he is, but I'm just not sure. I don't think I want to do fertility again, but apparently my chance of getting pregnant naturally is much higher than it was. So is my chance of having another set of multiples. My perinatologist gave me a look of shocked disbelief when I brought it up and made us promise to use birth control for at least a year (my cervix could not take another pregnancy before then). And while I adore babies, I hate being pregnant.
My doctor schedule is getting gruelling. I now see both my OB and perinatologist every week, as well as my weekly progesterone shot. I have to spend 15+ minutes at the perinatologist hooked up to fetal heartrate and contraction monitors. Getting both twins to stay on the monitors is not easy. One would drop off, then come back on, then the other one would drop off, then come back on, etc. The babies look perfect and I'm not even having minor contractions.
I chose a Hebrew name for Camille. I can't share it until after the naming, but it is in no way similar to her English name. It's a big weight off my mind, though.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Yay again Mrs M.
Our midwife was (jokingly) trying to convince us that we should aim to be pregnant again by next Christmas. I can fairly confidently state that barring unforeseen accidents, that is not going to happen.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yay Mrs. M! My kids all ran from the monitors all the time when I was pregnant, I can't imagine TWO active babies playing hide-and-seek. I'm glad they're well though!
Posted by Sachiko (Member # 6139) on :
Fantastic belly shot!
I love picking out names. It IS a load off.
I like having kids close together. It's harder the first year or two, but looking back, it seems like just one long pregnancy, with two kids to show for it.
My youngest is 18 months. I'm getting baby hungry too, listening to all the baby news.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm so hoping I'll be on this thread "for real" by next month. I doubt it but I can hope, right?
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Mrs M, it's Camille and what?
Posted by PSI Teleport (Member # 5545) on :
quote: For fun, or because your uterus was not contracting to their liking?
This is late, but the easy answer is: for fun. I got the shot two minutes after delivering, probably less. I mean, I delivered, they handed me the baby, I asked why she was blue, they whisked the baby away, and while they were bagging her Nurse Helga rolled me over and stabbed me in the thigh. I clearly remember frantically asking my husband, "Is she okay?" while getting the shot.
In our hospital, the rule is that every mother gets an IV, and nearly all of them get pitocin in the IV after delivering. The first is actually a rule, the second is just standard. They started pitocin in my IV almost immediately with my first child. I hated it. Those two things are part of the reason I really wanted a midwife. (I didn't know it at the time, but there was a far superior hospital choice a couple of miles away. I found out about the level of care there after I was done having kids. Darn it.) When I went in with my last child, I never got the IV. I almost delivered in triage, but got moved to a delivery room at the last minute, trying not to push, and in the hustle it got overlooked. When my doctor came in to triage before they moved me, she wondered aloud why I didn't have an IV, but then told the nurses not to worry about it. Not sure why; I assume it's because she knew me really well and knew that I deliver easily and in record time. She also knew I really hate any intervention at all.
At any rate, I never did get an IV, although I was told that if I didn't pee enough over the next 24 hours they would give me one. I did get the pitocin shot with little to no warning; it was purely preventative. I was so...not happy about that. But it was better than an IV. At least it was over with quickly. And there was the added benefit of the fact that getting poked with something post-delivery is almost negligible. At that point, you just don't care about jack anymore.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I had to have an IV with pitocin after delivering Duplo because I was bleeding a lot. I minded that much less than the uterine massage. OWWWW! I think that was the worst because I'd done a natural birth and thought I was done with the painful part.
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
I never had to have an IV unless I was going to have an epidural. With my second, I asked for the epidural, and THEN they started the IV drip, and it was still dripping while hubby was cutting the cord. She came fast.
Why do they require you to have a pitocin shot AFTER the delivery? Is it to help your uterus contract back to normal size? Seems like it does that on its own, unless there's something not working right and you need help. I really wouldn't like them just assuming I need a shot for my body to do what's supposed to happen naturally.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Needing a shot of pitocin is not uncommon, actually. And the potential risks -- I came closer than I like to remember to an emergency hysterectomy, and I was on iron pills for six months, so there was a LOT of blood loss -- are awfully high. I don't blame PSIT for being annoyed by their policy, but I can understand why a hospital might have it.
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
I know some people need it. I just hate when they force medical intervention on everyone when only some need it.
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
On a lighter note, hubby just sent me this link, and it had me laughing out loud - and this thread seemed like the perfect place for it.
Survey Fail Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I agree, I don't think it should be universal. It should be based on individual patient need and preference (after almost bleeding to death twice, I requested pitocin be continued after deliverly before I even went in the third time. Even though the placenta didn't shred this time, I felt much better knowing how much pitocin post-delivery helped me the second time. But, that was MY choice and I don't think it should be made for me, either way, without my knowledge and consent.)
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I had to choose pre-delivery whether to have syntocin (pitocin): I was always going to have it, given the potentially high rewards vs the low consequences.
If I had been in the birth centre, it would have been a shot. As it was, they just kept the drip going after labour.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I had pitocin after my first delivery, with the hyper-interventionist poopy-head back-up doctor, who waited about 10 seconds after the pit was administered and then yanked the placenta out by the cord.
With Charles my regular doctor was back (we told him he was on bedrest for the last month of my pregnancy so he couldn't hurt himself again and miss the delivery). He massaged my abdomen and let the placena come out in its own good time, while maintaining light tension in the cord. After about 20 minutes of that I wanted to say, "Give me the pitocin and get that thing out, I'm tired of this -- I've had the kid and I want to be done now." But I didn't. Since he was actually following the birth plan and all.
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Huh, weird. I don't think I had any pitocin after my delivery. Things were kinda crazy at that point, though, so I'm not sure I would have noticed if they gave me some in my IV. I'm with Brinestone on the Uterine Massage, though. HOLY COW that HURT!!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Uterine massage hurts. Having someone sit on your abdomen -- because the massage isn't doing enough -- hurts more.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Ow!!!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I think I said that.
Avoiding things like that is part of why some hospitals have this policy that has aroused so much ire. Predicting in advance who will need certain interventions is very difficult. This intervention is only slightly invasive, has fairly minor side effects, and saves lives, wombs, and blood supplies. Painkillers, too. I agree that patients should have options, but I can understand why a hospital might have the policy.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Okay, but how about informing patients and getting their consent first?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
What did you think all those admissions forms were FOR? Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I think everyone should just move to Richmond. Every single mom I know has had a great experience giving birth. I certainly have. Interestingly, everyone I know who had a baby in NYC had a horrible experience and many of the people I know in LA did, too.
Uterine massage is the worst. The name is very misleading.
My cervix is high and closed around the stitch. We decided to go ahead with the betamethasone shots, which I will be getting tomorrow and Thursday. Even though they're not effective past 34 weeks and I'm quite likely to go past that, it's much better to have them and not need them than need them and not have had them. They have to give them in L&D, but I don't have to stay overnight. I'm not looking forward to them - they're pretty nasty. Sort of like a tetanus shot, but worse. And I still have to get my progesterone shot on Thursday, which is also not a picnic. All totally worth it, though.
breyerchic, it's Leni Ann and Camille Victoria. Leni will be the one born first. I suspect that Baby A will be Leni and Baby B will be Camille, but you never know. I let y'all know the Hebrew names after the naming in the shul (it's very bad luck to say them before that).
I don't know if I've been thanking everyone for all the good wishes and prayers. They are so appreciated and help so much through the exhaustion and nerve pain and discomfort. Y'all are the best!
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Thank you, very cute names! Good luck.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:Originally posted by rivka: What did you think all those admissions forms were FOR?
Well, personally, when I sign them I cross out "c-section" and add "with verbal consent" before signing. They have to tell me everything they're putting in my body before I let them put it in. (This has saved me several times from being given something that's contraindicated because even a very good hospital loses track of my long list very quickly... I'm not looking forward to adding latex to the list!)
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I had to sign separate forms for each stage of my treatment - one set when I went up for the syntocin and epidural, another for the forceps (and possible c-section) and finally another when I was admitted into the post natal ward following birth.
My signature on the last form (post mega-epidural and pain killers) is decidedly wonky. I think I could make a good case that it wasn't actually me who signed it. Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Quick car seat question for kq - how thick can clothes be before they're unsafe for carseats? I bought a thick fleece footie/sleeper type thing for one of the babies and I don't know if it's safe. It's definitely not a snowsuit (not nearly as thick), but I'm nervous about it. Is there some sort of thickness guide? And what about those things where you can thread the seatbelt through it and zip it after you've buckled them in? Are those safe?
