So I called my doctor's office to ask for a letter saying I will need 6 weeks off work to recover from giving birth. They said no problem. Yay! This means I can apply for the voluntary leave transfer program. If people donate leave to me then I will be able to take off more time when the baby comes and still get paid for it. It doesn't mean I will get a lot of leave donated, but I can at least apply.
While I had them on the phone I asked for my gestational diabetes test results. And they were normal! Woo hoo! I had a cookie to celebrate!
Friday, December 28, 2007
28 weeks
Sorry I'm a little late on the update for what happens at 28 weeks. I have a little bit of a cold so I went to bed early last night instead of doing an update. I did whine to M over the phone that because he is away and I am here my whining results in even less service than usual. I have to get up and get my own OJ if I want some.
I get the results of my gestational diabetes test later today, so the OJ I drank for its healing powers this morning may be my last for quite a few months to come...
I'm also now up to seeing the doctor every 2 weeks to make sure Max is growing well.
I only got up twice in the night last night and got woken up two other times for leg cramps. All in all it was a pretty good night's sleep for me. I could still easily crawl under my desk and sleep for a couple of hours if it was allowed... :)
Max does seem to have a few personality traits showing through. He still loves to be in the shower. And he seems to be a morning person. Now that M is away he isn't waking up to his alarm clock. He sometimes wakes up when I do, and sometimes doesn't wake up until I am in the shower. He's been pretty active this week due to the sugar in the diabetes test and the sugar in the OJ. He seems to love sugar just as much as any other kids. :)
And here's the scoop on 28 weeks:
http://www.babycenter.com/6_your-pregnancy-28-weeks_1117.bc
How your baby's growing:
By this week, your baby weighs two and a quarter pounds (like a Chinese cabbage) and measures 14.8 inches from the top of her head to her heels. She can blink her eyes, which now sport lashes. With her eyesight developing, she may be able to see the light that filters in through your womb. She's also developing billions of neurons in her brain and adding more body fat in preparation for life in the outside world.
http://www.childbirthconnection.org/article.asp?ck=10241
By your 28th week of pregnancy, your baby is about 16 inches long and weighs 3-1/2 to 4 pounds. The skin is wrinkled but will become less so as more subcutaneous fat, the layer of fat just under the skin, is laid down in the next few weeks. Fine downy hair, called lanugo, and a waxy white protective substance covering the skin, called vernix, are present on the baby's body. The baby's eyes are open. The eyebrows and eyelashes were formed in the fourth month. The baby sucks its thumb and its taste buds have developed. The baby kicks, stretches, and moves frequently in the uterus. These movements, which are readily observable to others, are often keenly felt by the mother. Some mothers may find that the pressure of the growing uterus against the stomach by this week causes heartburn. The fundus, the top of the uterus, is now about one-third of the distance between the umbilicus (bellybutton) and the xiphoid cartilage. Constipation may also occur due to uterine pressure on the lower colon, as well as hormonal slowing of peristalsis (the process of excreting waste). Uterine growth combined with increased maternal weight gain contribute to a recurrence of fatigue similar to that during the early weeks of pregnancy.
By the 28th week, changes in the breasts prepare them for lactation. First colostrum, then milk, is produced by the grape-like clusters of tiny sacs (alveoli) deep within the breast tissue. Clusters of alveoli form lobules, which consolidate to form 15 to 20 lobes. Each lobe connects to a lactiferous duct. As the ducts extend toward the nipple and areolar areas, they widen into the lactiferous sinuses. These sinuses (or milk pools) release the milk through 15 to 20 tiny nipple openings when the baby nurses.The baby's organs and systems are quite well developed by the 28th week of pregnancy. If born now, the baby would probably survive but would need intensive, specialized care. The final two months of gestation are important for further maturation of all body systems and organs. Full term gestation best prepares the baby for a smooth and healthy adjustment to life outside of your uterus.
http://www.3dpregnancy.com/calendar/28-weeks-pregnant.html
(this site has a cool [and not gross] rotatable image. the cheese and hair are not shown)
Your baby has reached the magical mark of 28 weeks. The proportion of head to body is correct and if he were to be born now, he would be completely developed except for the extra fat that keeps him warm outside of the womb. That does not mean that all of his organs are working that well. It is also not very pleasant for him to have to trade in his warm nest for that scary incubator. He is still really small and vulnerable: he's just over a foot long (35 centimeters) and he weighs approximately 2 pounds (900 grams). For this reason, it's better if he stays nicely in your abdomen for now so that he can grow further.
The skeleton of your baby is changing. The cartilage is slowly ossifying into firm bones. The ossification continues until his birth. The skull bones remain the softest so that the skull can compress enough to slip gently through the pelvis and birth canal. Typically, boys will be about 2.2 to 2.6 pounds and girls will weigh between 2 and 2.4 pounds at 28 weeks gestational age.
Your child will develop more and more of an individuality and personality of his own. If this is your second or third child, perhaps you can already feel a difference from the previous pregnancies. This one might be very busy whereas the previous baby sat quietly in your abdomen. Each pregnancy and each baby is unique.
I get the results of my gestational diabetes test later today, so the OJ I drank for its healing powers this morning may be my last for quite a few months to come...
I'm also now up to seeing the doctor every 2 weeks to make sure Max is growing well.
I only got up twice in the night last night and got woken up two other times for leg cramps. All in all it was a pretty good night's sleep for me. I could still easily crawl under my desk and sleep for a couple of hours if it was allowed... :)
Max does seem to have a few personality traits showing through. He still loves to be in the shower. And he seems to be a morning person. Now that M is away he isn't waking up to his alarm clock. He sometimes wakes up when I do, and sometimes doesn't wake up until I am in the shower. He's been pretty active this week due to the sugar in the diabetes test and the sugar in the OJ. He seems to love sugar just as much as any other kids. :)
And here's the scoop on 28 weeks:
http://www.babycenter.com/6_your-pregnancy-28-weeks_1117.bc
How your baby's growing:
By this week, your baby weighs two and a quarter pounds (like a Chinese cabbage) and measures 14.8 inches from the top of her head to her heels. She can blink her eyes, which now sport lashes. With her eyesight developing, she may be able to see the light that filters in through your womb. She's also developing billions of neurons in her brain and adding more body fat in preparation for life in the outside world.
http://www.childbirthconnection.org/article.asp?ck=10241
By your 28th week of pregnancy, your baby is about 16 inches long and weighs 3-1/2 to 4 pounds. The skin is wrinkled but will become less so as more subcutaneous fat, the layer of fat just under the skin, is laid down in the next few weeks. Fine downy hair, called lanugo, and a waxy white protective substance covering the skin, called vernix, are present on the baby's body. The baby's eyes are open. The eyebrows and eyelashes were formed in the fourth month. The baby sucks its thumb and its taste buds have developed. The baby kicks, stretches, and moves frequently in the uterus. These movements, which are readily observable to others, are often keenly felt by the mother. Some mothers may find that the pressure of the growing uterus against the stomach by this week causes heartburn. The fundus, the top of the uterus, is now about one-third of the distance between the umbilicus (bellybutton) and the xiphoid cartilage. Constipation may also occur due to uterine pressure on the lower colon, as well as hormonal slowing of peristalsis (the process of excreting waste). Uterine growth combined with increased maternal weight gain contribute to a recurrence of fatigue similar to that during the early weeks of pregnancy.
By the 28th week, changes in the breasts prepare them for lactation. First colostrum, then milk, is produced by the grape-like clusters of tiny sacs (alveoli) deep within the breast tissue. Clusters of alveoli form lobules, which consolidate to form 15 to 20 lobes. Each lobe connects to a lactiferous duct. As the ducts extend toward the nipple and areolar areas, they widen into the lactiferous sinuses. These sinuses (or milk pools) release the milk through 15 to 20 tiny nipple openings when the baby nurses.The baby's organs and systems are quite well developed by the 28th week of pregnancy. If born now, the baby would probably survive but would need intensive, specialized care. The final two months of gestation are important for further maturation of all body systems and organs. Full term gestation best prepares the baby for a smooth and healthy adjustment to life outside of your uterus.
http://www.3dpregnancy.com/calendar/28-weeks-pregnant.html
(this site has a cool [and not gross] rotatable image. the cheese and hair are not shown)
Your baby has reached the magical mark of 28 weeks. The proportion of head to body is correct and if he were to be born now, he would be completely developed except for the extra fat that keeps him warm outside of the womb. That does not mean that all of his organs are working that well. It is also not very pleasant for him to have to trade in his warm nest for that scary incubator. He is still really small and vulnerable: he's just over a foot long (35 centimeters) and he weighs approximately 2 pounds (900 grams). For this reason, it's better if he stays nicely in your abdomen for now so that he can grow further.
The skeleton of your baby is changing. The cartilage is slowly ossifying into firm bones. The ossification continues until his birth. The skull bones remain the softest so that the skull can compress enough to slip gently through the pelvis and birth canal. Typically, boys will be about 2.2 to 2.6 pounds and girls will weigh between 2 and 2.4 pounds at 28 weeks gestational age.
Your child will develop more and more of an individuality and personality of his own. If this is your second or third child, perhaps you can already feel a difference from the previous pregnancies. This one might be very busy whereas the previous baby sat quietly in your abdomen. Each pregnancy and each baby is unique.
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
28 Week Checkup
I'm just 27 weeks and 6 days today, but I had the checkup today. I had the 3 hour glucose test with a midwife visit in the middle. The test was more horrible than last time and I felt a lot sicker after drinking the stuff. Ugh. I am so glad that it is over. I get the results back on Friday. They won't call if the results are good but they suggested I call to get the results either way.
The baby's heartbeat was good and he was measuring at 28 weeks. I also had my blood pressure checked and it was just fine. That's a big relief.
I am up a total of 7 pounds. So one pound less than last week.
I didn't get to eat breakfast before the test and I have been feeling extra hungry all day because of it. Even after my delicious dinner of baked beans on toast with cheddar cheese on top, I needed more. So I made some peanut butter balls. Mmmm. Protein is good. Mmmm.
The baby's heartbeat was good and he was measuring at 28 weeks. I also had my blood pressure checked and it was just fine. That's a big relief.
I am up a total of 7 pounds. So one pound less than last week.
I didn't get to eat breakfast before the test and I have been feeling extra hungry all day because of it. Even after my delicious dinner of baked beans on toast with cheddar cheese on top, I needed more. So I made some peanut butter balls. Mmmm. Protein is good. Mmmm.
Friday, December 21, 2007
My Baby is the Best Baby Ever
Yesterday I post about how it now possible for the baby to have hiccoughs. And he responds by showing me just what that will feel like. I was at J's class Mexican Fiesta helping to make God's Eyes out of yarn and popsicle sticks when I felt the new sensation of Max having the hiccoughs. It is definitely weird but still pretty cool. :)
Last night Max was also nice enough to give me a pair of kicks with a slight pause in between so Mark was able to feel him kicking. Max seems to almost always kick in one location, take a quick break, and then kick again in the same place. Maybe he's got a little bit of genetic OCD forming already...
Last night Max was also nice enough to give me a pair of kicks with a slight pause in between so Mark was able to feel him kicking. Max seems to almost always kick in one location, take a quick break, and then kick again in the same place. Maybe he's got a little bit of genetic OCD forming already...
Thursday, December 20, 2007
27 Weeks - Third Trimester (aka cauliflower with dreams)
I'm still up the 8 pounds from earlier this week. No massive gain over last week so I am pleased. Max is still very active and kicks around a fair bit. Nothing too extreme or obvious from the outside. Sleep is still a mystery for me. I spent large amounts of time in my bed at night wishing for sleep but not very much time actually sleeping. I'm hoping to catch up some over the weekend.
So far no sign of the baby hiccoughs I hear can start this week. Just his normal couple of kicks in any location followed by a pause and then a couple of kicks somewhere else. I have my gestational diabetes test next Wednesday (the day after Xmas, what was I thinking? oh yeh, that it was the only day M was still in town and could come and get me at the doctor's office if needed) and I'm really hoping that comes back ok.
Here's the 27 week update:
http://www.babycenter.com/6_your-pregnancy-27-weeks_1116.bc
So far no sign of the baby hiccoughs I hear can start this week. Just his normal couple of kicks in any location followed by a pause and then a couple of kicks somewhere else. I have my gestational diabetes test next Wednesday (the day after Xmas, what was I thinking? oh yeh, that it was the only day M was still in town and could come and get me at the doctor's office if needed) and I'm really hoping that comes back ok.
Here's the 27 week update:
http://www.babycenter.com/6_your-pregnancy-27-weeks_1116.bc
This week your baby weighs almost 2 pounds (like a head of cauliflower) and is about 14.4 inches long with his legs extended. He can now open and close his eyes, and he sleeps and wakes at regular intervals. He may suck his fingers, and although his lungs are still immature, they would be capable of functioning — with assistance — if he were to be born prematurely. Chalk up any rhythmic movement you may be feeling to a case of baby hiccups, which may be common from now on. Each episode usually lasts only a few moments, and isn't bothersome to him, so enjoy the tickle. With more brain tissue developing, your baby's brain is very active now. Wonder what he's thinking?
http://www.maternityandbabyshoppingmart.com/pregnancy_week_27.html
By pregnancy week 27 your baby is over 2 pounds and is almost 15 inches long! That's quite large considering your baby's original size was smaller than a grain of rice! Your baby is now perfectly formed, though she still has a lot of growing to do in the upcoming weeks.
During pregnancy week 27 your baby's internal organs and systems continue to grow, mature and develop. Most noticeably, around pregnancy 27 weeks your baby's eyelids will open. Up until this point in time they were fused together. Around pregnancy week 27 and 28 they finally open. During this time the retina of the eye also starts maturing, allowing your baby's eyes to finally receive light and translate images.
You may start noticing around this time your energy starts dropping. While most women enjoy a pleasant energy spurt during the middle of the second trimester, this often fades as they approach the third trimester. Remember as you are entering your third trimester, your body is working very hard to complete its masterpiece... creation of a new life! This takes a lot of energy, so it makes sense you'd feel a bit tired.
http://www.babycentre.co.uk/pregnancy/fetaldevelopment/27weeks/
Your baby now weighs nearly 2 pounds/ 875 grams and measures 14.5 inches/ 36.6 centimetres from head to toe. Her eyes open and close, she sleeps and wakes at regular intervals and she may suck a finger or thumb.
Sweet dreams, little baby! Some experts believe that babies begin to dream by the 28th week. What do they dream about? No one knows for certain but the brain is active this week as well. The characteristic grooves on the brain's surface start to appear and more brain tissue develops. Chalk up any rhythmic movement you may be feeling to a case of the hiccups, which are common this week and throughout the pregnancy. Your baby has them but is breathing in amniotic fluid rather than air. A paper bag can't cure her hiccups, obviously, but an episode usually lasts only momentarily. The sensation for you may be strange but not unpleasant.
