So it seems I'm pregnant...

[Antigone]

10 weeks and 3 days today!

I kept quiet around here until I heard the heartbeat, which I did this morning. THAT was amazing. The midwife told me there was a 50/50 chance we'd hear something with the Doppler. My own heartbeat was so loud, and she and I kept laughing, and then suddenly she got a funny look on her face and said "OK don't laugh don't laugh!" and I listened and I heard that amazing, high-speed whoosh whoosh whoosh whoosh...and I got all teary and my husband got all teary and we held hands and it was just lovely. Also she told me that the extra-loud heartbeat of mine that she heard was also a very good, positive sound. Yay!

I'm still terribly nervous and looking forward to my first ultrasound (my midwives don't do them until 20 weeks BUT I've elected for diagnostic screening so I get one next week). My blood tests have all come back clear so far but of course there's always the worry of what could happen. I'm trying VERY hard to stay extremely positive!

Pet peeve of everything in my entire life (thanks to my mother): Unsolicited advice. Seriously. And I know I'm in for it in the real world but here...well...you know.... On the other hand, I love to ask questions and get answers. ;)

Oh also - PLEASE do not dot me for this thread. PLEASE DO NOT DOT ME. I have my reasons. PLEASE. Thanks. :)

So yeah. That's the scoop. I'm giddy. I can't stop smiling. My all-day nausea seems to be abating ever so slightly. (I had two weeks solid of that.) My boss doesn't know yet nor my co-workers as a whole, but I did tell one person today (because he gave his notice) and he let me know that people are suspicious. I thought if I didn't throw up at work and if my regular clothes continued to fit they wouldn't know - but apparently my 900000 trips to pee haven't gone unnoticed.

So hi. I guess I'm not exactly lurking here anymore.

[courey]

Yesss! Congratulations on no longer having to lurk! :e

[chickentart]

congrats!

[Amy!]

That's awesome Ms. Superstitious.

[iciclespark]

Woot! Congrats!!!

[katz]

:) congrats!

[Steve SFM]

Baby zinester! ;)

That's fabulous, Marla. Congratulations. :)

[lollipop gestapo]

[post28]

yay.

seems like everyone is getting preggers around here. dkjfg.

[Paul]

Congratulations! :)

[Antigone]

Baby zinester! ;)

Life in the Womb, Volume 1, due at your favorite distros shortly. ;)

[bear]

Congrats Antigone! That is wonderful news! :)

[ej]

Congratulations! :)

[Jezebelle]

Congrats girl :)

[half1113]

Congratulations!

[Tyler]

Aww! Congrats! :)

[Kari]

Congratulations sweetie!

*sends virtual dots*

[Fray]

Congratulations!!

[Antigone]

Unfortunately, while all this lovely stuff is going on, I have a separate medical concern. I am hoping that it's nothing, but I'm going to the doctor next week to have it looked at (the midwife said "I don't think it's anything but you might as well get peace of mind."). I am only posting this here to keep my fingers away from Google, which I use far too much as Dr. Google. Last time I did that I terrified myself and wound up OK (granted, OK after a biopsy, but still).

So, you know, good thoughts, because this is kind of bad timing.

Otherwise, all is well. I'm having more good days than bad, and I'm just so damn excited and overjoyed that I am having a harder and harder time hiding this at work. I have to go into the bathroom and do my little happy dances. :)

[St. Theresa]

Oh, wow! Congrats on this exciting new phase of your life! (I shall not even THINK of the word that begins with D, ends with T and has an O in the middle.) I know you don't want any advice but I have some: DON'T WORRY! (Save that for the teen years. ;) )

So we're due when...May? June? Woo! Nice time of year to have a bambino.

And if you ever need a babysitter...




















...call my kids. :P

[Antigone]

So we're due when...May? June? Woo! Nice time of year to have a bambino.
Ha. "We." ;) ;) I'm due July 3 or thereabouts. Just in time for the sweltering heat here in GA - if you'll pay airfare, I'll certainly hire your kids for babysitting! ;)

Seriously, thanks for the well wishes!

[St. Theresa]

Ah, July. That's nice, too. ;) Actually, it's early enough that you don't have to go an entire summer hugely prego, and it's always nice not to have to swaddle a baby until they can't move. You'll be able to let your new little wonder kick around in just a diaper. :)

[Antigone]

It's a strange swelling on my leg, about halfway between my knee and my ankle, on my tibia I guess. I also swear there's something caved in around there but I'm not sure. While I noticed it around 2 months ago, it seriously could have been there for months. I've also had what I suspect is sciatica developing in that leg, so perhaps it's related. I have many theories.

My blood pressure is normal to low, and the only thing I could find related to leg swelling and pregnancy was preeclampsia which I just spelled wrong, sorry, but I have no other symptoms nor anyone concerned (I'm officially "low risk").

Dr. Google also gave me lots of helpful REALLY SCARY POSSIBILITIES (unrelated to pregnancy) that I am trying not to think about. My husband requests that I not talk to Dr. Google anymore and I am resisting mightily. The last time I had a biopsy (for a breast lump about six months ago) I was convinced I had all sorts of things thanks to Dr. G. And I never came across the sites that told me what I *really* had, which would have been most helpful... so...

The midwife said it didn't worry her, and it's not a huge lump on my leg or anything, just a weirdness that starts to bother me when I poke it (so don't poke it! but I keep poking it!). I have a doctor appointment on Tuesday afternoon with an internist, so we'll see.

If I wasn't pregnant, I'd take this in stride, especially after the last time I went through this. Life's so much trickier now...

[courey]

Dr. G is a worthless know-it-all!
I hope it turns out to be nothing to worry about :)

[Jezebelle]

How are you feeling otherwise? Any other symptoms?

[Rose Bud]

It's a strange swelling on my leg, about halfway between my knee and my ankle, on my tibia I guess. I also swear there's something caved in around there but I'm not sure. While I noticed it around 2 months ago, it seriously could have been there for months. I've also had what I suspect is sciatica developing in that leg, so perhaps it's related. I have many theories.

My blood pressure is normal to low, and the only thing I could find related to leg swelling and pregnancy was preeclampsia which I just spelled wrong, sorry, but I have no other symptoms nor anyone concerned (I'm officially "low risk").

Dr. Google also gave me lots of helpful REALLY SCARY POSSIBILITIES (unrelated to pregnancy) that I am trying not to think about. My husband requests that I not talk to Dr. Google anymore and I am resisting mightily. The last time I had a biopsy (for a breast lump about six months ago) I was convinced I had all sorts of things thanks to Dr. G. And I never came across the sites that told me what I *really* had, which would have been most helpful... so...

The midwife said it didn't worry her, and it's not a huge lump on my leg or anything, just a weirdness that starts to bother me when I poke it (so don't poke it! but I keep poking it!). I have a doctor appointment on Tuesday afternoon with an internist, so we'll see.

If I wasn't pregnant, I'd take this in stride, especially after the last time I went through this. Life's so much trickier now...

Go look at the "Worst Pictures of You. Ever." thread in OIT. I posted a pretty bad one of me in there, when I was 8 months pregnant with Ben and puffier than the Sta-Puft Marshmallow Man. I had swelling and bloating pretty bad when I was pregnant with him, and it was NOTHING. I was just one of the unlucky ones that had swelling for no other reason than being pregnant.

[Antigone]

How are you feeling otherwise? Any other symptoms?

Totally fine in the pregnant area - a bit nauseous but otherwise that's all going well. :) Today (11 weeks!) I really felt like I'm starting to show - that the belly is growing beyond my usual gut. That's kinda fun. (I want to show! I can't wait until I'm fat! hee.)

But I have a feeling that I really do have sciatica since I have been plagued by lower back problems for years (thanks for the genes Dad!) and I've had vague pains running down to my calf since January. Yesterday I worked at my part-time job and after about 4 hours on my feet, I had to sit because it hurt. Oh fun - as the midwife said, the only real cure for this is "delivery." Well, my regular job is all sitting all the time...and I'll be more likely to let myself take some Tylenol after 12 weeks.

Rose Bud - yeah, i'm hoping the swelling is just random pregnancy-related, but it's very localized. I've been hyperaware of this type of thing since the breast lump, unfortunately. But today it feels even smaller, so perhaps it's just some random thing that will settle itself. Seriously, Google is EVIL.

Meanwhile, I think I'm going to tell my boss tomorrow, IF he comes into work. He broke his foot/heel/ankle and had surgery and has been out, came in once last week and burst his stitches in the process. I would rather tell him in person than on IM (which are my two options, believe it or not).

Another co-worker just gave his notice (a very important co-worker - and he did give his notice over IM!), so I'm not sure how this news will be taken (although I have some great leverage now) (my tiny company is exempt from FMLA and I don't know what our maternity policy is - I bet we don't have one yet!). But I'm hoping the boss, who knows I want children and who has a baby of his own that he is DEVOTED to, will see the happy side of this (I plan to ask him to table the business aspect of this discussion until next year - the office closes for Xmas-New Year's, so we can pick it up in January). And then I can tell everyone else (all 6 of them) at the company meeting on Tuesday. We'll see. (Don't you love parentheticals?)

Oh and I got called to jury duty in January. FOR THE FOURTH TIME! (3 in MA - the last one was after I moved so I didn't have to serve.) I definitely plan on using the "You really want someone who has to pee every 30 seconds and who is prone to sobbing about ridiculous things in your courtroom?" angle.

PS The sudden bursts of "OH MY GOD I'M PREGNANT I'M SO EXCITED!" and the feelings of ridiculous joy haven't abated. They temper the "OH MY GOD I ATE XYZ MY LEG FEELS FUNNY I WALKED BY A SMOKER I ACCIDENTALLY DRANK TAP WATER" quite nicely. ;)

PPS Seriously, if I ever type "DH" "DS" or "DD" - or worse, "AF", please give me a thousand red dots.

[Ryoko!]

yay! Just out of sheer curiosity, are you going to stick with your vegetarian diet throught your pregnancy? I don't know anything about it, but I think it'd be great if you shared your experince as a 'veggie mama' with the rest of us.

oh, and those little bursts don't go away until you have the baby. then the "OH MY GOD I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT I'M DOING!" set in for a little while.

fun stuff. :)

[Jezebelle]

GAH! You're in much better spirits than I am! ;l

I'm working full time and was miserable! I'm finally in the second trimester (seems I'm a week ahead of you) but I'm still not in the best moods. I'm happy, but I'm too overwhelmed with feeling poopy!

