October Chit Chat!

[DoulaMama]

YAY! So Princess, you'll know in 4 weeks...and I will too!!! Yippee!!! The u/s place I have here will only do scans for gender past 20w, so I'm going to lie(:shemademe:)and book it for 19w LOL! They don't need to know:) I should know by the very end of November. I'm doing the same thing about the excitement. I keep dreaming about my girl and then giving myself a pinch to wake myself up...I will be pretty crushed if this is a boy in 4 weeks time:( Oh well....c'est la vie. You'll have to tell me when your appt is booked for! So excited for you, Mama!!! xoxo

[DoulaMama]

UGH....The m/s is gone(left about 2 weeks ago) and slowly the hunger is returning...AHHH!!! I made cherry tarts tonight and ate 6!!!!

6 tarts!!!! OMG....I don't even want to step on the scale for weigh day tomorrow:( Does it make it any better if I just had a salad for dinner??? :rofl:

[ELP]

UGH....The m/s is gone(left about 2 weeks ago) and slowly the hunger is returning...AHHH!!! I made cherry tarts tonight and ate 6!!!!

6 tarts!!!! OMG....I don't even want to step on the scale for weigh day tomorrow:( Does it make it any better if I just had a salad for dinner??? :rofl:Shaaaaaare!!!!! I'm flippin starving again now reading that:rofl: I don't bake myself but me eldest (12) is always at it!!!! She gets bored and starts cooking cheesecakes, sponge cakes, big butter cream stuffed muffins:rofl: She's wonderful, but not for the waist line:bigsmile:

I'm half way!!!!!!!!!

[Mochagirl]

DM - I can't stop eating either. I never got the m/s, which means I've been eating like a pig since day 1. Yesterday I got Arby's for lunch and had a large sandwich, fries AND deep fried mozzarella sticks :oops:.

[zanacal]

Add me to the 'can't stop eating' list. Some of it is to keep nausea at bay, some of it is just me being a big pig!

Congrats on 20 weeks ELP!

Who's got a bump photo to share yet?!

[DoulaMama]

So happy that I'm not alone in my eating! :)
Not pregnancy related but had to vent...
My kids are late risers but for the past 3 days they've been waking WAY too early for some strange reason. This morning I found my 5yo camped out in front of the tv at 6am! He doesn't wake until 8am! He then screamed bloody murder when we turned the tv off and put him back in his room, which woke ALL of us up. To top it off my kids then mucked around by the computer and broke the modem. And they haven't stopped fighting all morning. Kill me now:( Other than playgrounds(it's too freaking cold here already) what do you guys do with your kids for energy burning??? I need to tie them to a treadmill or something!!!

[DoulaMama]

Yay for 20 weeks ELP!!! Woohoo! 5 weeks behind you!!!! Makes me excited!

I do have a bump already but it's an "I was already overweight and had a belly" kind of bump:rofl:
Maybe I'll post some pics if you promise not to laugh... Or cringe... ;)

[ELP]

DM, I cannot imagine how cold Canada gets!!! We have ours home for the 1/2 term break this week and we've had rain all week, mine have been crazy too!! They stand there and say 'I'M BORED!!!' whilst surrounded by flippin mess!! Luckily today we had sun, so they got thrown straight out to the park at the front of the house thank goodness lol. But a tread mill isn't actually a bad idea, they would think it was great fun wouldn't they and not realise that we was secretly wearing them out, cunning!!!!

[zanacal]

I won't do either DM, promise! I took my biggest 2 boys out this morning and now I'm exhausted - I just had a big nap on the sofa and it's made me feel even more tired, so we won't be going anywhere this afternoon! It's lovely and sunny out though, so I think I'll sit in the garden while they play. We have a big ugly trampoline (I swore I'd never get one!) so when they start jumping up and down on the sofa I can tell them to go and jump on the trampoline instead!

My scan date still hasn't come in the post, so annoying, I just want to know when it is so I can count down (and arrange childcare and/or time off work!).

[ELP]

And thanks ladies! I can't believe I'm 1/2 way! Still flab over baby belly though so any pics will still have to wait:oops:

[purplepoet20]

So happy that I'm not alone in my eating! :)
Not pregnancy related but had to vent...
My kids are late risers but for the past 3 days they've been waking WAY too early for some strange reason. This morning I found my 5yo camped out in front of the tv at 6am! He doesn't wake until 8am! He then screamed bloody murder when we turned the tv off and put him back in his room, which woke ALL of us up. To top it off my kids then mucked around by the computer and broke the modem. And they haven't stopped fighting all morning. Kill me now:( Other than playgrounds(it's too freaking cold here already) what do you guys do with your kids for energy burning??? I need to tie them to a treadmill or something!!!

Our house is layed out so the boys can run circles kitchen-landr room-bathroom-bedroom-livingroom-kicthen etc... It is a life saver. We also have the garage set up for riding bikes and kickking a ball. It's cold here to 28f early this morning and a high of 58.

[ELP]

They're leaving that scan date a bit late Z! Maybe give the hospital a ring and see what they've got on books for you, they may be able to tell you when its booked for:agree:

[zanacal]

It's only a week since my booking in appointment ELP, so I think I'll give them a call if I don't hear anything by the middle of next week. Where I used to live they made your appointment on the phone while you were there - so much better!

Lucky you having a house big enough to run anywhere PP!

[purplepoet20]

It's only a week since my booking in appointment ELP, so I think I'll give them a call if I don't hear anything by the middle of next week. Where I used to live they made your appointment on the phone while you were there - so much better!

Lucky you having a house big enough to run anywhere PP!

Really not that big... we just have a lot of doors and open concept type home.

[DoulaMama]

PP- we have the same circle type, open concept here that they run around as well but I think they need to burn even more energy. It's 930am and -4C(just under 30F) here right now and the kids will go ride their bikes but it lasts for 10mins:( ugh. I hate Winter. I'm getting a trampoline Z! You totally sold me. I've been thinking about it for awhile now and I think we'll do a combo gift next year for bdays:)

I'll post a pic once my modem is fixed:)

[DoulaMama]

Z- I cannot wait to hear when you'll have your scan!!!! So excited for you!!!

[Mochagirl]

I was thinking of posting a belly shot to see if you guys think I'm showing or if it's just bloating. It's just that I'm so huge all the time now and I'm already starting to feel out of breath when I go up or down stairs! I'm sure it's all in my head, but I feel like I've shown earlier every pregnancy.

[zanacal]

I'm ok during the day mocha (I think - though I've obviously piled on the pounds these past few weeks and suddenly everyone has stopped commenting on my weight loss!) but at night I'm massive. I might take a photo myself to show you!

[zanacal]

Z- I cannot wait to hear when you'll have your scan!!!! So excited for you!!!

I'm excited too and also just want to know that everything is ok with my bubba but I'm also nervous and wish I'd never heard of a damn nub because I think I'd be happier if I didn't have a clue but I know I'm going to be looking for one!

[Mochagirl]

Z - I'm definitely bigger in the evening, but there IS definitely a bump there in the morning too. I've gained about 12 pounds now :oops:, and I swear it's all in my belly - I can still fit into my size 25 jeans!

[Mochagirl]

I forgot to mention I just bought my first baby thing this morning - 3 new cloth diapers! They were on one of those baby bargain email sites for only $6.95 each, and I couldn't resist since they were a style I prefer (snapping pocket diapers), though not a brand I'm familiar with. I bought one in lime green, one in red and one in purple, figuring they could work for a girl or boy. It was exciting to buy a baby thing!

[DoulaMama]

Z- totally hear you about the nub thing! I had zero clue about it with my last 3 and I'm thankful for that! I'm now a nub obsessor!!! LOL!
M- my belly is huge in the pm as well:) oh and so
awesome about the baby purchase!! I am drooling over a new carrier and some really cute fabric right now....sigh. Whatever you do...don't look at the baby stuff on Etsy...OMG....all handmade, beautiful items:) I can spend all day on there! :oops:

[purplepoet20]

I forgot to mention I just bought my first baby thing this morning - 3 new cloth diapers! They were on one of those baby bargain email sites for only $6.95 each, and I couldn't resist since they were a style I prefer (snapping pocket diapers), though not a brand I'm familiar with. I bought one in lime green, one in red and one in purple, figuring they could work for a girl or boy. It was exciting to buy a baby thing!

What brand?

[purplepoet20]

I love going to the thirft stores when a certain color tag is .99....... Once I found 2 Organic Merino Wool calf length jackets (mens XXL) for $1 each. I haven't made anything with them yet. But I am thinking some longies (diaper covers with legs)and some family winter hats. I also grab all the saweaters I can find to make night time longies, one size fits 3mth-4yo for us.

[Mochagirl]

Lotus Bumz - I've never heard of them, but in my time using cloth diapers I've learned that the ones that last the longest are the snapping pockets - all my others are tattered and worn out (fitteds, AIOs, and ESPECIALLY anything with Velcro), but my Fuzzibunz, Baby Kangas and Knickernappies look brand new despite over 2 years of heavy use (and about 3 washings a week).

[purplepoet20]

I love snaps but of course I could buy wornout velcro ones and just put snaps on myself... a lot of the moms where I live bring their 1yo diapers to me for snaps because the velcro is worn out already. Also easy to change out blue snaps for purple or pink.

I like the way the pockets fit babies. We tried Haute pockets that we got new but on sale, I loved them but DS1 still got rashes. Both boys have very sweaty bodies with some fabrics and wool is the only thing that worked. DS2 loves wool and he rips off his diaper if we do anything but wool.