*************************
And although there is no reason whatsoever to think I would have a premature baby, it is nice to know that the March of Dimes gives the baby a 90-95% chance of survival after this week...
http://www.marchofdimes.com/professionals/14332_1157.asp
What about babies born at 28 to 31 weeks gestation?
These babies look quite similar to babies born earlier, although they are larger (usually between 2 and 4 pounds) and even more likely to survive (about 90 to 95 percent).
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Active Kicker!
So last night I went to bed with a book, like I always do. I have learned that I cannot rest the book on my tummy because Max doesn't like it. So I was sitting, somewhat upright to avoid heartburn, but somewhat slouched down to aid falling asleep. I had the book in my hands around the middle of my belly. And Max kicked so hard I was actually able to see it from the outside instead of just feeling it. A first! I went downstairs to tell Mark that I thought Max was trying to wish him a happy birthday, but apparently Max wore himself out with the strength of that kick...
Thanks to everyone who provided some heartburn tips. Tums and chewing gum are seeming to help a lot. I have also eliminated seltzer water since that seemed to be triggering heartburn regularly. Mark rejected my heartburn elimination strategy of eating a dozen holiday cookies, so luckily the tums and chewing gum options are doing the trick.
Thanks to everyone who provided some heartburn tips. Tums and chewing gum are seeming to help a lot. I have also eliminated seltzer water since that seemed to be triggering heartburn regularly. Mark rejected my heartburn elimination strategy of eating a dozen holiday cookies, so luckily the tums and chewing gum options are doing the trick.
Monday, December 17, 2007
The switchover has occured
Mark and I weighed ourselves today. I now weigh more than he does. I'm up a total of 8 pounds. Not so bad over 6 months. But that's 4 pounds in 2 weeks after 4 pounds in 24 weeks. :) I did the elliptical machine and the bowflex today. At this point it looks like weight gain is going to happen and the best I can do is try to eat food with positive nutritional value and exercise to increase my chances of having the stamina I need at birthing time... Happily Krista also gave me a big book full of exercises to try. So in addition to doing what I can with the elliptical and the bowflex I can also do some targeted activities for the baby and the impact he is having on my body...
Thursday, December 13, 2007
26 weeks
The last week of my second trimester. I'm up a total of 7 pounds now. Quite the gain from last week, but totally fine overall. And we did have my office holiday party yesterday. Funny enough, eating a ton of cookies during the day resulted in no heartburn at night. I wonder if there is really a connection and if I can justify a diet that consists mostly of cookies and candy. :) I'm going to guess no, but it is a nice fantasy for a moment. I saw online that most people are in the 20-23 pounds gained range at this point so I don't feel so upset at going from 4 pounds to 7 pounds.
The lack of sleep really seems to be getting to me. Last night I had a dream that I slept until 8.45am. That meant Julian was late for school, but I felt good about the uninterrupted sleeping. It was, of course, just a dream. I woke up before my alarm to find the cat snuggled closely up against me and Max. This is highly unusual behaviour for Chloe who tends to sleep at my feet, at Mark's feet, or in the middle of the bed down where our feet go.
During this week I also had some fine moments such as pouring water over the Christmas presents because I was unable to focus enough to control both sides of my body independently. I also announced in a meeting with all of the managers that something was going to take 9 months instead of 90 days. They were all laughing and I didn't know why. My boss clued me in to my mis-statement and one of my work buddies chimed in to mention that it was really 10 months. :) During our holiday party she also mentioned the Amby Baby Hammock and said it is a fantastic thing that helps to mimic the feeling of being in the womb. If anyone knows anything about it, let me know. We are definitely looking into it...
My knitting friend Tammi (expecting twins around the same time we are expecting Max) sent us a big box of goodies for the baby. She included the Baby Einstein Baby Beethoven/Bach double cd so I have been playing that when I am in the kitchen. The kids seem to like it. And the theory is that now Max can hear it, he should equate the sound of the music to the relaxing feeling of being in the womb. If nothing else I am enjoying it and finding it relaxing for myself. Much better than the sound of Dora the Explorer. :) Julian did ask me yesterday if Max would feel relaxed if he was playing his Queen Greatest Hits cd. I said not so much.
And here's the updates for week 26...
http://www.maternityandbabyshoppingmart.com/pregnancy_week_26.html
Your Baby's Growth and Development
By pregnancy week 26 your baby may be 12 inches long and weigh closer to two pounds! Your baby's heart is working diligently at pumping blood.
By around 26 weeks pregnant your baby is still practicing many things including breathing. Boy babies sometimes experience a growth spurt around 26 weeks pregnant, when their testicles start descending into their scrotum. This entire process only takes a couple of days.
http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com/pregnancy_week_26.htm
How Big is the Baby at 26 Weeks Pregnant?Your baby has put on quite a bit of weight by pregnancy week 26 and is now a whopping 2 pounds (almost). Your baby's crown-to-rump length is about 9-10 inches long, and her total length is about 12 inches during pregnancy 26 weeks! Your baby is now starting to add a little fat to her bones, though she won't start accumulating too much fat until the last few weeks of pregnancy.
Your baby's heart continues to grow and develop during pregnancy at 26 weeks.
In addition to organ maturation throughout the body, your baby's nerve pathways in her ears continue to develop during pregnancy 26 weeks which will allow your baby to respond to sounds more consistently. You might notice your baby jumping more often now to loud noises when you are 26 weeks pregnant. This is a good time to start playing some relaxing music to your little one when you have the chance. Some parents even enjoy reading to their babies during this time. If you haven't considered it, have your partner read to your belly. This will help your baby become more acclimated to the sound of your partner's voice. Believe it or not, one of the first things babies recognize outside the womb besides smell is the sound of your voice, and your partner's voice.
Your baby will continue breathing in amniotic fluid after twenty six weeks pregnant and beyond. Boy babies usually experience a bit of growth during this week, as their testicles begin to descend into the scrotum. This process typically takes between two and three days to complete.
The lack of sleep really seems to be getting to me. Last night I had a dream that I slept until 8.45am. That meant Julian was late for school, but I felt good about the uninterrupted sleeping. It was, of course, just a dream. I woke up before my alarm to find the cat snuggled closely up against me and Max. This is highly unusual behaviour for Chloe who tends to sleep at my feet, at Mark's feet, or in the middle of the bed down where our feet go.
During this week I also had some fine moments such as pouring water over the Christmas presents because I was unable to focus enough to control both sides of my body independently. I also announced in a meeting with all of the managers that something was going to take 9 months instead of 90 days. They were all laughing and I didn't know why. My boss clued me in to my mis-statement and one of my work buddies chimed in to mention that it was really 10 months. :) During our holiday party she also mentioned the Amby Baby Hammock and said it is a fantastic thing that helps to mimic the feeling of being in the womb. If anyone knows anything about it, let me know. We are definitely looking into it...
My knitting friend Tammi (expecting twins around the same time we are expecting Max) sent us a big box of goodies for the baby. She included the Baby Einstein Baby Beethoven/Bach double cd so I have been playing that when I am in the kitchen. The kids seem to like it. And the theory is that now Max can hear it, he should equate the sound of the music to the relaxing feeling of being in the womb. If nothing else I am enjoying it and finding it relaxing for myself. Much better than the sound of Dora the Explorer. :) Julian did ask me yesterday if Max would feel relaxed if he was playing his Queen Greatest Hits cd. I said not so much.
And here's the updates for week 26...
http://www.maternityandbabyshoppingmart.com/pregnancy_week_26.html
Your Baby's Growth and Development
By pregnancy week 26 your baby may be 12 inches long and weigh closer to two pounds! Your baby's heart is working diligently at pumping blood.
By around 26 weeks pregnant your baby is still practicing many things including breathing. Boy babies sometimes experience a growth spurt around 26 weeks pregnant, when their testicles start descending into their scrotum. This entire process only takes a couple of days.
http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com/pregnancy_week_26.htm
How Big is the Baby at 26 Weeks Pregnant?Your baby has put on quite a bit of weight by pregnancy week 26 and is now a whopping 2 pounds (almost). Your baby's crown-to-rump length is about 9-10 inches long, and her total length is about 12 inches during pregnancy 26 weeks! Your baby is now starting to add a little fat to her bones, though she won't start accumulating too much fat until the last few weeks of pregnancy.
Your baby's heart continues to grow and develop during pregnancy at 26 weeks.
In addition to organ maturation throughout the body, your baby's nerve pathways in her ears continue to develop during pregnancy 26 weeks which will allow your baby to respond to sounds more consistently. You might notice your baby jumping more often now to loud noises when you are 26 weeks pregnant. This is a good time to start playing some relaxing music to your little one when you have the chance. Some parents even enjoy reading to their babies during this time. If you haven't considered it, have your partner read to your belly. This will help your baby become more acclimated to the sound of your partner's voice. Believe it or not, one of the first things babies recognize outside the womb besides smell is the sound of your voice, and your partner's voice.
Your baby will continue breathing in amniotic fluid after twenty six weeks pregnant and beyond. Boy babies usually experience a bit of growth during this week, as their testicles begin to descend into the scrotum. This process typically takes between two and three days to complete.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
25 Weeks - Rutabaga!!
All seems to be going well...
Max was pretty active yesterday. Mark thinks maybe he was excited about the snow like the external kids, and the only way Max could demonstrate his excitment was by jumping around and crushing my innards. Thanks Max.
I had a check up yesterday morning. All is well. Max is measuring 25 weeks. His heartbeat is strong and normal. My blood pressure was up a little but they said it was normal to have a slight increase given the increase in my blood volume. I was also able to get some new vitamins so that I don't have to take the horrible fishy ones.
Many thanks to Krista for some great books on pregnancy and getting ready for birth. And repeated thanks to Krista, Jenn, and Niki for almost all of my clothes. Having
And here's the info on 25 weeks...
http://www.babycenter.com/6_your-pregnancy-25-weeks_1114.bc
How your baby's growing:Head to heels, your baby now measures about 13 1/2 inches. His weight — a pound and a half — isn't much more than an average rutabaga, but he's beginning to exchange his long, lean look for some baby fat. As he does, his wrinkled skin will begin to smooth out and he'll start to look more and more like a newborn. His hair is probably recognizable now (in color and texture), although both may change after he's born.
http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com/pregnancy_week_25.htm
Your baby is continuing to mature during pregnancy week 25 and for the next several weeks. The structures that form the spine start to form around pregnancy at 25 weeks, and blood vessels in the lungs continue to develop this week. Other things that are shaping up during pregnancy at 25 weeks include our baby's nostrils, which may open up by the end of this week.
Your baby is starting to put on just a little meat, and will continue filling out as your pregnancy progresses.
http://www.smartmomma.com/pregnancy/weekly_fetal_dev_25.htm
Your baby is now 1 ½ pounds, with a length of about 13 ½ inches. His wrinkly skin is soon going to be a thing of the past, as he begins to accumulate fat deposits. Before you know it, he will be a plump newborn. If you were to look inside, you would see that your baby’s hair has formed in texture and color. He may or may not lose that hair after he is born. Some babies lose their hair and grow new hair, maybe even a different color.
The spine is strengthening this week, as the joints, ligaments, and rings form to protect the spinal cord from any injury. The blood vessels in the lungs develop, in preparation for breathing. Your baby’s eyes can open and close now, and they will react to light. His mouth is developing in preparation for the sucking reflex, as well as for swallowing. His nostrils are opening this week, and he may even be able to smell. He is already practicing walking, as his feet pedal up against your uterine wall. With all his twisting and turning, it’s amazing that the umbilical cord remains uncompromised. The umbilical cord is built to sustain life even through all the twists and turns of your baby, as its tough anti-knotting capabilities keep it well intact.
Max was pretty active yesterday. Mark thinks maybe he was excited about the snow like the external kids, and the only way Max could demonstrate his excitment was by jumping around and crushing my innards. Thanks Max.
I had a check up yesterday morning. All is well. Max is measuring 25 weeks. His heartbeat is strong and normal. My blood pressure was up a little but they said it was normal to have a slight increase given the increase in my blood volume. I was also able to get some new vitamins so that I don't have to take the horrible fishy ones.
Many thanks to Krista for some great books on pregnancy and getting ready for birth. And repeated thanks to Krista, Jenn, and Niki for almost all of my clothes. Having
And here's the info on 25 weeks...
http://www.babycenter.com/6_your-pregnancy-25-weeks_1114.bc
How your baby's growing:Head to heels, your baby now measures about 13 1/2 inches. His weight — a pound and a half — isn't much more than an average rutabaga, but he's beginning to exchange his long, lean look for some baby fat. As he does, his wrinkled skin will begin to smooth out and he'll start to look more and more like a newborn. His hair is probably recognizable now (in color and texture), although both may change after he's born.
http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com/pregnancy_week_25.htm
Your baby is continuing to mature during pregnancy week 25 and for the next several weeks. The structures that form the spine start to form around pregnancy at 25 weeks, and blood vessels in the lungs continue to develop this week. Other things that are shaping up during pregnancy at 25 weeks include our baby's nostrils, which may open up by the end of this week.
Your baby is starting to put on just a little meat, and will continue filling out as your pregnancy progresses.
http://www.smartmomma.com/pregnancy/weekly_fetal_dev_25.htm
Your baby is now 1 ½ pounds, with a length of about 13 ½ inches. His wrinkly skin is soon going to be a thing of the past, as he begins to accumulate fat deposits. Before you know it, he will be a plump newborn. If you were to look inside, you would see that your baby’s hair has formed in texture and color. He may or may not lose that hair after he is born. Some babies lose their hair and grow new hair, maybe even a different color.
The spine is strengthening this week, as the joints, ligaments, and rings form to protect the spinal cord from any injury. The blood vessels in the lungs develop, in preparation for breathing. Your baby’s eyes can open and close now, and they will react to light. His mouth is developing in preparation for the sucking reflex, as well as for swallowing. His nostrils are opening this week, and he may even be able to smell. He is already practicing walking, as his feet pedal up against your uterine wall. With all his twisting and turning, it’s amazing that the umbilical cord remains uncompromised. The umbilical cord is built to sustain life even through all the twists and turns of your baby, as its tough anti-knotting capabilities keep it well intact.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Water Baby...
I have a doctor's appointment tomorrow just for a regular checkup. Last time I weighed myself I was up 4.5 pounds. We'll see how it goes tomorrow. I am also hoping to change my vitamin prescription tomorrow. I hate the current ones because the DHA pill stinks and tastes like fish. Sometimes for hours. So not cool.
The baby seems to really enjoy shower time. When I get into the shower and my belly gets into the water, he moves to get as much of himself into the direct spray as possible. My belly is almost triangular from his movements. It is actually indented in the sides as he pushes himself into a line along the outermost part of my belly to maximize his time in the hot water. I haven't tried a bath to see how he likes that. But my morning shower is much more amusing now that I can see him move around like that. :)
He's still pretty active most of the time. If I have caffeine it definitely perks him up for a bit.