Even though we brought Aerin home in the winter, we only took her out for doctor appointments and we couldn't put her in cold weather clothes b/c of the apnea monitor. We used blankets and pre-warmed the car and ran with her from the car to wherever we were going. These babies will be out and about much more than Aerin and they won't have monitors, so I'm in new territory.
Maybe I should post this in the new babies thread, but I'm so tired.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Here's how to tell: Buckle the baby in without the fleece. Unbuckle without loosening the harness. Put the baby in the fleece and try to re-buckle. If you don't have to loosen the harness, it's safe.
Conversely, you can dress the baby in the fleece, buckle tightly, remove without loosening, undress the baby into just regular clothes, re-buckle, and if it doesn't need to be tightened, it's safe.
The ones that the harness threads through are NOT safe, unless they were supplied with the car seat (and I'd still be a bit leery in most cases.) The "shower cap style cover" does not touch the harness and is considered safe.
My personal preference is to buckle the baby snugly and tuck a quilt or blanket firmly around the baby. If desired you can then add a shower cap-style cover to shield from the wind.
Posted by Brinestone (Member # 5755) on :
I have a question too about car seats. I know you're supposed to put the "handle" of the baby seat in the down position when it's in the car. My question is, why? Is there risk the baby's head will hit it in a wreck? That it will hit the top of the car and jar the baby?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(How cold does it get where you are, though? You might not need all that. Warm-ish clothing and a blanket might be all you need. You know they say "what you'd be comfortable in, plus one thin layer" is what you should put on the baby. )
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
quote:Originally posted by Brinestone: I have a question too about car seats. I know you're supposed to put the "handle" of the baby seat in the down position when it's in the car. My question is, why? Is there risk the baby's head will hit it in a wreck? That it will hit the top of the car and jar the baby?
Actually, this is outdated and inaccurate advice.
New rule is "Follow the manufacturer's rule for handle usage."
Most companies now allow multiple positions, including most of them allowing straight up (including Graco. They allow the straight up position, or the two behind the seat; the only ones disallowed are the ones above the baby's head but not all the way up.) Some companies still require it down but some REQUIRE it to be UP. If you can't find this information in your manual, call the company for clarification or ask me and I'll find out for you.
The reason is that either it hasn't been tested in the other positions or it has been tested and has failed. So always read your manual.
Personally I have a Graco (though I'm getting rid of it-- hate infant carriers!) and after reading what some of the Graco engineers have to say about it and that most of them prefer to leave it up in the car, I usually leave it up when I use it (unless it's staying in the car; then I put it all the way down.)
In the past many weren't reinforced and could shatter in a crash. But now most are reinforced and having it up can actually in some cases provide some rollover and anti-rebound protection (again, varies by brand.) The reason Graco disallows the positions that are disallowed, I know, is the possibility of the baby's head being injured by the bar in a side-impact or a few other kinds of crash. However with it all the way up or in the allowed down positions that is not a danger either way, so again the key is to use any of the ALLOWED positions. All allowed positions are tested and safe.
Now, if the baby is not properly restrained, there have been some injuries from hitting a bar that is left up. However this will NOT happen in an unexpired, properly-cared-for seat in which the baby is properly secured and the harness is snug. And in those cases the baby may very well have just flown out and hit something else if the handle wasn't there to stop their movement.
If you'd like the rules for your specific seat, give me the brand and how old it is and I can get that information for you. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(I know this thread is derailment and question friendly but I'm thinking I should probably just start an "official carseat question thread" if no one objects.)
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I suspected the thread through ones weren't safe. I'll get the covers - those should be good.
It's in the 30s in the mornings here and the wind comes up from the lake and makes it even colder. We're supposed to have a very cold winter this year, with more snow than usual. We've already had near record temperatures. I'm just happy that the backseat of the wagon has its own vents.
The babies will be coming with me to take Aerin to school 2 days a week and speech 1 day (Andrew takes her the other 2 days). They'll be starting Eema & Me at about 4 weeks and they'll be coming to MyGym, too. Then there's shul on Saturdays (with babysitting!!). I'm so happy not to have another year of quarantine like we had with Aerin.
It's funny - my mother and grandmother are always worried that Aerin (and all babies really) are cold and I have the typical preemie mom fear of overheating. My mother-in-law once suggested space heaters when the heat went out in Aerin's room in our old house and I absolutely flipped out. Of course, that was because I was caring for a micropreemie and dealing with a weird heating problem (it was only out in Aerin's room) and there was a section on the dangers of space heaters in the preemie safety booklet I'd made for her.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I suspect it's generational. You would not believe the people who told me to cover my baby's head or she would get cold from the wind-- in Dallas, in August. The breeze was a nice relief! People would actually PULL OVER ON THE STREET to tell me this, and all were of prior generations.
In the case of 30 with a wind chill, I think you're probably right to want to shield them from the wind. The covers I linked to shield from wind really quite well and with warm layers and possibly a blanket on the coldest days should be perfect for you. Also with them being twins I'm sure it will take a little longer to get in and out, so it's good to have a little more warmth available.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
(Oh, and there are two or three other brands of shower cap-style covers on Target's site, that you might want to look at. As long as it only goes around the seat, not in it, you're good. Click on "bunting bags" on the "similar items" index and you'll get a whole bunch to wade through, but there are definitely 2 or 3 other brands that are safe that they carry. )
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: Most companies now allow multiple positions, including most of them allowing straight up (including Graco.
My Graco (made last fall) specifically said not to leave it in the straight up position (but to leave it in either of 2 lowest positions). The fireman who helped check the install said that, in a crash, the handles tend to collapse inward (towards the baby) when they're left above. It wasn't that big a deal to move the handle out of the way when putting it in and out of the car.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Our Graco Safeseat said to leave it in the straight up position. At the time we bought it (2 years ago) the salesperson said it was the only seat (including the other Gracos) that the bar was supposed to be up.
I'm not a big fan of the infant carriers, but in winter it is really nice to be able to strap the baby into the seat in the nice warm house, cover him up with his fleece cover and/or blankets, carry him out to the car and pop it into the base. If we had an attached garage, it wouldn't matter, but since we don't I'm hoping Charles doesn't get too heavy for the infant carrier until spring. Once it's not gettng down into the single digits we'll switch him to a convertible seat whether he's outgrown the carrier or not.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
The Graco Safeseat, since it was made, has always allowed either the all the way up or the all the way down position (but not the over the baby's head ones.)
Quite frankly, salespeople don't always know everything about what they're selling (there were other seats that allowed the handle up 2 years ago, including the Graco SnugRide.)
ludosti, what kind of seat did you have? Because I KNOW that the all the way up position is allowed on every U.S. Graco seat made for the past four or five years.
Also, I would encourage everyone to make sure that the firefighter installing their seat is a certified technician before letting them install or give advice. Not every firehouse has a tech and in some areas they will install seats without a tech present, which does not always lead to best practice or current information being dispensed. They mean well but don't always do as well as they could. And, everyone should read their instructions. Always. The instructions trump anything you are told by a tech, firefighter, nurse in the hospital, or anyone else, unless the company has specifically clarified something after printing the manual or given you permission to do something not in the manual.
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Kq - We had (well, still have it, but don't use it anymore) one of the SnugRide ones. It says in the manual that when used in the car, the handle should be at one of the 2 positions farthest back. It occurs to me that perhaps we're interpreting "all the way up" differently. In my mind "all the way up" is with the handle up in carrying position ("all the way up" being roughly perpendicular to the seat), but perhaps you're thinking of "all the way up" as highest up the carseat.
It's really frustrating to me that it is difficult to find a certified technician. The websites that list certified technicians is woefully out of date and, like kq said, not every firehouse has a certified tech. We ended up going to the carseat installation clinic that our hospital promoted (which was staffed by firefighters), since I couldn't find a tech in our city. I didn't think to ask if the ones there that day were certified (since his installation jived with my understanding of the manual). I took his anecdotal evidence (about the handles collapsing inward) as just that - an anecdote.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
ludosti, that's very odd. I have a SnugRide made the same time and it specifically allows the handle to be in either of the two all the way back positions OR all the way up. Graco has also clarified that SnugRide handles after a certain date can be up.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
My manual said the same thing ludosti's did. (Snugride bought at Target 12/07.)
Doesn't matter anyway--it was no big deal to put it down. And he's in a convertible now, anyway.
