11 days in the NICU

Wednesday 7.18.12

 

 

So we made it through the night.  Pain wasn't too horrible (Thank goodness for the pain pump!) I was checked on every few hours and my blood pressure was monitored.  I managed to sleep pretty well from 3:30 am till about 7am  And then I found it fairly hard to sleep.

We had 2 sets of visitors this morning, which was a huge surprise for me.  My coworker Lori stopped by for a quick visit.  She wanted to find out what happened, so she could report back to everyone at work.  We also got a visit from Pat's cousin Emi, her husband and their girls.  They even brought us these adorable clothes for you. Thank goodness for the preemie and newborn clothes, otherwise you would have been naked.

  

 

I am still on a clear diet (which sucks!)  Breakfast consisted of Sprite, cranberry juice, jello and chicken broth..ick! I wasn't too hungry yet, but by lunch I was starving!  ( I did sneak a few swigs of coke for my caffeine fix, since I was getting a massive headache..Shhh..don't tell the nurses!)  I also had a few bites of the McDonalds McDouble that dad brought back for lunch! :)

 

Dad and grandma keep visiting you at the NICU and bringing your milk.  They would also bring back all of these great photos since I haven't gotten to meet you yet. I love this picture..you look so sweet and soft. I can't wait to hold you.

 

 

So small and tiny

 

Keeping warm in the isolette

 

By 7pm there was another shift change which gave me Darby.  I really enjoyed her, and she seemed just as eager to get me up to see my baby and turned off from the Mag as I was! She told me that hopefully by midnight we would be transferring to the postpartum side with a pit stop at the NICU. (she kept her promise!)  Around 10pm, my IV was turned off, the Fentanyl was stopped (after one last "hit" for the pain) , Mag was done being administered and the catheter removed. I am so excited. By 10:45 we start packing up the room onto the transfer cart, and just hung out and waited for Darby to transfer us. Just before midnight, she got me cleaned up, and I got to wash my face and brush my teeth finally, and put on a new gown.   

 

Thursday 7.19.12

 

12:15am We are finally heading out to the NICU! It feels so good to finally get out of bed, and have the compression socks taken off.  I am so excited to see my baby and also a little nervous since she is so small.

 

 

12:20 am I finally get to hold Mallory.  I was so shocked at first at how small and almost fragile she is.  I then start to cry. I am so happy!!  I then unwrap her and check her out..I can't believe how many wires she is hooked up to.  3 chest stickies, an IV, a O2 sensor, baby "low jack" bracelet, and 2 hospital bracelets.(1 on her arm and 1 on her leg) I play with her little fingers and toes, and then head over to my new room for the night. I am very satisfied with my trip.

 

 

The first thing I did after getting situated in my room was order breakfast.(and my next 3 meals!) I was SO excited for this I could barely stand it!  7:30am my tray arrived with my Rice Krispies, french toast, cinnamon roll, oj, and chocolate and white milk.

 

We go down to the NICU every 3 hrs for feedings starting at 11:30am.  I am still pretty sore from surgery, and we take the wheelchair to our feedings.  (It is just to far to walk)  Our feeding schedule is 8:30, 11:30, 2:30, 5:30, 8:30, 11:30) We often skip the middle of the night feedings, just so I can get some rest..and we have quite the supply of milk already in the freezer they can feed her with

 

Another HUGE highlight of my day..I finally got to shower!! And it felt AMAZING!! I was a little nervous how it was going to feel on my incision, but it wasn't too bad. There was even a bench in there if I wanted to sit down. I felt like a new woman after getting clean. 

 

After our morning feeding they had placed a feeding tube :(  I was quite shocked to come back for the next feeding to find that, but know it is for the best.  You seem to tolerate it well...the only problem is, you love to have your hands up by your head and you have grabbed at the tube several times by accident.

 

Friday 7.20.12

 

We finally decided on your middle name this morning (Lynn) after being stalked by the birth certificate lady for 3 days.  It took us awhile (since you came early) we had it down to 3 names and decided to keep a family name going.

 

 

 

It took us 2.5 days to finally get a family picture of the 3 of us (outside of the OR) We just didn't think about it. We were so excited to see you, and hold you we just didn't think about it. But after some skin to skin time we got this shot. 

 

You are very alert today..it's so good to see you with your eyes open.

 

You love to squeeze our fingers, and we enjoy it too. You are very strong!

After this feeding dad went home to shower and I took grandma to the next feeding. 

 

 

This was her first time holding you and she was very excited for this.  I wish it could have happened sooner, but the NICU only allows 2 people in at a time. Grammy loved holding you, while I pumped. 

 

Dad surprised all of us tonight, when he arrived back at the hospital with a clean shaven face. I was so shocked when he walked in.  I thought he was only going to trim his beard..not take it all off!

 

 

 

Saturday 7.21.12

 

We arrived at your 8:30am feeding to find you in the "baby tanning bed" I was very surprised to see this, but know that it is very common (especially in preemie babies) Your bilirubin levels were only slightly elevated..nothing to severe (and I didn't even think you looked that yellow to me.) You only needed one day under the lights.

 

 

Here you are with Cynthia, our favorite NICU nurse.  We really formed a bond with her, and she loved talking to you while she was caring for you.  She loved calling you "baby girl", and watching you sleep with your mouth open while you were "catching flies" She was never pushy, and left us alone a lot of the time to bond with you (which we really appreciated!)