We are still working on the details of my maternity leave. I have been getting more information from my office about what I can do. I think my boss will be pretty flexible with me and will help me find ways to make the most of the very limited leave I have available to me. I might be able to take my 3 weeks of paid leave and then work part-time from home for the rest of my time off to extend the amount of time I can be at home while still bringing in a bit of a paycheck. And I believe that while I am working part-time I also accrue some leave, but I'm not sure about that. One more question to add to the list...
The baby seems to really enjoy shower time. When I get into the shower and my belly gets into the water, he moves to get as much of himself into the direct spray as possible. My belly is almost triangular from his movements. It is actually indented in the sides as he pushes himself into a line along the outermost part of my belly to maximize his time in the hot water. I haven't tried a bath to see how he likes that. But my morning shower is much more amusing now that I can see him move around like that. :)
He's still pretty active most of the time. If I have caffeine it definitely perks him up for a bit.
We are still working on the details of my maternity leave. I have been getting more information from my office about what I can do. I think my boss will be pretty flexible with me and will help me find ways to make the most of the very limited leave I have available to me. I might be able to take my 3 weeks of paid leave and then work part-time from home for the rest of my time off to extend the amount of time I can be at home while still bringing in a bit of a paycheck. And I believe that while I am working part-time I also accrue some leave, but I'm not sure about that. One more question to add to the list...
Thursday, November 29, 2007
24 Weeks - Perfect by tiny
Today's offical-ish weigh in puts me up 4 pounds from my pre-pregnancy weight.
Max has been VERY active this week. He seems to wake up fairly early. He moves before I eat. He moves after I eat. He moves at bedtime. He pretty much seems to move whenever he feels like it. :) I'm glad he is enjoying himself in there.
Now that I have seen photos of my cousin's son (at 1 day old) it makes the whole purpose of the pregnancy seem a lot more real. It isn't just about puking unexpectedly and having trouble rolling over at night. At the end of all this there will be a baby... It is nice to have a reminder about what this is all about. Plus baby Alfie looked totally cute!
http://www.maternityandbabyshoppingmart.com/pregnancy_week_24.html
Your Baby's Growth and Development
During pregnancy week 24 your baby weighs roughly one pound or more. By now your baby resembles a tiny but perfect human being in most cases. During pregnancy week 24 and beyond your baby's central nervous system continues to develop, as do your baby's lungs. Your baby's lungs are starting to form tiny branches and will eventually produce a substance called surfactant, necessary for full respiration after delivery.
The amniotic fluid in your uterus will increase in volume starting around 24 weeks pregnancy, and will continue to do so until right before delivery. Most of the time a woman's uterus holds roughly 2 pints of amniotic fluid. Did you know amniotic fluid actually changes consistency during pregnancy? During early pregnancy your amniotic fluid more closely resembles plasma, whereas near delivery your amniotic fluid contains multiple substances including fetal urine and lanugo covering your baby.
Most babies swallow and excrete a small volume of amniotic fluid during pregnancy. This is perfectly normal and perhaps prepares your baby for actual breathing after delivery.
Changes In Your Body
By now your uterus may rest as much as 2inches above your navel. Many women start touching their bellies more frequently now as they notice their belly growing larger and larger. You may also notice that other people acquire a fondness for touching your belly.
While normal, this does bother some women. For some reason people are fascinated by pregnancy, and take every opportunity they can to rub pregnant women's bellies, with or without asking. If you don't mind, let them. If it makes you uncomfortable, place your own hand there first or tell people you are too ticklish. This will send a message without you feeling uncomfortable or being rude.
Some people just feel pregnant women are lucky and want to rub your belly for a little luck. It certainly is worth a try.
You'll also notice that people have a tendency to comment on your belly size every chance they get. Whether they notice your belly is too "large" or too "small" for dates don't be offended. This happens all the time. Just take everything in stride and have faith your belly size is just right for your baby.
Counting Your Babies Kicks
When babies first start moving about strongly enough that you feel their movements, you'll notice for the most part they are quite random. Eventually however, especially toward your third trimester you will notice your baby tends to kick more at certain times of the day than others.
Babies go through normal patterns of sleep and wakefulness during the day, and their kicking reflects this. Many times during the third trimester a doctor will recommend you start counting fetal kicks during the day to ensure your baby is healthy and thriving.
How do you do this? You only have to do this once a day. Normally you can do these easily by sitting quietly for a short period and counting the amount of time it takes you to feel ten or more movements for your baby. Typically this should happen within a two hour time frame. Some women drink juice to facilitate this process. Most babies' respond to sweet drinks or changes in schedule.
(if that is true then Max should be using a different schedule today since I got almost no sleep and feel like a zombie...)
Max has been VERY active this week. He seems to wake up fairly early. He moves before I eat. He moves after I eat. He moves at bedtime. He pretty much seems to move whenever he feels like it. :) I'm glad he is enjoying himself in there.
Now that I have seen photos of my cousin's son (at 1 day old) it makes the whole purpose of the pregnancy seem a lot more real. It isn't just about puking unexpectedly and having trouble rolling over at night. At the end of all this there will be a baby... It is nice to have a reminder about what this is all about. Plus baby Alfie looked totally cute!
http://www.maternityandbabyshoppingmart.com/pregnancy_week_24.html
Your Baby's Growth and Development
During pregnancy week 24 your baby weighs roughly one pound or more. By now your baby resembles a tiny but perfect human being in most cases. During pregnancy week 24 and beyond your baby's central nervous system continues to develop, as do your baby's lungs. Your baby's lungs are starting to form tiny branches and will eventually produce a substance called surfactant, necessary for full respiration after delivery.
The amniotic fluid in your uterus will increase in volume starting around 24 weeks pregnancy, and will continue to do so until right before delivery. Most of the time a woman's uterus holds roughly 2 pints of amniotic fluid. Did you know amniotic fluid actually changes consistency during pregnancy? During early pregnancy your amniotic fluid more closely resembles plasma, whereas near delivery your amniotic fluid contains multiple substances including fetal urine and lanugo covering your baby.
Most babies swallow and excrete a small volume of amniotic fluid during pregnancy. This is perfectly normal and perhaps prepares your baby for actual breathing after delivery.
Changes In Your Body
By now your uterus may rest as much as 2inches above your navel. Many women start touching their bellies more frequently now as they notice their belly growing larger and larger. You may also notice that other people acquire a fondness for touching your belly.
While normal, this does bother some women. For some reason people are fascinated by pregnancy, and take every opportunity they can to rub pregnant women's bellies, with or without asking. If you don't mind, let them. If it makes you uncomfortable, place your own hand there first or tell people you are too ticklish. This will send a message without you feeling uncomfortable or being rude.
Some people just feel pregnant women are lucky and want to rub your belly for a little luck. It certainly is worth a try.
You'll also notice that people have a tendency to comment on your belly size every chance they get. Whether they notice your belly is too "large" or too "small" for dates don't be offended. This happens all the time. Just take everything in stride and have faith your belly size is just right for your baby.
Counting Your Babies Kicks
When babies first start moving about strongly enough that you feel their movements, you'll notice for the most part they are quite random. Eventually however, especially toward your third trimester you will notice your baby tends to kick more at certain times of the day than others.
Babies go through normal patterns of sleep and wakefulness during the day, and their kicking reflects this. Many times during the third trimester a doctor will recommend you start counting fetal kicks during the day to ensure your baby is healthy and thriving.
How do you do this? You only have to do this once a day. Normally you can do these easily by sitting quietly for a short period and counting the amount of time it takes you to feel ten or more movements for your baby. Typically this should happen within a two hour time frame. Some women drink juice to facilitate this process. Most babies' respond to sweet drinks or changes in schedule.
(if that is true then Max should be using a different schedule today since I got almost no sleep and feel like a zombie...)
Friday, November 23, 2007
23 Weeks and 1 Day...
So it turns out my knack of not putting on weight is a continuing trend. I put on 4 pounds while on the cruise but lost 3 of those pounds this week. So I am up a total of 3 pounds so far. Max himself weighs about a pound. He has been very active over the last few days and seems to wake up whenever I wake up in the morning. Or when Mark wakes up in the morning. Whichever one comes first. I'm ok with him waking up when I wake up. Not so much when he wakes up with Mark 2 hours before I have to get up and get ready. :) Hopefully we can all sleep in on Saturday and Sunday.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Almost 23 weeks...
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
The baby bump is now quite huge! I went from having a bit of a waist at the wedding to having a huge bump. Mark took me shopping for some new dress shoes that slide on since putting on regular shoes is already sometimes a difficult task. Plus you know how I love to buy new shoes!
I put on 4 pounds on the cruise but then lost 2 after returning to non-cruise eating so I am now 4 pounds above my pre-pregnancy weight. This is about 10 pounds below most folks at this stage but my doctor isn't concerned so I'm not going to fret about it. And I figure this means I can eat all the turkey and cheesy pie I want at Thanksgiving dinner.
The baby is very active now. He woke up with Mark this morning (at 5am) and is usually fairly active about an hour after I eat. Midway through the cruise Mark was able to feel him move for the first time. Nik has asked if he can take the baby out to see him. Julian is hoping he will be able to feel the baby moving but it hasn't happened yet.
In sad news Mark has declared that his son cannot be named after Colin Firth, so we are going to have to come up with a new middle name to go with Maximillian. I'd like a C name so I'm recommending Clive until I come up with something I like more. :)
I got the test results back and although they were not perfectly normal they were within a normal range so that means no toxemia. Yay for that!!!
And here is the 23 weeks scoop:
http://www.maternityandbabyshoppingmart.com/pregnancy_week_23.html
Your Baby's Growth and Development
By pregnancy week 23 your baby is measuring in at a hefty one pound... that is huge considering how small your baby was just a few short months ago. Keep in mind your baby was less than one ounce and is now fully weighable on most ordinary scales! Most babies are also between eight and eleven inches long by pregnancy week 23.
During pregnancy 23 weeks your baby is quite capable of hearing loud noises outside the womb. You may notice your baby shift in response to your voice or that of your partner. Don't be surprised if your baby is still flopping around quite a bit inside your tummy. This is very normal during the second trimester when your baby still has plenty of room to shift around.
http://www.babycentre.co.uk/pregnancy/fetaldevelopment/23weeks/
Your baby now weighs a little over one pound/ 500 grams and measures about 11.4 inches/ 29 centimetres from crown to heel. Her hearing is well established and she can make out a distorted version of your voice, the beating of your heart and your stomach rumblings. Loud noises often heard in utero, such as the barking of a dog next door or the roar of a vacuum cleaner, probably won't bother your child when she hears them outside the womb.
Numerous studies seem to indicate that the unborn prefer classical music, especially Vivaldi. Play The Four Seasons for your child and pay attention to her movements. Does she quieten down during adagio sections and speed up for the allegro portions? You may have a budding conductor in your womb. In addition to advances in your baby's hearing, her lungs are developing to prepare for breathing. She's swallowing but she normally won't pass her first stool (called meconium) until after birth.
If your baby were to be born now, she would have a small chance of survival (about 16 per cent) with the right care. Every day in the womb makes a difference at this stage. If she was born at 24 weeks her chance of survival would rise to 44 per cent. As for you, you may feel clumsy now that your centre of gravity has shifted. Your gums may bleed when you brush your teeth and your belly button, once an 'innie', may now stick out. Don't worry. It'll revert to its pre-baby state soon after you give birth.
The baby bump is now quite huge! I went from having a bit of a waist at the wedding to having a huge bump. Mark took me shopping for some new dress shoes that slide on since putting on regular shoes is already sometimes a difficult task. Plus you know how I love to buy new shoes!
I put on 4 pounds on the cruise but then lost 2 after returning to non-cruise eating so I am now 4 pounds above my pre-pregnancy weight. This is about 10 pounds below most folks at this stage but my doctor isn't concerned so I'm not going to fret about it. And I figure this means I can eat all the turkey and cheesy pie I want at Thanksgiving dinner.
The baby is very active now. He woke up with Mark this morning (at 5am) and is usually fairly active about an hour after I eat. Midway through the cruise Mark was able to feel him move for the first time. Nik has asked if he can take the baby out to see him. Julian is hoping he will be able to feel the baby moving but it hasn't happened yet.
In sad news Mark has declared that his son cannot be named after Colin Firth, so we are going to have to come up with a new middle name to go with Maximillian. I'd like a C name so I'm recommending Clive until I come up with something I like more. :)
I got the test results back and although they were not perfectly normal they were within a normal range so that means no toxemia. Yay for that!!!
And here is the 23 weeks scoop:
http://www.maternityandbabyshoppingmart.com/pregnancy_week_23.html
Your Baby's Growth and Development
By pregnancy week 23 your baby is measuring in at a hefty one pound... that is huge considering how small your baby was just a few short months ago. Keep in mind your baby was less than one ounce and is now fully weighable on most ordinary scales! Most babies are also between eight and eleven inches long by pregnancy week 23.
During pregnancy 23 weeks your baby is quite capable of hearing loud noises outside the womb. You may notice your baby shift in response to your voice or that of your partner. Don't be surprised if your baby is still flopping around quite a bit inside your tummy. This is very normal during the second trimester when your baby still has plenty of room to shift around.
http://www.babycentre.co.uk/pregnancy/fetaldevelopment/23weeks/
Your baby now weighs a little over one pound/ 500 grams and measures about 11.4 inches/ 29 centimetres from crown to heel. Her hearing is well established and she can make out a distorted version of your voice, the beating of your heart and your stomach rumblings. Loud noises often heard in utero, such as the barking of a dog next door or the roar of a vacuum cleaner, probably won't bother your child when she hears them outside the womb.
Numerous studies seem to indicate that the unborn prefer classical music, especially Vivaldi. Play The Four Seasons for your child and pay attention to her movements. Does she quieten down during adagio sections and speed up for the allegro portions? You may have a budding conductor in your womb. In addition to advances in your baby's hearing, her lungs are developing to prepare for breathing. She's swallowing but she normally won't pass her first stool (called meconium) until after birth.
If your baby were to be born now, she would have a small chance of survival (about 16 per cent) with the right care. Every day in the womb makes a difference at this stage. If she was born at 24 weeks her chance of survival would rise to 44 per cent. As for you, you may feel clumsy now that your centre of gravity has shifted. Your gums may bleed when you brush your teeth and your belly button, once an 'innie', may now stick out. Don't worry. It'll revert to its pre-baby state soon after you give birth.
