I believe this would be my final blog as a pregnant mom for Ava. It is currently 2/19/11 3.35am. Whenever you see an "@" sign below I am having a contraction and needed to stop typing for a minute or two.
The last few days/nights have been a little more crampy. 2 days ago I went in for my NST and ultrasound. You were still cute as a button - fat with chubby cheeks and big lips. You were breathing really well and moved your hands quite a bit. Eyes closed though, oh how I would love to see those eyes!
Yesterday night was rough. Woke up at 2am with bad cramps and some other *signs* that things are moving about in there. Yesterday was touch-and-go. Knew something was happening (@) but didn't know when or what. Had a pretty relaxed day - took a nap while your dad worked at home.
Then, before dinner, I started to have some intense cramping. It would come and go, and the cramps were enough that I'd have to stop what I was doing. We were eating suhsi and I swear, I would LOVE to have captured a photo of the face of the guy sitting in front of me at the sushi bar. He looked as a pale as a sheet, especially when I had to close my eyes because of the pain. Haha. After returning home, your dad and I watched a silly movie (silly to me, good to him) and then went to bed. The cramps then slowed down some and we were (@) disappointed that maybe this was another false alarm. I called my mother to tell her that maybe we were mistaken and we weren't in labor. But as soon as I said that, the contractions started again. Mom was laughing at me. We were still in business. : )
Your dad and I decided to go to bed and get some shut-eye so we can rest up for the big event. I slept 1 1/2 hours before awakening at 1am with intense pain and pressure in my lower abdomen. Contractions now have come and gone, each one lasting about 1-2 minutes and anywhere from 3-11 minutes apart.
Your father was very tired (he's not one who has much stamina without sleep) so I let him sleep as I pace about, occasionally moaning from the intensity of contractions. I was sleepy at first too, but as time went on I realized I cannot possibly stay in one place the whole time. So I googled "things to do in early labor". The article suggested packing my bags, baking, and watching a movie/TV.
So this is what your mother is doing right now: writing this blog, and baking chocolate chip cookies for the labor/delivery nurses we're going to see soon. I still have to figure out what to (@) do with the dog. Boarding doesn't open until 8am, and by then I think we will be in the thick of things. I think I will have to depend on my friends for this one.
So, that is all from me for now. Will blog more if I'm still around and capable. Otherwise, I'll see YOU on the flip-side birthday girl! ; )
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Friday, February 11, 2011
The Waiting Game
40 weeks and 1 day.
I know I'm only 1 day overdue, but it's become more and more apparent to me that you will come late. The tough part is, this is Day 5 of maternity leave. I am not used to sitting around and having all the time in the world to sit some more.
So far we've had more cramping, more discomfort. We did a biophysical profile on you 2 days ago and you had the biggest, fattest lips. Where did that come from? Very Angeline Jolie-like. : ) You looked great in there - the nurse poked your foot and you reacted with a toe flinch, you breathed and your ribs were going up and down, the cutest part was seeing you suckle. Getting ready there! You had the chubbiest cheeks too - Daddy and I can't wait to kiss them.
But I know you've got your own timetable, and there's got to be a reason why you're hanging on in there. Maybe I'm eating good food and you don't want to go to breast milk? Totally understand - I would too, peanut butter is just too tasty to give up. But trust me, the outside world is really cool too. For instance, your room is super cute and pretty, and the dog is pretty fun to play with too. Dad is pretty funny to watch, and your Mom is great at snuggling with. So don't be afraid, come on out and I promise you we'll have a good time. : )
I know I'm only 1 day overdue, but it's become more and more apparent to me that you will come late. The tough part is, this is Day 5 of maternity leave. I am not used to sitting around and having all the time in the world to sit some more.
So far we've had more cramping, more discomfort. We did a biophysical profile on you 2 days ago and you had the biggest, fattest lips. Where did that come from? Very Angeline Jolie-like. : ) You looked great in there - the nurse poked your foot and you reacted with a toe flinch, you breathed and your ribs were going up and down, the cutest part was seeing you suckle. Getting ready there! You had the chubbiest cheeks too - Daddy and I can't wait to kiss them.
