Of course, I watch this after I go through IVF.
Toddler Town- 3rd Edition
13 years ago
Thursday, May 24, 2012
17 weeks!
I had my 3rd OB visit this afternoon and it was brief. My blood work last Thursday showed that my TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) is .47 and my meds can remain the same. If my TSH level went above a 2, then I would have to find a new endocrinologist to change my dosage. I'm glad that I don't need to do that.
My age risk for downs syndrome is 1 in 293 and it was negative. My risk for MSS (maternal serum screening) down syndrome is 1 in 869. The test measures four chemicals in the blood and the results are combined with the woman’s age risk to give a final risk of Down syndrome, trisomy 18 and neural tube defects. Everything is normal and what a relief!
I heard the heart beat on the doppler and the shoosh, shoosh, shoosh sounded great!
Total Weight Loss/Gain: I'm at the same weight - 10 lbs at home and 12 lbs at the OB. Clothing and shoes weigh 2 lbs! I hope I can maintain the weight gain at a healthy rate and not let myself go.
Sleep: Has been so-so. I still wake up on my backside and OB said that was ok, but it doesn't feel right. I switched sides with J so my back pillow doesn't land on the floor anymore, but I still rolled onto my back. As I get bigger, hopefully, I'll stay on my side.
Movement: OB asked me today if I'm feeling the baby move yet. I should feel something soon! I've never been in tune with my body. For instance, a friend said she knew when was ovulating because she felt some cramping where her ovaries were as the eggs grew. I didn't feel myself ovulating until I took Clomid. So, I wonder if I'll only feel the baby move when he or she is kicking.
Cravings/Aversions: I'm craving ice-cream because it's getting hot. I have moose tracks and chocolate peanut butter ice-cream in the freezer...Yum! No aversions. :)
Symptoms: I feel great and have lots of energy!
Nesting: I took a break from nesting this past week so I still need to work on the hallway project. I met up with a girlfriend and went to West Elm in the city to pick up some decorative vases to bring some of the colors together in the living room. I'm eyeing 2 large hurricane's from Crate and Barrel for the mantle.
What I look forward to: I'm looking forward to our perinatal ultrasound in 11 days! It's a high risk u/s and we should be able to find out the baby's gender if he or she cooperates. I also signed up for a prenatal yoga class in June and again in July to take with a friend. I bought yoga socks for class!
Milestones: According to babycenter.com: Our baby's skeleton is changing from soft cartilage to bone, and the umbilical cord — her lifeline to the placenta — is growing stronger and thicker. Your baby weighs 5 ounces now (about as much as a turnip), and she's around 5 inches long from head to bottom. She can move her joints, and her sweat glands are starting to develop.
Happy Memorial weekend! Freedom isn't free...thank you veterans and to those who serve. If you're traveling this weekend, have fun!
My age risk for downs syndrome is 1 in 293 and it was negative. My risk for MSS (maternal serum screening) down syndrome is 1 in 869. The test measures four chemicals in the blood and the results are combined with the woman’s age risk to give a final risk of Down syndrome, trisomy 18 and neural tube defects. Everything is normal and what a relief!
I heard the heart beat on the doppler and the shoosh, shoosh, shoosh sounded great!
Total Weight Loss/Gain: I'm at the same weight - 10 lbs at home and 12 lbs at the OB. Clothing and shoes weigh 2 lbs! I hope I can maintain the weight gain at a healthy rate and not let myself go.
Sleep: Has been so-so. I still wake up on my backside and OB said that was ok, but it doesn't feel right. I switched sides with J so my back pillow doesn't land on the floor anymore, but I still rolled onto my back. As I get bigger, hopefully, I'll stay on my side.
Movement: OB asked me today if I'm feeling the baby move yet. I should feel something soon! I've never been in tune with my body. For instance, a friend said she knew when was ovulating because she felt some cramping where her ovaries were as the eggs grew. I didn't feel myself ovulating until I took Clomid. So, I wonder if I'll only feel the baby move when he or she is kicking.
Cravings/Aversions: I'm craving ice-cream because it's getting hot. I have moose tracks and chocolate peanut butter ice-cream in the freezer...Yum! No aversions. :)
Symptoms: I feel great and have lots of energy!
Nesting: I took a break from nesting this past week so I still need to work on the hallway project. I met up with a girlfriend and went to West Elm in the city to pick up some decorative vases to bring some of the colors together in the living room. I'm eyeing 2 large hurricane's from Crate and Barrel for the mantle.