I'll use you as an inspiration :)

[Antigone]

This can be an experiment - I wonder if you're having a boy and I'm having a girl, or I'm having a boy and you're having a girl. ;) It will be interesting to see!

And I wasn't posting when I was like "ugggghhh, all I want to do is sit here because if I stand up, I'm going to puke on my shoes." ;)

[Antigone]

yay! Just out of sheer curiosity, are you going to stick with your vegetarian diet throught your pregnancy? I don't know anything about it, but I think it'd be great if you shared your experince as a 'veggie mama' with the rest of us.

Yep. Two different midwives said there's no reason why I shouldn't continue to be vegetarian, and one of them (the first that I saw) told me if I crave meat, she can get me to a nutritionist to see what I might be lacking. I've upped the beans/chickpeas and the nuts (eating lots of walnuts and almonds for the omegas) and tried to also pick whole grains that have a lot of protein. I do eat cheese and eggs as well, so I think this is going to be fine. :)

[Jezebelle]

Well, at my last ultrasound on Thursday (the one where they start to screen for Down's), they said that so far it looks like boy bits :)

I do think its a boy, for what its worth. Though I've only dreamt about a baby once since I've been pregnant and it was a girl.

[Antigone]

I could use some good thoughts today...I had some very minor bleeding about a half hour ago and I'm now pretty freaked out. I believe I know the trigger, and it wasn't heavy and stopped pretty quickly...but it was there and now I'm worried.

I left a message with my midwives - they are in a meeting and the answering service said they'd get back to me when they're done - and I coincidentally have that other doctor appointment at 4-ish (2 floors below the midwife group) so hopefully I'll get some answers.

I feel like I've come so far and I heard the heartbeat and...now what...

[courey]

*sends good thoughts*
try to stay calm, lady. I know, easier said than done! As Sauce mentioned up here (http://www.atforumz.com/showpost.php?p=4978816&postcount=23), bleeding seems to happen a lot more often than we realize. It doesn't make it any less scary, but most of the time it turns out to be fine! I hope such is the case with yours, and I'm glad you happen to have an appointment today to put your mind at ease more quickly. [post28]

[Antigone]

Thank you so much.

I have an appointment at 3:30, the bleeding seems to have stopped, and I wound up telling everyone at my work - they're all really excited for me, so it's great to have the positivity around AND to not have to hide anymore.

This is one damn STEEP rollercoaster. *sigh*

[St. Theresa]

I bled a little, too, and I can't tell you not to freak out, since I did. All I can say is I got a healthy kid out of the deal. <3

I hope your appointment goes great and you can relax about it tonight.

[Antigone]

Thanks lady.

[Antigone]

All is well (at least you know, for the next 5 minutes). The kid even cooperated by giving a resounding heartbeat the moment the midwife put the doppler on my abdomen.

Phew!

Unfortunately I missed my other appointment - and the nurse at that office was kinda bitchy about that. I was like "Look, I'm pregnant, I was bleeding, they saw me late, and I did everything I could to get here (I was two floors upstairs)." I rescheduled for next year and I'll just try not to worry about the leg thing.

But, well, now work should be more interesting now that everyone knows...

[St. Theresa]

Wee!!! :)

[courey]

Yay! I'm glad everything turned out well!

[Antigone]

Had my first ultrasound today, so now I know. 2 arms, 2 legs, a head, a nose, a very loud heartbeat (that part I'd heard before). No idea of the gender.

Wow, there's a kid in there... that was AMAZING. It feels even that much more real now!

I will get my screening results in a week, but I don't think I'll take it any further than that.

[St. Theresa]

And very soon, that kid's gonna start kicking you! Yay!

[Antigone]

There are so many fucking RULES to pregnancy. *sigh* Don't eat this, don't go there, don't do that. It's a wonder the human race exists.

(Please do not follow this post with OMGWAITUNTILTHEBABYISHEER, thx.)

On the other hand, I'd scanned in the ultrasound picture (no, I'm not going to post it) and I keep loading it up on my computer and just staring at it and getting all gooey and staring at it again. I'm trying hard to get some work done too (I have deadlines and I'm only working 3 days next week and then off for 12 whole lovely days!).

[St. Theresa]

I guess "wait until you've got a teenager" is out of the question, too, huh? ;)

Yes, you have to take marvelous care of yourself, but you do that anyway. I was a bad girl who had to stop ingesting all kind of things!

I do think, looking back, that I was much less delicate during pregnancy than I first feared. I remember my first thoughts. Oh, God, should I quit working??? (I was a waitron.) All the other waitrons who'd had kids just sort of rolled their eyes at me. Quit what?? LOL.

So I didn't. I left two weeks before my son was born, but with my daughter, I actually had to call in sick. I'll never forget the manager joking with me that I had one LAME excuse. Funny, too, because I always joked, while pregnant with her, that I would be working our Friday night fish fry (which was pure hell), and that I'd just go out back, pop her out, then return to the floor to serve unlimited seconds and thirds of fried fish. Well, I DID end up in the hospital on Friday. She was born only minutes into Saturday.

Anyway, what I really want to say is that toward the end of my pregnancy with my daughter, I fell at work. Slipped on a wet floor and went right down on my belly, at which point the freaking began. I went home and tried to relax so I could feel for her kicking. She was never nearly as active in the womb as my son, anyway, and particularly still this night, and I thought it was over. No other symptoms, no pain, no bleeding, nothing - yet I flipped right out.

But it was fine.

I think you'll be a model pregnant woman, M. Really. You're very well disciplined and you're smart and, like I said, you already take good care.

Gooey...lol. I remember that feeling, too. And of course I still have their ultrasound pics! :)

[half1113]

A lot of the do's and don'ts I compared to my Mom and Grandma's pregnancies. I didn't give up ALL the don'ts but I gave up a lot of the don'ts. I figured if my Grandma's 11 kids came out alright and my mom's 2 came out fine, then it couldn't be too bad. So far I was right.

[chickentart]

:)

[katz]

As far as the do's and dont's. Do what you're comfortable with.

I ate at Subway without microwaving the hell out of the deli meat. I ate hotdogs. I took baths. I slept on my back and my right side because it was more comfortable than the left.

[Rose Bud]

There are so many fucking RULES to pregnancy. *sigh* Don't eat this, don't go there, don't do that. It's a wonder the human race exists.

(Please do not follow this post with OMGWAITUNTILTHEBABYISHEER, thx.)




I wouldn't do that. I would however post that a lot of the don'ts are OMGOVERREACTING! I ate deli meats and hot dogs without microwaving them till they were shriveled, soft cheeses (those made in the US have to be pasteurized and I believe cheeses imported into the US have to be, too), ate tuna, drank coffee and diet sodas, took baths, and slept on my back because my hips would hurt something fierce if I slept on my sides. And obviously, neither my kids nor I died. ;) I believe in th e case of most of the don'ts the risk is far overstated, and anyone with their wits about them when it comes to proper preparation of food really shouldn't worry much.

The tuna though, the mercury thing is real. So I limited myself to tuna 1x a week. I love tuna sandwiches and that's about the only way I could stomach fish while pregnant, so I just kept it to a safe amount per week. But you're veg so you needn't worry. :)

[Antigone]

Thanks guys. :) Last night my husband bought me a bottle of juice, I took one swig and then looked at the bottle which said "This is not pasteurized!" So I didn't finish it, but I also told myself that I simply CANNOT freak out over every little thing (also it was just lemonade - and I drink water + lemon all day long anyway and I certainly don't boil my water and lemons first!).

I think know it will be OK, it's just totally in my nature to worry - but I'm working VERY HARD on counteracting that. And trying to stay away from Google some more. ;)

[Rose Bud]

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/8284167/

My husband sent me that article when I was pregnant with Benjamin, my younger son. It did help a lot to calm my overanxious mind and see that I was not alone. Sometimes, you just need to put the book down or step away from the computer!

[half1113]

I ate tuna, deli meats, hot dogs, and corn dogs. I didn't give up all caffine. My doctor told me I could sleep on my stomach, back, either side, as long as I was comfortable. The side thing was only a factor when you were having a complication. I did cut back on tuna fish because my mom freaked out after watching some segment on the Today show. Then she started feeding it to me again. I even colored my hair twice while pregnant. I actually quit reading pregnancy books because I got that overwhelming feeling I couldn't do anything while pregnant. Like the other ladies said, just do what you feel comfortable with. Also look to mom's, mother-in-law's, and grandmas' pregnancies for helping you realize it's ok. I have an anxiety disorder and I flipped out regularly. I visited iVillage a lot while pregnant.

[chickentart]

i keep rolling over onto my back and waking up thinking "omgBABY!"

but the back is so comfy... I've also read that you should do whatever's comfortable.

but staying away from tuna is a good idea. and you know what? i have a cup of coffee almost every day. i do it for myself, and you know what? the baby is fine.

[St. Theresa]

I don't remember worrying about how I slept. Only how the baby slept (PURE FREAK OUT) - and that was when sleeping position was hitting the news in exciting, new and frightening ways, a place where I shall not go right now. ;)

[courey]

God, if anything, this thread has thoroughly concreted the fact that I never want to have to go through ANY of this again! ;l I still remember all too well the stress and checking on the kids every 5 minutes to see if they were still breathing and fretting over which position to sleep in, and what I could and couldn't eat, and ARGH. Better you guys than me, because I just wouldn't be able to handle another 9 months [okay more like 24 months] of that garbage!

[Antigone]

I have zero concerns about how I sleep. ;)

So I had to explain to my step-mother-in-law tonight that it is Jewish custom to not bring anything for the baby into the home until it is born, and yes, we might not be able to manage that logistically but no, I don't want anything until at least month 7 (8 or even 9 would be better) and so yes, you bought baby clothes already (without knowing the sex or my style or anything?) and yes, it's really sweet of you (really, I did mean that!) but no, I won't bring them home with me after Xmas.

