Our Birth Story: A natural VBAC at 41 weeks, 1 day

Our birth story with Amelia really began with the birth of her big brother Grant.  As some of you know, we had intended on having a natural hypnobirth with Grant but because of his being frank breech we had a c-section at 39 weeks.  I knew before he was even born that I wanted a natural VBAC with our next and that is exactly what we had with Amelia.  If you didn't have the chance to read more about our attempts to turn Grant and his birth story you can read that here.

For me this birth was exactly what I wanted and needed.   It was healing and empowering, beautiful and enlightening.  I had heard from women in my shoes and with similar experiences that there was no greater feeling than birthing your baby the way it was intended and I wanted that experience more than I can even put into words.

How it began:
Leading up to labor and delivery, I had what I would call an active uterus. It was nothing for me to have a couple days in a row where my Braxton Hick's (BH's) were like clockwork anywhere between 5-7 minutes apart and then have them taper off a bit and have them every 20 minutes or so.  Even with all that action, I never dilated beyond 1 cm at any of my appointments.   

At 40 weeks, 2 days I lost my mucous plug.  I finally felt like things were progressing in the right direction and I had some indication that my body was beginning to do what it was made to do.  The next couple of days my BH's continued as normal but occasionally I had some mild cramping and back aches associated with them.  It wasn't until I was sleeping Wednesday night (40 weeks, 6 days) that I had contractions that actually woke me up because of the cramping and back pain associated with each wave.  Still they were nothing regular or unbearable so I went back to sleep comfortably. 

The next morning at 41 weeks I woke up as normal and went to work.  I was still having what I would now deem as "real" contractions every 10-20 minutes but never focused on them too much.  I knew that I and my body would know when it was time to dial in and really focus on how it was all making me feel and to leave work if need be.  Well, I made it through the day with no problem and no change and headed to my 41 week appointment.  I was at 2 cm and 70% effaced.  She stripped my membranes and off I went.  Dr. Dennis had us schedule a biophysical profile (BPP) for the next day just to check on Amelia and make sure we were still safe to go to at least 42 weeks if needed but we both felt confident that wouldn't be the case. 

Labor at home:
By the end of the day my contractions still were not regular but they were more uncomfortable.  I attributed some of that to stripping my membranes.  I gave Kamala (our doula) my update before bed and put my relaxation music on knowing that even at this point with irregular (6-11 minutes apart) but uncomfortable, not painful contractions I would need help relaxing between them so I could get some sleep.

The music worked wonderfully and I was able to doze easily between contractions that by 11 pm were now regular and coming every 10-11 minutes. This same trend of 10-11 minutes continued all night and though I didn't time them all night I would periodically do so to make sure they weren't getting closer because everytime I had one it would wake me and I had to actively breath through them.  I was pretty tired going into Friday morning.  Once I woke and got moving, they became somewhat irregular depending on what I was doing so I honestly wrote it off again as noting.  As the day continued they settled in to about 6-9 minutes apart and lasting anywhere from 45 secs if I was moving to 1 min 15 secs if sitting still.

We still went in for our BPP and she scored 6/8 because she was being lazy and didn't want to move so they sent me to labor and delivery to do a non stress test (NST).  I was a little frustrated at this point because she was moving like crazy leading up to the BPP and I thought the NST was a waste of our time.  Well she was looking great on the monitor during the NST and they were just about to let me go when I felt a pretty big contraction and gush.  My water broke at 11:45 am.  My contractions were about 5-6 minutes apart at that point and I was still at 2 cm but 80-90% effaced.  That is when reality set in that what I had been feeling over the last 24 hours were indeed "real" contractions although like I mentioned they weren't always regular but different than my very active Braxton Hick's.

Labor at the hospital:
After admission to the hospital, we got settled in.  Matt got the call to leave work, my mom had been with me all along, and Kamala came shortly after.  I was hooked up to a hep lock and not confined to having an IV the entire time.  I had my next vaginal check at around 4 pm and I was at a 4 cm and still about same effaced.  My biggest fear with my water breaking at the hospital and being admitted right away at only 2 cm was that we had a very long road ahead of us and I know I would be much more comfortable at home.  I am happy to say that things progressed rather quickly and it was perfectly ok laboring at the hospital in my case.  I was unhooked from the baby/contraction monitor at anytime I wanted.  I labored in the tub, on a birth ball, on a birth stool, in bed, on my hands and knees.  Basically whatever position felt best for me, body and baby at the time that is what we did.   

