36w4d
Had my 36-week check-up this morning. Dr. D checked me and found that I am 60% effaced, but no dilation yet. I am just so glad to hear that we have some progress and my cervix isn't going to hold out like Fort Knox (knock on wood!). Elfie's head is low, but not engaged in the pelvis yet. I'm just hoping he stays head down! BH contractions are also definitely increasing in frequency and intensity. Yay!
My energy level seems to have increased in the past few days...but maybe it's because I have a new determination to get the house clean and be as physically active as I can! I mowed the lawn yesterday, and surprisingly did just fine with it. I thought it would wipe me out, but I felt great the rest of the day! This is such a wonderful feeling...maybe I truly CAN enjoy my pregnancy for these last final weeks!!!
Showing posts with label symptoms. Show all posts
Showing posts with label symptoms. Show all posts
Monday, August 9, 2010
Monday, August 2, 2010
The latest
35w4d
My goodness, where to begin? I feel like I have so much to say, and can't organize my thoughts. I have been an extremely bad blogger lately for a variety of reasons. This pregnancy is literally kicking my butt, and I didn't want this blog to turn into a forum for all my complaints. I'm a little bit over that now, as I feel I should be honest with myself and the world that it isn't all sunshine and roses for everyone!
Back when I was TTCing and undergoing treatments, I never dreamt that I'd someday be here, almost 36 weeks pregnant and actually wishing I wasn't pregnant anymore! It's an awful feeling after everything I've been through to get here, and all the years of longing for a baby inside of me. There are aspects of being pregnant that I love: feeling him move, bonding with him, reading and singing to him, watching him grow, knowing he's thriving, and dreaming of the day I meet him. Obviously, though, there are things about being pregnant that I can live without. I need to remind myself DAILY that this is sooooo temporary, that it WILL end soon, that I need to be more appreciative of this time, that it will become a distant memory...(so many people tell me that there's an amnesia we get after giving birth about all the icky pregnancy stuff that allows us to want to become pregnant again!), AND that the reason I am doing this is because for the rest of my life I will get the privilege of being this little boy's mommy -- a gift that compares with nothing, and a love that isn't matched.
I'm bulleting the last month because there's just too much:
My goodness, where to begin? I feel like I have so much to say, and can't organize my thoughts. I have been an extremely bad blogger lately for a variety of reasons. This pregnancy is literally kicking my butt, and I didn't want this blog to turn into a forum for all my complaints. I'm a little bit over that now, as I feel I should be honest with myself and the world that it isn't all sunshine and roses for everyone!
Back when I was TTCing and undergoing treatments, I never dreamt that I'd someday be here, almost 36 weeks pregnant and actually wishing I wasn't pregnant anymore! It's an awful feeling after everything I've been through to get here, and all the years of longing for a baby inside of me. There are aspects of being pregnant that I love: feeling him move, bonding with him, reading and singing to him, watching him grow, knowing he's thriving, and dreaming of the day I meet him. Obviously, though, there are things about being pregnant that I can live without. I need to remind myself DAILY that this is sooooo temporary, that it WILL end soon, that I need to be more appreciative of this time, that it will become a distant memory...(so many people tell me that there's an amnesia we get after giving birth about all the icky pregnancy stuff that allows us to want to become pregnant again!), AND that the reason I am doing this is because for the rest of my life I will get the privilege of being this little boy's mommy -- a gift that compares with nothing, and a love that isn't matched.
I'm bulleting the last month because there's just too much:
- The painful contractions have subsided, meaning I don't have to rely on the terbutaline to keep me sane. I do, however, continue to have frequent BH contractions.
- Our family and friends threw us an amazing couples' baby shower and we had a blast seeing everyone all together!
- M and I have attended 2 out of our three classes: the all-day childbirth class, which was EXCELLENT (I learned so much about the actual labor process and what to expect from our hospital); and the breastfeeding class, which helped calm some of my anxieties. This Thursday we will go to Newborn Care class to finish up the series.
- Starting at 32 weeks I developed a pinched nerve right next to my belly button that caused excruciating pain when I stood up or walked around. It lasted until 34.5 weeks, although my doc had said that could very well be painful throughout the rest of my pregnant days. This was awful for me, since the only way I could get relief was to sit or lie down to take the pressure from the weight of Elfie off my belly button. I was banished to the couch and could really only get up to go to the bathroom before it got too painful. SO GLAD that it's gone now...knock on wood! Oh yes, at one point it was so bad that my friend was visiting from out-of-town and she took me to Wal.Mart and pushed me around in a wheelchair just so I could get some shopping done! Talk about humiliating (and hilarious all at the same time!).