She didn't seem to have a problem and said she'd just send them along after I saw them at Xmas, but I still feel kind of...weird. Oh well. :) Seems to me a safer bet would be to get me maternity clothing gift certificates...

[St. Theresa]

I have zero concerns about how I sleep. ;)

So I had to explain to my step-mother-in-law tonight that it is Jewish custom to not bring anything for the baby into the home until it is born, and yes, we might not be able to manage that logistically but no, I don't want anything until at least month 7 (8 or even 9 would be better) and so yes, you bought baby clothes already (without knowing the sex or my style or anything?) and yes, it's really sweet of you (really, I did mean that!) but no, I won't bring them home with me after Xmas.

She didn't seem to have a problem and said she'd just send them along after I saw them at Xmas, but I still feel kind of...weird. Oh well. :) Seems to me a safer bet would be to get me maternity clothing gift certificates...
You ought to get her under control now. Like IXNAY ON THE ICE CREAMNAY.

[Antigone]

I don't get it...? No ice cream? I love ice cream!

[St. Theresa]

Not for you. For the baby. Sorry, I'm getting ahead of myself in thinking about grandmothers who feed your baby ice cream when you're trying to get them to like mushed carrots.

[Antigone]

She lives thousands of miles away (as does my entire family), so I'm not worried about that. :)

I thought morning sickness was supposed to ABATE around week 12. Not MAKE ME THROW UP AT WORK. :( Boo.

[bear]

It was week 13 for me when it disappeared as quickly as it came. My fingers are crossed for you on that one as I know how much that SUCKS!!

[delicious dish]

Not for you. For the baby. Sorry, I'm getting ahead of myself in thinking about grandmothers who feed your baby ice cream when you're trying to get them to like mushed carrots.

Or aunts.

*looks guilty*

[garoux]

I haven't been around the forumz much lately, but I wanted to tell you congratulations!

[stupidANDcontagious]

Congratulations!

[Ryoko!]

I loved the ultrasounds, they were the best part of being pregnant!
I loved iced coffee's while I was pregnant, baby was fine.
You should also get used to the idea that complete strangers will suddenly think you are public property and can be told what you can and can't do... or eat. Some will even think it's okay to touch you. It doesn't happen until you start showing.
I got to the point were I'd put on my most 'pissed off' look whenever I left the house. It worked..even my husband wouldn't touch me in public :).

[Beekeeper]

oh, i'm a little late but...
congratulations!
:)!

[Antigone]

My family and my in laws drove me nuts throughout the holiday. Whee.

Last night when I was sober and everyone was drunk, I declared "I want brownies!" and brownies were made FROM SCRATCH! By the childestfree of childfree! ;) But they had coffee in them and I didn't know until after. But clearly, I am fine. They were good.

I am still having the occasional bleeding - but nothing that is concerning (no cramping, very light, seems to be from external sources), just unnerving. I'll be talking to the midwife about it again next week. I'm also still having rounds of nausea and not much in the way of cravings/aversions - except nasty bright yellow cheese and salsa dip. Oh my god. I want that ALL THE TIME.

Happy New Year and thanks for the good wishes!

[chickentart]

ha ha! pregnancy cravings are the best! if you like bright nasty yellow cheese, may i recommend Easy Mac? It's only the easiest mac & cheese ever. And it's so, so, so good.

Easy Mac + Caffeine free Iced Tea = My 2nd Trimester

[katz]

^ reading that made me slightly ill lisa *L*

[chickentart]

i know. it *is* disgusting. but to me it's maybe the best thing ever.

[Antigone]

I actually have a box of easy mac from a long ago trip to a Costco. Mmm now I want it - but it's at home. I think I may start bringing some of that for lunch!

My aversion right now is to - weirdly - veggie chicken nuggets (and buffalo wings too). I can't eat them. And I used to love them.

[courey]

The only two things I remember craving that I didn't already normally eat was crab meat [which I like, but it's expensive so I don't normally eat it], and nasty baked beans and hotdogs. yark. The beans and franks gave me dry heaves and I immediately gave them away to whomever would have them. :p The rest of my cravings were just regular food, but somehow the cravings made it taste ten thousand times better!

[RealityTVjunkie]

congrats and enjoy all the weird food!

[bear]

Hee! I turned into a sour junkie. Lemonade! And seriously I would peel grapefruit and eat it. Salt and Vinegar chips.

Spaghetti sauce was a huge aversion because it was the first thing I hurled. Couldn't eat it for a very long time after that. Oh and the smell of eggs! ugh.

I'm glad your nausea is subsiding.

[Antigone]

Oh I wish my nausea was subsiding....

[Antigone]

So I wound up having an ultrasound today (the midwife appointment was scheduled, the ultrasound was not) after I mentioned spotting to my midwife (and after we'd heard the heartbeat on the doppler again). While the baby looks great (dancing around, waving its arms and legs - we also saw the heart, brain, and spine...) there's a small spot of bleeding on the placenta. Apparently this is something that often resolves itself with time, and I'm only 15 weeks so it's early, but it also could - according to the u/s doc - make me have the baby early. So that makes me nervous. I'm not on bedrest, but I do have to relax and stay off my feet as much as possible (I sit all day at work, and I let my parttime job at the bookstore know I'm not available this month).

I go back in a month for my official anatomical ultrasound and my regular midwife appointment. Nobody was saying "You should start seeing an OB" or "You need to come back more often." It was more of a wait and see.

Meanwhile I have pictures of the babyalien (that I'm not going to scan) - including its eyeball. Now THAT was fascinating and creepy.

So, you know, good thoughts are appreciated.

Oh and the nausea does finally seem to be subsiding. I only gained a pound so far, but I have a feeling that's going to change in the near future. :)

[bear]

Those are never the sorts of visits you want to have even if told not to worry. I bled 2 times when I was pregnant with my daugther. I was told I'd likely deliver early by a dr that wasn't my own. I was put on bedrest at 7 months. It ended up remaining as mystery bleeding and everything turned out fine.

I'm thinking about you and baby!

[Antigone]

Well I just got home from the hospital, after being admitted yesterday with what was 99.9% certainly a kidney stone (I've had one before). Oh so awesome.

Happily, there are pain meds approved for pregnant women. Also, I think labor is going to be a SNAP now that I've been through two of these.

The other stuff? Seems to be getting better. But overall? What a fucking roller coaster. When does the "enjoying pregnancy" part get to start for me?

[bellegurl]

No advice--just congratulations! Best of luck. Remember, the pregnancy may seem tough, but the real work (and joy) begins after baby is born!!:)

[chickentart]

The other stuff? Seems to be getting better. But overall? What a fucking roller coaster. When does the "enjoying pregnancy" part get to start for me?


I know!!!!! I've been saying all along... I don't think I'm like most women. I pretty much DO NOT like being pregnant. It's hard, I'm in pain, and I'm fat, plus I keep getting all these weird ailments. So when does all this supposed joyfulness begin, huh? But I feel kinda like I'm in the homestretch now, so that fact alone is actually making the pregnancy more enjoyable because I know it will be over soon.

[St. Theresa]

So I wound up having an ultrasound today (the midwife appointment was scheduled, the ultrasound was not) after I mentioned spotting to my midwife (and after we'd heard the heartbeat on the doppler again). While the baby looks great (dancing around, waving its arms and legs - we also saw the heart, brain, and spine...) there's a small spot of bleeding on the placenta. Apparently this is something that often resolves itself with time, and I'm only 15 weeks so it's early, but it also could - according to the u/s doc - make me have the baby early. So that makes me nervous. I'm not on bedrest, but I do have to relax and stay off my feet as much as possible (I sit all day at work, and I let my parttime job at the bookstore know I'm not available this month).

I go back in a month for my official anatomical ultrasound and my regular midwife appointment. Nobody was saying "You should start seeing an OB" or "You need to come back more often." It was more of a wait and see.

Meanwhile I have pictures of the babyalien (that I'm not going to scan) - including its eyeball. Now THAT was fascinating and creepy.

So, you know, good thoughts are appreciated.

Oh and the nausea does finally seem to be subsiding. I only gained a pound so far, but I have a feeling that's going to change in the near future. :)
I've never had the pleasure of kidney stones, but my mother always said it was just as bad as labor. In that case, NO THANKS!

Oh, and BYE nausea. Buh bye!

[Antigone]

I know!!!!! I've been saying all along... I don't think I'm like most women. I pretty much DO NOT like being pregnant. It's hard, I'm in pain, and I'm fat, plus I keep getting all these weird ailments. So when does all this supposed joyfulness begin, huh? But I feel kinda like I'm in the homestretch now, so that fact alone is actually making the pregnancy more enjoyable because I know it will be over soon.

Seriously! When do I get to glow and get all the energy and just...ENJOY? Ugh.

[Autumn]

Also, I think labor is going to be a SNAP now that I've been through two of these.


;l;l;l Yeah. Right!

Sorry to hear about your kidney stones. Hang in there, momma!

[half1113]

I never glowed and I never had energy. I also never really nested. All the nesting type stuff I did I FORCED myself to do. I thought I was going to have clear skin and shiny hair, never happened.

[chickentart]

Seriously! When do I get to glow and get all the energy and just...ENJOY? Ugh.

Give yourself a couple more months. (months!?!? i know.) But there are moments of glow. When you put together a cute pregnancy outfit and your husband tells you he likes your big juicy butt and the baby kicks a lot and he can experience it too... those are good moments.

[Antigone]

So my placenta - doing better.
My kidney stone - gone.
The baby has a 4 chambered heart, a spine, little tiny feetsies, a brain, all the important things.

Also it has a gender.


GIRL!


I've finally been feeling better (despite the occasional drama) and I'm actually SORT OF starting to enjoy myself!

Rah.

[katz]

awww yay! that's fantastic :) congrats!

[courey]

Yay! Great news!

[half1113]

Yay! Congratulations

[bear]

Very good! :)

[St. Theresa]

So my placenta - doing better.
My kidney stone - gone.
The baby has a 4 chambered heart, a spine, little tiny feetsies, a brain, all the important things.

Also it has a gender.


GIRL!


I've finally been feeling better (despite the occasional drama) and I'm actually SORT OF starting to enjoy myself!