But I know you've got your own timetable, and there's got to be a reason why you're hanging on in there. Maybe I'm eating good food and you don't want to go to breast milk? Totally understand - I would too, peanut butter is just too tasty to give up. But trust me, the outside world is really cool too. For instance, your room is super cute and pretty, and the dog is pretty fun to play with too. Dad is pretty funny to watch, and your Mom is great at snuggling with. So don't be afraid, come on out and I promise you we'll have a good time. : )
Monday, February 7, 2011
Top 10 tips I have for new Moms-to-be
I wanted to write this blog today just in case I pop in the next couple of days. I want to share with all of you the important jewels I've learned throughout my 9 month journey in pregnanthood. I know that most of you Moms-to-be have your own pregnancy books and manuals, but I'm going to cover things that aren't even remotely mentioned in those manuals. So here goes:
TIP #1: DO NOT LISTEN TO NEGATIVE PEOPLE I work with people on a constant basis as a physical therapist. Most mean well, but also most almost ALWAYS gives you a nightmare story of a friend's friend negative experiences of pregnancy and birth. I've heard pretty much all of them and it is the most irritating thing to sit and listen through. Though I have to admit that they got to me. Every week I go through a worry period of repeating those nightmare scenarios in my own pregnancy. Part of me doesn't want to mention it in this blog, but I feel like I have to write them here for all to see, not as a list of nightmare scenarios that could happen to you/me, but to lay them all out on the table so we can all see how negative and inconsiderate some people can get without even realizing it. I've contained it in a paragraphed line, so if you don't want to read the following, then please skip it. If you are pregnant and reading this, please concentrate on the positive and surround yourself with calm, positive people who remind you that everything will be fine.
____________________________________________
I have had numerous patients reiterate to me over and over again about how painful birth is. That it will be the most atrocious and gut-wrenching feeling anyone could go through. Now, I am not doubting them nor am I discounting them especially since I've never been through labor before, but I feel like their telling me how bad it's going to be distracts me from the true beauty of pregnancy and birth: to bring my daughter into the world. Labor is a feeling unlike any other, and it feels different from woman to woman. Yes it's intense, and everyone has their own experiences with it, but it doesn't have to be yours. If you're worried about labor, surround yourself with people who reassure you, "You will be just fine, and it will be amazing." I derive my calmness and strength from such people, and I am so appreciative of them.
As scarey as it may seem, people actually give me their stillborn stories. As yet, I have met NO ONE who has had this experience first-hand. And I meet A LOT of people at my job. These stories are always about a friend of a friend who knew of a friend who had an experience. These stories were enough to keep me awake at night feeling my belly for kicks and movement, freaking out when Ava is sleeping and silent. I have googled it on the internet so many times and have looked at so many statistical figures, wondering if I'm an unlucky one. I have wasted so much angst and effort in this stupidity that I resent meeting the women who told me these stories. I find them malicious and mean-spirited that they feel the need to share these things with a mother who already is submerged in a hormonal casserole. Shame on them. Please shun these people from your life (unless if your income derives from seeing them like me) and don't even talk to them anymore about your pregnancy.
____________________________________________________
TIP # 2: KNOW YOUR LIMITS. Your physical ones and your emotional ones.
Physically, my limit is very very far. I pride myself in being fit and strong and able to take on any physical task. So, I was still lifting 45 lb weights at work until my 8th month of pregnancy. By about the 9th month, my belly was too big and 45lbs was too much to carry so far away from my torso, so I dropped my limit to 30lbs. Also, I tried not to get down on the floor or bend over too much. I kneeled a lot when patients were on the floor doing exercises, or I used a rolling stool, always trying to keep my back straight. I'm proud to say that I haven't had any back pain during the day, and I think keeping active has helped with this. I am currently moving into my 40th week and I'm still walking the dog with Scott, twice a day. So please, just because you are pregnant, it doesn't mean you are incapacitated. You can still hike, swim, walk, exercise, lift weights so long as you feel fine doing those activities. Around the 6th month I started to get really winded on long hikes (>9 miles) and Scott and I had to drop them from our weekend agenda. Being pregnant, you don't lose your strength, you lose endurance.
I have heard of so many people going on bedrest or couchrest, becoming overly inactive and gaining gobs of weight. I may have different genetics, but I have to take pride in saying that I don't have cankles, I don't have a swollen face, and I don't have a tire around my waist. I have gained 36 lbs so far, which I know is on the higher end of medical recommendations, but I feel great. I might have gained fat from eating more than usual, but not so much that I feel I've "let go". So get up and move around a little ... or a lot. It's super healthy and keeps everything (blood sugar, pressure) in check.
I'd love to say that emotionally I had a handle on it too, but I think this is where I could have done better. There was a time in December in my 7th/8th month that I just couldn't take on any stress. Because I was physically very capable I equated that to being mentally and emotionally robust. But that wasn't the case. I was frustrated that I wasn't being treated differently by people around me, and I was annoyed by the fact that work was getting more and more hectic (I would see a patient every half hour, no aide, for 7 hours a day) and the physicality of rushing here and there was too much for my brain (and feet) to bare. Compound that with in-laws visiting for Christmas, and it all left me with little down time to rest and relax. I was an emotional wreck. I cried at my midwife's appointment, which I felt bad doing because she thought it was all my husband's fault. Truthfully, it was 99% my own fault. As much as people tell me to slow down, I couldn't bring myself to admitting that I wasn't the same Alice anymore. It took a few weeks for me to realize this and make a change in my mentaility. Accepting help from outside sources and admitting to onself that one is weak ... is a really tough thing to do. As a pregnant woman, I urge you to reflect on how you're doing in all aspects of your life, and make sure you communicate this to your hubby/partner. Tell him your worries about finances, your worries about work, your physical pains, and your sources of stress (as little as they may be) because I guarantee you that he will do everything in his power to make you feel better ... and don't be ashamed.
