December Third Trimester (27 weeks to Delivery) [Archive]

BabyDreams

12-02-2011, 02:20 PM

Welcome Codi! It is a great feeling to make it to the 3rd tri!

Praises it is awesome you have made it this far!! You are almost done and hope you enjoy what could be your last baby less weekend!!

I woke up in the middle of the night extremely crampy. My friend told me that is how she was the day she went into labor.....so I am hoping this weekend will be it! My best friend is out of town for a wedding tonight...so she is nervous that I'll have her tonight and she will miss it. I just feel over stuffed and it amazes me how big my belly has gotten in the last 2 weeks. I am only 5 lbs heavier than when I got pregnant. I lost almost 12 pounds the first trimester and have put that and an extra 5 back on. It is just all in my belly! Well...going to clean up my house. Trying to keep moving, in hopes it gets her moving! Have a happy Friday all!

rachelttc

12-02-2011, 10:38 PM

I had my baby shower today! It was awesome, super fun, and I was so touched by all the people who attended. Getting a giant pile of gifts was pretty cool too!

I had more good news at my midwife appointment yesterday, which is that at 30 weeks, I was measuring 35 weeks (GIANT FETUS), and yesterday, I was measuring 35 weeks! So still a giant fetus, but maybe not quite as giant as they were thinking. I have another giant fetus detecting ultrasound in 9 days, so I will know even more then.

I have a question though. At my work, a whole bunch of people (like 20) chipped in (probably about $10 each) and gave two large gifts. So, do I write 20 individual thank you notes, or is it acceptable to write just one? I don't know the etiquette in this situation.

I love my bean! I love doing kick counts, I love rubbing its feet, and I am so grateful that I am pregnant. The 2WW board has been having a rough stretch, and it reminds me of how much I have to be thankful for.

praises1139

12-02-2011, 11:07 PM

Codi--welcome!!!

Rachel--you just reminded me how cute baby buns are!! Believe me, we are going to see them more than we want to and usually when they have poop on them..lol. It is cool when you can feel baby parts!
Makes me chuckle when you say Giant Fetus. Gigante!!!
DH's work had a shower and pooled all their $ together to buy several gifts (one person did the shopping) and gave us one card from the group that everyone signed. So I wrote a thank you card for the whole group. DH said what they do is pass the card around so everyone sees it. They put a sticky note on it with all the names of everyone who contributed so the person can check their name off that they read it. So I did the sticky note part for them too.
I've been feeling extra grateful lately too. Whenever I see my stretch marks, I think about how happy my babies are inside and how its amazing that they are in there period.

Super--chores and DH: don't get me started! This bedrest thing definitely got him more involved but I still had to ask him to do this and that because he doesn't notice. Well the other day he admitted he noticed but didn't care, lol. Dr Phil's show today was about wives and husbands arguing over household work. I think most couples are the same except for those rare guys that like housework--or at least like the house to be clean, so they do it.

Babydreams--5 lbs.wow!!!!! So excited that you could be in labor soon!!!

EJ1008

12-02-2011, 11:31 PM

Rachel - I would write one card for each person who contributed. That's what I've always done when I've received a group gift. My co-workers were all very happy to receive a card and many of them displayed them at their desks. You don't have to write much, and I usually write the same thing on each card (I wrote a special note to those who organized the shower). Glad to hear your giant baby isn't as giant as you feared and that you can feel specific body parts. I never knew what I was feeling, but turned out my baby was facing the wrong way so it all makes sense now.

BabyDreams - I hope you get to meet your little one this weekend!

praises1139

12-03-2011, 12:55 AM

Nursery pics

The crib side of the room hasnt changed much..except that the cribs have stuff in them that I need to put away. I can organize the closet and bookcase now that we finally have the dresser!!! SIL painted it and we ordered the cup pulls for the drawers (fyi--much cheaper to buy them online!! 1/3 the price of Lowes/Home Depot)

So the theme was going to be pandas but we ended up using stuff we already had for the most part. We are still incorporating the pandas with sheets, quilts that my SIL is making, and we have some bamboo and a paper lantern. Should be interesting..lol.

praises1139

12-04-2011, 03:07 AM

Might be in labor...of course my OB is out of town for an emergency. The midwife at her back-up practice told me to head in since I've been having contractions 5 mins apart, they make my back hurt and some discharge, although its not a lot and there isn't any blood. So I dunno but she said definitely come in to get checked.

BabyDreams

12-04-2011, 03:25 AM

Omg Praises! Good luck no mater what! You did great getting to 36 weeks...guess they listened when you said they didn't have to stay in! Can't wait to hear news...

praises1139

12-04-2011, 06:11 AM

Cervix didn't change, got sent home. My contractions were the right frequency and length, but unproductive. They said they don't want me to not call next time it happens because they don't want me waiting till the head's coming out. (Duh!) So they said the contractions will get really strong and I won't be able to talk and that's when I will know, so I'm like, okay??? Not what I've been told as far as determining when to call my Dr and im not sure I feel comfortable staying home until that point because of the twins but whatever. I'm tired of being told to hydrate. Man I'm crabby!!!! My Dr gets back in town tonight, I'm gonna call her tomorrow.

QueenFroggie

12-04-2011, 08:21 AM

Sorry Praises :( That has to be frustrating! But I agree with you, I wouldn't wait next time either, because they may not be that painful with the same timing but still causing some changes, and I agree with Twins I would rather be in an monitored sooner!

rachelttc

12-04-2011, 01:00 PM

praises: I'm sorry you're having contractions but not getting anywhere! That's supposed to be the payoff of contractions!

I know what you mean about hydration. My midwife tells me like FIVE TIMES at EVERY APPOINTMENT to "drink LOTS and LOTS of water". If she says it to me that often, she must say it like a thousand times a day.

I'm having maybe two contractions a day, which is totally normal at this point. My midwife says that they are two ways to know when to come in to the hospital. The first is contractions four minutes apart, lasting a whole minute, for at least an hour. The second (which I had never heard before) is when they change from hurting to HUUUUUUUURTING. She said that with first time moms, the active labor contractions feel a whole lot worse than early labor ones. So I guess I have two things to go on.

I hope your doctor gets back in town soon!

I assembled the playard I got at my shower. It's great! It has the bassinet and changing tray with storage shelf, so we are probably going to keep it downstairs so that we can change it easily and put it down for naps near us.

praises1139

12-04-2011, 01:05 PM

Yeah I don't know, so confused. I told the nurse that I've been less than 2cm for quite a while and on Tues my OB said no change. The nurse said she would call me a 2-3cm. She said she can't quite get two fingers in. So she thinks I only slightly changed--not enough to call it labor. I've had that nurse before and her cervical checks hurt like hell!!! So when I saw her last night I was like, oh great, and tried to relax but it didn't help. She said no one has ever told her that her checks hurt. It just seems like some of the other nurses and especially my OB are more gentle, have smaller fingers, I don't know. I can't be the only one who has a lot of pain right???

jth0205

12-04-2011, 02:31 PM

Codi - welcome! Your'e in the home stretch now!

Rachel - I'm right there will you with being thankful. I'm so grateful to finally be knocked up!

Supergal - I'm convinced my DH simply can't see the stuff/messes that irk me around the house. He can't possibly!

BabyDreams - Surprised to see a recent post from you. I hope you get to meet your LO really soon! I'm sure the suspense is killing you - it would be killing me.

Praises - sorry the contractions were unproductive. I hope that changes for you soon. Sorry the nurse hurt you when she checked you. When I read that, I was reminded of the "big hands" scene from Seinfeld! She must have big hands! Your nursery is looking great! We had to shift gears with our nursery theme as well. We compromised and I think it's going to work out better. I love the green you have chosen for your nursery! I wanted to go with forest friends by Carters, but that was too expensive (around $200 for a 4 pc set - no valance, no mobile, etc included). So, we found a 13 pc set online with blues and browns that was a much better deal. I am happy it worked out this way because it gives us a lot of flexibility in terms of adding things we like, as you guys have. Once the bedding/decor set arrives and I figure out wall art, I'll post pictures.

afm - starting washing Luke's stuff last night. I have a lot left to wash - we are swimming in blankets so that's probably at least 2 loads right there! I only washed his clothes up to 6 mos. I figure I'll do the rest as I feel like it. I found a co-sleeper on Craigslist and negotiated them down to $50 (after I confirmed it had not been recalled)! I'm so happy about that! I was prepared to spend the extra $$ to get it new, but I'm thankful we were able to save some money. I go to the doc tomorrow. Can't wait to see what the doc says. Hoping I'm making some progress!

BabyDreams

12-04-2011, 11:22 PM

Well! Finally! My water broke but not enough contractions..so they are giving me petocin right now!!

QueenFroggie

12-04-2011, 11:26 PM

yay congrats!!! That is what happened with me, only my water didn't break, they just realized I needed to augment labor to make it progress so did pitocin after 17 hours of "not quite labor" :D Can't wait to hear your story and see pics!

praises1139

12-04-2011, 11:34 PM

Babydreams--wow! U r on your way!! Yay!

Jth--lol@ the big hands...that sounds familiar. I like the Forest Friends too. I ordered the sheets but returned them because the background is ivory and it didn't look right with our bright white cribs. The design is so cute though. I agree, all that bedding stuff is expensive.

jth0205

12-05-2011, 08:05 AM

BabyDreams - YAY!!! I'm so happy for you! I hope all is going well:)

Praises - it's hard to figure out what things look like online. I'm hoping this new set looks ok when it arrives. I'm not sure I would have liked the ivory background on the Forest Friends - good to know that. I would have preferred white. Makes me feel even better.

Heading to the doc and to run a ton of errands shortly! I have to take back some things and spend some gift cards! After today I'm hoping to be pretty much ready for this baby. I'm waiting on one lady at work to bring in a few things that she's been telling me about for about a month. I don't want to ask her for them though. So, I'm holding back some money in case I have to buy those things if she forgets altogether.

Supergal

12-05-2011, 02:46 PM

Babydreams- GL! Can’t wait to hear the good news!

Jth- hope the apt went well and good luck shopping! It’s be nice to put all Luke’s stuff away clean and ready to go!

Praises- the nursery looks great! The dresser turned out really well! Sorry you were sent home and things are moving quickly. Ugh re painful checks! The only person who hasn’t hurt me has been my OB everyone else who does it it feels like I’m being tortured. I’m hoping he’ll deliver my baby since I’ve heard he is quiet gentle.

Rachel- the playard sounds great! We’re also thinking of getting one to keep at Mom’s place. I was told the same thing the contractions will get progressively worst if you are in real labour. I’ve been having 4 to 5 BH a day. Going to ask the DR about it tomorrow but I figure it doesn’t mean anything. Been trying to drink and eat on time since that seems to help.

AFM- starting to plan my babyshower with help from my BFF. She’s never done one so she’s quiet excited but has a 1 year old so I don’t want her to get too stressed! Not looking forward to registering...I’m terrible at making decisions! LO is kicking up a storm and super active today!

jth0205

12-05-2011, 04:15 PM

Supergal - good luck with registering! I looked a registry of a friend of mine who was having her second baby to get a feel for what I might need. I knew about the big things, but it was the little things that got me. I read that you shouldn't register for clothes because you'll get them anyway. And... I did get clothes at my shower!

afm - 1 centimeter dilated as of today!!! I'm so happy to learn I'm making progress. I'm hoping I'll dilate slowly over the course of the next few weeks. My doctor was surprised when I told him I hadn't felt any contractions. I told him that occasionally my stomach felt tight, but that there was no pain. He said that they should be taking my breath away. So, I'm going to try to pay more attention now. Neither my mom nor my sister knew they were in labor because they didn't feel any pain. I was hoping I got those genes - we'll see if I did! I got most everything we need today. I still want to get wooden letters to paint for his wall. And, I want to get two fabric baskets to place on a shelf, but I couldn't find them today. I hope to find them at some point this week.

