That is my view looking South. Craziness!
We made it to 36 weeks! Woohoo! I can't EVEN believe I'm TWELVE days away from being a mommy! Life is GOOD!
6 years ago
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Does this Bump Make my Boobs Look Small?
That is my view looking South. Craziness!
We made it to 36 weeks! Woohoo! I can't EVEN believe I'm TWELVE days away from being a mommy! Life is GOOD!
Friday, May 14, 2010
Mother's Day and a 35.5 Week Update
Hello neglected blog. Such a shame that I'm home and not updating this. I'll try to do better in the limited time we have left. Once they are born, I'll be moving to a blog site that is more photo-posting friendly.
So let's talk about Mother's Day. Man, how I have HATED Mother's Day for years and years. I have woken up in tears. I have snapped at strangers for saying "Happy Mother's Day" to me. I have been so jealous of everyone out and about with their children while I sat there with empty arms and a broken heart. Last year I had just miscarried my angel that was due in June 2009, and I was in the midst of my first IVF cycle. What a difference a year makes, and my amazing husband made the day SO special for me.
He woke me up with breakfast in bed (we’ll forgive him for waking me up) – banana pancakes with fresh strawberries and blackberries and a cup of juice. He had a beautiful vase of flowers for me, a card, and three charms for my Pandora bracelet – two carriages and a pink glass bead.
My heart was so full of love, for even though they aren’t here yet, I am very much aware of two babies growing inside of me. And I am blessed for having such an amazing husband!
Speaking of babies, my little girls are moving right along. At my 35 week Perinatology appointment – my last, might I add – the girls are both weighing in at 5lbs 15 oz. That’s a whole lot of baby in my belly. They are right on schedule and doing very well. Mommy is measuring 10 weeks ahead (yes, that would be 45+ weeks pregnant for your singleton ladies) and feeling the effects of that on a daily basis.
Carrying twins HURTS. My back, sides and ribs are killing me from them trying to find space to grow. I have constant pressure and feel like they could pop out any minute now, even though I know that isn't the truth. In addition, the swelling in my hands, knees and feet is really bad – so bad that I have pregnancy induced carpal tunnel and can barely grip a pen long enough to sign my name. Blood pressure is good, the bladder infection we found last week is cleared up, and my weight gain is at 39 pounds. I’d love to keep it at 39 – something about 40 freaks me out.
We’ve been talking delivery lately. Last week, both girls were head down and we were looking at inducing a vaginal delivery on June 1. My OB is not on call on Memorial Day Weekend and I’m REALLY uncomfortable going through the weekend without having them born - risking having a stranger deliver my girls. However, this week, Baby B turned transverse (side-to-side), and my OB will likely want to do a C-Section if she doesn’t turn her little head back down. In that case, the girls will be born on May 28. Of course these dates are given that I don’t go in to labor on my own in the next two weeks.
Stay tuned…the good stuff is coming!
So let's talk about Mother's Day. Man, how I have HATED Mother's Day for years and years. I have woken up in tears. I have snapped at strangers for saying "Happy Mother's Day" to me. I have been so jealous of everyone out and about with their children while I sat there with empty arms and a broken heart. Last year I had just miscarried my angel that was due in June 2009, and I was in the midst of my first IVF cycle. What a difference a year makes, and my amazing husband made the day SO special for me.
He woke me up with breakfast in bed (we’ll forgive him for waking me up) – banana pancakes with fresh strawberries and blackberries and a cup of juice. He had a beautiful vase of flowers for me, a card, and three charms for my Pandora bracelet – two carriages and a pink glass bead.
My heart was so full of love, for even though they aren’t here yet, I am very much aware of two babies growing inside of me. And I am blessed for having such an amazing husband!
Speaking of babies, my little girls are moving right along. At my 35 week Perinatology appointment – my last, might I add – the girls are both weighing in at 5lbs 15 oz. That’s a whole lot of baby in my belly. They are right on schedule and doing very well. Mommy is measuring 10 weeks ahead (yes, that would be 45+ weeks pregnant for your singleton ladies) and feeling the effects of that on a daily basis.
Carrying twins HURTS. My back, sides and ribs are killing me from them trying to find space to grow. I have constant pressure and feel like they could pop out any minute now, even though I know that isn't the truth. In addition, the swelling in my hands, knees and feet is really bad – so bad that I have pregnancy induced carpal tunnel and can barely grip a pen long enough to sign my name. Blood pressure is good, the bladder infection we found last week is cleared up, and my weight gain is at 39 pounds. I’d love to keep it at 39 – something about 40 freaks me out.
We’ve been talking delivery lately. Last week, both girls were head down and we were looking at inducing a vaginal delivery on June 1. My OB is not on call on Memorial Day Weekend and I’m REALLY uncomfortable going through the weekend without having them born - risking having a stranger deliver my girls. However, this week, Baby B turned transverse (side-to-side), and my OB will likely want to do a C-Section if she doesn’t turn her little head back down. In that case, the girls will be born on May 28. Of course these dates are given that I don’t go in to labor on my own in the next two weeks.
Stay tuned…the good stuff is coming!