I'm getting Nathaniel a carseat poncho for Christmas. Thanks for the recommendation, kq! I hate all of the coat on/ coat off/ coat on maneuvers, especially in the morning. (Obviously the poncho is actually for me! )
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I need carriers with twins, especially if I'm alone with all 3 kids (which will be 5 days a week). One of the only benefits of having small babies is that they don't outgrow things as quickly. Aerin was in her Bumbo seat until well over a year, for example, and it was so helpful. I think I'm going to get the twins Radians when they finally do outgrow the carriers. We have what we call Britax thrones (Decathtalon and Diplomat) for Aerin and they're just so wide. She hated the car for such a long time that I wanted to get her the most comfortable (and safest, of course) car seat available and the Britaxes look like easy chairs. I'm hoping that the twins aren't weirdos like their sister and like the car enough that we can get normal-sized seats.
I'm at 33 weeks today. I had my weekly NST (non stress test) and the babies are great and I'm not having contractions. I had a precautionary course of bethmethasone last week and it was pretty yukky. Aside from the searing pain and lasting ache, I had a little bit of a reaction. The babies slowed way down in their movements and I had a couple of other warning signs, so my OB checked me and sent me right to the perinatologist. The babies were fine and they were back to their fiesty selves the next day.
Today is Aerin's due date and the day we brought her home from the PICU. It's always an emotional day for me, but it's even more bittersweet this year. I'm thrilled that the twins are making it this far, but the farther they go, the sadder I feel for Aerin. I wish we could have known during her pregnancy what we know now.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
33 weeks! Yay, that is great!
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
(((Mrs M)))
Well done on 33 weeks. Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I've been thinking about you and the twins and wondering how things have been going. I'm so glad to hear that things are still going well!! I'm sorry that Aerin didn't make it this far, but she is a wonderful little girl who has done really well. Thinking of her in her bumbo made me smile - Beanie still fits in her bumbo and turns 1 next week.
Posted by theCrowsWife (Member # 8302) on :
First ultrasound today. Everything looks good, development matches the estimated due date, and baby was very cooperative in positioning, so we now know that it's a boy .
--Mel
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
congrats!!!
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Mel, that's so exciting! Hooray!
ludosti, have you used the Bumbo tray? They didn't have them for Aerin, but I'm sure going to get them for the twins. It would have been so useful, too.
I got some very exciting news at the OB today. Since I'll be 34 weeks on Monday, I'll be upgraded (downgraded?) from bedrest to restricted activity! That means I can go up and down the stairs more than once per day and I can go out every other day or so. I am so happy. This is especially welcome since Aerin is on winter break starting Monday - I can take her to the gym and spend more non-couch time with her before the babies arrive. I can even go to shul, which Aerin and I have especially been missing.
I get my stitch out on Jan. 5th, which is Aerin's first day back at school. Andrew's birthday is the 9th. My C-Section is being scheduled (scheduled!?!) for the 12th, which is the first day of the VCU spring semester. Everything seems to happen all at once in our family.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Wow, Mrs. M, that's awesome! We always seem to have so much going on when a baby is coming, too, I think it's universal. Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I'm so glad to hear that things are continuing to go well for you and the twins!! We've been using the bumbo and tray at grandma's house - it's great for putting toys on (or, in Beanie's case, pushing them off).
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Big news, literally. The babies are huge! Baby A is 5 pounds, 9 ounces! Baby B is 5 pounds, 2 ounces! I don't know how this happened, because I've lost 5 pounds since the babies were measured last. My NST was great and the babies are perfect. I asked Dr. Chistmas how this happened and he explained that we think of twins as small because they are more likely to be growth restricted, but they aren't always. Obviously mine aren't. I'm in shock. I was hoping they'd be around 5 pounds when they're born. Dr. Christmas says they should gain about 1.5 more pounds each in the next 3 weeks. I actually said to him, "But I'm so small." He laughed at me and pointed to Andrew and said, "Yeah, but he's not." He assured me that I'll stretch as much as I need to. I can't believe I have almost 11 pounds of babies inside me.
I'm scheduled for 12:30 on January 12th.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Woo-hoo! You're gonna have nice big babies! And so soon! Are you in shock frantically trying to get stuff ready?
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Mrs. M.! Wow! Thassa lotta baby!
Hope you're enjoying your new walking around privileges!
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Well done Mrs M! Great growing. Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I was going to say something about ultrasound measurments of weight being usually inaccurate, but I bet a perinatologist is better at it than the average doctor. I don't think I've ever met anyone whose estimate of how big the baby supposedly was going to be at birth was accurate to within a pound.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Nathaniel was estimated at 5 lb. 1 oz. on 12/3 and was born at 5 lb. 0 oz. on 12/7. The estimate was by the sonogram tech at the maternal fetal specialist.
Since he was born, I've heard lots of stories of estimates being wayyyyyy off, though...maybe, as you said, experience is the difference?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by dkw: I was going to say something about ultrasound measurments of weight being usually inaccurate, but I bet a perinatologist is better at it than the average doctor. I don't think I've ever met anyone whose estimate of how big the baby supposedly was going to be at birth was accurate to within a pound.
My OB was amazingly on target with the first two -- and waaaay off with the third. In her defense, the estimate on the third was based on measurements taken when the baby was already largely obscured by the pelvis, and was not the purpose of the ultrasound at all.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
The babies are definitely getting bigger - my skin is stretched so much that I'm getting little tears that are bleeding. My stretch marks are a horrible dark purple. None of my maternity clothes fit. They're still managing to move around constantly, though. I don't understand how they have the room. The next 2 weeks can't go by fast enough for me.
BTW, what did y'all bring to the hospital that you ended up not needing and what do you wish you'd brought that you didn't? I have a list, but it'll be nice to compare, just in case.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I never got around to watching the movies I brought for AFTER labor (I did watch some during labor, but afterward I either had the tv on and zoned in front of the Discovery channel, or didn't have it on at all.) I never brought books after the first time. No concentration. I did like having music, even after delivery, so mp3 player or cd player might be a good idea. I wanted to have the laptop (lol, I'm an addict) but it was out for repairs just then. Camera a definite must. Also nursing nightgown (or some prefer pj pants-- maternity-- and a top, but after a c-section I'd definitely prefer a nightgown) because I'm much comfier in my own clothes after the first day, sleep nursing bras, bathrobe (it always seems the hospital is either icy or broiling), flip flops (if you plan to shower) and comfy slippers for walking around the room and to the nursery for supplies and whatever. Also fuzzy socks, I cannot go to the hospital without my fuzzy socks. I prefer striped.
I loved having my sling this time, but with twins and a section, probably not so much. Also, our hospital does not supply pacifiers. If yours does, you don't need those, but since mine doesn't I bring my own. With twins I would even-more-so want them, because two of my 3 babies have had VERY strong sucking needs and the first few days especially, my nipples needed a break. Last time I brought the RazBaby Keep-It-Kleen paci and it was a real lifesaver because when I'm tired I drop stuff a lot.
And, I prefer to go home in my own panties and pads, the hospital ones wiggle too much. I wear them in the hospital, but bring my own favorite pads and a pair of large panties for going home. I usually go home in a nursing top and a pair of maternity jeans or pants.
Posted by theCrowsWife (Member # 8302) on :
I will definitely bring books this time. Last time, I didn't bring any, thinking that I would pass the time by crocheting. I didn't realize that the IV would be in my hand, or that it would stay in well after the birth. I still managed to crochet some, but it was pretty uncomfortable.
--Mel
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Both times we were released early, so I never used the books or DVDs I brought along. I was very glad to have my own clothes, though -- I changed into yoga pants and an oversized T-shirt almost right away. And both times I brought a pack of cheap cotton undies so I didn't have to wear the hideous mesh disposable ones the hospital provides.
We never did use the massage implements or most of the labor aides we brought along, even though I did natural childbirth both times. The first time I had hideous back labor and just wanted Bob's first planted as hard as he could push in the small of my back. The second time it was so fast and so intense (1.5 to 10 cm in an hour) that I didn't want anyone to touch me at all. Bob tried to rub my shoulders a couple times, but I kept saying "please don't touch me."
I snuck apple juice boxes in the second time (against hospital policy) and was so glad I did. The nurse caught me drinking one, but she didn't say anything. And later she actually asked if I needed a sip of juice. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Oh, we brought snacks and drinks "for KPC" but I ended up having some too. They looked the other way because they knew I was gonna do it anyway. Best not to do that before a c-section, though.
But one thing we have done the last two times that was inspired was to have sippy cups, juice, and snacks, along with books and quiet toys (such as puzzles) for the older one(s) to use when they visited. My mom suggested it and it was a very good idea.
I want to leave early next time. I think I will ask to leave after one night. I am developing allergies to so many things the hospital was even more miserable last time (I am apparently now allergic to the hospital's pillows. Boy was I glad I had brought mine. Oh! There's another one!)