Update: so, there is more blood than I expected from the cervical check. Doc said that I'd see spotting - I thought, what's new about that with me though?! Anyway, there were two clots when I went to the bathroom just now. I'm hoping it will ease over the next few hours. My cervix really HATES being touched I guess. Anyone else have blood with these types of exams? He said it shouldn't be like a period, but my most recent periods were not really heavy. So, to me it's like a period. It's not filled a pad, so I'm not alarmed... yet.

codih

12-05-2011, 09:00 PM

Thanks for the welcome ladies!!!! It's official today!

Jth- I hope that the bleeding stops. I haven't had cervical checks yet, so I have not had to experience the pain that comes with it. That's great that you're getting everything squared away for Luke's arrival! Must be exciting!

Super- Good luck registering! I enjoyed it. I'm sure it will be more difficult for you though not knowing whether LO is a boy or girl.

BabyDreams- Congrats!! I can't wait to hear the news and see pictures!

Praises- I hope things pick up for you soon and those boys can make their grand appearance. I can't believe it's already time for them to come! The nursery is adorable!

AFM- I enter the 3rd tri today! Wouldn't you know...today was the first day I was like, "This baby needs to come out soon!" I have relentless heartburn everyday. Today was the worse; it was so bad that my throat hurt when it cooled down. I called my OB to get a prescription for something. The nurse said she would call me back, but never did and they didn't call in anything. I was so mad! I got some Maalox to try since Tums aren't cutting it anymore. I can't sleep due to back pain, hip pain, and leg cramps....ugh! I can't stand for long periods of time and I get easily winded. Sorry for the pity party!!!! I'm done now! I'm thankful for this pregnancy despite the side effects :)

We went house shopping today and picked out a house. Now we just need to get the financing in order so that we can put in an offer. It's looking more and more like we'll be settled in when Lily comes into the world, which is great!

readytogo

12-05-2011, 09:07 PM

Welcome to all the new ladies!

BabyDreams -- congrats on going into labor on your own! I hope I can say the same in a few short weeks.

Praises -- sorry you're not there yet, but you're so close, and I'm glad the nursery is cute and ready!

JTH -- I haven't had a cervical exam recently, and I haven't bled from one (yet) but I can imagine that's both annoying and scary. Seems like you've had some bad luck in that department.

Rachel -- at my job whenever someone receives a group gift the person writes one thank you that we post in our break room. The person typically also sends a little email alerting everyone to the card and thanking them again. I don't think people expect individual cards for a group gift from lots and lots of people. And this is coming from me, someone who believes quite strongly in handwritten thank you notes.

afm -- not much new. I feel really, really pregnant these days, but not in a bad way, just in a large stomach kind of way. We had our six-hour childbirth class yesterday, and while it didn't teach me much new info., it did give me some more peace of mind (you might recall I nearly fainted during my hospital tour a couple months ago and I've been trying to confront my fear of hospitals and childbirth ever since). So that was good to attend, and I did pick up a few hints I hadn't heard before (like get into butterfly stretch position after getting an epidural to help the baby make his way down...work with gravity). I've also fully stocked our house with literally everything we will need for the next several months with one exception: forgot D batteries, and we have at least three baby items that require D batteries, so I think we'll have to make another short Costco run for that. It's nice to be physically prepared....now I'm still working on being mentally prepared :)

praises1139

12-06-2011, 08:16 AM

Jth--I only had light spotting after a check and even then.it was only when I was dilating, but I think everyone is different

codi--sorry about your horrible heartburn! Don't feel bad, I've done my fair share of complaining!

Ready--glad you are feeling calmer about the big day. Butterfly stretch? We just bought some D batteries last night..Hehe

Afm, went grocery shopping with DH for the first time in forever. First we went to Walmart to get some non-food items, then to the grocery store. One woman at Walmart said, "Is that twins??? When are you due??" So I told her and she wished me luck. Lol. Then when we were leaving, some guy said "its almost over" haha
By the time we were halfway done with the grocery shopping though, my feet started killing me so i tried to get DH to hurry the heck up!! No time for comparing prices, lol. But I survived. I ate Flamin Hot Cheetos last night to see if that would do anything, but nope.Getting ready for my appt this AM--I hope I dilated some more!!! Sheesh

rachelttc

12-06-2011, 10:23 AM

codih: When my heartburn gets bad, I use Zantac. It's safe for pregnancy, over the counter, and works for twelve hours, instead of TUMS which seem to work for about 30 seconds.

jth: maybe you got lucky and contractions just don't hurt too badly for you!

BabyDreams: Good luck! We're waiting to hear!

AFM: I am getting pretty sick of walking to and from work. Also, I'm WAY sick of shoveling the sidewalk. I take it nice and easy, and I go really slowly, so it's not much harder than walking, but I don't like that I have to do it BEFORE I go to work all day.

I think I graduate to honeydew tomorrow! I'm pretty stoked about that. Also, I'm pretty sure the bean is no longer head down. I can tell because it gets hiccups about 3 times a day lately, and when it hiccups, the head moves, and then a split second later, the butt moves. Like the hiccup makes its way down the body. So each hiccup is like a "Ba-Dum" with the Ba in one spot and the Dum in another. So I hope it decides to go back to head down before the big day. Also I hope the big day happens somewhere between 2 weeks and 5 weeks from now! Ha! As if we get to choose.

I have another ultrasound a week from today. I'm excited to see how big/small it is this time!

BabyDreams

12-06-2011, 10:43 AM

Just a quick update..after 24 hours on Pitocin I finally gave in to a c-section. I dint want one..but for hours i couldn't get past a 6 and she wouldn't drop enough to engage the cervix. Alyson Alyn Marie was born at 6:48 pm on 12/5...8lbs 1oz and 21.5 in. Will post more later and try to figure out how to add a photo!

lighthouse830

12-06-2011, 11:15 AM

congrats baby dreams! :)

praises1139

12-06-2011, 11:27 AM

Babydreams----congratulations!!!! Sorry your cervix didn't cooperate.

Rachel--Omg I feel so bad for you ---I hate shoveling snow!!! Luckily it doesn't snow here often

Well, STILL NO CHANGE!!! arg

QueenFroggie

12-06-2011, 02:27 PM

congrats Baby Dreams!!! Sorry you weren't able to go without the C-section, but glad she is here healthy and happy!!

Praises -- sorry no change :( I know you are so ready to be done, I can't imagine! But remember the longer your babies wait the more prepared for the world they will be!! :)

Supergal

12-06-2011, 05:49 PM

Babydreams- congrats! Can’t wait to see pics! Hope you recover quickly and Alyson is doing well!

Codi- doesn’t it feel great to be officially in the home stretch LOL! I decided not to register for too many clothes since people get that anyways. The rest of the stuff we’ll get unisex colours since we hope to use the stuff for the next baby (I dare to dream!) I can’t wait to hold my baby either but then I think about how fast he/ she will grow and don’t want to rush it. I think the only thing you can take is Zantac. I have acid reflux and my OB won’t even recommend Zantac. He says to just take Tums which doesn’t work at all for me it actually makes me more nauseous. I’ve been drinking milk and having probiotic yoghurts. Complain as much as you want cos we’re going through the same thing so we wont’ feel so bad feeling sorry for ourselves ! So glad you guys found a house and good luck with the financing!

Ready- I’m just like you re petrified of delivery but the prenatal classes did help me. I’ve realized there is really nothing we can do apart from prepare ourselves with coping strategies (remembering to breathe etc) as much as we can. Unfortunately most labour is hours so my usual tactic of put up with it since it will be over soon won’t work here! I’m going to talk to the nurse and let her know that I’m prone to fainting and don’t want to be rushed into a C section unless the baby is distressed (which I don’t think they’d do anyways) I’m just going to take it a step at a time and try to put faith in the DRs and nurses that they are doing all they can for me. Just try to focus on seeing the baby and hopefully we’ll both be ok! They told us they don’t let us move after the epidural (they don’t do walking epidurals here) so I’ll be trying to delay the epidural so I can walk around etc as much.

Praises- u’re a trooper going shopping! I get exhausted during my short 30 mins trips! Did you try Indian food? My friend swears she went into labour at my engagement party where we had tons of super spicy Indian food :D

Jth- hope the bleeding stopped. I don’t think you should have clumping? Hope thing move quickly for you. I’ve always been scared of going into labour and not knowing since I’ve been having cramping and back pain throughout my pregnancy. Hope you get plenty of notice of LO making its way out!

Rachel- I can’t believe u are shovelling snow! I made DH get a snowblower this year since there is no way I’ll be able to help him and we get TONS of snow. GL at the ultrasound! Ur so lucky you get to see LO. I haven’t had an ultrasound since 20 weeks.

AFM- OB apt was short and sweet! Lost 2lbs but baby is growing so OB wasn't concerned. I gained 6 lbs last time so he thinks it was just water retention since belly is definitely bigger! Iron and everything else is good so my tiredness is just me :( (TMI) looks like I'm getting hemroids...ugh! He wasn't concerned about the BH either. So just bake bake bake I guess!

rachelttc

12-07-2011, 01:39 AM

Super: I've never known anyone (in real life) who had ultrasounds after 20 weeks. It is nice to get to see the bean. But I would certainly trade it for not having pregnancy complications! Too bad about the walking epidurals. Maybe you could try something else before the epidural, like Nubain?

babydreams: yay! congratulations!

praises: I know you're uncomfortable, but in some ways it's great your boys are still baking! They will come out sooner or later. :)

AFM: I went out and bought a snow blower tonight, because this morning I only shoveled one shovel width of my sidewalk and thought, "good enough". Had the people at the store load the blower into my car. But then I got home and realized I shouldn't get it out of my car (it weighs 50 pounds). So I'll have to wait until my DH gets home this weekend to have him unload it and assemble it. If he were at home during the week, I'd make him do it all, but no such luck. I can't imagine how women whose husbands are deployed manage! Especially if they're like me and have no family nearby. At least I can have him do some stuff on the weekends.

I have gained 15 pounds now. Which is about 3 pounds in the past 10 weeks. And none at all in the past 4 weeks. Bean is definitely growing, so I must be losing weight from somewhere, right? I think I might be one of those obnoxious women who weighs less when they leave the hospital than when they conceive, because I think about week 37 they start not gaining as fast, which might mean I'll actually go back down to 12 by the end! Bean also gets hiccups about 4 times a day, which is super cute.

I did awfully with my eating today. Muffins at breakfast, turkey sandwich and punch at lunch, and then pizza rolls for dinner! The pizza rolls were really really a bad choice, my blood sugars were 166, which is way too high. I can only try to do better tomorrow.

I got my Moby wrap in the mail today. It's cute, and not as complicated to put on as the 8-step instructions make it seem. It's really more like 3 steps. Can't wait to have a baby to stuff in there!

praises1139

12-07-2011, 09:57 AM

I know, I keep trying to remind myself that they are not full term till Sat, but on the other hand that is only 3 days away and I already look at least 40wks. My fear is going to 38wks and having 7lb babies...lol

I do have pelvic pain today when I walk...so that is new. Maybe baby A is pushing down more? My belly feels really heavy today.

QueenFroggie

12-07-2011, 10:38 AM

Praises -- have they done an u/s to measure size recently? But keep in mind, if they are both 7lbs, that is the average for a singleton! So they will be a good size not too little and not huge! :)

praises1139

12-07-2011, 11:17 AM

Praises -- have they done an u/s to measure size recently? But keep in mind, if they are both 7lbs, that is the average for a singleton! So they will be a good size not too little and not huge! :)

My last u/s was a little over 2 wks ago...my peri estimated 4lb11oz and 5lb3oz....I'm guessing they're around 6lbs now, so 7lb in 10 more days probably would be unrealistic! both babies have been growing on consistent curves the whole time and since everything has looked good, I will probably not have another set of full scans, but my OB's tech will scan me if need be.

