June 2008 Pregnancy Thread

[SooCookie]

I'll get us started for June! Let me know if I need to make any changes or updates. Are there any lurkers ready to out themselves?;)

Pregnancy List:
sweetpea - 5/25 - surprise!
Kerri - 6/9 - surprise!
honeygirl1971 - 6/20/ - boy!
Jen - 8/6 - surprise!
JRM24 - 8/20 - surprise!
tholbrook - 8/23 - girl!
Megan James - 8/25 - boy!
Willybean - 9/? - girl!
SooCookie- 9/14 – boy!
mabvt - 10/6 - surprise!
lbd- 10/7 - girl!
Luv to Cook- 11/?
Bekki - 11/26 - twins!
ChristyMarie – 11/28
Helios – 11/28
MaryMorph - 12/18

Welcome:
mst - Shayna Abigail - 5/5
SusanPC - Madeline Grace (Maddie) - 5/8
erinlovesmarc - Tyler - 5/19
2HUNGRY! - Ryan - 5/24

No news from me so far. Just feeling really large these days. I thought I would start the list this month so I have something to contribute! Hope everyone is doing well!

Michelle

[Kerri]

Thanks for getting started Soocookie!

Mine is not an unusual story. Somehow, I got it in my head that I was going to have my baby early. Friday night, I started having contractions and I thought to myself, "this is it!" I had contractions the remainder of Friday night and all through Saturday, before they finally just stopped Saturday night. Then nothing. I had my appointment today and have made no progress...which is hard to hear, even though I know it doesn't mean anything. However, I am sooooooo depressed that it doesn't look like I am going to have this baby anytime soon, even though, pul-lease, I am only 39 weeks. It was so hard for me to turn down the offer of non-medically necessary induction for this week. I mean, I already had my 24 hour labor, all be it false labor, can't I just skip to the end?

Alright, whine over, hopefully at least sweetpea will have some good news soon!

[Megan James]

June? Wow.
SooCookie if you can still edit I am having a boy.

I can't believe it's the third trimester. Yahoo! The first felt about 3 years long, the 2nd about 1 year. Maybe this one will only feel like 3 months!

I've finally started nesting, thank goodness. For a while it was looking like the poor boy was going to have to sleep in one of the drawers of the desk that my computer sits on. I ordered fabric for the curtains today and am trying to order the wall stickers I want to use. They are from the UK and the original vendor doesn't ship to the US. I've made inquiries to 2 other vendors who stock them, hopefully someone will come through. They are stickers that you use to make a mural in the room, great for the totally unartistic types like me. I can see the vision but I can't draw/paint to save my life.

I'm doing fine physically, my major issue being sharp round ligament pain in my left groin. Running may or may not aggravate it. Since it still hurts when I don't run for several day and running keeps me sane I'm continuing to run a couple times a week. My midwife says go for it, she told me during my last pregnancy that she knows not to try to stop people like me :).

We visited the new L&D area at our hospital last week. It's nice and I got to see the birthing tub. I'm thinking of giving it a try, I'd much rather labor in a nice warm tub than on a bed. We'll see how things go. The best would be a super quick labor where the tub wasn't even an option. They did tell us on our tour than in the year the new L&D unit has been open "only 4" people have delivered in the lobby.

Tomorrow is a breastfeeding class. I just stopped nursing my 2 year old in January but I had some issues at first and want to do everything possible to not have issues with this little fellow. I figure if it's boring and I'm tired I can always leave early.

Kerri. It will be soon!:D

[lbd]

Megan - can you post info about the wall stickers? Count me in as one with little artistic talent. I was actually eyeing the sticker pack at the party store a few weeks ago and wondering if they would work as permanent decoration.

I don't have much to report. I did an early glucose test on Friday and didn't hear anything today which I'm taking as a good sign. They said they'll only call if there's a problem and should have the results by Wed at the latest.

[MaryMorph]

I outed myself at work today, so I guess I'll out myself here, as well.

I'm 12 weeks along with baby #2, due 12/18. I've been lucky to have avoided morning sickness for the most part, but I've been dead tired for 3 months.

Miscarriage paranoia has run rampant (I don't remember who posted the miscarriage article last month but it was right on!). When I was pregnant with my son, I was working in a very large women's hospital; now I'm working in a children's hospital. It's hard not to see all of the bad things that can happen and not take them to heart. I've had a miscarriage in the past, and know that I have a medical condition that predisposes me to them. I had my 2nd ultrasound today, though, and am starting to feel like this one will take.


My 3 y/o has no idea what's in store for him, but hopefully, it will be a somewhat smooth transition to big-brotherness. He's a great kid and I pray that we'll be as lucky with the next one.

Thanks for taking me in!

mary jo

[Megan James]

Megan - can you post info about the wall stickers?

The ones I like from the UK are at this website:
http://www.kidzdens.co.uk (http://www.kidzdens.co.uk/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=141_173&products_id=909&osCsid=252b90b6a65de34cbac2847646d9519c)

Some other similar sites are:
http://www.create-a-mural.citymax.com/catalog/item/2827304/2317970.htm

http://storesense4.megawebservers.com/modernwallgraphics_com/Categories.bok?category=All

I googled things like "Wall stickers" and "wall murals" and came up with a bunch of sites.

[SooCookie]

Megan, I updated your info, and welcome to Mary! Hope you continue to avoid the morning sickness that just subsided for me!

Hope to hear good news from sweetpea soon, and Kerri, I think you absolutely did the right thing by turning down the induction. The contractions you were having did something, even if there are no visible signs of it. That baby will come soon, I promise!

[mabvt]

Hi Girls-

Welcome Mary!

Checking in at 22 weeks (I had to count!)

I had my ultrasound a couple of weeks ago. It was at the high risk office--DH has a genetic heart condition. So we met with a genetic counselor, had the ultrasound and met with a perinatologist (sp?). Everything went so well. To see the baby was amazing. We stayed strong and didn't find out the sex.
Talking to the counselor was great too. I have another US scheduled for July when the heart is more developed and baby is bigger- but so far, so good! :)

My baby bump is starting to show. Though I think it is still dwarfed by my (ahem) blossoming chest.

Four more days of school!:D

[tholbrook]

I can't believe it's the third trimester. Yahoo! The first felt about 3 years long, the 2nd about 1 year. Maybe this one will only feel like 3 months!
...
I'm doing fine physically, my major issue being sharp round ligament pain in my left groin. Running may or may not aggravate it. Since it still hurts when I don't run for several day and running keeps me sane I'm continuing to run a couple times a week. My midwife says go for it, she told me during my last pregnancy that she knows not to try to stop people like me :).
Megan, I'm right there with you... it seems like it has taken forever to get to the 3rd trimester. And then I'm surprised because it also seems like I just found out that I was pregnant. I'm so not ready!