Rah.
Yay! Because you know...

The Y chromosome is a mutation. ;)

[Antigone]

So now *brace yourselves* I'm looking for some advice! ;)

Is there anything I can do to stop the horrific, shooting hip/leg pain that I get almost nightly?

I have a Snoogle (a body pillow) that I keep curved against me or in front of me, and it does go between my legs (ooh kinky - haha so NOT) to keep them parallel. It doesn't seem to be helping. Last night I dreamt of Tylenol (which I am now avoiding since this poor kid has had quite enough of the pain meds in this pregnancy, thanks).

Ah the round ligament pain is a barrel of laughs too. And last night I tried prenatal yoga (the jury's out on whether I'll continue) and I got delightful back pains from sitting flat on the floor (which I quickly fixed by sitting on a blanket).

Meanwhile, I still won't buy anything for the baby (superstition, etc) for a while longer, but I am having the BEST time bookmarking sites (slings and cloth diapers mostly, with other random things thrown in) and daydreaming about SHOPPING. I scratch the itch with maternity clothing, but I have been thwarted by generous friends (and freecycle) so I don't actually need to buy all that much. Hrmph!

[half1113]

So now *brace yourselves* I'm looking for some advice! ;)

Is there anything I can do to stop the horrific, shooting hip/leg pain that I get almost nightly?

I have a Snoogle (a body pillow) that I keep curved against me or in front of me, and it does go between my legs (ooh kinky - haha so NOT) to keep them parallel. It doesn't seem to be helping. Last night I dreamt of Tylenol (which I am now avoiding since this poor kid has had quite enough of the pain meds in this pregnancy, thanks).

Ah the round ligament pain is a barrel of laughs too. And last night I tried prenatal yoga (the jury's out on whether I'll continue) and I got delightful back pains from sitting flat on the floor (which I quickly fixed by sitting on a blanket).

Meanwhile, I still won't buy anything for the baby (superstition, etc) for a while longer, but I am having the BEST time bookmarking sites (slings and cloth diapers mostly, with other random things thrown in) and daydreaming about SHOPPING. I scratch the itch with maternity clothing, but I have been thwarted by generous friends (and freecycle) so I don't actually need to buy all that much. Hrmph!

I went to a chiropractor during my pregnancy. It helped a lot and it was covered by my insurance.

[Jezebelle]

Keep it up with the prenatal yoga. I have an anatomically short right leg by an inch and a half and experience extreme low back and hip pain. I used to alleviate it by sleeping on a pillow on my stomach. As you can imagine - I can no longer do this. I now sleep on my side (which was a very difficult progression to make) with a pillow between my knees. Actually, my baby daddy bought me a new pregnancy pillow for me last night and it vibrates! Oh sooo many jokes....

but I digress...

I learned a lot of good stretches in yoga to alleviate back pain. A lot of them are partner based so you can show your husband how to stretch you. I often experience shooting pains in my right leg during yoga when I'm laying down flat on my back. But you have to work through it and let the area relax for a few excruciating minutes and then stretch it all out. Also, when you're lying on the floor like that, take something like a rolled up yoga mat and put it right at the small of your back. That should stretch it out really good.

I also do not take any medication for pain and prefer to just work it out myself. Prior to getting pregnant, I went to a chiropracter weekly and also a physical therapist. Even though all doctors say I can still see the chiropracter, I don't. It just seems to strange for them to pop my low back which is currently such an essential area for my growing baby. However, I hear it is an option.

You should meet me at my prenatal yoga class this Saturday. Its in Sandy Springs off Mt. Vernon Road at 10:30. Its a bit west for you out in Decatur, but its a good class at a Unitarian church. The woman also does a lot of stuff at their homes, but that isn't so cheap.

[katz]

Along with your Snoogle you could also look into a wedge pillow to stuff under your belly. I found those worked much better in my lower belly area than the body pillow. Keeping the belly more supported to the "middle" of my body helped my hip pain as my body wasn't being pulled down by the belly. The snoogle may also be too soft to support your legs/hips, so maybe one of those orthopedic pillows designed for sticking between your knees.

Have you looked into any places that possibly do pregnancy massage?

[Antigone]

I have a paypal account if anyone wants to buy me a pregnancy massage ;) It's not really feasible right now, but I do live right down the street from several lovely spas that offer it... hee. Actually my boss bought the office a quarterly chair massage - I skipped it last time (wasn't sure if it would be OK considering my health issues) but I'm going to find out if this time around I can do it.

My insurance doesn't cover chiro, and I am not really sure about seeing one anyway, but if things progress I may explore it. Acupuncture too. We'll see.

Jez - Sandy Springs is a bit too far, but I will try to keep up with the yoga class here and maybe things will get better. (I can only go alternating weeks because my centering group/midwife visits will be meeting at the same time, oh well.) We did an extended lying on our back/prahna at the end of the class and it involved propping ourselves on several blankets arranged in sort of a stairstep way - maybe I'll try that at home. I also have a yoga ball (planning to use it in labor) and I may try sitting on that.

And I like the idea of the wedge pillow too. I guess I didn't really think of it as my belly exerting force on my hip, but now that makes perfect sense. I'll look into it for sure.

Thanks guys!

[bear]

Pigeon pose worked wonders for me for that sort of pain. I did it almost daily. The yoga ball is fantastic too. I had one at the hospital and adored it almost as much as the rocking chair.

[courey]

The hip pain at night, the only thing that gave me relief was a hot water bottle on the hip!

[chickentart]

ICE AND HEAT.

That's my best advice. I had crazy ass sciatica (get it, crazy ass? ha.) and the only thing that helped was ice and heat.

Also, my doctors advised me, since I had it so bad, to "be aggressive with the Tylenol," and take it as directed.

[Antigone]

So far, an extra pillow under my belly has helped a bit. Of course now the upper back pain has begun so I definitely need a pillow for my work chair. And a new bra. But I'm taking notes, people! I'll try anything! :)

Oh yes and here's me at 20 weeks.

http://www.marlatiara.com/decatur/20w3dside.jpg

http://www.marlatiara.com/decatur/20w3dfront.jpg

[Steve SFM]

With kittycat bodyguards, yet! ;)

Lovely. :)

[katz]

awww you are looking lovely :) love the kitties too!

if you're finding that with your bras they still fit cupsize, but are getting snug in the band (which happened to me) i got a couple of those extender tabs to let myself out to a comfortable fit.

[Fray]

Awww, yay! You look fabulous! Such a lovely bump you have there!

[St. Theresa]

Wow! A pregnant Antigone! You really have a motherly look to your face now - and I don't just mean the pregnancy glow. I mean, like I could picture looking into that face after I had just stolen a cookie before dinner and YOU KNOW! :)

I can't believe it's 20 weeks already!

[Jezebelle]

You look great!

[BlogginBetty]

You are looking fantastic.

Wait till you get that huge big alien belly at around 39 weeks. Watching limbs and bums change the whole shape of your body is slightly alarming.

[Antigone]

So yesterday I had my work review and...I got a raise (and not just a cost of living one)! Yay! Finally a bit of breathing room for savings!

And I also brought up with my boss - because he asked - that I'd like to work from home after maternity leave ends (note that I *still* don't know what my maternity leave will be, although he again assured me it will be generous - he's working on hiring an outsourced HR firm because we are just 7 people, and he said he's going to work with them on it when he settles it all - and no, FMLA doesn't apply). ANYWAY he was very open to it, very thoughtful about it. I thought he would be - he has a 6 month old that he is in love with and he stays home all the time to be with her. :) Working at my job from home with an infant around will be challenging, but it also is feasible, I think.

Oh and I got a stupid hospital bill for part of the stupid kidney stone drama and it was slightly annoying but I'm tired and it's not worth fighting for this particular amount - but man, hospitals just nickel and dime you. Bitches. Anyway, it's being paid and YAY RAISE!

Oh and I'm feeling fine and just wish the little one would wiggle a bit more (but she was pretty active at prenatal yoga yesterday). As I keep saying, damn anterior placenta!

[Jezebelle]

Did you say.... she??? :)!

Congrats on the raise, too. I'm jealous of your ability to work from home!!

[bear]

That is awesome Antigone! Flexibility during that time will be great for you. I think you'll be able to swing working from home with an infant, it is when they are more mobile that it gets challenging!

Sounds like you have a great boss.

[Antigone]

Did you say.... she??? :)!

Heh, you didn't click on my spoiler tag? ;) (It's on the previous page, I think.) Yep, I'm having a girl!

I think you'll be able to swing working from home with an infant, it is when they are more mobile that it gets challenging!

Yeah but my job does require a lot of phone calls (I'm a writer, I do interviews for just about everything I write for my job) - and a crying infant can make things kind of complicated. I'm sure we'll be able to figure something out though, and I'm not too worried about it (yet). :)

[Jezebelle]

I hear Robitussin really quiets down a baby :p

[BlogginBetty]

I hear Robitussin really quiets down a baby :p

whiskey works better.

[chickentart]

i prefer methadone. what?

[Antigone]

I have been nudged by way of green dot (hi chickentart!) (oy, or maybe I'm just playing online riddles too often).

In short, things are going OK. I'm worried I'm starting to get a cold. I'm *FINALLY* feeling kicks/bumps/thumps. I started my group appointments aka Centering and I love it - we've got a great group - all over 30, 2 lesbian couples (YAY!), almost all of us on our first kid. Heartburn sucks (and I am not really supposed to chow on Tums because of the kidney stone, dammit). My mother is insane, my stepmother is also insane, everyone's crazy and I sometimes feel like the only advice I get is negative (did you know that childbirth HURTS? OMG SHOCK SHOCK! I HAD NO CLUE!). And I still haven't bought anything for the kid - well, I got a mei tai from a friend (her son didn't like being in it) and I am going to be ordering some prefold cloth diapers from a coop (I can't resist a good deal, I just can't) and I got some free snappis (cloth diaper holder things).

Also I got this at a used bookstore:

http://www.marlatiara.com/thrifty/babysigns.jpg

and thrifted this:

http://www.marlatiara.com/thrifty/betterhomebaby1.jpg
(Shockingly it's NOT as awful as I expected!)