 

I was finally "discharged" from the hospital this afternoon after 4 days. I was free to go!  We were however put up in a "boarding room" which is a hospital room for NICU parents to stay at (free of charge) while your baby is still hospitalized. It is basically a hospital room, without nursing service or meals. We were very fortunate they had this room available, so we didn't have to keep running up to the hospital every 3 hours for a feeding.

 

Dad and I left the hospital after your 8:30 feeding.  I remember walking through the door to the outside world and feeling free.  Even if it was just to get some gas station food and take a drive..it felt good to get out! (even though it was still 95+ degrees out at 10pm at night!)  

 

Upon arriving back at the hospital, we recognize a car that is parked next to ours as one of our friends.  We later find out she is currently in labor.  

 

 

Sunday 7.22.12

  

 

 

You have made fabulous progress since midnight.  Your IV was removed, you no longer required the Bili light and you gained a half an ounce! (and pooped on dad!)   The doctor who made rounds this morning said that your feeding tube may come out very soon.  In order to do that, you need to be able to prove to them that you can eat, swallow and suck and gain weight on your own...so we got to bottle feed you for the first time today!  You did very well! 

 

You did have a "spell" today while I was feeding you. A Brady and Apnea lit up on your screen and the alarm started dinging at us.  I didn't think it was big deal..since you beep anytime a sensor comes loose from you...until 3 nurses came running in.  I was informed that your heart rate had dropped, and you had temporarily stopped breathing. Scary!! It happened once and you didn't need any resuscitation (you bounced right back as the nurses came in!)  I think you were just enjoying your bottle so much, you forgot what you were doing! :)  

 

You need to be spell free for 5 days in order to go home.

 

Madison Katherine arrived today, and is doing well. Megan was due on 7/30 (just 2 weeks before us.) We went down the hall to visit everyone today and share our birth stories.

 

 

Monday 7.23.12

 

I came in this morning to find that the nurses had dressed you in your very first preemie outfit overnight..you looked so cute! Such a big girl.   And..NO FEEDING TUBE!! We are all so excited at this huge milestone for you.  I knew you could do it.

 

We ran a bunch of errands between feedings today.  Dad and I got your car seat installed in my car this morning, and we went and got a breast pump so we can feed you when we get home. 

 

Dad and I spent the night at home in our own bed..which was fantastic.  We let the nurses know that we would be back for your 8:30am feeding.

 

Tuesday 7.24.12

 

 

1 week old!!

How is this for my 37 week photo?? :)  We have had a wonderful day today. You have been very happy, I'm feeling great after getting a good nights sleep and everyone says you will probably be going home this weekend! Yay!!

 

And then the phone call that changed everything.  My girlfriend Kristin called this evening to say that they had lost their baby!  I went blank...I was shocked, saddened, confused, numb..every emotion in the book.  I thought she was calling to tell us that they had delivered early..not the news I was expecting to hear!  She was due just 3 days before me! How could this have happened?  Jackson James will forever be in our hearts! 

 

Dad and I cried and grieved and talked a lot tonight. We can't imagine the pain that our closest friends are going through.  We gave you the biggest hug and kiss that night! We are very thankful that you are here with us, and healthy.

 

All I wanted to do was go home and sleep in my own bed tonight.  I was mentally drained.  The nurses however wanted us to stay, and attend all the night feedings, to ensure that you were getting enough food from me and not needing any additional supplements.   



 

Wednesday 7.25.12

 

We arrived this morning to find you out of your isolette and into a regular crib! Everyday is a new milestone and closer for you for being discharged.  We are so pleased. 

 

The nurses dressed you in winter jammies (kinda funny since it was 102 out today!) and you are holding your temperature well!

 

You are finally back up to your original birth weight of 4.14lbs!

 

When I changed your diaper this morning, I noticed that your umbilical cord "stump" had fallen off. The nurse had informed me that it had fallen off during your bath overnight. 

 

Thursday 7.26.12

 

 

Today was a low key day nothing too exciting. You continue to thrive and be spell free.  We have pretty much been told you will be getting out on Saturday!

 

Dad playing Temple Run on his phone.  He downloaded this game, and would play this while I was pumping or feeding. 

 

This particular feeding made us laugh (and gag) Joseph (the NICU baby behind us) took a big, stinky, loud poop. I guess Joseph only poops about once a week (not sure why!) and we were lucky enough to share this experience with him. His poor mom was on the verge of throwing up!  We were trying to contain our laughter.

 

All swaddled up and warm.

 

 

Friday 7.27.12

 

 

Overnight/early this morning they ran your car seat test.  They placed you in your car seat for 90 minutes and monitor your vitals.  I arrived at your 5:30 feeding, only to be informed that you "did not properly fit in your seat"  Excuse me? I know it is rated for 5-30lbs and you are a few ounces shy..but seriously? Apparently we need to go buy a new seat..I am LIVID!! We have a matching travel system and I really don't want to go spend another $150 on a car seat, I know we don't need!  I return to our room, and tell Pat what they told me.  We return to the NICU at 8:30 and he informs another nurse that the seat is adjustable and then dials the knob down.  The ditzy nurse had it cranked up as high as it would go...no wonder you didn't fit! (I wonder how many other people she has done this to?)