- My pelvis feels like it's being ripped apart.
- Elfie's room is totally complete, and I promise I'll post some pics soon. It's my happy place :) I even have all his 0-3 month clothes washed and ready.
- I'm not getting enough sleep (yes, I know that this is preparation for what's to come!) because my hips ache and Elfie either throws a dance party or has long-lasting hiccups in the middle of the night. Every. Night.
- I am experiencing horrible pain and pressure right on the top of my pelvis from the weight of this kid. It's constant, and makes walking very difficult. It sort of feels like any muscles right there are being torn on a daily basis.
- I can't breathe and become winded and sweaty even just sitting on the couch talking on the phone in my air-conditioned house.
- We have our hospital bag packed. Yowza. I think this might just be real.
- I can no longer shave my legs. It's embarrassing how disgusting I'm sure they are, and the same goes for my feet. I need a pedicure just to clip my toenails...which grow at the rate of the weeds in my backyard that I can't bend over to pick.
- Getting dressed is a CHORE, and NOTHING fits anymore, so I do laundry every other day for the 5 items I can still wear. I'll be damned if I'm buying anything new now!
- And while we're on the subject of clothes, none of my bras fit.....what's a girl to do?! Everyone tells me to wait until he's born to buy nursing bras since the girls are going to explode once again...does anyone have insight into this? Opinions?
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Some Relief
The appointment this morning went well. This doctor is, by far, the best I have ever been to in terms of his bedside manner and attention to detail. I know he works primarily with high-risk pregnancies, so it's his job to be uber-sensitive to hormonal pregnant women..it is my impression that he is certainly in the right profession!
We started out with a full anatomy scan of Elfie. Boy, is he growing! He is now measuring 13 days ahead of schedule, and is an astonishing 3 pounds. I was shocked! We got some great pics that I'll scan and post later.
The doctor was a bit concerned that he is so big. I hadn't been worried (until today!) because M is a big guy and was 11 pounds at birth. We just always expected to have a big baby. So my instructions are to reduce my carb intake...uggh! That's a hard assignment, since that what I crave the most besides fruit! Oh well, small price to pay for Elfie's health.
And then on to the goods:
After an extremely detailed look at the heart, the doctor determined there aren't any structural abnormalities. We did see and hear the irregular beats, and he explained to us that it is not uncommon for them to resolve themselves. I was instructed to eliminate ALL sources of caffeine from my diet, including chocolate and (get this!) my cocoa butter stretch mark cream! Apparently, unbeknownst to me, I've been feeding my baby caffeine through my belly every morning! So there goes that.
Oh yes, and one more set of instructions: "Have a great time in Costa Rica!"
I left feeling much better, but of course it's going to be in the back of my mind until it's gone or we know more. I have a follow-up appointment in two weeks. If the arrhythmia is still there I will be monitored weekly with this perinatologists until I deliver. He also did mention that there is an increased chance that, if the arrhythmia persists, I'll be recommended for c-section, as they prefer to not put the baby in a stressful labor situation under these circumstances.
For now, I'm just taking my kick counts, relaxing as much as possible, and PACKING! We leave early Saturday morning and return the following Sunday, do I probably won't be blogging until at least then. I hope you all continue to enjoy June!
We started out with a full anatomy scan of Elfie. Boy, is he growing! He is now measuring 13 days ahead of schedule, and is an astonishing 3 pounds. I was shocked! We got some great pics that I'll scan and post later.
The doctor was a bit concerned that he is so big. I hadn't been worried (until today!) because M is a big guy and was 11 pounds at birth. We just always expected to have a big baby. So my instructions are to reduce my carb intake...uggh! That's a hard assignment, since that what I crave the most besides fruit! Oh well, small price to pay for Elfie's health.
And then on to the goods:
After an extremely detailed look at the heart, the doctor determined there aren't any structural abnormalities. We did see and hear the irregular beats, and he explained to us that it is not uncommon for them to resolve themselves. I was instructed to eliminate ALL sources of caffeine from my diet, including chocolate and (get this!) my cocoa butter stretch mark cream! Apparently, unbeknownst to me, I've been feeding my baby caffeine through my belly every morning! So there goes that.
Oh yes, and one more set of instructions: "Have a great time in Costa Rica!"
I left feeling much better, but of course it's going to be in the back of my mind until it's gone or we know more. I have a follow-up appointment in two weeks. If the arrhythmia is still there I will be monitored weekly with this perinatologists until I deliver. He also did mention that there is an increased chance that, if the arrhythmia persists, I'll be recommended for c-section, as they prefer to not put the baby in a stressful labor situation under these circumstances.