What I look forward to: I'm looking forward to our perinatal ultrasound in 11 days! It's a high risk u/s and we should be able to find out the baby's gender if he or she cooperates. I also signed up for a prenatal yoga class in June and again in July to take with a friend. I bought yoga socks for class!
Milestones: According to babycenter.com: Our baby's skeleton is changing from soft cartilage to bone, and the umbilical cord — her lifeline to the placenta — is growing stronger and thicker. Your baby weighs 5 ounces now (about as much as a turnip), and she's around 5 inches long from head to bottom. She can move her joints, and her sweat glands are starting to develop.
Happy Memorial weekend! Freedom isn't free...thank you veterans and to those who serve. If you're traveling this weekend, have fun!
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
May ICLW
Welcome ICLW (International Comment Leaving Week) visitors through Stirrup Queen's blog! It's my second time participating in ICLW and I confess that I am much better about reading your stories than commenting, but I'm working on it as I continue to participate in ICLW.
As for me, I have PCOS and Hypothyroid and TTC for 5 years. I am currently pregnant with a singleton via our first attempt with ICSI IVF after 5 early miscarriages and one being a ruptured ectopic pregnancy last year. I feel great at 16 weeks and am enjoying each and every day with our little miracle. We'll find out the gender in 13 days at our perinatal ultrasound and we're absolutely thrilled! We plan on having a gender revealing cake cutting party with both sets of parents and share the news that way because my MIL (mother in law) found out we were pregnant from my dad (he assumed we had told her already, but we were waiting to tell J's parents in person) and I want to avoid this from happening again. It'll be difficult to keep it in until we see our parents, but we're going enjoy the time we have in knowing what only God has known and created inside for most of the day until we cut the cake and then the cat will be out of the bag!
Thanks for visiting! I hope you will leave a comment so I can visit your blog and follow along with your journey.
As for me, I have PCOS and Hypothyroid and TTC for 5 years. I am currently pregnant with a singleton via our first attempt with ICSI IVF after 5 early miscarriages and one being a ruptured ectopic pregnancy last year. I feel great at 16 weeks and am enjoying each and every day with our little miracle. We'll find out the gender in 13 days at our perinatal ultrasound and we're absolutely thrilled! We plan on having a gender revealing cake cutting party with both sets of parents and share the news that way because my MIL (mother in law) found out we were pregnant from my dad (he assumed we had told her already, but we were waiting to tell J's parents in person) and I want to avoid this from happening again. It'll be difficult to keep it in until we see our parents, but we're going enjoy the time we have in knowing what only God has known and created inside for most of the day until we cut the cake and then the cat will be out of the bag!
Thanks for visiting! I hope you will leave a comment so I can visit your blog and follow along with your journey.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
16 weeks!
Total Weight Loss/Gain: My OB weight gain with clothes on was 12 lbs. My home scale says I gained 10 lbs. :) I'm trying to walk more and I registered for a prenatal yoga class in June. I saw the dermatologist earlier this week to take care of some foot pain. As I got heavier, it hurt to walk because I've had a plantar wart and a small corn on my left foot. I know...TMI! The doctor scaled it down for me with a razor blade and used liquid nitrogen to freeze the area so she could scale it down some more in a couple weeks. The coldness burned, but I'm walking without any discomfort! Why did I wait so long? I don't have to wear sneakers or my dansko's all the time anymore! The dermatologist and OB didn't recommend salicylic acid as a treatment option because it has aspirin in it.
Sleep: Has been ok. I think I need some more pillows to prop me up some more as I hug my candy cane pillow. I still wake up on my back, which is my most comfortable sleeping position. As I get bigger, I hope I can get more comfortable sleeping on my side.
Movement: No flutters yet. I think I just feel some pulling...probably ligament shifting.
Cravings/Aversions: I craved seafood and had my fill with Sunday's seafood boil. I made a wild salmon hoagie earlier in the week and it was yummy. I'll have to make that again soon! No aversions. :)
Symptoms: I feel great and am feeling more productive during 2nd trimester. I've had the energy to cook more and not eating out as much. Saves $!
Nesting: The sunburst mirror is up in the living room! Next week, I will look into the hallway idea I saw on pinterest. The association sent a contractor over to change our water faucet in the front and I can finally use a garden hose to water my flowers instead of filling up multiple jugs.
What I look forward to: I look forward to my 3rd OB appointment that's coming up in a week. Listening to the baby's heartbeat again will be comforting and it's always music to my ears. J should be able to hear it for the first time at our June ultrasound appointment and we can't wait to find out the baby's gender! Place your bets...do you think we're having a boy or a girl? Correct comments will win a prize!