 

You were finally allowed to room out with us today.  You arrived in our room around 10am with a bili blanket (your levels were only slightly elevated) as a precautionary measure. It is so good to see you without all of those wires and monitors attached to you.

 

The London 2012 Olympics started tonight. Dad picked up Panera for dinner and we had a very nice dinner with grandma in our room while watching the opening ceremony

 

Our little glow worm

 

Saturday 7.28.12

 

Finally the day we have been waiting for..DISCHARGE DAY!!  The nurses came and picked you up early this morning to run some last minute labs on you.  She returned you just in time for the hospital photographer to make her rounds.  You really weren't feeling pictures at all! It was almost time to eat  and I think you might have been a bit cold.  We got some really great shots in your fancy hats though and had to be quick with the pacifier, cuddles and "whooshing" noise to keep you happy.

 

The weekend doctor checking you out, and giving you the "all clear"

 

After getting you dressed in your going home outfit, we packed up the cart and the crib and headed back to the NICU.  I was super nervous driving you back, while trying to stay off the carpet sensors. (to avoid setting off the "baby low jack")

 

Packed up and ready to go we are finally free!

 

Out in the car and headed home. What a crazy 11 days it has been.

Welcome, Mallory!! (A Birth Story)

Tuesday 7.17.12

 

If you told me this morning that I was going to wake up, have breakfast, and head to the doctor for my 36 week appointment and 11 hrs later have a baby..I would say "you've got to be kidding me..right?!" Well that's what happened today!! 29 days early!! 

 

10:15 am

 

I went in for my 36 week appointment this morning, checked in and was escorted down the hall to be weighed (up only 9 lbs from my original starting weight) and then to a room for my exam. My appointment was at 10:15am and my doctor was out on a delivery that morning and they would be expecting her back shortly.   My blood pressure was taken and it was unusually high that morning. I told the nurse that I had hurried into the office that morning so it could be elevated because of that.  She said she would be back in 5 minutes to check it again.  I laid down on my left side and took it easy while waiting for the nurse to come back.  She checked me again..still high!  She asked me if I had any blurred vision, seeing spots, headaches, swelling, anything...?? Nothing..I felt completely fine! Alright..the doctor should be here shortly.  As I lay there, trying to get internet on my phone (and failing) I looked through the magazines that were in the room (catching up on Jessica Simpson and Baby Maxwell) 30 minutes had gone by..and I am getting tired and bored.  The nurse knocked at the door and said they weren't sure how much longer it would be, and if I wanted to see another doctor or wait.  I choose to wait.  With paper thin walls, I can here the nurse on the phone trying to track down my doctor, and talking to other nurses and asking them "why the L&D department called her out so early if the lady wasn't even ready to push yet!"

 

11:30am 

 

My doctor finally arrives and is briefed on what is going on with me.  She checks my blood pressure again, and it is still high.  She gives me my Group B Strep test (GBS) and does an internal exam to see if I have started to dialate.  I have only thinned out at this point..no progress (thank goodness, because I am still early!) The next thing I know, she is ordering me to go next door to the hospital for routine monitoring of my blood pressure. Great!! So she calls the Special Addition Birth Center at the hospital next door to let them know that I will be right over.

 

11:45am 

 

I call Pat, who was VERY busy at work that morning (and even went in early today, to take care of some business) to let him know that I just finished my appointment, and that I was going next door to the hospital to be checked out.  I begin to sob at this point..and he knows something is wrong.  I reassure him that everything is fine, and that I am just scared. He asks me if I want him to leave work, but I told him to stay and it is probably nothing. I agree to call him back when I know more.

 

 

12:00pm

 

I arrive and get checked in at the desk. Thank goodness I had already pre registered 3 weeks prior.. they already had all my paperwork on file and hospital bracelets printed out!! They put a hospital band on me (which freaked me out!) and Ashley my nurse escorted me through the doors to the L&D rooms.  Does this mean I'm staying? Or is this routine?  Seems pretty permanent to me!!

 

12:15pm

 

I get checked into my room, #287 and Ashley asks me to change into a gown and then runs a basic medical history on me and then takes my vitals.  After she is all done with this she draws my blood and sends it to the lab to check for any irregularities:  proteins, platelet counts, kidney functions, etc...  to find out why my BP is so high. I am now hooked up to a blood pressure cuff and a fetal monitor to check to make sure the baby is doing alright

 

 

12:15 - 1:45pm

 

Ashley continues to monitor me every 15-30 minutes, with no sign of improvement. After speaking with my doctor, they have now decided to admit me and run a 24 hr urinalysis on me to check for protein in my urine. I call to let Pat know that I am now admitted and need a phone charger, because my phone is about to die..and if he needs me to call my room number.

 I was starving at this point! Ashley asked if she could get me anything and I said that I hadn't eaten anything since 8:30 that morning (and it was almost 2!) She was able to find a hospital tray with a turkey sandwich (which was the best thing ever, since I have not had any deli meat in approximately 8 months due to nitrates and listeria)  an apple, sun chips and a chocolate chip cookie were also on the tray..I ate everything! (Little did I know that this was going to be my last meal other then ice chips until breakfast on the 19th!!)