Monday, May 3, 2010
34 Weeks: Canteloupe
I'm feeling every bit of having two canteloupes in my belly!
It's amazing how big the girls are getting. I'm anxious for their measurements next week, but the estimate below should be fairly close. They are very active and I'm absolutely mesmorized by watching them move. It makes me a little nauseated now and then when they both get going - especially if they get near my belly button (which is still an innie, thank you very much!).
I never thought I would make it this far. It's truly a miracle in itself. 34 weeks. Wow. God is truly watching over us.
Your baby now measures about 20.25 inches (45cm) in total length and weighs around 5.5 lbs (2550g). Crown to rump measurement is about 13.2 inches (33cm).
He continues to grow and fatten up, especially in the shoulder area, and kicks regularly.
The fine lanugo hair that covered your baby is shedding, though some may still be present when your baby is born.
Your baby's eyes are blue, though this may change soon after birth or much later after birth.
Your baby's fingernails are growing. They already reach the tips of his fingers and they may even look quite long and pointy by the time he is born. Your baby may even have some scratch marks from scratching his face with his fingernails.
Your baby is probably feeling quite cramped right now and his movements are restricted by his growing size.
Picture courtesy of thebump.com; text courtesy of fertilityfriend.com
It's amazing how big the girls are getting. I'm anxious for their measurements next week, but the estimate below should be fairly close. They are very active and I'm absolutely mesmorized by watching them move. It makes me a little nauseated now and then when they both get going - especially if they get near my belly button (which is still an innie, thank you very much!).
I never thought I would make it this far. It's truly a miracle in itself. 34 weeks. Wow. God is truly watching over us.
Your baby now measures about 20.25 inches (45cm) in total length and weighs around 5.5 lbs (2550g). Crown to rump measurement is about 13.2 inches (33cm).
He continues to grow and fatten up, especially in the shoulder area, and kicks regularly.
The fine lanugo hair that covered your baby is shedding, though some may still be present when your baby is born.
Your baby's eyes are blue, though this may change soon after birth or much later after birth.
Your baby's fingernails are growing. They already reach the tips of his fingers and they may even look quite long and pointy by the time he is born. Your baby may even have some scratch marks from scratching his face with his fingernails.
Your baby is probably feeling quite cramped right now and his movements are restricted by his growing size.
Picture courtesy of thebump.com; text courtesy of fertilityfriend.com
Thursday, April 29, 2010
33 Week Appointment
Our OB and hospital appointments were good yesterday. The girls passed their second NST, despite that the poor nurse had a hard time keeping Baby A on the monitor. She was getting REALLY frustrated. I only had a few minor contractions while I was there. Wish they could do my NST in the evening when the contractions are crazy.
There are trace amounts of protein in my urine and my feet are severely swollen (beyond normal swelling) so I'm being monitored for pre-eclampsia. So far my blood pressure has been perfect so we're hoping it stays that way.
I'm measuring 40 weeks. That explains why I feel as miserable as I feel. The girls are still head down. I'll be induced on June 1 (38w2d) if I haven't gone in to labor prior, but she expects I will deliver between 36 and 37 weeks. That's like 2.5 - 3.5 weeks away. Ack! I'm not ready! But at the same time, I am SOOOOOOO ready.
There are trace amounts of protein in my urine and my feet are severely swollen (beyond normal swelling) so I'm being monitored for pre-eclampsia. So far my blood pressure has been perfect so we're hoping it stays that way.
I'm measuring 40 weeks. That explains why I feel as miserable as I feel. The girls are still head down. I'll be induced on June 1 (38w2d) if I haven't gone in to labor prior, but she expects I will deliver between 36 and 37 weeks. That's like 2.5 - 3.5 weeks away. Ack! I'm not ready! But at the same time, I am SOOOOOOO ready.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
32 weeks 4 days
It's been a good week. I think coming out of work has helped a ton. My contractions are WAY down. I went from 4-5 an hour to about 10-20 a day, depending on my activity level.
Had a great day yesterday with my mom. We went to Babies R Us to do some exchanges, then had a fabulous lunch. Then off to the hospital to see my friend's newborn and do my first NST. Both babies passed with flying colors. Did a swab to see if I'm leaking fluid, and so far, so good. Then we went down to see my OB for a quick ultrasound. Both girls are still head down - woohoo! From there we went to Pottery Barn Kids to pick up some shelves for the girls' room. I started to slide down hill quick from here so we headed home.
Today I got out and had lunch with my coworkers - so good to see everyone! I miss work...I really do!
Our maternity photos came in and we couldn't be more thrilled with them. I'm not going to post them here for the world to see, but if you send me an email or message me through FF, I'll send you the link. :)
So all in all, things are going very well. I'm feeling so blessed and so thankful for every minute of this, and I can't WAIT for Cailyn and Reegan to be in my arms!
Had a great day yesterday with my mom. We went to Babies R Us to do some exchanges, then had a fabulous lunch. Then off to the hospital to see my friend's newborn and do my first NST. Both babies passed with flying colors. Did a swab to see if I'm leaking fluid, and so far, so good. Then we went down to see my OB for a quick ultrasound. Both girls are still head down - woohoo! From there we went to Pottery Barn Kids to pick up some shelves for the girls' room. I started to slide down hill quick from here so we headed home.