For now, I'm just taking my kick counts, relaxing as much as possible, and PACKING! We leave early Saturday morning and return the following Sunday, do I probably won't be blogging until at least then. I hope you all continue to enjoy June!
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Classes, Cankles, and Costa Rica!
27 weeks.
Hey people!
I can't believe how long it's been since I posted. I am really busy lately, and can't seem to find the energy to sit down and spill everything...although I feel as though so much is happening that I want to share!
So, to start, I haven't heard back about my glucose test, which leads me to believe that I passed. I have an appt. with Dr. D on Monday so I'll double check with him because I'm curious about the number!
I recently took a fabulous trip to Southern Cal with my M, my mom, and my stepdad. It was so nice to relax in the sun and talk about our plans when the little man arrives. Mom and I went shopping, and Elfie ended up with more clothes than I did! I bought a cute bikini though, and am pleasantly surprised at how comfortable I am sporting the bare belly bump. My friend E and I saw SATC 2 (because we are big fans and saw the first one together)...and it was okay. I laughed, but didn't think is was as good as the first movie...and certainly not as good as the series.
I am definitely starting to feel more fatigued lately, and it comes in the form of really sore feet at the end of the day, and a sore back after standing/walking too long. I am also the lucky recipient of EDEMA....a.k.a. CANKLES. It's pretty shocking and disgusting, really. I look down at my feet and can't even see my ankle bones. I'm noticing quite a bit of water retention in my legs as well. Walking has gotten better since I've slowed my pace, so I'm at least still getting some exercise.
Elfie's movements are changing also. Well, it's probably not his movements so much as how I they feel to me. With his increasing size I can actually follow body parts (most likely feet or knees) as they move across my belly. CRAZY COOL. Sometimes he'll get me on the side of my tummy and it tickles like crazy. I love it!
I changed my background in preparation of our LAST HURRAH! In 9 days we are leaving for Costa Rica!!! I will be 28.5 weeks when we leave and 29.5 when we return. Needless to say, this will be it for us in terms of traveling before the birth. We will be doing it up big! M's whole family will be there to celebrate his parents' 45th wedding anniversary. He has three brothers who each have 2 kids, so it'll be a full house but tons of fun. I, of course, will be living in the pool (and the kitchen!).
When we return we have our baby shower to look forward to. After that we have an all-day childbirth class in addition to two evening classes (one is a breastfeeding class and the other is infant basics). Then we're in the home stretch! It's so hard to believe how incredibly fast this pregnancy is flying by, and how soon we will be meeting our son.
I'm leaving you with some pics of my time away with the fam..
Hey people!
I can't believe how long it's been since I posted. I am really busy lately, and can't seem to find the energy to sit down and spill everything...although I feel as though so much is happening that I want to share!
So, to start, I haven't heard back about my glucose test, which leads me to believe that I passed. I have an appt. with Dr. D on Monday so I'll double check with him because I'm curious about the number!
I recently took a fabulous trip to Southern Cal with my M, my mom, and my stepdad. It was so nice to relax in the sun and talk about our plans when the little man arrives. Mom and I went shopping, and Elfie ended up with more clothes than I did! I bought a cute bikini though, and am pleasantly surprised at how comfortable I am sporting the bare belly bump. My friend E and I saw SATC 2 (because we are big fans and saw the first one together)...and it was okay. I laughed, but didn't think is was as good as the first movie...and certainly not as good as the series.
I am definitely starting to feel more fatigued lately, and it comes in the form of really sore feet at the end of the day, and a sore back after standing/walking too long. I am also the lucky recipient of EDEMA....a.k.a. CANKLES. It's pretty shocking and disgusting, really. I look down at my feet and can't even see my ankle bones. I'm noticing quite a bit of water retention in my legs as well. Walking has gotten better since I've slowed my pace, so I'm at least still getting some exercise.
Elfie's movements are changing also. Well, it's probably not his movements so much as how I they feel to me. With his increasing size I can actually follow body parts (most likely feet or knees) as they move across my belly. CRAZY COOL. Sometimes he'll get me on the side of my tummy and it tickles like crazy. I love it!
I changed my background in preparation of our LAST HURRAH! In 9 days we are leaving for Costa Rica!!! I will be 28.5 weeks when we leave and 29.5 when we return. Needless to say, this will be it for us in terms of traveling before the birth. We will be doing it up big! M's whole family will be there to celebrate his parents' 45th wedding anniversary. He has three brothers who each have 2 kids, so it'll be a full house but tons of fun. I, of course, will be living in the pool (and the kitchen!).