Thursday, November 8, 2007
21 Weeks
So today I weighed myself and I am up 2 pounds from my pre-pregnancy weight. After the cruise I am going to have to do a better job of watching what I eat to make sure I don't put the pounds on too fast. For right now, 2 pounds at 21 weeks is just fine. It is normal to have gained 10-15 pounds by now but we are trying to keep my total weight gain at 15 pounds. Up to this point I haven't had to try to keep the weight off. I have been eating whatever I wanted and not gaining weight. Looks like those days might be over...
I had a checkup yesterday. I feel fine and my blood pressure is fine and Max has a good heartbeat. This was the first time I had a doctor measure to see what my fundal height is. She didn't tell me the result but I would assume I'm on track since everything else reads at 21 weeks. This doctor also confirmed that the last doctor was crazy and I can gain weight without worrying (but not too much!) and that I should not be following the Atkins Diet!!! My headaches are a worry so we are looking into what might be causing them. Basically eliminating major issues and seeing if this is just my "normal" migraines coming back again. I woke up with a throbbing head but I was able to get back to sleep for about an hour and that helped a lot.
I'm clearly showing now since strangers are now asking me when I am due and if it is a boy or a girl. So far Max seems to be mostly sticking out in the front so from behind I don't look pregnant. We'll see if that continues or not...
Here's the scoop on 21 weeks... We'll be on the cruise for week 22.
http://www.i-am-pregnant.com/pregnancy/calendar/week/21
Your baby's blood circulation is completely functional. The umbilical cord system continues to grow and thicken as blood travels with considerable force through the body to nurture the baby. The placenta is now almost equal in size to the baby. Your baby will be getting much larger during the second half of your pregnancy. Your baby's crown-to-rump length at this time is 7.2 inches and she weighs approximately 10.5 ounces. Your growing baby is about the size of a large banana. You should be able to feel your uterus about a half of an inch above your navel. Your weight gain so far will be around 10 to 15 pounds. As your baby begins to lay down more fat, your weight will also increase. During the next 10 weeks, you will gain about half of the total gain for your entire pregnancy. Strangers can now tell that you are pregnant! You might notice an increase in appetite because you need 500 more calories a day to support your charged up metabolism. It is best to avoid processed foods or foods high in fat, calories or sugar. Some women also get strong cravings for foods. If you notice a craving for something unhealthy, you should contact your doctor. Cravings unusal things is known as pica. Some women crave cigarette ashes, charcoal, beer and other non-food items during this time. Your baby's different organs and systems are maturing. The fetal digestive system is functioning in a simple way and your baby can swallow amniotic fluid. After your baby swallows the amniotic fluid, she is able to absorb water and sugars from the fluid and then the waste is passed as far as the large bowel. Your baby swallows the amniotic fluid in order to prepare itslef for life outside of the womb. Some babies consume as much as 17 ounces of amniotic fluid in a 24-hour period. Your baby already has a high number of red blood cells and the white blood cells are begining to be produced. Taste buds are being formed on your baby's tongue this week also. Don't be surprised if your legs and feet become swollen throughout the day. You should try to get off of your feet some throughout the day and prop your legs up. If you notice a substantial amount of swelling, you should contact your healthcare provider for evaluation.
http://www.momswhothink.com/pregnancy-weeks/21-weeks-pregnant.html
Welcome to week 21 of pregnancy! At your prenatal appointment your provider has probably been measuring the height of your uterus (fundal height) since it appeared above your pubic bone. After about 20 weeks, this measurement generally correlates with your dates. Fundal height measurements assess growth from visit to visit. Ultrasound would be performed for any inconsistency in fundal height. After about 36 weeks the measurement for fundal height becomes less accurate as your baby settles into your pelvis.
As your pregnancy progresses, you’re carrying more weight. Because this is pregnancy weight, it changes your center of gravity. You may feel clumsier, and lose your balance much easier. Be careful! Take extra precautions to make sure your steps are sure and steady. This is the time you start taking things slower, for yours and your baby’s safety.
Weight gain is on many pregnant women’s minds; make sure you discuss this with your doctor. While you don’t want to obsess, you also don’t want to let your weight get out of control….risking complications. Weight gain is also a way for your doctor to decide if you are measuring right for your due date, and can monitor your baby’s growth.
You may be finding yourself out of breath more often; this is caused by your uterus pushing against your diaphragm, leaving less space for your lungs.
http://www.babycentre.co.uk/pregnancy/fetaldevelopment/21weeks
The fetus now weighs about three-quarters of a pound/ 360 grams. Up until now she has been measured from crown to rump but from this point on the measurement will be from crown to heel. And from crown to heel she is approximately 10.5 inches/ 27 centimetres long. The eyebrows and eyelids are fully developed and the fingernails cover the fingertips.
I had a checkup yesterday. I feel fine and my blood pressure is fine and Max has a good heartbeat. This was the first time I had a doctor measure to see what my fundal height is. She didn't tell me the result but I would assume I'm on track since everything else reads at 21 weeks. This doctor also confirmed that the last doctor was crazy and I can gain weight without worrying (but not too much!) and that I should not be following the Atkins Diet!!! My headaches are a worry so we are looking into what might be causing them. Basically eliminating major issues and seeing if this is just my "normal" migraines coming back again. I woke up with a throbbing head but I was able to get back to sleep for about an hour and that helped a lot.
I'm clearly showing now since strangers are now asking me when I am due and if it is a boy or a girl. So far Max seems to be mostly sticking out in the front so from behind I don't look pregnant. We'll see if that continues or not...
Here's the scoop on 21 weeks... We'll be on the cruise for week 22.
http://www.i-am-pregnant.com/pregnancy/calendar/week/21
Your baby's blood circulation is completely functional. The umbilical cord system continues to grow and thicken as blood travels with considerable force through the body to nurture the baby. The placenta is now almost equal in size to the baby. Your baby will be getting much larger during the second half of your pregnancy. Your baby's crown-to-rump length at this time is 7.2 inches and she weighs approximately 10.5 ounces. Your growing baby is about the size of a large banana. You should be able to feel your uterus about a half of an inch above your navel. Your weight gain so far will be around 10 to 15 pounds. As your baby begins to lay down more fat, your weight will also increase. During the next 10 weeks, you will gain about half of the total gain for your entire pregnancy. Strangers can now tell that you are pregnant! You might notice an increase in appetite because you need 500 more calories a day to support your charged up metabolism. It is best to avoid processed foods or foods high in fat, calories or sugar. Some women also get strong cravings for foods. If you notice a craving for something unhealthy, you should contact your doctor. Cravings unusal things is known as pica. Some women crave cigarette ashes, charcoal, beer and other non-food items during this time. Your baby's different organs and systems are maturing. The fetal digestive system is functioning in a simple way and your baby can swallow amniotic fluid. After your baby swallows the amniotic fluid, she is able to absorb water and sugars from the fluid and then the waste is passed as far as the large bowel. Your baby swallows the amniotic fluid in order to prepare itslef for life outside of the womb. Some babies consume as much as 17 ounces of amniotic fluid in a 24-hour period. Your baby already has a high number of red blood cells and the white blood cells are begining to be produced. Taste buds are being formed on your baby's tongue this week also. Don't be surprised if your legs and feet become swollen throughout the day. You should try to get off of your feet some throughout the day and prop your legs up. If you notice a substantial amount of swelling, you should contact your healthcare provider for evaluation.
http://www.momswhothink.com/pregnancy-weeks/21-weeks-pregnant.html
Welcome to week 21 of pregnancy! At your prenatal appointment your provider has probably been measuring the height of your uterus (fundal height) since it appeared above your pubic bone. After about 20 weeks, this measurement generally correlates with your dates. Fundal height measurements assess growth from visit to visit. Ultrasound would be performed for any inconsistency in fundal height. After about 36 weeks the measurement for fundal height becomes less accurate as your baby settles into your pelvis.
As your pregnancy progresses, you’re carrying more weight. Because this is pregnancy weight, it changes your center of gravity. You may feel clumsier, and lose your balance much easier. Be careful! Take extra precautions to make sure your steps are sure and steady. This is the time you start taking things slower, for yours and your baby’s safety.
Weight gain is on many pregnant women’s minds; make sure you discuss this with your doctor. While you don’t want to obsess, you also don’t want to let your weight get out of control….risking complications. Weight gain is also a way for your doctor to decide if you are measuring right for your due date, and can monitor your baby’s growth.
You may be finding yourself out of breath more often; this is caused by your uterus pushing against your diaphragm, leaving less space for your lungs.
http://www.babycentre.co.uk/pregnancy/fetaldevelopment/21weeks
The fetus now weighs about three-quarters of a pound/ 360 grams. Up until now she has been measured from crown to rump but from this point on the measurement will be from crown to heel. And from crown to heel she is approximately 10.5 inches/ 27 centimetres long. The eyebrows and eyelids are fully developed and the fingernails cover the fingertips.
Your baby can now hear your conversations. If you talk, read, or sing to your baby, expect her to hear you. Some studies have found that newborns will suck more vigorously when read to from a book they heard frequently in utero. If you want to try, pick a book now and read it out loud. Make sure you won't mind reading it over and over once the baby is here. It may be your baby's favourite bedtime story for a long time after birth.
And here is a preview for week 22... Eyebrows!
http://www.babycentre.co.uk/stages/0122/
Your baby now looks like a miniature newborn. His lips are becoming more distinct and his eyes have developed; though the iris still lacks pigment, his eyebrows and eyelids are in place. His pancreas, essential for hormone production, is developing steadily and the first signs of teeth are showing beneath his gum line. Before you know it, your baby will be smiling at you.
http://www.babycentre.co.uk/pregnancy/fetaldevelopment/22weeks/
The baby now weighs almost one pound / 430 grams, measures nearly 11 inches/ just over 27 centimetres long from crown to heel, and is proportioned like a newborn, albeit a thinner version since her baby fat hasn't yet developed. Although she's getting heavier every day, her skin still appears wrinkled because she needs to gain more weight. The lips are distinct and the eyes are formed, though the iris (the coloured part of the eye) still lacks pigment. The pancreas, essential in the production of hormones, is developing steadily.
Even this early, the first signs of teeth appear in the form of tooth buds beneath the gum line. Before you know it, your baby will be born, and soon after, her first teeth will come through. You've probably gained between 12 and 15 pounds / 5.4 and 6.8 kilograms. Starting now, you'll begin to put on weight more steadily, averaging about half a pound / 225 grams per week. You may crave certain foods.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
20 weeks -- Halfway!
Today marks 20 weeks of pregnancy and I finally weighed in at my pre-pregnancy weight. This means that over the next 20 weeks I actually need to pay attention to what I am eating to try to keep the weight gain down to about 15 pounds. The last few weeks the baby is really putting on weight, so I anticipate a pound a week for the last 15 weeks. So it is all a question of what happens between now and the start of December...
I'm sad to see that the baby is now being compared to the most evil of fruits... But here are the updates anyway...
http://www.babycenter.com/6_your-pregnancy-20-weeks_1109.bc
How your baby's growing:Your baby weighs about 10 1/2 ounces now. She's also around 6 1/2 inches long from head to bottom, and about 10 inches from head to heel — the length of a banana. (For the first 20 weeks, we use measurements taken from the top of the baby's head to her bottom — known as the "crown to rump" measurement. After that, we use measurements from head to toe. This is because a baby's legs are curled up against her torso during the first half of pregnancy and are very hard to measure.)A greasy white substance called vernix caseosa coats her entire body to protect her skin during its long submersion in amniotic fluid. (This slick coating also eases the journey down the birth canal.)Your baby is swallowing more, which is good practice for her digestive system. She's also producing meconium, a black, sticky substance that's the result of cell loss, digestive secretion, and swallowed amniotic fluid. This meconium will accumulate in her bowels, and you'll see it in her first messy diaper (although a few babies pass it in utero or during delivery).
How your life's changing:You've made it to the halfway mark — Congratulations! The top of your uterus is at the level of your belly button now, and you've likely gained about 10 pounds. Expect to gain an average of about another pound each week from now on.
http://pregnancy.emedtv.com/pregnancy-week-by-week/20-weeks-pregnant.html
20 Weeks Pregnant: An Overview
You are now 20 weeks pregnant! By the end of this week you will be halfway through your pregnancy.
When you are 20 weeks pregnant, your baby measures about 5.6 to 6.4 inches and weighs about 9 ounces. It's amazing -- your baby can do so many things, but he or she is not yet 1 pound!
Your baby can hear sounds now, and it will cover its ears with its hands if a loud sound is made near you or "jump" if it is startled. Your baby will also be moving a lot -- twisting, turning, punching, and kicking. You still may not feel this movement, or it may feel just like butterflies or stomach rumblings.
http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com/pregnancy_week_20.htm
How Big is the Baby at 20 Weeks Pregnant?
By pregnancy week 20 your baby is now almost 9 ounces and is between 5 1/2 and 6 1/2 inches long! The pregnancy week by week changes occurring at this stage are truly remarkable.
Your Baby's Growth and Development
By pregnancy 20 weeks your baby is now practicing breathing and swallowing on a regular basis. Your baby continues to grow and fill out, with the head becoming slightly more proportional to the rest of the body.
Your baby's skin is becoming more complex at the end of pregnancy week 20, forming different layers. The epidermis, or surface of your baby's skin now has four layers that contain ridges for fingertips. The layers that form in your baby's palms and feet will provide him with his own unique fingerprint later in life.
Your Growth and Development
By pregnancy 20 weeks time you are at the midpoint of your pregnancy, and onlookers are definitely starting to notice your bump! After pregnancy week 20 your uterus has likely reached your bellybutton. Growth typically starts to become more regular from this point in time on, so you should be noticing regular changes in your belly.
Remember that you are halfway through your pregnancy by 20 weeks pregnant, only 20 more weeks to go! Some ladies will deliver slightly sooner than 40 weeks, while others will delivery shortly after. A typical pregnancy usually lasts anywhere from 37-42 weeks. Where you fall in this spectrum will depend on a number of factors, including the accuracy of your due date, the health of your baby and even your genetics
http://pregnancy.about.com/od/pregnancycalendar/p/week20.htm
Mother:
You are half way through your pregnancy! Congratulations!Your belly button may pop out and stay that way as your uterus presses upwards. Some people will have trouble breathing as their lungs become cramped. This will usually continue until the baby "drops." In a first pregnancy this will generally occur 4-6 weeks before your birth and with subsequent pregnancies not until you are in labor. Once the baby "drops." You will have to urinate more frequently, hard to believe, eh? Remembering to do your pelvic tilts prior to laying down will hopefully allow you a few more minutes before the next bathroom break.
Baby:
Lanugo forms from sebum and skin cells to create vernix. This creamy white substance is believed to help protect the baby inutero. It will cling to the lanugo and in the creases. This is also something that can be seen sometimes after the birth. Rumor has it that nursery nurses use it for hand lotion, because of its smooth, protect quality.