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Some things on my list (not already included in this forum):
-extension cord -cell phone charger -Baby K'tan (the only sling that carries twins - up to 10 lbs. each) -My Brest Friend -Halo swaddlers for the babies -Hooter Hider (I want to get used to using it while I have a lactation nurse to help me)
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
The best thing we had was a pizza, brought in by my brother about 3 hours after delivery. By then I hadn't eaten for about 24 hours (wasn't hungry when I was in natural labour, then after the epidural got put in and I *was* hungry, I wasn't allowed to eat...), and the hospital food was gross. Fresh pizza on the other hand... (even the midwife had some!).
Powerade/Gatorade was fantastic, but I'm not sure what you'll be allowed with c-section. Though I did drink it the next day too, and really found it useful.
Changes of clothes and underwear - I went through so many pairs! I think I brought 5 spares, and used them all. And a nice comfy dressing gown.
We didn't have a tv, so no DVDs, and I wasn't up to reading books (we were only in for 24 hours after the birth anyway) but I did send Tony to the hospital newsagent for some trashy magazine - which were just what I felt like reading.
Oh - Lip Balm! My lips were so dry and cracked.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I second the lip balm (also hand lotion) and your own pillows.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I just remembered besides the pillows I brought my comfy afghan that I love. I didn't mind their blankets on the bed but I liked to have something really snuggly for when I was sitting in a chair.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
And if you bring your own pillows put a bright or patterned pillowcase on them so that it will be obvious which ones you brought in and you're less likely to overlook them when you're leaving.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*nods* I used navy blue.
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
They got bigger. A lot bigger.
A is 6 lbs, 15 ounces and B is 6 lbs, 4 ounces. Heartbeats are great and they're moving like champs. A is breech and B is transverse, so they're in a kind of upside L shape. That should be fun for Dr. Davis. I'm not having any contractions at all, which is unbelievable. I didn't even get above double digits during my NST today.
They'll be here at this time next week. I can't wait to see them, but I am also really can't wait to not be pregnant anymore. Everytime I see one of my doctors, I have this urge to scream, "Get them out now!" I heroically restrain myself, though.
We got the crib mattress, which was the last essential we needed. We do need to get a diaper champ for upstairs, but we could make do in a pinch. It's funny - they don't have Diaper Champs in any of the Targets or Wal-Marts in Richmond, but they all have plenty of Diaper Genies. Andrew found one at Toys R Us, but didn't buy it for some reason.
I also made a fantastic discovery. Regular underwear that is 4 sizes bigger than I usually wear is much more comfortable (not to mention cheaper and prettier) than maternity underwear. The maternity panties do fit my stomach, but they're baggy everywhere else, which is a new level of discomfort that I was not familiar with. I got a couple of pairs of the regular panties at Target on a whim and I went back the very next day after trying them on at home and got 12 more pairs (I always like to have a 2-week supply). I'm getting pretty annoyed at how much I'm outgrowing my maternity clothes. They need to make special lines for multiple moms. The stomach part keeps riding up over my tummy panel and that's not something I want visible to the public.
In other news, my rings still fit. I attribute this to the 80 ounces of water I drink each day, which also kept the fluid up for the babies.
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
Mrs. M, don't feel too bad. With my third and fourth children, I outgrew my maternity clothes in the eighth month. And they were singles. You're not alone.
Those sizes are great. Baby A is as big as my son was (#3) when he was born, right on time. And I know how you feel about not being able to do it any longer. At least you know how much longer you have!
Good luck!!!
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
What big babies! That is amazing, Mrs M.
Hang in there. I am looking forward very much to meeting the babies (electronically,at least).
Edit - I have a clothes complaint too. I now weigh 10 kg less than I did before I conceived (yay breastfeeding and healthy eating!), which is great. However, some of the clothes that fit me then still don't fit me now, because of my remaining belly. Silly changed body shape.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Mrs. M, it will be over soon! I have a friend who had twins and got huge with them. What she ended up wearing was regular maternity tops, a size too big, with a clip in the back of the neck to hold up the shoulders, plus a camisole for modesty at the neckline, plus a Bella Band for modesty where it would ride up at the bottom. Ay. I can't imagine, as someone who hates layers, but that's what worked for her.
Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
Thanks for the update! Hooray babies!
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I had to wear a camisole under my giant shirt to shul today, which drove me nuts. I let the shoulders bunch, which was super attractive. My skirts are okay, but my pants are not. I have no idea what I'm going to wear to the naming.
My ankles and feet have exploded. It's scary - they're so puffy that they're almost unrecognizable. I can't imagine what they'd be like if I didn't drink 80 oz of water per day. I couldn't walk yesterday, they got so bad. My hands are fine, though - my rings still fit. We have a good blood pressure cuff in the house, so I'm monitoring just in case.
Everything is ready. We got the last Diaper Champ in Richmond (seriously - I called every store that would possibly sell them). The washable things are washed and the nursery is all set up. I picked out Aerin's clothes for the next 2 weeks and I just have to iron them. Her big sister shirt is ready to go, but I haven't chosen what bottoms I want to go with is. I want to get the car washed, but I think I might have to hand that off. I know this is all stupid little unimportant stuff, but I'm in hyper-nesting mode and I'm compulsive to begin with.
My hormones are going crazy and I'm starting to freak out a little.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Oh, it's getting so close!! I'm very excited for you all. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I'm freaking out for you and I'm not even pregnant! Or there!
Posted by breyerchic04 (Member # 6423) on :
Mrs M has babies!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I was JUST going to post, "Everyone who friended Kira on Facebook go check it out!!!"
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Oooh, I will!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Dang, I don't have her friended, but I'm so glad to hear she has babies!!! I hope everything went really well and that everyone is happy and healthy! Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
For those of us who haven't friended, is there any more info or just that she had the babies?
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
At this stage, just that she had the babies. Posted by Liz B (Member # 8238) on :
I'm so excited. I thought that today was the day...
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
We're all home and healthy! Everything went pretty smoothly and my recovery is coming along really well. Being a term twin mom is easier than being a singleton preemie mom, which is a pleasant surprise!
Camille is getting home phototherapy, but that should be discontinued by Monday. They're creeping back toward their birth weights. Nursing is going fantastically. Neither of them has a problem latching, which is awesome. They both tend to conk out, but we're working on it. They both hate the football hold, so we're not feeding together yet. We tried a cross cradle, but the one on top (I can't remember who it was) kicked the other one too much.
It turns out they might be identical! We're going to have to send away for a DNA test if we want to find out (which we do). Everyone has a different opinion, so I'm interested in what y'all think.
I'll post more after Shabbos (and the naming).
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
THEY'RE BEAUTIFUL!!! Congratulations! Identical! Wow! That's exciting to think of. Upon looking at them I'm leaning very, very slightly toward "not identical" but it's hard to tell.
I always had to tickle my babies' feet to keep them awake while eating the first few weeks.
I hear nursing twins gets MUCH easier once they can sit up.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Congratulations Mrs M!
They are just gorgeous.
I also have to tickle Toby sometimes when he gets lazy during a feed. As well as the feet, stroking his ears and cheeks works well.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yes, not too far down on the cheeks though. But up near their forehead, they like that. (It's what my mom calls a "regulating activity." OT speak for "it calms them down and makes them focus" apparently. )
Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
Congratulations! Your twins are absolutely gorgeous!
Posted by Lissande (Member # 350) on :
I think I need twins now. Beautiful girls, Mrs M!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
What beautiful little girls! I'm glad to hear everything is going well!
Posted by JennaDean (Member # 8816) on :
Congratulations! They're beautiful. My son said, "They're so little!" Just as I was thinking they were really pretty big (for twins). And such gorgeous pink cheeks.
How old is Aerin now?
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Thanks, y'all. It's hard to believe they're a week old already. It feels like they've been here forever. We had a much better night last night.
Camille's bili count was down yesterday, finally. I'm really looking forward to a wireless baby. I did nurse both of them for 45 minutes together 2 nights ago. I invented a postion that I call 1:00 a.m Desperation. They have turned into milk junkies since my milk came in. Speaking of which - holy smokes! It just keeps coming.
I'll try to post the birth story sometime this week. It was very surreal (don't let me forget to tell y'all about Dr. Shrek) and I apparently don't remember parts of it.
BTW, the reason they can't tell if they're identical or not is b/c the placentas were fused and both girls have the same blood type. And they look a lot alike. I don't have any trouble telling them apart, but that's kind of my job.
Technically Aerin turned 3 in September, but her due date was 12/15, so it's only been a month.