And I get the round ligament pain when I run too, only on the right side. It seems to subside after about a mile or so. The only other time it bothers me is when I turn over in bed too quickly. Did you run all the way through your previous pregnancy, or did you eventually get too uncomfortable? I can feel the extra weight stressing my shins, so I'm not sure how much longer I can keep it up.

Congrats on the little boy - that's wonderful!

Not a lot happening with me. It was a bit shocking to see my name so far up the list this time. :eek: I remember reading the posts over the last few months where blood glucose tests were mentioned, and thinking that it sure seemed a long ways away. But here I am, with the test scheduled next week. With my last ultrasound, they were concerned about placenta previa, but with the additional testing, my doctor said it should be fine (they determined I have a low-lying placenta), but of course, they'll look again later on. Meanwhile, no restrictions on my activity, unless of course, I start having problems.

I've been feeling great for the most part. My only gripes at this point are the heartburn (fortunately it's just occasionally) and lack of appetite. And although I can't complain about the (what seems like) almost constant movement of the baby, it wakes me up every hour or two, and I can't remember the last time I really got a good night's sleep. Still, it's pretty cool! :D DH and I were watching my belly literally shift and move around this evening.

We picked a date for my dad to come out and visit. He has to put his time off on the schedule several months in advance, so I'm crossing my fingers that the baby will arrive while he's here. I think I've mentioned that this is his first grandchild, and he's really excited. He's so funny - every time I talk to him, he wants to know how big my belly is :rolleyes: so I finally sent him a picture the other day. But between me being on the tall side, and carrying so low, there still isn't much to see.

[bekki]

First, Welcome Mary Jo!

Next, I found this on another messgae board from like a year ago, but I thought it was cute (although, I loathe the word preggers). It;s from a magazine or something :)

CAFE PREGGERS!

We always have just what you want, at any stage of pregnancy-from the queasy beginning to those last weeks when the baby has taken up every ounce of spare room in your belly.

~First Trimester Menu~
Appetizer:
Tums compote
Entree:
Fresh Saltines on a bed of Saltines, lightly seasoned with Saltines
Beverage:
Ginger Ale (IV available upon request)
Dessert:
Ten minutes in a dim room with an ice bag on your head


~Second Trimester Menu~
Appetizer:
Half a roast chicken, extra crispy
Entree: **
A succulent leg of lamb smothered in pork chops, served with BBQ ribs and garnished with cheeseburgers (all burnt beyond recognition for your safety)
Beverage
Toll-House pie smoothie, prepared with 1/2 pint heavy cream
Dessert:
9" by 16" pan of double-fudge brownies


~Third Trimester Menu~
(Each course followed by 15-minute neck massage and/or bathroom break)
Appetizer:
Three bites tossed salad
Entree:
Two bites of lasagna
Beverage:
None so you have room for dessert
Dessert:
A Tic Tac



**DOUBLE PORTIONS AVAILABLE IF YOU'RE EXPECTING TWINS

[mabvt]

Just finished nearly an entire box of Triscuits and a cupcake and popped in to read Bekki's post. Can you guess which trimester I'm in? :D

Melissa

[Pony]

Well, I'm going to out myself now that I've had 3 successful appts. :D Count me as one of the miscarriage paranoia followers!! I had 2 m/c'es in 2006 and I've never gotten this far! I'm still in shock. And I'm still early, but feeling good today. I'm 8 weeks and 4 days and have heard the heartbeat and seen the baby at two different occasions one being today. I am doing a few things different this pg recommended by my Hematologist and OB. I'm taking a baby aspirin/day, 5 mg folic acid/day, 50 mg B6/day, and progesterone. Not sure if this is what is making a difference, but mabye!

So, my due date is 1/11/09. :) I've been feeling fine. A few food aversions, nausea once in a while but no vomitting, but I'm VERY bloated, hungry every 2 hours, sleepy, and very happy that I have a reason to put a bra on!

And I must say it is only fitting for Amanda (sweetpea) to be leaving this thread as I arrive. It looks like she hasn't popped in today, but in her email today it sounded like she may be heading to the hospital any moment now!

[valchemist]

hooray, michelle. I got goosebumps reading your post. :) !!

and thanks for the update on amanda. looking forward to her news!

and congrats to mary morph. my first child was 3 1/2 when baby #2 was born and it is a great age split.

[helios7]

I have to say, I'm reading the posts about running with shock and awe. Now, granted I'm not in the world's most fantastic shape (i've got a lot of work ahead of me post-delivery) but I'm SO TIRED getting through my life right now, that I can't even imagine running! :eek:

I'm still waiting for this boost of energy that supposedly arrives in the second tri. Any day now would be great. I'm beat. My schedule is just killing me these days - it will lighten by the end of July but that just seems so far! The 6+ bathroom trips PER NIGHT continue to zap my ability to rest... heaven help me when this baby gets bigger as the multiple trips have been a symptom since day 1. And while this week I'm 0 for 3 in terms of headaches, last week was brutal.

I really want to relax and enjoy this, but I'm wishing I had a desk job right about now. Trucking around the city to work in various preschool classrooms is much more tiring now then I expected. Oh, and while I'm complaining... could I develop a bump a bit faster and stop looking fat? That'd be great, thanks. ;)

Welcome to Pony and Mary Morph. It has only been in the past couple weeks (post NT scan at 12 weeks) that I've really started to think this baby will arrive. It was much harder then I thought to get through the first tri following my miscarriage... hang in there. Even with all my complaining, I'm happy to be where I am. I'd just like a permanent paid vacation to enjoy it! :)

Can't wait to hear from sweetpea and kerri ... so many babies lately. :)

[Pony]

hooray, michelle. I got goosebumps reading your post. :) !!

and thanks for the update on amanda. looking forward to her news!

and congrats to mary morph. my first child was 3 1/2 when baby #2 was born and it is a great age split.

Val, thanks :D.
Last email I got from Amanda was early today. She said she had an appt and all went well. She was at home with some "tolerable" contractions, Emma was at her grandma's, her husband stayed home from work, and was having a stress free day. I'm sure something is happening :D

Welcome to Pony and Mary Morph. It has only been in the past couple weeks (post NT scan at 12 weeks) that I've really started to think this baby will arrive. It was much harder then I thought to get through the first tri following my miscarriage... hang in there. Even with all my complaining, I'm happy to be where I am. I'd just like a permanent paid vacation to enjoy it! :)

Thanks for the welcome. :) I am looking forward to hitting another milestone. I feel really confident for a week after my appts. and then my mind plays games. Luckily, I have an appt. again in about 2 weeks! :)

Michelle

[SooCookie]

Welcome, Michelle - from another Michelle! :D Congratulations!
Unfortunately, I can't edit the list anymore. We will get you on there next month.

[Jen]

I am embarrassed to be posting again after so long! I have kept up with reading this thread, but just haven't managed to post anything. It's been exciting to see all the new arrivals and the newly pregnant people join!