So my SIL asked if we were going to take the babies to see Santa...THIS YEAR. Yeah, she was not kidding either. I said no way!! They'll only be a couple wks old and we are not taking them to a mall full of germs and stand in a crowded line. Plus I don't want some stranger in a Santa suit touching my babies. She is crazy. She was like, but its their first Christmas! I even told her we aren't doing the Santa visits anyway and she said that was sad. My parents didn't take us and I don't feel like I missed anything, lol. I think there are plenty of other fun Christmas activities. Anyway, there are a lot of things my SIL does with her kids that the family thinks are crazy and she will think we are crazy for not doing them.

rachelttc

12-07-2011, 01:32 PM

praises: I'm with you 100% on the Santa thing. 1) they will be too young to remember it, so you'd only be doing it for the adults, 2) even when they're older, mostly they just get scared and scream, 3) they never clean those santa suits and they are crazy sweaty in there and 4) I am personally not going to do the santa thing with my kids ever, because I don't want to teach them that they can't trust what I say. Basically, santa is a big lie that parents tell their kids because it's "cute". But I want my kids to know that telling the truth is important, and that they can trust me to tell it to them.

Also remember that no one, not one single person, probably not even your husband, will agree with 100% of your parenting decisions. You just have to do what you believe is right, and remember you can't please everyone.

Supergal

12-07-2011, 02:54 PM

Praises- I also completely agree with you re Santa thing. Why would you take such young babies to the mall and expose them to yucky germs during flu season just to get a pic! U’ll have enough pics of them at home around the Christmas decorations etc to make it a nice memory. I’m not planning on exposing LO to anything for at least a month. My parents never took us either. I might take LO once they are old enough to want to go but I definitely won’t be forcing my kids. I’m not a fan of the kicking, screaming and crying episode either to get a pic. My back is killing me with one I can’t imagine how you are managing with the weight of two! Really proud of you and how well you’ve taken care of yourself and the babies!

Rachel- yey for the snow blower! Be careful pushing or pulling it too quickly though those suckers are quiet heavy! I tried to move ours this weekend while we were cleaning the garage and I was surprised at the weight. Good call on waiting for DH to unload it we asked a neighbour to help DH take it out of the truck. I’m at 10lbs weight gain right now and I definitely think I’m losing other places since my winter jacket which was in no way big last year fits me perfect and I have room to grow! It will be nice not to have to worry about weight loss once we give birth. I was super worried since it takes me forever to lose weight thanks to PCOS! I want one of those wraps too LOs look so comfy in them. I’ve also been eating badly since I feel too tired to make proper meal. I’m also going to work on getting more fruits and veggies in and less carbs!

AFM- super tired today. Took a 2 hour nap so now I’m behind on work but yet here I am lol! For those of you who rem our family friend who had the baby at 26 weeks since her water broke...the baby is doing really well! Nearly 5 lbs now so hopefully he’ll be home in time for Christmas!

KMCarpeDiem

12-07-2011, 04:11 PM

I guess I am going to be joing you ladies now. I am 27 weeks today with twin girls! CAN NOT believe I am in my 3rd trimester....I thought I would never see this day!

Not a very eventful pregnany so far. Did get to spend the weekend at the hospital due to frequent and painful braxton hicks. Now taking procardia around the clock. They were not distressing the babies nor were they causing me to dilate so no work restrictions yet! :)

Looking forward to the rest of this journey with you ladies!!!

praises1139

12-07-2011, 05:46 PM

KM-----welcome!!! Just be careful...I had preterm labor--I did start dilating--at 31 wks and that was after already being on bedrest for 9 wks and Procardia for 2. Do you know your cervical length?

Super--my mom said that's why they didn't take us--screaming/whining kids and its a hassle.
that is great about your friends baby. The ones I know that had their twins at almost 27wks are starting to give up on the idea of having them home by Christmas, or at least one of the babies. :(

Rachel--so true about the parenting thing.

readytogo

12-07-2011, 06:22 PM

KM -- welcome! Congrats on making it this far!

Rachel -- wow, shoveling and snow blowing. That all sounds quite intense. Good job being a trooper!

Praises -- yeah, the butterfly stretch is the one where you sit upright with your knees facing out and your feet touching together (and in some yoga moves you "flap your wings" aka move your knees up and down and look like a butterfly. I'm willing to try it during labor if someone claims it could help...who knows! Also right there with you on the Santa thing, less for germs, more for religious reasons. Neither my husband nor I grew up celebrating Christmas (we both grew up in different less-mainstream religions) and kids or no kids, people cannot get over the fact that as adults we don't celebrate Christmas. Everyone's like, "But it's an American holiday" and we say, "Well, technically it's a Christian holiday, and since we're not Christian, we don't celebrate it." Any time you make non-mainstream choices people tend to raise eyebrows, but no big deal.

Super -- yes, I hope we can both be strong with the coping strategies when the big day arrives. I can only imagine at this point!

Afm -- still uneventful. Last night, though, was rough. Far and away worst sleep of my pregnancy. I think in an attempt to avoid swelling I guess I drank too much water too close to bed time. I woke up nearly every 30 minutes (not to pee every time, but to shift around and find comfortable positions...and also sometimes to pee). Still, for being this far along and having no issues I count myself lucky. We'll see what I find out at tomorrow's doctor's appointment. i have my first cervical check and my first ultrasound since my 20 week anatomy scan. This one is to check baby's position and fluid levels (and it's a standard ultrasound through my insurance...not a high-risk situation).

KMCarpeDiem

12-07-2011, 06:55 PM

Praises- Last ultrasound on 11/29 my cervix was 3.8. When they manually checked me at the hospital on saturday she said it was long, hard and closed. She did not check me today becasue she said that can cause the contractinos to flare up. I go back in 2 weeks and they will do another ultrasound for growth of the twins and I will probably push for a cervical measurement that day...I dont see why not, they dont take that long.

I am trying to take it easy: I am no longer going to yoga and if i can work a half day or co-treat with other therapists, I am. i work in early intervention so i travel to other people's home to work with their chidren. I am also adapting in ways i can....not getting on the floor anymore is the first thing...So i am trying!!

praises1139

12-07-2011, 08:43 PM

KM--that measurement sounds great. Good idea to get another one though.

Ready--sorry for the crap sleep, that stinks. Ok, the butterfly stretch, I know what you mean. I think my yoga teacher calls it something else?
Yeah people celebrate Christmas different ways--secular/not religious, Christian, and some people who are Christian don't celebrate it because it has pagan rituals, kinda like Easter. So many different views. I think what matters is the meaning it has for someone and if it's no meaning, then nothing to celebrate!

Just went to dinner with DH at a casual hibachi place. When we were leaving, a guy said, "Want me to scare him outta ya??". Guess I really look ready to pop!
Then walked around Walmart because we forgot to get disposable plasticware and paper plates to get us through the first few wks of babies. I hate to be wasteful but I was assured that it is sooooooo worth it!!

rachelttc

12-08-2011, 12:05 AM

praises: I think it's baddha konasana, or bound angle pose in English.

ready: I hear you on the crap sleep. Last night was awful. Tossed and turned. Although it's not really "tossing" anymore. It's more like "very slowly trying to turn while groaning and looking for someplace to put my belly".

AFM: I did so much better with food today! No blood sugars over 105 all day long! I just need to keep it up a few more weeks, and then the bean will come out, and then I can quit sharing my pancreas.

I decided that it is okay to post one thank you card in the break room, and send an email letting people know it's there. But I found a really cheap box of thank you notes with 50 cherry blossom cards for $12. So now I think I will do them all individually, even though I think I don't have to to be polite. So 28 thank you cards, here I come!

jth0205

12-08-2011, 09:34 AM

Codi - Good luck with your new home - that's exciting! Oh, and my exam didn't hurt. I wish the same for everyone - pain free cervical checks! I had one a few weeks back and it was uncomfy. This time, I stayed relaxed and really didn't have any discomfort.

Ready - so glad you gained some peace of mind from the childbirth classes. Hope I can soon join you in saying that we are all ready!

Rachel - be careful (as if you haven't heard that a million times!) with the snow. That really stinks. Hope the snow blower will make it easier for you once it's up and running. I'm sorry for your complications; however, I'm a little jealous of your u/s! I haven't had one since around 21 weeks. I hope your LO is just the right size at your next u/s.

BabyDreams - Congratulations! Really can't wait to hear more and see pictures!

Supergal - sorry about the hemorrhoids - that's no good!

Praises - I hope they show up soon for you!

Megan - Welcome!

afm - bleeding finally stopped from the cervical exam. It had eased a lot by the next day. Now, it's all gone. For that I am thankful. Of course, I get to do it all again on Monday! So curious to find out if there has been any change. My supervisor nearly flipped when I told her I was dilated! She is nervous about me leaving. There are a few things that only I do and it's not the best time of year to head out, but the baby is going to arrive when he wants and it is what it is. I've tried to train her - created manuals, etc. I'm sure it will be fine. Work is stressing me out. I'm trying to get all the must-dos done this week (original plan was to finish by next Friday). I think I'm nearly there! I received the crib bedding. Turns out I ordered the wrong color by mistake! I'm so mad at myself! Now, I have to return it and wait for the correct color to arrive. Oh well, that's not something we have to have the second we get home from the hospital.

readytogo

12-08-2011, 05:52 PM

jth -- Glad to hear the bleeding is no longer happening. I hope you'll discover that you've made some change by your next appointment.

On a related note, I had my first cervical check today, and I am 75% effaced and 1 cm dilated!! I could not believe it. My doctor was actually really excited, saying that in her experience for a first-time mom this is excellent progress. She seems to think the baby will either be on time or early based on my progress, which she attributes to me being a teacher and being up on my feet a lot of the day. Of course, I actually manage to sit a good amount on the job (since I have reasonably well-behaved high schoolers) but still, I do probably move more than the average office worker. Regardless, the baby could still be late, but here is my incentive for packing my hospital bag! I hate to pack, and this is probably the ultimate example of me hating to pack, but I will take of it by this weekend! Hope all are well.

jth0205

12-08-2011, 08:12 PM

Ready - that's so exciting! I was surprised to learn that I was dilated as well. Surprised and excited all at the same time:) Do you find it hard to concentrate now? It's always in the back of my mind now! I want to meet him, but I want him to bake a little longer all at the same time. Plus, I'm really enjoying this phase of my pregnancy.

codih

12-08-2011, 09:43 PM

Ready- Congrats on being dilated! That's so exciting!!! Packing is probably a good idea at this point.

JTH- Thanks for the well wishes! Good luck with training your supervisor! I will start making a plan for my absence with my supervisor soon. Luckily, I have enough co-workers to help take up the slack that I will be leaving behind. Not to mention 2 interns :)

Rachel- Good job on eating right! I wish I could do that! I really hope that I don't fail my GTT next week :( Hope the snowblower helps keep the snow at bay!

Praises- That's hilarious what the strangers said! Hibachi is sooo good. I never thought of using disposable plates and utensils to keep the craziness down.

KM- Hopefully you can find a way to do your job with as little stress on your body as possible. What do you do, if you don't mind me asking? I hope the productive contraction stay away until it's time.

Super- I'm glad to hear that the pre-term baby is doing well! Modern medicine is awesome! I feel for you ladies that live where it snows. I'm having a hard enough time being comfortable down here in FL where the low's have not been below 28 or so.

AFM- I fell down the porch steps today on my way to work. I slipped and kind of bounced down about 3 steps. I called my OB office as soon as they opened and they wanted me to come in. Everything checked out ok. I saw a different doctor in the practice since mine was out. I have now seen all 3 doctors at my office, so that's good since any of them could deliver the baby. I'm very sore. I'm pretty sure my tailbone is either badly bruised or cracked. I can't sit nor stand for a long period of time. I'm just glad Lily is ok. She's moving all around like nothing happened. We heard her heartbeat clearer than we've ever heard it!! It was awesome!

Thanks for all the well wishes for our housing. We've run into some snags. Hopefully, they will work out. If not, we'll be moving in with DH's grandmother for a little while we get some things straightened out.

Tomorrow is Friday! Yay!!

readytogo

12-08-2011, 10:29 PM

Oh no, Codi! So sorry to hear about your fall. I am glad to hear that your baby is doing well even though you are experiencing some discomfort. I'm sure you're relieved. Stay safe!

jth -- well, now I have this new sense of urgency about everything, like let's get it done NOW. My husband and I started a will through LegalZoom (my lawyer sister in law recommended it as the cheapest option for people who, like us, do not have overly complicated assets). So, now I want us to get it finalized this weekend. I felt like before we had all this time, and maybe we do, but I can see the need to be prepared at any moment. I just hope my water doesn't break while I'm teaching :)

BabyDreams

12-09-2011, 01:08 AM

Hey all....hope everyone is well! I need to catch up and will do personals later. Just posted a quick update on my delivery of Alyson Alyn Marie and a couple pictures. She is ready to nurse...so off I go.

