Pregnant/New Mom Check-in for week of 25 September

[Taitai]

I figured I would give duskymonkey a break and start the weekly check-in thread for those of us who are still pregnant and the O17 moms with new babies

I am pregnant check-in:

How far along are you?

Any concerns? How are you feeling?

What kind of appointment?

How did it go?

Any feels/vents/etc?

Learn anything new?

Next appointment:


I am a new mom check-in:

How many weeks PP/How old is baby?

How are you feeling? Any concerns?

How is baby in general doing?

How is baby eating & sleeping?

BF or FF? How is that going?

Milestones? Both baby and mom.

[Rama]

How far along are you? 13,3

Any concerns? How are you feeling? No worries today, somehow. I'll take it.

What kind of appointment? I have an OB appointment today. What am I supposed to expect at these? I have no idea. The first one is kinda where the things happen, I don't know what else they check during the monthlies.

How did it go? I'll let you know! It's this afternoon.

Any feels/vents/etc? I've been kinda spread thin the past couple of days. My FIL lost his job a month or two ago (of 21 years) and had a new one set up with a "sister" company. They offered him the job about two to three weeks ago and he had already signed all the paperwork, but apparently last week they rescinded the offer. He's crushed. His money is drying up and he pretty clearly feels like he's a failure and disappointment to his kids (us and SIL). SIL spent all of Saturday with him, just so that he wouldn't be alone, and he spent yesterday with us for the same reason. We got him to eat some home cooked food, so I think that was a win.

I feel like this is somehow kinda greedy to feel, but I'm really sad that this is happening to him right as we're finally maybe actually having a kid (his first grandchild!). Not because we ever expected anything from him, but because I'm about 10000000% certain that even if he gets a job soon, he's not really going to be in a position to feel like he can help us financially by buying things for us, which would crush him. We don't need things from him, we just want him to be around and have a relationship with our kid. He's going to be an amazing grandpa, even if he can never buy our kid a toy. I just hope he learns that his attention is the best gift he could ever give.

Learn anything new? Still will update.

Next appointment: October 16th, probs. I don't expect an appointment before that.

[kinipela7]

How far along are you? 35 weeks

Any concerns? How are you feeling? Not good. I've been pregnant for the majority of the past 16 months and it's really taking a toll on my body as I near the end of this pregnancy. My daughter is being extra needy these days and it's so hard not to be able to pick her up all the time and run around with her like she wants me to. I did a few things around the house yesterday and feel like I ran a marathon. I'm feeling extra defeated today.

What kind of appointment? Thursday we have a NST.

How did it go? We shall seee

Any feels/vents/etc? I'm frustrated that no one is really telling me when to deliver (bc of the kidneys) The urologist said we could wait to term but he doesn't get the reports from my weekly ultrasounds to see that the kidneys are still growing and getting rather big IMO. The MFM asks every time if we have a plan for when to deliver. I don't understand why they cannot assess it themselves and give me a plan of action! It seems like no one really knows what to do and wish these docs would just talk to one another and figure it out! I'm going to bring it up at my next appt and see what they say.

****sorry I am extra complain-y today!!***

[kinipela7]

Rama - monthly OB appointments are usually pretty short. Pee in a cup, blood pressure, listen to heartbeat then out the door!

[codex320]

good luck at your appointment Rama! What kinipela7 said, they should be short and sweet! That sucks about your FIL. I hope he understands that "being there" is enough when there isn't a lot of money to throw around. I hope that came out right.

kinipela7, I would ask them when you should deliver! It shouldn't be the other way around!!

I have an appointment on Wednesday. Will update then!

[bootsorhearts1]

kinipela7, that is frustrating! I was never told I would need to deliver early with DS because of his kidney issues, just that they'd check it again after birth via ultrasound and maybe do an MRI and assess whether it's something that would need surgery or would likely clear up on its own. And if it does need surgery try not to worry too much, it's usually a blockage of some kind and it's pretty easy to fix. I mean, any surgery is not fun but it's not super invasive or risky or anything. Hopefully your doctors can get on the same page though!

[cythe]

That is so frustrating kinipela7, I'm sorry. Separate offices should be able to communicate with each other.

Rama Minus the cool big stuff (ultrasounds usually) most OB appointments are really lame. Like, why did I drive all this way kind of lame.

Pee in a cup, talk about questions you have, belly measurement and a quick go round on the fetal doppler.

[duskymonkey]

Thanks! Taitai, I've had a busy packed morning with DS' school day + routine appt. + pre-op appt.

How far along are you?
38+1. I made it...just another week. Stay in bubs!

