Little Man’s birth story

We had just gotten home from Easter at my grandmas house. I had changed into my PJ’s and laid on the couch to watch Home Makeover. My sister had just gotten here and came into the living room to ask me a question. I partially sat up and got a really sharp pain, after the pain passed I went to sit up the rest of the way and felt a huge gush. This was at 8:15pm.

I wasn’t really sure what to do as I wasn’t having any contractions so I called my OB’s office and left a message. Mr.B and I finished getting things around that I couldn’t pack before hand and decided to just head to the hospital. I called my mom to meet us there. On the way to the hospital I had 1 contraction but still continued to have gushes of water, and it felt so gross so I was more worried about that, lol.

Once we arrived at the hospital they put me in a triage room and checked me. I was only dilated to a 1 and still not really having contractions. But since my water broke they said I had to deliver within 18hrs or I would need a dose of antibiotics. So we began walking the halls. Every hour they hooked me up to a monitor for 15 mins to check baby’s heart rate and my contractions. They were going to let me walk or whatever I wanted until 3am when they would check me again. If I hadn’t progressed they were going to give me something. If I was progressing I would just continue on my own.

At 3 am they checked me and I was 3cm dilated. So they let me continue on my own. Since I had been awake since 8am the day before I decided I should try and sleep some because I knew it was going to be a long day. But then my contractions starting coming more often and stronger so I didn’t get any sleep. I was having terrible back labor.

At 6am they checked me and I had only progressed to a 4 and 80% effaced, but it was progress on my own so they just let me keep going. At 9am my contractions were about 1-2 mins apart and really strong, but I was still only at a 4 and still 80%. My doctor was concerned since my water had now been broken for 12 hrs so he wanted to start pitocin. Since the contractions were getting worse I asked for a shot of pain meds with the pitocin since I knew that was going to make them worse. Around 11am my contractions were coming in waves of 3-4 at a time. Also his HR was dropping with each contraction so they were getting a little concerned. They put in a fetal heart monitor and cervix monitor so they could monitor him and my contractions more closely. They decided it was his cord so they added fluid back into me to float his cord. They also had me change positions with every contraction. They even tried me getting on my hands and knees but that made his HR go lower. By this point my contractions were non stop so I asked for another shot of pain meds. My doctor was also talking about the possibility of a c-section if we couldn’t get his heart rate under control as I was still only 4cm dilated. So the nurse brought in the pain shot but asked me if I wanted that or an epidural. With the pain meds I ran the risk of it making baby sleepy and his HR going lower which of course makes me have a c-section. So I gave in and decided on the epidural, as if I needed a c-section I had to get it any ways. And I knew I couldn’t go farther with out the pain meds but didn’t want to cause him any distress.

So the nurse called for an epidural and started getting things around for it. Then I had all sorts of people in my room because his HR kept dropping lower because my contractions were non stop. I was in tears because they were so fast and so hard and I was mad because they weren’t doing anything to make me dilate. Finally they allowed anesthesia in to start my epidural, this was around 1pm. It took him 3 tries to get it and I pretty much had contractions the whole time. Also on the 3^rd try it wasn’t quite numb yet so I could feel it grinding in my spine so that was making it worse.

About 30 mins after they started the epidural they checked me again and I was now a 5. Also his HR had steadied now that I had relaxed. Now that things had calmed down I tried to rest some. I still had a lot of pressure but at least the back pain was gone.

Once I got the epidural I progressed pretty fast. At 2:30 I was 6-7, 3:30 I was an 8 and at 3:50 I was a 10 so she wanted me to try a couple pushes. I was so tired I just kept saying I couldn’t do it, but he was right there and ready to come so she called the doctor in. After he got there I pushed for 5-6 contractions and he was out.

After 20hrs of labor and only 30 mins of pushing John Michael was born at 4:36pm.

Welcoming John

Announcing the birth of John Michael

Born on April 25th 2011 at 4:36pm

7lbs 1.8oz & 21in long  He is the most precious little boy and we are in love.

Think you know when John is coming?

I’ve set up a baby pool online and wanted to invite you all to join in the fun. I had set up another previously but it was before we found out what we were having. Well it does award a winner and you lose 400 points for a wrong gender, so I wanted to start a new one. And I think I’m going to offer up a prize to the winner!

No idea what I will give away yet, but most likely a gift card to Amazon or Target or something along those lines. It will be the easiest to send out after he is here since I can order it right online and mail it from there.

So head over to ExpectNet and enter your guess now. Just please be sure to enter a name/blog identity that will be recognizable in the “who I am” section so that if you win and I announce it here you know that it is you.

Good luck!

Guess he didn’t get the memo

I had a doctors appt this morning and let a tad bit disappointed.