2:00- 3:30pm

Just hanging out by myself, watching tv and trying to rest.  (all while absolutely consumed with the thoughts that are running through my mind.)  I still can't figure this out..Why am I here? If I only have high numbers (and I feel fine) with no symptoms, then why do I have to stay? Why can't I just do my urinalysis at home, and pee in the big orange jug and bring it back in the am for testing?  What else are they going to find wrong with me from my labs (which every test came back absolutely normal) Is the baby alright? Am I going to have the baby today?  Can I have the baby today if I have only thinned out? Is she going to be healthy? And a million other questions.

Around 3:00 I texted my mom to let her know I was in the hospital being monitored EVERYTHING IS FINE..but my phone is going to die, and I gave her the phone number where she could reach me at. I can only imagine the panic when she saw that message even though I was fine. :)

3:30pm

Pat arrives, I start to cry when I see him.  I tell him everything that has been going on..he still can't believe I am in the hospital, and won't be going home that night. Another blood draw is done, and I am glad I have someone to hold my hand this time (I hate needles!)

4:00pm

I call my mom at 3 separate numbers and finally get a hold of her.  I let her know that everything is fine, my blood pressure is high and I am in the hospital for monitoring and a 24 hr urinalysis.  She is ready to go home and pack a bag, and get in the car and start driving 6.5-7 hrs!  I finally convince her not to! My labs are fine, and we were waiting on the doctor to come evaluate the situation. (Besides, she can't do anything for me anyways, and then if she drives down and stays, she is just going to have to come back in a month when the baby is born..so don't waste her time off on me.)  I'm a big girl..I'll be fine!

5:30pm

My mom calls again to ask if anything is new. Nope! She said she had already started to pack a bag and would be leaving for KS right after they finished dinner.  Just then my doctor walks in and I need to hang up and see what she is going to tell me. They want to start an IV and try giving me Magnesium to see if that will help bring my blood pressure down. She also lets me know my options at this point and this even includes having a baby tonight! HUH??...Excuse me!??!!

Before the IV is started (now the 3rd set of needles to poke me at this point) they inform me that I will no longer be able to get up out of bed due to the Magnesium (since one of the side effects is dizziness, and they don't need me falling down and passing out)  So now I am no longer allowed to get up and go to the bathroom. I beg my doctor and nurse one last time to be able to go to the bathroom on my own because I sure as hell don't want to be using the bed pan.. (I promised not to pass out, and they agreed.) I also tried my hardest to poop (just incase I was going to deliver that night) TMI..I know! :)  (and failed)

6:00- 6:30 pm

Magnesium kicks in..I feel hot and flushed, nauseous, my heart starts beating really fast. I ask for a cool compress and feel much better

6:30 pm

I finally feel well enough to call my mom to let her know that we are probably going to be having a baby tonight. She is already on the road, and mad that she didn't trust her first instincts and leave sooner so she could be there for the baby's arrival. I'm just glad she is on her way! 15 minutes later she is calling me back, wondering if she should turn around and pick up my dad too.  Pat had left to finish something that had to be done at work.  He felt bad leaving me, but it's not like I was going anywhere and it was time sensitive and had to get done. (he was back within the hour)

7:00 pm

Sift change: Ashley is done and Lacey is now in charge.  I just hope she is as nice as my first nurse. (and she is) After being briefed on why I was there, she administers another dose of Magnesium and this time I threw up.  Thank goodness for the cone shaped barf bags, since I couldn't get up to throw up!  Lacey felt horrible that I didn't feel well and kept saying "bless your little heart" (she was very southern)

7:30 pm

Pat arrives back at the hospital, and was now going to head home and shower, eat dinner and pack a bag of stuff we were going to need for our hospital stay

7:40 ish pm

No more then 10 minutes after Pat left my doctor came in and let me know that we were going in for surgery and this baby was coming tonight!  After discussing our options earlier, and knowing that they could induce me and I would likely stall out in labor and then need a C, a  C section was ordered and the OR was notified.  She kept apologizing to me, knowing this is not what I had planned, but to tell you the truth..I had hours to think about this and I was okay with this option.  I did ask if we could wait until Pat got back..and they said they wouldn't do it without him there!  Lacey is already bringing in supplies to prep her and me for surgery.  Anesthesia also came in and I signed my consent paperwork.

7:55- 8 pm

I call Pat to let him know that he needs to hurry back to the hospital, because we were going in for surgery as soon as he got back!  I could sense the panic in his voice (which I never hear, because he is so calm and level headed) I told him to "hurry, but be safe" he grabbed the cameras and ipad and headed back out the door.  No shower or dinner for this dad to be.

I call my mom next to let her know that as soon as Pat comes back, we are going in for surgery. She can't believe how fast everything is happening

8-8:45 pm

I am prepped and ready for surgery: papers are signed, jewelry removed, compression socks on, hairnet in place, catheter inserted, fentanyl hooked up..now a waiting game.  Pat calls me one last time at 8:15 to make sure there is nothing else I need.. I tell him just bring the camera! (ahh..priorities!) He arrives back at the hospital within 20 minutes

8:45- 9:11 pm

Here we go.. I am as ready as I am going to be. (And I am surprisingly calm!)  I am wheeled out of my room, and down the hall to the OR.  I just remember how good it felt to get out of my room and into the cool air conditioned hall. (my room was very warm..and the magnesium didn't help) Pat had to stay behind the doors in the waiting area and get changed into his scrubs, while I proceeded into the OR for last minute prep.  At this point there was a whole room full of people for me and the baby once she was born. (I would say 10-12 people total..Dr's, nurses, NICU nurses, Anesthesia, etc..)