[purplepoet20]

Haven't seen Flava in the last few hours... I hope she is resting.

[Mochagirl]

We have some wool, but I never really took to it. I think it might have been too itchy on ds's skin - dh is allergic to wool, so maybe he is too.

[purplepoet20]

We have some wool, but I never really took to it. I think it might have been too itchy on ds's skin - dh is allergic to wool, so maybe he is too.

What kind? You can sell them for a good price.

[Mochagirl]

I have one Aristocrats, but I had to throw it out. I stored it for about half a year after it had been worn once and not washed (it ended up at the bottom of a pile of clean diapers and I just forgot about it) and when I went to take it out recently saw that it was full of holes - it had been eaten by some sort of bugs!

I also have a side-snapping felted wool cover - I forget the brand, but it's only one layer and never really worked well.

[princesssarah34]

DM...my appt. is set for Nov.26th at 11:30am! :holysheep: When is yours??
I am getting excited and a bit scared too! I mean I will be happy either way but I have had a weird feeling that maybe this baby is not a boy....but then I have to pinch myself too and say "hello boy" just to keep from getting my hope's up to high and have them come crashing back down when I hear "boy"! ykwim
I am fully prepared for a boy and can handle all the boy stuff....I have lots of experiance in boy's!!! My hubby says "we know what we are doing with boy's......what if we screw up having a girl around!!" :rofl: Mainly it is his way of preparing for a boy! :wink:

[DoulaMama]

P- I'm going to book it for the 23rd:) my close friend said shed look after my kiddos while I go in. I'm excited!!!

[zanacal]

It's going to be an exciting few days around here with all that scan news :D

[princesssarah34]

I am not sure what to think this morning.......I got up to go to the bathroom and when I wiped there was spotting. Not heavy or a lot just a spot only when I wiped. I don't think I am crapping any....just feel really gassy. I don't know what to think. I did the same thing when pg with Evan only at like 7 weeks. I never spotted with any of my other pg's......I am very scared right now and a little sad.

[Mochagirl]

I'm sorry, princess. Could you call your doctor to get another scan to put your mind at ease?

[DoulaMama]

Did you dtd lately? Or maybe had a long day yesterday? Also, you're right around the time that you'd get a period if you weren't pregnant...so it might just be that. If you have no cramping and the spotting goes away, I would try not to worry:) My most recent client lost 1/2 cup of blood at 17 w and she was sure that she was miscarrying. He's 2 months old:) lots of hugs, Princess:HH: This must be incredibly stressful for you:(

[princesssarah34]

Mocha...not sure since it is Saturday...I am suppose to see him Mon. for a reg. check up.
DM...no dtd for a few days....I did have a super long day yesterday. I am just super freaked...you know! I am pretty sure I am not crapping..(not sure what it would feel like any way)...my lower back does ache a little but I was bending a lot yesterday.

[DoulaMama]

It would be like menstrual cramps in combo with backache, most times. Could you head into a walk in clinic and get them to find a heart beat? I will be thinking +++ thoughts for you Princess. Most likely everything is fine, Hun xoxo

[zanacal]

I'm sorry princess, I'm sure everything will be fine as you've seen that bubba healthy and well so recently but I completely understand how scared you are. If you can't get hold of anybody sooner, make sure you have a more relaxing day tomorrow and phone your doctor first thing on Monday. I'm thinking of you x

[princesssarah34]

Called my doc and of course another doc was on call for him....really wished it was my doc as I know he would have said come in and let see what is going on. But he said that since we just saw the baby a few days ago and thing were fine..that it is prob. nothing. And to see my doc on monday. I have a Monday appt with my doc anyway so I will just have to wait until then.
Today has been a hell of a day to say the least. I feel really numb right now.....just laying low for now.

[Inglewood]

Hi all, not been on for a few days, went back to work (nightshift) was tough! And ds2 was 5!

Princess, hope ur ok, must be a worry. I hope ur doc can ease ur mind on monday, u should def call tho, worth getting checked out for ur peace of mind. x

Hope everyone else is ok? Lots of scans due. My next one is the 15th nov, will be 15w5d, think they will guess the gender? Or too early???

[zanacal]

I had some bleeding overnight. I went to the loo at 4am and saw it on the tissue even in the dark. I'm very scared so just staying in bed until it doesn't seem too early to phone the midwife. I don't know that they'd scan me on a Sunday anyhow.

[ELP]

Oh no princess and Z:( It is definately most probably some sort of irritation blled or left over sack of something which happens. Have as restful a day as you can today ok. Z, do you have a local early pregnancy unit? Can you ring them? They got me in pretty straight away when I had a bleed:agree: princess I dont know what the protocol for the US would be, can you just turn up at the emergency room and just say its worse than it actually is, just to put your mind at rest.

[Princess of Pink]

I had bleeding with my last daughter in the middle of the night and she is a healthy 5yr old now!! It doesn't always mean the worst, hang in there!!

[zanacal]

I spoke to the on call midwife and as suspected she can't get me in for a scan on a Sunday but will call first thing tom and hopefully get me in tomorrow or Tuesday and I'm to go to A and E if I bleed heavily. So scared and no idea what I'll say to work to be able to get to this scan. I guess I'll have to phone in sick.

[zanacal]

Thanks PofP and ELP. I don't have any cramping but my tummy feels weird, sort of tender (or light headed but in my tummy!)and I'm getting sharp pains low down on the right hand side every now and again. I don't feel good about this.

[Mochagirl]

Oh Z - I'm sooo sorry about the scare you're having! Hopefully they'll get you in first thing Monday and you will see a healthy little bean in there. I say call in sick regardless of when your scan is - you'll be too distracted to work anyway. Try to rest today. :HH:

[Inglewood]

Z, just saw ur post. Hope ur taking it easy and don't worry about work, call in sick and go to get ur scan for peace of mind. Mocha is so right, regardless of the scan, take it easy for a while. x

[princesssarah34]

Z....I am right there with ya! Still no crapping for me...but have had a almost like needle pricks almost like when I ovulate! I laid low all day yesterday and the spotting had stopped last night before bed......it was so light all day and only there when I wiped....and this morning had to get up at 4am and was fine until about 5am and there was a little spotting again only when I wiped...so far this morning at 10am there is nothing again. I really hope it was just something else and the baby is ok.

[Mochagirl]

princess and Z - my thoughts and prayers are with you as you get through this stressful weekend. I'm sure you'll both get some good news tomorrow :HH:

[purplepoet20]

Ok so not trying to say anything to anyone or change anyones mind.... I had a dream that I was going on the 2ww and saw that Flava got a bfp and I got a bfn. I thought it would be today but no luck. I wonder if it will come true.

[zanacal]

Just checking in to see how you are princesssarah - I don't know what the time difference is or what time you're seeing your doctor but I hope to find good news later. I really hope everything is ok.

I posted on my other thread but I didn't have any more bleeding and I feel much better today and I have a scan booked for 11.45 tomorrow. I'm feeling quite positive that everything will be ok but obviously won't know for sure until tomorrow. My 12 week scan date came in the post today for 16th November - I really hope I need it!

[Mochagirl]

Z - so glad you're feeling better. I'm sure everything's fine. Your sister bled a lot and she still has a healthy bub in there, right? I'll be anxiously awaiting the results of your scan tomorrow and am sending you (and princess) HEALTHY bean vibes.

[Inglewood]

Hope Z and princess are well today? been in my thoughts. x

[princesssarah34]

Morning everyone.......My appt. is for today at 2pm. So I will know what is going on. I am still having a bit of spotting but like hours apart and it is just a stain (i guess is what i'd call it) mixed with ewcm. No crapping in my pelvis but I have been having a low dull ache in my lower back off and on all weekend.......which from what I read (I know I shouldn't do that but can't help it) that could be a sign of miscarriage too.....Hopefully my Dr. will have some answers or reasurance for me today!

[zanacal]

Oh Sarah, I'm so thinking of you. What time is it there now?

[purplepoet20]

Morning everyone.......My appt. is for today at 2pm. So I will know what is going on. I am still having a bit of spotting but like hours apart and it is just a stain (i guess is what i'd call it) mixed with ewcm. No crapping in my pelvis but I have been having a low dull ache in my lower back off and on all weekend.......which from what I read (I know I shouldn't do that but can't help it) that could be a sign of miscarriage too.....Hopefully my Dr. will have some answers or reasurance for me today!

I hope everything is ok. Let us know we are all wishing the best for you.

[Mochagirl]

princess - I'll be thinking of you later today. :HH:

[princesssarah34]

Thanks everyone!
Z.....I am glad yours stopped.
It is 10:30 am here.......we will leave around 1pm and it take about a hour to get over to my dr's.

[zanacal]

We're 7 hours ahead but I'll log on first thing tomorrow to see how you are. {hugs}

[Inglewood]

Princess, will log on first thing too, thinking of u. x

[DoulaMama]

Thinking of both of you~

Princess- I'm an hour ahead of you...I'll be watching for your update. Positive thoughts to you, Hun. xoxo :HH:
Z- Keeping you in my thoughts for tomorrow~ xoxoxo

[princesssarah34]

All you ladies are just the best!!
Well there is still a baby in there!! Heard the heartbeat.....very faintly and strong....but dr said this baby is sitting very low in the pelvis!
My spotting has stopped and of course stopped by the time I saw him...so he can not figure out what the cause was if any. But he said to take it easy for a few weeks..not heavy lifting and if it starts again lay down and rest. Oh and no dtding for a month...(sorry hunny :oops:). Other than that we will just have to see how things go.