24 weeks tomorrow, viability here we come!

[chickentart]

look at you working the thrift shop. is the advice in that better homes and gardens book archaic or pretty normal and applicable to today? i love love love baby preparation books. i read them every night. it's strangely comforting. it's like, the more i'm reading, the more prepared i feel, even though i know that when labor comes i'm going to be like every woman ever, going wacky because of the pain. and then wacky from sleep deprivation once the baby arrives. but the reading makes me feel better. i like to be super informed.

[katz]

snappis are awesome :)

[Antigone]

My cold did appear, and I stayed home from work on Wednesday trying to keep my fever in check (it bounced between 99-101 before it finally broke when I took 2 Tylenol - I had been taking 1 regular strength at a time, but it wasn't enough). I still feel pretty awful, actually, and I've been left with a seal bark of a cough. It worries me a bit, but I have my next centering appointment next Tuesday so I think I'll just keep on drinking hot water with honey and lemon unless the fever returns. :(

The Better Homes and Gardens book has, at least for pregnancy and newborns, decent advice and not the crazy "Bathe the baby in Lysol" type stuff I had expected. There's even a great section on cloth diapering (was there much of a choice in 1969?) and breastfeeding (though it gets into weaning a bit earlier than I personally plan to). So yeah, it's actually not that bad.

I am VERY excited about teaching this baby to sign!

That's all from here. *hack hack hack cough hack*

[half1113]

I hope you are feeling well soon.

[katz]

We just started signing with Lucien. He LOVES to watch us run through the ones we're working on. We have a couple little songs too that we sing and sign that to him are the Bee's knees. I cannot wait for the day he signs back to me!

[Jezebelle]

Wow - must be something in the air!

I was sick last weekend and the early days of this week. I couldn't breathe at ALL and thus, couldn't sleep either. I called the OB nurse finally on Monday and they said you could take Sudafed or Actifed. Then, I went to the pharmacist and he said Bennadryl because its a Class B drug, while the first 2 are Class C. I took only one Sudafed (instead of the requested two) and felt immediately better.

I would also hang my head over a steaming pot of water (for my eventual tea) and eat spicy soup for dinner.

Anyway, I hope you feel better :)

[BlogginBetty]

warm saline rinses up your nose work wonders!!!!

All through my pregnancy I had a stuffy nose. If you get one of those bulb syringes and squirt warm saline up your nose and wait a few seconds you will drain a lot of mucus out of your nose. it's gross but workswell.

[Antigone]

Wow - must be something in the air!

Hmmmm. I was at Doc Greens recently, and if I remember correctly you live in that general vicinity (yes I'm being vague, hehe - I was also at Moes and Boneheads and Coldstone Creamery...) and so IT WAS YOU! ;)

I'm feeling lots better - just the damn cough. Honey/hot water has been helping enormously though, and the cough is productive (I know, ew, but it's true!) so I don't want to stop it, exactly. I have some ideas, and it's just a few more days until my Centering group...

Anyway the girl has been wiggling around so I know she's doing OK in there. Every time I think "Wow she's been quiet" I get another round of wiggles. I guess size is beating the anterior placenta, finally (though it always does still feel muffled, hrmph). I think I had a growth spurt last night too. Whee!

[katz]

^ Glad to hear you're feeling better :) I had the pregnancy stuffiness, it was the absolute worst! I loved my saline nose spray!

I can remember waking up one morning going ZOMG where did this giant baby belly come from? I swear it doubled in size one night.

[Antigone]

Oh, I'm not stuffed up at all. This was a full blown chest cold - my lungs are still mucusy. But I think I'm getting better.

Girl has been mysteriously quiet though.

[stupidANDcontagious]

Heartburn sucks (and I am not really supposed to chow on Tums because of the kidney stone, dammit).


Get some papaya extract ASAP!

http://www.marlatiara.com/thrifty/babysigns.jpg

I have that one. I've signed with both of my kids and can't recommend it enough. It's super neat when they sign to each other.

[Barbarella]

Heartburn-Pepcid rocks!

Cold-Sudafed worked to keep my sinuses clean, so I was able to sleep at night.

And I'm hoping to get these when the baby is old enough:
http://www.amazon.com/Baby-Einstein-My-First-Signs/dp/B000LSAIZI/ref=pd_bbs_1/104-9030661-2483131?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1174313381&sr=8-1

[Jezebelle]

Hmmmm. I was at Doc Greens recently, and if I remember correctly you live in that general vicinity (yes I'm being vague, hehe - I was also at Moes and Boneheads and Coldstone Creamery...) and so IT WAS YOU! ;)



You know what? I was just licking that salad bar a few weeks ago!! :p

I'm glad you're feeling better. I didn't feel my little guy as often or as forceful during those few days... it was more of a flutter here and there and not the big kicks I was getting every evening. I figured "oh he's getting bigger, less room, don't freak out". But after I got better, he was a moving around, kicking, doing flips etc! So, I think he may have gotten a little sick, too. That makes me feel sad :(

I'm starting to feel like a marsupial. I wish I could put him back in my tummy in October and just bring him to work.

[katz]

http://www.signingtime.com/

these DVDs were recommended to me as well by a WeeHands (http://www.weehands.com/) instructor. I've picked up vol. 1&2 just to help brush up on my own signing. It's been ages and I'm embarrassed that I've forgotten most of it after spending$$$$$ to learn it in University as a minor-hangs head-

[Antigone]

Yay for signing! I really think it's going to be extremely beneficial.

Meanwhile...today I got really...REALLY good maternity leave news. The boss wouldn't put it in writing (we're looking into HR firms and I suspect he wants to wait until THAT is settled before locking anything in), but I don't *think* it will change. (Ever the pessimist, I will worry until I do have it in writing.) Ah, a recap is that my company's far too small for FMLA and I prepared myself for the minimum...but that's not what he just offered me. He has a 9 month old daughter and totally understands the importance of these things...I'm pleased.

This is very very good.

[chickentart]

lucky girl! congrats.

[Antigone]

Have that baby! ;)

[chickentart]

working on it. ate a lot of horseradish last night in hopes of inspiring her to migrate. didn't work.

[half1113]

Great to hear about your maternity leave. I came in one week to do the end of the year invoicing and they thought I was back. I had to set them straight with only on a part time basis.

[Antigone]

Apparently there is some restaurant here in the Atlanta area that has an eggplant parmigiana that is KNOWN for inducing labor within 24 hours. Two different people told me about it this week and I cracked up - I guess the restaurant even has a wall of babies born because of the magical eggplant!

*ships eggplant to chickentart*

(Jez may know about this...ah, this just in...it's Scalini's Italian Restaurant on Cobb Parkway. There ya go.)

[chickentart]

*googles eggplant serving restaurants in Portland*

[Barbarella]

One of the methods of self-inducing labor that's been sweeping the internet in recent years is the myth that eggplant will start labor. This maternity myth started when a news story began circulating about a restaurant in Georgia named Scalini's. Apparently the mothers of over 300 babies have gone into labor in the past 23 years, within 48 hours of eating the eggplant parmegiana.

The funny part is, it may just be that the dish causes the women to go into labor, but it's not the eggplant. The herbs Oregano and Basil have properties that may cause contractions, though it is not yet known how or in what quantities.

http://www.christian-mommies.com/ages/in-the-womb/natural-labor-induction-methods-will-castor-oil-or-eggplant-start-labor/

I've seen twice, on "A Baby Story" where caster oil has caused women to go into labor.

[Antigone]

Not that I was *REALLY* worried but I don't have gestational diabetes. *boogies* And that drink was so not bad at all. Kinda tasty actually. ;)

Apparently I am slightly anemic, but I've put a call in to the midwife to get some more info because I hadn't taken my (iron-rich) prenatal before my bloodwork this morning (I wasn't sure about whether it would screw with my results) and I don't want to double up on iron if I don't need to. (Don't worry, the midwife will tell me.)

Also I ate moldy cheese yesterday by mistake. I'm over it now. I may not have even eaten the mold, I noticed it on a piece I hadn't gotten to. And hey, maybe it will give my daughter gorgeous turquoise eyes, because that was the color of the mold!

[stupidANDcontagious]

I've seen twice, on "A Baby Story" where caster oil has caused women to go into labor.

My disdain for that show aside, I've heard more negatives than positives about using castor oil. You can read about it, and some other natural induction methods at this page (http://www.gentlebirth.org/archives/natinduc.html).

[courey]

I tried the castor oil method with Salem; he was a week overdue, it was the dead of summer, and I was miserable. I thought swallowing castor oil was worse than being a week overdue in the dead of summer. And it didn't work, so I drank castor oil for nothing. I highly recommend avoiding it! :e

[Jezebelle]

;l

Scalini's! Have you heard about that place yet antigone? It is a local legend around our parts :)

[chickentart]

we tried sex.

and i'm still pregnant.

totally not worth it. ;l;l

[Jezebelle]

;l ;l ;l

Sex at 9 months... I can't imagine. I'm hardly getting any at 6!! Its soo... strange....

[chickentart]

oh god i won't scare you with the gory details. i say wait till you're hot again. seriously. i'm gonna.

[Antigone]

I'm still hot dammit!

I'm not kidding - at least so far, I love my body this way. My hair and nails have never looked better either. :)

That said...perhaps I will change my tune at 8 or 9 months...? ;)

HAVETHATBABY! Whee!

Mine's finally - FINALLY - started kicking me on a regular basis (thanks anterior placenta). I adore it.

[BlogginBetty]

You know, maybe I am weird but I seriously enjoyed sex while pregnant. Well after morning sickness was over.

Getting around the big belly was intersting (doggie style was a HUGE no go) but I found it overall more satisfying. Probably because worrying about birth control was out the window.

[chickentart]

i was hot for awhile. probably till i hit about 6 months and then i just felt like i had a turkey up my shirt. and that complicates things.

[katz]

-snortlaugh-

turkey up your shiRt!

[Antigone]

MOTHERFUCKING INSURANCE.

They rejected the claim for my last ultrasound. Yes, I had 2 prior - one for nuchal fold screening and one to see why I was bleeding. The third was a follow up on the bleeding and an anatomy scan. It wasn't for shits and giggles - and actually, one of those fun little 4D scans at a kiosk would be about a quarter of the price -- and my "why is she bleeding" ultrasound was also about 1/3 the price.