Any concerns? How are you feeling?
None other than feeling like bubs is about to fall out any second along with my whole bottom. A week ago I was 3cm dilated and 80% effaced....not sure if I've progressed but hoping not. Just need to make it another week! With DS I was closed up like a nuclear bunker even at 41 wks! Go figure!

What kind of appointment?
Routine OB, Pre-Op, U/S, NST. Looonggg appt.

How did it go?
Bub is doing great! No amniotic fluid leaks and level is great. Having small contractions which I am unable to feel but it's not consistent enough. Both my OB and I are hoping we make it another week - it will be just easier for everyone involved.

Any feels/vents/etc?
I am still super angry about what happened last week. The fact that the dimwit tool got away without getting ticketed! 

Learn anything new?
Well...not today but not sure if I mentioned last week but I didn't know that even a minor accident and jolt could cause placental abruption so was glad I went to the hospital. Although I am not sure if what we had was at all minor...hubs was going at a good speed. If he didn't accelerate upon seeing the dumbwit barreling at us in the rear view mirror, the impact would have been much greater so we're thankful for his quick reflexes.

Next appointment:
Next Monday for baby day! Stay cosy inside until then bubs!

[duskymonkey]

Rama, I am so sorry about your FIL's job loss... it just mind troubling and nothing to do with job performance and after 21 yrs....it's a hard pill to swallow and it's become a trend these days. Job security of yester years are no longer what they are. Maybe try to include him in helping out when baby arrives or even before? Also gently letting him know that having him spend time with baby is the most important thing to you and is really priceless. My ILs aren't wealthy by any means. I know many people roll their eyes over used toys but my ILs have gotten christmas and bday presents from thrift stores and I really don't mind at all...to me it's the thought that counts and I know they don't have much and I am grateful that they go out of their way and take the time to go through to find stuff for DS...honestly DS doesn't know any better and what does it matter anyways. I myself often peruse the kids resale and have gotten some neat used toys which I've wrapped up for Xmas and stocking stuffers! I like to think used toys have given so much pleasure and fun times to another child and it's time to pass the fun on to the next child.

[britt]

I always forget to check in here!

I am pregnant check-in:

How far along are you?
39w1d

Any concerns? How are you feeling?
Tired. Over it. Started retaining lots of water the last few days, so carrying around even more extra weight sucks!!

What kind of appointment?
OB appointment on Friday, Its my last one before my EDD on Sunday! They will check to see if I've dilated at all

How did it go?
I'd like to avoid an induction unless medically necessary so hopefully they don't have a problem with me going past my EDD if I have to until this baby is ready to come

Any feels/vents/etc?
I guess I kind of answered that above

[parma986]

I am pregnant check-in:

How far along are you? 36+5

Any concerns? How are you feeling? Can't complain too much- pelvic aches and reflux are the worst along with really tired legs.

What kind of appointment? Well, it was supposed to be an US to check position and an OB appointment with GBS...see the next question...

How did it go? ...It turned into 4 hours (4!!) at the OB office. 30 minutes after my scheduled appointment, US tech called me back. US showed baby as breech, her head is jammed under my right ribcage. My fluid level is also very high when it was normal 3 weeks ago. After waiting in a room for 30 minutes- OB said with the position of the baby and the fluid, the success rate of a version would be very low. Everything sounds good though. Because of my elevated fluid, OB wants me to start twice weekly NSTs and one weekly US, requests I stay for NST. After 40 minutes on NST, she is not reactive (because she is usually sleeping at that time) and I am having contractions on the monitor. Now I need a SECOND US due to the failed NST. After waiting in the waiting room for 40 minutes finally get called back again by US tech who tells me baby is fine. Like she was 4 hours prior. I burst out crying in the US room- I was not expecting a 4 hour appointment, and it was very overwhelming to have to deal with all the testing and being told that I will most likely require a C-section.

Any feels/vents/etc? I'm overwhelmed and frustrated. I was not expecting this all to pop up at almost 37 weeks and I was SO hopeful that she would turn to head down I cried in the office.

Learn anything new? See above. She has until next week to turn and if she does not, we will schedule a C-section.

Next appointment: NST only Friday, unless of course she is non-reactive in which case I get an US too.

[Taitai]

parma986 So sorry to hear about your difficult appointment. I am keeping my fingers crossed that maybe all that fluid will give baby some extra room to flip and get head down. 🤞🤞

ETA: At my last appointment, my MFM said my fluid levels were also a bit high, which meant the baby might be able to wiggle around and turn himself breech again. So I guess if there is a lot of fluid, these things can happen and baby can change position super late.

[bootsorhearts1]

parma986, sorry for the long appointment. My DS routinely failed NSTs, it was super annoying. I have found with this little girl that ice water gets her dancing, maybe try that next time!