When we return we have our baby shower to look forward to. After that we have an all-day childbirth class in addition to two evening classes (one is a breastfeeding class and the other is infant basics). Then we're in the home stretch! It's so hard to believe how incredibly fast this pregnancy is flying by, and how soon we will be meeting our son.
I'm leaving you with some pics of my time away with the fam..
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Glucose
I had my glucose screening this morning. That meant I had to to fast (i.e. not eat or drink anything this morning before the appt). So of course I showed up at 6:45 am STARVING. Luckily, I was able to get the sugary drink quickly (did I mention I was really, really hungry??). I drank that sucker down and felt so much better with some "sugar energy." Unfortunately, my sugar high lasted only about 40 minutes. At 7:45 I started getting very light-headed..similar to this experience, and thought I'd either pass out or throw up. I went to the back of the lab to lie down, which made me feel better for the remaining 20 minutes. I was so determined to not throw up because I knew that would void the test! They were able to get the blood, and the nice lab tech sent me home with a few crackers so I didn't crash my car. Phew! Another bullet dodged.
Looking back at that experience, it doesn't surprise me much. I have always had issues with low blood sugar levels (M calls it the "Low Blood Sugar Monster"), and benefit from smaller, more frequent meals to keep my blood levels even. Even pre-pregnancy I needed to eat breakfast AS SOON AS I got up in the morning. The lab people told me it's not that uncommon for preggers to experience it. Has anyone else had this happen to them??
I will be surprised and dismayed if I flunk that test! I don't think I'd survive the 3-hour torture!
Looking back at that experience, it doesn't surprise me much. I have always had issues with low blood sugar levels (M calls it the "Low Blood Sugar Monster"), and benefit from smaller, more frequent meals to keep my blood levels even. Even pre-pregnancy I needed to eat breakfast AS SOON AS I got up in the morning. The lab people told me it's not that uncommon for preggers to experience it. Has anyone else had this happen to them??
I will be surprised and dismayed if I flunk that test! I don't think I'd survive the 3-hour torture!
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Cheer up, Charlie!
23 weeks!
Just checking in to report that Elfie and I are just plugging along, growing bigger every day and experiencing some of the not-so-joys of pregnancy! Lately, I have had quite a bit of pain and pressure in my lower abdomen, mainly triggered by walking long distances. Unfortunately, the longest distance my body seems to be okay with is to the park down the street from our house. In my book, this is just not nearly enough exercise. Oh yes, and the back pain and heartburn? They're still hanging around too! I don't worry about it too much since most of my pain is relieved the minute I sit down and relax, but will definitely be bringing it up to Dr. D at my appointment on Monday. I'm guessing it is just par for the course, and most likely ligament stretching...Has anyone else experienced this or something similar?
The nursery is coming along steadily. We are going to start our furniture shopping soon, and then it will really start to come together (!). Charlie (our canine "baby") has been moping around the house since I've become increasingly less mobile...but last Friday I found one way to cheer him up:
He loves to feel Elfie kicking away at my belly button! This is in the nursery..as you can see, I decided to get crafty with some canvasses, paint, and stencils. Funny that I have those done, but still need the majority of my furniture!!!
Just checking in to report that Elfie and I are just plugging along, growing bigger every day and experiencing some of the not-so-joys of pregnancy! Lately, I have had quite a bit of pain and pressure in my lower abdomen, mainly triggered by walking long distances. Unfortunately, the longest distance my body seems to be okay with is to the park down the street from our house. In my book, this is just not nearly enough exercise. Oh yes, and the back pain and heartburn? They're still hanging around too! I don't worry about it too much since most of my pain is relieved the minute I sit down and relax, but will definitely be bringing it up to Dr. D at my appointment on Monday. I'm guessing it is just par for the course, and most likely ligament stretching...Has anyone else experienced this or something similar?
The nursery is coming along steadily. We are going to start our furniture shopping soon, and then it will really start to come together (!). Charlie (our canine "baby") has been moping around the house since I've become increasingly less mobile...but last Friday I found one way to cheer him up:
He loves to feel Elfie kicking away at my belly button! This is in the nursery..as you can see, I decided to get crafty with some canvasses, paint, and stencils. Funny that I have those done, but still need the majority of my furniture!!!
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Halfway There!
Boy, oh boy!