Milestones: According to babycenter.com: Our growing baby is having a growth spurt. In the next few weeks, our baby will double his weight and add inches to his length. Right now, he's about the size of an avocado: 4 1/2 inches long (head to rump) and 3 1/2 ounces. His legs are much more developed, his head is more erect than it has been, and his eyes have moved closer to the front of his head. His ears are close to their final position, too. The patterning of his scalp has begun, though his locks aren't recognizable yet. He's even started growing toenails. And there's a lot happening inside as well. For example, his heart is now pumping about 25 quarts of blood each day, and this amount will continue to increase as our baby continues to develop.
Sleep: Has been ok. I think I need some more pillows to prop me up some more as I hug my candy cane pillow. I still wake up on my back, which is my most comfortable sleeping position. As I get bigger, I hope I can get more comfortable sleeping on my side.
Movement: No flutters yet. I think I just feel some pulling...probably ligament shifting.
Cravings/Aversions: I craved seafood and had my fill with Sunday's seafood boil. I made a wild salmon hoagie earlier in the week and it was yummy. I'll have to make that again soon! No aversions. :)
Symptoms: I feel great and am feeling more productive during 2nd trimester. I've had the energy to cook more and not eating out as much. Saves $!
Nesting: The sunburst mirror is up in the living room! Next week, I will look into the hallway idea I saw on pinterest. The association sent a contractor over to change our water faucet in the front and I can finally use a garden hose to water my flowers instead of filling up multiple jugs.
What I look forward to: I look forward to my 3rd OB appointment that's coming up in a week. Listening to the baby's heartbeat again will be comforting and it's always music to my ears. J should be able to hear it for the first time at our June ultrasound appointment and we can't wait to find out the baby's gender! Place your bets...do you think we're having a boy or a girl? Correct comments will win a prize!
Milestones: According to babycenter.com: Our growing baby is having a growth spurt. In the next few weeks, our baby will double his weight and add inches to his length. Right now, he's about the size of an avocado: 4 1/2 inches long (head to rump) and 3 1/2 ounces. His legs are much more developed, his head is more erect than it has been, and his eyes have moved closer to the front of his head. His ears are close to their final position, too. The patterning of his scalp has begun, though his locks aren't recognizable yet. He's even started growing toenails. And there's a lot happening inside as well. For example, his heart is now pumping about 25 quarts of blood each day, and this amount will continue to increase as our baby continues to develop.
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
More thoughts about Mother's Day
On my blog roll, I read what Pregnantly Paused had to say about Mother's Day and she included a post by The Messy Middle entitled "An open letter to pastors (A non-mom speaks about Mother's Day). The post has over 400 comments that are just as thought provoking. Both posts are a good read and thanks to Pregnantly Paused for sharing it with us.
Sunday was awkward. Last year, Mother's Day was handled well and I shared details about it in my last post. I walked into church and noticed how empty it was for the second service. I figured families were getting together for Mother's Day celebrations, but in the back of my mind I thought that perhaps some women were possibly staying away to spend their own time with God because their church experiences weren't very positive. Worship was fine, elder prayer was okay, but the elder preaching on Sunday wanted to acknowledge the mother's on a whim before he gave his sermon. Without much thought, he made a joke, which I didn't catch, but J did. Then, he asked for the men to stand up and applaud the women. I was so confused because it's typically the mom's who stand up for the applause. While being pregnant, I'm a mom already because I'm worrying like a mom, I've made sacrifices to have this child, and am continually considering the needs of the baby above my own. If asked to stand up, I would not, because I know firsthand how hurt it can make others feel very unintentionally. It didn't feel right being seated and clapped for either. Once J realized he was supposed to stand, he didn't feel compelled to participate, but he eventually stood with a friend harmlessly encouraging him to stand on my behalf. After J sat down, we gave each other "the look" and we knew exactly what the other was thinking.
I accept MD at church for what it is and hope the church can be mindful to remember those saving for fertility treatments, who are looking for a surrogate, the mothers of stillborn babies, failed adoptions, runaways, foster moms, spiritual moms, single women who are patiently waiting for a husband and who long to have a family, for the single pregnant moms, the motherless moms, and what about those who had an abusive mother or father growing up? The holidays trigger so many different issues on so many different levels.
After church, we had J's parents and grandmother over for a seafood boil. It was my first attempt. Thanks YM for the recipe! It turned out to be delicious and we'll make it again for my dad on Father's Day.