Baby boy looks really good on the US and was moving around quite a bit. She tried to get a 3D picture of his face for me but he didn’t want to move his hand away from it. When he finally did she tried to get it but it’s still not very clear. She estimated his weight about 8.3lbs! Seems big to me as most people you hear around 6lb or 7lbs. And the longer he cooks the bigger he gets...not looking forward to birthing a 9lb or 10lb baby, lol.

Here is a map to figure it out, lol

After my US I had the NST and he decided he didn’t want to cooperate for that. First the nurse couldn’t find him, she tried for 20 mins before getting another nurse. She tried for about 10mins and finally found him. But his heart rate stayed nice and low and he didn’t move much. Little stinker decided to take a nap. After 30 mins or so she called the doc in and he said it would be ok to give me some juice (juice is a no no for GD). I had 1 drink and he started moving, which means he just woke from a sleep cycle as we know the juice didn’t hit him that fast. I guess he was just showing us who’s boss and he will move when he wants to. After 5 mins I had enough accelerations/decelerations to be done so I didn’t have to sit there the full 20 mins.

Then I headed to an exam room to see the doctor. I told him that yesterday my blood pressure was elevated and I felt fuzzy and had a headache. But today my blood pressure was normal so he wasn’t sure why it was elevated yesterday. So he wasn’t to concerned with it but said if I have those symptoms again to call the office. He then checked me to see if I was dilated any and I was nice and closed.

That’s right...not dilated at all! Talk about being disappointed. I was really hoping to have made some progress towards labor. Especially since I was up almost 2hrs last night with steady contractions. But it doesn’t look like they were doing anything. So it doesn’t look like he will be making his appearance this weekend like I was hoping for.

So we scheduled another US, NST and appointment for next Friday. Hopefully he will come before then, but if not I’m sure we will start talking about induction at that point since I will be over my due date.

Also I am now done with work and I hate to be wasting my time off with out him here. But I see lots of cleaning in my future. Maybe I’ll get on the treadmill and go for a jog. Yeah if you know me you know that’s not happening, lol. But something to get this going...I’m ready and very impatient if you hadn’t noticed. I guess I need to resend that memo that contained his eviction notice.

Pregnancy ~ week 39

The countdown is on...7 days till my due date.

Several people have told me today that my pregnancy has gone by really fast, guess that’s because none of them are carrying the baby. I guess I will admit that it is hard to believe that 39 weeks is here already, but I wouldn’t say it went fast.

I’ve been having contractions, but nothing significant. Usually 1-2 an hour or every couple hours, definitely nothing major.

Tomorrow is my last day of work. They have people from other departments in the hospital coming over to fill in on my days. They have also hired 2 new casuals but they won’t be starting till the first week of May. Then they will need to be trained. So the first couple weeks will be rough as they are paying the other people overtime to be there cause they still have to work in their own departments. But once they get the newbie's trained things will run much smoother. But it’s not my problem and tomorrow is my last day! So I don’t really care, lol.

On Friday I am having an ultrasound, non-stress test and doctors appointment. He said he will check me then so hopefully I will show some signs of impending labor. I asked him last week how far over my due date he would let me go and he said that he would like me to deliver at 40 weeks, 41 at the latest due to the gestational diabetes. Even though mine has been well controlled it doesn’t mean I can’t have any of the complications that come with it. The main being a giant baby, and each day over my due date I go makes baby grow. So he would like me to deliver as close to my due date as possible. But if I don’t have a favorable cervix then inducing would be a bad idea and could cause me to end up with a c-section. So he would let me go to 41 weeks before inducing if my body isn’t ready. But that is the latest he feels comfortable going. So I know for sure he will be here in 2 weeks time...I’d be happier with today, but I’ll take what I can get.

Here is my weekly update from similac.com:

Baby's Growth and Development When You're 39 Weeks Pregnant

When you're 39 weeks pregnant, your baby is making preparations for her arrival. Changes include:

• The waxy vernix covering her skin and the fine hair called lanugo start to go away when you're 39 weeks pregnant. Some vernix and lanugo might remain at birth.
• Your baby gets antibodies from the placenta to protect her against illness.
• She also will get more antibodies when you breastfeed her at birth.
• Your baby probably weighs between 7 and 7 1/2 pounds. But it's normal for her to weigh anywhere from 6 to 9 pounds.

Your Changing Body When You're 39 Weeks Pregnant

When you're 39 weeks pregnant, your body makes final preparations for your baby's first meal.

• Your breasts reach their full size. They might enlarge again after delivery until your milk comes in.
• Your breasts might begin to leak a thick, yellowish milk. This is colostrum. It is packed with nutrients and antibodies to help give your baby a great start.
• You might want to speak with a lactation consultant or attend a breastfeeding class before your baby arrives to prepare for her first meal.
• You might gain little or no weight or even lose a pound or two toward the end of your pregnancy.
• You might begin contractions that stop and start. Contractions that continue signal labor. Learn more about contractions.