I am 7 months pregnant (31 weeks tomorrow) and I wish I could say I feel good, but actually I feel pretty awful. I hate to complain, because I know how lucky I am to even BE pregnant, but I really haven't enjoyed this pregnancy much at all. Such a change from my first, when I loved every minute!! Despite being lighter to start with this time and only gaining around 6-7 lbs so far, I am having really significant pain that's hard to get past - it started in my feet and now is in my ankles, shins, and knees. I feel like an 80-year-old woman most of the time, hobbling around. It's quite embarrassing. I take transit to work and do a lot of walking and going up and down stairs, and it's getting worse by the day. Most mornings I have to take a couple of Tylenol to even face the commute. I'm getting worried that the problems might not just be due to the pregnancy...my mom developed arthritis at a younger age than I am now, and I've had minor symptoms on and off for several years, but I'm worried that this pain will continue past the end of the pregnancy.

On top of the pain, I have been sick since mid-December. Literally!! I had a cold for about 3 months (a real cold, not just pregnancy stuffiness), and even when it mostly went away, I've been left with a sore throat and no voice. The worst part is that I can't sing at all...we do a lot of singing in our house, and not to be able to sing my daughter to sleep or participate in church is killing me. Again, I really hope it gets better after the baby comes, but if not, I'm demanding to see a specialist. I just hope my voice hasn't been permanently damaged!!

Sorry for all the complaining...I just wish I could put all this aside and enjoy this pregnancy, but it's been rough. Thank God I've had no significant morning sickness - I know I need to count my blessings!!

On the plus side, baby seems to be doing great. We didn't find out what we're having although my suspicion is boy. This one moves constantly, very different from my first! It's mostly rolling movement as opposed to kicking. It also seems to kick/punch straight down a lot...again, something I never experienced with #1. Another reason I figure it must be a boy...seems to already be obsessed with the "escape hatch"!!

I've already written a novel here, but a quick question - anyone experienced, or know of someone who has experienced, a successful vaginal delivery with an android pelvis? I've assumed all along that I would have a scheduled C-section (can go into more detail about why if anyone is interested) but now I'm doubting that decision and am wondering if I should attempt a trial of labour even with potentially low chance of success. Ack, too many decisions to make!! If anyone has experience with android pelvis and non-Caesarean delivery, I'd love to hear about it.

Again, congratulations to all the new moms, and thanks for posting pictures of your beautiful babies! It helps the rest of us to be reminded of the light at the end of the tunnel! :D

[Pony]

Yay!
Amanda (sweetpea) just called and Jack Philip was born last night!!! She sounded great and said Jack is adorable. :D:)

Congratulations Amanda!

[SusanPC]

Well, I'm going to out myself now that I've had 3 successful appts. :D Count me as one of the miscarriage paranoia followers!! I had 2 m/c'es in 2006 and I've never gotten this far! I'm still in shock. And I'm still early, but feeling good today. I'm 8 weeks and 4 days and have heard the heartbeat and seen the baby at two different occasions one being today. I am doing a few things different this pg recommended by my Hematologist and OB. I'm taking a baby aspirin/day, 5 mg folic acid/day, 50 mg B6/day, and progesterone. Not sure if this is what is making a difference, but mabye!

When I saw you had posted on this thread, I had to pop in hoping you were joining. I am so, so happy for you! Enjoy your pregnancy!

FWIW, I took prog for the first 11 weeks, baby aspirin for the first 14 and Folgard in addition to my prenatal for the duration (and still am taking it). Not sure if it was the trick (since I had the m/c previously not taking these) but I will sure do it again!

Congrats again!


Sweetpea--Congrats to you on the birth of your little one!!!

[Beth H]

Can I join in as well? I've also had two miscarriages in the past - I'm at 10 weeks now and just saw the baby for the first time yesterday. So far, so good. I've felt lousy some days and OK others - hopefully I'll have a few months of feeing OK. For next month's list, my due date is 12/30/08.

[Pony]

When I saw you had posted on this thread, I had to pop in hoping you were joining. I am so, so happy for you! Enjoy your pregnancy!

FWIW, I took prog for the first 11 weeks, baby aspirin for the first 14 and Folgard in addition to my prenatal for the duration (and still am taking it). Not sure if it was the trick (since I had the m/c previously not taking these) but I will sure do it again!

Congrats again!

Thanks Susan!! Congratulations on your little one!

Can I join in as well? I've also had two miscarriages in the past - I'm at 10 weeks now and just saw the baby for the first time yesterday. So far, so good. I've felt lousy some days and OK others - hopefully I'll have a few months of feeing OK. For next month's list, my due date is 12/30/08.

Welcome Beth! Congratulations. Have you done anything different with this pg?

Michelle

[2HUNGRY!]

Delurking -- Pony and Beth congrats! What great news! I am so happy for both of you!

[sweetpea]

Welcome Beth and my dearest Pony! I am SO excited!

well, baby Jack Philip did indeed arrive Tuesday night at 10 p.m.--with the cord wrapped 6 times around his little neck! My OB stripped my membranes at my appt that a.m. and i was having regular contractions by 11:30 a.m. and headed to our awesome hospital about 4:30 p.m. I was 6-7 cm when we arrived and contractions were 2-3 min. apart but not real intense yet. i stayed that way till about 8 p.m. (i think!) and then our doula suggested we try ni**le stimulation (a bit like being milked like a cow--DH and i laughed the whole time). It worked FAST--my contractions were much more intense and about 3 every 10 minutes--all within 10-15 min. of starting the "milking" :)

From there it went fast and got really hard. DH and doula were awesome--not sure how long i pushed for but it took a while to get his head past the pelvic bone and once i did then my ob declared i wasn't having a c-section THIS time! He is perfectly wonderful--weighed 7 lbs. 13 oz. and 19 1/2 inches long (much smaller than we thought he'd be! my placenta was really big...sorry TMI). He is nursing great and we are home recooperating. The recovering for me is so much better than c-section and I'm so thankful we had the natural VBAC birth we had been hoping for!

I'll post pictures soon...need to get them off my camera first!

[MaryMorph]

So I failed my NT test this week. My OB called yesterday and said that my normal odds were 1/213, but mine were 1/53. It's still less than a 2 percent chance of Down's, but I'm alot nervous. They were just able to do the blood test and the neck screen--baby wouldn't show his face for the nose measurement. The doc said that may possibly decrease my risk, but still not to normal for my age. I can't have an amnio until I'm 14 weeks along and then it's another 2 weeks before the results come back, so it's going to be a month before we know for sure. I'd rather know now and have time to adjust than finding out in the delivery room, but it's going to be a stressful month!