Posted by Katarain (Member # 6659) on :
Congratulations!
Names?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Leni Ann and Camille Victoria.
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
quote:Originally posted by Mrs.M: . I invented a postion that I call 1:00 a.m Desperation.
I've invented several positions born of desperation - and I only have the one to deal with!
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
If I hadn't banned picture taking while nursing my mom would have had several hilarious pictures of me surrounded in a pile of pillows nursing both boys in the first few weeks after Charles was born. It's easier when one of them is older, though -- you can stack 'em.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
First appointment today! I had been told that the first ultrasound was at the 2nd appt, but we didn't even need to beg for one today. Maybe it is because of that "advanced maternal age" thing. I will also get an u/s at the next visit. I will have two u/s with a perinatologist. The u/s video will be up on YouTube tonight, hopefully.
With our boys the heart rate was in the 150s. This baby's heart rate was 171. Chant with me: "girl, girl, girl". Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Good luck Mama. I'm sending girl vibes your way. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Girl, girl, girl, girl!
If it is, I have hand-me-downs for you...
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Here's hoping your adorable boys will all get to be the protective older brothers to a sweet little girl! Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
I'm thinking pink, Mama!
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
When are you due, Mama Squirrel? Chloe's heart rate was up in the 170's... and this one's in the 150's (and he's a boy)... I'm chanting mentally for you!!! : )
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
That old wive's tale works perfectly for me....son was in the 140's, daughter in the 160's. So here's hoping it works for you, too! Girl! Girl! Girl!
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
I am due 1/8. It seems so far away from now, but I know it will be here before we know it.
Apparently I am elderly, not just advanced age. Below is a direct quote on my referral to the perinatologist.
quote:Reason for Referral: Elderly Multigravd-antep
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Mrs.M, did you ever find out if the twins were identical or not?
Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
They're for sure not identical. We didn't need a DNA test. They're so different-looking now that they almost don't even look like sisters. We joke that they're a study in genetics - Leni got Andrew's drop of Asian blood and Cammie got my drop of Irish blood (and Aerin looks completely German, btw).
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
Wow - you're right.
My two nieces don't look at all like sisters either. You'd never put them in the same family.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Leni looks more Asian then my quarter-Asian daughter (who has no Chinese in her features at all except when she throws temper tantrums, then a few people claim they can see it- but no matter what, she is going to spend a huge amount of time saying, my grandfather is chinese- hence the last name and he picked out the middle name too. It means sophisticated and well mannered)
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Your girls are so gorgeous, Mrs M.
I think Toby may have picked up on the very slight asian drop in my gene pool. He is (I think!) 1/32 Chinese... but he seems to have a slight tilt to his eyes that the otherwise German/Irish/Scots/Australian bloodline doesn't explain.
I received a belly pic from my SIL today. She is 7w1d ahead of me. I am bigger than she is! I will be 12 weeks on Friday. There is no way I could have waited until then to tell my boss. I look like I am 5 months pregnant.
I usually wait until the 5th month to have Pop take monthly pics of my belly for the baby photo album, but I think I will have to have him start at 3 months this time.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Beautiful baby pictures!
And Toby looks so grown up!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
What adorable little babies!
MrsM - I love how gorgeous each of the twins are and how different they look. I also love that play mat! Do you remember where you got it?
Toby is going to be such a heartbreaker!
Mama Squirrel - It's always been interesting to me how differently everyone "pops" and how it can be so different from pregnancy to pregnancy. In some ways I was a little sad that I didn't look pregnant until I was 6-7 months along (but I'm sure that's because I'm overweight), but that just meant I didn't need to wear maternity clothes for as long (since I had a hard time finding ones to fit right). Posted by Mrs.M (Member # 2943) on :
Mama S. have you shown earlier with each of your pregnancies? I've heard this is almost always the case. I don't really have accurate first-hand experience since I was a land monster with the twins. At least you'll get more use out of your maternity clothes (was how I tried to look at it). I can't wait to hear what you've got in there.
scholarette, it's so funny how the genes come out. One of my best college friends is 100% Korean and married a blue-eyed, blonde of German descent. Their little girl has Korean features and blonde hair, which is a mix you wouldn't think would work, but she is so gorgeous.
imogen, he does have that Eurasian look. I don't think I noticed it before. That might be my favorite picture of him ever.
ludosti, I got the mat at One Step Ahead. Aerin likes to chew on the borders, so I'm going to have to replace those soon. Otherwise it's been fantastic.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
Mrs.M, I am sure I did show earlier each time. It just seems so much more dramatic this time. I was concerned about twins, but there is only one, unless there is another one hiding directly behind the one we saw.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Did you find out what you're having, Mama Squirrel? (it's very possible i'm missing it if you typed it OR that i'm missing it that you're not finding out sex until the baby's born...)
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
Well, I am only 14 weeks today, so it is a bit early. I did have two u/s this week. One was on Monday with the OB. The other was on Tuesday with the perinatologist. Everything looks good.
This time the heart beat was only 153. The first visit with u/s had a heart beat of 171. So much for the old wive's tale.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
My next u/s is with the perinatologist on 8/18. Hopefully the baby will cooperate and let us see the sex then.
Posted by Christine (Member # 8594) on :
quote:Originally posted by Mama Squirrel: Well, I am only 14 weeks today, so it is a bit early. I did have two u/s this week. One was on Monday with the OB. The other was on Tuesday with the perinatologist. Everything looks good.
This time the heart beat was only 153. The first visit with u/s had a heart beat of 171. So much for the old wive's tale.
Don't lose hope! My son's HB was around 140 and my daughter's 150-160, so higher but not outrageously.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
My girls have all usually hovered in the 130-150 range. Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
25 weeks today. 15 more to go.
I have been taking a nap every day for the last two weeks. I am not looking forward to working full days again next week, but I really need to. For those who don't know I spent the day in the ER on the 13th and was diagnosed with pneumonia. I have lost 5 lbs since then (at least as of a couple days ago). I am looking forward to food sounding good to me again, and not coughing so much too.
How are the rest of our pregnant ladies doing? Who else is there?
My SIL has been in the hospital for 3 weeks. Her water broke at 29 weeks. They have her on antibiotics, steroids and magnesium. They are hoping she will make it 3 more weeks.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I've been wondering how you were, Mama. Good luck with next week!
Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Me too, Mama.
I hope next week goes as well and as easily as it can do.
(And I hope your boys aren't *too* boisterous for you... )
Posted by PSI Teleport (Member # 5545) on :
Wow, Mama. What do they do once the water breaks? I know it replenishes itself, but I can't see how there can still be significant fluid around the baby.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Glad you're on the mend, Mama Squirrel!
I'm still here - 35 weeks today... Pretty uneventful for the most part. I failed my 1 hr glucose test, but passed the 3 hr so well (if that's the right way to put it) that my Doc said I probably had fasted for too long the first time around so my liver started kicking out sugar... I broke my hand two weeks ago, so that's made things exciting with the baby that's already here... ; ) It's gotten me out of dishes and poopy diapers for a little while, though... ; )
Ultrasound next Monday to check growth and to make sure he's doing practice breathing and all that... Hopefully he is bc he's already dropped and all signs are pointing to him getting here a little bit early...
Wow... glad she's held on this long - that's not a fun way to spend the end of your pregnancy. Hope the little one can hang out in there for a few more weeks, and she doesn't get cabin fever!!! : )
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
Last time they tested there was no amnio fluid in there. I guess as long as the baby is not in distress they still want him to stay in there.
Sorry to hear about your hand cmc. Hopefully it will be better before the baby makes his appearance.
I see the OB tomorrow and get the orders for the 1 hr glucose test. I see the perinatologist on the 13th for an u/s to check the growth.
I am feeling well enough to go back to the gym tonight. If I feel really good I might even go back to spin class, but for now I plan on just spending some time on the recumbent bike.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
How's your sister-in-law, Mama Squirrel?
Cast comes off in one week... That would put him at 37 wks... I think it would be wonderful if he comes anytime after that! : )
How'd you do on the 1 hr (if you took it yet)? A good friend of mine is also pregnant right now and due 11/29. She failed the test and has been on a diet and even is to the point of having to take insulin once a day. I never realized how 'bad' it could be... I took for granted that worst case you'd just have to watch what you eat a little bit... I'm hoping you pass with flying colors!
Ultrasound was pretty cool today! They did the 3D and then did 4D, which is watching the baby in 3D live. Strange, but totally cool... He's measuring (as close as the ultrasound can tell you, anyway) about 6 lbs. That would put him on track to be about the same size as Chloe, who was born at 7lbs, 20in. The tech told me that most babies are around 8lbs now, so they're on the small side. I think they're just right... ; ) We go back next Tuesday to check how things are moving along... : ) Oh - he's head down but not all the way down. He's dropped, but I guess he's got more to drop...
