Tag Archives: Baby Stats

Thirty Five Weeks – The 411

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Whole honeydew melon with stem in green bowl on green table

How my baby’s growing

The baby doesn’t have much room to maneuver now that she’s over 18 inches long and tips the scales at 5 1/4 pounds (about the size of a honeydew melon). Because it’s so snug in your womb, she isn’t likely to be doing somersaults anymore, but the number of times she kicks should remain about the same. Her kidneys are fully developed now, and her liver can process some waste products. Most of her basic physical development is now complete. She’ll spend the next few weeks putting on weight.

How Mommy’s 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 pee 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 doctor or midwife every week. Sometime between now and 37 weeks, she’ll do a vaginal and rectal culture to check for bacterium called group B streptococcum (GBS). (Don’t worry – the swab is the size of a regular cotton swab, and it won’t hurt.) 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.

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 doctor or midwife – should take some of the anxiety out of the process.

Learn about: Arriving at the hospital

How can I prepare for my arrival at the hospital?

Long before you go into labor, you and your partner should map out the most direct route to the hospital or birth center. Find out where to park, keeping in mind that you’ll be leaving your car for at least 24 hours. Ask the hospital staff where you should enter if you arrive after-hours. Most hospitals offer tours of the obstetrical floor at designated times. Taking advantage of these tours will give you a chance to do a dry run before the big day.

BABY STATS:

How Far Along?

35 weeks !

How Big Is The Little One?

My baby is the size of a honeydew melon and she weighs 4lb 3 oz

Total Weight Gain / Loss?

Although I lost 27 pounds my first trimester, I have only gained a total of 13 pounds. Since I was in the hospital for two days and given 3-4 bags of fluids, I can not do an accurate weight reading this week.

Maternity Clothes?

I am wearing the same maternity clothing:  jeans, capris, oversized tees, maternity tees, body con dresses, sundresses, and a few of my baggy dresses from pre-pregnancy.

Sleep?

I have been sleeping well.  It was hard to sleep the two days I was in the hospital because of the monitors and the unfamiliar noises.

Best Moment of the Week?

The best moment I had this week was the relief of knowing the bleeding was not an issue of my baby and that the baby and I both were fine and also hearing of the excitement of the little gifts I sent to my sister-friend’s children.  One child has been sick and the older toddler helped to care for the other.  I was so tickled to hear how much they enjoyed the little tokens.   Now I am gearing up for my mother’s reconstructive surgery tomorrow.  She will be in the hospital for a few days.  I am just praying all remains stable with me and my little munchkin and that my mom’s surgery goes smoothly.

Symptoms?

I have an external hemorrhoid which has not gone back down.  Some mornings, I awake a bit queasy and my skin is often overly sensitive and itchy. I take children’s liquid Benedryl and it helps tremendously.  This week, I seem to be burping a lot.

Food Cravings?

I still have no appetite so I do not crave anything in particular.

Food Aversions?

None

Gender?

Girl !,

Labor Signs?

I experienced contractions after a vaginal exam in the hospital.  They discovered that I was very dehydrated and after 2 bags of fluids, the contractions stopped.

What I Miss?

Nothing at the moment except being at the beach.

What I Am Looking Forward To?

Seeing my baby and holding her.

Bump?

My little soccer ball is still nice and round.

Navel In/Out?

In

Baby Purchases?

This week, my baby’s 4Moms Breeze Play yard in Grey arrived at Target.  I had giftcards from my shower and Sunday was Run Target day with 10% off, coupled with my 15% off completion coupon, I ordered the play yard so that I could maximize the discounts on the $300 large ticket item. I ended up getting $90 off ! I also ordered a Milk Snob carseat cover to match the baby’s Kate Spade baby bag.

Thirty-Three Weeks – The 411

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Two pineapples in wicker basket on table

How my baby’s growing

This week your baby weighs about 5 pounds and has passed the 17-inch mark (about the size of a pineapple). She’s rapidly losing that wrinkled, alien look, and her 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 cone-head–like appearance.) These bones don’t entirely fuse until early adulthood, so they can grow as her brain and other tissue expands during infancy and childhood.

How mommy’s 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 up your arm 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 still feel 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.

Learn about: Monitoring your baby’s movements

How often should I feel movements?

Your baby should be moving as frequently as she has for the last month or so. Every baby has her own pattern of activity and there’s no correct one. As long as you don’t notice any major changes in your baby’s activity level, chances are she’s doing just fine.

Do I need to keep track of my baby’s kicks?

For an added sense of security, many healthcare providers recommend that after 28 weeks, you formally monitor your baby’s movements at least once or twice a day. There are lots of different ways to do these “kick counts,” so check with your doctor or midwife about how she wants you to track your baby’s movements. Here’s one common approach: Choose a time of day when your baby tends to be active. (Ideally, you’ll want to do the counts at roughly the same time each day.) Sit quietly or lie on your side so you won’t get distracted. Time how long it takes for you to feel 10 distinct movements – kicks, twitches, and whole body movements all count. You should feel at least 10 movements within two hours. (Don’t worry; it probably won’t take that long. Sometimes you’ll feel 10 kicks within the first 10 minutes.) If you don’t feel 10 movements in two hours, stop counting and call your healthcare provider.