Jen---have they discussed the possiblilty of Osteoporosis of Pregnancy with you? My college roommate was recently diagnosed with that; in the 3rd trimester, the baby can really suck the calcium out of your bones and result in significant pain. It's pretty unusual (300 cases in the US per year) and self limiting---one is back to normal 2-3 months after delivery in most cases. They've also told her that she's not at any higher risk of developing osteoporosis later in life because of this. In her case, she was having significant hip pain---to the point that she could barely sit down. She ended up being on crutches for a few months (including after delivery---good times--a 3 year old, an 18 month old and a newborn while on crutches!), but is feeling fine now. Just a thought!

mary jo

[honeygirl1971]

Hi all--

Sorry I haven't posted in a long time, I don't usually have a whole lot to add and I have SO little time to get on the computer with a 22 month old and a baby due any time now (or so the doc says, I am 38 weeks). The docs all say my labor is going to go FAST FAST FAST this time so that's really the only thing I'm worried about--they say I need to book to the hospital as soon as the water breaks or "real" contractions start, otherwise I might not make it! :eek:

Mary Jo, with my first baby I got wonky maternal blood screening results and so had an amnio. I was SO anxious about it--both the amnio itself and also the risk of it revealing major problems, but everything turned out fine. I can't PROMISE that yours will be the same, of course, but the stats are on your side and I can say that I don't regret doing the amnio for a second. With this pregnancy, I just went straight to amnio and didn't bother with the NT test, the blood screening, or any of that (but I am 36). Again, I don't regret it for a second and found the whole thing to be a very positive experience.

Congrats to all the newly preggo ladies, good luck to those of you having babies SOON like me (Kerri! :D), and I hope everyone else is hanging in there and doing well!

[2HUNGRY!]

Mary Jo -- Hang in there I had a bad NT scan as well. All of the measureents were fine, but blood work came back abnormal. We did the level II ultrasound at around 16 weeks and they were able to decrease our odds from 1/82 to 1/164. It was better but still not great. We decided to not do the amnio though since they couldn't see anything in the ultrasounds. He was born two weeks ago, and is absolutely perfect. The waiting is the hardest part, and even though you know that the odds are in your favor its still a very very scary thing to hear. I'll be thinking about you.

ETA: Congrats Sweetpea! I'm glad to heard everything went well with the VBAC and that recovery was better.

[Pony]

Jen, hope you are feeling better. How is your daughter handling the news of a sibling? :)

Thanks for the congratulations 2Hungry. Glad you all are settling in well. How is the house? I lurked last month and read that you had some flooding!!!

Amanda, :):):):) xoxoxoxo

Mary, sorry about the added stress from the NT scan. I know people who have gone through the same thing and everything ends up going well. Will be thinking of you this month.

honeygirl, are they thinking your labor will go fast, b/c it is your 2nd? how far away is the hospital from you?

I've been trying to figure out what tests I want/don't want or need done. They have me scheduled for genetic counseling and tests in July, but I really don't know if I want them all. I have another appt. w/ my doctor on 6/19 and will ask more questions. I've been in a daze with this pregnancy and haven't really thought ahead for anything except no traveling for the holidays :p. I'm not going to be over 35, they consider multiple m/c'es at 3 or more and I've had 2, and do not have a family hx of anything of concern, so not sure why I need genetic counseling and some of the testing. Anyway, all is going well here still. I hit 9 weeks yesterday :D. I haven't been doing any exercising :(, b/c I was trying to be very careful w/ this 1st trimester. I'm thinking I will soon start getting my walks in again, just no biking 24 miles a day to/from work anymore :(.

Michelle

[honeygirl1971]

Pony, my first baby was born after only 2.5 hours active labor, so that's why they think this one will go fast. We're about 35 minutes from the hospital, which shouldn't be a problem as long as we leave right away when things get going. I hope my water breaks before the labor contractions start (which is what happened last time) so that we'll actually have more time, but we'll see! As for the genetic counseling, IMO you should go ahead and do it. The counseling itself is totally risk-free, and they'll explain all the odds to you so that you can make an informed decision. You may very well decide to forgo all testing, but you want to make that decision from a place of knowledge, you know? I had genetic counseling before my second amnio (my first was in France, and they don't do genetic counseling in most cases) and I thought it was really helpful and informative. In my experience, they don't push testing, they just explain what the tests can and can't do and what your risks are given your family history, genetic makeup, age, and other factors. Some of the tests might be worth doing (like the AFP etc) because they don't pose any risk, but they also aren't that accurate, but that's the kind of the thing a genetic counselor can explain really well! That's just my opinion, though--take it with a grain of salt!

[Couperine]

Congratulations Sweetpea and welcome Jack!

[Jen]

Amanda, congratulations! I didn't realize you had a C-section your first time around. Was your reason the same as mine (pelvis shape) or was it for some other reason?

Congratulations and welcome, Michelle and Beth!

Mary Jo, sorry to hear about the NT scan. I don't have any words of wisdom to offer, but I hope everything works out for the best! I'm sure waiting must be so incredibly difficult. And thanks for the suggestion about the pain I've been having - no one has mentioned this, but I wonder?? I went back to my GP today and he seems to think it's just because my ligaments are loosening up and causing less support for my joints, and that it should go away within 6 months :eek: of delivery. The thought of dealing with this pain as well as postpartum pain (whether VBAC or C-section) is not very appealing, but oh well! Hopefully it will get better eventually and I won't be stuck with it long-term.

DD is so, so excited about her new baby brother or sister. It's cool that she's a bit older (will be 4 tomorrow - I can't believe it!!) so she really seems to get what's going on. I'm sure the reality won't meet her expectations, but it's cute to see how excited she is. She is going to be a great big sister! I think that's actually one of the things that I'm most looking forward to this time, is seeing how she is with the new baby.

[EvelynH]

Hello! I'm a long time lurker, and am expecting. This will be my second- I have a 14-month little boy. I'm due on December 7, and am excited that I will be finding out the gender next week. I'm praying for a girl, but will be happy with a boy. I'm a SAHM, and am a little worried that having 2 children under 2 years will be overwhelming. I try to reassure myself by telling myself that lots of parents have young children, and they manage. But I'm still worried! :o

[Pony]

Welcome Evelyn. My sweet sweet grandmother's name was Evelyn. If I get my way and if we have a girl, I would love to name our baby Evelyn. :) My friend is now a SAHM and is expecting her 2nd when her little girl will be 14 months!! I can't believe it. Very exciting, but I know she can do it. I think there are a handful of women on the boards who have 2 under 2. :)

Jen, hope you find some relief from the pain. I'm glad you little girl is excited!!!

honeygirl, thanks for the info. I think we may go ahead, but I need to double check my insurance covers everything.

I've been doing fine. 10 weeks on Friday!!! I have an appt. on the 19th and can't wait for it to get here. I always feel really confident and positive a few days after my appts. and then time passes and the fear settles back in. Not to put a damper on things, but a close friend of mine who was one week behind me just m/c'ed :( after she heard the heartbeat. I have been telling myself that things are fine w/ me, b/c I've heard the heartbeat and am further along then my other pg's and then I hear the news about my friend. I realize this is my pg and no one elses (besides my husband :p) and that all of our appts have been great w/ good news, so all is well as far as we know. So, I'm just eagerly waiting for my next appt. My husband has been so extremely supportive w/ all my fears and has been trying so hard to get me to enjoy this time right now. :)

Hope everyone is doing well.