You may be aware of sleep wake cycles in your little one. The weight is now up to 10 ounces (283 grams) and the baby measures about 25 cms total length, about 9.8 inches. Many moms have an ultrasound at week 20. It may be your first peek at baby.
Dad:
Take mom out to dinner to celebrate the half-way point in pregnancy. My husband adds that a gift for the baby is also a nice touch. This is particularly true if you're just finding out if your baby is a girl or a boy.
I'm sad to see that the baby is now being compared to the most evil of fruits... But here are the updates anyway...
http://www.babycenter.com/6_your-pregnancy-20-weeks_1109.bc
How your baby's growing:Your baby weighs about 10 1/2 ounces now. She's also around 6 1/2 inches long from head to bottom, and about 10 inches from head to heel — the length of a banana. (For the first 20 weeks, we use measurements taken from the top of the baby's head to her bottom — known as the "crown to rump" measurement. After that, we use measurements from head to toe. This is because a baby's legs are curled up against her torso during the first half of pregnancy and are very hard to measure.)A greasy white substance called vernix caseosa coats her entire body to protect her skin during its long submersion in amniotic fluid. (This slick coating also eases the journey down the birth canal.)Your baby is swallowing more, which is good practice for her digestive system. She's also producing meconium, a black, sticky substance that's the result of cell loss, digestive secretion, and swallowed amniotic fluid. This meconium will accumulate in her bowels, and you'll see it in her first messy diaper (although a few babies pass it in utero or during delivery).
How your life's changing:You've made it to the halfway mark — Congratulations! The top of your uterus is at the level of your belly button now, and you've likely gained about 10 pounds. Expect to gain an average of about another pound each week from now on.
http://pregnancy.emedtv.com/pregnancy-week-by-week/20-weeks-pregnant.html
20 Weeks Pregnant: An Overview
You are now 20 weeks pregnant! By the end of this week you will be halfway through your pregnancy.
When you are 20 weeks pregnant, your baby measures about 5.6 to 6.4 inches and weighs about 9 ounces. It's amazing -- your baby can do so many things, but he or she is not yet 1 pound!
Your baby can hear sounds now, and it will cover its ears with its hands if a loud sound is made near you or "jump" if it is startled. Your baby will also be moving a lot -- twisting, turning, punching, and kicking. You still may not feel this movement, or it may feel just like butterflies or stomach rumblings.
http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com/pregnancy_week_20.htm
How Big is the Baby at 20 Weeks Pregnant?
By pregnancy week 20 your baby is now almost 9 ounces and is between 5 1/2 and 6 1/2 inches long! The pregnancy week by week changes occurring at this stage are truly remarkable.
Your Baby's Growth and Development
By pregnancy 20 weeks your baby is now practicing breathing and swallowing on a regular basis. Your baby continues to grow and fill out, with the head becoming slightly more proportional to the rest of the body.
Your baby's skin is becoming more complex at the end of pregnancy week 20, forming different layers. The epidermis, or surface of your baby's skin now has four layers that contain ridges for fingertips. The layers that form in your baby's palms and feet will provide him with his own unique fingerprint later in life.
Your Growth and Development
By pregnancy 20 weeks time you are at the midpoint of your pregnancy, and onlookers are definitely starting to notice your bump! After pregnancy week 20 your uterus has likely reached your bellybutton. Growth typically starts to become more regular from this point in time on, so you should be noticing regular changes in your belly.
Remember that you are halfway through your pregnancy by 20 weeks pregnant, only 20 more weeks to go! Some ladies will deliver slightly sooner than 40 weeks, while others will delivery shortly after. A typical pregnancy usually lasts anywhere from 37-42 weeks. Where you fall in this spectrum will depend on a number of factors, including the accuracy of your due date, the health of your baby and even your genetics
http://pregnancy.about.com/od/pregnancycalendar/p/week20.htm
Mother:
You are half way through your pregnancy! Congratulations!Your belly button may pop out and stay that way as your uterus presses upwards. Some people will have trouble breathing as their lungs become cramped. This will usually continue until the baby "drops." In a first pregnancy this will generally occur 4-6 weeks before your birth and with subsequent pregnancies not until you are in labor. Once the baby "drops." You will have to urinate more frequently, hard to believe, eh? Remembering to do your pelvic tilts prior to laying down will hopefully allow you a few more minutes before the next bathroom break.
Baby:
Lanugo forms from sebum and skin cells to create vernix. This creamy white substance is believed to help protect the baby inutero. It will cling to the lanugo and in the creases. This is also something that can be seen sometimes after the birth. Rumor has it that nursery nurses use it for hand lotion, because of its smooth, protect quality.
You may be aware of sleep wake cycles in your little one. The weight is now up to 10 ounces (283 grams) and the baby measures about 25 cms total length, about 9.8 inches. Many moms have an ultrasound at week 20. It may be your first peek at baby.
Dad:
Take mom out to dinner to celebrate the half-way point in pregnancy. My husband adds that a gift for the baby is also a nice touch. This is particularly true if you're just finding out if your baby is a girl or a boy.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
A funny Nik story...
So this morning before school Nik and I went to the dry cleaners to drop off my wedding dress and then went to the coffee shop next door for a hot chocolate. Nik had his and I had mine. He asked "Am I drinking hot chocolate?" and I said "Yes." He asked "Are you drinking hot chocolate?" and I said "Yes." He asked "Is the baby drinking hot chocolate?" and I said "Yes." And then he asked "Does he have a cup?" and I managed to not laugh too much and tell him no. :)
Thursday, October 25, 2007
19 weeks -- It's a Boy!!
We had our sonogram today. It is DEFINTELY a boy. He was very eager to show up what he had... But not at all eager to cooperate for the 3-D scan. The technician was really trying to get a picture of his head to show us his face but the baby kept putting his hand up in front of his face. He was very active. He was moving his legs and moving his arms. He crossed and un-crossed his legs. I guess he is enjoying all the room he has in there at the moment. It is weird to see him moving around on the screen and yet be unable to feel him moving around on the inside. It won't be long before that changes.
His head is 14 cm around. He weighs about 10 ounces. He is the length of a bottle of beer. Maybe a Coronita tho, since he is only 10 ounces. And you know how I love a tiny bottle of beer. Or maybe he is the size of a bottle of Ting. I look forward to returning to St Maarten just for the Ting. Oh yummy grapefruity goodness.
We got tons of pictures today so that was also pretty cool. :) If you want to see them all, just let me know...
Thursday, October 18, 2007
18 weeks = Can of Soup
Sorry for the late post. Between no work laptop and an afternoon of meetings on my telework day I didn't get a chance to do the update until now, after knitting class.
http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com/pregnancy_week_18.htm
How Big is the Baby at 18 Weeks Pregnant?
By 18 weeks pregnant your baby is now anywhere from 5 to approximately 6 inches long at 18 weeks and weighs a little over 5 ounces! In case you are wondering that is about the size of a small can of soup!
Your Baby's Growth and Development
By pregnancy week 18 your baby's heart is developed enough to show some signs of defects. Ultrasound may be used to help detect any structural abnormalities that might exist. Most babies will be born without any congenital abnormalities. If an early ultrasound does detect something abnormal, you can plan ahead for any interventions or surgeries that may be necessary to support your newborn baby after birth.At pregnancy week 18 your baby is now starting to produce a protective covering along the nerves, called Myelin. This substance will be produced through the ninth month. By now your baby's genitals should be distinguishable, though you may not yet have the opportunity to view them at your health care practitioner's office.
http://www.babycentre.co.uk/pregnancy/fetaldevelopment/18weeks/
Your baby is approximately 6 inches/ 14.2 centimetres long from crown to rump and she weighs about 7 ounces/ 190 grams. Her chest moves up and down to mimic breathing but she's not taking in air, only amniotic fluid.A mid-pregnancy ultrasound scan is often done sometime in the second trimester (usually between 18 and 22 weeks) to assess fetal growth and development, screen for certain birth defects, check the placenta and umbilical cord and determine whether the gestational age is accurate. During this scan, you might see your baby kick, flex, reach, roll, or even suck her thumb. Bring your partner along, and whether or not he's able to accompany you, make sure you ask for printouts of the baby in various poses.
http://www.babiesonline.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/week18.asp
Your Baby:Your baby is growing rapidly. His bones are continuing to harden and the pads of his fingers and toes are formed. He even has his own set of fingerprints developing as well. Your baby is approximately 5.5 inches and weighs about 200 grams (7.5 ounces).Your baby can kick, swallow, and sleep. He also is developing his stomach, intestine and colon and the intestines collect meconium (the initial stool a baby will pass after birth). If the baby is a boy, the prostate will begin to develop this week as well. The skin is still a bit pink and transparent and his ears still stick out from his head. The four-chambered heart begins to build up muscle cells and is pumping between 25 and 30 quarts of blood per day.
http://parenting.ivillage.com/pregnancy/wkbywkguide/0,,c32s3v4x,00.html
WHAT'S HAPPENING WITH YOU You may be waiting anxiously for your baby's first movement, known as "quickening." You want to know that your baby, who's been quietly maneuvering around since seven weeks, is big enough and strong enough to send you a message. Many women find this barometer of their baby's well-being very reassuring. Typically, you will feel the first small rumblings of fetal movement between 18 and 22 weeks (or later, in some cases). If you have very strong abdominal muscles, you're very overweight or your fetus is "hiding," you may fall on the late end of the scale. If this is your first pregnancy, you may not feel fetal movement as early as you will in successive pregnancies. Most likely, though, junior will make his or her presence known within this next, exciting month. Early fetal movements may feel like soft tapping, or "butterflies," just above the pubic bone.
WHAT'S HAPPENING WITH YOUR BABY Your baby has grown to 14 centimeters crown to rump. Adding two ounces in just one week, your baby tips the scales at seven ounces. Baby's limbs are lengthening, and at last, body length is catching up to head size. Bones are still malleable but are beginning to ossify.
http://baby2see.com/development/week18.html
Week Eighteen: Baby begins to hearYou are 18 weeks pregnant. (fetal age 16 weeks)The fetus is now 6 inches long and weighs 7 ounces.The fetus measures about 15cm and weighs almost 200 grams.They can hear sounds and may be startled by loud noises.Recognizable active and rest periods.The skin is building a protective wax layer (vernix).Vernix (a white cheese like protective material) forms on baby's skin with the lanugo, a soft lightly pigmented hair covering the body and limbs, both help to protect your baby's skin during the months in water. Your baby may hear your heart beating, your stomach rumbling or blood moving through the umbilical cord. He or she may even be startled by loud noises.Tiny air sacs called alveoli begin to form in lungs and the vocal chords are formed. Baby goes through the motions of crying but without air doesn't make a sound; yet. Your baby may have the same awake and sleep patterns of a newborn. Baby will have a favorite position for sleep and recognizable active and rest periods.Your baby measures about 6 inches (15cm) crown to rump and weighs about 7 ounces (200gm).
http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com/pregnancy_week_18.htm
How Big is the Baby at 18 Weeks Pregnant?
By 18 weeks pregnant your baby is now anywhere from 5 to approximately 6 inches long at 18 weeks and weighs a little over 5 ounces! In case you are wondering that is about the size of a small can of soup!
Your Baby's Growth and Development
By pregnancy week 18 your baby's heart is developed enough to show some signs of defects. Ultrasound may be used to help detect any structural abnormalities that might exist. Most babies will be born without any congenital abnormalities. If an early ultrasound does detect something abnormal, you can plan ahead for any interventions or surgeries that may be necessary to support your newborn baby after birth.At pregnancy week 18 your baby is now starting to produce a protective covering along the nerves, called Myelin. This substance will be produced through the ninth month. By now your baby's genitals should be distinguishable, though you may not yet have the opportunity to view them at your health care practitioner's office.
http://www.babycentre.co.uk/pregnancy/fetaldevelopment/18weeks/
Your baby is approximately 6 inches/ 14.2 centimetres long from crown to rump and she weighs about 7 ounces/ 190 grams. Her chest moves up and down to mimic breathing but she's not taking in air, only amniotic fluid.A mid-pregnancy ultrasound scan is often done sometime in the second trimester (usually between 18 and 22 weeks) to assess fetal growth and development, screen for certain birth defects, check the placenta and umbilical cord and determine whether the gestational age is accurate. During this scan, you might see your baby kick, flex, reach, roll, or even suck her thumb. Bring your partner along, and whether or not he's able to accompany you, make sure you ask for printouts of the baby in various poses.
http://www.babiesonline.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/week18.asp
Your Baby:Your baby is growing rapidly. His bones are continuing to harden and the pads of his fingers and toes are formed. He even has his own set of fingerprints developing as well. Your baby is approximately 5.5 inches and weighs about 200 grams (7.5 ounces).Your baby can kick, swallow, and sleep. He also is developing his stomach, intestine and colon and the intestines collect meconium (the initial stool a baby will pass after birth). If the baby is a boy, the prostate will begin to develop this week as well. The skin is still a bit pink and transparent and his ears still stick out from his head. The four-chambered heart begins to build up muscle cells and is pumping between 25 and 30 quarts of blood per day.
http://parenting.ivillage.com/pregnancy/wkbywkguide/0,,c32s3v4x,00.html
WHAT'S HAPPENING WITH YOU You may be waiting anxiously for your baby's first movement, known as "quickening." You want to know that your baby, who's been quietly maneuvering around since seven weeks, is big enough and strong enough to send you a message. Many women find this barometer of their baby's well-being very reassuring. Typically, you will feel the first small rumblings of fetal movement between 18 and 22 weeks (or later, in some cases). If you have very strong abdominal muscles, you're very overweight or your fetus is "hiding," you may fall on the late end of the scale. If this is your first pregnancy, you may not feel fetal movement as early as you will in successive pregnancies. Most likely, though, junior will make his or her presence known within this next, exciting month. Early fetal movements may feel like soft tapping, or "butterflies," just above the pubic bone.
WHAT'S HAPPENING WITH YOUR BABY Your baby has grown to 14 centimeters crown to rump. Adding two ounces in just one week, your baby tips the scales at seven ounces. Baby's limbs are lengthening, and at last, body length is catching up to head size. Bones are still malleable but are beginning to ossify.
http://baby2see.com/development/week18.html
Week Eighteen: Baby begins to hearYou are 18 weeks pregnant. (fetal age 16 weeks)The fetus is now 6 inches long and weighs 7 ounces.The fetus measures about 15cm and weighs almost 200 grams.They can hear sounds and may be startled by loud noises.Recognizable active and rest periods.The skin is building a protective wax layer (vernix).Vernix (a white cheese like protective material) forms on baby's skin with the lanugo, a soft lightly pigmented hair covering the body and limbs, both help to protect your baby's skin during the months in water. Your baby may hear your heart beating, your stomach rumbling or blood moving through the umbilical cord. He or she may even be startled by loud noises.Tiny air sacs called alveoli begin to form in lungs and the vocal chords are formed. Baby goes through the motions of crying but without air doesn't make a sound; yet. Your baby may have the same awake and sleep patterns of a newborn. Baby will have a favorite position for sleep and recognizable active and rest periods.Your baby measures about 6 inches (15cm) crown to rump and weighs about 7 ounces (200gm).