What should I do if I think my baby’s movements have slowed or changed?

Let your doctor or midwife know right away if you notice a slowdown of your baby’s movements. A decrease in fetal movement may signal a problem, and you’ll need a nonstress test or biophysical profile to check on your baby.

BABY STATS:

How Far Along?

33 weeks !

How Big Is The Little One?

My little angel is the size of a pineapple

Total Weight Gain / Loss?

I did not weigh this week, but as of last weigh in, I was up 8 pounds.  I lost 27 pounds first trimester, so I think I am doing pretty good !

Maternity Clothes?

Still rocking running pants, maternity leggings, oversized tees, body con dresses and mostly pjs since I have barely left the house this week.  The baby shower wore me OUT !

Sleep?

I sleep pretty well.  I do wake up a few times to urinate, but otherwise, I have no problem falling asleep.

Best Moment of the Week?

My week has pretty much revolved around resting, cooking and baking.  I was craving fried flounder and chips so I made that yesterday and today I wanted Baby Lima Bean and Country Ham Bone Soup, homemade buttermilk biscuits and grilled center cut pork chops.  I made egg custard pies for my mom using my great Grandmom’s recipe with a few tweaks of my own.  I wanted swiss n cheddar burgers for breakfast and homemade fresh cut fries so I made that at 8 am lol.  I only eat a few bites of anything before I am full, so I do not worry about weight gain.  Now that I am not as repulsed by the smell of food and sight of food, I really enjoyed the few bites of food I indulged in this week.

Symptoms?

My baby has been extremely active the past few days.  She was almost radio silent for the past few weeks with the exception of certain times.  Now, she is moving a lot again… Especially when I am trying to sleep or when I put belly buds on and play Mozart or Beethoven.

Constipation is plaguing me so I am back to taking 3 Colace in the am and drinking coffee with Miralax in it periodically.  That does the trick.

I had blood work last week and my TSH is extremely low (.066), my protein, fluid levels iron levels, Vitamin D, calcium, platelet counts, rbc… everything is LOW !  The baby is taking all my nutrients.  My sister instructed me to up my fluid intake and protein.  I went to get protein shakes but the kind I like was out of stock.  I will make a point of getting some this weekend and start drinking two per day that are 35g each.

Food Cravings?

Burgers, fresh cut fries, cheese, fried fish

Food Aversions?

None

Gender?

Female

Labor Signs?

None

What I Miss?

Wine and Sangria

What I Am Looking Forward To?

Meeting this little angel and seeing who she looks like… what she sounds like… what she smells like.

Bump?

My bump is growing a little… becoming more round.


Navel In/Out?

In

Baby / Mommy Purchases?

I didn’t buy anything this week.

What’s New?

My mom is going to be doing her reconstructive surgery in a week.  I am hoping the have a cancellation and can get her in next week so that she has time to properly heal before I have my cesarean.  Since they are doing a tummy tuck for a flap and her breasts, I am hoping she will be able to sit up straight and be functional by the time baby girl is here, since I will not be able to lift her.

Thirty Two Weeks – The 411

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How my baby’s growing

By now, your baby weighs 4 1/2 pounds (about the size of 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. 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.

She is sleeping approximately 90 to 95 percent of the day.

Most of her wrinkles are disappearing, especially on her face, as more fat is deposited under her skin. Her hair is becoming thicker with each passing week, and you may even be able to see it on an ultrasound! She will also begin to settle in the head-down position, as her birth is fast approaching.

How mommy’s life is 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. If you do, let your doctor or midwife 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 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.

BABY STATS:

How Far Along?

32 Weeks !!  Woot Woot !!!

How Big Is The Little One?

The baby is the size of a jicama

Total Weight Gain / Loss?

I have gained 1 lb 3 oz this week for a total gain of 8.5 pounds.  I lost 27 lbs the first trimester.

Maternity Clothes?

I am still rocking maternity jean, capris, body con dresses, and oversized tees and running leggings.

Sleep?

I am sleeping most of the night with the exception of getting up to pee.  Occasionally I fall asleep earlier than normal and I wake up for a few hours and watch tv before going back to sleep.

Best Moment of the Week?

Although the baby shower day started off bad for me, as we got stuck in traffic and arrived 40 minutes prior to the start of the shower and we were 20 mins late starting because we had to set up and I was already upset that 12 people (some rsvp’d for 2 ppl) cancelled the week of the shower, some the day or two before, and  8 people were no shows, causing me to lose $2500 , after the room was put together, I calmed down and decided to just enjoy this day I had worked so hard on for the past several months. Those who were supposed to be there were and those who wanted to be there and could not were there in spirit and the all the rest… EFF THEM ! 🙂    The room decor, the floral arrangements, the food, etc … was perfect.  The event was very elegant and beautiful, just the way I envisioned it.  My family and friends had an amazing time and loved the decor.