[Out of the Blue]

All you ladies are just the best!!
Well there is still a baby in there!! Heard the heartbeat.....very faintly and strong....but dr said this baby is sitting very low in the pelvis!
My spotting has stopped and of course stopped by the time I saw him...so he can not figure out what the cause was if any. But he said to take it easy for a few weeks..not heavy lifting and if it starts again lay down and rest. Oh and no dtding for a month...(sorry hunny :oops:). Other than that we will just have to see how things go.

YAYAYAYAYAY!!!! Grow, baby, grow! When ever I'm preg, my babies always sit realllllly low so it's so hard to find pants that fit. In the end, the babies never really drop much b/c there's no where to go but out! Take care and have DH spoil you for awhile. :HH:

[Mochagirl]

Phew! I'm so relieved you got good news, princess! One down, one to go. Z - I'm sure you'll get some good news tomorrow too.

[DoulaMama]

Yay! Just got in from Trick or treating and saw your update!! I'm so happy everything looks ok, Princess!! xoxoxo

[zanacal]

That's wonderful news princess! Have you had any bleeding since? I'm so glad you heard that heartbeat!

My appointment is 2 1/4 hours from now (since we're all in different time zones!) and I'll update as soon as I can. I have a side stitch today and feel like maybe I'm having a bit of a growth spurt - I also feel sick and my boobs are mega sore (and big!) so I'm taking these all as good signs!

[Mochagirl]

Those do sound like good signs, Z! If I have my time zones correct (+5 hours from me?), I think you're having your scan right now. Sending you healthy bean vibes right now!

[zanacal]

Sorry for copying and pasting in a few places - Woo hoo, everything is ok! She found the heartbeat straight away and I'm measuring 11 weeks exactly. She could see a tiny bleed but said it was so insignificant that she wouldn't even mention it in her report. I didn't get a photo - I was going to ask but she'd whipped everything away before I could ask. To be honest, it all looked rather blurry anyway! So happy :D

This morning I found an ultrasound place not too far from me who will do sexing scans from 16 weeks and I'm seriously considering making an appointment. I know I said I'd like to hold out for a sign, but like most of us I'm spending a disproportionate amount of my time wondering whether it's a boy or a girl - maybe it'd be better to end the guessing game sooner for my own sanity!

My next ultrasound is in just over 2 weeks time on 17th November - not that long to wait!!

[Inglewood]

Princess and Z, fantastic news! Yeh!!!!!!! xxxx

[princesssarah34]

YAy Z!!! So glad everything is good with you!
I am still having some spotting...mostly brownish.....and every couple hours if that. It is weird cause it is mixed with ewcm. My doc asked me yesterday if I was constipated....and I said I did think so...but like I dodo don't ask what that had to do with anything. But the more I think about it I think I am a little.....so with that said anybody have any good remedies for that?
And could that be why I am spotting but so infrequintly??

[Mochagirl]

Yay, Z - I'm THRILLED that everything's ok!!!!!

I kind of agree about getting the gender news over with - I'm constantly obsessing too - my dilemma is that I'll be 16 weeks the week of Christmas. Do I find out then, which would make our big announcement to my in-laws, who we're visiting for Christmas easier (that way I can head off all the - I hope it's a girl! comments by saying 'I'm pregnant and it's a _____'). BUT, if I hear boy, is that going to ruin Christmas for me? Decisions, decisions....

princess - I don't normally suffer much constipation with pregnancy, or even on the girl diet, and I wonder if it's because I eat massive amounts of fruit. Maybe try to add more fresh fruit to your diet?

[DoulaMama]

YAYAYAYAYAYAY! So happy that everything looks good for you Z!!! Phew! You should get a good idea of what's inside if you manage to get a good nub pic- seeing as you'll be 13w right? So exciting!! And then just 3 more weeks to go until you know for sure!!! OMG the suspense!!!
I have to phone and book my u/s soon....It's making me nervous just thinking about it! 3 weeks to go! EEK!!!
Have to run! Gotta get ready for a birth:)
xoxo

[Mochagirl]

Lately I've had to shop in girls' sections of clothing stores a few times to gather parts for Halloween costumes (white pants for ds3m white gloves, etc.) and I keep looking around wondering if I'll finally be able to shop in that section for real. Honestly, if I found out I was having a girl, I'm not sure I'd believe it. I still have a long wait ahead of me until I find out - I'm only 9 weeks. And people complain about the 2WW being long - this is torture!

[zanacal]

I have the same problem Mocha - I don't think I can make a scan when I'm 16 weeks so it'd have to be a week later, which is the weekend before Christmas. I know I'll be disappointed not to be having a girl but I won't know until it happens exactly how I'll feel and I don't want to be glum over Christmas! At the scan they said my corpus luteum was on the left ovary which has me all excited because I read a study which said a girl is more likely when you ovulate from your left ovary (and I guess it's related to the whole Ramzi theory thing) so I'm trying to rein that back in.

princess - perhaps he wondered whether you'd been straining a lot and that that had something to do with the bleeding? I guess that it's brown now is good? My midwife said that if I had any more then the tail end of it might be brown.

[Inglewood]

Princess, I was seriously constipated when I was dehydrated due to sickness. I took Fybogel (Ispaghula Husk) u can buy it at the chemist here or Maybe said that Indian food shops sell it. I got some from chemist, took it at bedtime and went to the loo the next day!! You can take it twice a day, but due to my vomiting I only managed at bedtime when I could fall asleep b4 being sick. It goes thick quick, so you mix with 150mls of cold water and drink it quick. I'm a nurse and we use it with patients. With ds2 I took Lactulose which is sweet, but gives some people bad wind which can be sore. Hope it helps? x

[Inglewood]

Z, I bled when 7/8wks pg this time. Was told there was a bleed next to the sac at my early scan due to bad cramps and was told it might be brownish, which it was. Wasn't much, but scary all the same. Was told that sometimes when the placenta attaches it can be quite agressive to the womb and that can cause bleeding which will either be re-absorbed into the tissue or pass as a discharge sometime later. For me the bleed was about a week later after the scan. x

[DoulaMama]

This is a left hand side ovulation baby:) That's exciting Z!!
I'm hoping that you both hear "it's a girl!!!" right before Christmas:D how wonderful would that be!!!
Oh and I understand the "not believing" thing. I don't think I'll fully believe it until I see a vulva(in person!)!! LOL!!

[Inglewood]

I only ever seem to Ov from the right, maybe why I have boys???

[Mochagirl]

I've wondered the same thing, Inglewood. I mentioned this on Z's other thread, but I'm fairly positive I ovulated on the left this cycle - I had strong cramping on only that side around O, and in the month of cramps I had after O it was only on the left side as well (including all those stitch in my side cramps I had during the 2WW). Even now when I get weird twinges and pains it's on the left side.

[Inglewood]

Mocha, I got all my 2ww pains and cramping after on right side. I always got pain on right side b4 Af, so prob having 2 boys!! Can't remember the last time I ov'd left side??? prob not all ths year!! Sounds promising for u tho...lots of letf sided twinges :)

[Mochagirl]

I wouldn't worry about it, Inglewood - I've read in LOTS of places that there's no real correlation between the side you O and the gender of the baby. I'm just grasping at straws since I'm pretty convinced I'm having a boy :wink:.

[Mochagirl]

I'm feeling really crampy today and I'm not sure whether or not I should be worried. It fluctuates between af-like cramps in my lower abdomen and a sharp pain in my left side/kidneys. One ds has had bad diarrhea for a couple of days so I'm hoping that's all it is (who ever thought I'd be hoping for diarrhea?). I don't have any spotting or anything.

[zanacal]

mocha, from what I've heard from other prego mums cramping (even AF type cramping) is very normal in the early stages, but it's very worrying all the same! Has it got better at all? It's all such a worry isn't it?! {hugs}

FWIW, I thought I ovulated from the right hand side this cycle. I don't think we can necessarily tell which side we're ovulating from based on where we feel pains - Atomic made a good point that our bodies gear up to ovulate from both ovaries so it's quite possible we actually feel most pain from the side which doesn't make it! I'm just clinging at straws really!!

[Mochagirl]

I'm definitely just coming down with something. By suppertime tonight I had a high fever and chills, and the aches and pains moved from my abdomen to all over my body. Oh joy. At least I know it isn't a problem with the baby...

[Glittergirl]

Hey Girls sorry I've been MIA for so long. I've been super busy w work stuff, kids stuff, etc etc but just wanna update that I'm going for my big US tomorrow morning! I'm starting to get nervous....we are going in wanting to be surprised but not sure if I can do it! DH will support me either way. i'm thinking I'll ask for a shot of the goods but have her not tell me. then maybe I can post it on here and just obsess for the next 18+ weeks!!!! please wish me luck I'm super nervous...i just pray for a healthy little one in there!!!! I really hope to hear that all is well! OK, I'll be on more cause I want to see how everyone is doing and I need to get caught up with all of you and what's happening!!!!!

[Mochagirl]

Good luck with the scan, Glittergirl! Can't wait to see the pictures!

[zanacal]

Good luck Glittergirl, I can't wait to hear all about it!

How are you today Mocha? I hope you're not too poorly.

[zanacal]

Well I don't know how that happened - I just booked myself a gender scan, eek! It'll be on 17th December when I'm 17+2, exactly a month after the scan we're having in a couple of weeks time. I can cancel up to 48 hours beforehand but I'm sure that won't happen now I've actually booked it. I so hope I'm doing the right thing - I feel like I have 6 weeks to get ready for what is bound to be the 'blue' news!