Thursday, October 11, 2007
17 Weeks = Large Onion or Small Pomegranate
Baby's first trip to Vegas resulted in my first weight gain! I put on 2 pounds leaving me half a pound down from my pre-pregnancy weight. Making it all the more difficult to listen to my doctor calling me a fat cow...
I had another appointment with the OB. Unfortunately I had my first interaction with a doctor I did not like. Not only did she not talk to me about the baby's heartbeat (nice and strong to my ears) but her attitude was quite hostile. She also told me that I should gain no weight at all for the rest of my pregnancy which is at odds with what all of the other doctors have told me is acceptable. She suggested I follow the Atkins Diet and when I asked for more information on healthy eating without carbs she told me that if I didn't want to change my eating habits for the health of my baby she would help me deal with the health issues later. It was so bizarre to have a doctor with such a bad attitude after everyone else at this office has been so great. I plan to just avoid her in the future. The practice has a large number of doctors and it should be fairly easy to avoid this one doctor and her mean attitude. I plan to do some research on my own and talk to some of my diabetic friends for some diet tips. I do not have gestational diabetes but with my family history I am still at risk. So the idea is that if I start eating now as if I do have gestational diabetes I might be able to delay or stop the onset of gestational diabetes. It was so frustrating to ask the doctor for details on her suggested diet plan only to have her attack me for not being willing to make changes in my diet for the health of my baby. I eat almost nothing but carbs so this is going to be a pretty major change for me. Sigh.
http://www.maternityandbabyshoppingmart.com/pregnancy_week_17.html
By now your baby is quite mobile, and measures in at roughly 4.8 inches long and may be as much as 3.5 ounces! Most babies are roughly the size of your palm by about 17 weeks pregnant. Your baby is quite mobile by this point in time, happily swimming about your uterus. This will change in the upcoming weeks as your baby starts putting on pounds and the space inside your uterus becomes increasingly cluttered.
From roughly pregnancy week 17 on your baby starts hearing things in the outside world. You may notice as your pregnancy progresses your baby sometimes jumps at loud noises. This is a good time to consider playing some soothing music for your baby.
Keep in mind during this time in your pregnancy the power of touch if very strong. Your baby can feel your movements and your touch while in the uterus, so take some time each day to rub your belly and tell your baby just how much you love them. This helps comfort your baby and initiates the bonding process between you and baby.
You can also invite your partner to do the same. You'll find this is a wonderful and bonding experience for both of you, especially if your baby decides to start kicking your partner during touch sessions.
http://www.babycenter.com/6_your-pregnancy-17-weeks_1106.bc
Your baby weighs about 5 ounces now, and he's around 5 inches long — about the size of a large onion. He can move his joints, and his skeleton — until now rubbery cartilage — is starting to harden to bone. His sense of hearing is also developing. The umbilical cord, his lifeline to the placenta, is growing stronger and thicker.
http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com/pregnancy_week_17.htm
Your baby is anywhere from 4.4 to 4.8 inches by pregnancy week 17 and weighs almost 3 ½ ounces! If you were to hold your baby at 17 weeks pregnant, she would fit snuggly in the palm of your hand. Your baby is about the size of a small pomegranate by pregnancy 17 weeks.
Your baby during week 17 is now very mobile, gleefully moving his joints here, there and everywhere and will continue to do so as you continue your pregnancy week by week. The cartilage making up the skeleton in your baby's body is starting to transform into bone. At pregnancy 17 weeks time your baby should be hearing things. Your baby will start putting on some layers of fat in the weeks to come, though at this point in time your baby is made up of primarily water.
You may be feeling your baby move intermittently after pregnancy week 17, though as your pregnancy progresses you will likely start feeling your baby move more and more.
There are many natural health practitioners that believe in the power of touch. Though your little one is still very small, your touch may do much to help him feel safe and warm inside the womb. If you haven't started already, you might consider rubbing your 'pooch' in calming circular motions. This will not only help comfort your little one, but will help initiate the bonding process with you and your newborn baby throughout your pregnancy and after.
Other women find comfort when playing music to their unborn children. There is evidence suggesting that your baby responds to music even while in the womb. Thus, there is no harm in playing some calm and engaging music to your baby even while they are in the womb.
And it looks like it is also handy that I start my new job next week:
It is important if you work in a stressful environment that you start taking measures to reduce your stress level. Stress can have a devastating impact on pregnancy and childbirth. There are actually some studies that suggest that stress can contribute to complications during pregnancy, including preterm labor. Some studies have also indicated that high levels of stress particularly between weeks 18 and 20 can result in higher levels of a hormone called corticotropin-releasing hormone, which has been linked to preterm labor. This hormone may promote your body to release prostaglandins, which may result in contractions. Thus it is critical you do everything possible to limit your stress whenever possible.
I had another appointment with the OB. Unfortunately I had my first interaction with a doctor I did not like. Not only did she not talk to me about the baby's heartbeat (nice and strong to my ears) but her attitude was quite hostile. She also told me that I should gain no weight at all for the rest of my pregnancy which is at odds with what all of the other doctors have told me is acceptable. She suggested I follow the Atkins Diet and when I asked for more information on healthy eating without carbs she told me that if I didn't want to change my eating habits for the health of my baby she would help me deal with the health issues later. It was so bizarre to have a doctor with such a bad attitude after everyone else at this office has been so great. I plan to just avoid her in the future. The practice has a large number of doctors and it should be fairly easy to avoid this one doctor and her mean attitude. I plan to do some research on my own and talk to some of my diabetic friends for some diet tips. I do not have gestational diabetes but with my family history I am still at risk. So the idea is that if I start eating now as if I do have gestational diabetes I might be able to delay or stop the onset of gestational diabetes. It was so frustrating to ask the doctor for details on her suggested diet plan only to have her attack me for not being willing to make changes in my diet for the health of my baby. I eat almost nothing but carbs so this is going to be a pretty major change for me. Sigh.
http://www.maternityandbabyshoppingmart.com/pregnancy_week_17.html
By now your baby is quite mobile, and measures in at roughly 4.8 inches long and may be as much as 3.5 ounces! Most babies are roughly the size of your palm by about 17 weeks pregnant. Your baby is quite mobile by this point in time, happily swimming about your uterus. This will change in the upcoming weeks as your baby starts putting on pounds and the space inside your uterus becomes increasingly cluttered.
From roughly pregnancy week 17 on your baby starts hearing things in the outside world. You may notice as your pregnancy progresses your baby sometimes jumps at loud noises. This is a good time to consider playing some soothing music for your baby.
Keep in mind during this time in your pregnancy the power of touch if very strong. Your baby can feel your movements and your touch while in the uterus, so take some time each day to rub your belly and tell your baby just how much you love them. This helps comfort your baby and initiates the bonding process between you and baby.
You can also invite your partner to do the same. You'll find this is a wonderful and bonding experience for both of you, especially if your baby decides to start kicking your partner during touch sessions.
http://www.babycenter.com/6_your-pregnancy-17-weeks_1106.bc
Your baby weighs about 5 ounces now, and he's around 5 inches long — about the size of a large onion. He can move his joints, and his skeleton — until now rubbery cartilage — is starting to harden to bone. His sense of hearing is also developing. The umbilical cord, his lifeline to the placenta, is growing stronger and thicker.
http://www.womenshealthcaretopics.com/pregnancy_week_17.htm
Your baby is anywhere from 4.4 to 4.8 inches by pregnancy week 17 and weighs almost 3 ½ ounces! If you were to hold your baby at 17 weeks pregnant, she would fit snuggly in the palm of your hand. Your baby is about the size of a small pomegranate by pregnancy 17 weeks.
Your baby during week 17 is now very mobile, gleefully moving his joints here, there and everywhere and will continue to do so as you continue your pregnancy week by week. The cartilage making up the skeleton in your baby's body is starting to transform into bone. At pregnancy 17 weeks time your baby should be hearing things. Your baby will start putting on some layers of fat in the weeks to come, though at this point in time your baby is made up of primarily water.
You may be feeling your baby move intermittently after pregnancy week 17, though as your pregnancy progresses you will likely start feeling your baby move more and more.
There are many natural health practitioners that believe in the power of touch. Though your little one is still very small, your touch may do much to help him feel safe and warm inside the womb. If you haven't started already, you might consider rubbing your 'pooch' in calming circular motions. This will not only help comfort your little one, but will help initiate the bonding process with you and your newborn baby throughout your pregnancy and after.
Other women find comfort when playing music to their unborn children. There is evidence suggesting that your baby responds to music even while in the womb. Thus, there is no harm in playing some calm and engaging music to your baby even while they are in the womb.
And it looks like it is also handy that I start my new job next week:
It is important if you work in a stressful environment that you start taking measures to reduce your stress level. Stress can have a devastating impact on pregnancy and childbirth. There are actually some studies that suggest that stress can contribute to complications during pregnancy, including preterm labor. Some studies have also indicated that high levels of stress particularly between weeks 18 and 20 can result in higher levels of a hormone called corticotropin-releasing hormone, which has been linked to preterm labor. This hormone may promote your body to release prostaglandins, which may result in contractions. Thus it is critical you do everything possible to limit your stress whenever possible.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
16 Weeks = Avocado Baby
This morning I weighed myself and I'm still 2.5 pounds down from my pre-pregnancy weight. At my last check in I was the same weight and they were happy with it. So I'm going to assume it is fine until a doctor tells me to worry. I know the baby is taking whatever he needs to grow and be healthy. I'm struggling with some tiredness and I am assuming that is related to my inability to put on any weight. I have had a head cold for most of the week but I seem to be almost over that now. My morning sickness is reduced to puking a few mornings a week. The food aversions are mostly gone which is good news. My most frequent craving has been for shepherd's pie. I'm happy it is for something I actually like and know how to make!
And here's the 16 week update from the web:
http://www.babycenter.com/6_your-pregnancy-16-weeks_1105.bc
How your baby's growing:At 4 1/2 inches long (head to bottom) and 3 1/2 ounces, your baby is about the size of an avocado. In the next three weeks, she'll go through a tremendous growth spurt, though, doubling her weight and adding inches to her length. Her lower limbs are much more developed now. Her head is more erect than it has been, and her eyes have moved toward the front of her head. Your baby's ears are close to their final position, too. Some of her more advanced body systems are working, including her circulatory system and urinary tract. Her heart is now pumping about 25 quarts of blood each day, circulating her total blood volume through her body many times. (By the end of your pregnancy, this will increase to about 190 quarts.) The patterning of her scalp has begun, though her hair isn't recognizable yet. Although closed, her eyes are moving (slowly), and she's even started growing toenails.
http://pregnancy.baby-gaga.com/calendar/week16
Over the past three weeks your astounding growing baby has managed to stretch yet another 2 full inches (totaling about 4.5 inches) and weighs around 3.5 ounces. Yessireee, that’s some pretty serious growth... and with it comes several physical developments! For starters, their head to body ratio is finally starting to even out a bit as the rest of the body is actually growing faster than the head at this point. Yes, your little light bulb is not so top-heavy. Their adorable little limbs have lengthened, almost reaching their normal proportions which they will have at birth. Their eyes are still closed but moving and if you had an ultrasound, which many doctors recommend you have at about this time, you may even see your little one sucking on a thumb, not to mention the necessary signifiers to let you know whether you’ve got a wee lad or lassie.
http://www.pregnancy-weekbyweek.com/pregnancy-week-16.htm
Your Baby
By pregnancy week 16 your baby is more than 4.5 inches long and may weigh almost 3 ounces.
Changes In Your Growing Baby
Your baby is planning on a huge growth spurt in the upcoming weeks. During pregnancy week 16 your baby has grown strong enough to hold his head straighter. Your baby's eyes and ears are moving into their final position and your baby is focusing much of her energy on her circulation system. By week 16 pregnancy your baby's heart is pumping roughly 25 quarts of blood each day!
During pregnancy at 16 weeks your baby starts growing fine hair on the tope of his head, though some babies will be born very bald despite their best efforts. The color of your baby's hair and even your baby's eyes may change shortly after birth. Many babies are born with blonde hair for example that falls out and turns brown a short time after birth. Still others are born with brown eyes that turn blue within a month or two after birth! Your baby will continue to amaze you in the weeks following pregnancy.
And here's the 16 week update from the web:
http://www.babycenter.com/6_your-pregnancy-16-weeks_1105.bc
How your baby's growing:At 4 1/2 inches long (head to bottom) and 3 1/2 ounces, your baby is about the size of an avocado. In the next three weeks, she'll go through a tremendous growth spurt, though, doubling her weight and adding inches to her length. Her lower limbs are much more developed now. Her head is more erect than it has been, and her eyes have moved toward the front of her head. Your baby's ears are close to their final position, too. Some of her more advanced body systems are working, including her circulatory system and urinary tract. Her heart is now pumping about 25 quarts of blood each day, circulating her total blood volume through her body many times. (By the end of your pregnancy, this will increase to about 190 quarts.) The patterning of her scalp has begun, though her hair isn't recognizable yet. Although closed, her eyes are moving (slowly), and she's even started growing toenails.
http://pregnancy.baby-gaga.com/calendar/week16
Over the past three weeks your astounding growing baby has managed to stretch yet another 2 full inches (totaling about 4.5 inches) and weighs around 3.5 ounces. Yessireee, that’s some pretty serious growth... and with it comes several physical developments! For starters, their head to body ratio is finally starting to even out a bit as the rest of the body is actually growing faster than the head at this point. Yes, your little light bulb is not so top-heavy. Their adorable little limbs have lengthened, almost reaching their normal proportions which they will have at birth. Their eyes are still closed but moving and if you had an ultrasound, which many doctors recommend you have at about this time, you may even see your little one sucking on a thumb, not to mention the necessary signifiers to let you know whether you’ve got a wee lad or lassie.
http://www.pregnancy-weekbyweek.com/pregnancy-week-16.htm
Your Baby
By pregnancy week 16 your baby is more than 4.5 inches long and may weigh almost 3 ounces.
Changes In Your Growing Baby
Your baby is planning on a huge growth spurt in the upcoming weeks. During pregnancy week 16 your baby has grown strong enough to hold his head straighter. Your baby's eyes and ears are moving into their final position and your baby is focusing much of her energy on her circulation system. By week 16 pregnancy your baby's heart is pumping roughly 25 quarts of blood each day!
During pregnancy at 16 weeks your baby starts growing fine hair on the tope of his head, though some babies will be born very bald despite their best efforts. The color of your baby's hair and even your baby's eyes may change shortly after birth. Many babies are born with blonde hair for example that falls out and turns brown a short time after birth. Still others are born with brown eyes that turn blue within a month or two after birth! Your baby will continue to amaze you in the weeks following pregnancy.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Movement!!!