Tip #3: YOGA PANTS. My ultimate, favorite maternity wear is actually not a maternity garment at all - it's yoga pants. Surprisingly, as big as I am right now, I am still wearing them as I write this blog. Buy 3-4 pairs of foldover yoga pants in your regular pre-pregnancy size and make sure they have stretchy lycra in it. My favorite are those ordered from Victoria Secret catalog ($25 each). They're super versatile and comfy. Unfold the waistband and you have your ultimate maternity pants. Post-birth, you'd probably still wear them until you can fold them down again.
Tip #4: A GOOD BRA. Towards the later months of your pregnancy, get maternity bras that look like sports bras. Don't get ones with underwire, they plug up milk ducts and not only could it ruin breastfeeding later, but it's not very comfortable. I liked the bras that had a sports-back to it. That way I never have to worry about falling straps on my shoulders. Oh, also, wear a sports bra to bed - it keeps the sisters uppity and prevents them from going saggedy.
Tip #5: GO TO A BREATFEEDING CLASS. It was the most rewarding experience for me and Scott. We had signed up to this hippy breastfeeding class taught by a doula. We expected to be sitting in a circle all 2 hours, holding hands and chiming prayers to our breasts. But no such luck. Instead we ended up learning about all the misconceptions about breastfeeding newborns and babies. Contrary to what all of you think, it is not a very 'natural' thing to figure out. It is not a simple matter of nipple-to-mouth. Also, after questioning my mother-patients, a good 80% of them have had trouble breastfeeding and had to switch to formula. It is amazing to see how many people need education in this matter. Please take a class or two on this one. And take notes.
Tip #6: BABY BARGAINS. There's a book called "Baby Bargains" that has the top-rated baby consumer goods; updated every year. From brands of cribs, to diapers, to breastpumps, they keep budget and value in mind and weigh it all against quality and give recommendations on what to buy. We have folllowed this book pretty diligently, but I also heed warning that you DO NOT HAVE TO BUY EVERYTHING. One of the biggest tips I have is to wait to buy some items because you may never know what your baby prefers. We bought a bouncer, but didn't buy the swing. We also didn't buy a stroller. I know, some of you would be reading this and think that a stroller is probably one of the most important things to get. But frankly, I beg to differ. Growing up, I never had a stroller. Even into my toddler years, I was always held or walked with. In fact, it makes me laugh when I go to the zoo or museums and see these ginormous Hummer-sized strollers literally splitting the shins of anyone who comes near them. Absolutely ridiculous. Maybe I'll think differently later on, but I prefer to hold Ava to my chest and see her reactions to things. It's more interactive that way. With new baby things, it's easy to get carried away. You don't have to get new everything, you can go to consignment stores or take hand-me-downs from people to save a little dough (because God knows you're probably going to wipe out your bank account after she's born).
Safe to get used: Clothes, breastfeeding pillow (you can wash them), rocking chair, maternity clothes, plastic toys.
Need to get new: Car seats (they get dinged up a lot and need updates every year for safety), cribs (the drop-down sides of older models are a hazard), breastpumps.
TIP #7: AVOID HAZARDS. Especially walking in snow/ice. The plancenta is the most important part of your pregnant uterus. If it is knocked out of place (called placenta abruption), your baby is in trouble. This could happen with a fall, or with a rear-end car accident. Be careful. Also, no one ever mentioned this to me, but grocery stores are also very dangerous, especially on a Sunday. You've got massive amounts of people pushing huge heavy carts and not paying attention to where they're going because they're busy checking out the shelves. I have come close to several accidents myself with people ramming their carts into me. Another place to watch out is parking lots with people swinging open car doors unexpectedly. Always make sure you have some space around you and be aware of your surroundings.
TIP #8: NUTRITION. I know how hard it is to stick to the food pyramid. I definitely don't and sure I feel guilty about it, but I'm sorry - I'm human. But don't go overboard, I met a patient who gained (no joke) 100lbs during her pregnancy. Her boy is now 5 and she still looks pregnant. How did she do it? Fast food everyday. Make sure you eat something green everyday, even though you might not like it, your baby needs it. You will hear all sorts of stuff to eat and not to eat. Fish and shrimp are completely safe, so ignore those who say you can't eat it. In fact, that's where you can get those heart and brain healthy Omega 3's. Avoid shark, swordfish and tuna for its mercury content (does anyone actually eat those regularly??) but everything else is fair game. Here are some of my opinions about certain "good" and "bad" foods:
Sushi: Doctor's don't recommend it because they are raw. True, there is a certain risk of getting sick and having a GI problem which would reduce adequate nutrition to your baby ... but realistically, I have never gotten sick from eating sushi. In fact, all Japanese pregnant women eat sushi, and their kids turn out fine. I say bullocks to this and enjoy your spicy salmon roll.