Wellness and Nutrition When You're 39 Weeks Pregnant

In the final weeks of pregnancy, you can anticipate contractions. They might stop and start or continue at this point in your pregnancy. Either way, they signal your baby's upcoming arrival!

Experiencing Contractions? 
When you're 39 weeks pregnant, these could be the real thing! Learn more about contractions so you can distinguish the real ones from the false ones.

• Contractions occur when the uterus tightens and relaxes.
• Some contractions are called Braxton-Hicks. These contractions are called false labor. They help your body practice for the real thing.
• In most women, uterine contractions get closer together, become more intense, and last longer as you approach childbirth.
• Sometimes contractions stop altogether.
• You can time the contractions when they start. Call your doctor when they occur closer together, intensify, or last longer.
• During a contraction, you feel pressure and pain in your lower back and abdomen.
• Your abdomen will tighten.
• Between contractions, your abdomen and uterus relax.
• Contractions help your baby travel through the vagina.
• Use a stopwatch or clock to time your contractions.

Exercises to Prepare for the Workout of Labor
A squatting position during labor efficiently can open your pelvic area, allowing your baby to descend and progress more quickly. But squatting can be especially tiring for muscles in your thighs. Here are a few simple exercises that can help you get ready:

Squats:

• Stand with feet shoulder-width apart.
• Slowly lower into a squat position, keeping your back straight and heels flat on the floor. (If heels tend to rise, widen your leg position.)
• Hold for 10 to 30 seconds with hands resting on your knees.
• Slowly stand by pushing up from your knees with your arms.
• Repeat five times.

Wall Sit:

• Stand with your back against the wall and feet shoulder-width apart.
• Carefully slide your back down the wall with your knees bent until you're in the sitting position (as if there were an invisible chair beneath you).
• Rest hands on your thighs for balance.
• Keep your knees/toes pointing forward.
• Hold for a few seconds and slide back up.
• Work up to 10 repetitions.

Plan Ahead for Mealtime
Before your baby arrives, try to plan ahead for nutritious meals after she arrives home.

• If you can, cook and freeze a few simple meals that you quickly can reheat in the oven or microwave.
• Stock up on nutritious foods and snacks to make mealtime easier with a newborn in the house.

This about sums it up...

Pregnancy ~ week 37

I have reached full term! That means that if I go into labor they won’t attempt to stop it so J can be born safely and fully developed at any time! With my luck he won’t make an appearance until May, but one can hope right?

This weekend we took a trip to Babies R Us and grabbed the last couple things we needed. Which included his diaper bag, which is now packed and ready to go. I also packed my bag so we are officially ready.

His room is done, other than the dresser. I ordered it last Monday site to store thinking I would get it faster and cheaper, but apparently that way takes much longer. It should arrive sometime between Monday the 4th and the 14th. Once it is here I can load it up and say we are ready. Well as ready as anyone can be when having a baby.

Honestly I can’t believe we are thisclose to the finish line. I don’t feel 9 months pregnant. Everyone complains about how big and miserable they are and I’m really not. I pray that continues the next few weeks and I have a nice, smooth, easy, painless delivery...that’s not to much to ask for, is it?

Here is my weekly update from similac.com:

Baby's Growth and Development When You're 37 Weeks Pregnant

When you're 37 weeks pregnant, you have a reason to celebrate. Your baby is considered full-term. These are a few changes she experiences:

• Your baby's weight gain slows considerably, but she's got just a little more room to grow.
• Essential fat (aka baby fat) will continue to form. This will round her out and help her stay warm after birth.
• If you have an ultrasound during the 3rd trimester, the technician might measure the head, stomach, and femur to estimate your baby's weight.
• She weighs more than 6 pounds.

Your Changing Body When You're 37 Weeks Pregnant

When you're 37 weeks pregnant and in the weeks that follow, you can breathe easier. You might begin to notice some big changes in your body:

• Your baby might move down into your pelvis. When this happens, you might notice some of your late-pregnancy symptoms go away.
• Your shortness of breath might go away as your lungs have more room to move.
• Less pressure on your digestive organs might alleviate heartburn and constipation. Digestion might be easier, too.
• You probably feel more pressure on your bladder.

Wellness and Nutrition When You're 37 Weeks Pregnant

During your 37th week of pregnancy, you, your partner, your baby, and your doctor are making final preparations for your baby's arrival. Your doctor sees you once a week until labor and delivery. When you're 37 weeks pregnant, this is a good time to finalize the details of your birth plan and take time to relax.