I was transferred from my hospital bed to the OR table and told to hang my feet off the edge of the bed so my epidural could be placed.  (Now remind you I was going to do a drug free birth because I hate needles so much)   Lacey is in front of me and she is holding me in place while the doc places my Epidural. It didn't hurt nearly as bad as I thought it was going to (thank god) I do remember the initial stick but then I started breathing through it and was alright.  It felt like I had cinder blocks tied to my ankles, my legs were so heavy! Lacey helped lay me down and then the curtain was put up.  I still remember thinking it felt like my legs were bent at the knees and up in the air..but they reassured me I was completely flat.  I also remember feeling tingly and heavy as the juice worked it's magic. I tried to move my legs..and couldn't! Very weird!!

Then the nausea kicked in that I was warned about.  I got really hot and sweaty and the anesthesia doc knew it was coming when he was talking to me and asking how I was doing.  He got me a bucket and after spitting up a few times, I was good. Have you ever puked while laying down? Not fun..They even had a dentist type sucker to clean out my mouth.  He got me a cool compress and I finally felt good enough to continue on with surgery.

At this point I'm "stable" so Pat is allowed to enter the OR.  I barely recognized him because he was dressed like one of the doctors in his scrubs and face shield.  He got to sit up by my head and hold my hand.  He asked how I was doing, and I told him everything that had happened to me in the last 15 minutes.  At this point I had the shakes (which is normal) the epidural had  made me shake so uncontrollably that it almost hurt. I remember clenching my fists and jaw so tightly it hurt.

Now the team is ready to begin. I remember them poking around different areas, asking if I could feel anything, and I couldn't. It all happened so fast..I could smell burning from them cauterizing, and then saying that there would be some pressure, which I didn't think was that bad..and the next thing I know they asked Pat to stand up if he wanted a picture cause she was almost here.

And at 9:12 pm

 

Mallory Lynn Mahoney was born

( we later learned the cord was wrapped around her neck, waist and leg!)

 

4lbs 14 oz and 17.5" long

 

Our first family photo

 

 I still can't believe when they called out her weight how small she was. Really..not even 5lbs?!  I remember waiting for her to cry, and thinking I hope she is alright..and then it started.  I was so relieved!!  Pat asked me if he should stay with me or go with her.  I wanted pictures, so of course..go with her!  I laid there getting put back together, and he headed off with Mallory to be weighed and checked out. He later came back with her and we got our first family picture.  They then wisked her off to the NICU.

 

After surgery we headed back to my room for the night. With a normal birth they move you to the postpartum side within hours, but since I was on Magnesium..I was staying put on the labor side for now for further observation.  I finally was allowed ice chips and was on a "clear diet"

 

Another thing that surprised me was pumping. By 10:30 that night..they already had me working out that first "milk" to take to Mallory.  Apparently I got a lot! The nurses were very surprised (as was I) for being early I wasn't sure how this whole process was going to work.

 

 

Wednesday 7.18.12

 

2:00am

 

My mom arrived! I was so excited to see her (even though I was high as a kite on Fentanyl!) We chatted for a bit and then we called my dad to let him know that my mom had made it and how I was doing.

 

 

2:45 am

 

Pat and my mom went to the NICU to see Mallory.  They took a lot of pictures so I could see her through photos. (Since I was bed ridden)  I was very thankful for this! Since it would be 27 hours after birth that I would finally get to see her.

 

 

Mallory's "home" for the next 11 days

 

 

Such a little peanut

 

3:30am

 

My mom headed back to our house and we finally went to bed for the night. What a crazy day!! Our lives are now forever changed! Now onto recovery

 

Hospital story to come!

 

 

 

 

         


















 

 



36 Weeks/ 9 Months

7.17.12

How your baby's growing:

Your baby is still packing on the pounds — at the rate of about an ounce a day. She now weighs almost 6 pounds (like a crenshaw melon) and is more than 18 1/2 inches long.

She's shedding most of the downy covering of hair that covered her body as well as the vernix caseosa, the waxy substance that covered and protected her skin during her nine-month amniotic bath. Your baby swallows both of these substances, along with other secretions, resulting in a blackish mixture, called meconium, will form the contents of her first bowel movement.

At the end of this week, your baby will be considered full-term. (Full-term is 37 to 42 weeks; babies born before 37 weeks are pre-term and those born after 42 are post-term.) Most likely she's in a head-down position. But if she isn't, your practitioner may suggest scheduling an "external cephalic version," which is a fancy way of saying she'll try to coax your baby into a head-down position by manipulating her from the outside of your belly.

How your life's changing: 

Now that your baby is taking up so much room, you may have trouble eating a normal-size meal. Smaller, more frequent meals are often easier to handle at this point. On the other hand, you may have less heartburn and have an easier time breathing when your baby starts to "drop" down into your pelvis. This process — called lightening — often happens a few weeks before labor if this is your first baby. (If you've given birth before, it probably won't happen before labor starts.) If your baby drops, you may also feel increased pressure in your lower abdomen, which may make walking increasingly uncomfortable, and you'll probably find that you have to pee even more frequently. If your baby is very low, you may feel lots of vaginal pressure and discomfort as well. Some women say it feels as though they're carrying a bowling ball between their legs!