After the baby shower, we packed up and cleaned up the party room.  Before I could get the car out of the garage, I noticed I had 26 invites on Instagram and a ton of replies to some posts on Facebook.  I click on it to see that two of my friends posted pictures from the event without asking me.  That started a shitstorm of comments, emails, inboxes, calls and texts !   My personal life is private and I keep it very separate from my public life.  Everyone who I wanted to know about my pregnancy and life, knew.  Now all of the 5000 FB fans, old classmates, other family whom I do not even deal with nor speak too, associates etc, were seeing the pics posted and started asking if I was pregnant or congratulating me… all of which I ignored !   I DO NOT comment on my personal life PERIOD.   I ended up at the mall after my mom’s physical therapy appointment on Monday, so I changed my cell phone number, which I had planned to do some time ago when the whole stalking situation was in full swing.  The FBI and NYPD I was dealing with suggested I not change it at that time so that the stalker would keep contacting and they could document it and build a case.   It was time to do a purge anyway.  Too many people over time have been given my number for various reasons and I do not stay in contact with these people.  It amazes me that they felt it appropriate to text me and ask if I were pregnant.  I went to the posts on FB and changed the audience viewing on the pics so that only those tagged in it and those I wanted to see the pics could actually see it and now the drama has died down.  I was livid that my friends posted those pics.  You do NOT do that.  Just because you were invited to an event does not translate to you posting pics for the world to see unless you clear it with the event host.  I hired a professional photographer and a professional videographer to document the event and to put together a video and photo cd for the guests. Now I see why people make you put cell phones in a basket at the entrance to venues !    There is a previous post I made about my baby shower.  Take a peek to see the pics…

Today, I went to LabCorp for a ton of blood work.  I was supposed to have an OB appointment, but I did not feel up to the 3hr train ride to NYC from DC and back.  My legs were very swollen after the baby shower all the way up to my hips !  My legs and ankles looked like they belonged to someone else…   I had the blood work ordered stat and sent to CNY as well as my OB.  I have my next appointment in 2 weeks anyway and also an MFM appointment for a scan and other testing, so unless I start feeling symptoms or feeling bad, I am good with that !

Symptoms?

My skin has been feeling like it is crawling and is super sensitive.  My sister told me to take Benedryl for the itching and crawling feeling and it worked !  I took a few doses of liquid children’s Benedryl and I have been fine since.  My baby feels a lot heavier and she does not move as much as she was before.  It is like she is asleep most of the time.

My boobs FINALLY stopped hurting !   I was in so much pain and the pain evolved to a shooting and stabbing type pain.  On Saturday, it finally just went away !

I have kankles ! 😦

Food Cravings?

I have had no real cravings lately.  Today, I wanted bbq chicken and fresh cooked veggies, so I made that, ate a plate and got over full after eating only half the plate.

Food Aversions?

My aversions are pretty much gone, thank goodness !

Gender?

It’s a GIRL !!!!

Labor Signs?

None

What I Miss

Sangria and a nice glass of wine

What I Am Looking Forward To?

Being able to see this baby and bond with her.  Getting back to the beach for the Winter and hanging out on the beach with the baby and my mom.

Bump?

Still a soccer ball !   I have not gotten much bigger.

Navel In/Out?

In

Baby / Mommy Purchases?.

The only things I have bought were Aden & Anais swaddling blankets I found at SAMS Club for $6.41 and $4.91 for a FOUR pack !!  Such a steal so I bought 24 of them lol.

I will finish up my registry at the end of the month after I wait to see what other items are purchased by those who claim they are going to send a gift who didn’t bother to show up for my shower.  I was waiting for Amazon and Target to post the 15% off completion coupon.  They finally posted them this week so I will wait until the first week of September and then order the few things that we will need, which is basically her Mamaroo swing/bouncer, 4Moms play yard/bassinet, high chair, crib sheets, and burpy bibs. Everything else, I have already purchased along the way or was gifted for the shower.

Twenty Nine Weeks ! – The 411

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How my baby’s growing

The baby now weighs about 2 1/2 pounds (about the size of a butternut squash) and is a tad over 15 inches long from head to heel. Her muscles and lungs are continuing to mature, and her head is growing bigger to make room for her developing brain. To meet her increasing nutritional demands, you’ll need plenty of protein, vitamin C, folic acid, and iron. And because her bones are soaking up lots of calcium, be sure to drink your milk (or find another good source of calcium, such as cheese, yogurt, or enriched orange juice). This trimester, about 250 milligrams of calcium are deposited in your baby’s hardening skeleton each day.

How mommy’s life’s changing

Your baby’s very active now. Your healthcare provider may ask you to spend some time each day counting kicks and will give you specific instructions on how to do this. Let your doctor or midwife know if you ever notice that your baby is becoming less active. You may need a nonstress test or biophysical profile to check on your baby.