[Mochagirl]

Good for you, Z! I think I might book a pre-Christmas apt too, and I could always cancel it if I change my mind. Then again, I also liked the idea of waiting until after my 20 week scan and using the private scan as a bonding experience....

I kept getting worse last night until I nearly fainted at bedtime. All my kids slept fitfully, which meant I did too. I was up with DS3 at 4:45am for the day! I feel like a walking zombie today and I don't know if it's because I'm sick or because I only had a few hours sleep.

Tylenol helps with the cramps - I keep getting a backache which I *hope* is caused by this flu I seem to have. Do you think I should call my midwife? She's not technically my caregiver yet since we haven't had our first appointment, but that appt is on Tuesday, and she already knows me.

[zanacal]

Urgh, I just wrote a post and somehow navigated away from this page and lost it!

I'm sorry you're feeling bad - having little sleep and feeling rough is difficult at the best of times. If I were you and I was worried about the aches then I would phone her. I'm sure she won't mind and will be able to reassure you.

[tweedledeedum]

Hi girls, I haven't been around much because of this darn m/s but I could really use some positive thoughts from you all. I woke up to pee last night to find myself spotting. More this morning, brown blood. I have been feling better the last couple days but I was hoping its because I'm close to 12 weeks. I was super constipated a few days ago but it shouldn't cause spotting now, right? I am due for my first midwife appointment tomorrow. If it gets any worse, I will find a dr. To see today. I had subchorionic hematomas with both of my boys but they started earlier (6 and 10 weeks). I am totally freaking out over here.

[Mochagirl]

Oh, tweedle - I'm so sorry you're so stressed out! I've never spotted in any of my pregnancies, so I don't have any advice, I just hope your midwife puts your mind at ease tomorrow! :HH:

[DoulaMama]

I wouldn't worry about it, Inglewood - I've read in LOTS of places that there's no real correlation between the side you O and the gender of the baby. I'm just grasping at straws since I'm pretty convinced I'm having a boy :wink:.
I think this too....I'm thinking it has to be weird coincidence or something. I have no idea what side I ovulated on with my first. I tend to only get pains when I O on my right and nothing when I O on my left. It was very strange this time. I had cramping on my left side and then at around 9pm I had a sharp twinge(like "double me over" sharp) and then very bad cramping from that side for over 2 hours. I had to lay on the couch with a hot water bottle on my tummy. I'm thinking it did happen from that side but like Z said....we can't know FOR SURE right:) I bet you're still having 2 Girlies, Inglewood!
And Mocha! I was convinced too! So much for mothers intuition! I think fear creeps in and takes over so it's really hard for any of us to really know until we see the goods! I'm really hoping that you'll get to buy the sweetest girly stuff for Christmas:HH:

mocha, from what I've heard from other prego mums cramping (even AF type cramping) is very normal in the early stages, but it's very worrying all the same! Has it got better at all? It's all such a worry isn't it?! {hugs}

FWIW, I thought I ovulated from the right hand side this cycle. I don't think we can necessarily tell which side we're ovulating from based on where we feel pains - Atomic made a good point that our bodies gear up to ovulate from both ovaries so it's quite possible we actually feel most pain from the side which doesn't make it! I'm just clinging at straws really!!
I agree!!

Hey Girls sorry I've been MIA for so long. I've been super busy w work stuff, kids stuff, etc etc but just wanna update that I'm going for my big US tomorrow morning! I'm starting to get nervous....we are going in wanting to be surprised but not sure if I can do it! DH will support me either way. i'm thinking I'll ask for a shot of the goods but have her not tell me. then maybe I can post it on here and just obsess for the next 18+ weeks!!!! please wish me luck I'm super nervous...i just pray for a healthy little one in there!!!! I really hope to hear that all is well! OK, I'll be on more cause I want to see how everyone is doing and I need to get caught up with all of you and what's happening!!!!!
So good to hear from you!!! I can't wait to hear about your scan!!! Good Luck Mama!!! I have a good feeling you'll see girly parts!!!! xoxoxox

Well I don't know how that happened - I just booked myself a gender scan, eek! It'll be on 17th December when I'm 17+2, exactly a month after the scan we're having in a couple of weeks time. I can cancel up to 48 hours beforehand but I'm sure that won't happen now I've actually booked it. I so hope I'm doing the right thing - I feel like I have 6 weeks to get ready for what is bound to be the 'blue' news!
ACK! 6 weeks! It'll go by so fast! I'm so excited for you! The countdown begins!!! I think we should all add u/s countdown tickers! LOL

Good for you, Z! I think I might book a pre-Christmas apt too, and I could always cancel it if I change my mind. Then again, I also liked the idea of waiting until after my 20 week scan and using the private scan as a bonding experience....

I kept getting worse last night until I nearly fainted at bedtime. All my kids slept fitfully, which meant I did too. I was up with DS3 at 4:45am for the day! I feel like a walking zombie today and I don't know if it's because I'm sick or because I only had a few hours sleep.

Tylenol helps with the cramps - I keep getting a backache which I *hope* is caused by this flu I seem to have. Do you think I should call my midwife? She's not technically my caregiver yet since we haven't had our first appointment, but that appt is on Tuesday, and she already knows me.
I'm so sorry you feel so badly:( Everyone seems to have the flu here! I had it really bad with DS3- I was 12w and I puked for 12hours straight, every 20 mins on the dot. It was BRUtAL. I had to get my hubby to drive me in to the hospital, in a blizzard, to get 3 bags of IV fluid as I was so dehydrated. I started to cramp and the nurse on the health line told me I could miscarry:( What a scary night. All this to say that our little munchkins are strong, they can deal with a lot of stress and come out A-OK in the end so try not to worry too much~ I know, easier said than done. xoxoxo

Hi girls, I haven't been around much because of this darn m/s but I could really use some positive thoughts from you all. I woke up to pee last night to find myself spotting. More this morning, brown blood. I have been feling better the last couple days but I was hoping its because I'm close to 12 weeks. I was super constipated a few days ago but it shouldn't cause spotting now, right? I am due for my first midwife appointment tomorrow. If it gets any worse, I will find a dr. To see today. I had subchorionic hematomas with both of my boys but they started earlier (6 and 10 weeks). I am totally freaking out over here.
The constipation could totally be causing the spotting! It sounds like everything is most likely fine Mama((HUGS)). I hope you get some reassurance soon~They should have no trouble finding the heartbeat now:) xoxoxo

[zanacal]

I'm sorry tweedle - that's exactly what happened to me last week, waking up in the night to pee and then finding spotting. I rang the midwife on call at the hospital first thing on Sunday morning and she got me in for a scan on Tuesday morning (it felt like forever!). Have you had your 12w scan yet, I can't remember? I hope your midwife is able to send you for a scan for reassurance too. {hugs}

[princesssarah34]

Wow I have missed a few things being MIA a few days.
Tweedle....I think that is what caused my spotting over the weekend. Cause I have not seen anything for about a day and a half. My Dr.'s nurse said being constipated can cause pressure to be placed on the uterus and cause some spotting...and if it is brown it is most likely old blood!
GL we will all be sitting here waiting on the edge of our seats to hear your news!!
Z 6 weeks will fly by.....I am hoping the next 3 go quickly for me!

[Glittergirl]

Ok I'm back! U/S was perfect and baby looks perfect! We didn't cave in and didn't find the gender BUT she did give me the dvd with lots of potty shots. I'm horrible at U/S prediction but i will try to post them later on see what you girls think!

DM--WOW I missed a lot!!! I went back a few pages...are you having a GIRL??? that is such awesome news. I'm gonna have to go back and read the posts. I must have missed a lot!!!

Ok I'm taking a quick break from writing up reports just wanted to update that baby is healthy!!!

[princesssarah34]

GL....I would have caved!:bigsmile: You are a bigger woman then I am!
Glad everything looked good with the baby though...and that is what really matters!

[DoulaMama]

Ok I'm back! U/S was perfect and baby looks perfect! We didn't cave in and didn't find the gender BUT she did give me the dvd with lots of potty shots. I'm horrible at U/S prediction but i will try to post them later on see what you girls think!

DM--WOW I missed a lot!!! I went back a few pages...are you having a GIRL??? that is such awesome news. I'm gonna have to go back and read the posts. I must have missed a lot!!!

Ok I'm taking a quick break from writing up reports just wanted to update that baby is healthy!!!

So glad that your u/s went well and that bubs looks healthy!!! Yay! I seriously can't wait to see your u/s video!!!!!! Ahhhhhh!

AFM- I'm pretty sure I am! I haven't had a single boy guess on my nub/potty shots which is exciting! I have them posted in the u/s threads! I'm very excited!!
I find out for sure on the 23rd! Eek!!! Thanks!! xoxo

[Glittergirl]

GL....I would have caved!:bigsmile: You are a bigger woman then I am!
Glad everything looked good with the baby though...and that is what really matters!
HaHAhA.....not really! I got the dvd with potty shot on it and now I'm going crazy trying to guess LOL!

[Glittergirl]

IF anyone is interested in taking a peek at my potty shot.... its on the u/s board as well
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QVW5fk_uEKM I actually have a better shot too...I may try to upload it. It was hard cause I just videotaped it off my old TV in the bedroom (didn't want DH to see what I was up to Shhhhhh!)

[zanacal]

Hi All

Glittergirl - I'm so glad everything went well at your scan - I'll be off to check out your potty shots soon!