I just felt the baby move! I was telling a friend about how it is possible I could feel the baby move this week, and then I decided to give it a try. I ate breakfast around 8.30 so it is pretty soon after a meal and that apparently makes the baby active. So I leaned back and put a little pressure on where the baby is. And the baby reacted. I felt a little fluttering! It is so very cool. I can't wait for Mark to be able to feel the baby move too, but for right now I'll enjoy knowing that the baby is moving around in there.
15 weeks - Stick of Butter!!!
Still 2 pounds down, still feeling exhausted sometimes, and still puking sometimes. I also had my first big headache since getting pregnant. I think the headache is what is making me extra tired this week. I have been mostly feeling better.
One of my books highlighted week 15 as the week the baby would start to look "less fish-like" as the eyes move around to the front of the head. The baby is now somewhere around 4 to 4.5 inches long. A stick of butter is just a little longer than 4 inches....
Here's some other scoop on what is happening at 15 weeks...
http://www.babycenter.com/6_your-pregnancy-15-weeks_1104.bc
How your baby's growing:At around 4 inches long, crown to rump, your baby now weighs about 2 1/2 ounces. He's busy inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid, which will help develop the air sacs in his lungs. His legs are growing longer than his arms now, and he can move all his joints and limbs. That means his hands are more functional, too. Sweat glands are appearing, and although his eyelids are fused shut, he can sense light. If you shine a flashlight at your tummy, he's likely to move away from the beam. There's not much for your baby to taste at this point, but his taste buds are beginning to form. And if you have an ultrasound, you may be able to find out whether your baby's a boy or girl! (Don't be disappointed if it remains a mystery, though. Nailing down the sex depends somewhat on how clear the picture is and the position of your baby during the ultrasound; he may be curled or turned in such a way as to keep you in suspense.)
http://pregnancy.baby-gaga.com/calendar/week15
Your nearly four-inch long gymnast is happily mobile inside your womb and if you're really lucky, you’ll notice a point when your sneezing, coughing or laughing results in a little kick here or a poke there. Still, many women don't feel anything until the 17th week or later. Although the poking and kicking isn't very charming during sleeping hours, it’s a good sign as it means your baby is actually reacting to outside events. Yay! You’ve got yourself one active healthy baby! Their little elbows and knees are bending more freely this week and their little legs are finally growing longer than their arms and getting pumped up for prenatal Richard Simmons. Many of their major organ systems are increasing in capacity—particularly that amazing tiny heart and complex circulation system, which is now pumping about 25 quarts of blood per day, and will increase to a very impressive 200 quarts per day by the end of the pregnancy. As far as hair goes, we’ve got some new scalp patterns beginning to develop on the head, although actual head hair is not yet present.
http://www.maternityandbabyshoppingmart.com/pregnancy_week_15.html
Congratulations! During pregnancy week 15 your baby is a whopping 4.5 inches long (roughly) and may weigh as much as 1 ½ ounces. While this doesn't sound like much it is a significant change from the tiny being your baby was just a few short weeks ago. Remember each week of your pregnancy from here on out your baby continues to grow at an amazing pace.
During pregnancy week 15 specifically your baby is working hard to grow blood vessels. During pregnancy week 15 and beyond a fine substance called lanugo begins to cover your baby's body, except for her palms, soles of her feet, lips, genitals and nails. Most babies will have lanugo until roughly the eighth month of pregnancy when this fine substance starts to shed. Some babies however will have a little lanugo even at birth.
This fine hair helps protect your baby's body. Did you know some baby's start sucking their thumb as early as pregnancy week 15? It's true! Your baby's bones are also becoming harder during pregnancy week 15. By this time your baby is filling his days practicing inhaling and exhaling. While your baby's lungs are far from developed, this practice is very important for their birth day!
One of my books highlighted week 15 as the week the baby would start to look "less fish-like" as the eyes move around to the front of the head. The baby is now somewhere around 4 to 4.5 inches long. A stick of butter is just a little longer than 4 inches....
Here's some other scoop on what is happening at 15 weeks...
http://www.babycenter.com/6_your-pregnancy-15-weeks_1104.bc
How your baby's growing:At around 4 inches long, crown to rump, your baby now weighs about 2 1/2 ounces. He's busy inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid, which will help develop the air sacs in his lungs. His legs are growing longer than his arms now, and he can move all his joints and limbs. That means his hands are more functional, too. Sweat glands are appearing, and although his eyelids are fused shut, he can sense light. If you shine a flashlight at your tummy, he's likely to move away from the beam. There's not much for your baby to taste at this point, but his taste buds are beginning to form. And if you have an ultrasound, you may be able to find out whether your baby's a boy or girl! (Don't be disappointed if it remains a mystery, though. Nailing down the sex depends somewhat on how clear the picture is and the position of your baby during the ultrasound; he may be curled or turned in such a way as to keep you in suspense.)
http://pregnancy.baby-gaga.com/calendar/week15
Your nearly four-inch long gymnast is happily mobile inside your womb and if you're really lucky, you’ll notice a point when your sneezing, coughing or laughing results in a little kick here or a poke there. Still, many women don't feel anything until the 17th week or later. Although the poking and kicking isn't very charming during sleeping hours, it’s a good sign as it means your baby is actually reacting to outside events. Yay! You’ve got yourself one active healthy baby! Their little elbows and knees are bending more freely this week and their little legs are finally growing longer than their arms and getting pumped up for prenatal Richard Simmons. Many of their major organ systems are increasing in capacity—particularly that amazing tiny heart and complex circulation system, which is now pumping about 25 quarts of blood per day, and will increase to a very impressive 200 quarts per day by the end of the pregnancy. As far as hair goes, we’ve got some new scalp patterns beginning to develop on the head, although actual head hair is not yet present.
http://www.maternityandbabyshoppingmart.com/pregnancy_week_15.html
Congratulations! During pregnancy week 15 your baby is a whopping 4.5 inches long (roughly) and may weigh as much as 1 ½ ounces. While this doesn't sound like much it is a significant change from the tiny being your baby was just a few short weeks ago. Remember each week of your pregnancy from here on out your baby continues to grow at an amazing pace.
During pregnancy week 15 specifically your baby is working hard to grow blood vessels. During pregnancy week 15 and beyond a fine substance called lanugo begins to cover your baby's body, except for her palms, soles of her feet, lips, genitals and nails. Most babies will have lanugo until roughly the eighth month of pregnancy when this fine substance starts to shed. Some babies however will have a little lanugo even at birth.
This fine hair helps protect your baby's body. Did you know some baby's start sucking their thumb as early as pregnancy week 15? It's true! Your baby's bones are also becoming harder during pregnancy week 15. By this time your baby is filling his days practicing inhaling and exhaling. While your baby's lungs are far from developed, this practice is very important for their birth day!
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
No Gestational Diabetes!!
Yay! I passed!!! 3 hour test showed no problems! Woo hoo!
And they think the low blood sugar that I usually have (the reason you don’t want me to miss a meal because I get mean) could have made me have a particularly bad reaction to the one hour test. She recommended I eat more often to keep my blood sugar more even and to try to stave off the morning sickness (which is aggravated by low blood sugar).
And they think the low blood sugar that I usually have (the reason you don’t want me to miss a meal because I get mean) could have made me have a particularly bad reaction to the one hour test. She recommended I eat more often to keep my blood sugar more even and to try to stave off the morning sickness (which is aggravated by low blood sugar).
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
3 hour glucose test
Yesterday was the 3 hour glucose test. This time we had prepared an alternate transportation plan in case I was sick like during the 1 hour glucose test. Luckily this time I had just some mild sickness during the first hour. By the time the test was over I was bored but didn't feel sick at all. It takes a few days for the test results to come back. At this point I am hoping that the bad reaction the first time around was due to the first drink having red food dye. Although I still failed the first test. Here's hoping going without food from midnight on Sunday to 2pm on Monday was worth it... :)
Friday, September 21, 2007
14 weeks and 1 day
I was in an all day meeting yesterday and missed out on my chance to do the 14 week update.
I'm definitely showing now. None of my pre-pregnancy clothes fit. I am very lucky to have so many good friends who have loaned me their maternity clothes. The extreme fatigue and morning sickness are getting better although today was definitely not a good day for me. I was pretty much sick all day. I'm still 2 pounds below my pre-pregnancy weight but as long as the baby is growing well I'm not going to worry about it. I am just going to try to eat meals with positive nutritional value whenever possible.
Here's the scoop on what's going on at 14 weeks:
http://www.babycenter.com/6_your-pregnancy-14-weeks_1103.bc
How your baby's growing:Head to bottom, your baby's 3 1/2 inches long — about the length of a lemon — and weighs about 1 1/2 ounces. Her body's growing faster than her head, which now sits upon a more well-defined neck. By the end of this week, her arms will have lengthened and will be in proportion to the rest of her body. (Her legs still have some growing to do, though.) She's starting to develop an ultra-fine, downy covering of hair all over her body (called lanugo). Her liver starts secreting bile this week, a sign that it's already functioning properly, and her spleen starts contributing to the production of red blood cells. She's also producing and discharging urine into the amniotic fluid, a normal process that she'll keep up until birth. You still can't feel your baby's movements, but her hands and feet (which are now half an inch long) are more flexible and active. Thanks to brain impulses, her little facial muscles are getting a workout as she squints, frowns, and grimaces. She can grasp now, too, and she may be able to suck her thumb.
http://pregnancyandbaby.com/pregnancy/baby/Pregnancy-Week-14-4853.htm
What your baby's up toYour baby's body systems are starting to work on their own. His digestive system practices moving food along the intestines and the renal system as he creates and eliminates urine. He also continues to practice "breathing" the amniotic fluid in and out of its lungs. Your baby is still growing hair and may have begun to suck his thumb. Your baby is approximately 10-11.5 cm (3 1/2 - 4 inches) and weighs approximately 1.5 ounces.
Also, your baby's blood is beginning to form in the bone marrow and blood vessels are beginning to form on various parts of the fetus, connecting one to another. The joints and muscles allow your baby full body movement so your baby is able to move around more. Your baby's neck is getting longer and his chin is no longer resting on his chest. The eyes and ears continue to move into place as he continues to look more and more like a human. The hands are becoming functional and reflex movements often occur. All nourishment to your baby goes from you, to the placenta straight to your baby, so remember, some of what you eat and drink is getting through to baby. It is still to early to tell by ultrasound if you are having a boy or a girl, but the doctor could tell using special tests.
Amniotic fluid is an amazing substance as it completely regenerates itself every three hours. All we really knows about amniotic fluid is that it is partially composed of urine from the baby, but where amniotic fluid in general is made we are not sure. Modern medicine still has some surprises left.
I'm definitely showing now. None of my pre-pregnancy clothes fit. I am very lucky to have so many good friends who have loaned me their maternity clothes. The extreme fatigue and morning sickness are getting better although today was definitely not a good day for me. I was pretty much sick all day. I'm still 2 pounds below my pre-pregnancy weight but as long as the baby is growing well I'm not going to worry about it. I am just going to try to eat meals with positive nutritional value whenever possible.
Here's the scoop on what's going on at 14 weeks:
http://www.babycenter.com/6_your-pregnancy-14-weeks_1103.bc
How your baby's growing:Head to bottom, your baby's 3 1/2 inches long — about the length of a lemon — and weighs about 1 1/2 ounces. Her body's growing faster than her head, which now sits upon a more well-defined neck. By the end of this week, her arms will have lengthened and will be in proportion to the rest of her body. (Her legs still have some growing to do, though.) She's starting to develop an ultra-fine, downy covering of hair all over her body (called lanugo). Her liver starts secreting bile this week, a sign that it's already functioning properly, and her spleen starts contributing to the production of red blood cells. She's also producing and discharging urine into the amniotic fluid, a normal process that she'll keep up until birth. You still can't feel your baby's movements, but her hands and feet (which are now half an inch long) are more flexible and active. Thanks to brain impulses, her little facial muscles are getting a workout as she squints, frowns, and grimaces. She can grasp now, too, and she may be able to suck her thumb.
http://pregnancyandbaby.com/pregnancy/baby/Pregnancy-Week-14-4853.htm
What your baby's up toYour baby's body systems are starting to work on their own. His digestive system practices moving food along the intestines and the renal system as he creates and eliminates urine. He also continues to practice "breathing" the amniotic fluid in and out of its lungs. Your baby is still growing hair and may have begun to suck his thumb. Your baby is approximately 10-11.5 cm (3 1/2 - 4 inches) and weighs approximately 1.5 ounces.
Also, your baby's blood is beginning to form in the bone marrow and blood vessels are beginning to form on various parts of the fetus, connecting one to another. The joints and muscles allow your baby full body movement so your baby is able to move around more. Your baby's neck is getting longer and his chin is no longer resting on his chest. The eyes and ears continue to move into place as he continues to look more and more like a human. The hands are becoming functional and reflex movements often occur. All nourishment to your baby goes from you, to the placenta straight to your baby, so remember, some of what you eat and drink is getting through to baby. It is still to early to tell by ultrasound if you are having a boy or a girl, but the doctor could tell using special tests.
Amniotic fluid is an amazing substance as it completely regenerates itself every three hours. All we really knows about amniotic fluid is that it is partially composed of urine from the baby, but where amniotic fluid in general is made we are not sure. Modern medicine still has some surprises left.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
13 weeks
The morning sickness has not magically gone away. Today was actually one of the worst mornings yet. Here's hoping the days are going to get better in the next few days.
Here's some info on how things are at 13 weeks...
http://parenting.ivillage.com/pregnancy/0,,nc26-11,00.html
WHAT'S HAPPENING WITH YOU
The second trimester is sometimes referred to as the "honeymoon of pregnancy." This is because women often regain energy, with much of the arduous work of organ development now almost complete.
As you enter your second trimester, your nausea most likely has faded into a memory. (If you had to stop taking prenatal vitamins during this time, you should begin to take them again as soon as possible.)
You may feel absolutely wonderful. You aren't yet subject to the physical discomforts that may appear in the later weeks of pregnancy and you may finally feel ready to reveal your long-held secret to the world.