• Weekly prenatal checkups! You'll be seeing your doctor once a week beginning with the 37th week of pregnancy. Your exam probably includes:
  • Weight measurement
  • A blood pressure test
  • An analysis of baby's activity and movement
  • A pelvic exam to check baby's position, height of fundus, and cervix dilation and effacement
  • A check for preeclampsia, which is high blood pressure during pregnancy
  • Vision changes such as blurred eyesight or seeing spots could be preeclampsia, symptoms which you should mention to your doctor
  • Looking for signs of labor
• Take time at this visit to speak with your doctor about your questions or concerns, such as:
  • What are the signs of labor?
  • When should you go to the hospital?
• Between weekly appointments, let your doctor know if you experience vaginal bleeding or leakage that is greenish-brown; constant, severe abdominal pain; or decreased baby movement.
• Relax and let go. Either by yourself or with your partner, practice relaxation techniques to release tension and reduce stress. Some techniques to try include:
  • Body, facial, or foot massage for pregnant women. Avoid being on your back, though.
  • Relaxed breathing
  • Guided imagery with the help of a partner or by listening to a CD
  • Meditation or prayer
  • Music
  • Progressive muscle relaxation where you tighten and release muscles throughout your body beginning with your toes
  • Yoga for pregnant women
• Relaxation can provide you with many benefits, including:
  • Reducing anxiety about childbirth
  • Helping you rest
  • Helping you sleep

Exercise Tip: Avoid exercises or stretches that require you to be flat on your back for more than a few moments.

Infant Car Seat Safety Essentials

• By law, and according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), all infants should ride rear-facing starting with their first ride home from the hospital. Learn more at the AAP website.
• AAP guidelines state that all infants younger than 1 year and who weigh less than 20 pounds always should ride rear-facing.
• Because laws and child safety seat standards change, it is recommended that you get a new car seat approved for use for newborns.
• Proper car seat installation is paramount. Read and follow the manufacturer's instructions that came with your car seat.
• If you need help, find a certified Child Passenger Safety (CPS) Technician. Lists of certified CPS Technicians and Child Seat Fitting Stations are available on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website at www.nhtsa.gov, or at www.seatcheck.org. Your local emergency department, children's hospital, or even baby store also might be able to connect you with a certified CPS Technician.

Baby’s size from TheBump.com:

Your Baby: Month 9

At week 37, your pregnancy is considered full term, meaning baby is likely to thrive after birth. Baby spends these last weeks in preparation for the outside world… meaning careful refinement of the blink, suck, inhale and exhale. Meconium, which you’ll probably find in the first diaper, is accumulating in the intestines. If (okay, as) you worry about giving birth, consider what it’s like for the little one. During the journey out of your womb, baby will produce more stress hormones than any other time in life.

Pregnancy ~ week 36

28 days till my due date, wow we really are down to the end now aren’t we?

Still meeting with my doctor weekly and having a non-stress test each week as well. This week he didn’t really want to cooperate and the nurse had to push him around to get some accelerations, which she finally did and after a 2hr appointment I was finally able to leave.

Next week I have to meet with the other doctor in the practice just in case she is on call when I deliver. I’ve met her as an employee of the hospital, but never seen here as a patient. Which I know can be a different atmosphere so I agreed that I should see her at least once. My doctor said she is a bit more stickler though so he wants me to start taking my blood sugars 4x a day again until I see her. He just wants her to be comfortable with how my blood sugars are controlled. And I guess she doesn’t let her patients cut down as much as I have. But it’s only a week so it’s not that big of a deal I suppose, my fingers might disagree though.

Here is my weekly update from similac.com:

Baby's Growth and Development When You're 36 Weeks Pregnant

At the end of 36 weeks of pregnancy, your baby will be considered full-term! Although he has more growing to do after that time, it's exciting to know his arrival is approaching quickly.

• Your baby has grown almost completely into his skin that was once so oversized.
• He now has a fully rounded face, in part because his powerful sucking muscles are now developed and ready to get to work.
• Although your baby's bones are hardening, his skull remains soft and flexible for his birth.
• At 36 weeks of pregnancy, your baby probably weighs about 6 pounds or slightly more.

Your Changing Body When You're 36 Weeks Pregnant

Your body continues to make both physical and mental preparations for the big day that's fast approaching. Here's what you can expect at your 36th week of pregnancy:

Feel the Need to Nest?

• If you feel an unusual surge of energy and a compelling need to clean, decorate, or organize, you might be experiencing what's called nesting.
  • Nesting can be useful in moderation if it helps to occupy your mind during the wait for your baby to arrive.
  • Accomplishing tasks now can give you more time after your baby is home. It's a good time to launder 0-3 month clothes and place them in drawers, prepare your baby’s crib, and set up the diaper pail.
  • Just try not to overdo it and wear yourself out.
• You might continue to notice several of the typical late-pregnancy symptoms.
• Your cervix might start to dilate in the weeks, days, or hours before the birth of your baby. Every woman and even every pregnancy is different.
• Joints and tissues in your body continue to soften and loosen as your body prepares for your baby's birth. This might be especially significant in your pelvic area.
• You might continue to feel hip pain on one side or lower-back pain.
• Braxton-Hicks contractions might become more frequent as you edge closer to your due date. Remember, these practical contractions play an important role in helping your body rehearse for childbirth.
• You might notice more practice contractions after physical activity or if you are not getting enough fluids.