Luncheon meat and refridgerated salads: Now this is one area where they have made significant research on. Refridgerated deli meats may contain a bacteria called Listerosis. To normal adults, we can fight this bacteria off and be totally fine. With a developing fetus, however, it could cause infections and cause you to have a stillborn. The chances of eating something with listerosis in it is rare in the US, but it sill happens on occasion. I have cheated once here and there on deli meats and refridgerated goods, but try not to have any in your 1st/2nd trimesters when development is still sensitive.
Caffeine: Ditto on above. Just think about how you're like with 3 cups of coffee in your system. Now imagine your brain 20X smaller but on the same dosage. You get the point. Again, I have cheated here and there on this, mostly on sodas. But I am learning as I progress to full-term that even Coke keeps me awake at night. The worst night I have had is one where I've only slept for 3 hours after sipping on some Coke. My workday SUCKED after that. Not smart. Try Sprite or Fanta if to curb your tastebuds.
Organic food: If you have the means to buy this everyday and still be able to afford your mortgage, 401K, IRA's, and baby's 529 plan, while having an 8 month emergency fund, then kudos to you: I am jealous and I wish I am you. Somehow, I really doubt that most people can do this and handle Whole Foods' grocery bills every week. Personally, my priorities are being financially stable than being completely toxin-free. It causes me more stress knowing that I have less of a retirement account than knowing I ate a nonorganic apple. Besides, I'm sure 99% of people in the developed world have grown up drinking from BPA-filled baby bottles, and most of us are still doing good. So chill, people.
Tip #9: YOU WILL KNOW IF YOU'RE IN LABOR. Throughout your pregnancy you're going to feel occasional crampy, tight, sharp, achy pains here and there. They're usually transient. Most of them are Braxton-Hicks contractions, and some of them are classified as "I don't know, just ignore them" pains. I obviously have not gotten in labor yet, but another mom reassured me I will KNOW when it happens. If you feel something odd and you wonder "is this it?" - it's not it. You will know with a definite fact that you are indeed in labor. But ... don't freak out. Everything will be just fine. Let your body go with it, cuss if you have to, scream if you have to, but it's all good - because you're going to have a baby in the end!
Tip #10: GET CONNECTED TO YOUR HUSBAND. Have sex, lots of it. Different positions, different games, different methods. Get super horny and lusty. Your hormones are running around like crazy and you have lots of bloodflow to areas of your body. I swear, pregnancy is the funnest time in the bedroom. Also, he will love it. And it will give you gobs of self-confidence knowing your husband still has the hots for your fat (and growing) ass. Most of all, connect with him. Talk to him about the baby, update him on milestones and doctor visits, have him feel your belly everytime your baby moves or kicks. Discuss your concerns and fears so he understands why you're trippin'. Your baby is the product of two of you, and even though he's not physically connected to her, she is in every part as much of him. Scott and I have grown so immensely close to each other throughout this pregnancy, and I love him and Ava all the more for it.
Hope this was helpful. : )
TIP #1: DO NOT LISTEN TO NEGATIVE PEOPLE I work with people on a constant basis as a physical therapist. Most mean well, but also most almost ALWAYS gives you a nightmare story of a friend's friend negative experiences of pregnancy and birth. I've heard pretty much all of them and it is the most irritating thing to sit and listen through. Though I have to admit that they got to me. Every week I go through a worry period of repeating those nightmare scenarios in my own pregnancy. Part of me doesn't want to mention it in this blog, but I feel like I have to write them here for all to see, not as a list of nightmare scenarios that could happen to you/me, but to lay them all out on the table so we can all see how negative and inconsiderate some people can get without even realizing it. I've contained it in a paragraphed line, so if you don't want to read the following, then please skip it. If you are pregnant and reading this, please concentrate on the positive and surround yourself with calm, positive people who remind you that everything will be fine.
____________________________________________
I have had numerous patients reiterate to me over and over again about how painful birth is. That it will be the most atrocious and gut-wrenching feeling anyone could go through. Now, I am not doubting them nor am I discounting them especially since I've never been through labor before, but I feel like their telling me how bad it's going to be distracts me from the true beauty of pregnancy and birth: to bring my daughter into the world. Labor is a feeling unlike any other, and it feels different from woman to woman. Yes it's intense, and everyone has their own experiences with it, but it doesn't have to be yours. If you're worried about labor, surround yourself with people who reassure you, "You will be just fine, and it will be amazing." I derive my calmness and strength from such people, and I am so appreciative of them.