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
She is hanging in there. They have her c-section scheduled for 10/15, assuming nothing changes between now and then. I think that is still 5 weeks before her due date.
I found out yesterday that I passed the 1 hr glucose test. I failed the 1 hr and 3 hr with my first two pregnancies. I had different doctors for each of those pregnancies. For the first one I was told by the endochrinologist (named Dr. Donner ::snicker:: ) to do the Atkin's diet. The second pregnancy I was sent to a nutritionist who put me on a diabetic diet. Honestly, the Atkin's diet was a lot easier to follow.
I have an u/s next Tuesday. I think they might even do the 3D this time.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
Well, things changed, but I don't know what made the change happen. Anyway, they now will do the c-section no later than Friday morning. I will have a new nephew today or tomorrow.
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
She just posted that she is being prepped now. Baby coming today!!!
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
I hope everything goes as well as possible for them! Congrats on your new nephew!
I hope you and cmc are doing well also!
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
Baby Frank was born yesterday evening. He is 4 lbs. 15 oz. and 16 1/2". He is breathing on his own. My SIL is doing well.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Just saw this - hope everyone's still doing okay! : )
I have an appt tomorrow, too, Mama Squirrel. Hope yours goes well - and that they do the 3D. It's pretty cool... : )
Posted by Mama Squirrel (Member # 4155) on :
I had the u/s this morning. She is still a girl. She is also now head down. Yay baby!!! All looks good. The perinatologist doesn't need to see me again.
My SIL went home yesterday. From FB yesterday: "Frankie is doing great! He just needs to get more mature and bigger so he can come home and meet his sister!!"
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Hooray for still being a girl AND being head down... : )
I had an appt today - he's all the way down and I've started to thin and dilate... I go back next wk for the regular appt and an u/s. I mean - I'm not complaining about having an ultrasound again... I just think it's funny that it's because he's 'small'. Chloe, about a year ago, was the same size. And got a whole bunch of ultrasounds because they were worried she was too BIG. I don't get it?
Also - my strep b came back positive. Which, for some reason, makes me feel like I did something wrong or something. I just hope nothing comes of it in the long run... I don't even really understand what it is or anything, even though the doc AND the nurse explained it to us and I looked it up. Not cool.
Glad to hear everyone's doing well!!! : )
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Yay on things continuing to go well. On the strep B thing - all it really means is that you are a carrier. It is a relatively common thing (between 15% and 40% of healthy adult women are). It can cause infections (both of mom and baby), some of which can be life-threatening to the baby if it gets GBS disease (sepsis, pneumonia, menengitis, in addition to other problems). Only .5-1% of babies whose mothers test positive get sick (so the risk is low), but the prevention - giving mom IV antibiotics during labor - is a very simple thing. So, don't worry about it. You didn't do anything wrong and it's really not a big deal. Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
Not a big thing at all. And an IV at/during labour is fine- and if you want to go drug free, they time it so it stops way before you need to be moving/walking/pushing if that's what you want.
Edit - that is to say, scary as the idea is, it's treated quite easily. And won't interfere with whatever birth plans you have.
Posted by dabbler (Member # 6443) on :
And they don't treat it earlier because they don't want you to get reinfected.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Thanks for the reassurance, guys. I guess I just made the mistake of reading things on-line... Nothing like a little worst case scenario to get into your mind, right? ; ) I just keep telling myself that if I'm a carrier, I was most likely a carrier with Chloe and didn't do anything so...
I'm totally going with the iv antibiotics... Still feeling good - two weeks and one day until his due date!
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I was GBS+ with both pregnancies. My second labor was so fast that they didn't get the IV in in time for the antibiotics to be effective, but we were fine.
Posted by cmc (Member # 9549) on :
Kellum King was born at the stroke of midnight! 6lbs 10.5oz, 19.5 inches.
We had a little scare with the cord being really tight around his neck. Doc had to have me stop pushing and cut it off of him while he was still in there... NICU came to the room and got him going after he was code blue... He got going pretty well, though, and was still able to stay with us.
We're loving him up - he got a clean bill of health from the pediatrician this morning! : )
Posted by ludosti (Member # 1772) on :
Congratulations!! I'm glad to hear that such a scary thing turned out just fine.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Comes in, looks around, falls asleep. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Posted by Valentine014 (Member # 5981) on :
*strolls in and passes out next to scholarette*
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Yeah! Good not to be all alone in here. Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Ten weeks to go for me! It feels good to have hit 30 weeks and start the single digit countdown for weeks left.
I feel like I've been pregnant FOREVER!
Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
I have my first ultrasound and Drs visit this afternoon. As the time gets closer, I am getting more nervous. I just wish it was here so I could see that everything was alright. I don't have any reason to think it won't be but that nagging worry is getting to me.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
And you think you'll have less nagging worry after the baby comes?
Um . . . I have bad news.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Just wait until you get to the ultrasound and your dr says, um, let's wait on due dates and stuff for two weeks. Just to be one the safe side. Everything worked out fine, but long two weeks. I also get an ultrasound at my next appt too (checking on the apple sized cyst and doing a doppler to check composition).
Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
I do find I worry less once they get here. I have a 2 year old already. I spent a lot of time teaching preschool and things so I think I tend to see kids as pretty resilient. Pregnancy though turns me into a huge worry wart until I get to feel the baby kick.
The appointmet went well. I am due October 21st and baby is measuring right on schedule with a strong heart beat.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Everyone's different, I guess. I always worried less when they were inside, where I knew exactly where they were.
Then again, I have teenagers.
Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
I think its the teenager part! I still don't have to let mine out of sight.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I am due Oct 19th, so we'll be right there together. My dr likes the first appt at 6 weeks though. Based on my cycle (vs generic statistical cycle), my due date should be Oct 20. At first appt, measured for Oct 19. At second, I measured for Oct 16. Based on first day of last menstrual it would have been Oct 9th. So it should be interesting to see what's accurate.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I am so much worse at the whole pregnancy this time around. First time I worried and wondered and obsessed. This time, I have to think about it when people ask me how far along I am. I haven't signed up for one of those developmental update e-mails or anything like that. I am mostly unconcerned and apathetic. Like last time, I was so excited and anxious for every doctor appt. This time, it is like, dang it- I had better plans. I am possibly more nesty though- I recently painted my daughter's room, made her curtains and I am excitedly shopping for a new bed for her. Her current bed is the transformed crib so I will eventually start setting up the nursery. I need to buy shelves so I have a place to move everything and the best time to buy furniture is in july. I also will need to buy a new carseat, but I am waiting on that too- no hurry. I also am fine taking all the pills on my dr's approved list- last time I felt horribly guilty every time I took anything. This time, it is like, it's on the list, hand it over.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I disagree that is "worse". It sounds a lot more like a healthy attitude. (Not that your first time's obsessing was necessarily unhealthy -- it was normal, for a first pregnancy.)
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Worse might be the wrong word- maybe just less concerned. I do kinda feel bad about being so much less excited, but I guess the first time, it is like, I am going to be a mommy. Now, I already am a mommy. That and I remember a lot of the misery and suffering that is coming up. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Plus it's easier to keep in perspective when it's not the first. And I suspect the results of the first pregnancy might be keeping you a tad busy . . . Posted by imogen (Member # 5485) on :
I can completely understand scholarette. I imagine next time I get pregnant I will be much less focussed on the pregnancy - out of necessity!
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Well, a three year old with boundless energy who I sometimes think is smarter than me (she comes up with ways to make trouble that I had never even considered) does tend to change the focus a bit. Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
I can completely relate to the difference between my first pregnancy and this one. Having a toddler makes me forget I am pregnant the majority of the time. She is so into everything now. Part of me seems to remember having a baby as so easy as compared to a 2 year old. I am sure having a baby again will make me remember different Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
There were benefits to a baby, but I love the potty trained aspect. And I like that she can talk. Babies are kind of boring. They just lay there. My three year old tells the funniest stories, can follow directions and do basic things, like pour a bowl of cereal, peel a banana, clean up her toys, etc. Right now, she is just so amazingly cute. I am not a baby person though. I am not really a kid person, except for my own. Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
GIRL!
Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
I guess I can even things out and post that I found out it was a boy today!
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Congrats! Girls are better though. No need for shopping for me. That and I can still sew cute frufru dresses for her (they frown on you for dressing your son in a fancy dress).
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Congrats to both!