Some old friends – heartburn and constipation – may take center stage now. The pregnancy hormone progesterone relaxes smooth muscle tissue throughout your body, including your gastrointestinal tract. This relaxation, coupled with the crowding in your abdomen, slows digestion. Sluggish digestion can cause gas and heartburn – especially after a big meal – and contribute to constipation.

Your growing uterus may also be contributing to hemorrhoids. These swollen blood vessels in your rectal area are common during pregnancy. Fortunately, they usually clear up in the weeks after giving birth.

If they’re itchy or painful, try soaking in warm water in a tub or a sitz bath or applying cold compresses medicated with witch hazel to the affected area. Avoid sitting or standing for long stretches. Talk with your healthcare provider before using any over-the-counter remedies during pregnancy, and let her know if you have any rectal bleeding. To prevent constipation, eat a high-fiber diet, drink plenty of water, and get regular exercise.

BABY STATS:

How Far Along?

29 weeks ! Wow… just wow !

How Big Is The Little One?

She is the size of a butternut squash

Total Weight Gain / Loss?

No weight gain this week.   I lost 27 pounds during 1st trimester and have gained only 8 so far, which is all baby and boobs !

Maternity Clothes?

I wear maternity jeans and capris.  I have some maternity tees but mostly wear running tights and oversized tees since I am in the house most of the day except my little walks or outings for errands, lunch, dinner shopping etc.  It is too hot out.  I try to go to the waterfront a few times a week and sit out for a few hours to get fresh air and sun.

Sleep?

My sleep pattern has improved, but I still can not get comfortable at night unless I strategically place pillows.

Best Moment of the Week?

Nothing that awesome has happened this week except baby shower gifts are starting to arrive.  I started writing and sending out thank you notes.  I am spending most of the week finishing up details for the baby shower.

Symptoms?

I have not dealt with too many symptoms this week. I have noticed that my feet are HOT !  My baby also has hiccups throughout the day which is THE weirdest feeling EVER !  🙂 I have noticed a slight increase in watery vaginal discharge and this thick white stuff in my nipples.

Food Cravings?

None

Food Aversions?

Salty foods and overly sweet foods.

Gender?

It’s a ….. GIRL !

Labor Signs?

None

What I Miss?

A nice glass of red wine sangria !

What I Am Looking Forward To?

Bonding with my daughter

Bump?

Oh yes !


Navel In/Out?

In

Baby / Mommy Purchases?

I bought my two bags for the hospital off of my registry this week.  I also purchased two more nursing tanks and a cute tee that says Me …. Mini Me !

Twenty Six Weeks !! – The 411

By

zucchini

How my baby’s growing

The network of nerves in your baby’s ears is better developed and more sensitive than before. She may now be able to hear both your voice as you chat with others. She’s inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid, which is essential for the development of her lungs. These so-called breathing movements are also good practice for when she’s born and takes that first gulp of air. Your baby is continuing to put on baby fat. She now weighs about 1 2/3 pounds (mine weights 1.12 pounds)  and measures 14 inches (about the length of a scallion) from head to heel. If you’re having a boy, his testicles should soon begin to descend into his scrotum – a trip that will take about two to three months.

26 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a scallion in length and the size of a large zucchini.

 

How mommy’s life’s changing

Are you rushing around trying to get to childbirth classes and prenatal visits, prepare your baby’s room, and take care of all your other daily tasks? Make sure that you also continue to eat well and get plenty of rest.

Around this time, your blood pressure may be increasing slightly, although it’s probably still lower than it was before you got pregnant. (Typically, blood pressure falls toward the end of the first trimester, and it tends to reach a low at about 22 to 24 weeks.)

Preeclampsia – a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure – most often shows up after 37 weeks, but it can happen earlier so it’s important to be aware of the warning signs. Call your healthcare provider if you have swelling in your face or puffiness around your eyes, more than slight swelling of your hands, excessive or sudden swelling of your feet or ankles, or rapid weight gain (more than 4 to 5 pounds in a week). With more severe preeclampsia, you may experience other symptoms. Let your doctor or midwife know immediately if you have a severe or persistent headache, vision changes (including double or blurred vision, seeing spots or flashing lights, sensitivity to light, or temporary loss of vision), intense pain or tenderness in your upper abdomen, or vomiting.

If your lower back seems a little achy lately, you can thank both your growing uterus – which shifts your center of gravity, stretches out and weakens your abdominal muscles, and may be pressing on a nerve – as well as hormonal changes that loosen your joints and ligaments. Plus, the extra weight you’re carrying means more work for your muscles and increased stress on your joints, which is why you may feel worse at the end of the day. Walking, standing, or sitting for long periods, as well as bending and lifting, can put a strain on your back.

A warm bath or hot compress might bring relief. (Some women, though, find cool compresses more comforting.) Try to maintain good posture during the day, avoid activities that require bending and twisting at the same time, take frequent breaks when sitting or standing, and sleep on your side with one or both knees bent with a pillow between your legs, using another pillow (or wedge) to support your belly.

BABY STATS:

How Far Along?

26 Weeks

How Big Is The Little One?

The baby is the size of a zucchini and the length of a scallion.