As scarey as it may seem, people actually give me their stillborn stories. As yet, I have met NO ONE who has had this experience first-hand. And I meet A LOT of people at my job. These stories are always about a friend of a friend who knew of a friend who had an experience. These stories were enough to keep me awake at night feeling my belly for kicks and movement, freaking out when Ava is sleeping and silent. I have googled it on the internet so many times and have looked at so many statistical figures, wondering if I'm an unlucky one. I have wasted so much angst and effort in this stupidity that I resent meeting the women who told me these stories. I find them malicious and mean-spirited that they feel the need to share these things with a mother who already is submerged in a hormonal casserole. Shame on them. Please shun these people from your life (unless if your income derives from seeing them like me) and don't even talk to them anymore about your pregnancy.
____________________________________________________
TIP # 2: KNOW YOUR LIMITS. Your physical ones and your emotional ones.
Physically, my limit is very very far. I pride myself in being fit and strong and able to take on any physical task. So, I was still lifting 45 lb weights at work until my 8th month of pregnancy. By about the 9th month, my belly was too big and 45lbs was too much to carry so far away from my torso, so I dropped my limit to 30lbs. Also, I tried not to get down on the floor or bend over too much. I kneeled a lot when patients were on the floor doing exercises, or I used a rolling stool, always trying to keep my back straight. I'm proud to say that I haven't had any back pain during the day, and I think keeping active has helped with this. I am currently moving into my 40th week and I'm still walking the dog with Scott, twice a day. So please, just because you are pregnant, it doesn't mean you are incapacitated. You can still hike, swim, walk, exercise, lift weights so long as you feel fine doing those activities. Around the 6th month I started to get really winded on long hikes (>9 miles) and Scott and I had to drop them from our weekend agenda. Being pregnant, you don't lose your strength, you lose endurance.
I have heard of so many people going on bedrest or couchrest, becoming overly inactive and gaining gobs of weight. I may have different genetics, but I have to take pride in saying that I don't have cankles, I don't have a swollen face, and I don't have a tire around my waist. I have gained 36 lbs so far, which I know is on the higher end of medical recommendations, but I feel great. I might have gained fat from eating more than usual, but not so much that I feel I've "let go". So get up and move around a little ... or a lot. It's super healthy and keeps everything (blood sugar, pressure) in check.
I'd love to say that emotionally I had a handle on it too, but I think this is where I could have done better. There was a time in December in my 7th/8th month that I just couldn't take on any stress. Because I was physically very capable I equated that to being mentally and emotionally robust. But that wasn't the case. I was frustrated that I wasn't being treated differently by people around me, and I was annoyed by the fact that work was getting more and more hectic (I would see a patient every half hour, no aide, for 7 hours a day) and the physicality of rushing here and there was too much for my brain (and feet) to bare. Compound that with in-laws visiting for Christmas, and it all left me with little down time to rest and relax. I was an emotional wreck. I cried at my midwife's appointment, which I felt bad doing because she thought it was all my husband's fault. Truthfully, it was 99% my own fault. As much as people tell me to slow down, I couldn't bring myself to admitting that I wasn't the same Alice anymore. It took a few weeks for me to realize this and make a change in my mentaility. Accepting help from outside sources and admitting to onself that one is weak ... is a really tough thing to do. As a pregnant woman, I urge you to reflect on how you're doing in all aspects of your life, and make sure you communicate this to your hubby/partner. Tell him your worries about finances, your worries about work, your physical pains, and your sources of stress (as little as they may be) because I guarantee you that he will do everything in his power to make you feel better ... and don't be ashamed.
Tip #3: YOGA PANTS. My ultimate, favorite maternity wear is actually not a maternity garment at all - it's yoga pants. Surprisingly, as big as I am right now, I am still wearing them as I write this blog. Buy 3-4 pairs of foldover yoga pants in your regular pre-pregnancy size and make sure they have stretchy lycra in it. My favorite are those ordered from Victoria Secret catalog ($25 each). They're super versatile and comfy. Unfold the waistband and you have your ultimate maternity pants. Post-birth, you'd probably still wear them until you can fold them down again.
Tip #4: A GOOD BRA. Towards the later months of your pregnancy, get maternity bras that look like sports bras. Don't get ones with underwire, they plug up milk ducts and not only could it ruin breastfeeding later, but it's not very comfortable. I liked the bras that had a sports-back to it. That way I never have to worry about falling straps on my shoulders. Oh, also, wear a sports bra to bed - it keeps the sisters uppity and prevents them from going saggedy.