(I don't know what mine is yet. )
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Kq- is this your announcement? how far along are you? I saw no link to your blog in the smiley face this time.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
There is an announcement on my blog. I don't know when I'm due yet. I'm guessing late Jan. to early Feb. but I haven't had a period since Nov. so... We're calling around trying to find someone who can date my pregnancy without us paying $2500 first. See, I have to be dated by u/s, because I have no freaking clue. And I can't get Medi-Cal until I have a due date. And I can't go to my doctor until I have Medi-Cal, unless I want to pay $2500 up front for a whole pregnancy's worth of care, and have it refunded to me when I get coverage. Planned Parenthood won't do an ultrasound to date me because I plan on keeping the baby and they're "not licensed for prenatal care." Jeff is going to call a few pregnancy option type places (the type designed to convince women not to have abortions and help them get prenatal care or hook up with adoption agencies) and see if one of them can help.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Can't you use an estimated due date based on your measurments, and then correct it if necessary when you get the ultrasound?
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
On your blog, you say you took an pregnancy test last month. Assume that you ovulated the day you took that test and call that your due date. That should be within 2 weeks (if you took the pregnancy test the day before it would have detected, then you are like 2 weeks late on the date, but if your second positive pregnancy test was the absolute first day you could have detected it, then you'll be 2 weeks early). But that date would minimize the possible error on either side. Honestly, I would expect that to give you a later due date (cause you took the second cause feeling sick) but it is also possible that you just get sick fast. With this one, I was sick and pregnant feeling from the first day the test could detect.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
It's very hard to measure someone as fat as me...
I, um, don't remember when I took that pregnancy test.
I do get sick very fast, if this is anything like my previous pregnancies. With Emma I was fainting the day I implanted.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Maybe assume the positve test was day 40 then. That should put you somewhere within a few weeks. It isn't binding, just something to fill in a blank until the doctor can give a better date. Though, in Texas, I think I had to have the doctor sign I was pregnant before I could get on medicaid, but I seem to think there was a 3 month provision- like they would pay off some of your qualifying medical bills that were within 3 months of qualification.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Yeah, TX is different. It was much easier to get this done there.
But, on the plus side, the pregnancy crisis clinic can do what I need. And they even gave Jeff a list of places that also could that have Saturday appointments (further drive but probably worth it.) So I will have an accurate date, don't have to worry about that any more. Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
Congrats! What a frustrating system to want proof of the date of the pregnancy without providing any way to get that proof. Yuck!
I get to the halfway point this week. It seems to be flying by this time around. I feel a little guilty because I haven't spent nearly as much time getting ready for this baby as I did for my first. This baby is going to share a room with my daughter so I need to work on making it more gender neutral. It is definetly a little girls room right now. I just am so tired by the end of the day keeping up with a toddler that I am not making any progress. Hopefully, baby boy won't notice Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
kq- let us know when you have a due date. My husband is claiming we were so much more ready for bin. I'm looking back thinking that the nursery wasn't ready until 3 months after we brought bin home from the hospital, I had very few clothes for her and no stroller, no swing, none of that stuff. We are putting new baby in what is now the game room, which requires me putting up a whole bunch of bookshelves in my room to hold all the board games. And before I do that, I want to paint my room green. Which does mean, yeah, we have some work to getting the nursery up, but my parents are planning to come help before the baby comes. I actually feel like I have a really good chance of getting everything set up before the baby comes home this time. I haven't done a name cross stitch for this one (or even picked one out yet) like I did for Bin and considering the time and effort those things take, I think I am going to have to do one for new baby to lessen rivalry. I really want to like have the house super clean and stuff, but I don't have the energy to do the work right now.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, you know, I always have the energy to clean a few weeks to a few months before the baby comes. So I do (except last time, when I wanted to but my PSD wouldn't let me ) but then it just gets messy again after...
Our main things we'll have to do to get ready for the baby are a) find Emma a loft bed that's the right height so Maggie can have hers, b) get a bigger vehicle, c) new car seat (because I want one, not because I really really need one-- we have seats that would work for a newborn), and d) if it's a boy, shop for clothes. LOL. I think we become more and more minimalists with each child (though it helps that this time around we already have 2 double strollers, both of which can take a newborn, though we'll have to fit the bassinet to the Mountain Buggy, a single that can also take a newborn, slings, a Moby, a bassinet, a rocker, a swing, etc., etc. So I guess we're not so much minimalists as pre-equipped.)
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
We are talking about getting a bigger vehicle and we'll probably need to get a new carseat, but what carseat we get will probably depend on our car. The car will depend on whether or not my husband has a job, which while we are pretty confident he will until the end of the year, we don't know what will happen after that.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well, you know who to ask if you want options to fit. Posted by BlackBlade (Member # 8376) on :
quote:Originally posted by ketchupqueen: Well, you know who to ask if you want options to fit.
This woman speaks the truth. She could probably work as a consultant at one of those car seat manufacturing companies. Not...even...kidding. Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I plan to, just waiting until I know what I need. If we buy a van, that is pretty different from trying to shove three carseats into a Corolla (next year, I am carpooling for preschool and will need to fit the infant and two 3 year olds back there). I am hoping the van is what we go with. Of course, if my husband has no job, there is no way we'll be getting a new car.
ETA- I considered force feeding the kids to get them up to 40 pounds, but not sure how to make them tall and emotionally mature enough for a booster.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*shoves 3 kids into a Corolla on a regular basis* Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I was talking to someone with three kids who was claiming they got the most fuel efficient option they could when they got a van. With three kids they just could not possibly do anything smaller. He was really upset when I called BS on that. Our main motivator for a new car is that my husband's car is near death and keeping it going is getting expensive.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I can understand that. It's neither fuel efficient nor money efficient to keep pouring money into something that keeps dying on you.
We have TRULY outgrown our Corolla. It's probably going to go on long-term loan to friends who don't have a safe way to transport their current 2 kids, and have another on the way this month, unless we HAVE to sell it to buy a van.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I can't think of a possible way to safely fit 4 kids into a corolla. Once you hit 4, you pretty much have to go up to a van, suv, crossover- something with 2 back rows basically. I actually don't have a problem with my friends getting a van- just the whole this is what we had to do mentality. They also bought brand new because they had to and live in a huge McMansion they can't afford (I know families with 4 kids who live in 3 bedroom houses- that's what we did growing up). I admit, I want a 4 bedroom house and a fancy car, but there is a difference between wants and needs (but as I said, with 4 kids, you really are to the need stage for a van).
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Well. If we lived in the UK there is actually an approved and tested product that turns a 3 seater back seat into a 4 seater. (It's called the Multimac.) But as it's not yet approved for the US, no choice but to get a van, yeah.
And yeah, we live in a 3 bedroom house-- and one of the rooms is used as a playroom. Currently Emma and Bridey share a room; before the baby comes we're going to get Emma a loft bed and try to transition Maggie from our bed to Emma's old bed, so we'll have all 3 girls in one room. We figure we can fit 4 kids in the one room before we need to convert the playroom to a bedroom again. We've got SO much space here compared to the 2 bedroom apartments we were used to (we also have a small office, which helps), I can easily see us raising 6 or more kids in this house before we have to think about a bigger place.
Yes, many of our friends think we're insane for not getting a van when we had the third kid, and because we're happy to make do with "so little space." But you know what? I don't really think it's necessary for kids to have their own rooms-- and so far, at least, my kids don't WANT to. They like going to bed in the same room, it provides security and comfort. (We also have a "hideout" in the cupboard under the stairs, so if they need their own space they can go in there with the lantern and some books or coloring and do their own thing for a while.)
Posted by divaesefani (Member # 3763) on :
I agree with the frustration over wants and needs. We live in a 3 bedroom house and we just had our 3rd baby. I can fit another kid in this house no problem. Sure, I WANT a bigger house, like all my friends have, but I don't NEED it. I think my kids NEED to learn how to share. (Besides, grandpa built them a really cool pirate ship bunk bed that just wouldn't be the same in two rooms!)