[rm2013]

parma986 - hugs that is a lot to deal with! Hoping baby turns!!

Rama - Sorry about your FIL, hope he finds something else!

duskymonkey - hope everything keeps holding steady!

[rebeccabunch]

parma986 I'm sorry about the breech development. I know you were hoping for a VBAC. You got through the first C and you will get through this one too if the baby doesn't do a last minute flip. I always hear the subsequent C is much easier.

[August Blooms]

kinipela7 That sounds super frustrating. Hopefully they can get it sorted out asap.

duskymonkey 🤞For another week, you've made it so far already.

parma986 Sorry about your bad appointment, no advice but hopefully the baby will flip.

[doodlemommy]

I am pregnant check-in:

How far along are you? 38+2

Any concerns? How are you feeling? Feeling good other than feeling like baby is trying to head butt his/her way out. Lots of Braxton hicks too. Tomorrow DD and I have dentist appointments but that is the last pre-baby thing I want/need to get done so anytime after that baby can feel free to make an appearance

What kind of appointment? Midwife appointment on Thursday afternoon a 38+5

How did it go? I'll update Thursday

Any feels/vents/etc?

Learn anything new?

Next appointment: Weekly Thursday appointments!

[blackmamba]

parma986 that sounds awful. Thinking of you and hoping baby flips.

[chitownsully]

Oh parma986. I'm sorry you had such a stressful appointment. Crossing everything that baby flips for you. And if not, at least you'll have a path forward. Lots of love to you.

[Rama]

Sept 25, 2017 11:37:05 GMT -6 Rama said:

How far along are you? 13,3

Any concerns? How are you feeling? No worries today, somehow. I'll take it.

What kind of appointment? I have an OB appointment today. What am I supposed to expect at these? I have no idea. The first one is kinda where the things happen, I don't know what else they check during the monthlies.

How did it go? I'll let you know! It's this afternoon.

Any feels/vents/etc? I've been kinda spread thin the past couple of days. My FIL lost his job a month or two ago (of 21 years) and had a new one set up with a "sister" company. They offered him the job about two to three weeks ago and he had already signed all the paperwork, but apparently last week they rescinded the offer. He's crushed. His money is drying up and he pretty clearly feels like he's a failure and disappointment to his kids (us and SIL). SIL spent all of Saturday with him, just so that he wouldn't be alone, and he spent yesterday with us for the same reason. We got him to eat some home cooked food, so I think that was a win.

I feel like this is somehow kinda greedy to feel, but I'm really sad that this is happening to him right as we're finally maybe actually having a kid (his first grandchild!). Not because we ever expected anything from him, but because I'm about 10000000% certain that even if he gets a job soon, he's not really going to be in a position to feel like he can help us financially by buying things for us, which would crush him. We don't need things from him, we just want him to be around and have a relationship with our kid. He's going to be an amazing grandpa, even if he can never buy our kid a toy. I just hope he learns that his attention is the best gift he could ever give.

Learn anything new? Still will update.

Next appointment: October 16th, probs. I don't expect an appointment before that.

How did it go? Good!  We actually didn't even try the doppler, it never came up.  She just walked in wheeling an ultrasound machine!  Babe is doing great, 150bpm, wiggles when we keep the wand on too long.  Didn't really do any measurements other than FHR.  My BP was high again, so I got put on labetalol probably for the rest of pregnancy.  Other than being another pill to take, the only real annoying thing about starting that this morning is the crazy wicked nipple burning and the tingly/itchy scalp.  It's also supposed to make me lightheaded and dizzy, which is AWESOME when you're already a klutz.  Ah well.  I'll do what I need to do for my kid, right?

Learn anything new? Not particularly.  I did the imagine serene places/slow moving water trick to lower my BP for the second read and the hilarious thing was that it made my diastolic number decrease as expected (by nearly 20 points!) and my systolic number increase (by about 5-6 points).  Very unusual to go in different directions, but my HBP has always made me anxious, so when I have to keep redoing it, it just makes it worse.  Luckily, this MA was so much better than my nurse during my ER follow up last week.  Both she and the doctor stressed me out so much, my BP refused to go down.  Doc had also told me to not do anything that would put me out of breath, so I'd stopped doing my daily walks, which I'm sure is a large reason why my BP was so high to begin with yesterday.  Part of me is worried that if I start my walks back up again, my BP is going to get low with the meds, but that's something for them to figure out later, I guess.  Lower is better than high, right?

Next appointment: October 2 with the nurse, just to double check how my BP is doing.  Then Oct 16th as before.