I mean that in every sense of the phrase! Since Monday's appointment I have been busy picking out bedding (it is SOOOO cute!!), creating my color scheme, and researching registry items. It is SO OVERWHELMING! Thankfully (and I never thought I'd find myself actually feeling gratitude for this..), I have a few friends who recently had babies, and they are turning out to be excellent sources of wisdom and advice on the subject of must-have baby items. Tomorrow I will go to the pick up the paint for Elfie's room, and hopefully can get the room taped and tarped...... Ohmygosh I can't believe this is really happening!...... I've waited a long, long time to decorate that empty room. I'll post pics as soon as I take 'em!
On the "how I'm feeling" front, the heartburn is a constant!!! Thank the Lord for Tums and their soothing qualities, although I'm having to load up on fiber to counteract the, ahem, "effects" of a lot of calcium! Luckily it hasn't been too bad yet.
I am in constant awe of my changing body. When I pass a mirror, I can't help but strike a pose to see my bump from different angles! As I feel Elfie moving around more and more everyday, I can relax some of the anxieties that something might go wrong. Of course, I know that nobody is completely safe from complications and tragedy, but for now I choose to enjoy and delight in this amazing miracle. I get teary-eyed just thinking about holding my newborn son!
So...I am officially at the halfway mark. It's the blink of an eye when I consider what it took to get here, and I thoroughly look forward to the next 4.5 months and beyond!
I mean that in every sense of the phrase! Since Monday's appointment I have been busy picking out bedding (it is SOOOO cute!!), creating my color scheme, and researching registry items. It is SO OVERWHELMING! Thankfully (and I never thought I'd find myself actually feeling gratitude for this..), I have a few friends who recently had babies, and they are turning out to be excellent sources of wisdom and advice on the subject of must-have baby items. Tomorrow I will go to the pick up the paint for Elfie's room, and hopefully can get the room taped and tarped...... Ohmygosh I can't believe this is really happening!...... I've waited a long, long time to decorate that empty room. I'll post pics as soon as I take 'em!
On the "how I'm feeling" front, the heartburn is a constant!!! Thank the Lord for Tums and their soothing qualities, although I'm having to load up on fiber to counteract the, ahem, "effects" of a lot of calcium! Luckily it hasn't been too bad yet.
I am in constant awe of my changing body. When I pass a mirror, I can't help but strike a pose to see my bump from different angles! As I feel Elfie moving around more and more everyday, I can relax some of the anxieties that something might go wrong. Of course, I know that nobody is completely safe from complications and tragedy, but for now I choose to enjoy and delight in this amazing miracle. I get teary-eyed just thinking about holding my newborn son!
So...I am officially at the halfway mark. It's the blink of an eye when I consider what it took to get here, and I thoroughly look forward to the next 4.5 months and beyond!
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Tomorrow!
19w3d
Well, it's finally come! When I look back to my last OB appt, I thought 5 weeks was AN ETERNITY to wait! But then I compare it to the 2 years we've been waiting, longing for, crying about, and praying for this miracle of life, and it seems like such a blip on the radar. And it truly has gone by pretty fast.
I have been feeling my little elfin baby moving around quite a bit in there. It started about a week and a half ago, and since it is so subtle and not consistent, it took me a while to really identify it as the baby. Now I know for sure, and LOVE the feeling. He/she moves most when I am lying down or sitting still, so I try to do that as much as possible.
I have so much excited anticipation regarding tomorrow's appointment. I am just a tad bit nervous about the scan, and am hoping that Elfie is measuring appropriately, is healthy, and doesn't reveal any major problems. In the back of my mind I know it will be fine, but the worry thoughts do creep in from time to time, and I can't help but be anxious. Mostly though, I am excited to fall deeper in love with my baby tomorrow.
BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY....
I really hope our little Elfie is not stubborn like his/her momma and decides to show us the goods!!! If we are lucky and do get to see those beautiful genitals, M and I are planning to spend the day together telling friends and family. I will post here tomorrow night after we've let our IRL peeps know!!
And then....LET THE SHOPPING BEGIN!! I have not bought a single thing for this baby yet, and I am excited to pick out a really special outfit for him or her. I can't wait to get started on the nursery!!
Today's the last day to vote...let us know what you think!
Well, it's finally come! When I look back to my last OB appt, I thought 5 weeks was AN ETERNITY to wait! But then I compare it to the 2 years we've been waiting, longing for, crying about, and praying for this miracle of life, and it seems like such a blip on the radar. And it truly has gone by pretty fast.