WHAT'S HAPPENING WITH YOUR BABY
Measuring in at about seven centimeters crown-to-rump and weighing about two ounces, your baby-to-be will spend the rest of the pregnancy concentrating on growing and becoming strong enough to live outside the uterus. Your baby's intestines have now moved from outside the body to inside the abdomen. While your baby won't be saying "Mommy" for some time, vocal cords are now developing. Your fetus also has developed many reflexes and will squirm inside of you if your abdomen is prodded.
http://www.babiesonline.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/week13.asp
Your Baby:
There is a lot going on with your baby this week. Your baby's intestines are migrating from the umbilical cord into his or her abdomen. The villi are also forming in the intestines, and these help in peristaltic movements and digestion. The liver begins to secrete bile and the pancreas is even secreting insulin! All twenty teeth have formed and are waiting under the gums, while your baby has begun to practice swallowing by taking in the surrounding amniotic fluid and pass it back in his urine. Your baby can smile and his vocal cords are quickly developing, too. He looks more and more human as his eyes move closer together and the ears are beginning to move to what will be their normal positions. Your baby weighs between approximately 13 and 20 grams (½ and ¾ ounce) and is approximately 2½ to 3 inches long. The placenta and baby are about the same weight now.
This week marks the end of the embryonic period. Most of the vital systems are developed now, and baby starts really growing, at times, growing as much as an inch this week.
http://www.babiesonline.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/week13.asp
How your baby's growing:Your belly may soon be big enough to announce to the world that you're expecting, but your baby is still tiny. In fact, he's only about 3 inches long crown to rump — roughly the size of a jumbo shrimp — and weighs just about an ounce. Despite the small proportions, there's a fully formed baby inside your womb now. Much more proportional than it was a few weeks ago, his head is now only about a third the size of his body. His tiny, unique fingerprints are already in place. His kidneys and urinary tract are functional, and he's starting to urinate out the amniotic fluid he's been swallowing. As you start your second trimester, most of your baby's critical development will be completed, and your odds of miscarriage will drop considerably.
Here's some info on how things are at 13 weeks...
http://parenting.ivillage.com/pregnancy/0,,nc26-11,00.html
WHAT'S HAPPENING WITH YOU
The second trimester is sometimes referred to as the "honeymoon of pregnancy." This is because women often regain energy, with much of the arduous work of organ development now almost complete.
As you enter your second trimester, your nausea most likely has faded into a memory. (If you had to stop taking prenatal vitamins during this time, you should begin to take them again as soon as possible.)
You may feel absolutely wonderful. You aren't yet subject to the physical discomforts that may appear in the later weeks of pregnancy and you may finally feel ready to reveal your long-held secret to the world.
WHAT'S HAPPENING WITH YOUR BABY
Measuring in at about seven centimeters crown-to-rump and weighing about two ounces, your baby-to-be will spend the rest of the pregnancy concentrating on growing and becoming strong enough to live outside the uterus. Your baby's intestines have now moved from outside the body to inside the abdomen. While your baby won't be saying "Mommy" for some time, vocal cords are now developing. Your fetus also has developed many reflexes and will squirm inside of you if your abdomen is prodded.
http://www.babiesonline.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/week13.asp
Your Baby:
There is a lot going on with your baby this week. Your baby's intestines are migrating from the umbilical cord into his or her abdomen. The villi are also forming in the intestines, and these help in peristaltic movements and digestion. The liver begins to secrete bile and the pancreas is even secreting insulin! All twenty teeth have formed and are waiting under the gums, while your baby has begun to practice swallowing by taking in the surrounding amniotic fluid and pass it back in his urine. Your baby can smile and his vocal cords are quickly developing, too. He looks more and more human as his eyes move closer together and the ears are beginning to move to what will be their normal positions. Your baby weighs between approximately 13 and 20 grams (½ and ¾ ounce) and is approximately 2½ to 3 inches long. The placenta and baby are about the same weight now.
This week marks the end of the embryonic period. Most of the vital systems are developed now, and baby starts really growing, at times, growing as much as an inch this week.
http://www.babiesonline.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/week13.asp
How your baby's growing:Your belly may soon be big enough to announce to the world that you're expecting, but your baby is still tiny. In fact, he's only about 3 inches long crown to rump — roughly the size of a jumbo shrimp — and weighs just about an ounce. Despite the small proportions, there's a fully formed baby inside your womb now. Much more proportional than it was a few weeks ago, his head is now only about a third the size of his body. His tiny, unique fingerprints are already in place. His kidneys and urinary tract are functional, and he's starting to urinate out the amniotic fluid he's been swallowing. As you start your second trimester, most of your baby's critical development will be completed, and your odds of miscarriage will drop considerably.
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Second Sonogram
We had our second sonogram today. The baby seems healthy and active. We were able to see and hear the heartbeat again. The baby also flipped around between picture taking sessions (they had to do three different types of sonograms today). They also did a little bloodwork while I was there. We go back for another sonogram around 20 weeks to find out if it is a boy or a girl. We are going to try to schedule that for before the wedding so that we can give a good answer at the wedding to that frequently asked question. They seemed pretty pleased that I am still down 3 pounds from my pre-pregnancy weight. I came home to have some ice cream to celebrate. :) The crown to rump length is now over 6cm, up from 3cm during the sonogram two weeks ago. I have my follow up doctor's appointment tomorrow morning.
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Twelve Weeks
http://parenting.ivillage.com/pregnancy/0,,nc26-10,00.html
Your baby-to-be is now 60 to 65 millimeters long or about two and a half inches long, and weighs about 14 grams. He or she has the ability to swallow and absorb and discharge fluids. Hands, now complete, are growing fingernails. Even tooth buds are appearing. Your baby's face now has a distinctly human appearance.
http://www.pregnancy-info.net/babydevelopment_12.html
Now that you are 12 weeks pregnant, your baby already weighs 14 grams, has reflexes and because of muscular development, can even move its limbs! You would now be able to hear your baby's heart beat with the aid of a Doppler, which your practitioner should have. Your baby's heart rate will be very fast, at about 160 beats per minute.
You'll also now notice a face profile, complete with a tiny chin and nose. The baby is now able to swallow, and its tiny fingernails and toenails are forming.
http://www.babiesonline.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/week12.asp
By now, nearly all of your baby's organs, structures and systems are fully formed. The heart begins pumping several quarts of blood through your baby's body every day. Your baby has also begun to develop nerves and a spinal cord, allowing him to feel some types of pain. While your baby's brain is not the same size it will be at birth, it does have the same structure. Fingers and toes have separated and hair and nails continue to grow. Your baby is approximately 2.5 - 3.5 inches and weighs about 12 - 14 grams.
Also, the external genitals can now show definite signs of male and female gender. Before, Where there was only reflex movement, your baby now moves spontaneously and at random, although his movements are still too slight to be felt. With the use of a Doppler, you may be able to hear your baby's heart beat at this office visit. It will sound very fast, similar to the sound of a running horse’s hooves. Once you hear this sound, you can rest assured that your risk of miscarriage is greatly reduced.
http://pregnancy.baby-gaga.com/calendar/week12
Even though your little Einstein’s body is still growing quite rapidly 2 inches long right now, the overall super-speedy growth of their amazing brain continues to leave the head proportionately larger than the body— and is actually slightly more than one third of their total body mass! The head and neck are still straightening at this point as can be seen by their little chin lifting off of the chest. Your baby is also actively rehearsing “breathing” by using amniotic fluid to prepare the lungs for future air respiration.
The big news: your little pooper is now officially going to need diapers! Although a majority of the waste produced is transferred to the mother’s system for discharge (to avoid having it linger in the amniotic sac), some urine is released to the amniotic fluid and your baby will actually breathe it in before it passing it on to your for discharge. Not to worry, urine--in this particular form, is completely harmless to your baby.
Your baby-to-be is now 60 to 65 millimeters long or about two and a half inches long, and weighs about 14 grams. He or she has the ability to swallow and absorb and discharge fluids. Hands, now complete, are growing fingernails. Even tooth buds are appearing. Your baby's face now has a distinctly human appearance.
http://www.pregnancy-info.net/babydevelopment_12.html
Now that you are 12 weeks pregnant, your baby already weighs 14 grams, has reflexes and because of muscular development, can even move its limbs! You would now be able to hear your baby's heart beat with the aid of a Doppler, which your practitioner should have. Your baby's heart rate will be very fast, at about 160 beats per minute.
You'll also now notice a face profile, complete with a tiny chin and nose. The baby is now able to swallow, and its tiny fingernails and toenails are forming.
http://www.babiesonline.com/pregnancy/week-by-week/week12.asp
By now, nearly all of your baby's organs, structures and systems are fully formed. The heart begins pumping several quarts of blood through your baby's body every day. Your baby has also begun to develop nerves and a spinal cord, allowing him to feel some types of pain. While your baby's brain is not the same size it will be at birth, it does have the same structure. Fingers and toes have separated and hair and nails continue to grow. Your baby is approximately 2.5 - 3.5 inches and weighs about 12 - 14 grams.
Also, the external genitals can now show definite signs of male and female gender. Before, Where there was only reflex movement, your baby now moves spontaneously and at random, although his movements are still too slight to be felt. With the use of a Doppler, you may be able to hear your baby's heart beat at this office visit. It will sound very fast, similar to the sound of a running horse’s hooves. Once you hear this sound, you can rest assured that your risk of miscarriage is greatly reduced.
http://pregnancy.baby-gaga.com/calendar/week12
Even though your little Einstein’s body is still growing quite rapidly 2 inches long right now, the overall super-speedy growth of their amazing brain continues to leave the head proportionately larger than the body— and is actually slightly more than one third of their total body mass! The head and neck are still straightening at this point as can be seen by their little chin lifting off of the chest. Your baby is also actively rehearsing “breathing” by using amniotic fluid to prepare the lungs for future air respiration.
The big news: your little pooper is now officially going to need diapers! Although a majority of the waste produced is transferred to the mother’s system for discharge (to avoid having it linger in the amniotic sac), some urine is released to the amniotic fluid and your baby will actually breathe it in before it passing it on to your for discharge. Not to worry, urine--in this particular form, is completely harmless to your baby.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
The first sonogram
This was our first sonogram. I was 10 weeks and 5 days pregnant at this point and the baby's Crown to Rump length was 3.73cm. Hope and Kyle and then later Steve all said the baby looks like a South Park character. The baby was about the size of a kumquat at that point. The baby is now the size of a small plum (heading into the size of a nice sized fig tomorrow) leading to me deciding to call her (or him, if Mark is right) The Sugar Plum. During the next 3 weeks the baby will double in size.
First Post
Hi Everyone!
I decided to start a blog for the baby with the general details everyone wants to know...
We don't have a lot of info for you yet, but I'm happy to share what we've got!
Due Date: March 20, 2008.
We had our first sonogram last Tuesday and we were able to see the baby pretty clearly. One baby. One strong heartbeat. It was amazing to actually see the heart beating and to hear the heartbeat and to realize that it really is happening!
We have another sonogram next Tuesday to do a screening test we weren't able to do the last time around. The good news is that we are having another sonogram. The bad news is that I will be over 12 weeks pregnant so that means that one hour before our appointment I have to drink 32 ounces of water and then hold it until after the sonogram is over. And it may take as long as 2 hours to complete the test. The baby has to be in a neutral position instead of curled into the fetal position and some babies do not cooperate and relax into the neutral position. But then again, some babies complete the test in 1o minutes or less. We scheduled it for 2.30 to give plenty of time to do the test and still get the kids from daycare on time.
I'm also really lucky to have a flexible boss and flexible work hours with telework. I'm going to be able to go to the sonogram and then come home and finish up my work day. At this point I have just 4 weeks of leave possible when the baby is due. Every hour I spend on sick leave or vacation now is an hour of leave I wont' have after the baby is born. Being able to move my hours around to avoid taking leave during doctor appointments is a great help.
As of today I am still 1.5 pounds below my pre-pregnancy weight. I am almost out of the first trimester (8 days to go) and I am hoping that the start of the second trimester brings with it the end of the extreme fatigue and morning sickness. I've been pretty lucky with the morning sickness. I've had several bouts of extreme sickness and quite a lot of general queasy feelings. But I hear stories of other women who are very sick every day and can't keep anything down. I have a bigger problem with food aversion than with anything else, leading to me not eating. I've been taking my vitamins almost every day and trying to eat wisely when I can. But I'll admit that there are some days when the only thing I can eat are Little Debbies. But at least I'm eating something. Breakfast tends to be my best meal of the day so I try to have eggs or something else with positive nutritional value to start the day.
We have started working on the baby registry stuff. I know that I want the Graco "Disney Days of Hunny" stroller, high chair, and pack and play. The only place so far that has that is Walmart. I'm going to keep looking to see if we can register for that somewhere else. We don't need a swing because we are going to be able to borrow a swing that has seen many Delt through their early months. And we will register more fully at babysrus for things we think we need. Eeyore is always a good thing tho. :) I'll post details of the registries once they are really up to date and ready to go.
I decided to start a blog for the baby with the general details everyone wants to know...
We don't have a lot of info for you yet, but I'm happy to share what we've got!
Due Date: March 20, 2008.
We had our first sonogram last Tuesday and we were able to see the baby pretty clearly. One baby. One strong heartbeat. It was amazing to actually see the heart beating and to hear the heartbeat and to realize that it really is happening!
We have another sonogram next Tuesday to do a screening test we weren't able to do the last time around. The good news is that we are having another sonogram. The bad news is that I will be over 12 weeks pregnant so that means that one hour before our appointment I have to drink 32 ounces of water and then hold it until after the sonogram is over. And it may take as long as 2 hours to complete the test. The baby has to be in a neutral position instead of curled into the fetal position and some babies do not cooperate and relax into the neutral position. But then again, some babies complete the test in 1o minutes or less. We scheduled it for 2.30 to give plenty of time to do the test and still get the kids from daycare on time.
I'm also really lucky to have a flexible boss and flexible work hours with telework. I'm going to be able to go to the sonogram and then come home and finish up my work day. At this point I have just 4 weeks of leave possible when the baby is due. Every hour I spend on sick leave or vacation now is an hour of leave I wont' have after the baby is born. Being able to move my hours around to avoid taking leave during doctor appointments is a great help.
As of today I am still 1.5 pounds below my pre-pregnancy weight. I am almost out of the first trimester (8 days to go) and I am hoping that the start of the second trimester brings with it the end of the extreme fatigue and morning sickness. I've been pretty lucky with the morning sickness. I've had several bouts of extreme sickness and quite a lot of general queasy feelings. But I hear stories of other women who are very sick every day and can't keep anything down. I have a bigger problem with food aversion than with anything else, leading to me not eating. I've been taking my vitamins almost every day and trying to eat wisely when I can. But I'll admit that there are some days when the only thing I can eat are Little Debbies. But at least I'm eating something. Breakfast tends to be my best meal of the day so I try to have eggs or something else with positive nutritional value to start the day.
We have started working on the baby registry stuff. I know that I want the Graco "Disney Days of Hunny" stroller, high chair, and pack and play. The only place so far that has that is Walmart. I'm going to keep looking to see if we can register for that somewhere else. We don't need a swing because we are going to be able to borrow a swing that has seen many Delt through their early months. And we will register more fully at babysrus for things we think we need. Eeyore is always a good thing tho. :) I'll post details of the registries once they are really up to date and ready to go.
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