Total Weight Gain / Loss?

4 pounds gained since last month / I lost 27 pounds January through February.

Maternity Clothes?

I am now wearing mostly maternity pants and jeans.  I am having a hard time finding dresses that I actually like so I am going to start boutique shopping at plus size upscale stores to find some cute wrap dresses and maxi dresses.

Sleep?

My insomnia is out of control !  I am hoping that I will be able to get some sleep in the3rd trimester.  I am lucky that I can at least get a few hours of sleep during the day since I control my own schedule.

Best Moment of the Week?

My mom was again declared CANCER FREE !  Her pet scan showed a nodule on her thyroid and the they ordered a MRI.  A nodule was seen on the other side too !  A biopsy was then ordered and she went in on Wednesday for the biopsy and those nodules are just little goiters !  NO CANCER !!   We are all elated that cancer is behind us and great health is all we have in the future :-).

Another great moment this week was this long long sleep I was able to get last night !  I was MAD when I woke up at 5:30 am realizing I had to be up in 30 mins and in the shower to get ready to meet the driver at 7 am to head to Lenox Hill Hospital.

Seeing my baby move around and seeing that she is sideways as I suspected during the sonogram and hearing that all is well was an amazing, relieving feeling.

Symptoms?

I am experiencing bouts of queasiness and there is not a lot of room for food once I start eating.  I can feel that my placenta is still low, or that the baby seems low and heavy.  I still experience round ligament pain and have to brace for sneezing and coughing.

Food Cravings?

I still have no appetite.  I was craving plums, but now it seems to be watermelon.

Food Aversions?

Salty foods and sweet foods.

Gender?

Female

Labor Signs?

None

What I Miss?

Sleep and my clothes fitting the way I want.  I miss my pregnancy being incognito.  I have a definite pouch and bump and it can not be mistaken.  I was just be glad when it rounds out more and I look less “fat” and more like a preggo girl. I also miss waking up walking on the beach and seeing the sunrise over the horizon.

What I Am Looking Forward To?

Seeing my baby and holding her.  Hearing her cry and getting to know this little being I created.

Bump?

Whoa Big !


Navel In/Out?

In

Baby / Mommy Purchases?

I have not made any purchases this week.  The only purchases I will be making over the next few weeks will be related to my baby shower.

Twenty Five Weeks – The 411

By

How my baby’s growing

Head to heels, my baby now measures about 13 1/2 inches. Her weight – 1 1/2 pounds – isn’t much more than an average rutabaga, but she’s beginning to exchange her long, lean look for some baby fat. As she does, her wrinkled skin will begin to smooth out and she’ll start to look more and more like a newborn. She’s also growing more hair – and if you could see it, you’d be able to discern its color and texture. Also, her skin is finally gaining some color. Her hands are fully developed by this week, fingerprints and all! And at 25 weeks, the structure of the spine is beginning to form (33 rings, 150 joints, and 1000 ligaments)!

25 weeks: Your baby is about the size of a rutabaga

 

How mommy’s life’s changing

Your baby’s not the only one with more hair – your locks may look fuller and more lustrous than ever. It’s not that you’re growing more hair, but thanks to hormonal changes, the hair that you’d normally shed is sticking around longer than usual. Enjoy the fullness while you can – the extra hair will fall out after you give birth.

You may also notice that you can’t move around as gracefully as before. Unless your healthcare provider has advised you otherwise, it’s fine to continue to exercise, but follow a few safety rules: Don’t work out when you’re feeling overly tired and stop if you feel any pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath. Don’t lie flat on your back, and avoid contact sports as well as any exercise where you’re apt to lose your balance. Be sure to drink plenty of water, and make time for both warm-up and cool-down periods.

When you have your glucose-screening test at 24 to 28 weeks, a second tube of blood may be taken at the same time to check for anemia. If blood tests show that you have iron-deficiency anemia (the most common type of anemia), your healthcare provider will probably recommend that you take an iron supplement.

BABY STATS:

How Far Along?

25 weeks !

How Big Is The Little One?

My baby is the size of an rutabaga

Total Weight Gain / Loss?

I have gained 4 pounds total, 2 pounds since last weeks weigh in and I lost 27 pounds during the first trimester

Maternity Clothes?

My regular jeans are now a bit snug in the waist.  I am now wearing my exercise clothing around the house and maternity clothing otherwise

Sleep?

The insomnia seems to have slacked off a bit.  I am able to sleep for a few hours at a time.  The baby still moves around in the middle of the night, but I am getting used to it

Best Moment of the Week?

This week has been pretty uneventful.  The highlight of my week was attending the prescreening of Independence Day, The Resurgence.  It was a good movie, just not as good as the first.

Symptoms?

Other than heaviness at times in my pelvis, I have no experienced any new symptoms.

Food Cravings?

I have not had any food cravings.  My appetite is still nonexistent.  My doula has me eating oatmeal once a day and also I baked some awesome lactation oatmeal cookies that I have been nibbling on.  The apple cinnamon oatmeal and the cookies are very soothing to my tummy

Food Aversions?