Tweedle - any news sweetie?

Mocha - are you better, has the back ache eased?

AFM, I had the WEIRDEST pregnancy symptom (I assume it's pregnancy related anyway!). I got up bursting for a wee in the night and no matter how much I tried I couldn't get any wee to come out - it took me 45 minutes and I finally managed it bent right forwards touching the floor. It was so uncomfortable because my bladder was really full and I was just sat there using the right muscles but nothing was happening and my eyes were watering so hard! I felt for sure I'd be at the doctors this morning but it seems to have been ok ever since. How odd!

[Mochagirl]

That's strange, Z - I've never had anything like that before, but dh does once in a while (and he'd be SO pleased to know I'm sharing this with all of you :wink:). Usually he only has it happen once then he's fine.

The backache's mostly gone, but now I just feel nauseous and crappy. I also have a cough now, which is unpleasant. At least this sickness has slowed down my crazy weight gain. My weight was down 2 pounds when I weighed myself this morning.

Only 4 days until my first mw appointment. Then I can book my first u/s and get ready to nubsess. I'm SO happy with all the good news around this board lately, but I keep thinking there's no way all this good luck is going to last long enough for me to hear girl.

[DoulaMama]

Z- I have that with each pregnancy at 9-11 weeks but it can happen later in pregnancy too. What's causing it is your uterus is cutting off the bladder exit-the urethra is pinched. If you can't urinate, go draw a bath and lay flat in the flat water. This really helps. Plus, do knee/chest position a few times a day. It takes the uterus off the bladder. If you wait too long to pee in the night, it's worse, so you might have to set an alarm to pee more often. It will almost always resolve itself once you're further along and the uterus moves farther up but if you get intense pain, you'll need a cath. :( I had this pretty bad for 1 week this pregnancy. The knee/chest position does wonders!xoxo

[zanacal]

Z- I have that with each pregnancy at 9-11 weeks but it can happen later in pregnancy too. What's causing it is your uterus is cutting off the bladder exit-the urethra is pinched. If you can't urinate, go draw a bath and lay flat in the flat water. This really helps. Plus, do knee/chest position a few times a day. It takes the uterus off the bladder. If you wait too long to pee in the night, it's worse, so you might have to set an alarm to pee more often. It will almost always resolve itself once you're further along and the uterus moves farther up but if you get intense pain, you'll need a cath. :( I had this pretty bad for 1 week this pregnancy. The knee/chest position does wonders!xoxo

Thank you SO much - in the middle of the night I thought this might be something you'd know about! By knee/chest position, do you mean just sitting with my knees up or lying on the floor and bringing them up (and keeping them there or doing repetitions?) or doesn't it matter? Perhaps this will be my new position for watching telly in the evenings! It would also explain how I finally got to go by bending right over forwards.

[DoulaMama]

LOL ^ that's supposed to say "lay flat in the water"! Stupid phone!
Knee/chest- get on hands and knees, lower your chest to the ground so your front half is completely touching the ground as your bum is way up in the air. Make sure your knees dont crawl out behind you. It's NOT comfy but try to do this for 5 minutes 3x a day. It helps pop the uterus off the bladder. :) I hope it gets better soon:) Don't be shocked if it gets a bit worse before it gets better. Keeping the bladder empty will really help especially at night. xoxo

[DoulaMama]

No moving while in the K/C position- just hold it for 3-5mins:)

[zanacal]

Thanks I'll do it (I spent many hours over the course of my 2nd and 3rd pregnancies in that position trying in vain to prevent another OP labour and birth so I should have known!). I'll also set the alarm for every couple of hours tonight just in case - I don't fancy having to go to hospital in the middle of the night for a catheter!

I just found some information on it on the internet and other ladies seem to think it's more likely when the uterus is tilting backwards, which mine does. Does yours? Any thoughts on whether the position of my uterus might be affecting the position of my babies in labour? They were all OP at the end even if I managed to keep them from being so in the lead up!

[Glittergirl]

Z--I never have had that happen to me either, but DM is right, i was also thinking your uterus may be "in the way"--I had a friend have this problem. Hope it gets better. Gosh DM! Catheter? Did you have to have that? Ouch!
Mocha--I bet you have your girl in there! there's enough luck to go around for sure! I can't wait to nubsess about your nub! I go crazy looking at nubs and I'm no good at it either LOL!

[DoulaMama]

Z- yes! Mine tilts back:) so does my mothers...it's passed down from mom usually. This then presses the front of the uterus into the urethra.
I have weird positioned babies too. First was fine, but 2nd was complete OP at birth, second was complete OT(forehead facing right thigh). I have another anterior placenta(2nd DS did too) so I'm thinking this will be another joyous OP birth!!! LOL! They hurt hey!? Man oh man, the pain in my back was indescribable:( I think that some positioning helps- not reclining etc near birth day- but for the most part, babies just know which position is best for them as long as you have free movement through birth and labour. Have you had complete OP babies at birth? Were they long or fast pushing stages?

[DoulaMama]

GG- no cath for me, TG! But it took an hour to urinate. I thought I was going to die! The pain was horrible. I laid down in the tub and relaxed on my back, and voila! 4 cups of urine made it's way out!!! LOL!
I agree totally GG,! Mocha- you have such incredible odds of this being your Girl! I am rooting for PINK over here!!

[zanacal]

Z- yes! Mine tilts back:) so does my mothers...it's passed down from mom usually. This then presses the front of the uterus into the urethra.
I have weird positioned babies too. First was fine, but 2nd was complete OP at birth, second was complete OT(forehead facing right thigh). I have another anterior placenta(2nd DS did too) so I'm thinking this will be another joyous OP birth!!! LOL! They hurt hey!? Man oh man, the pain in my back was indescribable:( I think that some positioning helps- not reclining etc near birth day- but for the most part, babies just know which position is best for them as long as you have free movement through birth and labour. Have you had complete OP babies at birth? Were they long or fast pushing stages?

My mum had a tilting uterus and my sister does too - so that makes total sense! My labours have all been incredibly intense from the first contraction - not necessarily in the back by just 'OUCH'! I always look at ladies who say 'it wasn't too bad to begin with' like they're crazy! I wasn't prepared for it the first time and I ended up with your typical cascade of intervention having caved and had an epidural - thankfully I was able to give birth to him without assistance but it was a close call. I decided no more epidurals after that and, as you know, DS2 was at home with breathing difficulties. The midwife actually helped him to turn while I was pushing (in a standing squat!) for 2 hours and I really feel she shouldn't have done that and knowing what I know now I wouldn't have let her! DS3 came out relatively easily actually, I think I only pushed for around 5 minutes on my back (evil, old school midwife wouldn't let me turn off of my back - though possibly because there was a pile of shit on the bed lol!). I'm now used to being examined right near the end and being told 'baby is still very high up and there's a lip of cervix in the way'. It's very disheartening but I know what to expect and know I can do it now! When I was pregnant with DS3 I using the site www.spinningbabies.com and did lots of positioning - maybe it helped a little, maybe it didn't! Do you fancy coming and being my doula?!

[Mochagirl]

Is OP the same thing as a posterior baby? If so, both my births were like that too. My Baby A with my twins was posterior, which is probably why they declared that I was failing to progress and gave me a c-section. DS3 was also posterior, and as you know it was a completely unmedicated, natural birth...and OUCH!! Actually, the midwife did end up reaching into me at the last push and turning him around so he could come out. I'd been pushing forever and even had a huge eposiotamy and he still wasn't coming out. Is her manually turning him a bad thing? I know it hurt like HELL!

DM - I wish you could be MY doula as well!

[zanacal]

Yes - OP is posterior or back-to-back. I just feel that he should have been given time to turn by himself and that the shock of being 'helped' could have contributed to his not breathing when he was born. That may not be the case but in retrospect I wish they had helped me with some positioning techniques at least in the first instance.

[Mochagirl]

ds3 had some very brief breathing problems as well. I think he failed his first APGAR and needed some oxygen. They had told me they'd put him on my belly right after birth as long as he was healthy, but they whisked him away instead. I wonder if it was the shock of being turned? They did have me try different positions once they discovered he was posterior, but he wasn't budging.

[zanacal]

Still, the next ones will be easy peasy right?!!

[tweedledeedum]

I had my appointment today and we couldn't find a constant heartbeat. She thought she heard baby moving and we heard a couple beats a couple times but not enough to register. I'm 11 wks, 4 days. She said she sometimes can't get the heartbeat this early. I'm having an u/s monday to find out for sure what is happening.

Glad to hear you are all doing well. Gg I'm going to check out your potty shots now!

[zanacal]

tweedle - I'm hoping so hard that it was just too early and I'm so sorry you have to wait the whole weekend to find out for sure. The fact that she heard something is a good sign isn't it? {hugs} and I hope it doesn't go too slowly for you x

[Mochagirl]

tweedle - I wouldn't worry too much (I know, easier said than done). It IS definitely early and I agree with Z that it's good that she heard SOMETHING. I hope the weekend passes very quickly for you.