Hope to hear of more births soon!!

Supergal

12-09-2011, 01:45 PM

KMC- welcome! Sorry you are having contractions so early. I hope the meds can keep them at bay. For sure ask for the cervical check while you are there. Bedrest seems to be working wonders for the ladies on the board so take it easy whenever you can!

Praises- how r u and the boyz doing? Sorry ur friends won’t be able to have their babies home for Christmas. Sending lots of positive vibes and prayers their way. Nice idea re paper plates! I have to start stocking up on groceries.

Ready- Sorry about ur crappy sleep. Every nite seems to suck for me because of the sciatic nerve pain. Hopefully you can get a nap in during the day to keep you going. Yey for being dilated and effaced! Does it feel so close now? I hate packing too so I find keeping the suitcase open and throwing a couple of things in each time works. Then I take ½ and hour to just go through everything and make sure I’ve got it all.

Jth- glad the bleeding stopped. I’m sure they’ll be fine at work u focus on yourself! Hope you get the right colour bedding soon!

Codi- it’s actually been quiet mild (lowest was -3oC ish) so I should count my blessings :) Dreading those -20oC wind chills and 20 cm of snow days. I’m so scared of falling I’m sorry you had such a bad tumble. Glad Lily is ok. Bruised tail bones hurt like hell! Hope grandma will spoil u and thing work out quickly for the house.

Congrats again Babydreams! She’s adorable.

Do you guys have a chest freezer? I think we should get one for storing breastmilk and extra food. Nothing new apart from LO kicking all over my tummy now. People still saying I look tiny (for once in my life lol). I don't know if I should be glad or worried. OB doesn't seem to care...

rachelttc

12-09-2011, 10:26 PM

I'm so mad right now I don't even know what to do with myself.

Tonight my husband told our best friends our baby names. Even though we had ONE HUNDRED PERCENT agreed not to tell. And he had sworn he wouldn't.

And now I want to change the f*cking names I'm so mad. But i really like the names. Why did he have to f*ck this up for me?

praises1139

12-09-2011, 11:55 PM

Rachel--aw, I'm sorry...sucks when you agree to do (or not do) something and then that happens. Don't change the names if you really like them though. And don't let this ruin your last wks of pregnancy--try to enjoy this time. I would be mad and expect an apology, but then try to get over it. Do these friends know that the names are a secret?

Super--thanks. we are good. Full term in less than 30 mins!!! We have a chest freezer that my in-laws gave us when they got a new freezer. We are hoping it comes in handy.

Codi--glad u two are ok!!! I'm so trying to not fall this last week I've got left!

Yay for those who are dilated! I feel better about a possible induction knowing that I am dilated a bit. I guess on Tues we will go ahead and schedule one.
We are going to take our cat in tomorrow for his check-up. Anyone think their cat has allergies? Lol. Our cat sneezes more than other cats I've had. I dunno.
Really hoping our babies won't be allergic to him. I know someone who just had to give away two cats because her newborn is allergic. She said if she came in contact with them, she would break out in a rash.

codih

12-10-2011, 10:51 AM

Praises- Congrats making it to full term!!! This is a big accomplishment! My mom's cat has allergies. She has to get a shot every month. Her dog has them too, and I'm pretty sure one of ours has allergies. He chews his skin all the time.

Rachel- Sorry DH blew the secret. I'm with Praises. If you really like the names, don't change them. Just swear those friends to secrecy and ask DH for an apology.

Super- We have a chest freezer. I'm planning to make some big crock pot meals and freeze the leftovers to eat during those first few weeks. I also am planning to freeze breast milk. I guess it will be nice living with someone for a little while if we have to. We'll have some help.

BabyDreams- Congrats on the birth of your sweet girl! She's gorgeous!

Ready- I fear my water breaking at work too. I have this image of walking down the hallway with a bunch of patients around and all of a sudden there's water spilling out of me...not pretty!

I'm still pretty sore. Last time I hurt my tailbone it took about a week before I was able to sit comfortably. I had a rough night last night, my hips hurt by back hurt, my butt hurt... DH is sick and coughed and tossed all night. We're just a bunch of pitiful people right now :)

Supergal

12-12-2011, 12:26 AM

Praises- yey! I was just telling DH about you and how great you are doing. I hope LO isn’t allergic to cats too since DH and I both adore my cat who has been staying with us while my mum is away. DH doesn’t want to give her back LOL! I couldn’t imagine having to give her away. Exciting that you will know when the boys are coming at your apt on Tuesday. Still seems unreal that they’ll be here soon!

Codi- hope you are feeling better! You’ll definitely need the help although it may be a bit annoying adjusting to having another person around!

Rachel- so sorry DH let it slip! My DH is the same way he gets carried away around friends and family and just blurts out stuff sometimes. He mentioned this name we thought of if LO is a girl to his mum and of course she shut it down so he learnt his lesson and has kept quiet after that! Don’t change the name since you obviously love it. It’s so hard to come up with something you both agree on. Just make him feel really bad so he doesn’t do it again lol!

Thanks Ladies- I’ll add a chest freezer to our ever growing “need” list.

AFM- had a busy weekend! Found a place to buy the crib, registered (DH was amazing! He just went around picking and scanning everything I said I needed so we were done in 1 hour! I didn’t have to decide on anything he picked it all and just discussed what features, colours etc I wanted. I just need to add some onsies, hats and little things.) Finished putting the Christmas lights up, got a Christmas tree, went to dinner with friends, and prepped for all my meetings this week...phew! I just realized I haven’t done any Christmas shopping and I only have 1.5 weeks! Where is time going?!! I guess I'm napping it away LOL!

praises1139

12-12-2011, 12:24 PM

Well I'm pretty sure my OB's father died from that stroke he had the other wknd because the office called about moving all of tomorrow's appts to Wed or Thurs because of a family emergency. I need to call back after lunch to reschedule. I feel bad for my OB. Being a Dr and running her own practice, there's not much time to take off to grieve. She was starting to tear up when she told me he was sent to hospice, but she kept her composure.
I'm quitting my job, so I'm going to call my boss and let him know. I am dreading it. I'm going to write a letter to turn in so it is official.

jth0205

12-12-2011, 01:33 PM

Codi - sorry about your fall. I'm glad you and baby are ok. I hope the soreness eases for you soon.

Ready - I fear my water breaking at work as well. I have a long commute so I also fear going into labor at work and being so far away from home.

Supergal - people have said all along that I look small. Like you, my OB doesn't seem to care either. 1.5 weeks until CHristmas - YIKES! I am so far behind on that. All I can think about now is getting ready for the baby.

Rachel - sorry about the name deal. I'm with the others. Ask for an apology from DH and ask that the friends zip it. If you like the names, keep them.

Praises - good luck with your boss. I hope they are understanding and don't guilt you or give you a hard time.

Afm - went to the doc today. I am 2 to 3 centimeters dilated and 60% effaced. So, at least there has been progress since last Monday! My ankles and feet are disgustingly swollen right now. I was on my feet a ton this weekend, cleaning like a maniac. I still have a lot I want to do, but I've decided to keep my feet up more today in hopes that my shoes will fit tomorrow! I am also going to try to drink even more water, but I can't only intake so much before I'm miserable. My OB scheduled an appointment for next week and then again on 12/30. I hope and pray I don't make it to that 12/30 appointment. Oh, and despite the fact that EVERYONE comments on how small I am, the doc said today that he thinks this baby is about 7.4 lbs right now. So much for him weighing less than 8 lbs! I guess my torso is longer and he has more room that way, which makes me appear smaller to others. I do know I feel pretty large!

rachelttc

12-12-2011, 11:56 PM

Hi all!

praises: When I hadn't seen you post in two days, I thought maybe it was your time!

jth: since you're so close, I wouldn't recommend going out and buying compression socks like I do with other people (although they have changed my LIFE in terms of how little swelling I have now). But you can get the same effects with ace bandages. So if you have any, you could try wrapping them around your ankles in the morning, before the swelling gets really bad.

super: lights up for only a week and a half? You better keep them up til valentine's day to make it worthwhile.

codih: sorry about your tailbone. I lost my footing twice today on the walk to work (it was raining on the ice on the sidewalks, eesh!) I hope you've gotten all your falls out of the way! I sit on a donut at home, and on a boppy at work, to try to take pressure off. I'm sure you know how to care for yourself though, especially since you've had tailbone trouble before.

KM: like you, I have trouble not working too hard. Eleven hours today. Then I came home and cooked dinner. It's exhausting. But only seven more days until I start working from home. I'm happy and sad about that. Happy because I should get to sleep in a little bit, but sad that I won't be getting as much exercise.

AFM: Another ultrasound tomorrow. I'm hoping the bean cooperates and shows its face, and I'm also hoping the tech doesn't "slip" and use a gender pronoun like she did last time! I tried to ignore it, but it's pretty hard. You'd think they'd be better about that given that it's their job.

The bean has been lazy today. Maybe it's resting up to do the cha-cha during the scan, like it did last time! I really love feeling the bean move, even though it doesn't really kick anymore, mostly just pushes and wiggles. I think I'll miss it when it isn't in there anymore! I'll probably also miss how quiet it is now. :)

readytogo

12-13-2011, 04:21 AM

Rachel -- sorry from before about the name slip up with DH. I am sure that's annoying, and I would be super pissed too, but it sounds like you've made peace with it. Like everyone else, I would still keep the name.

Super -- good job getting so much done!!! Doesn't it feel awesome?

Codi -- hope you are recovering from your fall. Feeling any better?

Praises and jth -- my birth week buddies, congrats to us three for making it to watermelon size. I never thought I would get here. Isn't it surreal?

Praises -- I don't think I realized you were planning to quit your job. Was this a new development?

jth -- A 7.4 lb. baby sounds really healthy...ideal weight. I read in a book title Origins about how 7.5 lb. is the "perfect" baby weight statistically speaking for long-term health. Of course, all this means is that in tracking the average healthy adult, this was the average birth weight, so I don't put too much stock in any of it, but it's interesting nonetheless.

AFM, I'm feeling more and more pressure in my lower pelvis. If I had to bet, I would guess this means I'm continuing to efface and/or having Braxton Hicks contractions that are not painful in the slightest. After finding out on Thursday that I'm dilated and effaced I stayed at work super late Friday to get everything possible done. I'm still crossing my fingers that I work until Dec. 22 as planned, but just in case I wanted to have all my ducks in a row so my substitute teacher can dive right in (and no one will need to contact me about lesson plans or grades while I'm out on leave!). I'll find out at my appointment on Friday if I've made any more progress.

Supergal

12-13-2011, 03:45 PM

Praises- glad you guys made a decision re work. Hopefully you can leave on good terms so you can go back if you ever need to. Its admirable that your OB is taking care of her patients while going through so much.

Jth- glad to know I’m not the only one who’s looking a bit small. Also glad to hear the baby is a good weight! 7lbs seems like the ideal weight for a baby! Not too big and not too small! Both DH and I were 6ish lbs but full term so I’m hoping I can bake LO to 7lbs. I can’t stop thinking about the baby either! I have to keep stopping myself from obsessing and reminding myself I have lots of time left. Can’t believe you girls are still working! I had a 5 hour meeting yesterday and was exhausted the rest of the day. You are so close I can’t imagine doing anything but thinking about the baby! I feel huge too and I’m starting to feel the weight when walking...can’t imagine what 9 months will feel like!

Rachel- with my DH I’m sure the lights will be left up for longer than Valentines day :P We only put up one string last year since we went away for Christmas and he left those up all year then was surprised when they didn’t work lol! Hope the ultrasound goes well and you get to see ur little bean’s face! U ladies are SO active. I feel like a bum! Enjoy as much sleep as u can before LO comes!