Braxton-Hicks (False Labor) contractions	True Labor Contractions
Irregular and remain irregular Don't get closer together as time passes Often are weak and stay that way (might have stronger contractions followed by weaker ones) Stop when you rest, walk, or change positions Vary in length and intensity Don't affect your cervix Pain usually felt only in the front	Regular intervals or regular pattern Contractions grow closer together over time Increase in strength/intensity over time Keep coming no matter what you do Usually last 30 to 90 seconds (shorter when they begin and get progressively longer and stronger) Cause cervix to dilate (open) Pain begins in back and moves to front

Wellness and Nutrition When You're 36 Weeks Pregnant

When you're 36 weeks pregnant, it's natural for your body to begin to slow a little as you get closer to your due date. You're now carrying a full-grown baby inside, and are continuing to adjust to loosening ligaments, swelling, and other challenges.

• Continuing consistent, gentle exercise can give you long-term energy. Walking is a great example of exercise you usually can continue through labor.
• Your balanced nutrition now is not only nourishing you and your baby, but also is establishing a strong foundation for possible breastfeeding and your body's timely recovery after delivery.

It's Time to Pack Your Bags!
You might want to have your bag packed and ready, even though you have several weeks before your due date. Don't forget a bag for your partner, too.

Packing Tips:

• Try the interactive packing list to make sure you have everything you need. And pack your free Similac^® Travel Bag with your toiletries and makeup. Don't have one? Ask your doctor!
• Leave your packed bags in a handy place.
• For items you can't pack ahead of time, try taping a list to your suitcase as a reminder.
• You and your partner might want to separate items into two bags: one for supplies to use during labor and a larger bag for your entire hospital stay.

Let’s compare:

Do you think he’s dropped?

Pregnancy ~ week 35

Another week has come and gone. I can not believe I am 35 weeks pregnant! Like I said last week I am really starting to feel pregnant, I guess that does make it all more real.

I had the worst night last night. First it started with cramps on the drive home from work. It wasn’t the normal BH I get but more like period cramps in my back. Which at first concerned me, cause I know back pain can be a sign of labor and this was cramping, which I haven’t had. But they slowly went away once I was home and settled on the couch.

But then I went to bed. I woke up several times with a sharp pain in my stomach. I just couldn’t get comfortable and was tossing and turning from side to side. My hips were hurting from laying on them so I really wanted to lay on my back, which I know you aren’t supposed to but I tried anyways. That lasted all of 5 minutes, lol.

This pain continued until 3am or so and then I finally fell asleep until Mr.B’s alarm went off at 530am. I got up and used the bathroom and then fell back asleep until 930am when the dogs started going crazy to be let out.

The funny thing is I don’t really remember what the pain felt like. I knew I was miserable and I knew the pain was sharp. But outside of that I couldn’t tell you. It didn’t feel like cramps or BH. My stomach just hurt.

But I feel much better today and I hope it continues that way, I really don’t want a repeat, lol.

Here is a belly shot at 35 weeks, sorry it’s not a very good one. I took it in our room with my phone, but you get the gist of it.At my appointment last week I had lost a few more lbs. I’ve been gaining and losing each week but I am at a total of 15lbs lost right now. I love that I’ve lost weight as I was worried I’d be someone who gained a ton of weight and ended up 300lbs. Being plus size to begin with made that a real possibility. But baby is growing right on target so it’s ok that I’ve lost some weight. I do wish I could lose about 50lbs more though, lol. If I could guarantee I’d lose weight with the next pregnancy I’d try again as soon as I could, it seems to be a pretty good weight loss program for me. But fertility drugs are expensive and I think I’ll cherish this  miracle for a while first.

Here is my weekly update from similac.com:

Baby's Growth and Development When You're 35 Weeks Pregnant

During this 35th week of pregnancy, your baby's growth has been progressing at a remarkable pace as your due date draws near. But the next three weeks could bring your baby's most rapid weight gains.

• Your baby probably continues to gain at least a half a pound a week.
• During the 35th week of pregnancy, she already might be close to her birth length, near 18 inches from head to toe, and she continues to build up necessary fat, especially in her shoulders.
• Within your now-crowded uterus, your baby might shift her movements from kicks and punches to more rolls and wiggles.
• Her brain development continues to advance quickly.
• Your baby already might have settled into a head-down position in your pelvis, if this is your first pregnancy. This is the ideal position for delivery because your baby's head is the biggest part of her body.
• Position refers to your baby's placement in your uterus — whether he is facing right or left or is headfirst or feetfirst. Your baby floats in your uterus and changes positions often throughout early and mid-pregnancy. When you're between 32 and 36 weeks pregnant, your baby usually rotates to a head-down position for labor and delivery.
  • Headfirst position is called the vertex position.
  • Feetfirst position is called a breech position.
  • If your baby is breech but is not too far down into your pelvis, your doctor might try to turn your baby into the proper position a few weeks before your due date.
  • Lying-sideways position is called a transverse position.