You might also notice that your Braxton Hicks contractions are more frequent now. Be sure to review the signs of labor with your practitioner and find out when she wants to hear from you. As a general rule, if you're full-term, your pregnancy is uncomplicated, and your water hasn't broken, she'll probably have you wait to come in until you've been having contractions that last for about a minute each, coming every five minutes for an hour. Of course, you'll want to call right away if you notice a decrease in your baby's activity or think you're leaking amniotic fluid, or if you have any vaginal bleeding, fever, a severe or persistent headache, constant abdominal pain, or vision changes.
Even if you're enjoying an uncomplicated pregnancy, it's best to avoid flying (or any travel far from home) during your final month because you can go into labor at any time. In fact, some airlines won't let women on board who are due to deliver within 30 days of the flight.

Update:

- So.. it's a little hard to remember back this far (7 weeks) but I am going to do my best! :)

- I have been eating smaller meals lately. Saturday morning at work we had donuts and at lunch the pharmacy ordered Papa John's..while both were good I was very full and had very little room left for seconds or the meals or snacks I brought with me.

- I switched my reading material from "What to Expect While Expecting" to "Caring for your Baby and Young Child" I figured I might as well prepare for what is to come.

- Sunday 7/15 I went and organized all the clothes in your closet according to size and hung the majority of them up..you have A LOT of clothes!!

- It has remained VERY hot this week (temps in the high 90's and low to mid 100's!) we have been taking it easy inside, because even just walking to my car or to the mailbox is a lot of work!

- I got adjusted by Dr Fitz on 7/16..I have been having a lot of back and leg pain and it's been getting harder for me to sleep at night.

- I have a meeting with the Maternity Care Coordinator on Wednesday 7/18. We are going to go over my birth plan, hospital stay, insurance and any other questions I may have.

- My 36 week appointment was this morning 7/17 at 10:15 My doctor was out on a delivery and they asked if I wanted to wait or see another doctor. I said I would wait.. figuring it wouldn't be that long. They checked my blood pressure and it was very high. They said they would check it again after a few minutes to see if it had come down and it hadn't.  Finally at 11:30 my doctor arrived, and I was seen. After an internal exam ( I had only thinned out, no dialation) and a Group B strep test (GBS) they sent me next door to the hospital to be monitored closer since my blood pressure was so high..and now here is where the story of you begins...

Really kicking myself now for not getting that 36 week photo!! ( or for not taking weekly photos past 32 weeks!)

 

Inside pregnancy: Labor and birth

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35 Weeks

35 Weeks: 7.10.12

How your baby's growing:

Your baby doesn't have much room to maneuver now that he's over 18 inches long and tips the scales at 5 1/4 pounds (pick up a honeydew melon).

 Because it's so snug in your womb, he isn't likely to be doing somersaults anymore, but the number of times he kicks should remain about the same. His kidneys are fully developed now, and his liver can process some waste products. Most of his basic physical development is now complete — he'll spend the next few weeks putting on weight.

How your life's changing:

Your uterus — which was entirely tucked away inside your pelvis when you conceived — now reaches up under your rib cage. If you could peek inside your womb, you'd see that there's more baby than amniotic fluid in there now. Your ballooning uterus is crowding your other internal organs, too, which is why you probably have to urinate more often and may be dealing with heartburn and other gastrointestinal distress. If you're not grappling with these annoyances, you're one of the lucky few.
From here on out, you'll start seeing your practitioner every week.

Sometime between now and 37 weeks, she'll do a vaginal and rectal culture to check for bacteria called Group B streptococci (GBS). (Don't worry — the swab is the size of a regular cotton swab, and it won't hurt at all.) GBS is usually harmless in adults, but if you have it and pass it on to your baby during birth, it can cause serious complications, such as pneumonia, meningitis, or a blood infection. Because 10 to 30 percent of pregnant women have the bacteria and don't know it, it's vital to be screened. (The bacteria come and go on their own — that's why you weren't screened earlier in pregnancy.) If you're a GBS carrier, you'll get IV antibiotics during labor, which will greatly reduce your baby's risk of infection.

10 tips for breastfeeding success

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This is also a good time to create a birth plan. Using our form will help you focus on specifics — like who'll be present, what pain management techniques you want to try, and where you want your baby to stay after you deliver. It will give you a starting point to discuss your preferences with your medical team. Childbirth is unpredictable, and chances are you won't follow your plan to the letter, but thinking about your choices ahead of time — and sharing your preferences with your caregiver — should take some of the anxiety out of the process.

Update:
- This has been a pretty good week despite the 100+ temps outside. Pat and I are staying cool inside in the air, and 3 days this week we even went to the neighborhood pool.

-  Heartburn has been a big issue this week. I can tell I am running out of room, because I have been eating smaller meals, and they still don't sit right.  Friday night we picked up Subway, I had a 3 hr couch nap and then went to bed.  Once I got upstairs the acids had shifted and I got sick.