Sunday was awkward. Last year, Mother's Day was handled well and I shared details about it in my last post. I walked into church and noticed how empty it was for the second service. I figured families were getting together for Mother's Day celebrations, but in the back of my mind I thought that perhaps some women were possibly staying away to spend their own time with God because their church experiences weren't very positive. Worship was fine, elder prayer was okay, but the elder preaching on Sunday wanted to acknowledge the mother's on a whim before he gave his sermon. Without much thought, he made a joke, which I didn't catch, but J did. Then, he asked for the men to stand up and applaud the women. I was so confused because it's typically the mom's who stand up for the applause. While being pregnant, I'm a mom already because I'm worrying like a mom, I've made sacrifices to have this child, and am continually considering the needs of the baby above my own. If asked to stand up, I would not, because I know firsthand how hurt it can make others feel very unintentionally. It didn't feel right being seated and clapped for either. Once J realized he was supposed to stand, he didn't feel compelled to participate, but he eventually stood with a friend harmlessly encouraging him to stand on my behalf. After J sat down, we gave each other "the look" and we knew exactly what the other was thinking.
I accept MD at church for what it is and hope the church can be mindful to remember those saving for fertility treatments, who are looking for a surrogate, the mothers of stillborn babies, failed adoptions, runaways, foster moms, spiritual moms, single women who are patiently waiting for a husband and who long to have a family, for the single pregnant moms, the motherless moms, and what about those who had an abusive mother or father growing up? The holidays trigger so many different issues on so many different levels.
After church, we had J's parents and grandmother over for a seafood boil. It was my first attempt. Thanks YM for the recipe! It turned out to be delicious and we'll make it again for my dad on Father's Day.
Saturday, May 12, 2012
Remember the infertile on Mother's Day
Mother's Day can be an emotional day for women.
I read this post by Dr. Moore last year about Mother's Day and it's spot on.
http://www.russellmoore.com/2011/05/05/remember-the-infertile-on-mothers-day/
Another helpful post is by Justin Taylor, http://thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/justintaylor/2011/05/06/infertility-and-mothers-day/ because it sums up that this holiday can be hard for all kinds of people and for all kinds of reasons.
I recall not wanting to attend church last year on Mother's Day because I didn't know how they were going to address it, but J said it would be alright. We were new to the church and didn't know how they operated, so I expected the worst. To my surprise, I was actually pleased with how it was handled. The elder prayer was thoughtful because he remembered to pray for those who would find this day difficult and I teared up. Next, the pastor was up, and he simply said, "Happy Mother's Day" to the congregation and went on with the sermon. There was no huge display or production and I so needed that after experiencing an ectopic a month before. How have your church experiences been?
If you're dreading Mother's Day because of IF (infertility), I truly hope this will be your last one without positive results or good news. If you have kid(s) or have one on the way, "Happy Mother's Day!"
I read this post by Dr. Moore last year about Mother's Day and it's spot on.
http://www.russellmoore.com/2011/05/05/remember-the-infertile-on-mothers-day/
Another helpful post is by Justin Taylor, http://thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/justintaylor/2011/05/06/infertility-and-mothers-day/ because it sums up that this holiday can be hard for all kinds of people and for all kinds of reasons.
I recall not wanting to attend church last year on Mother's Day because I didn't know how they were going to address it, but J said it would be alright. We were new to the church and didn't know how they operated, so I expected the worst. To my surprise, I was actually pleased with how it was handled. The elder prayer was thoughtful because he remembered to pray for those who would find this day difficult and I teared up. Next, the pastor was up, and he simply said, "Happy Mother's Day" to the congregation and went on with the sermon. There was no huge display or production and I so needed that after experiencing an ectopic a month before. How have your church experiences been?
If you're dreading Mother's Day because of IF (infertility), I truly hope this will be your last one without positive results or good news. If you have kid(s) or have one on the way, "Happy Mother's Day!"
Thursday, May 10, 2012
15 weeks!
Total Weight Loss/Gain: staying at the same weight since my last OB appointment a few weeks ago. I've bought some more maternity tops and used an old navy printable coupon. This week's deal is $5 off $25 https://www.facebook.com/oldnavy?sk=app_271575822897752 Expires: 5/24/12
Sleep: Has been okay.
Movement: No flutters yet.