[DoulaMama]

My mum had a tilting uterus and my sister does too - so that makes total sense! My labours have all been incredibly intense from the first contraction - not necessarily in the back by just 'OUCH'! I always look at ladies who say 'it wasn't too bad to begin with' like they're crazy! I wasn't prepared for it the first time and I ended up with your typical cascade of intervention having caved and had an epidural - thankfully I was able to give birth to him without assistance but it was a close call. I decided no more epidurals after that and, as you know, DS2 was at home with breathing difficulties. The midwife actually helped him to turn while I was pushing (in a standing squat!) for 2 hours and I really feel she shouldn't have done that and knowing what I know now I wouldn't have let her! DS3 came out relatively easily actually, I think I only pushed for around 5 minutes on my back (evil, old school midwife wouldn't let me turn off of my back - though possibly because there was a pile of shit on the bed lol!). I'm now used to being examined right near the end and being told 'baby is still very high up and there's a lip of cervix in the way'. It's very disheartening but I know what to expect and know I can do it now! When I was pregnant with DS3 I using the site www.spinningbabies.com and did lots of positioning - maybe it helped a little, maybe it didn't! Do you fancy coming and being my doula?!
Oh, if I had the funds, I would be there in a second! My dad lives and works in Southern part of England(not totally sure where though!LOL!) so I'd stay with him!! ;) I would LOVE to be there! :D I'd bring my newborn, strap her to my back and do what you needed me to do! LOL
WARNING...rant ahead....
It's frustrating to hear the stories....I know that it's not right to judge as I wasn't there at all, but....there are some things that just don't need to be done. I am 100% against cervical checks in labour. Unless the heart tones tell you there is a possible cord prolapse...cervical checks do nothing. A lip means NOTHING. Why can't a midwife trust a woman's body??? If you were checked on your back with an OP baby, there is ALWAYS a lip. You must be leaning forward, on all fours when checked and it will be much more accurate when checked. Was it an anterior lip? I'm guessing yes which is how most if not all OP babies dilate a cervix. If you felt the urge to push before 10cm it's because your body knew it could push the baby through the lip. After 3 babies...you know when to push, how to push and no check is going to tell you more than just listening to your body. I started pushing my last out at 7cm! Cervix's are stretchy! If you feel pain...it's better not to push. If it feels good, keep doing what you're doing.
If a MW is going to turn a baby, it should be done WAY earlier before the pushing stage even begins. A woman gets into the knee/chest position so the weight is off the cervix and then manually turns them. (Although, you don't have to turn an OP baby at all. A little time and they will come out. It just takes them a bit longer.) If the baby is too low, the neck gets cranked and it's not very good for the baby- especially if there is a nuchal cord. Plus this should only be done if the water has broken(on it's own). Breaking water is another issue I have with Dr's and Medwives. Pushing on your back is for the convenience of the MIDWIFE ONLY. It does not help mom or baby. Babies who's moms push on their backs have worse apgars than upright birthing mothers. A woman should be in whatever position feels right. Many times, a floppy baby is because the mom was put into a position by a caregiver...Mom can't listen to her body and adopt the right position for the baby. A mom instinctively knows when to change position....a midwife can many times interfere with this CAUSING the issues she wants to stay away from.


Is OP the same thing as a posterior baby? If so, both my births were like that too. My Baby A with my twins was posterior, which is probably why they declared that I was failing to progress and gave me a c-section. DS3 was also posterior, and as you know it was a completely unmedicated, natural birth...and OUCH!! Actually, the midwife did end up reaching into me at the last push and turning him around so he could come out. I'd been pushing forever and even had a huge eposiotamy and he still wasn't coming out. Is her manually turning him a bad thing? I know it hurt like HELL!

DM - I wish you could be MY doula as well!
Oh Mocha! I would be there in a heartbeat!! How many days would it take me drive??? LOL!

How were you pushing?? What position?? How long had the pushing stage been going on for? How were his heart tones?(Epi's don't do a whole lot for getting them out...she cut you because she needed to get her hand in there... :()

Yes - OP is posterior or back-to-back. I just feel that he should have been given time to turn by himself and that the shock of being 'helped' could have contributed to his not breathing when he was born. That may not be the case but in retrospect I wish they had helped me with some positioning techniques at least in the first instance.
Yes....I agree. Any intervention can cause the baby harm. I guess a MW has to weigh the pros and cons....was he doing badly? Were his heart tones low and not recovering after the cx's? If he was fine, she should have tried something else. A rebozo in early labour is a wonderful way to turn a posterior baby. Let me know if you want more info:) Plus, lunges up the stairs 2 at a time, or standing lunges with one foot raised. Being on all fours, or laying against the back of a couch(leaning forward) can help. Sometimes squatting doesn't work well as it puts a lot of pressure on baby and they need more room to move. The knee/chest position is also great during early labour. A midwife needs to become a doula for awhile and figure out how they can get this baby to move without doing something medical.

ds3 had some very brief breathing problems as well. I think he failed his first APGAR and needed some oxygen. They had told me they'd put him on my belly right after birth as long as he was healthy, but they whisked him away instead. I wonder if it was the shock of being turned? They did have me try different positions once they discovered he was posterior, but he wasn't budging. I mentioned this above...turning a babe too late doesn't often work as well as in early labour. Plus, cutting the babe's cord because of breathing issues!!!!! AHHHH!!! This makes me want to scream!!!! Room air has been proven to work BETTER than oxygen and they KNOW this. And with all the oxygen in that baby's cord...they were doing him a disservice by cutting his cord. Doing some back rubs, breathing in the baby's face, talking to him...all of these things work better at getting a baby to come around than cutting the cord prematurely and whisking AWAY from the mom. And even if the baby needs more than that, they can resuscitate while the cord is still attached. I so hope that Dr's(And mw's) start to "get it" soon. Babies don't need to breathe right away because they are still getting all their oxygen needs met by the placenta for the first few minutes. Most of the time it only takes a few minutes for a baby to really start crying and pink up:) I have some awesome video I could show you- mom does infant resus on her own baby and although it's a little scary to us...she just followed her gut and did it with no help. Pretty amazing what Mama can do!


Still, the next ones will be easy peasy right?!!

YES!!!! The more babies you have, the more confidence and knowledge you gain, and the easier it is!!! (at least this is what I hope for and wish for all the Mama's out there!) Empowering Births!

[DoulaMama]

I had my appointment today and we couldn't find a constant heartbeat. She thought she heard baby moving and we heard a couple beats a couple times but not enough to register. I'm 11 wks, 4 days. She said she sometimes can't get the heartbeat this early. I'm having an u/s monday to find out for sure what is happening.

Glad to hear you are all doing well. Gg I'm going to check out your potty shots now!

If baby is low in the pelvis or you have a tilted uterus it's very hard to find the heartbeat this early. Plus, babies don't like dopplers:( It's basically like a train being driven by them at top speed...they are very loud(even though we think they can't hear until 20+ weeks they can still feel it in their body) and uncomfortable for them. Many times they will try to get away from the doppler if they can. It's the same with u/s. A baby will often try to cover it's ears when they are past 20 weeks as it's overwhelming for them. A have some links and info if you need it:) I wouldn't worry too much about babe! I'm sure he/she is fine!! If you could hear movement while the doppler was on you, then I'm sure there is a squiggly little baby in there!! xoxo

[Mochagirl]

Wow, DM - start driving now, because I want you here for the birth! :HH: Although I have 3 kids, I've only delivered vaginally once, so I still consider myself a novice. I'm not sure how long I was pushing - maybe a couple of hours? Long enough that the midwife said he wasn't coming out without an episiotomy. I pushed for a while after the episiotomy, then without wanring, on my last push, that's when she plunged her hands in, turned him and yanked him out. I was on my back, honestly - though my midwife is very lovely (despite a bit of ignorance, perhaps), and I'm sure if I had asked she'd have let me use a different position.

I had a horrible urge to push from the moment I entered full-on labour. I found the pain of trying not to push worse than the pain of the contraction itself. Maybe that's normal - how would I know - it was my first time labouring without an epidural. With my twins they pretty much forced an epidural on me the moment I entered the hospital, right after (very painfully) breaking my water. I hadn't even started labour yet. By the time they decided I needed a c-section, 27 hours later, the epidural was wearing off and they had to keep cranking it up to try to keep me numb. As I lay on the operating table with them about to cut into me, they told me that the epidural could wear off in the middle of the surgery and they'd have to knock me out quickly. Lovely. See why I wanted a VBAC with a midwife my second time around?

[DoulaMama]

Wow, DM - start driving now, because I want you here for the birth! :HH: Although I have 3 kids, I've only delivered vaginally once, so I still consider myself a novice. I'm not sure how long I was pushing - maybe a couple of hours? Long enough that the midwife said he wasn't coming out without an episiotomy.
Was he crowning? I could see the need for an episiotomy if he had been fighting against a very tight perineal area but if he wasn't crowing yet....that doesn't sound right, to be honest. Did she even mention that you should maybe work with gravity? :) I'm surprised that she wouldn't want you to move, or sit on the toilet etc. Were his heart tones ok throughout?
I pushed for a while after the episiotomy, then without wanring, on my last push, that's when she plunged her hands in, turned him and yanked him out. I was on my back, honestly - though my midwife is very lovely (despite a bit of ignorance, perhaps), and I'm sure if I had asked she'd have let me use a different position.