Ready- hope the apt goes well on Friday and ur little girl gets here before Christmas!

readytogo

12-13-2011, 04:57 PM

So, just a quick update: I have been having menstrual-style cramps off and on all day, which is especially odd for me because 1) I don't get much in the way of cramps when I'm actually getting my period and 2) I haven't had any cramping my whole pregnancy. Then, total TMI alert, but, last night I had a major bowel movement followed by....count them....5! at work today. I have worked for 9 years since college and haven't once had a bowel movement at work (I obviously have a problem). Called my doctor's office, and they said these are likely early labor signs. So, I am going to grade some papers tonight and hope that this baby stays put until Dec. 22, at which point she is allowed out :)

Supergal

12-13-2011, 05:12 PM

Ready- didn't they ask you to come in? Those are definitely labour signs! Hmm maybe LO will be here soon!

rachelttc

12-13-2011, 06:33 PM

ready: that's exciting! Nothing like getting the pipes cleaned out in preparation for pushing! I'm not surprised they didn't ask you to come in, because it sounds like pre-labor, or very very early labor, and they probably don't want you to come in until active labor.

AFM: The tech and the doctor both used gender pronouns today. Jeesh. After I reminded them that I don't want to know.

The ultrasound kinda sucked. 1) it wasn't moving at all, so they had to do the acoustic stimulation on it, 2) it wasn't doing its practice breathing like its supposed to, 3) it had its hands in front of its face the whole time so no photos, and 4) it was huge (5 pounds, 12 ounces).

So the doctor thinks at least 9 pounds at birth. And she said if it's 10 or 11, they won't let me give birth vaginally.

Then I met with my midwife, and she said I can't have the pain relief I wanted (which was a pudendal block), and that this hospital doesn't do walking epidurals (which was my second choice). Also she said they have no birthing stool, so I guess I just have to hope my legs are strong enough after however many hours of labor to squat to try to get the kid out.

I know it's not the end of the world, but I'm still disappointed. There were three things on my list: normal size, pudendal block, and birthing stool, and I got none!

wantingbabynumber2

12-13-2011, 09:01 PM

Rachel couple of suggestions first off how did they determine the size of the baby? My baby was measuring a little big but that was on us they have a program that guesstimates size and eventhough she is measuring big right now after doing that she is only measuring 8 1/2# at birth. Plus remember that us are not totally reliable when it comes to size! Next on the stool look in to buying one yourself or a birthing ball to help during labor. For the actual delivery if you don't have a stool you can do a lay on your back with a sheet most beds have a frame at the end you can attach it to you pull on the sheet to put you in a squat position for delivery hope that makes sense. And as for the block that is what I wanted but I talked to the head of our anesthesia dept where I worked and he said they actually are fairly ineffective and that is why most hospitals don't offer them at all. There are alot of options for pain control including some short acting iv meds to take the edge off. Have you looked in to hypno birthing? That is a very good no drug option.

rachelttc

12-14-2011, 01:47 AM

Hi wanting: Thanks for the suggestions. They measured the size with ultrasound. How big did they say yours was before it turned out to be 8 1/2?

I looked online and found a shower chair with a cut-out that I think could work as a birthing stool. So I might order that, I'm going to talk to my doula about it.

I talked to the midwife about other options, but the pudendal block is for the pushing stage, and they don't really give NuBain or Fentanyl during pushing, because they don't want it in the baby's system at birth. So I think IV meds are out for that stage. I haven't read much about hypnobirthing, but my doula has suggested it, so maybe I will check out a book about it or something.

JE1014

12-14-2011, 11:19 AM

Rachel - I did the hypnobabies home study course and it enabled me to labor and birth without pain medication. I loved it. While it's not an 'easy' solution, I'm so glad I did it. It requires a lot of preparation and practice of the relaxation methods, but I can attest that it can work. you can research at hypnobabies.com and search hypnobabies birth on youtube....its amazing to watch some of these moms birth without so much as a frown....

Another thing to try if you are hoping to avoid an epidural..... can you labor in water at your hospital?

The best way to avoid an epidural is to prepare your body for labor. Research positions to labor in and relaxation techniques. If you don't invest in the hypnobabies home course, read 'Hypnobirthing: The Mongan Method'. It really taught me a lot about what the body goes through during labor and how to work with your body instead of fighting it and increasing your discomfort.

MegzyAngel

12-14-2011, 07:53 PM

rach - i hope you can get one of those chairs to use. i would have loved to use a birthing stool or the shower in the room but because they had a monitor on babys head and i had several IV lines and a catheter it wasnt possible.

readytogo - hoping LO stays put until the 22nd for you. Its still possible. I was getting menstrual cramps and loose bowel movements on and off sometimes multiple times a day from 37 weeks onwards and gave birth 12 days overdue the day before i was to be induced.

codih

12-14-2011, 10:03 PM

Ready- I hope LO cooperates with you and waits until you are ready. Of course, out LO's have minds of their own :)

Super- I'm starting to get uncomfortable too. I'm wondering what I'm going to feel like come February.

jth- Any new news with you about Luke's arrival???

Rachel- I hope you can work something out so that your birth experience is all that you want it to be.

AFM- First the fall last week...now I'm sick sick sick. Stupid sinuses combined with the mucus membrane swelling of pregnancy has me feeling like there is an elephant walking on my cheekbones, ugh. I'm considering making a trip to my general doctor tomorrow incase I've developed a sinus infection. I hate being sick!

On a good note, my appointment yesterday went well. My previa is gone! My OB got onto me about my weight again. I'm up 27 pounds. Lily definitely has inherited her mother's stubbornness. She did not cooperate very well with the u/s. She's definitely a girl! The tech estimated her weight at 2 lbs 10 oz. We sort of got to see her face. It looks like she may have my nose! We even got to see that her 2nd toe is longer than her big toe. DH's is slightly longer and my dad's is significantly longer. It was so neat! We're debating the 3d/4d u/s. It's $125 for 12 pictures. Since she hasn't really cooperated with the last 2, we feel like it could be a waste if she doesn't cooperate with it. Any thoughts? I don't feel like I need it now that we sorta got to see her face, but I still want it. It has to be done by 30 weeks. We went ahead and scheduled it after the next appt on the 28th; we can cancel it if we decide against it. We're on bi-weekly now! Sorry for the long post!

rachelttc

12-14-2011, 11:54 PM

codih: it's funny, but the most uncooperative pose for ultrasounds is the perfect pose for childbirth! Head down in the pelvis, with the face pointed at your spine! At my ultrasound yesterday, I tried mashing my uterus around a bunch, trying to get it to move its arm out from in front of its face, but no dice. I guess for me it would depend if I could afford to "waste" the $125 if I didn't get a good picture. I'm kind of not the biggest fan of ultrasounds at this point, because they seem to bring me bad news in general, but if I were in your situation instead, I would almost certainly go for it and pay the money.

Megzy and JE: I can labor in the tub or the shower, at least until I get pain meds. Then it's all in bed after that, because even with just nubain they give you IV fluids and hook you up to a bunch of monitors that basically chain you to the bed. And obviously with an epidural you're stuck in bed since they don't do walking epidurals. I think I'll get a stool. This one seems the cheapest (I don't want to spend a bunch on something I might only use for 15 minutes!), but i don't know whether to get one with a back, like a chair, or without, like a stool.
http://www.birthwares.com/birthstools.html
What do you all think? The back might be nice to lean against, but then again, if I want to lean back really far the back would be in the way. Which would you get?

AFM: Another exhausting day. I worked a standard day, but then I cooked dinner for the next three nights to try to give myself a break from cooking for awhile. In my past life, I just would have gotten take-out or ordered pizza, but I am working SO hard to keep this baby from getting big that I just won't do that anymore! Only super-healthy food passes these lips until the bean becomes a peanut. I am already fantasizing about having someone bring pizza to the hospital for me to eat in recovery! Two women at work today told me that I "dropped", but I'm pretty sure they're wrong because I still have a foot in my ribs. The bean has been pretty active today (passed its kick count in 6 minutes!) after two days of laziness, so that's a relief. Tomorrow I am only working a half day, and taking my friend out to brunch first, because she is having some pretty severe post-partum depression, so I want her to be able to get out of the house without the baby. I'm really looking forward to starting to work from home. Hopefully I will be disciplined enough to keep up the walking 1.5-2 miles a day without the walk to and from work forcing me to do it!

wantingbabynumber2

12-15-2011, 11:37 AM

Rachel I honestly don't think you'd need the back support by the time you get to that point you will be curling forward or should be to push the baby out. The pressure at the top of the uterus from curling forward also helps push the baby down. Easier to do from sitting up but if laying in bed that is why they have moms grab thighs and pull forward. Plus gravity of sitting up helps. I think hospital beds suck for giving birth so much more work for the mom. But thats a whole soapbox issue haha.

jth0205

12-15-2011, 08:14 PM

Rachel - I hope you can find peace regarding your labor and delivery experience. Glad you are able to work from home. I love it and have been working from home more frequently these last few weeks. I'm with you - I will miss being pregnant. As I type, my LO's foot is protruding! My belly is moving all over the place. It's so amazing!

Ready - we've lost praises! Now, it's up to you and me! Thinking of you and hoping you're doing ok. My last day is supposed to be 12/22 as well. I too am feeling the pelvic pressure and saw some blood this morning. Though, with me the blood could be from anything! I've also had a lot of tightening lately and some mild cramping the last two days. I had a pretty intense contraction (not painful, just intense tightening) at one point yesterday and I couldn't walk through it. It literally stopped me in my tracks. Then, during my long (1 hour, 15 mins) commute home, I had another large one and thought I was going to have to pull over. Thankfully, it wasn't as intense as the one I had earlier. GL at your appointment tomorrow!

Supergal - if work wasn't so nutty right now, I'd have the hardest time concentrating! But the days go by really fast, and I try to take the time to enjoy the moments when my LO is moving a lot. It's a nice distraction in boring meetings! Was it you who mentioned being giddy, or giggling a lot more lately, a few weeks back? That has happened to me. Things tickle me now and I laugh harder than I ever have before. It feels good:)

Codi - So sorry you are sick. I hope you catch a break soon! Congrats to graduating to the bi-weekly appointments! If you do go the 3d/4d u/s route, I hope your baby girl cooperates. I'm hanging in - just having a lot of tightening and my legs, ankles and feet are really swollen, which is uncomfortable. I'm curious to see if I've made more progress when I go to my doc appt on Tues. At the same time, I'm anxious that I won't make it to my doc appt on Tues! Many at work think that he is coming this weekend. I'm hoping I at least have Saturday to finish up my to-do list.

Supergal

12-16-2011, 12:44 PM

Rachel- I don’t think you’ll need the back support either. The hospital we went to had these bars at the top of the bed you can hold onto and put against the leg rest so you can pull against it for leverage but can also lie back on pillows to rest. Hopefully they have that to help you with pushing. They said we could take the birthing balls into the showers but it might be worthwhile buying the shower chair if its not too pricey. We also don’t get walking epidurals which SUCK! But they have walk in Jacuzzi tubs which is a plus!

Wanting and JE- I’ve also heard good things about hypnobirthing. I’ll be hunting down some books this weekend. DH is very worried about how I’m going to deal so he can help me with the exercises.

Codi- I’m so glad the previa is gone! Whoopie! Glad the apt went well and u got to see DDs face! That’s so amazing! I decided to skip the 3D ultrasound cos it was pretty expensive $300 to 400. $125 doesn’t seem too bad if you’d really like to get a good look at her:) Or you can save the money for maternity/ new born shots? I’m also at the 2 weeks apts now...so exciting and nerve wracking at the same time!

Rachel- that’s so amazing you cooked after being so tired! I’m proud of you for avoiding the junk food! I hope you can keep up with the walking and have fun at brunch! It’s sweet of you to take out ur friend and I think it will be just as therapeutic for you to have some girl time. I hope LO isn't too big but you're doing all the right things to ensure you and LO are healthy so be proud of that.

Jth- I don’t think it was me but I’ve been much happier the last week! My mum is back on Monday and the holidays are so close! DH is taking a week off to spend with me! Plus I’m getting so excited about holding LO in a few weeks. You’re so close! I hope you get it all done but if you don’t its ok u’ll be holding your LO! So excited for you! I’m also struggling to get work finished.