Your Changing Body When You're 35 Weeks Pregnant

When you're 35 weeks pregnant, your body continues to make internal adjustments and preparations for your baby's birth.

• Your cervix already might begin to dilate or open very slightly to get ready for birth in a few weeks.
  • When this begins, you might notice a sharp pain in your vagina. This doesn't mean you're in labor.
  • Some women begin dilating in the few weeks, days, or even hours before labor.
• You might continue to feel practice contractions this week. Remember, these contractions will not settle into a regular rhythm.

Wellness and Nutrition When You're 35 Weeks Pregnant

During this busy time of preparation, it's more important than ever to maintain your energy and strong health withbalanced nutrition and regular exercise.

• You are probably visiting your doctor every two weeks now. Most of these visits will be the same as previous checkups with a few additions:
  • Your doctor probably will screen you using a routine test for group B streptococcus (GBS).
  • This bacterium (not related to strep throat) usually lives harmlessly in the vaginas of 10% to 35% of healthy women.
  • Although GBS poses no risk to you, your baby can pick it up during delivery.
  • If you test positive for GBS, you probably will be given antibiotics during labor to protect your baby.
• Your doctor also might check your baby's position to see if she's moved into place for delivery.
  • Your doctor probably will feel your baby's position from the outside of your abdomen. As you get closer to your due date, your doctor might perform a vaginal exam to check your cervix.
  • Your doctor will confirm which part of your baby's body is farthest down in your pelvis. In most cases, it's your baby's head.

Putting a Plan in Place
Working out the details now can lead to a smoother labor and delivery later!

• Be sure both you and your partner know the way to the hospital and how long it takes to get there, from home or work. Do a practice run, if necessary!
• Have a backup route ready in case of poor weather or traffic problems.
• Have a plan for each time of day (or night). Who will take you to the hospital? How do you reach your partner?
• Make preparations if you have other children or pets.

Preplanning Quick List

• Are the phone numbers for your doctor, partner, and sitter in one place?
• Are your maternity benefits and leave paperwork complete?
• Are you preregistered at the hospital?
• Do you know when to call the doctor if labor has begun?
• Who will drive you if it's during the day or at night?
• Where do you park?
• Is videotaping allowed?
• What are the hospital's visitor policies?

Practice makes perfect! If you've already finished your childbirth classes, don't forget to practice breathing, relaxation, or stretching techniques. This way you'll be ready to use them when the time comes!

Pregnancy ~ week 34

I’m really starting to feel pregnant.

Sleep isn’t coming as well as it used to and I’m having terrible pelvic/hip type pain. When I roll over in my sleep my pelvis cracks and pops and I just constantly feel sore.

Often times when I stand up I feel like he is going to fall out. I walk waddle a few steps and he does move so I can walk normal. But I know that some day soon he won’t move and I’ll be forever a waddler.

I just keep reminding myself that I only have 6 weeks left.

Here is my weekly update from similac.com:

Baby's Growth and Development When You're 34 Weeks Pregnant

Between the 34th week of pregnancy and the 37th week of pregnancy, your baby continues to refine his systems and put on significant weight.

• He probably weighs about 5 1/2 pounds and is about 12 1/2 inches, about as long as a loaf of bread, from head to rump (plus an additional 5 inches or more in legs!).
• The white, waxy coating protecting your baby's skin (vernix) thickens this week.
• The soft downy hair (lanugo) that insulated your baby's skin so effectively for months is nowalmost gone.
• Your baby's fingernails have reached the tip of his fingers.
• Your baby might gain about a half a pound this week as his weight continues to build quickly.

Your Changing Body When You're 34 Weeks Pregnant

You soon might notice a difference in your pregnancy symptoms now or in the coming weeks, especially if your baby moves lower into your pelvis. Here's what else is going on in your 34th week of pregnancy:

Look Who Dropped In!

• Your baby could drop or settle into your pelvis in preparation for birth as early as this week. This is called lightening.
• When your baby does drop into the pelvic area, he is considered engaged or in position for birth.
• Lightening can happen several weeks before your baby's birth, especially if this is your first pregnancy. Or, it could happen the day your labor begins.
• You might notice that your belly seems lower and more tilted forward when this happens.
• Lightening might bring relief from upper-body pregnancy symptoms, such as shortness of breath and heartburn; however, in exchange, you'll possibly feel increased pressure on your pelvis, hips, and bladder.
• This can cause discomforts, such as leaking or frequent urination, to increase.
• If you've experienced numbness or pain from pressure on your sciatic nerve, this also should stop if your baby drops now or in the next few weeks.
• You might continue to notice late-pregnancy swelling in your legs or ankles throughout this week. Your doctor will continue to watch this during checkups.
• Braxton-Hicks contractions might continue to prepare your body for childbirth.