I had a horrible urge to push from the moment I entered full-on labour. I found the pain of trying not to push worse than the pain of the contraction itself. Maybe that's normal - how would I know - it was my first time labouring without an epidural. With my twins they pretty much forced an epidural on me the moment I entered the hospital, right after (very painfully) breaking my water. I hadn't even started labour yet. By the time they decided I needed a c-section, 27 hours later, the epidural was wearing off and they had to keep cranking it up to try to keep me numb. As I lay on the operating table with them about to cut into me, they told me that the epidural could wear off in the middle of the surgery and they'd have to knock me out quickly. Lovely. See why I wanted a VBAC with a midwife my second time around?
Oh Mocha~I would seriously come out there! :HH: Although if your MW starts plunging into anything I may have a few choice words for her! :rofl: I'd even bring my fancy birth pool!!!
I'm just so saddened to hear that some midwives just DO things without telling a woman or letting her know that it might hurt etc. You should have been supported in a position that allowed you to push more effectively first of all.
About the urge....when a first time(vaginal) mom has an OP baby she often feels the urge sooner than 10cm. Sometimes a woman can push with these urges and it will help...other times it will cause some swelling but only when you hold your breath and really bear down instead of "grunt" pushing. Your body might have been trying to work with the cx's to get him turned or realized that it would take a bit more time to get him down because of the OP positioning. It will be 100% different this time. Your cervix will dilate differently, you'll have a MUCH faster pushing stage with much less effort. I can bet on it!
I'm sorry about what they did to you with the twins:( They were basically setting you up for a c-section without you even realizing it. They feel the need to epi all the twin moms because of a possible c-section but in the end they create the need for the section. Are you free to labour in water with a midwife in Ontario? Do they "allow" that with VBAC mom's? That's one thing I recommend for all women is labouring in water...even if you don't have a waterbirth, it is amazing for pain relief:) Just in case you have another OP baby;)

I have a very lovely midwife that I used for 2 pregnancies(didn't call her for the birth of #3 though)and she is such a sweet woman! The thing I have a problem with is the lack of current, up to date practices. She is still doing things that shouldn't be done. It's just like many old Dr's...once they feel something should be done...they'll keep doing it that way until they retire. It's frustrating.

[zanacal]

I love your attitude DM and you back-up everything I also feel. I do feel we're lucky in the UK to be cared for by midwives (not doctors) where there are no issues and that we don't for the most part have what seem to be the far more medicalised hospital births in other countries - no lying on your back in hospital gowns being told when to push and to the count of 10! I enjoyed my homebirth (I used a pool to labour in!) but I will never have another one because of the issues DS2 had (whether they had been preventable with different actions from the midwife or not), mainly because DH is absolutely not comfortable with that and I'm not prepared to put him through the fear of another homebirth - so I have to take the best I can from a hospital birth. I'll be at a new hospital this time because we've moved house so I don't know what they'll be like - but if it's similar to the last one there'll be a birthing ball, CD player etc and we'll be free to set up the room to our liking and probably left to our own devices for the most part (unless we manage to get a pool room which is what I'm hoping for). I also have a leaflet which says the midwives are able to provide aromatherapy which sounds rather pleasant! My birth plan basically states no drugs except gas and air and as little intervention and as active a birth as possible. My urge to push has always come early with my OP babies and I've just gone with it - first birth aside (when I had the epidural) I've never been told when to push and have been left to do what my body feels (besdies not being given the help to turn off my back late on with DS3 but I lucked out with my midwife who was way too old school). I love hearing your advice though and you're going to be so helpful to me down the line - I'll try and labour at home for as long as possible before I go to the hospital so perhaps I should have you up on Skype or something :D

Also, interested, I just read on another thread that you get a 'feeling' about gender with some ladies. Tell it to me straight :D Do you feel anything for me?!

[Mochagirl]

Yes, he was crowning...I think. I don't know really. Honestly, I was in so much pain I was willing to do anything at that point.

As I said, I do like my midwife a lot...though I will admit she is young and perhaps inexperienced. I did feel in control of my birth experience - I really feel she would have supported me doing anything I wanted...I just didn't know what to ask for. I did labour in the tub for a while and didn't like it at all. I spent much of my time swaying on my feet or propped up on my hands and knees, and it was only when I was pushing that I lay on my back. For all I know I was even the one to suggest it - I wasn't really in my right mind by then and DH was already fainting from the blood that was gushing out every contraction :wink:.

In other news, I'm still quite sick. This sickness has settled into my lungs and now I've completely lost my voice and I'm hacking up a lung every few minutes. This morning I noticed a brownish stain on my underwear - no spotting when I wipe, though I do have TONS of yellowish CM. Is this anything to worry about?

[ELP]

Mocha, if your coughing alot then I would guess that the brownish cm is just old stuff literally being forced out of your body with the coughs:agree: Nothing to worry about and may not have even showed up without the cough!

DM, keep the rants coming!! I'm sure so many of us will go into the L&D rooms when time comes feeling alot more confident with what we're doing:) I'm hoping to be able to post on here from the delivery room for company as I go in alone and last time texting the family really comforted me, hope your online around mid-March:bigsmile:

[Inglewood]

Hi all, not been on for a few day, was nightshift and what a rotten 2 nights they were, sick with thumping headaches! Just catching up now with ur posts.

Tweedle, Hope ur keeping ok over the wkend and ur scan goes well. x

Thanks Doula, hope ur right and it's 2 wee girlies in there! Have a scan in 10 days, but since I will only be 15w5d, doubt they will take a guess for me. Have booked a 4d scan, but that's not till after xmas at 25wks pg. Not too long for u to wait to find out? Sure you have ur girl in there, all those nub guesses will be spot on! x

Mocha, sorry ur poorly, hate this time of yr, so many 'bugs' about! I have my flu jag on the 14th!! Not sure about ur staining, I had a wee bit of brown d/c at 7/8wks, but everything was fine. Had an early scan. Try not worry, but if it gets worse contact ur midwife. Hope ur backach better? x

I had terrible cramping early on, so bad, that's why I had my early U/S. Esp from right side, when I had ds2 they told me it was the corpus luteum cyst, but this time they couldn't explain it. Just 'stretching' and baby trying to 'get comfy' in there....they told me...lol

Z, that must of been so uncomfortable! I've had bladder probs for yrs, have to lean forward to pee sometimes!!!! It's awful, hope it settles soon.

GG, sorry, not good at nub guesses, but what a fab video! x

[Inglewood]

Well I don't know how that happened - I just booked myself a gender scan, eek! It'll be on 17th December when I'm 17+2, exactly a month after the scan we're having in a couple of weeks time. I can cancel up to 48 hours beforehand but I'm sure that won't happen now I've actually booked it. I so hope I'm doing the right thing - I feel like I have 6 weeks to get ready for what is bound to be the 'blue' news!

Fab!!! not that long to wait, 6wks will fly by..... Fx you hear pink news!! When is ur 1st U/S appt? x

[DoulaMama]

I love your attitude DM and you back-up everything I also feel. I do feel we're lucky in the UK to be cared for by midwives (not doctors) where there are no issues and that we don't for the most part have what seem to be the far more medicalised hospital births in other countries - no lying on your back in hospital gowns being told when to push and to the count of 10! I enjoyed my homebirth (I used a pool to labour in!) but I will never have another one because of the issues DS2 had (whether they had been preventable with different actions from the midwife or not), mainly because DH is absolutely not comfortable with that and I'm not prepared to put him through the fear of another homebirth - so I have to take the best I can from a hospital birth. I'll be at a new hospital this time because we've moved house so I don't know what they'll be like - but if it's similar to the last one there'll be a birthing ball, CD player etc and we'll be free to set up the room to our liking and probably left to our own devices for the most part (unless we manage to get a pool room which is what I'm hoping for). I also have a leaflet which says the midwives are able to provide aromatherapy which sounds rather pleasant! My birth plan basically states no drugs except gas and air and as little intervention and as active a birth as possible. My urge to push has always come early with my OP babies and I've just gone with it - first birth aside (when I had the epidural) I've never been told when to push and have been left to do what my body feels (besdies not being given the help to turn off my back late on with DS3 but I lucked out with my midwife who was way too old school). I love hearing your advice though and you're going to be so helpful to me down the line - I'll try and labour at home for as long as possible before I go to the hospital so perhaps I should have you up on Skype or something :D

Also, interested, I just read on another thread that you get a 'feeling' about gender with some ladies. Tell it to me straight :D Do you feel anything for me?!

Your hospital seriously sounds lovely, Z:) To be left alone and not told how/where/when to do things! Wow! That rarely happens here in my city. Your plan sounds great! Laboring at home for as long as possible is such a great idea:) You're pretty close to the hospital? Oh, and I 100% feel that although homebirth is a fantatic option for many women, it's not for all. We all have to feel good about where we give birth. It would be a different story if you were desperate for another HB and your hubby said no. It should be up to Mama to decide where she should birth the baby. Women want the best for their babies and should be trusted with those decisions:) Just my 2cents! It sounds like you have a detailed plan and good idea about what you want, which is great! It'll be fabulous!! Oh and I would absolutely, without a doubt, skype, text, talk to you on the phone when the big day arrives!!.... I would love to help out if help or ideas are needed:D xoxo

[DoulaMama]

Yes, he was crowning...I think. I don't know really. Honestly, I was in so much pain I was willing to do anything at that point.

As I said, I do like my midwife a lot...though I will admit she is young and perhaps inexperienced. I did feel in control of my birth experience - I really feel she would have supported me doing anything I wanted...I just didn't know what to ask for. I did labour in the tub for a while and didn't like it at all. I spent much of my time swaying on my feet or propped up on my hands and knees, and it was only when I was pushing that I lay on my back. For all I know I was even the one to suggest it - I wasn't really in my right mind by then and DH was already fainting from the blood that was gushing out every contraction :wink:.

In other news, I'm still quite sick. This sickness has settled into my lungs and now I've completely lost my voice and I'm hacking up a lung every few minutes. This morning I noticed a brownish stain on my underwear - no spotting when I wipe, though I do have TONS of yellowish CM. Is this anything to worry about?