Today I got out and had lunch with my coworkers - so good to see everyone! I miss work...I really do!
Our maternity photos came in and we couldn't be more thrilled with them. I'm not going to post them here for the world to see, but if you send me an email or message me through FF, I'll send you the link. :)
So all in all, things are going very well. I'm feeling so blessed and so thankful for every minute of this, and I can't WAIT for Cailyn and Reegan to be in my arms!
Thursday, April 15, 2010
31+3 Appointment Update!
The girls are doing GREAT! Baby A is 4lbs 2oz and Baby B is 3lbs 12oz. BOTH girls are head down, so as of today I'm getting my vaginal delivery!!!!! Fluid was great, my cervix of steel was just over 4 cm (take THAT Braxton Hicks!), I'm measuring 38 weeks (and I feel EVERY bit of that!). The Peri said "we'll see you in 4 weeks if you're still pregnant". My OB is starting my NSTs next Wednesday so weekly visits, here we come! Great news from both doctors today!
We ordered our stroller today after test driving a few at a local boutique. We got a Baby Jogger City Mini Double in black. This thing folds up SO freaking small and you just grab these two straps and lift it (only 26 pounds) to fold it. It will fit perfect in my lil' Accord. And it fits through doorways and you can push it with one hand - so manueverable. LOVE it!
Moving right along! I'm so excited!
We ordered our stroller today after test driving a few at a local boutique. We got a Baby Jogger City Mini Double in black. This thing folds up SO freaking small and you just grab these two straps and lift it (only 26 pounds) to fold it. It will fit perfect in my lil' Accord. And it fits through doorways and you can push it with one hand - so manueverable. LOVE it!
Moving right along! I'm so excited!
Monday, April 12, 2010
31 Weeks - Maternity Leave!
It's so surreal to me to have made it this far - wow, 31 weeks!
Friday was my last day of work. It was very bittersweet - quite an emotional day. I'm bored already, but it looks like I left right in the nick of time. We ended up in Labor & Delivery that night with contractions 10 minutes apart. Still no change to my cervix, and the Fetal Fibernectin swab was negative again, so I "should be" good for two more weeks. I just don't trust that test.
I've been taking it easy since then. In fact, we missed our Baby Basics class on Saturday because my uterus would not calm down. Still won't, in fact. We rescheduled for their May class, but I doubt I'll be up for it at that time - I'll be like 35 weeks then. I ordered a couple videos so that should help. Like my mom said - they didn't do classes then and my brother and I somehow survived.
Tuesday night we have Session 1 of our childbirthing class and Wednesday we have a breast/bottle feeding class. We also see the Perinatologist and OB on Wednesday. I can't WAIT to see the girls again!!!
Without further ado, here is the weekly development update. I've switched sources - Fertility Friend is much more thorough. ;-)
Your baby's total length is 18.9 inches (42cm) and she is perfectly formed! She measures about 11.6 inches (29cm) from crown to rump. All she has to do is fill out more. Your baby weighs almost 4 pounds (1800g). If she were to be born now, she would still need to be incubated as she has insufficient fat stores to keep it warm.
Your baby can distinguish between light and dark. Your baby can hear the outside world quite well now, and can also hear the sounds of your heartbeat, your digestion and the blood rushing in the umbilical cord. The pitch of women's voices are in the range babies are most able to hear over all the internal background noise. Your baby is already familiar with your voice and will be able to recognize it after birth.
Friday was my last day of work. It was very bittersweet - quite an emotional day. I'm bored already, but it looks like I left right in the nick of time. We ended up in Labor & Delivery that night with contractions 10 minutes apart. Still no change to my cervix, and the Fetal Fibernectin swab was negative again, so I "should be" good for two more weeks. I just don't trust that test.
I've been taking it easy since then. In fact, we missed our Baby Basics class on Saturday because my uterus would not calm down. Still won't, in fact. We rescheduled for their May class, but I doubt I'll be up for it at that time - I'll be like 35 weeks then. I ordered a couple videos so that should help. Like my mom said - they didn't do classes then and my brother and I somehow survived.
Tuesday night we have Session 1 of our childbirthing class and Wednesday we have a breast/bottle feeding class. We also see the Perinatologist and OB on Wednesday. I can't WAIT to see the girls again!!!
Without further ado, here is the weekly development update. I've switched sources - Fertility Friend is much more thorough. ;-)
Your baby's total length is 18.9 inches (42cm) and she is perfectly formed! She measures about 11.6 inches (29cm) from crown to rump. All she has to do is fill out more. Your baby weighs almost 4 pounds (1800g). If she were to be born now, she would still need to be incubated as she has insufficient fat stores to keep it warm.
Your baby can distinguish between light and dark. Your baby can hear the outside world quite well now, and can also hear the sounds of your heartbeat, your digestion and the blood rushing in the umbilical cord. The pitch of women's voices are in the range babies are most able to hear over all the internal background noise. Your baby is already familiar with your voice and will be able to recognize it after birth.
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Almost 30 week update
I have been a horrible blogger! Let me catch up here.