Michelle

[Beth H]

I always feel really confident and positive a few days after my appts. and then time passes and the fear settles back in.

I have these same feelings - especially now that I (finally) am feeling a bit better and more like myself. Without the really strong nausea and exhaustion, it's easy to feel "not pregnant" (except for the fact my clothes are all tight!).

I'm having the NT scan in two weeks, along with the blood screening. I'm hoping they will be able to tell the baby's sex then, but I know it's often difficult at this point.

[TLee4]

Delurking...

Evelyn, my boys are 14 mos apart. (Joey turned 2 last week). I LOVED having two under two (as unexpected as it was). :) And I like it more and more as they get a bit older and can interact more.

Hang it there..it will be great fun!

Terri

[Kerri]

Congrats Sweetpea!

Also, just wanted to say for Jen that I hear you. I was miserable for a LONG time with this pregnancy, but in the last 4-6 weeks the baby must have haved moved and suddenly I felt SO MUCH better.

I also want to make an annoucement...Baby Andrew arrived Tuesday, June 10 at 11:23am! He was 20.5 inches and um, 10 pounds, 4 ounces.

http://i117.photobucket.com/albums/o79/wirrek/June2008/2008_06100017.jpg

At my Monday appointment, I was 3 cm dialated, but we went ahead and scheduled the induction for Thursday...oh, yeah, today. Of course I woke up tuesday morning at 4:15 with regular contractions. We got to the hosptial about 7:30, had the epidural by 9:30, and had the baby two hours after that. I think we were all very surprised by how big he was, but I am sure glad I didn't know it in advance. I can't believe how easy it was. I did tear, but only a class 2 (I had a class 3 last time). My biggest issue, and unfortuately, it has been a HUGE problem, is that due to some low blood pressure, I wasn't pushing all that well at first and I must have strained my neck. I feel like I have severe whip lash!! But that is my only complaint. Baby Andrew has been pretty predictable so far. Today, mostly sleeping or crying when he is hungry. I think he is ready for my milk to come in. My mom should be here any minute with DS1, so that should be interesting to add to the mix. I guess I had better go prepare. Honeygirl - you are next!!

[Bawstinn]

CONGRATULATIONS Kerri!!!!!!!!!!!

[TLee4]

Congrats Kerri! Beautiful BIG guy there! :)

Terri

[Pony]

Congratulations Kerri!!!!!

[Couperine]

Congratulations Kerri and welcome Andrew!!

[Jen]

Congratulations Kerri - Andrew is beautiful! And wow on both the quick delivery and his size - my goodness!! :eek:

[honeygirl1971]

Kerri, Hurray!! What a beautiful little boy you have!! It sounds like such a good experience (aside from the "whiplash," ouch!!) and KUDOS to you for the speedy delivery of such a big boy!! I can't remember if you knew you were having a boy or not, but I'll be really looking forward to sharing war stories with you since we'll really be in the same boat with two little boys! :)

I guess I am next, yikes! One of the docs in the practice I am going to is really pushing hard for an induction, but not for medical reasons so I am resisting so far. Today I was 3 cm dilated and even more effaced (it was 75% effaced last time, he didn't tell me today and I forgot to ask) and fluid levels are dropping slightly (but still well within normal range for 39 weeks), so I am going to get checked out on Sunday and MAYBE have an induction if there is a good reason to do so. I have an appt Mon if we don't have the baby before then with Dr Induction who will not be pleased at all to see me (he is not the one on call Sunday) if I am still pregnant, but oh well!

Pony, glad you took my info as it was intended--kindly, and to be totally disregarded if you don't agree. :) I think genetic counseling is great and if your insurance covers it and you do decide to have it, I think you will most likely agree, but I am also sort of a science junkie! ;)

[Pony]

Thinking of you honeygirl!!!!

[SooCookie]

Congratulations, Kerri! How exciting, 2 boys! :)

[bekki]

First off, congrats Kerri!! How exciting for the new addition. I hope you're recovering well and enjoying your expanded family.

And Evelyn, welcome to the group!

Well, I had an interesting last few days. Last week, my AFP test came back elevated (meaning they were worried about spina bifida) and the perinatologist asked me to come in a week early for my "18 week" ultrasound so they could check for spine and brain structure. I was pretty nervous, not upset, but certainly concerned.

Luckily I had nothing to worry about. At my appointment yesterday afternoon, they said that my numbers were elevated for a single pregnancy, but NOT for twins. Which begs the question, why were they anxious to have me come in? No matter.

We had the big extended scan. I was on that table for 2 hours!! Both babies look great and were swimming around like crazy. They kept crossing in front of each other, so sometimes it was hard to tell who was who. The little brats ;) The big news is I'm officially on Team Purple! We have one of each. Baby A is a bit bigger and a boy, and Baby B is a girl. I really didn't care, genderwise, but I think this is the best for our family. We're very excited!

[lbd]

Congrats Kerri! Glad to hear it went so well. Did you have any idea Andrew would be so big?

We're hanging in there. I don't think I've posted since I failed by 3 hr GT test. If possible, I failed by an even closer margin than I did with DS. Oh well. So I met with the educator and nutritionist and started testing blood sugar 4x/day. Then Monday I saw my doctor who said my first week's numbers were good enough I could cut back to testing 2x/day. Yay! I don't mind the actual testing so much as the constant tracking of time and whether it's okay to have a glass of lemonade. So we'll see how it goes. This doctor doesn't have a policy of inducing early due to GD which pleases me. I might be singing a different tune come October but we'll cross that bridge when we come to it.

Does anyone know whether maternity swimsuits go on sale later in the summer? I have a one piece I can wear for at least a while longer (I don't really like it so don't care if it gets stretched out) but it won't last through the whole summer. I'll probably get an Old Navy tankini but am wondering if waiting a bit could save me some cash since I don't need it immediately.

[mabvt]

Congrats to the new mommies and welcome baby boys--a bit of a trend here, eh?

L-I feel your pain regarding bathing suits. I have done a lot of looking and have only found over priced ugly suits! I ended up getting a used one from a girlfriend that she got from target. Other places I haven't tried yet (but will let you know if I find anything) are kmart and walmart.

Bekki- Congrats on your ultrasound! What fun. I can't imagine looking in there and seeing two little boogers!

Me-- I woke up this morning with a sore throat and ear. I am paranoid about infections and pregnancy...so, to call the doc or not to call? Any advice?

Melissa

[willybean]

mabvt--I woke up with the same thing as you and my doctor recommended getting checked out. So, you might want to at least call your dr to see what he/she receommends. will put you at ease too, especially if you are paranoid about infections and pregnancy!

[Robyn1007]

No, I'm not pregnant. ;):p

But, I just saw on the Ann Taylor Loft website that they are offering 25% off their maternity clothes with free returns. Use code JUNEMOM.