So tomorrow I have to take time out of my day to call both the insurance company and the hospital, because the insurance company closes at 5 and the hospital closes at 4:30 - so helpful for working people, thanks. I am going to find out why the hospital charged so much - and, I suppose, set up a payment plan so at least I'm not out a HUGE chunk of change while they sort their shit out. I have fought the insurance company before, I just hate doing it. So. Much.

[chickentart]

omg that SUCKS. are you sure they won't cover it? you should really put up a fight on that one.

[Barbarella]

That's crazy! Sorry you're having to deal with this BS. :(

[Rose Bud]

MOTHERFUCKING INSURANCE.

They rejected the claim for my last ultrasound. Yes, I had 2 prior - one for nuchal fold screening and one to see why I was bleeding. The third was a follow up on the bleeding and an anatomy scan. It wasn't for shits and giggles - and actually, one of those fun little 4D scans at a kiosk would be about a quarter of the price -- and my "why is she bleeding" ultrasound was also about 1/3 the price.

So tomorrow I have to take time out of my day to call both the insurance company and the hospital, because the insurance company closes at 5 and the hospital closes at 4:30 - so helpful for working people, thanks. I am going to find out why the hospital charged so much - and, I suppose, set up a payment plan so at least I'm not out a HUGE chunk of change while they sort their shit out. I have fought the insurance company before, I just hate doing it. So. Much.


It is complete BS because it's SO easy to write off pregnancy ultrasounds as medically necessary (because they are 99 percent of the time!). I had at least 5 ultrasounds with each of my kids, and none of them cost a damn cent. Paying for ultrasounds should be the least of an insurance company's worries when it comes to paying for pregnancy related care. Shoot even where I used to work, a woman didn't need an authorization for one. It was an outpatient procedure...Did they give a reason why it was denied? No Authorization, duplicate claim, non-covered benefit?? Because it really does sound like BS that it was denied. :s

[Steve SFM]

Fucking insurance. Sorry, Marla.

[Antigone]

All it says online is some insurance-speak like "rejected" or something. I'll be calling tomorrow - I just loooove that they have hours that coincide with my WORKING hours. I'll go in late so I can take care of this. Ugh. It's so obnoxious (and not the first time I've had to argue a charge with this company).

Anyway, I'm hopeful that they will cover it in the end - but I'm sure they'll make me jump through all sorts of hoops and have to make 10000 phone calls to take care of it. I don't think my one phone call tomorrow is going to make them say "Gosh, our mistake!" Oh no, this will take a great deal of my time. Fuckers.

[Circusgirl]

Very aggravating, but very much like all the shit you go through when you're a Mom. Our insurance changed and the counselor my daughter sees is no longer on our plan. How do I tell my six year old that? I could quit my job and just make phone calls and appointments full time.

Congratulations though! I just stumbled upon this thread. That is awesome. I'm pretty sure I have met you a couple of times at concerts.

[Rose Bud]

All it says online is some insurance-speak like "rejected" or something. I'll be calling tomorrow - I just loooove that they have hours that coincide with my WORKING hours. I'll go in late so I can take care of this. Ugh. It's so obnoxious (and not the first time I've had to argue a charge with this company).

Anyway, I'm hopeful that they will cover it in the end - but I'm sure they'll make me jump through all sorts of hoops and have to make 10000 phone calls to take care of it. I don't think my one phone call tomorrow is going to make them say "Gosh, our mistake!" Oh no, this will take a great deal of my time. Fuckers.

What exactly does it say? I used to work for a health plan, I may be able to decipher what the hell they mean. I saw RA's so damn many times I still remember what a lot of the denial codes were (even though I haven't seen one in months...).

[Rose Bud]

Very aggravating, but very much like all the shit you go through when you're a Mom. Our insurance changed and the counselor my daughter sees is no longer on our plan. How do I tell my six year old that? I could quit my job and just make phone calls and appointments full time.

Congratulations though! I just stumbled upon this thread. That is awesome. I'm pretty sure I have met you a couple of times at concerts.

Argue for them to authorize visits with that counselor on the basis of continuity of care. They will cover a non-network provider in cases where it's deemed that continuity of care is necessary. And you may be able to argue that point because of the sort of relationship between the patient and the counselor and that your daughter is a child, too. It's worth a shot!

[Jezebelle]

I'm so sorry Antigone - that sucks :(

... but can we go back to talking about sex again?? Seriously - how are you ladies doing it?? And how is doggystyle NOT the position to go in? Cuz frankly, its the only one that gets that belly out of the way. okay spoiler...

However, though I enjoy a good banging, it doesn't usually bring me to the brink of ecstacy. Besides, my husband is barely giving up any good banging!! He's terrified of hurting the baby!! I had heard that sex would be great in the second trimester and really it hasn't been. I enjoyed it a great deal more prior to pregnancy. Anytime we're doing it, I just hope and pray that the baby doesn't move. I sooo don't want any other human interaction with my firstborn and husband.... *cringe*

Maybe I should start another thread :p

Again Antigone - I'm so sorry about the insurance, but I figure this can be worked out with the right kind of bitching and "can I speak with your supervisor?". Besides, as I understand it, if your doctor says you need it - then it should be covered. Maybe a strongly worded letter from your doctor may help.

[Antigone]

What exactly does it say? I used to work for a health plan, I may be able to decipher what the hell they mean. I saw RA's so damn many times I still remember what a lot of the denial codes were (even though I haven't seen one in months...).

Well, the insurance company told me on the phone that it was coded as an "experimental" treatment. Which is like...duh? What? It was an ULTRASOUND. Insurance wants paperwork saying it was medically necessary. I'm working on that...

The hospital billing department said "That's strange, I'll send it to get reviewed." (good) and "I'll put a note in your chart." (good) and "You have 60 days before we take action anyway." (good)

The midwife office said "Call the perinatal center."

The perinatal center that did the ultrasound said "Get the paperwork from your doctor - this is what you need, it should be in your chart, call back if you still need help. The insurance company probably only covers 2 ultrasounds." (I have never been told this, I don't necessarily think it's true, and I had the "extra" ultrasound because I was bleeding anyway so it's all medically necesary.)

The midwife office said "Call the peri...oh? OK. I'll have someone get back to you."

I am *pretty* sure I can get the paperwork eventually. It's just all bullshit and running around. I'll email the midwife I know best eventually (and I'll see her in 2 weeks anyway) and hopefully she can help.

(Can you pretty please start a new thread for sex talk? Danke!)

[Antigone]

Wee update for those that care ;) My midwife (the one I see for my group appointments) left me a message this morning saying she'd write a letter (I'm so mad I missed her call). I left her a message back with the pertinent details. I think I still need the clinical paperwork as well (shouldn't be hard to get and she may have meant that + letter anyway) and I still hold out hope it was in fact poor coding on the hospital's part and that they'll resubmit and it will get paid. Anyway I can't stop obsessing about this and I just want it to GO AWAY.

Maybe it's for the best that I'll likely have different insurance for when I deliver...

[Antigone]

I don't know if anyone's following my little saga, but hey, here's an update. The midwife faxed over a letter to the insurance company last week ("hey bitches, this is medically necessary so shut the hell up"). I called the hospital's billing department today to check in and my account is on hold while it's under review. So for now, there's nothing else I can do until someone calls me. Yay.

Meanwhile, the baby has begun to definitely let me know she's here. I love it, although last night when I was trying to sleep I got a few pokes and was like "OK kid, bedtime." Still, I don't get sick of it. I only gained 3 pounds (1 a week) and all seems to be going...dare I say...well? *knocks on wood a million times*

Plus I found out that my midwife practice doesn't require weekly appointments as I get closer (nor cervical checks) and that the next test I'll have to do is Strep B at 36 weeks. And that I'm already preregistered at the hospital. Good stuff.

28 weeks, third trimester, whee.

[courey]

Awesome! Glad to hear things are going so well, and I sure hope they sort out that bill for you!

[Amy!]

Good stuff, when do we get to start the baby in the tiara pics countdown? ;)

[Antigone]

Everyone wants to see the baby in the tiara! I have a feeling I won't be putting it near her for a few months as it has lots of little pieces that could be chewed/swallowed. Plus all those famous-person-molecules could leap upon her! ;) But yes, it's definitely something I'll be doing and posting to the site as well. (And no, I'm not naming her Tiara, haha.)

Indulge me for a few moments as I talk incessantly about stuff...

Here's some new pics from today because I just got my hair cut. I told my amazing hairdresser (I *LOVE* her) that I wanted to have a haircut that took a bit of fussing for just a few more months, before I'm reduced to hats/bandanas/lack of time for much of anything. I want to be a hot mama though!

So here's moi at 28 weeks 5 days, fresh from the salon oooh aaaaah....


http://www.marlatiara.com/decatur/28w5dfront.jpg

http://www.marlatiara.com/decatur/28w5dside.jpg


Aaaalso, I finally finally am allowing myself/others to buy things for the baby. And can I tell you, thrifting = love? $1.29 for a onesie? SCORE!

(Spoiler tag = lj cut tag...)


http://www.marlatiara.com/thrifty/tinies1.jpg

http://www.marlatiara.com/thrifty/tinies2.jpg

http://www.marlatiara.com/thrifty/tinies3.jpg
(My husband got all mushy...)

http://www.marlatiara.com/thrifty/tinies4.jpg
OK so this one was $1.60 - but HOW FREAKING CUTE?

http://www.marlatiara.com/thrifty/tinyshirt1.jpg


Saving money on clothes = more money for cloth diapers (aka fluff).

aaaaaand we've picked out our nursery furniture - www.babysdream.com - we're going with the Generation Next collection, not sure exactly which color (one of the darker natural wood tones).

There you have it. :)

[Fray]

You and new hair are beautiful!

I do miss your thrift updates so very much!

[Barbarella]

Your hair looks fab!

I can't wait to go shopping!

[Antigone]

I do miss your thrift updates so very much!