- The need to pee more frequently hasn't caught up again with me yet, but I think it has just been so hot that the fluids I am taking in, I am sweating back out.

- My doctor was out of the office this week due to the 4th so I decided to skip this 2 week appt.  I go again next week on the 17th

- The biggest thing this week that we did, was take our Childbirth Class  (blog post on this to come) We learned a lot and we were both glad we took it.  Tonight we have our Newborn Care class.

- I'm still getting kicked/punched but my biggest annoyance is something bony up high. Knee? Elbow? Right under my rib cage. It still startles me sometimes. And I know that she is running out of room in there.

- Nesting also kicked in full force this week! I have been cleaning house, organizing, starting/finishing projects, making meals. I'm pretty proud of myself! It also helped that I only had to work 8 hr days this week due to the 4th of July holiday mid week.

34 Weeks

34 Weeeks: 7.3.12

How your baby's growing:

Your baby now weighs about 4 3/4 pounds (like your average cantaloupe) and is almost 18 inches long.

Her fat layers — which will help regulate her body temperature once she's born — are filling her out, making her rounder. Her skin is also smoother than ever. Her central nervous system is maturing and her lungs are continuing to mature as well. If you've been nervous about preterm labor, you'll be happy to know that babies born between 34 and 37 weeks who have no other health problems generally do fine. They may need a short stay in the neonatal nursery and may have a few short-term health issues, but in the long run, they usually do as well as full-term babies.

How your life's changing: 

By this week, fatigue has probably set in again, though maybe not with the same coma-like intensity of your first trimester. Your tiredness is perfectly understandable, given the physical strain you're under and the restless nights of frequent pee breaks and tossing and turning, while trying to get comfortable.

Now's the time to slow down and save up your energy for labor day (and beyond). If you've been sitting or lying down for a long time, don't jump up too quickly. Blood can pool in your feet and legs, causing a temporary drop in your blood pressure when you get up that can make you feel dizzy.

If you notice itchy red bumps or welts on your belly and possibly your thighs and buttocks as well, you may have a condition called pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP for short)

Newborn care immediately after birth

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Up to one percent of pregnant women develop PUPPP, which is harmless but can be quite uncomfortable. See your practitioner so she can make sure it's not a more serious problem, provide treatment to make you more comfortable, and refer you to a dermatologist if necessary. Also be sure to call her if you feel intense itchiness all over your body, even if you don't have a rash. It could signal a liver problem.

Update:

- This week has been very busy. I have been shopping and filling in the holes for things we still need right away, but did not receive at the shower.

- I have been VERY tired.  I have been sleeping at night, but usually get up once to go to the bathroom and have been very thirsty when I do so.  I have added a king size bed pillow this week, to see if it helps and it does.  My belly just needed to be supported by something soft while I slept.

-  I called the Maternity care coordinator and set up my 1 hr appt with her.  I also filled out my pre registration hospital paper work. 

- Friday 6.29.12 I had the worst leg/calf cramp of my life.  It has been very hot out, and with all the extra weight and strain..I think my leg just gave out.  I was napping on the couch, and got up to go to bed..and the cramping began.  I scared my husband, because he wanted to help me, but I didn't want him to touch my calf because it hurt so bad.  Finally after what seemed to be the longest 1 minute of my life, it finally stopped. I couldn't straighten my leg, or foot..it was awful! My husband said when he played football they used to get cramps like that..I don't wish them on anyone! 3 days later and my calf is still tight (making it hard to walk normal and go down the stairs!

-My feet have begun to swell. (I blame the heat!) I hadn't really noticed, and then my coworker made a comment after I wore some strappy sandals to work, and how my feet looked "puffier." Well by the end of the week after 30 hours of work and 100+ temps outside we went to a picnic and my feet REALLY started to swell. I couldn't wait to get home and take a cool shower and put my feet up.

- I'm feeling very round now, and it has even been hard to breathe some days because she is sitting up so high.

- I have been enjoying my 8 hr work days this week. (Because of the 4th of July holiday) It's nice to go home and get projects done and nap if I choose.

- I have had that nesting instinct kick in. I want everything clean and organized and home projects that I have been putting off done!

33 Weeks

33 Weeks: 6.26.12

How your baby's growing:

This week your baby weighs a little over 4 pounds (heft a pineapple) and has passed the 17-inch mark.

She's rapidly losing that wrinkled, alien look and his skeleton is hardening. The bones in her skull aren't fused together, which allows them to move and slightly overlap, thus making it easier for her to fit through the birth canal. (The pressure on the head during birth is so intense that many babies are born with a conehead-like appearance.) These bones don't entirely fuse until early adulthood, so they can grow as his brain and other tissue expands during infancy and childhood.

How your life's changing:

As your baby fills out even more of your belly, lots of things might start to change: Whereas before you were sashaying, you may find yourself waddling. Finding an easy position to sit in — let alone sleep — is becoming more of a challenge. And bumping into chairs and counters is par for the course.

You may be feeling some achiness and even numbness in your fingers, wrists, and hands. Like many other tissues in your body, those in your wrist can retain fluid, which can increase pressure in the carpal tunnel, a bony canal in your wrist.

Nerves that run through this "tunnel" may end up pinched, creating numbness; tingling, shooting or burning pain; or a dull ache. Try wearing a splint to stabilize your wrist or propping your arm up with a pillow when you sleep. If your work requires repetitive hand movements (at a keyboard or on an assembly line, for instance), remember to stretch your hands when you take breaks — which should be frequently.