I had four fabulous showers between 25 and 28 weeks! One thrown by my mother-in-law, one at work, and two thrown by special friends. We feel really blessed for the gifts our girls have received. They will undoubtedly be THE best dressed twins! We've been filling in on necessities as needed and trying to get everything ready.
We had new carpet installed last weekend, and OMG, it is LOVELY! We still have to put everything away though, and that is taking a while. We put the girls cribs together on Sunday and brought in their dressers. I stood in the doorway and sobbed. It's so surreal to me to have baby furniture in a room that has been an empty hole in my heart for so many years. We have nothing on the walls yet, and lots of accessorizing to do, but here is a sneak peak!
Saw my OB on Wednesday at 29w3d. The girls are doing well, and we are moving right along. Blood pressure is good and my weight is only up about 25 pounds. I am measuring at 36 weeks, but I'm apparently carrying small for twins - everyone has said that, and my OB agreed. I guess I'm getting lucky - it's the first time in my life that people have commented on how small I am! Here is the belly at 28 weeks - it's gotten a bit bigger since this.
Baby A is head down and Baby B is still breech, so my OB is recommending a c-section. I'm not thrilled about it, but I'd rather do that then labor to deliver Baby A and end up with a c-section anyway for Baby B. So it looks like the girls will be born sometime between May 24 and May 28...Geminis...how fitting!
For now I'm still working. I think my last day will be April 9 or April 16. I'm trying to hold out as long as I can, but the back pain really makes it hard. After that, I plan on spending a lot of time floating on a noodle in my mom's pool!
I see my Perinatologist in 2 weeks, then the following week I start NSTs weekly at the hospital followed by a quick ultrasound at my OB's office. I have a feeling time is about to start flying by. I can't believe I'm going to have these girls in my arms in just 7.5 weeks!
I had four fabulous showers between 25 and 28 weeks! One thrown by my mother-in-law, one at work, and two thrown by special friends. We feel really blessed for the gifts our girls have received. They will undoubtedly be THE best dressed twins! We've been filling in on necessities as needed and trying to get everything ready.
We had new carpet installed last weekend, and OMG, it is LOVELY! We still have to put everything away though, and that is taking a while. We put the girls cribs together on Sunday and brought in their dressers. I stood in the doorway and sobbed. It's so surreal to me to have baby furniture in a room that has been an empty hole in my heart for so many years. We have nothing on the walls yet, and lots of accessorizing to do, but here is a sneak peak!
Saw my OB on Wednesday at 29w3d. The girls are doing well, and we are moving right along. Blood pressure is good and my weight is only up about 25 pounds. I am measuring at 36 weeks, but I'm apparently carrying small for twins - everyone has said that, and my OB agreed. I guess I'm getting lucky - it's the first time in my life that people have commented on how small I am! Here is the belly at 28 weeks - it's gotten a bit bigger since this.
Baby A is head down and Baby B is still breech, so my OB is recommending a c-section. I'm not thrilled about it, but I'd rather do that then labor to deliver Baby A and end up with a c-section anyway for Baby B. So it looks like the girls will be born sometime between May 24 and May 28...Geminis...how fitting!
For now I'm still working. I think my last day will be April 9 or April 16. I'm trying to hold out as long as I can, but the back pain really makes it hard. After that, I plan on spending a lot of time floating on a noodle in my mom's pool!
I see my Perinatologist in 2 weeks, then the following week I start NSTs weekly at the hospital followed by a quick ultrasound at my OB's office. I have a feeling time is about to start flying by. I can't believe I'm going to have these girls in my arms in just 7.5 weeks!
Sunday, March 28, 2010
29 Weeks: Squash
Baby’s energy is surging, thanks to the formation of white fat deposits beneath the skin. (Have those kicks and jabs to the ribs tipped you off yet?) Baby is also settling into sleep and waking cycles, though -- as you’ve also probably noticed -- they don’t necessarily coincide with your own. Also this month, all five senses are finally functional, and the brain and nervous system are going through major developments.
Photo and text courtesy of thebump.com
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
28 Weeks: Eggplant...STILL!
A few days late, but better late than never...my poor blog is neglected. I need to sit down tonight with a nice update. Until then...our 28 week update from thebump.com:
Let your spouse put an ear to your belly -- he might be able to pick up baby's heartbeat (no stethoscope required). Inside the womb, the formation of tiny capillaries is giving baby a healthy pink glow. Baby's also soaking up your antibodies, getting the immune system ready for life outside the womb. Eyes are forming, and baby will soon perfect the blink -- perfect for batting those freshly grown lashes.
Text courtesy of thebump.com
Let your spouse put an ear to your belly -- he might be able to pick up baby's heartbeat (no stethoscope required). Inside the womb, the formation of tiny capillaries is giving baby a healthy pink glow. Baby's also soaking up your antibodies, getting the immune system ready for life outside the womb. Eyes are forming, and baby will soon perfect the blink -- perfect for batting those freshly grown lashes.