Cravings/Aversions: Enjoying strawberries and watermelon mostly. No aversions. :)
Symptoms: Feeling great and getting bigger. I wonder if I'm getting too big, too quickly. I'm comparing belly shots since I'm not sure what 'normal' is supposed to look like at 15 weeks. I know that every woman is different and every woman will gain weight differently, but I hope I can stay on track instead of derailing. I'd rather control what I eat now vs. work it off later. My one time bout with heartburn helped me to be better about portion control and grazing throughout the day. Per a friend's suggestion, I ordered J, The Birth Partner by Penny Simkin from Barnes & Noble so he'll know what to do when the baby is ready to come into the world. Initially, J said he wouldn't read any books about the birthing process, but since he saw me 'freak out' when I had heartburn, he's open to knowing what to expect and how to help me so we can both have a positive birth experience. The book should arrive any day now and I'm reading up on what to expect as well.
Book description: If you want to learn how best to help an expectant mother have a happy and healthy childbirth, The Birth Partner, Third Edition is the only book you'll need. For almost 20 years, husbands, partners, friends, relatives, and doulas have turned to this book for guidance on being a supportive partner in the delivery room. The expanded third edition includes the most up-to-date information about techniques, devices, and medications for easing labor pain; tests and treatments of the fetus and newborn; strategies to help labor progress; potential medical procedures and interventions; and how best to help the mother during the early days after the birth. And, with its easy-to-use format and new illustrations, the The Birth Partner is the essential guide have on hand in the delivery room.
Barnes and Noble 15% off printable coupon: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/email/print_nav.asp?pid=43257 Expires: 6/30/12
What I miss: I'm feeling content. I'm used to not eating certain foods for the baby's sake.
Nesting: Our living room mirror and painting came in! So far, the painting is up and it already adds so much character to the room. I can't wait to see what the mirror will contribute. I like an idea I found on pinterest for the hallway and that will be my next project. We found a bedroom set we like, but want to shop around a bit more. The house is slowly coming together. We had 6 years to decorate and furnish the house, but it was never a priority. The baby and the time off is getting me organized!
What I look forward to: I'm not really looking forward to this, but I get blood work next week to check my thyroid level. I feel fine and not tired, so I think my thyroid is functioning properly with my current dosage. Since I'm getting poked anyways, I opted to check for downs syndrome since it will only be an extra vile of blood. It's purpose is simply for us to be better prepared, that's all. I opted against the other tests since I didn't want to get poked and prodded more than I had to and one was too invasive. At this point, I don't want to worry and ignorance is bliss. I'm looking forward to Mother's Day this year because it's the first one, in a long time, I won't dread. Mother's Day and Father's Day is hard when struggling with IF (infertility). For the past 5 years, these 'made-up' holidays triggered my feelings of rejection and isolation. We celebrated Mother's Day and Father's Day with our parents and gladly showed our appreciation and love for them, but my heart would always ache since we're parents in heaven. I was frustrated with the feeling of already being parents, but not yet being parents. Being in limbo the past few years has been difficult and so my heart will forever go out to those who are waiting to celebrate their very own Mother's and Father's Day.
Milestones: According to babycenter.com: Our growing baby now measures about 4 inches long, crown to rump, and weighs in at about 2 1/2 ounces (about the size of an apple). He's busy moving amniotic fluid through his nose and upper respiratory tract, which helps the primitive air sacs in his lungs begin to develop. His legs are growing longer than his arms now, and he can move all of his joints and limbs. Although his eyelids are still fused shut, he can sense light. There's not much for our baby to taste at this point, but he is forming taste buds. Finally, the sex of the baby is defined!
Sleep: Has been okay.
Movement: No flutters yet.
Cravings/Aversions: Enjoying strawberries and watermelon mostly. No aversions. :)
Symptoms: Feeling great and getting bigger. I wonder if I'm getting too big, too quickly. I'm comparing belly shots since I'm not sure what 'normal' is supposed to look like at 15 weeks. I know that every woman is different and every woman will gain weight differently, but I hope I can stay on track instead of derailing. I'd rather control what I eat now vs. work it off later. My one time bout with heartburn helped me to be better about portion control and grazing throughout the day. Per a friend's suggestion, I ordered J, The Birth Partner by Penny Simkin from Barnes & Noble so he'll know what to do when the baby is ready to come into the world. Initially, J said he wouldn't read any books about the birthing process, but since he saw me 'freak out' when I had heartburn, he's open to knowing what to expect and how to help me so we can both have a positive birth experience. The book should arrive any day now and I'm reading up on what to expect as well.