Tip #5: GO TO A BREATFEEDING CLASS. It was the most rewarding experience for me and Scott. We had signed up to this hippy breastfeeding class taught by a doula. We expected to be sitting in a circle all 2 hours, holding hands and chiming prayers to our breasts. But no such luck. Instead we ended up learning about all the misconceptions about breastfeeding newborns and babies. Contrary to what all of you think, it is not a very 'natural' thing to figure out. It is not a simple matter of nipple-to-mouth. Also, after questioning my mother-patients, a good 80% of them have had trouble breastfeeding and had to switch to formula. It is amazing to see how many people need education in this matter. Please take a class or two on this one. And take notes.
Tip #6: BABY BARGAINS. There's a book called "Baby Bargains" that has the top-rated baby consumer goods; updated every year. From brands of cribs, to diapers, to breastpumps, they keep budget and value in mind and weigh it all against quality and give recommendations on what to buy. We have folllowed this book pretty diligently, but I also heed warning that you DO NOT HAVE TO BUY EVERYTHING. One of the biggest tips I have is to wait to buy some items because you may never know what your baby prefers. We bought a bouncer, but didn't buy the swing. We also didn't buy a stroller. I know, some of you would be reading this and think that a stroller is probably one of the most important things to get. But frankly, I beg to differ. Growing up, I never had a stroller. Even into my toddler years, I was always held or walked with. In fact, it makes me laugh when I go to the zoo or museums and see these ginormous Hummer-sized strollers literally splitting the shins of anyone who comes near them. Absolutely ridiculous. Maybe I'll think differently later on, but I prefer to hold Ava to my chest and see her reactions to things. It's more interactive that way. With new baby things, it's easy to get carried away. You don't have to get new everything, you can go to consignment stores or take hand-me-downs from people to save a little dough (because God knows you're probably going to wipe out your bank account after she's born).
Safe to get used: Clothes, breastfeeding pillow (you can wash them), rocking chair, maternity clothes, plastic toys.
Need to get new: Car seats (they get dinged up a lot and need updates every year for safety), cribs (the drop-down sides of older models are a hazard), breastpumps.
TIP #7: AVOID HAZARDS. Especially walking in snow/ice. The plancenta is the most important part of your pregnant uterus. If it is knocked out of place (called placenta abruption), your baby is in trouble. This could happen with a fall, or with a rear-end car accident. Be careful. Also, no one ever mentioned this to me, but grocery stores are also very dangerous, especially on a Sunday. You've got massive amounts of people pushing huge heavy carts and not paying attention to where they're going because they're busy checking out the shelves. I have come close to several accidents myself with people ramming their carts into me. Another place to watch out is parking lots with people swinging open car doors unexpectedly. Always make sure you have some space around you and be aware of your surroundings.
TIP #8: NUTRITION. I know how hard it is to stick to the food pyramid. I definitely don't and sure I feel guilty about it, but I'm sorry - I'm human. But don't go overboard, I met a patient who gained (no joke) 100lbs during her pregnancy. Her boy is now 5 and she still looks pregnant. How did she do it? Fast food everyday. Make sure you eat something green everyday, even though you might not like it, your baby needs it. You will hear all sorts of stuff to eat and not to eat. Fish and shrimp are completely safe, so ignore those who say you can't eat it. In fact, that's where you can get those heart and brain healthy Omega 3's. Avoid shark, swordfish and tuna for its mercury content (does anyone actually eat those regularly??) but everything else is fair game. Here are some of my opinions about certain "good" and "bad" foods:
Sushi: Doctor's don't recommend it because they are raw. True, there is a certain risk of getting sick and having a GI problem which would reduce adequate nutrition to your baby ... but realistically, I have never gotten sick from eating sushi. In fact, all Japanese pregnant women eat sushi, and their kids turn out fine. I say bullocks to this and enjoy your spicy salmon roll.
Luncheon meat and refridgerated salads: Now this is one area where they have made significant research on. Refridgerated deli meats may contain a bacteria called Listerosis. To normal adults, we can fight this bacteria off and be totally fine. With a developing fetus, however, it could cause infections and cause you to have a stillborn. The chances of eating something with listerosis in it is rare in the US, but it sill happens on occasion. I have cheated once here and there on deli meats and refridgerated goods, but try not to have any in your 1st/2nd trimesters when development is still sensitive.
Caffeine: Ditto on above. Just think about how you're like with 3 cups of coffee in your system. Now imagine your brain 20X smaller but on the same dosage. You get the point. Again, I have cheated here and there on this, mostly on sodas. But I am learning as I progress to full-term that even Coke keeps me awake at night. The worst night I have had is one where I've only slept for 3 hours after sipping on some Coke. My workday SUCKED after that. Not smart. Try Sprite or Fanta if to curb your tastebuds.