Text courtesy of thebump.com
Thursday, March 18, 2010
27w3d Peri and OB Appointment Update
My appointments yesterday were great - saw the Peri in the morning and the OB in the afternoon. The girls are in the 53rd and 57th percentile and weighing in at 2.7 and 2.8 pounds. Only a 3% difference in their measurements which is great. Baby A is head down and right on my cervix. She is on the left side. Baby B is vertex/breech on the right side. My cervix is still over 4.5cm. Unbelievable after the braxton hicks beating it's been taking!
Our next ultrasound with the Peri is in four weeks. I see my OB every two weeks still, and she will start NSTs and weekly visits at 32 weeks.
Moving right along!
Our next ultrasound with the Peri is in four weeks. I see my OB every two weeks still, and she will start NSTs and weekly visits at 32 weeks.
Moving right along!
Sunday, March 14, 2010
27 Weeks and STILL an eggplant - guess there isn't any appropriate produce?
Baby's lungs are going through some major developments these days, which (combined with the opening of previously plugged nostrils) means he's now able to practice inhaling and exhaling. The lack of air in your womb means every "breath" is filled with amniotic fluid, but hey -- it's progress.
Text courtesy of thebump.com
Text courtesy of thebump.com
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Another trip to Labor & Delivery
I spent the night in Labor & Delivery again. I was having contractions Friday morning but I was able to stop them with water and rest. Unfortunately they were were bad last night - every 7-10 minutes. The on-call OB didn't hesitate and had me come in. They hooked me up to the monitor and verified what I was feeling. I was in fact having contractions often. They gave me a test called a fetal fibronectin. This test is given to women with signs of preterm labor between 24 and 34 weeks. Fewer than 5% of women with a negative result will deliver in the next two weeks. Luckily my test was negative so I was sent home. I've been put back on bedrest for the weekend (they are allowing me to go to my baby shower today, but I can't drive and have to stay sitting accept to use the restroom) and have to increase my water intake. I'll call my OB Monday morning to see if I can go back to work or not. The good news is the girls are doing great - heartbeats are fabulous. My next ultrasound to check their growth and my cervix is on Wednesday. I'm praying my cervix is still long and closed after all of this.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
26 Weeks: Still an Eggplant
Baby's soaking up your antibodies, getting her immune system ready for life outside the womb. Eyes are forming, and she'll soon be practicing the blink...perfect for batting those freshly grown lashes.
Text courtesy of thebump.com
Text courtesy of thebump.com
Sunday, February 28, 2010
25 Weeks: Eggplant
Baby's now the size of an eggplant! That oh-so-handy sense of equilibrium is kicking in, and baby's learning to distinguish right side up from upside down.
Photo and text courtesy of thebump.com.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
24 Weeks: Still a Papaya
We made it to 24 weeks - hooray for viability. Though they girls still need to stay put for 10-12 weeks. With that said, it's been a rough day. I've been feeling pretty bad. My uterus has been rock hard everytime I stand up and I seem to be having a lot of braxton hicks contractions this evening. I hate not knowing when to call my OB and when not to call. It seems like every Sunday I have problems. I'm going to do a lot of praying and pleading to get through the night and hopefully I'll wake up feeling better tomorrow.
From the bump.com:
Baby's skin is becoming more opaque as the fat starts to pack on. And, thanks to the formation of small capillaries, her newly thick skin is taking on a fresh pink glow.
From the bump.com:
Baby's skin is becoming more opaque as the fat starts to pack on. And, thanks to the formation of small capillaries, her newly thick skin is taking on a fresh pink glow.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
23+3 Peri and OB Appointments
Can I just say PRAISE GOD!!!
I saw the Perinatologist and my OB this past Wednesday. After weeks of Braxton Hicks contractions, my cervix is perfect - over 4.5cm and no sign of funneling. My amniotic fluid levels were good. The girls weigh 1.5 and 1.6 pounds - they are at the 44th and 50th percentile for their age which is great. Baby A's placenta is no longer low lying and my SCH is gone. The Perinatalogist said I am in the 2nd lowest risk factor for preterm labor (for a twin pregnancy) - the lowest being someone who has already had a full term vaginal birth. He said that based on the ultrasound, I have the perfect twin pregnancy (which is ironic given that I've been on bedrest for 6 weeks)!
Given that report, my OB released me from bedrest and I went back to work part time on Thursday. It was tough to go from laying around for weeks to working 4-5 hours, but it was SO good to be back. I really missed my co-workers and my job. Not to worry though...I'm taking it easy. I'm only there for 6 weeks, then I'll go out on maternity leave. It's all happening so fast now!
Hallelujah!!!
I saw the Perinatologist and my OB this past Wednesday. After weeks of Braxton Hicks contractions, my cervix is perfect - over 4.5cm and no sign of funneling. My amniotic fluid levels were good. The girls weigh 1.5 and 1.6 pounds - they are at the 44th and 50th percentile for their age which is great. Baby A's placenta is no longer low lying and my SCH is gone. The Perinatalogist said I am in the 2nd lowest risk factor for preterm labor (for a twin pregnancy) - the lowest being someone who has already had a full term vaginal birth. He said that based on the ultrasound, I have the perfect twin pregnancy (which is ironic given that I've been on bedrest for 6 weeks)!