I'm so sorry that you feel so crummy:( The coughing can totally produce some spotting. It irritates the uterus and cervix but it should have no impact on baby:) I wouldn't worry about the cm at all:) I have tons of cm daily. There are some days it feels like I'm losing my plug! It's crazy! Anyway, coughing, having bm's,etc all push the cm out of you so tend to see more of it.

About your birth- if you were crowning that makes much more sense:) I think maybe sitting with your mw and asking her about what happened at the end of your birth, would be a great idea:) maybe his head was tilted and she straightened him out which is why she needed to do the epi at the end. I've also had a few clients who HATE the water. It's not very grounding for them and they just can't stand it. I hope I didn't come across like your mw is an awful person!!! Sincerely didn't mean to make it sound like that!! Most Dr's and MW's want to help:) They go to school with the intention that they will save lives and be an important part of the birth. The thing is with many of them, they feel the need to DO something when for the most part they could knit or read a book in the corner if the room!! But, after all that schooling, they feel that women need to helped, saved, etc. Not to say your mw is like this! Its just that from experience MANY are. I just had a birth where the woman chose to push on her back for the majority of the birth. She felt comfortable and it worked fine up until crowning. She then squatted with some help and it really worked for those last few pushes:) a change in position can do wonders sometimes:)(oh and without an epi this time, the blood won't be gushing out and your hubby should be fine!!! ;)) All this to say that I think any woman that goes against the grain and seeks a VBAC is a courageous woman :HH: Not because it's a scary thing to attempt and do! But because there is very little support for VBACing women and many hurdles to overcome emotionally. You are an inspiration to thousands of women wanting the same thing.

[zanacal]

Thanks DM - I hope the hospital I use this time is as good as the last one, but with them training their staff in aromatherapy that's a good indication that they're supportive of natural birthing where possible. To be honest, I think most maternity units in the UK are but they're extremely short staffed and pulled in different directions a lot of the time. I don't envy being in their position! We're not that close to the hospital - probably around 40 minutes and we'll need to sort out childcare before we set off. Eek!

I'm sorry you feel so rubbish Inglewood - do your work know that you're pregnant? My 12 week scan is a week on Thursday (when I'll actually be 13 weeks!) so I'm excited for that, though at the same time worried to make sure everything's ok. I feel less worried having seen bubba on screen at the beginning of this week though! When is your next scan?

Mocha, that sounds awful! ELP's suggestion about the coughing forcing the blood out sounds quite possible and I have had days when I've had loads of yellow cm too. Get well soon x

I set my alarm for every 2 hours during the night to make sure my bladder didn't get too full - but apparently I wake around every 1.5 hours anyway!!

[DoulaMama]

Mocha, if your coughing alot then I would guess that the brownish cm is just old stuff literally being forced out of your body with the coughs:agree: Nothing to worry about and may not have even showed up without the cough!

DM, keep the rants coming!! I'm sure so many of us will go into the L&D rooms when time comes feeling alot more confident with what we're doing:) I'm hoping to be able to post on here from the delivery room for company as I go in alone and last time texting the family really comforted me, hope your online around mid-March:bigsmile:

I'll be here, Hunny! You just let me know if you need some support and I'll do whatever I can for you!! xoxo I'm sure there are a few people sick of the birth talk...LOL The birth junkie inside of me just can't control it sometimes!! :rofl:

[Mochagirl]

DM - don't worry - I didn't think you were telling me my mw is rubbish! :HH:

Oh, and for the record, the blood wasn't from the epi. I gushed blood at every contraction from the onset of active labour. The midwife admitted to me later she was a bit nervous about it, actually.

[DoulaMama]

DM - don't worry - I didn't think you were telling me my mw is rubbish! :HH:

Oh, and for the record, the blood wasn't from the epi. I gushed blood at every contraction from the onset of active labour. The midwife admitted to me later she was a bit nervous about it, actually.

TBH I would have been nervous too!! Hmmmm...wonder if there was a partial plancental abruption which is why he had breathing issues for a bit. Did you gave sharp abdominal pain(if you recall)?

[Mochagirl]

Hmmm...don't remember. This is likely unrelated, but when he was born the mw discovered a full, tight knot in his cord. She'd never seen anything like it after a healthy birth. I even took a picture of it it was so freaky.

[DoulaMama]

Thanks DM - I hope the hospital I use this time is as good as the last one, but with them training their staff in aromatherapy that's a good indication that they're supportive of natural birthing where possible. To be honest, I think most maternity units in the UK are but they're extremely short staffed and pulled in different directions a lot of the time. I don't envy being in their position! We're not that close to the hospital - probably around 40 minutes and we'll need to sort out childcare before we set off. Eek!

I'm sorry you feel so rubbish Inglewood - do your work know that you're pregnant? My 12 week scan is a week on Thursday (when I'll actually be 13 weeks!) so I'm excited for that, though at the same time worried to make sure everything's ok. I feel less worried having seen bubba on screen at the beginning of this week though! When is your next scan?

Mocha, that sounds awful! ELP's suggestion about the coughing forcing the blood out sounds quite possible and I have had days when I've had loads of yellow cm too. Get well soon x

I set my alarm for every 2 hours during the night to make sure my bladder didn't get too full - but apparently I wake around every 1.5 hours anyway!!

Yay for being up every 1.5hrs... :( it's the same story here:( I feel your pain, Z. So no issues last night?

Oh and you're right- the day that any of our hospitals introduces aromatherapy to the birthing rooms...Pigs will fly;) I'd say you have a really great hospital and hopefully they'll respect your wishes! 40 minutes...that's a ways to go but if you get to the hospital too early for your comfort (and you have the funds)you could always rent a hotel room real close by and go in when you feel ready.

[DoulaMama]

Hmmm...don't remember. This is likely unrelated, but when he was born the mw discovered a full, tight knot in his cord. She'd never seen anything like it after a healthy birth. I even took a picture of it it was so freaky.

Wow! Well that could have contributed to the breathing issues. Although the Wharton's Jelly(thick jelly in the cord that allows the cord to be compressed without the arteries being "cut-off" so to speak) should help, it can sometimes be a very tight knot and baby can have issues. It sounds like there were a few things going on! I'm so positive that this birth will be straight forward and easier!! xoxo

[atomic sagebrush]

MomtoRJA from IG also had a true knot in her daughter's cord and had a totally normal pg and birth.

[Inglewood]

I admire u too Mocha having the VBAC. I've had 2 c-sections and wouldn't like to attempt VBAC with the twins! My midwife did suggest I try at my book in , but now it's twins they have recommended a section. Which I agree with, too scared to have a VBAC x2!

[Inglewood]

I'm sorry you feel so rubbish Inglewood - do your work know that you're pregnant? My 12 week scan is a week on Thursday (when I'll actually be 13 weeks!) so I'm excited for that, though at the same time worried to make sure everything's ok. I feel less worried having seen bubba on screen at the beginning of this week though! When is your next scan?

Sure everything will be fine! 13wks will be a great nub time! will u ask for a nub shot?? My work know I am pg and are being great, but nightshift is tough on my body the best of times..... my next scan is a wk on tues.

[Mochagirl]

Inglewood - I don't think I'd want to try a VBAC2 with twins, either!

[zanacal]

That'll be a good week for scans then Inglewood :D I will get some photos from the scan (and of course I'll be glued to the screen!) but I'm not going to specifically ask for a nub shot. I'm hoping I don't get a good nub shot because I don't want to start placing too much on something so unreliable - but if I get one I will post it rather than obsess over it by myself! It'll only be a month until we know for sure so that will make it easier!!

[Mochagirl]

MomtoRJA from IG also had a true knot in her daughter's cord and had a totally normal pg and birth.

Really? I remember MomtoRJA well from my IG days....

I sure hope there are no similar complications this time around! There was a lot about my twin pregnancy I didn't find out until my midwife for ds3 showed me the pathology report from that birth. Apparently ds1, who was my smaller twin, had an acute infection in his sac, and also had some very rare condition where he was missing the outer protective layer of his umbilical cord for the last inch or so. He also had a far from ideal attachment to the placenta - ds2 was getting all the resources. The doctors never told me about any of this. DS1 was born with laryngomalacia (a incompletely formed larynx) and resulting breathing problems and had to spend his first night in NICU + had no suck reflex and I had to syringe/tube feed him breast milk for his first 6 weeks before finally getting him on the breast....but thankfully other than that he was fine and today is one of the cleverest little monkeys I've ever known. All's well that ends well.

[zanacal]

Argh - what button is it that I sometimes press which deletes everything I just wrote?! So annoying!

Mocha - you were amazing to stick with breastfeeding the twins, they are so lucky to have you for their mummy!

I was up at 1.30am in the bath! I woke needing a wee and had the same problem as a couple of nights ago even though it had been less than 2 hours since I last went! I tried the knee/chest position but it wasn't helping so I ran a bath and led as flat as I could. To begin with I think I weed a bit in the bath (nice eh?!) then I just led there deep breathing with tears running down my cheeks while my bladder seemed to fill to impossible levels and when I thought I might go pop I got out and sat on the toilet and luckily managed to go. I'm going to have to stop having a drink at bedtime - I only have one to take my pre-natal and I only take that at bedtime because I don't want it to make me feel sick during the evening. I think feeling sick is the preference here! I hope this stage passes quickly.

[zanacal]

I started a November thread:

http://genderdreaming.com/forum/showthread.php?6287-November-Chit-Chat