Organic food: If you have the means to buy this everyday and still be able to afford your mortgage, 401K, IRA's, and baby's 529 plan, while having an 8 month emergency fund, then kudos to you: I am jealous and I wish I am you. Somehow, I really doubt that most people can do this and handle Whole Foods' grocery bills every week. Personally, my priorities are being financially stable than being completely toxin-free. It causes me more stress knowing that I have less of a retirement account than knowing I ate a nonorganic apple. Besides, I'm sure 99% of people in the developed world have grown up drinking from BPA-filled baby bottles, and most of us are still doing good. So chill, people.
Tip #9: YOU WILL KNOW IF YOU'RE IN LABOR. Throughout your pregnancy you're going to feel occasional crampy, tight, sharp, achy pains here and there. They're usually transient. Most of them are Braxton-Hicks contractions, and some of them are classified as "I don't know, just ignore them" pains. I obviously have not gotten in labor yet, but another mom reassured me I will KNOW when it happens. If you feel something odd and you wonder "is this it?" - it's not it. You will know with a definite fact that you are indeed in labor. But ... don't freak out. Everything will be just fine. Let your body go with it, cuss if you have to, scream if you have to, but it's all good - because you're going to have a baby in the end!
Tip #10: GET CONNECTED TO YOUR HUSBAND. Have sex, lots of it. Different positions, different games, different methods. Get super horny and lusty. Your hormones are running around like crazy and you have lots of bloodflow to areas of your body. I swear, pregnancy is the funnest time in the bedroom. Also, he will love it. And it will give you gobs of self-confidence knowing your husband still has the hots for your fat (and growing) ass. Most of all, connect with him. Talk to him about the baby, update him on milestones and doctor visits, have him feel your belly everytime your baby moves or kicks. Discuss your concerns and fears so he understands why you're trippin'. Your baby is the product of two of you, and even though he's not physically connected to her, she is in every part as much of him. Scott and I have grown so immensely close to each other throughout this pregnancy, and I love him and Ava all the more for it.
Hope this was helpful. : )
It's the Final Countdown!
It's the Final Countdown! Cue champion music. Hahaha....
Today I went for our 39th week midwife visit. Your head has descended down into my pelvis and our midwife, Helen can't even feel where your head is because it's so far tucked under. She said if you descend any lower, we'll be in labor!!
So far so good - I'm feeling fat, swollen, huge. More EXCITED to finally meet you - your Dad is super excited too. Everyone, including Aunty Susmitha and all your grandma's and grandpa Dave are waiting with bated breath. It's the first time that I get my sister Julie to pick up the phone on the first ring instead of going to voicemail.
It's also my last day of work! Woohoo!! Now officially my last few days having peace and quiet all to myself in the house ... that is, if you don't debut tonight or this weekend.....!!!
I just hope I don't get too bored.
Today I went for our 39th week midwife visit. Your head has descended down into my pelvis and our midwife, Helen can't even feel where your head is because it's so far tucked under. She said if you descend any lower, we'll be in labor!!
So far so good - I'm feeling fat, swollen, huge. More EXCITED to finally meet you - your Dad is super excited too. Everyone, including Aunty Susmitha and all your grandma's and grandpa Dave are waiting with bated breath. It's the first time that I get my sister Julie to pick up the phone on the first ring instead of going to voicemail.
It's also my last day of work! Woohoo!! Now officially my last few days having peace and quiet all to myself in the house ... that is, if you don't debut tonight or this weekend.....!!!
I just hope I don't get too bored.
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Updates from Sleepy Mom
I know I know, it has been forever that I've written anything about my pregnancy. Frankly speaking, my energy reserves has been so incredibly low that all I can muster these days is the bare minimum of peeing, eating and duties at work. So here's an all-around update of everything that has been on my pregger mind.
Forgetfulness Yes it has hit an all-time high. I wasn't aware that I opened up a checking accout in the beginning of December. When I started getting threats from Etrade that I need to put money in, my first reaction was "God these banks are desperate!" Dates just fly by and I have no concept of what happened when. 2 days ago seem just the same as 3 weeks ago. There HAS to be some kind of scientific research on this.
Irritability and HORMONES Hormones in capitals, yes. Goodness, my tolerance for BS is now less than an inch long. One small misstep and I really can't hold back my bark. On my long list of things that irritate me:
1) Not doing as I say. (Boy do I sound like a bitch)
2) People who think pregnancy doesn't hinder anything. i.e. when friends/patients/men who have never been pregnant ask "aren't you still running?" "aren't you still working out?" "let's go snowshoeing/icestaking/hiking/" I would LOVE to see you guys pregnant and do the same thing to you when you're 30 pounds heavier in the front and 9 months pregnant.
3) People who are on Organic binges and self-righteous pedestals (most Oregonians) who judge me for eating non-organic food. "You eat WHAT? Don't you care about your baby? Don't you care about her wellbeing?" In reply to them, yes bitches I do. Which is why I have more money in my bank account than you do. Let's see who can afford a better education AND the mortgage eh?