After my check at 4 pm my contractions began coming very close together.  I was lucky if I was getting a 1 to 1 1/2  minute break between them.  I was feeling pretty run down and tired.  The nurse came in at 6:50 pm and I asked when Dr. Dennis would be in for another check.  She told me 8 and asked if I wanted her to come in sooner.  I knew if I said yes and I was only at say a 6 I would feel let down but if I were further it would give me a boost of confidence.  I took my chances and asked the nurse to have Dr. Dennis come in and check me.  Well I am glad she did because I was then at 8 cm.   That of course explains the intense contractions I had been having.  After another check at 8:00, I was at 9-10 cm with a slight amount of cervix "between 9 and 12 o'clock that wasn't fully effaced."  The order was given to prep the room and I was given the go ahead to continue to gently breath her down and work with my body.  I was feeling the urge to bare down during contractions at this point, not labor pushes just pushing to get her further down the birth path. 

Delivery:
We were doing well, I was at a full 10 and fully effaced but at about 9 pm we were noticing some dips in her heart rate with each contraction.  Dr. Dennis let me continue to breath Amelia down and push on my own until 9:30 and then she decided the dips were getting too big and we needed to work a bit harder to get her out.  I began pushing and she tolerated well for a little bit but her heart rate began taking some bigger dips (as low at 70 bpm at some points and not having enough time to recover because my contractions were coming so quickly).  They decided to give me oxygen in between contractions to help get her heart rate up and Dr. Dennis was also massaging her head in between contractions.

After some hard work of pushing for about 30-40 minutes her head emerged but her shoulder was stuck so that took another push or two and some help from Dr. Dennis to deliver the rest of her.  

After Delivery:
Amelia arrived into this world a little shell shocked and slightly distressed.  Dr. Dennis had to unloop a single wrap of the cord from around her neck.  She respected our wishes for delaying the clamping of her umbilical cord and was giving her a good rub down then brought her to my tummy all the while leaving her cord in tact.  She still wasn't responding the way we had hoped so Dr. Dennis made the call to cut her cord (which had stopped pulsating already) so the nurses could do some quick work on her.  In less than 5 minutes, she was back in our arms and left completely undisturbed until we were ready.   

I delivered the placenta and Dr. Dennis repaired a 2nd degree tear I experienced.  All the while we were allowed to nurse at our leisure (she latched on like a pro from the beginning), bond, cuddle, take pictures.  It was truly amazing.  Overall, Amelia's APGAR scores were 6 and 8.  I experienced some post partum hemorrhaging that they first used pitocin to try to slow down which didn't work so they had to give me an injection methergine which did the trick.

Amelia's official stats were as follows
Birthday: April 26, 2013
Weight:  9 lbs 0 oz
Length:  20"
Head Circumference:  35.5 cm   

She is actually considered "large" for her gestational age (which I found surprising because she was born at 41 weeks, 1 day afterall) so we had to do 2 blood sugar checks for diabetes before 2 of her feedings.  She tested just fine so there are no further concerns there.

Thus far at 2 days old she is doing amazingly well.  I have been having to wake her to feed her but she is very alert when she is awake.  Eyes wide open looking around and she already has a little personality.  Grant is so in love with her and so attentive.  If she cries, he is immediately concerned and wants so badly for her to play.  We are very much looking forward to the time ahead and we are continually reminded how blessed we are.

Thank you to all of our family and friends for your thoughts and prayers.       

Introducing...

Amelia Grace Fisher

  
Yesterday April 26, 2013 at 41 weeks 1 day at 10:07 pm we welcomed our beautiful baby girl via a natural VBAC.

She weighed 9 lbs & 0 oz and was 20 inches long.

She is the most beautiful little girl we have ever laid eyes on and the three of us love her so much!

Stay tuned for many more pictures and our beautiful birth story. 

41 Weeks

How Far Along:  41 Weeks

Baby's Size:  Jack Fruit Average size: 18.9-20.9 inches, 6.2-9.2 lbs (Another source says baby weighs about 6-9 lbs and could be approximately 19-22 inches head to toe.)