I still can not tolerate salty foods nor overly sweet foods.

Gender?

Baby girl !

Labor Signs?

None

What I Miss?

My booty ! My butt has gotten wider and my middle is wider too.  I miss NOT having sore boobs.

What I Am Looking Forward To?

14 more weeks when my baby arrives.  I am also starting to get excited about my baby shower.

Bump?

I have a half a soccer ball now !


Navel In/Out?

In and I am noticing that after my showers, I have to dry my navel out with a q-tip now.

Baby / Mommy Purchases?

The only purchase I made this week was the Shea Moisture Baby Wash/Shampoo, Baby Lotion and Oil.  It smells divine !  The Burt’s Bees set I bought, I gave to my little nephew.  He seems to love it, but it doesn’t have enough of a scent for me.

Twenty Four Weeks !! – The 411

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How my baby’s growing

Your baby is growing steadily, having gained about 4 ounces since last week. That puts her at about 1 1/3 pounds. Since she’s almost a foot long (about the length of an ear of corn), she cuts a pretty lean figure at this point, but her body is filling out proportionally and she’ll soon start to plump up. Her brain is also growing quickly now, and her taste buds are continuing to develop. Her lungs are developing “branches” of the respiratory “tree” as well as cells that produce surfactant, a substance that will help her air sacs inflate once she hits the outside world. Her skin is still thin and translucent, but that will start to change soon.

How mommy’s life’s changing

In the past few weeks, the top of your uterus has risen above your belly button and is now about the size of a soccer ball. Most women have a glucose screening test (also called a glucose challenge test or GCT) between now and 28 weeks. This test checks for gestational diabetes, a pregnancy-related high-blood-sugar condition.

Untreated diabetes increases your risk of having a difficult vaginal delivery or needing a cesarean section because it causes your baby to grow too large, especially in his upper body. It also raises your baby’s odds for other complications like low blood sugar right after birth. A positive result on your GCT doesn’t mean you have gestational diabetes, but it does mean that you’ll need to take the glucose tolerance test (GTT) to find out for sure.

BABY STATS:

How Far Along?

24 weeks with 15 more to go !

How Big Is The Little One?

My baby is the size of an ear of corn

Total Weight Gain / Loss?

To date, I have only gained 2 pounds.  My weight is now staying stable and not swinging between 2-3 pounds.  I am stuck at a 2 pound gain.  I lost 27 pounds from January to February. I am happy that I have not blown up like Shamu !

Maternity Clothes?

I am still wearing my normal clothing, though my pants now have to go under my bump.

Sleep?

Because I had an allergy attack and have been taking a swig of children’s Benadryl, I have been getting more sleep.  I am amazed at how sleepy the children’s liquid version makes me. If my niece’s baby were not screeching in the middle of the night every 3-4 hours, I could actually get a full night of rest.  For some reason, they sleep in the family room above the basement, where I am staying while visiting and her baby wakes up randomly because he is not and has never been on any type of schedule.  #teenmoms

Best Moment of the Week?

This week has been rather uneventful.  My mom and I went up to the DC Waterfront and sat out and watched the boats go by and planes land at National Airport.  We are going to the movies tonight to see Central Intelligence with Kevin Hart and The Rock.  This weekend is Father’s Day but my father and grandfather are deceased so we no longer celebrate it.  Once my daughter is born, we will celebrate by honoring her godfathers. We have plans to attend worship service for the men’s day celebration and then we are going to the Slip Inn or Haines Point in DC to have a picnic on Sunday.

Well, I did have ONE good thing happen this week…. my donor has four frozen eggs banked at the clinic and I got them !  So October 2017, I will cycle again for baby #2 !

Symptoms?

I still have no symptoms other than round ligament pain, occasional constipation, and a heavy feeling in my pelvic floor.  It is hard to get comfortable at night.

Food Cravings?

I have no appetite.  The only foods I have been craving is fresh fruit.  I wanted plums but can not find any sweet ones.  I will hit up the farmer’s market tomorrow since local grocers fruit suck.  I have also been eating a 1/2 a watermelon a day, which is refreshing !

Food Aversions?

Salty and Sweet foods

Gender?

Baby Girl 🙂

Labor Signs?

None

What I Miss?

Being in the condo at the beach and waking up looking at the ocean.

What I Am Looking Forward To?

Taking long walks on the beach every morning at sunrise and again at sunset.  I look forward to the solitude and also taking my baby outside to chill on the beach.

Bump?

Oh Yeah !  I have 1/2 a soccer ball now !

Navel? In or Out?

In.  I have noticed that I have to dry my navel out with a q-tip now because it remains wet in there after I bathe and the towel is not cutting it. lol

Baby or Mommy Purchases?

This week, my maternity pjs arrived that I ordered from Zulily so I now have everything for my hospital bag.  I bought a Genie Bra, which is comfy but my boobs still hurt regardless.

I ordered the most adorable monkey wall clock for the nursery and it arrived today.  The only two items I have to order now is the bedding from Bratt Decor, which is in raw silk , the same colors as the fabric we chose for the bassinet I ordered from there and also the crib thru my friend at Restoration Hardware.