4) Feeling constipated and bloated, with heartburn. (And shut your yaps Organic-eating freaks, eating quinoa does NOT help with this)
5) Sarah Palin
6) Justin Bieber
7) Paramore
8) Why my DVR has not recorded a whole months' worth of Suze Orman
9) Whenever something falls on the ground and needs to be picked up. I simply cannot bend over anymore.
Nesting Yes it truly does exist and it ramps up during these last few weeks. I have been so incredibly anal-retentive about cleanliness than I ever have been. Closets need to be organized and alphabetized, counters need to be reflective, toilets need to be prestine and shiny, desks have to be clutter and dust-free, old stuff needs to be thrown away. (This is also your honey-do list, Scott : P)
The other side of hormones OK I know 100% of you don't want to hear about this, but your dad has been looking VERY attractive these days. Also, increased blood flow from pregnancy is a VERY VERY good thing. Just saying.
Dolly Parton-sized boobs, glowing skin, and thick shiny hair From the ribcage up, I look freakin' hot.
Crying, for all sorts of reasons All of these hormones and excitement for your arrival has left me in a blubbering mess when it comes to emotions. I can list the numerous commercials and shows I've watched that has left me reaching for Kleenex, but they are so numerous ("Despicable Me", "Hell's Kitchen", Pink's music videos to name a few) you might as well just name any type of media and I most likely have cried to it.
Biggest thing of all .... I am so extremely excited to meet you and hug you in my arms. I can't wait to see your little face and your little tiny hands and toes. Your first cry will be music to my ears. The first time you open your eyes to see Mom and Dad will be unforgettable. Oh gosh here I go, crying again ....
Forgetfulness Yes it has hit an all-time high. I wasn't aware that I opened up a checking accout in the beginning of December. When I started getting threats from Etrade that I need to put money in, my first reaction was "God these banks are desperate!" Dates just fly by and I have no concept of what happened when. 2 days ago seem just the same as 3 weeks ago. There HAS to be some kind of scientific research on this.
Irritability and HORMONES Hormones in capitals, yes. Goodness, my tolerance for BS is now less than an inch long. One small misstep and I really can't hold back my bark. On my long list of things that irritate me:
1) Not doing as I say. (Boy do I sound like a bitch)
2) People who think pregnancy doesn't hinder anything. i.e. when friends/patients/men who have never been pregnant ask "aren't you still running?" "aren't you still working out?" "let's go snowshoeing/icestaking/hiking/
3) People who are on Organic binges and self-righteous pedestals (most Oregonians) who judge me for eating non-organic food. "You eat WHAT? Don't you care about your baby? Don't you care about her wellbeing?" In reply to them, yes bitches I do. Which is why I have more money in my bank account than you do. Let's see who can afford a better education AND the mortgage eh?
4) Feeling constipated and bloated, with heartburn. (And shut your yaps Organic-eating freaks, eating quinoa does NOT help with this)
5) Sarah Palin
6) Justin Bieber
7) Paramore
8) Why my DVR has not recorded a whole months' worth of Suze Orman
9) Whenever something falls on the ground and needs to be picked up. I simply cannot bend over anymore.
Nesting Yes it truly does exist and it ramps up during these last few weeks. I have been so incredibly anal-retentive about cleanliness than I ever have been. Closets need to be organized and alphabetized, counters need to be reflective, toilets need to be prestine and shiny, desks have to be clutter and dust-free, old stuff needs to be thrown away. (This is also your honey-do list, Scott : P)
The other side of hormones OK I know 100% of you don't want to hear about this, but your dad has been looking VERY attractive these days. Also, increased blood flow from pregnancy is a VERY VERY good thing. Just saying.
Dolly Parton-sized boobs, glowing skin, and thick shiny hair From the ribcage up, I look freakin' hot.
Crying, for all sorts of reasons All of these hormones and excitement for your arrival has left me in a blubbering mess when it comes to emotions. I can list the numerous commercials and shows I've watched that has left me reaching for Kleenex, but they are so numerous ("Despicable Me", "Hell's Kitchen", Pink's music videos to name a few) you might as well just name any type of media and I most likely have cried to it.
Biggest thing of all .... I am so extremely excited to meet you and hug you in my arms. I can't wait to see your little face and your little tiny hands and toes. Your first cry will be music to my ears. The first time you open your eyes to see Mom and Dad will be unforgettable. Oh gosh here I go, crying again ....
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Snowman
I was looking through a fashion magazine this morning and came upon an article about best jeans for which body type (pre/postpregnancy of course). There were 3 I qualified for, so I asked your father "Am I curvy, hippy or busty?" and he said, "I think you're curvy." He could have stopped there but he proceeded to say, "You're kind of like a snowman," gesturing with his hands, "you have the bottom base, then the middle circle, then the top". Wow. I think a little part of me died right there.
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