[August Blooms]

I am pregnant check-in:

How far along are you? 36+2

Any concerns? How are you feeling? Minor concerns about the baby's growth, more with having to be induced instead of going into labor on my own. I'm feeling pretty good.

What kind of appointment? Growth ultrasound.

How did it go? Good? I will have to wait for my midwives to call. If there's no issue I won't hear from them. They didn't send me to the hospital right away, which means everything looks good.

Any feels/vents/etc? I've had this ultrasound tech before, she's quick and professional but I'd wish she'd divulge a little more info.

Learn anything new? No

Next appointment: Midwife on Monday for my 37 weeks checkup.

[mommabakes]

I am pregnant check-in:

How far along are you? 38+2

Any concerns? How are you feeling? Baby hasn't been nearly as active the past 2 days. Otherwise feeling okay.

What kind of appointment? Regular midwife check up

How did it go? Great! Baby is doing awesome, I didn't have my regular midwife, but she was very reassuring and listened to all of my concerns.

Any feels/vents/etc? Happiest with my appointment

Learn anything new? Baby has started dropping down! Last week I was told he was really high, so I am happy with this development. Cervical checks start next week.

Next appointment: next Tuesday

[CoachTsWife]

I am pregnant check-in:

How far along are you? 39+2, or 40+1 according to OB

Any concerns? How are you feeling? I was worried about being pushed to induce. Physically I feel pretty good.

What kind of appointment? Regular OB + U/S

How did it go? Baby looks good, measuring 9 lbs which I take with a grain of salt, but you always wonder about it in the back of your mind. Fluid looks great. Dilated to 5, 70-80% effaced, Station -2. Basically primed and ready to go. But not having contractions. My dr did not push to schedule me for tomorrow but told us just to go to the hospital in the morning regardless of if I'm having contractions. She's on call and will come break my water. This is all just a big ole repeat of DS1's birth. I had her strip my membranes in hopes that it'll kick things into gear. I talked to my doula and she recommended a few things to help and we're supposed to touch base later this evening.

Any feels/vents/etc? Trying to decide what to do, form plans for all scenarios, etc.

Next appointment: LOLOL

[mkrupar]

I am a new mom check-in:

How many weeks PP/How old is baby? 2 weeks 3 days

How are you feeling? Any concerns? I'm sore again. I rolled over/twisted/got up too fast MOTN and pulled a muscle in my lower abdomen. I was concerned I had pulled a stitch, so we went to the OB this morning. She checked my incision and all my organs are still in place, so no pulled stitch. I was just at the point where I had little to no pain all day, and I had to go and be dumb and not pay attention to getting up properly last night.


How is baby in general doing? Baby is doing great. Keeping any eye on the blocked tear duct. Seems to be better.

How is baby eating & sleeping? Eating and sleeping well. He's 6lbs 12oz now, so up over a lb from birth.

BF or FF? How is that going? FF. He's up over 2 oz a bottle now, so he's gaining well.

Milestones? Both baby and mom. His umbilical cord fell off yesterday. I should be clear for driving, but with the pulled miscle, I don't know how that is going to work. May just wait a few more days.

[cougarette]

mommabakes I'm 38+1 and have also noticed he doesn't seem as active the last few days. Must be running out of room.

[rachydc]

I am pregnant check-in:

How far along are you?
37+2
Any concerns? How are you feeling?
Still so over being pregnant. EVERYTHING IS SWOLLEN and hurting
What kind of appointment?
Regular weekly check up
How did it go?
Fine. 
Any feels/vents/etc?
Held off on a cervical check until 38 weeks. I didnt want to be disappointed if nothing was happening down there.
Learn anything new?
Well, not too new. Looks like baby is head down but posterior like DD (back against my back). Which means probably back labor again. Fun stuff.
Next appointment:
Monday the 2nd

[Taitai]

I am pregnant check-in:

How far along are you? 36 + 5

Any concerns? How are you feeling? Feeling huge and uncomfortable, and the SPD pain in my hips is getting worse.

Proofing some details.

What kind of appointment? MFM appointment and then had to see pulmonologist for the TB stuff.

How did it go? Everything went as well as it could for me...I am negative for GBS, baby is head down, still no more cord around his neck, and my TB x-ray came back negative. I am just now have to hope my blood test for TB comes back negative.

Any feels/vents/etc? See above.

Learn anything new? I now know a ton about TB and the difficulties of TB testing - so there's that.

Next appointment: Next week Weds.

[chitownsully]

Taitai I am so sorry you're dealing with that. That employee is an asshole! Crossing everything that the tests come back negative.

[codex320]

Taitai, that's awful! I would be super mad about that. I really hope everything comes back clear!

[mommabakes]

Taitai omg I'd be livid. FX that you are all negative and your DS feels better soon.