[greta]

Delurking...I'm so sorry I haven't posted really since having #3. Congratulations to all I've missed congratulating!

Melissa,
I had a sore throat/ear for almost the entire second half of my pregnancy. SO wierd. It got much worse at night. It was pretty bad. As soon as I had Sami, it stopped.
Oh, and you asked a while back whether we've had our boys' hearts checked. No, we haven't. They don't have murmurs, and for our family, that is the sure sign. Although, we really should have a baseline echo done on all of them...Some day.

back to lurkdom
Greta

[mabvt]

Thanks for the advice re: calling the doc. I did call this afternoon (after sleeping for two hours! :eek:) They told me to try taking a Claritin and to call back tomorrow afternoon. So that is why I will do.

Greta-We met with a genetic counselor about a month ago. It was very interesting/impressive- I SO don't have a scientific brain! They are confident that baby will be okay upon birth bc in DH's family HCM usually develops later. Apparently there is an expensive genetic test that helps determine whether or not someone will develop it in their life with about 70 % accuracy.

[Pony]

Bekki, I would have been nervous, so glad everything worked out. I can't imagine being on the table for 2 hours.

lbd, I'm glad you are able to decrease the amount of testing. I don't know anything about bathing suits at this point. Good luck!

Robyn, thanks for the helpful lurking :). I still haven't bought anything for this pg except a bella band. Luckily, I wear scrubs at work, so I haven't had to do anything about clothes yet. If I wore normal clothes daily, I would definitely be uncomfortable by the end of the day. Or should I say, after each meal!

mabvt, I hope the sore throat/earache clears up. I would have called the doctor as well. :)

So, I patiently waited for my appt. today and the little nugget is still holding on! I am just shocked. I had convinced myself something was wrong on Friday and Saturday. Both, my husband and I were nervous. I just wanted to cut to the chase and hear the heartbeat. My husband deals w/ nervousness by talking and asking the doctor about his new glasses :p. I was almost in tears waiting and told them to cut the small talk, b/c i'm freaking out over here, hahahahaa.. I feel bad, b/c the doc is so nice and so chatty and I was a bit rude. oops. He used the doppler and found the heartbeat right away...very healthy heartbeat. All of a sudden, I had uncontrollable laughter and tears and the noise was getting louder and louder b/c of my laughs. I could not stop laughing. I always laugh at odd moments. :rolleyes: He pulled in the portable u/s machine and did one on my belly. That baby was all over the place, moving all around. yay!!! My next appt. is on July 7 and will be very long. I'm meeting w/ the genetic counselor and 2 doctors.

Michelle

[tholbrook]

bekki, congrats on the boy and girl! And I'm glad that everything turned out okay for you!

Pony - How exciting (and reassuring) to see/hear your baby again! The first trimester seemed to just drag by for me too - it felt like so long between doctor's appointments!

Congratulations, Kerri! And I'm echoing others when I say... 10+ pounds: wow!

I'm closing in on 31 weeks now. I'm a little freaked out now that I'm counting down single-digit weeks (9..8..7....). We did tours of 2 hospitals this last week, and it was our unfortunate timing to be touring a room while there was a woman in labor - screaming like a banshee. Not that there's anything wrong with that, but I thought I'd have to pick DH up off the floor. He turned white as a sheet! :o So he's gone from excited to highly anxious about my health/pain, the baby, and whether or not he's going to be able to handle being there. IMO he'll be fine.

I had a bit of a run-in with my doctor at my appointment yesterday. I told her that we had toured 2 hospitals (both of them where she has privileges) and had picked the one with the birthing center within the hospital. She more or less had a fit, and said that she didn't like that place, because there was nowhere for her to sit (!!!) for the delivery (it's a queen sized bed as opposed to a raised hospital bed). She also tried a few other scare tactics that I won't go into here, but it really upset me (although I wasn't buying into it) for the whole day. The dr eventually said that yes, I could deliver where I wanted, but she preferred the other hospital.

I ended up talking to my friend (the office manager there) who had warned me my doctor could be very abrupt... yeah, I guess she is! I'm supposed to be rotating through the different doctors at the office anyway, so she set me up with other doctors for the next 2 visits. Turns out I have more of a chance seeing another doctor for the delivery (presuming I deliver the 23rd, +/- 3 days) than my own doctor. So I'm not really worried about it at this point.

It's been kind of a rough week, but other than that, I feel fine. The baby kicks and rolls a lot, and I still find watching my belly move totally bizarre. We did the 3D/4D ultrasound a couple weeks ago, which was really cool... even if she was camera-shy, and kept her hands in front of her face the whole time!

[Pony]

honeygirl--I saw you on the ice cream thread :D---did you have your baby??????

tholbrook, what a pain! I work with doctor's everyday and I'm amazed by some of them. Of course, there are some that are just amazing and are there for the patient. But a handful a more worried about themselves and what is most convenient for them. I always feel bad for the patients who have these certain doctors. I'm glad you were able to stand your ground and get what you want and deserve! I can't wait to feel the baby kicking and rolling :)

Not much going on here, still on a high from my last appt. :) My weekend is filled w/ volunteer work stuff. My friend and I have to do a presentation in front of 200 people :eek: on Sunday. It is about cooking, so that is fun, but did I mention I hate public speaking!!!!!!

Hope everyone is well,
Michelle

[honeygirl1971]

honeygirl--I saw you on the ice cream thread :D---did you have your baby??????




NOPE! NOT YET! Still preggo! :o
He's only a couple of days overdue, which still seems funny since my docs were worried about PTL! I have an appt Monday and I'm guessing we'll set a deadline for induction if nothing has happened by then. In the meantime I'm collecting home remedies for encouraging labor to begin--the latest ones I've been told are deep foot massage and eggplant! Anyone else heard any? My sis says Indian food, and that's on the menu for tomorrow... ;)

I hope everyone else is doing well!

[Pony]

honeygirl, yay, so close. I remember when we were visiting my SIL in Hawaii she was almost 2 weeks overdue w/ her 2nd child. She was hiking a volcano with us ;). Got any of those around?!

[Kerri]

Honeygirl - I seem to remember a trip to IKEA helped with your first pregnancy :p. If nothing else, scheduling the induction worked for me!

[honeygirl1971]

Honeygirl - I seem to remember a trip to IKEA helped with your first pregnancy :p. If nothing else, scheduling the induction worked for me!


LOL My husband already suggested it! :p It's about an hour from where we live, about 1 1/2 hours from the hospital, so I'm a little worried that it's too far, but if things gets desperate we could always try it! :D

[helios7]

Help - I need some positive karma!

I've been MIA lately, internet problems two weeks ago kept me offline, and last week was just crazy. And I'm having some health issues that have me really freaked out. The baby is fine, but I have to have a inexplicably enlarged lymph node removed on Wednesday, and I'm a little freaked out. I'm 17 weeks pregnant, and the surgery will be done with local anesthesia. I know that's the right choice for the baby - but that too freaks me out as lying awake while this procedure is done sounds incredibly scary. I've had this procedure done before, but last time I was sedated. I don't think I have what I had last time as I'm not symptomatic as I was last time, but I'm just hoping that it will be normal.