I thought of you and decided to add the thrifting stuff to the post. ;)

I've also gotten a bunch of baby/childrearing/parenting books (I think I posted some of them - yesterday I got the Baby Whisperer - which is...eh...OK... - and Husband-Led Childbirthing or something, a Bradley book, which looks interesting.)

[Pan.]

^I had no idea that you are going to have a baby...

congratulations :)

[half1113]

I love your hair and you look fantastic.

[bear]

You look fantastic.

And The Very Hungry Caterpillar onsie! Ahhhh! I adore that!

[Antigone]

^I had no idea that you are going to have a baby...

congratulations :)

you silly, what did you think my user title meant? ;)

I started drinking my red raspberry leaf tea today (I've been taking raspberry leaf in my prenatal vitamins almost all along, with a one-month deviation when I temporarily switched brands) and I signed up for birthing classes (12 hours?! Yeesh. But they include breastfeeding support/info). I've inquired about when the pediatrician I'm considering gives tours (they're calling me back when they start scheduling May) and I got my Very First Cloth Diapers (omg squee - a BumGenius 2.0 all in one and a one size - one on clearance, one a second). I even went to my first La Leche League meeting which was really enlightening (but hard to hear everyone over the din of toddlers squealing). So progress is being made but damn there is still SO MUCH SHIT TO DO before she gets here. And I still don't have a doula (last night I met one at the LLL meeting - she was disinterested in talking to me, distracted, and her business card says "Doula Service's" so no, she's not the one for me. I really need to get going on that though.)

Last night she was kicking my side with such force that my husband actually got to feel her a few times. I love it.

[Barbarella]

Last night she was kicking my side with such force that my husband actually got to feel her a few times. I love it.

Yay! [post28]

[Pan.]

you silly, what did you think my user title meant? ;)


;A

omg! lol

what am I gonna do with myself?

[Antigone]

Just popping in to say that the kid is head down - or at least she was yesterday. I told her to STAY THAT WAY but I don't know if she'll listen (lots of kicking up high today though). Also I ordered More Cloth Diapers! Squee! And our nursery furniture! And I met with a doula (not sure if she's "the one" but yay for more progress)! And I got some cute (and not vomitpinkexplosion) clothes from my stepmother! And we registered at Babies R Us! (OK I hated that.)

Exclamation point day! Yay!

[Antigone]

Dammit - I need a new bra, but I don't need a nursing bra yet (I'm sure my size will be different at that point so I want to wait) and I don't want to buy a $40+ bra for the few short weeks I'll wear it (and I'll need at least two) and I don't want to buy online since I'm not positive of my size (I know, I know, get out the tape measure, I know...but it's trickier now!). But I CAN'T FIND A DAMN THING ANYWHERE. And my current wardrobe is starting to not be sufficient.

It didn't help that I was on the bigger side to begin with. *ahem*

[toadpea]

This is one of the things I'm not looking forward to. I already am a 36 D and find it difficult to buy close that aren't popping at the seams. Oh, well at least my husband likes big fun bags:f

Anyway back to you, would a sports bra work? I know the sizing on those can be easier to deal with and they offer great support.

[Antigone]

I went to Motherhood Maternity and was measured and then told that they don't carry my SUPERGIGANTIC size in store.

So I popped up to Lane Bryant and bought 2 bras there. So far they seem pretty good. :) And they were on sale so they weren't ridiculously priced. I've read that sports bras are also a good alternative and I may look into them if/when I get even bigger...

[Jezebelle]

And they were on sale so they weren't ridiculously priced. I've read that sports bras are also a good alternative and I may look into them if/when I get even bigger...

This is essentially what I bought, but I also picked up a nursing bra which I wear more often. I just needed something with no underwire whasoever as it would poke very painfully into my sides.

[Ryoko!]

I went to Motherhood Maternity and was measured and then told that they don't carry my SUPERGIGANTIC size in store.
.

Gah! i hate that place. Over-priced under stocked twits. I also had the same response when I was looking for new maternity jeans. i honestly don't know what the point of MM is, becuase they carry everything in such small sizes.

So anyways, I was told to go to their website, which was just as expensive and STILL didn't carry anything in my size that i would be willing to pay a ridiculous amount for.

down with the MM stores!

[katz]

http://www.bravadodesigns.com/

See if you can find a few of these bras. They're fantastic nursing bras and come in everything from holding up the barely there even while nursing boobies to the my god how do you deal with those AND the baby boobies. Plus they're simple and pretty :) I have 4 of them and they are some of my comfiest bras.

[Antigone]

I've heard *great* things about Bravado. But I'm not ready to buy nursing bras yet - I know I'm going to get even bigger when my milk comes in, so I just wanted something that would er...hold up for the next few months. ;) Anyway, I definitely will check that out and bookmark it for future use - thank you!

So far so good with the Lane Bryant, I think I'll be OK for a bit.... Oh and the Motherhood woman (I'm with Ryoko, that store just sucks boo hiss) did give me a business card for a shop near me that specializes in maternity bras and other stuff. But I can tell it's a pricey store - still, I splurged on my pre-pregnancy bras (and they did manage to take me all the way up to now, they're just that good quality, but I think they're now done for) so I'll probably splurge on a nursing bra or two.

[Antigone]

Yay! Doula hired! (Man, the concept of a doula confuses my mother soooooo much.)

Plus - pediatrician meet and greet set, birthing classes set, infant CPR class set, breastfeeding class set, lovely starter set of cloth diapers on their way as are 24 prefolds from a co-op. Still have a thousand things to do, but progress is BEING MADE!

PS Yay Bravado carries bras in my size! And they do have some non-nursing bras that are on sale/discontinued, so I may go for it and order one or two.

[Antigone]

If my mother asks me ONE MORE TIME how much weight I have gained...*bites tongue* (For the record? An average amount that my midwife hasn't said a word about. I'm HEALTHY so who cares?)

She's coming to visit this weekend. It seemed like a good idea at first anyway...

[Ryoko!]

pffft. weight-schmeight. You'll lose it after the baby comes, i lost 30 lbs right after birth and then another 30 within 2 weeks. Altogether i gained 80 lbs for the duration of my pregnancy.
i lost ALL of it, and then some. there was a point however, when my husband threw the scale in the bottom of the 'bottomless pit' closet.
healthy baby= no weight worries.


oh and you can totally go off on your mom. Blame it on the hormones.
Stupid hormones!!
;)

[Antigone]

I managed to handle my mom somewhat OK, despite her endless questioning of every choice (baby and non-baby) that I make and her bizarre suggestions.

We called my grandmother at one point and she too asked about my weight. Grrr.

On the plus side, I got some money, so as you'll see, I'm kind of on a spree... (I'm not having a shower, so I'm buying most things on my own.)

I bought an Ergo yesterday at this pregnant-lady expo I went to and I'm soooo excited. Now I have a mei tai (but it was a gift and not one I'd choose, so I'm planning on buying a BabyHawk or Mei Tai Baby soon), a hotsling on the way (I think), a Moby wrap on the way (for sure), and the Ergo. YAY! I also bought adorable handmade cloth wipes (with bunnies on them!) and am debating buying an expensive bamboo fitted diaper. It's sooooo soft and nice though!

I also just boiled and am now washing some prefolds (I kind of splashed myself on the chest/belly with boiling water - just a drop - and I'm less than pleased but oh well, it seems fine). NESTING HERE I COME!

The nursery furniture gets delivered Monday and I think the co-sleeper I ordered will be here Monday too. A buncha Kissaluv size 0 diapers should be here Monday or Tuesday. I bought my little Dresden-Dolls-to-be fan some black and white striped babylegs too. I heart shopping - more than I should, heh.

Still *need* a car seat and a breast pump (and a crib mattress, but that's less of a rush). More diapers too. And a diaper bag. I'll buy them all soon.

[Steve SFM]

It's so nice to see you all excited like this, Marla. :)

[Antigone]

I can't stop shopping! SOMEBODY STOP ME! ;)

The nursery furniture is simply gorgeous - and better furniture than I have ever owned for myself. (Have I shared the link before? www.babysdream.com - I can't say enough about how great this stuff is.) The crib will eventually become a full size bed, the dresser is...a dresser, and the changing table flips over to become another dresser. So if this kid doesn't use this furniture until she's 18 (or perhaps donate it to a future brother/sister) I will gladly take it! And Ms. "I don't think I'll decorate" has started to think "Hm, maybe I could" so today we did a DIY project that I think is adorable. I'll post pictures when it's all set. (I still don't have crib sheets or anything - got the mattress though! - but I have a sheet and crib skirt on the way from someone online...) (And then the kid is going to sleep in a co-sleeper with us for weeks or months...heh...)

And today we bought the car seat too. And right now I'm washing er...MORE DIAPERS. I think my newborn stash is now all set (except perhaps one or two more newborn covers) but that means NOTHING, now I am looking at all the cute fabrics and coveting them all. (Sumbuns! Lucy's Hope Chest! Other hyenacart ones! ErinDish gave me an SOS and now I want more of those too!)

Of course the baby needs more clothes - but my friend the superthrifterrockstar caught a sale at one of the smaller thrifts and apparently got me a ton of high-end outfits for 25 cents each. *twitch* And another friend gave me the Moby wrap I was coveting. (was I smart to ask for it in black? Probably not - but it's so damn cute!)

(Meanwhile my feet are huge, I'm exhausted all the time, and on Wednesday I have to take the subway to work, which always means I'll have to pee 15 minutes before I get there - if the subway even BEHAVES. At least now people give me their seats...Despite my hatred of driving, looks like I'm going to need a car, bah.)

I'm going to be a crazy mom. Watch out!

[Jezebelle]

Sounds like its all going pretty well, girl!

and ;l at "subway" but I get your drift :p

Its funny that your posts are all about what you've purchased and how ready you're getting and all mine are bitching and whining posts! I'm glad you're getting everything you need and want. Have you been to Crib-its yet?

[Antigone]

Aw, I whine. Plenty. I promise. ;) I just post that elsewhere, heh. I figure I'll just bore the forumz with my consumerist tendencies because damn, I've been buying a LOT of stuff. I could post the story of how I'm worried I'll be needing metal cutters to get my engagement and wedding rings off my bloaty fingers...

What's Crib-its? Do tell!