I have been feeling my little elfin baby moving around quite a bit in there. It started about a week and a half ago, and since it is so subtle and not consistent, it took me a while to really identify it as the baby. Now I know for sure, and LOVE the feeling. He/she moves most when I am lying down or sitting still, so I try to do that as much as possible.
I have so much excited anticipation regarding tomorrow's appointment. I am just a tad bit nervous about the scan, and am hoping that Elfie is measuring appropriately, is healthy, and doesn't reveal any major problems. In the back of my mind I know it will be fine, but the worry thoughts do creep in from time to time, and I can't help but be anxious. Mostly though, I am excited to fall deeper in love with my baby tomorrow.
BUT MOST IMPORTANTLY....
I really hope our little Elfie is not stubborn like his/her momma and decides to show us the goods!!! If we are lucky and do get to see those beautiful genitals, M and I are planning to spend the day together telling friends and family. I will post here tomorrow night after we've let our IRL peeps know!!
And then....LET THE SHOPPING BEGIN!! I have not bought a single thing for this baby yet, and I am excited to pick out a really special outfit for him or her. I can't wait to get started on the nursery!!
Today's the last day to vote...let us know what you think!
Thursday, March 25, 2010
17 weeks!
Thanks for the advice about the heartburn. I bought some Tums and they've been working wonders. Phew!
I had a scary moment yesterday at work. I was in the middle of teaching a lesson when all of a sudden I felt as though I'd pass out. I walked over to my desk where there was a lovely muffin waiting for me and promptly stuffed it in my mouth. I told the kids I'd have to sit down for the rest of the lesson. They were very sweet and understanding! I was truly scared, as I've never experienced this before. I called my mom at lunch and she said it used to happen to her when she was pregnant, and that it's just my low blood pressure/low blood sugar. So now I know that I should keep food IN MY POCKET for emergencies such as this!
So..the weeks are moving right along, and I'm certainly comforted by my expanding belly. Of course I am counting the days til our BIG ultrasound because once we know the gender, the REAL planning can begin. I haven't even really seriously planned the nursery yet, and of course need to start getting serious about names, etc.
Hope everyone is enjoying Spring so far!
I had a scary moment yesterday at work. I was in the middle of teaching a lesson when all of a sudden I felt as though I'd pass out. I walked over to my desk where there was a lovely muffin waiting for me and promptly stuffed it in my mouth. I told the kids I'd have to sit down for the rest of the lesson. They were very sweet and understanding! I was truly scared, as I've never experienced this before. I called my mom at lunch and she said it used to happen to her when she was pregnant, and that it's just my low blood pressure/low blood sugar. So now I know that I should keep food IN MY POCKET for emergencies such as this!
So..the weeks are moving right along, and I'm certainly comforted by my expanding belly. Of course I am counting the days til our BIG ultrasound because once we know the gender, the REAL planning can begin. I haven't even really seriously planned the nursery yet, and of course need to start getting serious about names, etc.
Hope everyone is enjoying Spring so far!
Monday, March 22, 2010
16.5 weeks and HEARTBURN
16w4d
Just as I was settling in nicely to the energy, motivation, and lack of sickness that the second trimester brings, I was stricken with the dreaded heartburn.
Does anyone have any ideas on how to reduce/medicate my crazy pain?? I looked on Dr. D's website for ideas of which medications are approved in pregnancy, but it didn't mention anything for heartburn. A friend said her doc let he take Tums. I want to try something, but feel like I should call the doc first. Suggestions??
I put a poll on the blog so we can all take a stab at guessing Elfie's gender. It will be open for 20 more days...I'll close it on April 12 when we find out. Make sure you vote!!!!
Just as I was settling in nicely to the energy, motivation, and lack of sickness that the second trimester brings, I was stricken with the dreaded heartburn.
Does anyone have any ideas on how to reduce/medicate my crazy pain?? I looked on Dr. D's website for ideas of which medications are approved in pregnancy, but it didn't mention anything for heartburn. A friend said her doc let he take Tums. I want to try something, but feel like I should call the doc first. Suggestions??
I put a poll on the blog so we can all take a stab at guessing Elfie's gender. It will be open for 20 more days...I'll close it on April 12 when we find out. Make sure you vote!!!!
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
OB appt #2
Yesterday was the second visit with Dr. D. I'm glad to report that it was relatively uneventful AND I got to keep all my clothes on! Boy does that speed things right along!
We heard Elfie on the doppler (which is, of course, old hat to us by now), and his/her heartrate was in the 140s. We also go the okay to travel to Co.sta R.ica in June (I'll be 28 weeks) for M's big family vacation to celebrate his parents' 45th wedding anniversary. Yay! Now I get to go shopping for a cute bathing suit!