Wellness and Nutrition When You're 34 Weeks Pregnant

Exercising Now for Labor Later!
During your 34th week of pregnancy, certain muscles in your body will get a significant workout during the birth of your baby. You can help these muscles prepare now.

• Kegel exercises strengthen your pelvic floor. They also can help with any immediate leaking urine and hemorrhoid problems.
• Pelvic tilt increases stomach muscles and flexibility for birth. It also can alleviate current back pain.
• Tailor sitting (sitting cross-legged) stretches and strengthens muscles in your back and thighs and makes the joints in your pelvis more flexible for an easier delivery. It also improves blood flow to your lower body. Try it:
  • Sit on the floor with your back straight (or with your back against the wall, if you need extra support).
  • With knees bent to the side, bring the soles of your feet together and pull your heels in toward your groin area.
  • Let your knees slowly drop to each side until you feel a stretch in your inner thighs. Be sure you don't bounce.

Finding a pediatrician: If you already haven't chosen a pediatrician, you might want to start interviewing possible choices. It's important to try to select one before your baby's born so your pediatrician can be the first to examine the baby at the hospital.

Considerations:

• Does the doctor accept your insurance plan?
• How large is the practice?
• Will your baby be seen by the same doctor?
• What are the office hours?
• What are the after-hours procedures?
• With what hospital does the doctor work?

Learn About Labor and Prepare Your Plan
When you're 34 weeks pregnant, you might want to talk with your doctor about his or her usual practices during labor. You also can share your ideas and preferences. 

During your 34th week of pregnancy, you might want to develop a birth plan as a guide for how you want to deliver your baby.

• This can serve as an excellent tool to discuss your preferences with your doctor.
• Plans often cover your preferences regarding labor, delivery, and postpartum care and can be as short or long as you'd like.
• This birth plan should function as a "flexible wish list" because things might need to change, depending on your doctor's policies, the hospital's policies, and how your labor progresses.
• Here are a few questions you might want to consider* as you develop your plan:
  • At what point in labor do you want to come to the hospital?
  • What comfort items from home do you want to bring?
  • Whom do you want in the delivery room?
  • What non-medication relief do you want?
  • What medicated pain relief, such as epidural, if any, do you want, or would you like to consider options as labor progresses?
  • What positions would you like to try during labor?
  • Whom would you like to cut the cord?
  • What would you like to happen right after birth? Do you want the baby handed to you immediately?
  • Do you plan to breastfeed or bottle-feed?
  • Do you want the baby to room-in with you?
  • What's your preference about circumcision if you have a boy?

Making some of these decisions ahead of time during your 34th week of pregnancy might make you feel more at ease once the big day approaches.

* Source: Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy

Fill up on fluids during your 34th week of pregnancy. Do you know that you lose water when you sweat, go to the bathroom, and even breathe? Drinking water is more important than ever as dehydration can lead to Braxton-Hicks contractions. In addition to preventing contractions, water:

• Helps build important tissues
• Assists nutrients as they circulate in and out of your body
• Aids in digestion
• Helps you maintain the right amount of amniotic fluids

Tip: You can use other fluids, such as 100% fruit juices and milk, but try to keep water as your basis.

Pregnancy ~ week 33

I begin week 33 just as I have any other week, feeling great! This pregnancy has been really good to me and I couldn’t be more thankful. I have to say I was concerned since we did have such a hard time conceiving.

I will say though that as I sit here and feel J kicking and squirming around I still feel like it’s all unreal. I can’t believe that we will actually have a baby in just a few short weeks. And I did have a bit of a freak out moment yesterday.

April is coming up in just a few short weeks, which means that my sons birth is coming up in just a few short weeks. Which means I have to push a giant baby out of an unthinkable place. And that just sounds really painful to me, and I think I’d rather skip that part if possible. I actually had a “what have I done” and “is it to late to change my mind” thought. I also began thinking a c-section would be much easier and I could avoid that “ring of fire” I keep hearing about. I mean I have had 2 laparoscopies and the recovery time from those were wonderful, a c-section can’t be much worse, right. Other than the cut in my tummy is much bigger, but same thing right?

I guess I’m so worried about the pain because I really do not want an epidural, which would also mean I really don’t want a c-section. Not that I want to go natural, because I will be asking for all the pain meds I can get. I just don’t want the epidural. The thought of a needle going into my back does not sound pleasant. Plus all of the side effects one can have. I am a person who has migraines and epidurals can make those worse, which does not sound like something I really want to risk.

But can I handle the pain?

Here is my weekly update from similac.com:

Baby's Growth and Development When You're 33 Weeks Pregnant

The 33rd week of pregnancy and the four weeks that follow mark a time of astounding growth as your baby reaches her ultimate birth weight.