Given that report, my OB released me from bedrest and I went back to work part time on Thursday. It was tough to go from laying around for weeks to working 4-5 hours, but it was SO good to be back. I really missed my co-workers and my job. Not to worry though...I'm taking it easy. I'm only there for 6 weeks, then I'll go out on maternity leave. It's all happening so fast now!
Hallelujah!!!
Sunday, February 14, 2010
23 Weeks
One more week to viability. Lord give me strength to get there. I'm having a lot of Braxton Hicks contractions. Last night I got a bit of a break, but they are slamming me pretty bad this morning. Can't wait for my Peri appointment on Wednesday. I'll feel SO much better knowing that the girls, my cervix and my amniotic fluid levels are in check.
The scale is starting to move again. I'm up 14 pounds as of this morning, which I'm still pretty pleased with. I don't see too much of a difference over the past couple weeks but I seem to be getting more round. Here is the 23 week bump!
We're still a Papaya, according to thebump.com, but we have new development this week: Baby's little face is fully formed...minus the baby fat, of course. The next task at hand for baby: sprouting two teeny-tiny nipples!
The scale is starting to move again. I'm up 14 pounds as of this morning, which I'm still pretty pleased with. I don't see too much of a difference over the past couple weeks but I seem to be getting more round. Here is the 23 week bump!
We're still a Papaya, according to thebump.com, but we have new development this week: Baby's little face is fully formed...minus the baby fat, of course. The next task at hand for baby: sprouting two teeny-tiny nipples!
Friday, February 12, 2010
A Shopping We Will Go...
We've picked our bedding and furniture and I'm SO excited to get it! We're ordering the furniture from Babies R Us this weekend, and the bedding is on hold at Pottery Barn Kids for us to pick up. I can't WAIT to get the girls' nursery put together. I swear I'm just going to sit in there and smile.
Our bedding:
Our furniture: Two cribs, the four drawer and the combo.
Our bedding:
Our furniture: Two cribs, the four drawer and the combo.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Month 5 (Weeks 22 - 24): Papaya
Watch what you say -- baby is now able to hear outside noise from down in the womb. Studies show that baby finds gentle music and your own voice most soothing. Nipples are starting to sprout, and that little face is fully formed. And, baby's starting to settle into sleep cycles, snoozing about 12 to 14 hours a day. It shouldn't be hard to figure out when -- just pay attention to those kicks as they start and stop.
Photo and text courtesy of thebump.com
Saturday, February 6, 2010
21 Week Appointment Update
I saw my OB on Thursday, and for now, all is well.
Total weight gain at 21+4 is 11 pounds (this really shocks me because I usually gain weight SO easily, but my OB is totally fine with it given my starting weight and the fact that the babies are right on target).
Blood pressure is 122/81
Fundus is measuring 29 weeks.
She's keeping me on bed rest for two more weeks. She wants the spotting to completely stop. As of Friday morning, it has. She did lift me from strict rest to modified rest - told me not to lay in bed all day but to get up on the couch. She just wants me off my feet. I see the Peri on 2/17 and see her right after I see them, hopefully all will be well and I can go back to having some kind of life! She did approve me to work from home 3-4 hours a day, so we're going to work on seeing if the company will approve it.
She wasn't worried about the BHs at all. I guess she looked at the record from the monitor in L&D and said that most of them were just signs of an irritable uterus and not full on contractions. She didn't even feel the need to check my cervical length, even though I asked if she would. She said with it being 5cm two weeks ago, and with it being posterior, hard and closed on Sunday, that she had no doubts in her mind that PTL was not an issue for me at this stage. The peri will check it on the 17th.
My urine tested positive for GBS, which is not a big deal - 40% of all pregnant women get it. It just made me laugh...one more thing to add on to the list of so called complications.
Just about 2 more weeks to viability! Keep on praying for us!
Total weight gain at 21+4 is 11 pounds (this really shocks me because I usually gain weight SO easily, but my OB is totally fine with it given my starting weight and the fact that the babies are right on target).
Blood pressure is 122/81
Fundus is measuring 29 weeks.
She's keeping me on bed rest for two more weeks. She wants the spotting to completely stop. As of Friday morning, it has. She did lift me from strict rest to modified rest - told me not to lay in bed all day but to get up on the couch. She just wants me off my feet. I see the Peri on 2/17 and see her right after I see them, hopefully all will be well and I can go back to having some kind of life! She did approve me to work from home 3-4 hours a day, so we're going to work on seeing if the company will approve it.
She wasn't worried about the BHs at all. I guess she looked at the record from the monitor in L&D and said that most of them were just signs of an irritable uterus and not full on contractions. She didn't even feel the need to check my cervical length, even though I asked if she would. She said with it being 5cm two weeks ago, and with it being posterior, hard and closed on Sunday, that she had no doubts in her mind that PTL was not an issue for me at this stage. The peri will check it on the 17th.
My urine tested positive for GBS, which is not a big deal - 40% of all pregnant women get it. It just made me laugh...one more thing to add on to the list of so called complications.
Just about 2 more weeks to viability! Keep on praying for us!