I've been getting a few shooting pains in my right leg that originate in my lower back/upper butt. I had suspected it was the sciatic nerve, and Dr. D confirmed that it will most likely only get worse as my uterus gets bigger. I'm also starting to notice a definite change in my belly. It's starting to look like more than just a beer gut. Love it!
The best part of the appointment yesterday was that we got to schedule the BIG ultrasound in which we get to find out Elfie's gender! It is set for April 12...which also happens to be my 1/2 birthday. We grew up celebrating half birthdays, so it's fitting that I get the ULTIMATE present on my 30.5!! So in just a little over a month, I will know if I have a son or daughter growing inside me. I am SO EXCITED!
Today I got an awesome care package of maternity clothes in the mail. One of my friends from church in my old city has a daughter who just gave birth. She sent me some reeeeaaaaallly cute clothes! I feel so blessed!
We heard Elfie on the doppler (which is, of course, old hat to us by now), and his/her heartrate was in the 140s. We also go the okay to travel to Co.sta R.ica in June (I'll be 28 weeks) for M's big family vacation to celebrate his parents' 45th wedding anniversary. Yay! Now I get to go shopping for a cute bathing suit!
I've been getting a few shooting pains in my right leg that originate in my lower back/upper butt. I had suspected it was the sciatic nerve, and Dr. D confirmed that it will most likely only get worse as my uterus gets bigger. I'm also starting to notice a definite change in my belly. It's starting to look like more than just a beer gut. Love it!
The best part of the appointment yesterday was that we got to schedule the BIG ultrasound in which we get to find out Elfie's gender! It is set for April 12...which also happens to be my 1/2 birthday. We grew up celebrating half birthdays, so it's fitting that I get the ULTIMATE present on my 30.5!! So in just a little over a month, I will know if I have a son or daughter growing inside me. I am SO EXCITED!
Today I got an awesome care package of maternity clothes in the mail. One of my friends from church in my old city has a daughter who just gave birth. She sent me some reeeeaaaaallly cute clothes! I feel so blessed!
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Second trimester
They say that you start to feel much better in the second trimester, but I couldn't even imagine that while I felt so awful in the first trimester. It's funny how, having never been pregnant before, I was starting to equate pregnancy with feeling yucky, tired, and sick. It gave me comfort to know that things were progressing as they should. So now that I've crossed the threshold into the "good feeling period," it is nerve-racking because I feel so good! It's astounding how my energy has come back and I can eat meals without the crazy nausea and food aversions. Now I am just dealing with headaches and sore tatas (when are they going to stop???). It is a darn good thing that I have the doppler to keep me sane!. My next OB appointment is a week from tomorrow!
M and I have started to discuss names. Nothing too serious, since we don't know the gender yet, but I am beginning to realize that it might be a harder task than I thought. It seems we have pretty opposite tastes in names..so we are going to have some major compromising to do. Yikes.
M and I have started to discuss names. Nothing too serious, since we don't know the gender yet, but I am beginning to realize that it might be a harder task than I thought. It seems we have pretty opposite tastes in names..so we are going to have some major compromising to do. Yikes.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Maternity Clothes and other things.
LOVE them. My mom and I went to O.ld N.avy and G.ap a month ago just as I was starting to get annoyed with the B.ella Ba.nd and all my bloatedness. I COULD. NOT. BELIEVE. how incredibly comfy the maternity pants are. Not only to they allow your belly to expand, but you don't have to fiddle with buttons and zippers. Peeing a million times a day is a breeze!!! I am now wearing them exclusively.
M and I bought a fetal doppler on Sunday. It just arrived today, but I can't use it yet because they are sending the gel in another shipment. Very much looking forward to hunting for Elfie's heartbeat. If we can find and hear it, this next week and a half until my second OB appointment will be awesome. Awesome.
On the symptoms front, I have had a headache since Sunday. It actually started on Saturday night just before bed. I finally broke down and took tylenol on Sunday night since we were at the ILs' for dinner. I also took some yesterday and today, but it's starting to annoy me. I think if it goes on much longer I'll call the doc, although everything I've read has said it's normal to have them at this stage..sooo..I might just have to stick it out. In addition, stretch marks are starting to appear in places that are not my belly....hmmm...not too excited about THAT.
M and I bought a fetal doppler on Sunday. It just arrived today, but I can't use it yet because they are sending the gel in another shipment. Very much looking forward to hunting for Elfie's heartbeat. If we can find and hear it, this next week and a half until my second OB appointment will be awesome. Awesome.