• She weighs about 4 1/2 pounds and might grow a full inch in length this week alone! She's grown to about 12 1/2 inches from crown to rump, or about the length of an average pumpkin.
• Your baby continues to gain weight rapidly — about a half pound a week.
• The pupils of her eyes can now adjust to bright or dim light, just like yours.
• Her lungs continue to develop.
• Your amniotic fluid has reached its maximum level now — there's simply no more room! With less fluid to cushion them, your baby's kicks might feel a bit uncomfortable.

Your Changing Body When You're 33 Weeks Pregnant

When you're 33 weeks pregnant and in the weeks to come, your body prepares for the upcoming demands of labor and delivery.

• The milk-producing glands in your breasts grow larger, increasing your breasts' overall size. Tiny, oil-producing glands that moisturize the area around your nipples might be more noticeable.
• Your muscles are probably sore all over from carrying your almost full-grown baby!
• Your growing baby might be making it more difficult for you to sleep. See tips for getting some shut-eye.
• You're likely to feel practice contractions or false labor pains (Braxton-Hicks) soon.
• You probably will continue to gain about a pound a week during the 33rd week of pregnancy and the next several weeks.
• You're probably thinking about labor and delivery right now. It's natural for you to feel excited as well as anxious. During your 33rd week of pregnancy, try these tips to prepare:
  • Educate yourself. Childbirth classes offer valuable insights about what to expect.
  • Talk to women with positive birth experiences about labor techniques that worked for them.
  • Discuss questions or worries with your doctor.
  • Make a plan, but remain flexible about your birthing preferences and pain-relief options.
• If you notice any of the signs of preterm labor during the 33rd week of pregnancy and the weeks to come, contact your doctor.

Wellness and Nutrition When You're 33 Weeks Pregnant

During the 33rd or 34th week of pregnancy, you probably have a prenatal doctor visit every two weeks.

• In this visit or the next, your doctor might begin to examine your baby's position for birth.
• You might have one more appointment before you begin weekly visits.

Time for a Tour!

• It's a good time to preregister at your hospital or birthing center.
• Filling out paperwork will be much easier now than when you're in labor!Take a look now to take away some of the unknown.
  • If you already haven't toured the birthing facilities as part of your childbirth classes, ask to see a birthing or labor and delivery room.
  • Clarify where you need to check in and where your partner needs to park, leaving two less worries when the big day arrives!
  • Find out what you can bring to help pass the time, whether it's a few DVDs or your laptop.

Eating Well Is Not Just About What You Eat Now — It's How Much and When

• When you're 33 weeks pregnant, your choice of food, the time of day you eat it, and how much you eat at one sitting directly can impact your well-being.
• If certain foods or eating past a certain time prompt bloating, heartburn, or other uncomfortable symptoms, temporarily try to do without.
• After your baby's birth, you can reintroduce old favorites back into your diet.
• Be sure that even your small meals include a balance of nutrients to fuel both you and your baby.

Get a Leg Up on Leg Cramps
Sharp, painful cramps in your calves might be bothersome at night. To lessen leg cramps during your 33rd week of pregnancy, try these tips:

• Stretch before bed.
• Straighten your leg and flex your foot toward your body, keeping your heel down and toes up.
• Bend your entire foot instead of pointing your toe.
• Massage your calf in long, downward strokes if spasms wake you.

What's Keeping You Awake?
When you're 33 weeks pregnant, finding a comfortable sleeping position to get the restful sleep you need isn't always easy. With all of your body's physical and emotional changes, it's no wonder.

• Hormonal changes, heartburn, pressure on your bladder, and a baby who's growing larger by the minute all can add to the challenge of getting a full night's sleep.
• You might find it hard to relax or clear your mind with soaring emotions, excitement, and even worries.

Simple Solutions for Sleep

• Try winding down for the night a little earlier with a short, warm bath or relaxation exercises from your childbirth classes.
• Keep a comfortable temperature in your dark and quiet room.
• Limit late-evening liquids.
• Exercise regularly but not within several hours of going to bed.
• Vote's in! When you're 33 weeks pregnant, women agree on a comfortable sleeping position: Try lying on your right or left side with your legs and knees bent. This takes the pressure off your primary veins in your legs and your lower back.
• Pile up the pillows! Use one pillow to support your belly and another between your calves to support your upper leg. Try placing another small pillow or rolled blanket in the small of your back to relieve pressure from the hip you're lying on.
• If you're not sleeping, consider getting up and listening to music, reading, or writing until you're ready to try again.
• If you really need to catch up on rest, take a short nap during the day, but try to keep the nap from interfering with your regular nighttime rest.

Baby size from TheBump.com:

Baby's now the size of a honeydew!
Things are heating up inside as well: Baby may grow up to a full inch this week alone, and his brain is developing like crazy. Pretty soon, he'll be able to coordinate breathing with sucking and swallowing. Also, his bones are hardening, and he's started to keep his eyes open when he's awake.