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
The better late than never update
We had a little bit of a scare this past Sunday which sent us to Labor & Delivery. I was contracting pretty crazy. It was validating to watch it on the monitor and know that what I was feeling was really a contraction. At the same point, I was hoping they would stop once I got there...but they didn't, in fact they seemed to pick up in frequency.
They said I have an irritable uterus caused by all the fertility treatments and the D&C. I'm wishing now that I waited a few more months after my D&C to do this transfer. And then the bleeding from the SCH was just the cherry on the cake.
They said that contractions are contractions - the only difference between Braxton Hicks and Labor Contractions is BH are usually less painful and don't cause cervical dialation where Labor Contractions are more painful because they are causing cervical dialation. I asked about turbutaline, and they said that is only given once your cervix starts to soften and/or dialate. Because it has negative side effects too, they don't give it until there is a real need, which I apparently don't have. I have zero signs of dialation even remotely starting.
They said this was likely how it was going to be for me and that they would only get worse as the babies grew. They said I'm probably more sensitive to it - that if you lined up 10 pregnant women on the monitor, that they would all be having contractions but most wouldn't feel them all. I'm apparently feeling them all.
If this continues, I may be given the steroid shot at 24 weeks to mature the girls' lungs. There are also medications they can administer if my cervix does begin to dilate, God forbid. At this point, all I can do is hope and pray that the contractions stay light, that my water doesn't break, and that everyone stays put for AT LEAST five more weeks.
Quite a scare and I'm still freaked out, but I understand a bit more now and feel a bit more comfortable. I see my OB tomorrow and we'll see what is in store for us.
They said I have an irritable uterus caused by all the fertility treatments and the D&C. I'm wishing now that I waited a few more months after my D&C to do this transfer. And then the bleeding from the SCH was just the cherry on the cake.
They said that contractions are contractions - the only difference between Braxton Hicks and Labor Contractions is BH are usually less painful and don't cause cervical dialation where Labor Contractions are more painful because they are causing cervical dialation. I asked about turbutaline, and they said that is only given once your cervix starts to soften and/or dialate. Because it has negative side effects too, they don't give it until there is a real need, which I apparently don't have. I have zero signs of dialation even remotely starting.
They said this was likely how it was going to be for me and that they would only get worse as the babies grew. They said I'm probably more sensitive to it - that if you lined up 10 pregnant women on the monitor, that they would all be having contractions but most wouldn't feel them all. I'm apparently feeling them all.
If this continues, I may be given the steroid shot at 24 weeks to mature the girls' lungs. There are also medications they can administer if my cervix does begin to dilate, God forbid. At this point, all I can do is hope and pray that the contractions stay light, that my water doesn't break, and that everyone stays put for AT LEAST five more weeks.
Quite a scare and I'm still freaked out, but I understand a bit more now and feel a bit more comfortable. I see my OB tomorrow and we'll see what is in store for us.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
So here we are at 21 weeks!
How is it possible that I've only gained 10 pounds? Seriously, pre-pregnancy I could easily have gained 10 pounds in a weekend! All I can think is that these girls have a crazy metabolism (that they must have received from their daddy) and that I'm reaping the benefits. My OB said my weight was great last time I went in, and she said as long as they were growing on schedule, that she was okay with my gain being on the low end. I thought for sure after 3 weeks of bedrest that I'd be up at least a few. But I still eat VERY small quantities - I just can't get a lot down. I've been drinking a TON of water too, so that might be helping.
Here is the current belly - I have to say, I love the front shot!!!
My spotting is light, but it's still there. I wish it would go away completely, but I'm VERY thankful for light. It's a huge step above heavy, clotty or gasp...red. I've got at least 1 more week of bedrest ahead of me and then we'll see where we're at with everything.
I'm having braxton hicks contractions now, and a pretty steady rate at night time. Something new to worry about - joy! I know they are normal, but it seems like when I lay down and I'm not doing anything that I just get one after the other. Isn't that the opposite of how they are supposed to go? I see my OB on Thursday, but she doesn't do ultraosunds at this stage. I'm going to call the Perinatologist on Monday and see if I can get in and have my cervix checked. Begging may be involved and I'm surely not too proud to do it. I need the peace of mind of knowing that my cervix is still over 5cm and closed like Fort Knox after weeks of bleeding and now a week of BH!
Three weeks until viability - taking it one day at a time until I get there. Twelve weeks away from my 33 week milestone (33 weeks is the difference between the Peri delivering at the Level III NICU vs. my OB delivering at the Level II NICU. Pray, pray, pray.
Here is the current belly - I have to say, I love the front shot!!!
My spotting is light, but it's still there. I wish it would go away completely, but I'm VERY thankful for light. It's a huge step above heavy, clotty or gasp...red. I've got at least 1 more week of bedrest ahead of me and then we'll see where we're at with everything.
I'm having braxton hicks contractions now, and a pretty steady rate at night time. Something new to worry about - joy! I know they are normal, but it seems like when I lay down and I'm not doing anything that I just get one after the other. Isn't that the opposite of how they are supposed to go? I see my OB on Thursday, but she doesn't do ultraosunds at this stage. I'm going to call the Perinatologist on Monday and see if I can get in and have my cervix checked. Begging may be involved and I'm surely not too proud to do it. I need the peace of mind of knowing that my cervix is still over 5cm and closed like Fort Knox after weeks of bleeding and now a week of BH!