I have been buying things for the baby shower as well.  I only have a few more items to purchase.  I have to get the three fold napkins, silverware, dinnerware, cups, and the stainless steel beverage containers for sangria and the coffee and hot water for tea.

Twenty Three Weeks ! – The 411

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How my baby’s growing

Turn on the radio and sway to the music. With her sense of movement well developed by now, your baby can feel you dance. And now that she’s more than 11 inches long and weighs just over a pound (about the size of a large papaya), you may be able to see her squirm underneath your clothes. Blood vessels in her lungs are developing to prepare for breathing, and the sounds that your baby’s increasingly keen ears pick up are preparing her for entry into the outside world. Loud noises that become familiar now — such as your dog barking or the roar of the vacuum cleaner — probably won’t faze her when she hears them outside the womb.

How mommy’s life’s changing

You may notice that your ankles and feet start to swell a bit in the coming weeks or months, especially at the end of the day or during the heat of summer. Sluggish circulation in your legs — coupled with changes in your blood chemistry that may cause some water retention — may result in swelling, also known as edema. Your body will get rid of the extra fluid after you have your baby, which is why you’ll pee frequently and sweat a lot for a few days after delivery. In the meantime, lie on your left side or put your feet up when you can, stretch out your legs when you sit, and avoid sitting — or standing — in one place for long periods. Also, try to exercise regularly to increase circulation, and wear support stockings (put them on first thing in the morning) and roomy, comfortable shoes. You may be tempted to skimp on liquids to combat swelling, but you need to drink plenty of water because staying hydrated actually helps prevent fluid retention. While a certain amount of edema in your lower extremities is normal during pregnancy, excessive swelling may be a sign of a serious condition called preeclampsia.

BABY STATS:

How Far Along?

23 weeks

How Big Is The Little One?

My baby is now the size of a large papaya

Total Weight Gain / Loss?

I have gained 3 pounds total this entire pregnancy after a 27 pound loss during 1st trimester

Maternity Clothes?

I can still wear my regular clothing. I have started to wear a few pair of my maternity jeans, but they are too big.

Sleep?

What sleep?  I have insomnia.  I fall asleep around midnight and wake up at 2 am and am up until 5 am most nights.

Best Moment of the Week?

The best moment this week was at my repeat late anatomy scan.  I got to see that precious little face, hear the fast little heartbeat, and the doctor and sonographer were able to get what they needed finally !

Symptoms?

I am experiencing round ligament pain and also still suffering with sore breasts.

Food Cravings?

I still do not have much of an appetite.

Food Aversions?

Salty or super sweet foods.

Gender?

Baby Girl !

Labor Signs?

None

What I Miss?

Nothing at present except sleep

What I Am Looking Forward To?

Holding my child in my arms and looking into her face

Bump?

Last week, I finally got a little bit of a pop.   I officially have a bump !  I still do not look pregnant but I will take it!

Navel In/Out?

In

Baby / Mommy Purchases?

I ordered four nursing gowns from Zulily and Maternity Shape Wear to wear under body hugging dresses.

Twenty Two Weeks & Counting ! – The 411

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How my baby’s growing

At 11 inches and almost 1 pound (about the size of a spaghetti squash), your baby is starting to look like a miniature newborn. Her lips, eyelids, and eyebrows are becoming more distinct, and she’s even developing tiny tooth buds beneath her gums. Her eyes have formed, but her irises (the colored part of the eye) still lack pigment.

If you could see inside your womb, you’d be able to spot the fine hair (lanugo) that covers her body and the deep wrinkles on her skin, which she’ll sport until she adds a padding of fat to fill them in. Inside her belly, her pancreas — essential for the production of some important hormones — is developing steadily.

How your life’s changing

At this point, you may find your belly becoming a hand magnet. It’s perfectly okay to tell folks who touch your tummy that you’d rather they didn’t. And if people are telling you that you look smaller or bigger than you should at this point, remember that each woman grows — and shows — at her own rate.

What’s important is that you see your practitioner for regular visits to make sure your baby’s growth is on track. You may start to notice stretch marks on your abdomen as it expands to accommodate your growing baby.

At least half of pregnant women develop stretch marks by the time they give birth. These small streaks of differently textured skin can range from pink to dark brown (depending on your skin color). Although they most commonly appear on your tummy, stretch marks may also show up on your buttocks, thighs, hips, and breasts. There’s no proof that lotion helps prevent stretch marks, but moisturizing your skin will help with itching.

BABY STATS:

How Far Along?

22 weeks !

How Big Is The Little One?

My little angel is the size of a spaghetti squash and weights 14 oz this week per the doctor.

Total Weight Gain / Loss?

Still no weight gain.  I have lost 27 pounds since the beginning of this pregnancy and have held steady for the past two months.

Maternity Clothes?

My regular jeans and clothes still fit and are a bit baggy.  I have a pair of maternity leggings and a few pair of maternity pants that fit, but they slide down 😦  Once my belly is much bigger, they will fit.