Ooooh, is it this: http://www.insiderpages.com/b/3713331409 ??? I HAVE TO GO THERE!

[Jezebelle]

You're still wearing your rings?! NO WAY! Mine have been safely locked up for several weeks now! I miss them, but they were way too uncomfortable.

[Antigone]

Yeah, I don't think I'm going to take the rings off after all. They're not uncomfortable, they just won't come off (I can move them around slightly...) - but since I never take them off anyway, I think it will be OK. I took a non-wedding-ring off a few weeks ago, just because. :)

In other, more consumerist news, hehe, yesterday I got a crib sheet and skirt in the mail from a person online. Brand new, in packaging, Land of Nod (good stuff!), and CHEAAAAP. Yay! And 6 diaper covers. And Sesame Street Old School Vol 1 on DVD (for the baby, of course...) and Babyrock: The Cure (N - I know you mentioned it a while back, I had also seen it before elsewhere, and just gave in and got one). But my diaper bag is delayed! Gr. I'm debating cancelling the order from Amazon and getting it direct from the vendor instead (and paying shipping, boo).

[Jezebelle]

oops

[Jezebelle]

I have like 5 friggin diaper bags. There is one in particular I'm not so fond of that is quilted and hand made. Not my style, but as a quilter - you might be into it. Interested?

[Antigone]

heh, I'm not a quilter ;) but thanks for the offer. (Oh you might want to edit your post because you could get in trouble if one of the mods sees that request, but I can do something for you even without trading for a diaper bag...) I'm going for a Diaper Dude bag that's solid black because my husband will carry it too (and apparently it's "shipping soon") but I also have one on my wishlist (same vendor) that is brown with pink skulls on it that I *really* want but that my husband will not carry, so I went with practical first and maybe someone else will buy me the silly one.

[Antigone]

At 36 weeks, I'm dilated ever so slightly and effaced about 50%. I'm also having complications *ahem* from the exam that told me this (it's not a routine exam my midwives give, it's a long story as to why I had it). I possibly am losing my plug or possibly it's just those lovely "complications." I don't feel like delving into TMI territory any further. ;)

Anyway, I'd like to go 38 weeks, so you know, good thoughts that she keeps baking in there just a wee bit longer, cool? I mean...I've got the second half of my birthing class to take! I've got my breastfeeding class next week! How will I do those things without classes? (I kid, I kid...but I also PAID for said classes, dammit!)

Pregnancy is freaky, man.

Also, a question - let's say a friend of yours not only told you she was buying you a present but also claimed it on your thingsiwant page. And said present would be extremely awesome with a newborn who may make her debut soon. And said person mentioned sending it soon, but it hasn't arrived. And said person is AWESOME AND WONDERFUL. Would you say something or just wait?

Still shopping, shopping, shopping (which is why the question above kind of came up - I would buy this item myself and not be mad about it...). I keep going to the various mei tai carrier sites but leaving without a purchase - I should figure that out soon though (it's the fabrics - so many choices! Want them all!). Got the diaper bag, bought an adorable wetbag at thegoodmama.com (fabulous site! amazing customer service!), car seat's installed, I'm...just...not...ready yet...

[designer130]

how exciting!!! i'm sure if you're little one came now, all would be fine. my BF had a preemie at 27 weeks *yikes* about 4 months ago and he's fine and thriving (although still small at this point). I thought 36 weeks was technically considered full term? I'm sure i'll learn more about it as i get further along.

I can't wait to shop for the wee one myself, but we're on a tight budget so I'm trying to find the big ticket stuff 2nd hand. So far I found a great glider that normally goes for 400$+ tax for 100$ *yippee*. And that's it so far.

good luck to you! I hope he stays in there another couple of weeks!

[Antigone]

Oh yes, she's technically full term, but I still have a few things to take care of in the next 2 weeks - and 38 weeks now seems to be the golden ring to reach for.

Craigslist and ebay can be your friends for great deals. And if you're into cloth diapering (which will save you lots of money in the long run but does require an initial layout of $) then diaperswappers.com is a great place to lurk.

[Steve SFM]

I hope she stays in for awhile if that's what you want, Marla. But she'll come when she comes.

And you ARE ready. :)

[designer130]

And if you're into cloth diapering (which will save you lots of money in the long run but does require an initial layout of $) then diaperswappers.com is a great place to lurk.

I'm totally going the cloth route, not just for the cash savings (which are soooooo amazing!!), but it's better for the environment too, which makes me happy. I'll check out that site for sure, thanks for the link. So far we're thinking of going with Motherease brand, I have yet to hear one negative review of their diapers, and they have affordable packages too.

Glad to hear she's technically term, so if she comes out all will be ok. Everything else, you can handle!

[chickentart]

Oh yes, she's technically full term, but I still have a few things to take care of in the next 2 weeks - and 38 weeks now seems to be the golden ring to reach for.

First babies often go a little longer than their due date... When I was in your position, I was counting the seconds and my due date came and went. She was 6 days late. Plus, it's good for them to marinate in there for all 40 weeks. :)

[Antigone]

Yeah, I know, but my midwife said I actually am a good candidate to go early with the dilation, effacing, cervix moving around, etc. :) Everything I've read says 37-40 weeks is ideal (with, of course, longer being better!) so I don't mind if she decides 38 weeks is good enough for her.

Happily, the practice won't bug me about induction at all until 42 weeks. So if she's late, that's OK too. I'm leaving work for maternity leave at 39 weeks (if she's not here yet) so worst case, I'll just clean the house (ah, nesting).

[chickentart]

ah, nesting. :D I miss it. I had a place for everything, and everything in it's place (or else) before Lucy, now it's a wonder I can find matching shoes.

i had a hard time enjoying this part of pregnancy, so hopefully you're having it easier than i did. i say, eat your ice cream and go on a date with your husband while you still can!

[Jezebelle]

Wow Marla - I'm actually completely ready for baby to come and am 8 days from my due date. But I'm not dilated and am only 50% effaced! They think I'll go past my due date.

However... at around 36/27 weeks, I thought I was gonna go. Those were not good weeks for me - my blood pressure was up and I was having lots of false labor. He started to drop, but then just sorta stayed there.

Just take a load off and get plenty of sleep. Thats what I did. I stopped all physical activity (including crazy cleaning, yoga, swimming..) and just rested. I bought a few books and sat in my bed alternating between sleeping and reading. After a few days of that, I felt much better.

Good luck girl - I'm thinking about you and sending good thoughts! [vibe]

[Antigone]

Wow Marla - I'm actually completely ready for baby to come and am 8 days from my due date. But I'm not dilated and am only 50% effaced! They think I'll go past my due date.


Hmm. OK I take it all back. Really. Because I too am 50% effaced and like barely 1 cm dilated. So *sigh* maybe I will be a 42-weeker. Watch this space! I'm learning, I'm learning! And like I said, totally NOT wanting her to come just yet anyway (not to say I'm not sick of being pregnant! I am!). I think the midwife got caught up in the moment when she thought my water had broken (it hadn't). In any case, I don't get any more cervical checks so I just have to go with it...


Just take a load off and get plenty of sleep.

I wish. I can't sleep at all these days!

8 days until your due date? GO Nancy!!!!!!! I'll be thinking good, easy labor vibes for you! [post75]

[Jezebelle]

In this heat?! Yeah, I'm not taking major deep sleeps but I can always crash for a few minutes.

which reminds me... our AC broke yesterday [bang] Doncha love life?! ;l

[Barbarella]

OMG! I.would.die.
Momma needs her AC!

Nesting sounds so exhausting to me right now. I'm sure it will kick in again soon.

[Antigone]

OK THAT is unacceptable. Get on the phone with the repairmen and your hormones and let them have it!!!!

Between peeing once an hour, leg cramps, leg pain, heartburn, and the worry about everything under the sun, I tend to get about a half hour of solid sleep every other hour...

[Jezebelle]

AC got fixed. In fact, I now have the best AC repair man in the area! The guy was fantastic! Came out within 2 hours and fixed it for under $100. The people I had arranged to come out wanted $60 just to show up and then $40 for every 15 minutes.

I get the sleep thing. I'm so sick of sleeping on my side. And yeah - why DO I have to pee more often during the night?! I'm shocked at the quantity of it, too... like at 4am. By then it would have been hours since I had anything to drink!

[BlogginBetty]

AC got fixed. In fact, I now have the best AC repair man in the area! The guy was fantastic! Came out within 2 hours and fixed it for under $100. The people I had arranged to come out wanted $60 just to show up and then $40 for every 15 minutes.

I get the sleep thing. I'm so sick of sleeping on my side. And yeah - why DO I have to pee more often during the night?! I'm shocked at the quantity of it, too... like at 4am. By then it would have been hours since I had anything to drink!
when i was pregnant they said by the second trimester baby would lift off my bladder a bit and ease up on the wizzing. NEVER happened! I woke up so much during the night to tinkle. By the last week I was pissing ever hour I swear!

What helped me a bit was to lean forward when I was peeing. It helps to empty your bladder better. My midwife told me that baby can lay on your bladder and trap some in there and when they move it will make you go.

[Antigone]

My wee update: baby is still head down, no clue when she'll show up (that one cervical check was an anomaly, I don't get any others), and I'm GBS positive dammit, so I have to get antibiotics. I'm already upping my yogurt intake AND bought probiotics recommended by my doula.

38 weeks and counting! My last day of work is next Friday!

PS Nobody answered my question from the last page, but my friend gave me my present whee!

[Barbarella]

I had to look up GBS. Good lord, don't pregnant women have enough to worry about!?!
Will you take another test before your due date?

[Antigone]

Not an option. If you test positive at any point in your pregnancy, you get the antibiotics at the hospital (unless you refuse them, which I won't). I'm not at all worried except about the actual antibiotics because I don't want thrush - but that's where all the yogurt eating and probiotic taking come in. :) It will be fine.

[Amy!]

I was wondering about you today, I'm waiting for the sequel thread...So it seems I'm not pregnant ;)

You're gonna do great.

[Jezebelle]

I'm GBS positive, too :)

I'm glad to hear she's all in position and ready to get going! How are you feeling?

[Antigone]

It seems like every