Three weeks until viability - taking it one day at a time until I get there. Twelve weeks away from my 33 week milestone (33 weeks is the difference between the Peri delivering at the Level III NICU vs. my OB delivering at the Level II NICU. Pray, pray, pray.
Week 21: Banana
Baby gulps down several ounces of amniotic fluid every day, both for hydration and nutrition and to practice swallowing and digesting. And, these days, those taste buds actually work! Studies show that after birth, babies are most interested in tastes they've already experienced through amniotic fluid. Meaning, think about what you want your future child to eat as you prepare your own lunch.
Photo and text courtesy of thebump.com
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Struggling along
This pregnancy has been so hard on me. I'm so worried that I'm going to lose the girls - and that worry comes daily...hourly.
I had red bleeding at 6 weeks. I had brown spotting every day from 7 weeks through 12.5 weeks. I had red bleeding at 11 weeks. I had a reprieve between 12.5 and 18 weeks. At 18 weeks I had brown spotting and cramping followed by an episode of red blood pouring out of me. I was put on bedrest where I've been since. I've been spotting brown since the bleed, and now I'm passing brown tissue and have a shooting pain in my cervix. I would swear that I was having Braxton Hicks in my sleep last night, too. I woke up at 2am and tossed and turned all night with a tight feeling in my uterus. I'm calling my OB today and hoping she can put my mind at ease a bit. I hate calling there...they always seem to make me feel like an idiot...like my fear and worry isn't justified. Easy for them to feel that way though - I'm guessing they haven't been through what I have been through.
I'm on the fence with excitement. I'm so afraid to get too attached - not that I haven't already. I still feel like this is going to get taken away from me suddenly. I can't stop feeling that way and I hate it. Everyone says to enjoy pregnancy because it goes so fast. Sure, I'm loving feeling them squirm and kick inside of me, and I love that I finally look pregnant, but I have not had the opportunity to enjoy being pregnant because it's been so plagued with fear.
Those of you that pray, please pray. I can't lose these girls. I just can't.
UPDATE: I talked to Dr. V. She told me I should get into therapy because she doesn't anticipate that this bumpy road is going to get any smoother. She reminded me that there is nothing either of us can do to hurt or help my pregnancy - that the SCH and low lying placenta issues are completely out of my hands.
She said the tissue passing was normal. She said as long as it's not red, that my SCH isn't getting worse and isn't active - she said she has NO concern with any brown spotting, discharge or tissue.
She said the shooting pains in my cervix/vagina are normal.
She said that since I couldn't designate a beginning and end point that I am probably not having contractions, but it is just my uterus growing and adjusting.
She told me that SCH does increase my risk of losing them, but at this point there were no red flags (like active red bleeding) to indicate concern to her, but at the same time, she can't tell me that everything will be okay.
So I stay here laying down, taking one day at a time, praying we make it to the next milestone (24 weeks).
I had red bleeding at 6 weeks. I had brown spotting every day from 7 weeks through 12.5 weeks. I had red bleeding at 11 weeks. I had a reprieve between 12.5 and 18 weeks. At 18 weeks I had brown spotting and cramping followed by an episode of red blood pouring out of me. I was put on bedrest where I've been since. I've been spotting brown since the bleed, and now I'm passing brown tissue and have a shooting pain in my cervix. I would swear that I was having Braxton Hicks in my sleep last night, too. I woke up at 2am and tossed and turned all night with a tight feeling in my uterus. I'm calling my OB today and hoping she can put my mind at ease a bit. I hate calling there...they always seem to make me feel like an idiot...like my fear and worry isn't justified. Easy for them to feel that way though - I'm guessing they haven't been through what I have been through.
I'm on the fence with excitement. I'm so afraid to get too attached - not that I haven't already. I still feel like this is going to get taken away from me suddenly. I can't stop feeling that way and I hate it. Everyone says to enjoy pregnancy because it goes so fast. Sure, I'm loving feeling them squirm and kick inside of me, and I love that I finally look pregnant, but I have not had the opportunity to enjoy being pregnant because it's been so plagued with fear.
Those of you that pray, please pray. I can't lose these girls. I just can't.
UPDATE: I talked to Dr. V. She told me I should get into therapy because she doesn't anticipate that this bumpy road is going to get any smoother. She reminded me that there is nothing either of us can do to hurt or help my pregnancy - that the SCH and low lying placenta issues are completely out of my hands.
She said the tissue passing was normal. She said as long as it's not red, that my SCH isn't getting worse and isn't active - she said she has NO concern with any brown spotting, discharge or tissue.
She said the shooting pains in my cervix/vagina are normal.
She said that since I couldn't designate a beginning and end point that I am probably not having contractions, but it is just my uterus growing and adjusting.
She told me that SCH does increase my risk of losing them, but at this point there were no red flags (like active red bleeding) to indicate concern to her, but at the same time, she can't tell me that everything will be okay.
So I stay here laying down, taking one day at a time, praying we make it to the next milestone (24 weeks).
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