AFM...so trying to juggle baby shower duties between BFFs and dramatic sister is not going too well. BFF is great and supportive but sis is offended BFF is involved even though she never mentioned wanting to throw the baby shower to me until I emailed her asking what days she was available. She keeps sending me dramatic emails about how she will help, then talks about her health and stepping on others toes etc. I emailed her back saying not to worry we all have tons going on so we’ll each do a bit instead of dumping everything on one person and got back another long email this morning...I just didn’t read it! GOSH! Way too much drama for me! I just want to be in my little happy world with DH, LO kicking away and enjoy the holidays!

Also I BOUGHT A CRIB! I got it from BRU. The shipping was $200 so I went instore. They didn’t have it in stock but the lady waived the shipping for me! I think I got it for a great price considering it’s Canada. It was $349. Now I have to decide if I should get the changer...its $300 marked down from $569...she's giving me an extra $100 off for buying two pieces. Here is the pic, what do you guys think? I initially was just going to buy a cheapie dresser/ changer but I’m so tempted to get the matching set now. What do you guys think?

here are the links:

http://www.toysrus.ca/product/index.jsp?productId=4465298
http://www.toysrus.ca/product/index.jsp?productId=4465295

Jillybn32

12-16-2011, 07:32 PM

Hi ladies,

Man it has been awhile. I have read all of your posts religiously so I know what's up with everyone :)

Super - Sorry for the baby shower drama. Sometimes you just want to tell people how it is! Your crib is adorable and the matching dresser/changer is too. I think you should get it if your budget permits but if not there are plenty of other options available. Sounds like you got a steal though!

jth - sounds like you are getting so close! That tightening definitely sounds like it may be progressing, your uterus will be nice and toned for birth. It is so fun to see everyone graduate from the pregnancy boards.

Rachel - I am so impressed you are so active. That is great. Hope LO continues to grow appropriately, soon she will be out so you won't have to worry. How nice will that be?

Codih - So sorry you're sick. It is not fair to be pregnant miserable and sick miserable. Glad for the great appt and you got to see LO really good. Sorry the doc was on you about your weight. However 27 pounds doesn't sound too horrible! I have gained soooo much, my docctor should probablly harp on me but he doesn't.

AFM - I am still in the hospital. 4 weeks and 2 days now I've been here. I am still preggo though! I am consistently contracting about every 10 minutes which sucks and at times is painful. It is so uncomfortable to move in bed now. I dread switching sides at night, my belly is so huge. They said if I make it to 34 weeks they will do a digital check and if I am not more dialated they will send me home then. Ah scary! I kind of feel safe here and don't want to go. BUT if I am more dialated, like 3-4 cm they will keep me. I have contracted so much I expect to be more dialated but we will see. Had a scare today with some fluid gushing down my leg but it was just a tiny bit and no more since so they aren't concerned at the moment. Basically they have said anything can happen at any moment, but it could also be a few weeks. Nobody knows. I am so grateful to have made it this far and really want to make my new goal of 34 weeks. Hope all is well with everyone else. I promise I am still here on the boards I just don't post a whole lot since the computer is at an akward angle.

praises1139

12-17-2011, 05:17 PM

Hi ladies, I hope you are doing well...i miss chatting with you!
I posted our boys' arrival on the pregnancy board and I'm really trying to finish my story and get pics on there. So busy!!!

Jill--glad to here from you...hang in there!!

esarah

12-18-2011, 02:24 AM

Jilly- I just wanted to say congratulations on getting this far and you are doing great, bedrest is tough, hospital bedrest is even harder. It is so worth it to get as far along as you can. I can totally empathize with you. Having had three out of four babies before 34 weeks and on bedrest for varying amounts of with with all of my babies, I have been there, not with twins though so I know it's a little different. 34 weeks is a great place to get! I hope you are able to make it a couple more weeks beyond but 34 weekers typically do very well and you have done so well getting to this point! Hang in there and good luck!

karidpt

12-18-2011, 09:17 AM

Jill, good job baking!, hope you can make it to 36 weeks!

Super, while the set is very cute, I never used the changing table. We always did it on the couch or bed.... However I bought a dresser and put a changing mattress on top.... So not actually a changing table, but similar. But, the only money lost was the $30 on the mattress... If I had bought a specific changing table it would have been a total waste. I would go for the dresser with a changing mattress on top. The one you picked is similar to a dresser, but for that price You could one with a lot more storage that could continue to be used when the baby is even in elementary school.

Praises, congrats!

KMCarpeDiem

12-19-2011, 10:45 PM

Anyone have any experience with PUPPS?? I think I have this rash on my belly and let me tell you it is straight from hell!! I'm going to ask the doc about it on Wednesday at my appointment.

praises1139

12-19-2011, 11:04 PM

Finally got.my story posted!! Very hard to do on a phone too...lol

rachelttc

12-20-2011, 12:42 AM

Hi all! I've been trying to check in for AGES, but it keeps telling me the site is down! Frustrating.

Super: I am a firm believer in avoiding drama whenever you can. A sense of calm gratitude is my goal everyday, although I often don't manage it!

For me, I wouldn't bother with the matching changing table. It seems pretty pricey for something that looks just like a dresser! I expect a changing table to have little rails or something to help you feel like the kid will be secure. My changing table came with a little seatbelt to strap the kid in just in case you have to run get a new pack of wipes or something like that. Also, my friend's baby has been over to our house a lot, and we have used the table exactly ZERO times. We have used the couch with a changing blanket like 20 times, the table a few times, and the changing tray in our pack and play once.

jth: how's it going? Any more contractions taking your breath away?

wanting: thanks for your input!

Jilly: good luck with your new goal! are you sick of hospital food yet?

KM: sorry, no experience with PUPPS, but I do have a rash on my hands, mostly in the thumb web and pinky web.

praises: I'm so excited we finally get to see pictures. They don't look small enough to be twins! What a great job you did baking them!

AFM: My parents are visiting (because my midwives won't let me travel home for Christmas), and tonight I babysat for my best friends. (Yep, the ones my husband blabbed the names to.) So they came to pick up the baby, and they came in and started talking about names. I asked them over and over to stop. They wouldn't. Then they started joking about names I would pick. Then my parents started digging for hints about the names.

That's when I *flipped* out! I screamed at them, told them I had asked them four times to stop, and then I left. I took the dogs and went on a long walk and cried. When I got back, my friends were gone. I know that I'm overemotional from hormones and whatever, but my friends are being such a**holes. They know that I was upset that they tricked my husband into telling them the names, why would they think that it would be ok to joke about it now? Not to mention they were jerks in the first places to not just respect my wish to keep the names secret. They're leaving town soon, which I think is for the best, because I don't really want to see them for awhile.

So I'm having a rough evening, and it's making me doubt everything. I'm mad, I took care of a grumpy baby all night, and I'm feeling overwhelmed, and it's made me feel like maybe I was wrong to want a baby so much. I know that's horrible to say, especially with so many people still waiting to get pregnant! I'm worried that I'm never going to have any time for myself ever again, and just get to listen to screaming for the next however many years. Is it possible to get postpartum depression before you give birth? Because I'm feeling really negative tonight.

praises1139

12-20-2011, 01:14 AM

Rachel--so sorry about your rude friends....believe me, hormones can make you go from super happy to depressed in 5 seconds flat. So just tell yourself over and over,'it's the hormones, this is going to be ok'
U will get through it!! Your health, including mental, is #1. U can't take care of baby if u are falling apart. So just keep that in mind.

jth0205

12-20-2011, 01:02 PM

Supergal - love your crib! Did you go for the changing table?

Jilly - way to hang in there! You're doing a great job!

Rachel - I'm really sorry about your friends. I hope they feel awful about it! Why upset the pregnant lady - really?! I hope you are feeling better about it all today. You were justified in your frustration. I'm told over and over that it's different when it's your own kids. I've always enjoyed being around children, but there are a few in our family who are VERY spoiled and it's all I can do to spend any time with them. I really think it will be different with your own baby.

Praises - looking forward to reading your story!

Ready - where are you? Thinking about you:)

afm - I just got back from the doctor. I am 3 to 4 centimeters and 80% effaced! Doc did the membrane sweep. It didn't hurt when he did it. I've yet to feel any contractions, but I'm obviously having them. So, now I'm trying to pay more attention to any tightening I'm having and seeing if there is a pattern. Doctor said 70% of the time when the do the membrane sweep active labor starts within 48 hours. I'm really hoping it will happen tonight! My MIL's bday is tomorrow and with all the baby excitement and trying to finish up at work and clean and prepare at home, I completely forgot to send her something. While I worry about Luke sharing her bday for his sake, it would be the ultimate bday gift for her and get me off the hook for forgetting to send her a gift!

Supergal

12-20-2011, 08:50 PM

Yey! The site is finally up!

Praises- thanks for sharing your story! Missed hearing from you! The boys are so adorable! Hoping Silas will be ready to go home very soon!

Jilly- great to hear from you and amazing job baking those babies! I’m overly paranoid so I would prefer to stay in the hospital as much as possible although I’m sure you are sick of it by now. Sending lots of good vibes and prayers your way!

KMC- sorry I haven’t had pupps...doesn’t sound pleasant...hope it goes away soon!

Rachel- sorry your friends are being such idiots! How could they let your parents know that they know even after you told them! Ugh! Try not to think about them. I also have doubts about taking care of LO and how our lives will change....then feel super guilty. I think its normal and hopefully once LO is here all those doubts will disappear. DH and I talk about how our lives will change all the time. Maybe you just need to talk it out and don’t feel guilty about having some anxiety about LOs arrival. Depression is possible before delivery. I have bad days too and I try to make sure I get out and do things to get myself in a better mood. Def the hormones!

Jth- hope your labour comes on soon and is quick! LOL to MIL’s present! I’ve done hardly any Christmas shopping I feel horrid plus the stuff I ordered online didn’t come yet so it will be a lot of printouts in cards under the tree. LOL!

Thanks for the compliments re the crib! I’m so excited to have it delivered! My mum was surprised at the price too since it is quiet sturdy compared to other stuff in that price range. We decided not to get the changer after reading everyone’s comments plus DH didn’t think it was worth the $. We’re just gonna grab something with a similar stain from Ikea and use a changing pad on top.

My mum is back and keeps feeling LO kick and giggles she is so excited! LO also discovered my ribs and has been scratching or tickling for an hour now. It's such a funny feeling! OB apt went great, gained 2 lbs and my mum came with me and heard the heartbeat :)

My nipples are SOOO itchy at nite and getting a tiny bit scaley...OB brushed it off...family DR thinks its eczema and said to use baby aveeno. I find it weird that it only happens at nite...anyone have this?

readytogo

12-20-2011, 08:56 PM

HI everyone! Sorry to be out of the loop!

jth -- no worries, I didn't leave you all. Actually, I tend to log in at 5 a.m. east coast time just as I'm waking up for work, and that's of course always when the site is down...oh well! WOW! You are almost there. I hope your active labor starts soon since it sounds like you're ready for that! You have made so much progress on your own, that's really impressive. I hope that will be me in a couple weeks.

Rachel -- I think all your feelings are justified. I've been having mild freak out moments myself. Not provoked by anyone or anything, just the thought that in less than two weeks I'll be 40 weeks pregnant and there could be a baby here any minute. Everyone freaks us out about how much of a huge life change a baby is. It's normal to feel overwhelmed. Like Praises said, though, try to keep your cool and bring your baby into a home of peace as much as possible. Easier said than done, I realize. I struggle with this myself.

Jilly -- way to hang in there! I'm really impressed with your stamina and hope you make it to 34 weeks (isn't that tomorrow for you??) or beyond!

afm -- hanging in there. I have two more days of work. Every little thing my students do wrong these days is annoying the crap out of me. On a happier note, though, some of my alumni students from the past five years are coming back tomorrow after school to throw me a baby shower at school. I'm really touched by the fact that 18-22 year olds in college would think to do something so sweet for me over their winter breaks. I'm looking forward to seeing them all, and I know they're going to freak out when they see how enormous my stomach is! Otherwise, as long as I don't go into labor tomorrow or Thursday, I;m good. I don't think that will be happening. Since my 36 week appointment I haven't made any further progress, which is fine! I am starting to get tired, though! I'll find out at Thursday's 38 week appt. if I'm any closer to labor.

codih

12-20-2011, 11:02 PM

Ready- That is so sweet of your students! How precious! You're getting so close to meeting your little girl!