So, that's bad enough, but I'm also really frustrated with my doctor's office. How late is too late to change? Anyone know? I've been frustrated for some time. It's a large hospital practice, which was fine when I was only going for annuals. Now I'm going more regularly - I'm just feeling frustrated. I feel as though unless I ask a question, I won't get any answers. Our visits are short, basic and there's little information offered. I know it's the information age and I do read books/receive newsletters but I would just like to be asked "how's everything going? Do you have any questions?" once. The symptoms I've brought up as a question have all been responded to as "that's normal". I feel as though there's been zero attention to the fact that I'm more anxious given my previous loss (although that may just be normal for ob practices). And then with this surgery situation, I stopped in because I just wanted to hear from a nurse (because I KNOW I won't be able to get in touch with my doctor) what the best options are. And she couldn't tell me if she talked to the doctor (on Friday.... not three weeks ago!) and kept bringing up that local anesthetics are fine at the dentist. I kept telling her - we're not talking dental surgery here! We're talking the removal of a node from the groin area.... I feel I have every right to be concerned about the safety of my baby.

So... ARRRGGGHHHGHHHHHHHHHH! Life is kind of stressful right now. This was my long awaited week off, and I'll spend it recovering from surgery. Last week's doctor's visit went well (despite the aggravations I've described above) so hopefully the baby will sail through this unscathed. It's mom - the jury is still out. :rolleyes:

[Pony]

(((helios7)))
Wow, I'm so sorry you are dealing with the added stress. All I could think about when reading your post was in the very beginning you said "the baby is fine". I just kept repeating that for you ;). Believe me, I know how worked up we can get and uncertain we can get. I don't think it is fair to have a doctor who is unavailable. I know exactly what you mean about the zero attention factor from the doctors. I switched practices after my 2nd m/c because the staff was horrible, but I loved my doctor. But it was not worth it...one time during the 2nd m/c, my doctor had me go get a u/s to see what was going on and a tech made me insert the vaginal u/s wand myself while I was m/c'ing. It was so traumatic and soooooo emotional and still to this day my heart races when I think about her. Sorry, off on a tangent there.....but, my new doctor is very positive, very uplifting, very sweet, and very sensitive, the staff is great, but I have to ask my own questions and I do get the "it's normal" thing a lot. I get caught up in my emotions, nervousness and excitement and forget to ask my questions. I did write them down this last time, but I know I forgot some. I had to see a doctor in the same practice for my first u/s and he was soooooo different from my doctor. Very flat, not encouraging, very dry, just not what I wanted. Luckily, I don't have to deal with him typically. I don't see why you couldn't change practices now if you are not comfortable w/ them. I have no idea how that all works, but I think it is very important to have confidence and feel secure w/ your doctor and their staff. I'm sorry you are going through this right now--when exactly is your surgery?

Michelle

[lbd]

Heather - definitely not too late to change doctors. I saw my new OB at around 17 weeks (the move) but had a friend who changed at 7 months. I would do it soon just so you have time to adjust to the new practice but if they aren't treating you right (and it doesn't sound like I'd be happy with their attitude either. I was really happy with my old OB with my first pregnancy and the early part of this one but the last two appts with them, which were after they knew I was moving, were very short and abrupt. It totally felt like since I wasn't going to be there anymore, they didn't care. So do what makes you comfortable.

It may be a little late to chime in on Tholbrook's doctor situation but why does that doctor maintain privileges if she dislikes the other hospital so well? Her attitude also strikes me as totally unnecessary.

Two days since Honeygirl has posted -- maybe the Indian food worked??

[helios7]

Thanks Pony and Lorien...

I've been busily researching. I'm actually considering a midwifery practice - if they have room. I left a message, and just tried again but the person I would need to speak to won't be available until the morning. The advantages to this particular practice would be delivering in a hospital my friend really enjoyed during her birth experience this past fall. Plus a friend who is a midwife said it's where she will go when it's her turn.... so fingers crossed!

Pony - I appreciate you sharing a bit about your experience. I was putting up with the lack of info unless I asked, and the "its normals" but I think this surgery and the lack of compassion for my anxiety.... frankly the lack of their involvement altogether was just the last straw. I think it's ridiculous that I'm having surgery while pregnant with zero input from my OB. So, time to look for greener pastures I think. :mad::mad:

[Pony]

helios7--I saw your post on the other stuff board. I just can't believe that OB nurse! That would drive me absolutely crazy. I so hope you get in to the midwife practice you found.

I am a dietitian, so used to the healthcare field. I recently started to really consider going back to nursing school after the m/c'es and work in OB. I thought there was such a lack of compassion in the OB field. Still considering it, but now that I'm pregnant, not sure how going to school would fit into my lifestyle :)

[tholbrook]

It may be a little late to chime in on Tholbrook's doctor situation but why does that doctor maintain privileges if she dislikes the other hospital so well? Her attitude also strikes me as totally unnecessary. I can answer that: The hospital has a PICU (perinatal intensive care unit), so they send their really high-risk patients there. It's the only hospital in the area with a Level 3 NICU. The same hospital also has the only birth center within a hospital in Ohio - which is the reason I'm choosing it. It basically comes down to (I think) that the birth center does things differently than what my doctor is accustomed to, and she's not happy with that. And I agree... her reaction was a bit extreme and uncalled for.

[helios7]

Double posting from my other thread on the Other Stuff board...

Well I (we) survived.

It wasn't fun, but I'm doing okay. No pain meds, fair amount of discomfort but so far I think I'll survive with a few quiet days to rest. I was definitely loopy and somewhat sedated during the procedure but definitely not out as I was last time. I was aware (somewhat) of what was going on although nothing hurt due to the local. It was very emotional though - I think I freaked out the doctors as I was quite teary at the beginning. I think it was a combo of stress, hormones and memories of the D&C I just had in November.

The good news is they called OB and did a quick ultrasound after the procedure so I got to see my little one bouncing around, scratching his/her head and generally looking good. It took 2 extra HOURS for OB to come, but it was so worth it. We have a picture printout of him/her scratching his/her head (I was hoping for a gender peek :o but either the doctor didn't see anything distinctive or just didn't feel like sharing... oh well). So that was reassuring.:D

Finally, the surgeon said it wasn't a "normal" lymph node so it does seem that the removal was worth it. I'd been panicked that I would have gone through this for nothing! So, it looks similar to the first one removed 6 years ago which likely means more meds once the pathology confirms his suspicion. Sigh... this disease has a hold on me, this will be the third time it's treated - when will it go away! :(

Thanks again for everyone's support. :)

[bekki]

helios7: I'm so glad to hear that everythign went well and that you're recovering smoothly. I can only imagine how scary and frustrating the whole ordeal must have been. Congrats to you for making it through. :p

[Pony]

Yay helios7!!!