Sleep?

I have insomnia, however the past two nights, I slept most of the night.  I think it was due to the traveling to NY and not getting much rest prior to the trip.

Best Moment of the Week?

The best moment of the week was finding my baby’s heartbeat on the fetal doppler monitor and then seeing her and hearing the heartbeat at my late anatomy scan.

Symptoms?

I have had a few bouts of nausea and have more of a gag reflex when brushing my teeth.

Food Cravings?

The only thing I have craved this week are plums.  I am going to Mom’s Organic tomorrow to get a bunch of organic plums.

Food Aversions?

Anything greasy, salty or overly sweet.

Gender?

Female

Labor Signs?

None !

What I Miss?

The occasional glass of wine.

What I Am Looking Forward To?

Meeting my daughter !

Bump?

On Tuesday night, my belly felt weird.  It felt like my organs were shifting around.  While walking around Manhattan on Wednesday, my belly felt like it popped.  I looked down and the baby was sticking out.  My belly has slightly popped ! Now I have a little bump.

Navel In/Out?

In

Baby / Mommy Purchases?

I ordered my breast pump this week.  I ordered the Medela Pump In Style.  They will ship it to me  at the end of this  trimester

Twenty One Weeks ! – The 411

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How My Baby’s Growing

The baby now weighs about three-quarters of a pound and is approximately 10 1/2 inches long — about the size of a carrot. I may soon feel like she’s practicing martial arts as her initial fluttering movements turn into full-fledged kicks and nudges. I may also discover a pattern to her activity as I get to know her better. In other developments, the baby’s eyebrows are present now, and if it is a girl, her vagina has begun to form as well.

How Mommy’s life’s changing

You’re probably feeling pretty comfortable these days. You’re not too big yet, and the usual discomforts associated with early pregnancy are, for the most part, gone. If you’re feeling good, relax and enjoy it while you can — the third trimester may bring with it a new crop of complaints.

That’s not to say you won’t have some minor glitches to deal with now. For example, increased oil production may contribute to the development (or worsening) of acne. If that’s the case, be diligent about washing well with a gentle soap or cleanser twice a day, and make sure that any moisturizer or make-up you use is oil-free. Don’t take any oral acne medications — some are very hazardous during pregnancy — or use any topical acne products without first checking with your practitioner.

You’re also more prone to varicose veins now. As your pregnancy progresses, there’s increasing pressure on the veins in your legs; higher progesterone levels, which may cause the walls of your veins to relax, can make the problem worse. You’re more likely to get varicose veins if other family members have them. Also, they tend to get worse with each successive pregnancy and as you age. To help prevent or minimize varicose veins, exercise daily, prop up your feet and legs whenever possible, sleep on your left side, and wear maternity support hose.

You may also notice so-called spider veins (a group of tiny blood vessels near the surface of your skin), particularly on your ankles, legs, or face. They may have a spider- or sunburst-like pattern with little branches radiating out from the center, they may look like the branches of a tree, or they may be a group of separate thin lines with no particular pattern. Though they may be a bit unsightly, spider veins don’t cause discomfort and usually disappear after delivery.

BABY STATS:

How Far Along?

21 weeks with 18 more to go !

How Big Is The Little One?

Baby girl is now the size of a carrot and she is 10 1/2 inches long.

Total Weight Gain / Loss?

I have lost a total of 27 pounds and am holding steady.  I fluctuate between 2 pounds.

Maternity Clothes?

I am STILL in my regular clothing 😦

Sleep?

Insomnia is a witch !

Best Moment of the Week?

The best thing that happened this week was honestly finding something to clear up the constipation.  I was MISERABLE !   I also figured out where I am sending my mother for her birthday this year.  I won’t post it here until later, in case she is reading my posts lol.

I also found an awesome florist in NYC to do the floral arrangements for my baby shower.  My sisters, bestie, and mom are gonna kill me, but hey… I have paid for 5 showers !

Symptoms?

For some reason, I have been gagging a lot this week and on the verge of vomiting.  I have had a few bouts of nausea.  The constipation is now under control, thanks to Coffee and Miralax in the mornings plus eating prunes.

Food Cravings?

I still do not have an appetite and the only thing I have craved this week was a nice flat burger, steamed on the stove under a mug, with beefsteak tomato, bacon, swiss and extra sharp cheddar and cajun fries.  So.. I made one the other day lol

Food Aversions?

Anything heavy, sweet or salty.  I used to LOVE Chick Fil A.  Now I can not stomach them.

Gender?

Baby girl !!

Labor Signs?

None

What I Miss?

Sleep and Moscato !

What I Am Looking Forward To?

Getting settled in NYC in a few weeks and walking along the Hudson waterfront in the mornings.

Bump?

A little one….
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Navel In/Out?

In

Baby / Mommy Purchases?

I bought another fetal doppler monitor since mine is buried in storage.  I also  bought my birthing gown with matching pillow case, more baby clothing and a organic cotton gown for baby.
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