Super- My nips get dry and scaly too, but it doesn't only happen at night. That is strange. So cute that your mom is enjoying the kicks! My mom is super excited too! We did something similar with furniture. We bought a crib with a finish that closely matched my furniture from when I was a baby. We'll use the dresser with a changing pad on top as a changing table. My mom happened to find the pad at a yard sale for $2! It's like new! Getting the crib is so exciting!

Jth- I hope labor comes for you soon! It sounds like you are close. That would be a great substitute present for your MIL :p

Rachel- Sorry about your friends. It's rough when people don't respect your wishes. I don't blame you for being upset with them. I too freak out about being able to take care of a newborn. I've never really been around a lot of babies, so I'm afraid that I won't know what I'm doing. I've been told b a friend of mine that is a new mom without any previous baby experience that you learn quickly. I also worry about how much our lives will change, but the same friend tells me that none of that matters when the baby comes. Baby is number 1 and that's ok since you love him/her so much! I use her words as comfort that all will be ok!

KM- I've never even heard of PUPPS....sorry. Sounds like it's not fun at all.

Jill- Good job on hanging in there!

AFM- Thanks for all of the get well wishes! I'm feeling better, but I'm still stopped up. It's to the point that I can't hear out of one ear and I have this awful taste in my mouth when there is drainage. I'm questioning if the antibiotics are working properly...what's rough is that I don't think there's much else I can take. I'm just glad that I don't feel like walking death anymore! It's been a long time since I've been that sick.

I'm wanting so bad to work on the nursery, but since we're still in limbo about our housing situation I can't. I've got plans to go ahead and start crafting up some things. It's so frustrating! My belly is so big now that I can't see my feet. I got my first rib kick today...luckily, it was light and barely tapped my ribs. The reality of the impending baby arrival is starting to set in. It's so weird to think that in less than 3 months I will be holding my little girl!

lighthouse830

12-21-2011, 08:37 AM

super- it could be colostrom that is coming out and drying on you. That happens to me at the end. use a warm wet washcloth sitting there for a few minutes to soften it and it'll come out. It makes me itchy when that happens. Hopefully it's just something as simple as that for you! It used to happen at night for me too.

KMCarpeDiem

12-21-2011, 08:22 PM

Hello ladies!

jth- hope you have your sweet baby soon! What good progress!

Super- my nipples dont get itchy per say but I have noticed white crusty (tmi i know) pieces on my nipples at night and i am pretty sure that is colostrum.

AFM- went to the doctor today. Baby A is measuring 3 pounds and 3 ounces (we believe this is Lee Ann- she's always been bigger and more active. She's head down but diagonal across my belly from the bottom left to the upper right) and Baby B is measuring 2 pounds and 15 ounces (this is Anna Kate...she is transverse on top of Lee Ann with her head at my ribs on the left and her feet at my ribs on the right...next to Lee Ann's...4 feet all on the right side at my ribs!!!)
My cervix was 3.1 which is shorter that a month ago (11/29 it was 3.8) so I am going back next week to measure again. Im wondering if the BH contractions are now doing something even thought they are somehwhat under control with procardia, or if it's becasue I am getting so big!
I do indeed have PUPPS (it is so awful....i never wish this on anyone!!!!!) They gave me a prescription for a strong steroid cream so we are going to try that with the other tricks I've been using....benadryl and oatmeal baths. This rash starts on the abdomen in the stretch marks (which mine look awful!!! like i fought with a rabid animal) and can spread down the legs, on the arms, and to the back. It itches and burns! Like little fire ant bites...and it has made me cry the past couple of days so I hope this prescription stuff works wonders! It won't go away until sometime after birth....blah.

Other than that everything seems to be great! I'll update next week!

DH finally took some maternity pictures of me. Once they are edited I will post a couple. (we are photographers on the side). It was kinda fun!

I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season! :)

jth0205

12-22-2011, 07:44 AM

Just a quick note - sorry no personals. I just posted a new thread with a few pictures. Luke Daniel arrived yesterday (12/21) at 8:39 a.m. All is well! He is perfect. Glad he showed up when he did!

Tink

12-22-2011, 08:16 AM

KM- I have cervical issues with my pregnancies and got weekly u/s measurements from 14w on. By the time you get into the 3rd tri, your cervix naturally starts to shorten a bit. 3.1 is still a good number! Good luck at your next u/s :)

rachelttc

12-22-2011, 05:52 PM

jth: awesome work! congratulations!

codih

12-22-2011, 10:26 PM

KM- I hope you get to feeling better. I'm glad the babies are measuring good. My LO was 2 lbs 10 oz last week, so our babies are growing about the same!

Ya'll I had a a mini-nervous breakdown a few minutes ago. I've got so much going on right now, I feel like I'm being robbed of the pre-baby bliss that I should be feeling. My mind started racing about all of the things I've got: I'm stressed about being a first time parent, I've got this nasty sinus infection, It's Christmas (which I'm not a huge of fan of everything that comes with it: the stress, commercialism, etc...I feel like people miss the true meaning), I miss my family and doing all the things that I did with them this time of year (hunting with my dad and brother, spending time shopping and looking at Christmas lights with my mom) before everything changed when I moved away and my parents got divorced, We just found out that we need to move out by Feb 1 and we can't even begin the house-buyng process because of the holidays and financing hold-ups, due to the moving I'm probably not going to get to go on the hunting trip with my dad and brother for financial and time reasons, work is more stressful than usual, we're going to have to move twice because we won't have a house to move into by the time we have to be out of ours, and of course there are financial worries.

I should be excited and preparing Lily's room for her arrival, but no...I'm packing boxes with no idea of when I can put her nursery together or how long it will take to get a house of our own. I swear this doesn't happen often. It's just a bad mix of normal stress-producing events happening at once. I'm a counselor, I should know how to keep my anxiety under control, but there are times when I just can't. I isolated myself from DH when I started getting worked up, which he hates. I know he's more stressed than he tries to let on. We both have a hard time letting our emotions show. I just needed some alone time to cope with my emotions and let it out. I got myself so worked up earlier that I had a couple of contractions. I'm ok now and so is LO. Sorry for the long, ranting post. Writing and talking to understanding others are my coping skills, so I'm using them :) Thanks for reading!

readytogo

12-24-2011, 09:10 AM

KM -- so sorry about the PUPPS. That sounds truly awful. I hope it gets healed soon.

codi -- You have every right to feel the way you do. Although I am not away from my family, I have had an estranged relationship with them in the past, so I know it's hard to have a different relationship with them as we get older. As for moving, there is never a good time to move, but I am sure it is quite stressful to be in your situation right now. I am sure you would like nothing more than to feel settled, and obviously that is hard in your situation. Just remember that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and this too shall pass. Total cliches, I know, but keeping that in mind is one of my best coping mechanisms when I'm feeling overwhelmed. Hope things improve soon!

Speaking of coping, earlier this week I was having a rough time because I was so close to the end of my teaching year before maternity leave kicked in, but I was so overwhelmed by how much I had to get done. Great news is that I walked out of work on Thursday afternoon with all my work complete and a huge grin on my face. I may not go back to teaching until August 2013, so it still hasn't kicked in that I am really done for a while because it just feels like I'm on winter break like everyone else, but especially if this baby isn't here by her Jan. 2 due date when everyone else, including my husband, goes back to work I bet it will start to kick in by then.

Also on Thursday I had my 38-week appointment, and it turns out I'm now 80% effaced and close to 2 cm dilated. I had some blood-streaked mucus Thursday late night (which I thought might be my "bloody show" and promptly told DH to clean up his clothes off the floor so I could come home from the hospital to a clean house :) but I think it turns out that it was just a side effect of my cervical check, even though I've never spotted from one before. Right now DH and I are just hanging out, reading books, watching movies, seeing friends from out of town, going to holiday parties, and doing some laundry. I am really not uncomfortable at all, so we would be fine with her deciding to arrive on her due date so we can continue to rest up for the big event!!!

rachelttc

12-26-2011, 02:54 AM

ready: I'm glad you're feeling comfortable! I hope it helps you to be rested and calm when your baby does arrive.

codih: I'm so sorry that your life is upside down right now. Having a baby and moving are two of life's most stressful events, and to be doing them both at the same time would make me so anxious, so just focus on taking care of yourself.

KM: sorry about the pupps. Are the steroids working at all?

AFM: I had an awful migraine (with nausea and vomiting) on Friday night/Saturday morning. After 8 hours, tylenol PM, and plain tylenol making no dent, I called my midwife. She said go ahead and take advil, fioricet, whatever works for me normally. Luckily that worked, and I got some sleep, but I still had a headache all day Saturday. I was concerned that it had lasted so long, so I went to walmart and used the free blood pressure machine, and it read 134 over 88 (it had been 110/62 at my 32 and 34 week appointments). I called again, and they weren't concerned. But I bought a blood pressure cuff anyway, and today it has been between 140/90 and 150/100. I am pretty sure these are signs of pre-eclampsia, but the midwives office really doesn't think it's a big deal because my face isn't swollen and the bean is still moving plenty. They said I can come in monday if I want to. Which I do. I think they think I'm a hypochondriac.

And they might be right, it's just hard for me not to want to be on the safe side. Luckily my husband has been very supportive. He cleaned up all my barf bags, brought me water, rubbed my head and back, and he assured me that I was right to call in even though it was a holiday weekend. It's so nice that he isn't living 200 miles away right now! I don't know how I would be dealing with this alone.

I've also started having pitting edema in my ankles. Delightful! I guess it's those "late pregnancy discomforts" everyone talks about. I started evening primrose oil at night to try to start ripening my cervix a bit. Fingers crossed the bean comes before my due date instead of after!

EJ1008

12-26-2011, 03:10 AM

Rachel - It's your baby -- you have every right to want to be on the safe side! Hope all checks out well with the midwife's on Monday.

KMCarpeDiem

12-26-2011, 08:42 AM

I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday! My in-laws are coming in town today and staying for a few days so that will be the second celebration for us. They are also going to help us get the nursery finished and put together the changing table. (We ordered our cribs but it will be a few weeks to come in...what a fiasco at babies r us....)

I return to the doctor on wednesday....my ankles/feet/toes and hands are now swelling. The PUPPPS is driving me bonkers....the cream helps some but if it was to stop the spread, it's not working. My belly is better but it has moved down my thighs to my knees and I think it's starting on my ankles, it's under my arms and down to my wrists and is now under my breasts. I only got three small tubes of the cream but with so much surface area to cover now they are not going to last until I can refil them (jan 15th..stupid insurance). I am going to ask about it again at my appointment. I also take benadryl at night to help me sleep through the itchiness.

Other than that Im doing pretty well :) I am trying to stay positive...I remember saying to DH that perhaps i had no morning sickness becasue i would suffer later down the road since i was carrying twins....maybe this is what I meant? I also remember telling God that i would walk through fire for these babies and I meant it....so firey skin? clever....

Rachel- you had every right to call despite what they think. Your body, your baby and mama knows best! I am firm believer in being your own advocate for health care becasue not everyone does it....so keep calling if you feel something is wrong! You have every right too!

codih

12-28-2011, 08:26 PM

Been pretty slow around here. I guess the holidays has everyone otherwise occupied. I know I'm glad that Christmas is over, but I'm excited about spending next year with my little girl! I hope everyone had a good holiday!

KM- That is an interesting theory about having a easy first tri to let you rest until you have a difficult 3rd tri. It's possible! That sounds really awful! I hope that the itchiness subsides soon! I'm sorry you're having to go through this. We also had a bit of a fiasco with BRU for our crib. My MIL ordered it and wanted to pick it up in the store to save on shipping, but she accidentally didn't click that option. She called right after she placed the order and they said that they couldn't edit the order, but they could cancel it and re-do the order and it would take 7 days to refund her money from the first order...craziness. So she had to spend $30 on shipping that she hadn't intended to due to them being difficult.