Book description: If you want to learn how best to help an expectant mother have a happy and healthy childbirth, The Birth Partner, Third Edition is the only book you'll need. For almost 20 years, husbands, partners, friends, relatives, and doulas have turned to this book for guidance on being a supportive partner in the delivery room. The expanded third edition includes the most up-to-date information about techniques, devices, and medications for easing labor pain; tests and treatments of the fetus and newborn; strategies to help labor progress; potential medical procedures and interventions; and how best to help the mother during the early days after the birth. And, with its easy-to-use format and new illustrations, the The Birth Partner is the essential guide have on hand in the delivery room.
Barnes and Noble 15% off printable coupon: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/email/print_nav.asp?pid=43257 Expires: 6/30/12
What I miss: I'm feeling content. I'm used to not eating certain foods for the baby's sake.
Nesting: Our living room mirror and painting came in! So far, the painting is up and it already adds so much character to the room. I can't wait to see what the mirror will contribute. I like an idea I found on pinterest for the hallway and that will be my next project. We found a bedroom set we like, but want to shop around a bit more. The house is slowly coming together. We had 6 years to decorate and furnish the house, but it was never a priority. The baby and the time off is getting me organized!
What I look forward to: I'm not really looking forward to this, but I get blood work next week to check my thyroid level. I feel fine and not tired, so I think my thyroid is functioning properly with my current dosage. Since I'm getting poked anyways, I opted to check for downs syndrome since it will only be an extra vile of blood. It's purpose is simply for us to be better prepared, that's all. I opted against the other tests since I didn't want to get poked and prodded more than I had to and one was too invasive. At this point, I don't want to worry and ignorance is bliss. I'm looking forward to Mother's Day this year because it's the first one, in a long time, I won't dread. Mother's Day and Father's Day is hard when struggling with IF (infertility). For the past 5 years, these 'made-up' holidays triggered my feelings of rejection and isolation. We celebrated Mother's Day and Father's Day with our parents and gladly showed our appreciation and love for them, but my heart would always ache since we're parents in heaven. I was frustrated with the feeling of already being parents, but not yet being parents. Being in limbo the past few years has been difficult and so my heart will forever go out to those who are waiting to celebrate their very own Mother's and Father's Day.
Milestones: According to babycenter.com: Our growing baby now measures about 4 inches long, crown to rump, and weighs in at about 2 1/2 ounces (about the size of an apple). He's busy moving amniotic fluid through his nose and upper respiratory tract, which helps the primitive air sacs in his lungs begin to develop. His legs are growing longer than his arms now, and he can move all of his joints and limbs. Although his eyelids are still fused shut, he can sense light. There's not much for our baby to taste at this point, but he is forming taste buds. Finally, the sex of the baby is defined!
Thursday, May 3, 2012
14 weeks!
Since I'm off schedule with blogging and already posted earlier this week, I don't have much to document except that I feel like nesting. I have this new energy and I want to get the house in order as much as I possibly can before we find out the gender of the baby. Then, I can work on the nursery! My current project involves wall hangings in our living room and it's not an easy task because J and I have to first agree on the painting, photo, or mirror and then decide if we can live with it for the rest of our lives. It would be nice if I had an interior decorator as a friend to get some more creative juices flowing. Tomorrow, our double oven gets installed since the old oven took an unusually long time to cook certain foods. It's sad, but I am excited to put this new appliance to good cooking and baking use. We also need to get some other things fixed around the house and I hope the estimates will be within our budget.
Milestone: Per babycenter.com, our baby can now squint, frown, grimace, pee, and possibly suck his thumb! Thanks to brain impulses, his facial muscles are getting a workout as his tiny features form one expression after another. His kidneys are producing urine, which he releases into the amniotic fluid around him — a process he'll keep up until birth. In other news: our baby's stretching out. From head to bottom, he measures 3 1/2 inches — about the size of a lemon — and he weighs 1 1/2 ounces. His body's growing faster than his head, which now sits upon a more distinct neck. By the end of this week, his arms will have grown to a length that's in proportion to the rest of his body. (His legs still have some lengthening to do.) He's starting to develop an ultra-fine, downy covering of hair, called lanugo, all over his body. Our baby's liver starts making bile this week — a sign that it's doing its job right — and his spleen starts helping in the production of red blood cells. Though I can't feel his tiny punches and kicks yet, our little pugilist's hands and feet (which now measure about 1/2 inch long) are more flexible and active.