[helios7]

Well I'm back again. I have too much time on my hands! :)

So... I'm 18 weeks today (more or less). According to my LMP I'm 18 weeks, but on ultrasounds the baby has been showing 3 days later so I'll know I'm officially 18 weeks on Monday. This week I had quite a lot of what I can only assume was stretching pain (yes, on top of the surgery). At times it was quite uncomfortable (last night I gave up and went to bed because it was uncomfortable). Everything else is fine, so I continue to reassure myself that all's well..... has anyone else experienced similar pain especially with a first pregnancy around this time 17-18 weeks? From looking in the book, it might be round ligament pain? Maybe? I'm also wondering if some of it was stress related from the surgery.

So I thought I'd ask, and see if anyone can relate. :D

[fancyn]

Coming out of lurkdom...Hi all! I haven't posted on the boards in a long time so please forgive me. :) I just have to tell someone and you guys have always been so great. If my math is correct (pretty sure) I'm six weeks along. I've told immediate family and a few close friends but I'm awful with keeping my own secrets! On DH and I's 5th anniversary I took the test and we found out (which was also the day before Father's day) there's going to be a number 2. I'm just so estatic because I'm so ready for another. If I'm calculating correctly, DS will just turn 4 at the time of the birth. I don't have first appt. until next Thursday so I don't want to jump the gun, BUT WE'RE HAVING A BABY!! :D So weird, I knew this time before I was even late.

helios7 - I'm glad the surgery went well! And yes, i remember the same pain around that time on the first go. My guess is it's a combo of both.

Pony - I've been meaning to tell you CONGRATS!!!

honeygirl1971 - I remember wanting DS out so bad, I would make DH drive around and we would repeatedly go over speed bumps and pot holes. :o I'm not sure if that's doctor recommended though. What about nipple stimulation?

[helios7]

Congrats Fancyn! Glad to have you along! Would that be a estimated February due date?

:D:D:D:D:D:D I hope the first appointment goes well.

And thanks for remembering something similar from your first pregnancy.... I'm really not showing overly much. If you know me, you know I'm pregnant. If not.... well, it can be questionable depending on what I'm wearing. So hopefully this my baby belly beginning to happen! :cool:

[Pony]

fancyn--CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!! My friend just called me on Wednesday night and she is just about where you are!!! Very exciting. Good luck at your appt.

helios7--Obviously, I've never been at 17-18 weeks ;), but I remember my friend feeling the same way you are when she was around were you are. I know you are not doing much b/c of the surgery, but have you been lifting things or have been more active lately? I think you can feel the stretching/pain if you are more active. Not sure if you have mentioned this yet, but have you felt the baby move yet? :)

Not much going on here. I reminded my husband today that I was 12 weeks today! He said, "what is the baby this week?" We love going on to babycenter.com and reading the description of the baby. This week we have a lime :p. Last week it was a fig! I love those descriptions. :p I've been feeling fine and not as anxious since my last appt. I go a week from Monday for the genetic counseling, 1st trimester scan exam. Looking forward to seeing the baby.

Michelle

[valchemist]

de-lurking to say congrats to nancy! have missed your posts.

[fancyn]

Thanks ladies for the warm welcome! If I guesstimated right, EDD would be around 2/19/08. I guess I'll know on Thursday. Unfortunately the same fears have surfaced as the last time - is everything okay, what if this, what if that? I'm not sure why I'm paranoid, hopefully it doesn't last the entire 40 weeks. I noticed the faintest trace of old blood this morning (TMI?) and of course it sent me into a panic.

Don't you just love the babycenter descriptions? i thought I was having a baby, not a fruit orchard? :p But I secretly love reading all the week by week stuff, it helps put everything in perspective of what's going on behind the scenes.

TBH, I don't remember when I first started showing. Is it true with the 2nd, 3rd, etc child you have, you start to show earlier? Would anyone care to share when that is? I'm afraid I won't have any maternity clothes for the season if it is indeed earlier!

[valchemist]

Thanks ladies for the warm welcome! If I guesstimated right, EDD would be around 2/19/08. I guess I'll know on Thursday. Unfortunately the same fears have surfaced as the last time - is everything okay, what if this, what if that? I'm not sure why I'm paranoid, hopefully it doesn't last the entire 40 weeks. I noticed the faintest trace of old blood this morning (TMI?) and of course it sent me into a panic.

Don't you just love the babycenter descriptions? i thought I was having a baby, not a fruit orchard? :p But I secretly love reading all the week by week stuff, it helps put everything in perspective of what's going on behind the scenes.

TBH, I don't remember when I first started showing. Is it true with the 2nd, 3rd, etc child you have, you start to show earlier? Would anyone care to share when that is? I'm afraid I won't have any maternity clothes for the season if it is indeed earlier!

well, you mean 2/19/09. but we knew that. anyway, that is Julia's bday! she'll be 7 then. ack.

I had the blood trace too at that time and was freaked out. all was fine.

yes, for sure you show way earlier. I was showing by 12 weeks with the second baby and by 8 or 9 weeks the third time around. I doubt you will need any SUMMER maternity clothes. so you are safe. you'll be able to get by with low rise or stretchy pants and roomy shirts, I would think.

[Jen]

Lots of activity here! I've been off for a bit - we took a quick mini-vacation to the Okanagan and had a wonderful time. It was so nice to have some special time with DD before the new baby arrives.

helios7 - so glad the surgery went well...I can imagine how scary it was. I totally agree that it's important to feel your OB is listening to you! I had a hard time with mine earlier in this pregnancy, but then I went in one week with a whole list of questions and expected to have to demand time to get them answered, and she was really amazing. I was reminded why I liked her so much last time! I think for me the problem was that I was booking the last appts of the day, which was good for me/work, but meant they were often behind and needed to get people out of the office. I worked around it and things are better if I go mid-day. Also, I think the round ligament pain is exactly what you're probably experiencing - I remember it starting around there with my first, but it was definitely earlier (like ~6 weeks!) with this one.

fancyn - welcome and congratulations! Mine will also be around 4 years apart (well, plus a bit - DD just turned 4 in mid-June and I'm due in early August).

As for me, baby is doing well and I'm finding I have a bit more energy. It helps that I am off now until after the holidays (July 1 in Canada - so I'm back next Wednesday), then only working for 2 more weeks until my maternity leave starts. Last time I worked up until 39 weeks, but I just have a suspicion this baby might come a bit early and 37 weeks was the limit of my comfort! Plus, with the longer commute and the summer pregnancy, I figured I'd rather be home with DD and DH (DH is a teacher so he's just finishing school now). The pain I've been experiencing is getting worse by the day so I'm really ready for this to be over. I say that, but we're really NOT "ready"!! The nursery is still a disaster although baby will be in our room for a bit anyway, so it's not a huge deal. I'm really hoping I get at least a few days after I'm off to get things more organized.