Many women are still feeling sexy at this stage — and their partners often agree. You may need to make some adjustments, but for most women, sex during pregnancy is fine right up until their water breaks or their labor starts.

Update:

-  This week has been exhausting for me.  After traveling the last 2 weekends in a row for weddings and baby showers, I needed a break.  I went back to work Thursday and by Monday I was burnt out and needed a nap. 

- Little M has now set up shop high in my ribs and has started kicking me.  Even my coworkers were asking if I was okay on Monday because I kept making faces and grabbing at my belly. I was actually grimacing from your jabs! I don't think you like me sitting for long periods of time, because I must be squishing "your space" but too bad little lady... I work 4 10's so get used to it.

- Sunday 6.24.12 Dad and I assembled your swing, exersaucer and pack and play. All those boxes were taking up room in the dining room and we decided to tackle it and get it ready for you.

-  I finally got adjusted yesterday and was long overdue. I even got put in the room that has the drop down table with the cutout for my belly. I guess that means I am getting big enough now, with 7 weeks to go! :) I feel so much better, and slept great last night. And even talked to my chiropractor about his newest arrival who is just a little over 2 weeks old!

- Today I'm finishing up the last few thank you notes for all the good stuff I received at my baby shower. It was a big task, but I am so grateful for wonderful friends and family members.

- I definitely feel like I am starting to waddle. (Especially after sitting for long periods of time) Even laying on my side on the couch has proven interesting. And I am having troubles sleeping through the night in the last week.

- I don't feel like I have full blown carpal tunnel, but after having a week off and then going back to work and repeatedly doing my job over and over my hands do get a little sore. 

- I'm thinking a prenatal massage may be in order. I received a gift card for my birthday, and as a reward to myself for getting things accomplished in a timely matter I feel I owe myself!  (and to relieve my aches and pains and just relax!!)

- The heat is taking a toll on me! Thank god for a/c!! The last week since we got home it has been consistently in the mid to upper 90's! Today's high is 101 and tomorrow it is supposed to be 104!! We might go to the pool and take a dip for awhile but otherwise I will be inside.

32 Weeks/ 8 Months

8 Months/32 Weeks: 6.19.12

How your baby's growing:

By now, your baby weighs 3.75 pounds (pick up a large jicama) and is about 16.7 inches long, taking up a lot of space in your uterus.

You're gaining about a pound a week and roughly half of that goes right to your baby. In fact, she'll gain a third to half of her birth weight during the next 7 weeks as she fattens up for survival outside the womb. She now has toenails, fingernails, and real hair (or at least respectable peach fuzz). Her skin is becoming soft and smooth as she plumps up in preparation for birth.

How your life's changing:

To accommodate you and your baby's growing needs, your blood volume has increased 40 to 50 percent since you got pregnant. With your uterus pushing up near your diaphragm and crowding your stomach, the consequences may be shortness of breath and heartburn. To help relieve your discomfort, try sleeping propped up with pillows and eating smaller meals more often.

You may have lower-back pain as your pregnancy advances.

Vacuum and forceps during birth

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If you do, let your caregiver know right away, particularly if you haven't had back pain before, since it can be a sign of preterm labor.  Assuming it's not preterm labor that's ailing you, you can probably blame your growing uterus and hormonal changes for your aching back. Your expanding uterus shifts your center of gravity and stretches out and weakens your abdominal muscles, changing your posture and putting a strain on your back. Hormonal changes in pregnancy loosen your joints and the ligaments that attach your pelvic bones to your spine. This can make you feel less stable and cause pain when you walk, stand, sit for long periods, roll over in bed, get out of a low chair or the tub, bend, or lift things.

Update:

- I had my 8 month appointment yesterday 6.19.12 Everything is still on track and measuring within normal range.  You were head down already when the doctor felt my belly. We heard the heartbeat again, and it sounded strong and healthy. I have one more appointment in 2 weeks and then I will start going in once a week until delivery.

- I have noticed a big growth spurt and kicks are stronger then ever.  Your dad finally got to feel you really move around..he was pretty excited.

- We went home to MN this past weekend for a couple of baby showers and had a wonderful time.  We got a lot of baby basics that we are going to need for your arrival (and a ton of cute outfits!) We are very thankful for great family and friends! Baby Shower blog to come!!

-  Grammy Tammy got to feel you move one night and she was very excited.  We also were able to feel your head or butt the way you were laying (i'm saying butt cause I could also feel your feet for the first time!)

- We ate really well this week all kinds of yummy food. You are definitely your mothers daughter..you got really excited and moved a bunch after eating cake.

- My back has been bothering me quite a bit more this week. It has often even been difficult to sit upright at my desk.  I was really worried how I was going to do in the car on the way to MN for 6.5 hrs..but we stopped to get gas at the halfway point and stopped at the MN rest stop to stretch (and go to the bathroom) Otherwise I think having a week off from work has done me well.

- I started writing Thank You notes today for all the wonderful gifts we received, and am ready to do some shopping to fill in the holes for things we still need.

- We purchased some Dreft baby soap yesterday and can finally start washing up all of your new outfits.

32 Weeks