On the symptoms front, I have had a headache since Sunday. It actually started on Saturday night just before bed. I finally broke down and took tylenol on Sunday night since we were at the ILs' for dinner. I also took some yesterday and today, but it's starting to annoy me. I think if it goes on much longer I'll call the doc, although everything I've read has said it's normal to have them at this stage..sooo..I might just have to stick it out. In addition, stretch marks are starting to appear in places that are not my belly....hmmm...not too excited about THAT.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Telling friends.
So...this weekend we stayed with 2 other couples at a cabin in Tahoe. It was awesome, although I couldn't snowboard...so that limited some of the activity. Before we went, M and I decided that it might be impossible to NOT tell them because I wouldn't be drinking, and with this crowd that's just downright unacceptable (unless you're pregnant!). As anticipated, about a half-hour into the day, my friend started making comments...which of course led us to confirm it. Everyone was so excited, as they know what we've been through in the past 20 months. It was a good feeling...but I couldn't help the nagging feeling of "what if..".
Today I am 6w4d and am getting sicker as the days go by. More nausea, a little barf thrown in, and some mean headaches (in combination with the constant drowsiness) make me feel like a zombie. I know that it's all normal, though, and am just praying that we see a living embryo at the ultrasound next Monday.
Today I am 6w4d and am getting sicker as the days go by. More nausea, a little barf thrown in, and some mean headaches (in combination with the constant drowsiness) make me feel like a zombie. I know that it's all normal, though, and am just praying that we see a living embryo at the ultrasound next Monday.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
The magical 6 weeks.
So...having been lucky with my first two weeks of pregnancy as far as horrible symptoms go, I wondered if I would get the dreaded 6 weeks nausea.
Woke up this morning sick. Really faint, and really low blood sugar. I drank some OJ and then promptly puked it up. I felt this way on and off until about 12 p.m., at which point I got a pretty severe headache. I waited to see if the headache would resolve itself, but by 4 p.m. decided that it was time for ty.lenol. My first pregnancy medicine. Yikes!
I still have sore tatas, I've been peeing without abandon and am hungry. All. The. Time. Even when I go to bed, I fall asleep with my tummy grumbling. I know that a lot of that can be attributed to the progesterone suppositories...but if they are keeping me pregnant, then bring 'em on!!
Ultrasound in a week and 4 days. Yay!
Woke up this morning sick. Really faint, and really low blood sugar. I drank some OJ and then promptly puked it up. I felt this way on and off until about 12 p.m., at which point I got a pretty severe headache. I waited to see if the headache would resolve itself, but by 4 p.m. decided that it was time for ty.lenol. My first pregnancy medicine. Yikes!
I still have sore tatas, I've been peeing without abandon and am hungry. All. The. Time. Even when I go to bed, I fall asleep with my tummy grumbling. I know that a lot of that can be attributed to the progesterone suppositories...but if they are keeping me pregnant, then bring 'em on!!
Ultrasound in a week and 4 days. Yay!
Monday, December 28, 2009
Hard to Believe.
I am still finding myself in a state of disbelief about being pregnant. I find it very difficult to say the word and actually believe that it's me I'm talking about! I've spent the last year and 7 months wanting this, but now have trouble accepting that it's my time. I think the ectopic really messed me up in that way.
Right now, the symptoms are few..I've had a few gagging episodes, and "the girls" are bigger and more sore than they've ever been. I also occasionally get a few distinct twinges/dull cramps in my uterine region. Oh yeah, and I'm 5 days late for AF (no complaints here!). Comparatively, this seems much more "normal" than the last time I saw those two pink lines.
When my NP called last Wednesday to give me the beta score, I asked when they wanted to see me again for the next beta. She replied by explaining that they don't need to see me again! I was dumbfounded, and then proceeded to beg for another blood draw. I know that I'm just not going to be convinced by two betas.
I go in at 8:30 tomorrow. I'll post results when I have them!
Right now, the symptoms are few..I've had a few gagging episodes, and "the girls" are bigger and more sore than they've ever been. I also occasionally get a few distinct twinges/dull cramps in my uterine region. Oh yeah, and I'm 5 days late for AF (no complaints here!). Comparatively, this seems much more "normal" than the last time I saw those two pink lines.
When my NP called last Wednesday to give me the beta score, I asked when they wanted to see me again for the next beta. She replied by explaining that they don't need to see me again! I was dumbfounded, and then proceeded to beg for another blood draw. I know that I'm just not going to be convinced by two betas.
I go in at 8:30 tomorrow. I'll post results when I have them!
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