Rachel- Thanks for the encouragement! I'd be worried about the BP too. The edema in your ankles could be due to your elevated BP. Do they check your urine each visit?

Ready- Thanks for the kind words! My stress level goes up and down depending on my mood. Glad you're getting some rest before D Day! I hope that your LO has either already arrived or will be here soon! I can't wait to hear!

Super- How are you?????

Soooo I had my 3D/4D u/s today. I wasn't going to have it done since it costs $125 and we're tight on money as it is because of moving. Plus, she hasn't cooperated with any other u/s, so it may be a waste of money. When I called to cancel the appointment, I got really upset ad cried. So, I decided that with all the stress I needed something positive. As expected, she didn't cooperate. She's as stubborn as we are :p We still got some decent pictures. I was kind upset and disappointed that she wasn't cooperating until I got back to work and took another look at the pics and saw that you could see more than I thought. She's precious! Chubby cheeks and lips! I will try to post a pic if I can ever get it to send from my phone.

readytogo

12-28-2011, 10:36 PM

codi -- Glad you got some pics you like!

Yes, it is definitely slow around here, and now I am officially playing the waiting game. Today at my 39-week appointment I was officially at 2 cm, which I guess is progress because last week I was close to 2 cm, whatever that means. At the end of my appointment I asked the doctor if she does the membrane scraping thing I'd heard jth mention a while back. Then my doctor was like, "Yes, I actually did that today." Then I realized that's why the cervical check lasted a little longer than usual and it felt like she was really...uhh...up in there, for lack of a better description. If I haven't delivered by then I go back on Tuesday, and then they schedule an induction date. I really want to avoid being induced, so tomorrow I plan to take several long walks, maybe some more exercise, anything to start this process along. I'm still not tired of being pregnant, just bothered by the thought of induction. I will keep you posted!

MegzyAngel

12-28-2011, 11:07 PM

rachelttc

12-29-2011, 07:40 PM

EJ, codih, Megzy & KM: Thanks for the support. They had me come in on Monday and tested my urine for protein. It was trace to negative. So that's good. And my BP has been going down. It was 150/100 Sunday, then 120/85 Monday, and 112/75 today. The midwife said its probably labile hypertension rather than preeclampsia, and she said that slightly higher BP is common in women with giant babies? I had never heard that, but whatever. I googled it, and couldn't find anything about it. So for now I will just keep an eye on it, and be glad my BP has gone back down.

Megzy: I'm sorry they didn't catch it sooner for you. It's surprising to me how some practices test urine every appointment from so many weeks on, and some don't test at ALL unless you have high BP.

Today at my 36 week appointment she checked my cervix and said it was long and closed, which is what they want. (That's not particularly what I want, because this kid is so big already, but I don't have much choice!). I did ask her if it was still hard, and she said it wasn't hard. So at least it's softening? Maybe that's a sign it will start effacing soonish?

And my husband got to watch the whole thing, which is good, because he has been completely unable to find my cervix and check it for me. So hopefully he will be able to find it tonight! My weight is back down again too, which is probably from the swelling going down or something, so I'm back to 12 pounds gained!

I hope you all had a good week, and that the boards pick up again soon!

EJ1008

12-29-2011, 09:55 PM

Rachel - Glad to see everything checked out OK. Here's to hoping you're effaced and dilated soon. You never know -- things could progress quickly.

KMCarpeDiem

12-30-2011, 09:00 AM

Ready- Good luck in the waiting game! I hope she arrives soon!

AFM- had an appointment this past wednesday. They checked my cervix again and lo and behold is lengthened back out....to 3.9! They think the 3.1 was becasue baby A's head was just pushing on it (would that mean a dynamic cervix?) Babies now weigh 3 pounds and 5 ounces each and boy have they been active lately! Got some great 4D pictures as well but only of Baby B....Baby A has her head way down and was looking at my spine. The tech also thinks they both have hair! Cute! They also put me on oral prednisone to combat this rash....so far it's working wonders but I will have to stay on it until delivery and at delivery they will have to give me some special medication in my IV to counter act the steroids just in case (something about adrenal gland function) My MIL went with me to the appt and I think she really enjoyed it....these are her first grandbabies.

My hubby and FIL and I have almost got the nursery finished and the changing table has been put together. I started setting aside some items to pack in my hospital bag (i wanted my own gripper socks, nursing tanks and bras, some t-shirts, yoga pants to go home in, PJ pants to wear when visitors are around, travel toiletries....) Any other suggestions?

ALSO i was thinking of packing somethings for the girls besides the going home outfits...depneding on if they have NICU time or not I was thinking of bringing those small mittens so they wont scratch their faces and some simple onesies to wear in the room when visitors are around? Good idea/bad idea?

Hope everyone had a great Christmas and is looking forward to the New year! I know I am! :) :) :)

jessicaileen

12-30-2011, 01:18 PM

Megan - I highly recommend packing extra pairs of undies and make sure they are the granny panties kind...ones that you can just throw away after use since you'll probably bled heavily and might have to trash some of them. Also, take your own pads (hospital ones are HUGE!). I also wish I had my own refillable water bottle with me so maybe take one if you have one. Also, take lots of snacks for in between meals or when your up with the babies in the middle of the night and get hungry. I didn't take any clothes for DS except for his take home outfit but I wish I would have cause the hospital onsies aren't very cute. I would take a few pairs of clothes for them and definately take the mittens too. Don't forget little socks too! Oh and a few small blankets!

Tink

12-30-2011, 01:42 PM

double check your hospital rules on baby clothes. Our must be in the white hospital shirt and the blue and pink cap until they are discharged. We can't even bring our own blankets. It's for security reasons (no one knows baby's gender). I thought it was lame at first, but was grateful to not have the extra laundry when I got home (they make enough laundry as it is!!). Plus, your LOs will most likely be swaddled all the time anyway, so no one really sees what they're wearing ;)

rachelttc

12-30-2011, 02:02 PM

KM: I just finished packing my bags, so I have some suggestions:

tennis ball or massager to use during labor

pen and paper to write down what happens when (you will forget most of your own labor, and if your husband is like mine, he'll forget too!)

your own pillow (hospital pillows are kind of rubbery)

baby blankets (it might be cold when you take your babies out to the car?)

breath mints (you might vomit several times during labor or from anesthesia)

swim suits for you and partner if you plan to labor in tub

baby book (the nurses will likely put the footprints in your baby book when they do them for their records)

As for baby mittens, I would suggest bringing baby emory boards instead (they come in most baby toiletry kits). They are safer and easier to use than clippers, and keep your babies from scratching themselves. Of course it's your decision, but our hospital does NOT recommend baby mittens. Infants use their hands to explore the world and soothe themselves, so having them covered up all the time is frustrating for them, and keeps them from being able to recognize things by touch since all they feel is mittens.

AFM: I think my bean dropped yesterday! I had to pee about a hundred times last night, and when I would lean forward, I felt like I had to fart, but I didn't. So maybe that's what they mean by "increased pelvic pressure"?

Oh, and in the TMI zone, my husband FINALLY was able to feel my cervix last night! We had been trying all week during our perineal massages and he just could not figure out what was going on in there! So now he can check me and give me some idea if I am effacing or dilating. Also, we found out that the perineal massage (which is not a massage, it's just painful) is much less uncomfortable if he uses his index and middle fingers instead of his thumbs like the internet recommends. So in case anyone else is starting on the awkward road of perineal massage, feel free to ask for advice now that I think we've got it figured out!

chelseaf

12-30-2011, 03:39 PM

On baby mittens, The little t-shirt that they have in the hospital actually has a fold that you can cover their hands with. The only thing I brought for baby was her going home outfit and blanket.

I packed really light and the only thing I had someone bring me was my laptop since I forgot it. My house was right down the street from the hospital so I went in thinking, if I need anything someone can just bring it, but came to find out, I didn't need much!
I wore the hospital gown the entire time and the mesh panties they give you. I also used their shampoo, soap, all that kind of stuff. I honestly didn't care about how I looked lol.

KMCarpeDiem

12-30-2011, 05:03 PM

Thanks for the suggestions. I have weekly appointments now and my first NST on wednesday which they do in the hospital so I will ask about the clothing. I dont have any baby emery boards so I should put that on the list. I did plan on taking my own pillows and the baby blankets....didnt think about socks LOL! I do plan on taking my own undies, i need to buy some more. I plan to wear the hospital gowns and mesh panties UNLESS people are visiting and I know they will be. I wanted to look a little bit more presentable. As far as labor goes if Baby B is still breech then I'll have a c-section and Im ok with that. I will bring some snacks for hubby and i and now some gum!

I also live very close to the hospital, my parents live here and inlaws will be staying at our house for the birth so I too can send people back and forth if need be.

Theres a lot we still havnt gotten....we have one more shower in 2 weeks and I know my co-workers will do something for me as well so hopefully I'll have everything I need as long as these girls decide to stay put for 6-7 more weeks! :)

Anything else you guys think of let me know! :)

Supergal

12-30-2011, 10:29 PM

Hi guys! Sorry I’ve been MIA. DH is off this week and bro decided to stay with us after our big Christmas dinner. First one in our house so it was definitely special. I over did it of course and ended up having to take Tylenol just to get to sleep 2 days in a row. So exciting that everyone is packing their hospital bags and getting ready for next year. I’m getting really excited now and letting myself plan for life after LO arrives. Hope to catch up on personals soon! I hope you all had an amazing Christmas and Happy New Year!

codih

12-31-2011, 10:00 AM

RE hospital bags: I packed Lily's the other day. I decided to go ahead and do it in case she comes before we move into a house. I wanted to be sure that I had everything I wanted. I packed like 5 outfits, lol! Here in FL, you never know what the weather is going to be like in February and March, so I packed different sizes and for different weather. I also packed 2 blankets, a burp cloth, socks, 2 hats, and a nursing cover in case I need to nurse while people are in the room that I don't want to see my girls. I've read that it's good to take your own pacifier, so I'll pack one of those when I get one. And I've read that it's good to take the manicure set, because some hospitals don't provide that. I'll pack my bag in a few weeks.

Super- Sounds like you have been busy!!

Rachel- Yay for baby dropping! You're getting closer!

We're moving our stuff out 2 weeks from today. I'm trying to pack things, but I start having contractions if I'm up too much or doing too much. I told my OB about it and he said that I have to just take it easy and make DH do everything, but the control freak in me won't let that happen, lol. I am trying to take it easy though.

Happy New Year everyone!! 2012 will bring our babies into our arms!!

praises1139

12-31-2011, 10:33 AM

KM---U will want the babies to wear t-shirts, long sleeves, because of their belly button. Then just swaddle them up to keep warm. U can do socks too, but take those off for diaper changes!!! We haven't needed mittens.

Our babies had hospital bands--one on wrist and one on ankle--and alarm anklets..they were kinda cool! If the baby goes past a certain point, the alarm sounds.

What I could not survive without!!!...

Mesh underwear---I remember Landbttc only went home with one pair and had to wash daily so I asked for more--they are so comfy and stretchy--I had outgrown my bigger pregnancy undies but didnt want to buy more.

Squirt bottle--this thing is awesome...it also help with BMs if u know what I mean!!! Take your Colace!!!

Blue pads--those things they lay on the hospital bed--giant pads--they will show you how to fold them up and put them in your panties...they are awesome because they are so soft, whereas regular pads can chaff you and not stay in place---you'll need these the first week maybe and then again at 2wks when your uterus does most of its contracting. Take it easy if bright red blood returns, get some rest

Ice pack--if your bum hurts, ask.for an ice pack--not those ones you shake--those suck and last about 2mins--your nurse can make you a better one out of a baby diaper

Pain meds--stay on top of these if you have a really bad tear or c-section

Chapstick and lotion---dry hospital air

If Breastfeeding--hospital pump, nursing tank, nursing pads, hydrogels

Snacks!!!! Drink lots of water, take your prenatals and Colace

Inflatable donut pillow--a must for sitting in the car or a chair!! If u tore

Ask for those no-slip hospital socks, wear comfy clothes