Until 2 weeks ago, we were driving our 3 kids around in our Carolla. It worked just fine. 2 weeks ago, we sold my husband's truck and paid cash for a used, but nice Buick Rendezvous. (The Carolla is now his commuter car.) I posted on facebook that we got it and one of my friends who has 2 kids said that they test drove one and decided it was "too small for (their) needs." The bought a Ford Exposition instead, because it was big enough for their 2 kids. I rolled my eyes.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Though I have to admit, today, when on the tollway, the little monster rolled down her window and wouldn't roll it back up (driving at 65 mph that is super noisy), my first thought was dang it, I need power windows so I don't have to pull over and roll the window back up. It didn't help that Bin was screaming about how much the noise upset her the whole time (she is super noise sensitive and hates most noises). Of course, I don't really need automatic windows, but for a moment, I thought I did. But I am working at keeping wants and needs separate. I have been much more content with life since then. I also realize just how many luxuries I do have- like bin going to preschool many of my friends would call a need, but it is a want, a good want maybe, but still a want and knowing I am getting all my needs plus a lot of wants, I am happier. Viewing things as needs made me feel entitled instead of grateful.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
For this pregnancy, my insurance covers unlimited physical therapy/chiropractor visits (with dr's note). so basically $15 copay for a massage. And the place watches kiddos while your in there, so free babysitting for like an hour. One session so far and my pelvic muscles feel so much better and headache much reduced. Back has less pain, but still hurts, though she said judging effectiveness on the first time isn't fair. But so worth the $15. I love having good insurance. Since it is technically physical therapy, I will be learning some exercises next time to start doing, which is just another perk. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
That's pretty cool. Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
The chiropractor claims that this makes for eaier births, less complications, I think more full terms- all those pros. I haven't looked into it- I just know I like things that make me feel better. Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
Gah, found out at my 31 week appointment that I had failed my 1 hour glucose test by 1 point. So frustrating! It will take me 2 weeks to get in to the dr and get the results for the 3 hour test. Then if I fail, he said I would be sent to a nutritionist which would probably be another week. Because I have a history of bigger babies the dr said he will probably want to induce by 39 weeks if I fail the 3 hour test. Which means I am going through all of this for a grand total of about 4 weeks of diet and exercise change. I am so not convinced it is worth it. Especially as the dr seemed pretty sure I would pass the 3 hour because I am only 1 point over and I have been doing great weight wise. I just don't want to do the test but am not willing to make a big stink over it. I like my dr. overall and know his hands are somewhat tied by the system too. Just needed to let that out and focus on the positives. I do get a bonus ultrasound to check babies size now which is good. I had great bp readings which makes me thrilled as I struggled with high readings with my first pregnancy.
Posted by Valentine014 (Member # 5981) on :
I wouldn't worry too much. Lots of women go on to pass the 3-hour after failing the 1-hour.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Sucks you have to do the whole 3 hour test, but I'm sure it will be fine. And extra ultrasound- yeah!
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Dang, wish I could see a chiro!
I know several women who have refused the 3 hour test, and instead asked to monitor their blood sugar daily (I hear it's more accurate anyway...) Some of them also just voluntarily went on the GD diet, which is really a pretty healthy one for many mommies and babies, though it can be hard to follow.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
The funny thing with the chiro is like all the pregnant people I know are like yeah, that is awesome, so helpful, wish I could do it. But non-pregnant people (well also my sister in law who is just barely pregnant 6 weeks) are like why are you seeing a chiropractor? I can't believe that would be any good. What a waste of $15. My husband can't believe how much difference it is making- he is like but chiro is a scam. How can this be making you feel so much better? But now he wants to go to one too. Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Chiro is one of only 2 things (the other being massage therapy) that has ever helped the pain from permanent damage I sustained in a car crash as a child. Yeah, I wouldn't take a kid there for an ear infection. But a well-trained, experienced chiro can be wonderful for skeleto-muscular type stuff! And you get a lot of that in pregnancy, what with shifting center of gravity, loosening joints, added weight, squishing around of internalness, etc.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I was a bit surprised when the chiro after rubbing my neck told me she will get rid of the headaches too. I thought she was full of it, but headaches have been so much better since then. Mine at least has been extremely accurate regarding what she could or couldn't do. She said headaches she would fix, pelvic she would fix, back she would help, but not as much (since I keep getting bigger, it is a constant battle). But she has been very accurate over her capabilities. Though I once saw a negative review of a dentist where they complained about the dentist not seeing little kids. The dr says he is not a pediatric dentist pretty clearly on his webpage, so why people expect something different amazes me. I wonder if that same mentality is there with chiropractors.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
There are chiropractors whose claims should set off your radar -- as kq said, claims about ear infections; I've seen claims about immune system function and all kinds of definitely NOT musculo-skeletal issues. But the good ones are very, very good at what they do. And I would never have made it through the horrible sciatica I had with kid #3 without the one I saw.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
I think making people make decisions when they are 9 months pregnant is just cruel. I don't know how many tumbling classes I am going to be able to handle with Bin in November. Right now, she is in 2 hours and that works well, but after new baby, I am thinking that might be too hard. It is 10 weeks per session, and starts nov 1 (due date Oct 19) and I have to sign up next Monday. The coach wants her to stay in the Monday class, and switch wednesday to an advanced class instead of the one she is in now. I like the Wednesday time best, but the coach is right that bin is above that level- even if by age she is in the right class. So, right now I am thinking of just the monday class. We did 2 hours because bin kinda needs the energy release and with just 1 hour, I was going crazy (we did 2 hours, than 1 and then moved back to 2 because it was too much). I am thinking with new baby though having to get both dressed and ready and to the tumbling place will be more exhuasting than bin being crazy. Except maybe changing bin's routine right at the same time as bringing home a new baby will make adjusting worse. So, I don't know.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Ugh, that kind of thing is always hard.
Just remember, no one will care if you take your cute baby along in pajamas. Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
kq- do you know boy or girl with this one? Are you finding out?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
It's a girl. (I would SWEAR I posted that before. Guess not. )
We found out at 19 weeks.
I, um, am becoming a total Hypnobabies junkie. It feels so goooood.
I'm probably going to sound like a walking Hypnobabies informercial by the time I give birth.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Argh. I somehow have managed to become less dilated this week than I was last week. Seriously, what the heck baby! You are supposed to be trying to come out, not hole in deeper. This one has been trying to be as different from her big sister as possible from the start (and I did enjoy the morning sickness starting nice and early and the sore breasts from day of implantation) and that certainly was an innovative way to distinguish herself.
Posted by theresa51282 (Member # 8037) on :
Hang in there! These babies have to come out eventually. I am declining being checked this time around. It brought me nothing but frustration with my last pregnancy.
I am so tired of not being able to sleep. The earliest I have fallen asleep this week is 2am. I am so sleepy I can't stand myself but every time I lay down I get the worst upset stomach and the baby decides its time to karate chop my bladder until I get up for the 20th time. I am so ready to be done with this pregnancy and to move on to enjoying my baby.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I am also going to decline being checked this time. Baby will come when she is ready, and I don't need to go through the discomfort and anxiety-making experience of being checked to find that out.
I've been using auto-suggestion while practicing my state of deep hypnosis to keep aches away during the rest of the day. I bet that would help with the sleep issues too, if I wanted it to. Hmmmm...
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
Sometimes I wonder if it is being pregnant that makes tired or just the inability to sleep. Like does my body need more than 8 hours and that is why the afternoon nap is so appealing or is it that I am never getting any quality sleep?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
...both? Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
Hi ladies. Some of you already know I'm expecting from Sakeriver. I'm about 15 weeks (well exactly going by my LMP). I feel so big today. I'm still needing to pee a lot, especially in the PM, though I'm sleeping a lot better at night since getting the UTI treated.
I also still haven't told my in laws. I feel like we should be at dinner or something when we tell them, not just call them on the phone, you know? But I guess it would be weirder if they hear some other way.
Posted by scholarette (Member # 11540) on :
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Sadly I get sick enough in early pregnancy to make my blood pressure plummet so my hatrack presence (and all activities really) have been curbed while I lie around waiting to feel better.![[Eek!]](eek.gif)
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That's enough to piss off any woman, let alone one who is pregnant!![[Mad]](mad.gif)
That was quite an experience.![[Blushing]](graemlins/blushing.gif)
I don't want another like the one I've got!" It was, of course, a girl... and is nothing like her older sister..Ariela takes after me! ![[Big Grin]](biggrin.gif)
[Not that I'm proud or anything!] ) ![[The Wave]](graemlins/thewave.gif)
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I need to whine for a moment. Ok, I mean, whine more than I've done on previous occasions. I'm having soooo much trouble sleeping. I've had troubles the entire pregnancy falling asleep, but now that I'm bigger it's really bad. Last night I was up till about 4:00am. ![[Group Hug]](graemlins/grouphug.gif)
It's a long journey but it's worth it... and it's even better when you have friends to share it with (and gripe to ![[ROFL]](graemlins/rofl.gif)
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CT, have I told you recently how grateful I am to have you here, willing to answer questions and let us pick your brains? ![[Hat]](graemlins/hat.gif)