Milestone: Per babycenter.com, our baby can now squint, frown, grimace, pee, and possibly suck his thumb! Thanks to brain impulses, his facial muscles are getting a workout as his tiny features form one expression after another. His kidneys are producing urine, which he releases into the amniotic fluid around him — a process he'll keep up until birth. In other news: our baby's stretching out. From head to bottom, he measures 3 1/2 inches — about the size of a lemon — and he weighs 1 1/2 ounces. His body's growing faster than his head, which now sits upon a more distinct neck. By the end of this week, his arms will have grown to a length that's in proportion to the rest of his body. (His legs still have some lengthening to do.) He's starting to develop an ultra-fine, downy covering of hair, called lanugo, all over his body. Our baby's liver starts making bile this week — a sign that it's doing its job right — and his spleen starts helping in the production of red blood cells. Though I can't feel his tiny punches and kicks yet, our little pugilist's hands and feet (which now measure about 1/2 inch long) are more flexible and active.
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
13 weeks!
On Friday, I had my 2nd OB appointment with Dr. G. I went to the appointment prepared with my list of questions and I got to hear the baby's heartbeat on the doppler! It was brief, music to my ears, and I completely forgot to ask how fast the baby's heart was beating. J was disappointed that he didn't get to hear the heartbeat yet. I wish I had known or he would've come. Everything checked out OK and I see another OB in the practice, Dr. M, in 4 weeks.
Total Weight Loss/Gain: I gained a total of 12 lbs. during my first trimester. 4 lbs/month isn't too bad since I basically ate and slept.
Sleep: Has been fine.
Movement: No flutters yet.
Cravings/Aversions: I'm wanting more flavor in my drinks, but OB said to cut back on my craving for juice. I love Trader Joe's pineapple juice! I'm trying to drink more water with lemon, instead.
Symptoms: Now that I'm in my 2nd trimester, I'm not as tired anymore! I have so much more energy now that I did some gardening over the weekend. My goal is get some things checked off my "to do" list before 3rd trimester.
What I miss: Eating sushi!
What I look forward to: I'm looking forward to finding out the gender of our baby. I think it's a girl and J thinks it's a boy. I wonder who'll be right.
Milestones: According to babycenter.com: Fingerprints have formed on our baby's tiny fingertips, her veins and organs are clearly visible through her still-thin skin, and her body is starting to catch up with her head — which makes up just a third of her body size now. If you're having a girl, she now has more than 2 million eggs in her ovaries. Your baby is almost 3 inches long (the size of a medium shrimp) and weighs nearly an ounce.
Something scary: Last night, around 9 pm, I felt some upper back pain. It led into feeling like indigestion and I went upstairs to lie down. The pain grew worse, I sat up, and I had severe chest pain. I couldn't breathe, my chest was burning, and I started to panic because I didn't know what was happening. I started to cry and called for J. I said we needed to go to the ER because I felt like I was having a heart attack, had hot flashes, was dizzy, and couldn't get my bearings. I told J to call his sister and thankfully she picked up. She suggested I take some Tums or sip some ginger ale. We had Tums and J gave me 4 tablets. I quickly chewed them and the pain subsided. I had HEARTBURN and it was awful! I never had heartburn before. If that's what a heart attack feels like, I never EVER want to experience that again! For the record, I'd like to die in my sleep or have a silent heart attack if I'm supposed to have one. Some of the acidic ingredients in my meal included whole grain Dijon mustard in the chicken marinade, tomatoes and vinegar in my salad, and a triple layer chocolate cake for dessert. It's a meal I will never forget!
Here's a helpful article from babycenter.org about heartburn:
Many women experience heartburn for the first time during pregnancy — and though it's common and generally harmless, it can be quite uncomfortable.
Heartburn (also called acid indigestion or acid reflux) is a burning sensation that often extends from the bottom of the breastbone to the lower throat. It's caused by some of the hormonal and physical changes in your body.
During pregnancy, the placenta produces the hormone progesterone, which relaxes the smooth muscles of the uterus. This hormone also relaxes the valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach, allowing gastric acids to seep back up, which causes that unpleasant burning sensation.
Progesterone also slows down the wavelike contractions of your esophagus and intestines, making digestion sluggish. Later in pregnancy, your growing baby crowds your abdominal cavity, pushing the stomach acids back up into the esophagus.
Many women start experiencing heartburn and other gastrointestinal discomforts in the second half of pregnancy. Unfortunately, it usually comes and goes until your baby is born.
Total Weight Loss/Gain: I gained a total of 12 lbs. during my first trimester. 4 lbs/month isn't too bad since I basically ate and slept.
Sleep: Has been fine.
Movement: No flutters yet.
Cravings/Aversions: I'm wanting more flavor in my drinks, but OB said to cut back on my craving for juice. I love Trader Joe's pineapple juice! I'm trying to drink more water with lemon, instead.
Symptoms: Now that I'm in my 2nd trimester, I'm not as tired anymore! I have so much more energy now that I did some gardening over the weekend. My goal is get some things checked off my "to do" list before 3rd trimester.
What I miss: Eating sushi!
What I look forward to: I'm looking forward to finding out the gender of our baby. I think it's a girl and J thinks it's a boy. I wonder who'll be right.
Milestones: According to babycenter.com: Fingerprints have formed on our baby's tiny fingertips, her veins and organs are clearly visible through her still-thin skin, and her body is starting to catch up with her head — which makes up just a third of her body size now. If you're having a girl, she now has more than 2 million eggs in her ovaries. Your baby is almost 3 inches long (the size of a medium shrimp) and weighs nearly an ounce.
Something scary: Last night, around 9 pm, I felt some upper back pain. It led into feeling like indigestion and I went upstairs to lie down. The pain grew worse, I sat up, and I had severe chest pain. I couldn't breathe, my chest was burning, and I started to panic because I didn't know what was happening. I started to cry and called for J. I said we needed to go to the ER because I felt like I was having a heart attack, had hot flashes, was dizzy, and couldn't get my bearings. I told J to call his sister and thankfully she picked up. She suggested I take some Tums or sip some ginger ale. We had Tums and J gave me 4 tablets. I quickly chewed them and the pain subsided. I had HEARTBURN and it was awful! I never had heartburn before. If that's what a heart attack feels like, I never EVER want to experience that again! For the record, I'd like to die in my sleep or have a silent heart attack if I'm supposed to have one. Some of the acidic ingredients in my meal included whole grain Dijon mustard in the chicken marinade, tomatoes and vinegar in my salad, and a triple layer chocolate cake for dessert. It's a meal I will never forget!
Here's a helpful article from babycenter.org about heartburn:
Many women experience heartburn for the first time during pregnancy — and though it's common and generally harmless, it can be quite uncomfortable.
Heartburn (also called acid indigestion or acid reflux) is a burning sensation that often extends from the bottom of the breastbone to the lower throat. It's caused by some of the hormonal and physical changes in your body.
During pregnancy, the placenta produces the hormone progesterone, which relaxes the smooth muscles of the uterus. This hormone also relaxes the valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach, allowing gastric acids to seep back up, which causes that unpleasant burning sensation.
Progesterone also slows down the wavelike contractions of your esophagus and intestines, making digestion sluggish. Later in pregnancy, your growing baby crowds your abdominal cavity, pushing the stomach acids back up into the esophagus.
Many women start experiencing heartburn and other gastrointestinal discomforts in the second half of pregnancy. Unfortunately, it usually comes and goes until your baby is born.
What can I do about it?
Though you may not be able to eliminate heartburn entirely, you can take steps to minimize your discomfort:- Avoid food and beverages that cause you gastrointestinal distress. The usual suspects are carbonated drinks; alcohol (which you should avoid anyway during pregnancy); caffeine; chocolate; acidic foods like citrus fruits and juices, tomatoes, mustard, and vinegar; processed meats; mint products; and spicy, highly seasoned, fried, or fatty foods.
- Don't eat big meals. Instead, eat several small meals throughout the day. Take your time eating and chew thoroughly.
- Avoid drinking large quantities of fluids during meals — you don't want to distend your stomach. (It's important to drink eight to ten glasses of water daily during pregnancy, but sip it between meals.)
- Try chewing gum after eating. Chewing gum stimulates your salivary glands, and saliva can help neutralize acid.
- Don't eat close to bedtime. Give yourself two to three hours to digest before you lie down.
- Sleep propped up with several pillows or a wedge. Elevating your upper body will help keep your stomach acids where they belong and will aid your digestion.
- Gain a sensible amount of weight, and stay within the guidelines your healthcare provider suggests.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Avoid any tightness around your waist and tummy.
- Bend at the knees instead of at the waist.
- Don't smoke — in addition to contributing to a host of serious health problems, smoking boosts stomach acidity. (Ideally, smoking is a habit you should break before getting pregnant. If you're still smoking and are having trouble quitting, ask your caregiver for a referral to a smoking-cessation program.)
- An over-the-counter antacid that contains magnesium or calcium may ease discomfort, but check with your prenatal caregiver before taking one, because some brands contain aluminum or aspirin or are high in sodium.
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