Total Weight Gain:
Home scale: 1.8 lbs this week bringing me to 31.5 lbs total
Doctor’s scale: 33 lbs at our 41 week appointment today (1 lb this week)
Weight gained with Grant at this point:  Unknown, he was born and 2 weeks old.  Weight gain at 39 weeks was 42 lbs

Maternity Clothes:  Is there really any other choice at this point? 

Baby's Movement:  It seems she has settled down a little.  She is still active but the movements aren't as big or sharp.

Food Cravings:  A tuna salad sub?!?  I wanted a sub the other day and saw tuna on the menu and had to have it.  It was delicious.  Apples and peanut butter, pineapple, ice cream. 

Food Aversions:  No real aversions but my appetite has diminished slightly.  I am not starving all of the time. 

Sleep:  Sleeping great and 1-2 potty breaks at night (with the exception of a restless night's sleep on Tuesday night)

Symptoms:  I haven't mentioned it lately but reflux is really ticking me off these days :)  Lost my mucous plug on Saturday at 40 weeks 2 days.  In the last 24 hours I have been having cramping and back pain associated with contractions but nothing unbearable or close enough together... Just more "real" than my previously very regular but not at all painful braxton hicks.  I am still wearing my wedding rings and there has been no sign of the swelling I experienced during week 37. 

Best Moment(s) This Week:  Library date with Grant, pedicure with my mom, reflexology/massage appointment to help things move along hopefully... I'd say it's been a great week!

What I Miss:  Not being asked by every person I encounter why I am still pregnant.    

What I Am Looking Forward To:  Beside meeting this little girl who is making it clear we are on her schedule already?!? Nothing!  We are beyond excited. 

What's Different This Time:  Grant was now 2 weeks old!  

Appointment Update:  Today's appointment went great.  It was exactly the boost I needed.  Baby's heartbeat was 128 bpm again and belly was still measuring nicely.  I am a full 2 cm dilated and 70% effaced.  Dr. Dennis was very happy with the progress and said she has no doubt I will go into labor on my own.  She stirred things up a little by stripping my membranes as well.  We are going to do a biophysical profile (BPP) tomorrow just to check amniotic fluid levels, breathing, movement, and muscle tone.  I have no doubt she will pass with flying colors.  I am also happy that Dr. Dennis will be on call beginning Friday at 7 am through the weekend so it seems like a good weekend to have a baby to us and she agrees! 

Next Appointment:
April 26th - Biophysical Profile

40 Weeks

Will there be a 41?!? or even a 42?

How Far Along:  40 Weeks and entering my 10th month of pregnancy... never thought we'd make it this far!

Fun Fact:  Studies have shown that about 70% of apparent post term pregnancies (>42 weeks) aren't post term at all.  They are only believed to be late because of miscalculation of the time of conception.

I don't think people realize how discouraging it is when the first words out of their mouth when they see you (and you haven't even hit your guess date) are "you still haven't had that baby" like we are some phenomenon and no one has ever gone past their due date.  I guess in today's society and the age of elective inductions and cesareans (when not medically necessary) that is the way of thinking.  If you didn't recently see a link on my facebook page to this story about a study that was done on children who were born electively before 39 weeks click Here to check it out.  Or another article about how estimated due dates (EDD) are often miscalcuted based on a 28 day lunar month when in all actuality a lunar month is 29.53 days click Here.  And that is my soap box rant for the day! :) 

Baby's Size:  Jack Fruit Average size: 18.9-20.9 inches, 6.2-9.2 lbs (Another source says baby weighs about 7 1/2 lbs and could be approximately 19-22 inches head to toe.)

My prediction is and has been all along that baby will be a solid 8-9 lbs.  Grant was 7 lbs 15 oz at 39 weeks and I was 8 1/2 lbs when I was born. 

Total Weight Gain:
Home scale:  1.1 lbs this week bringing me to 29.7 lbs total
Doctor’s scale: 32 lbs at our 40 week appointment today (no weight gain according to her scale)
Weight gained with Grant at this point:  Unknown, he was already born and a week old.  Final weigh tally at 39 weeks... 42 lbs

Maternity Clothes:  I am so sick of my maternity wardrobe options!   

Baby's Movement:   Rolls and jabs and and knees and elbows... oh my!

Food Cravings:  Ice cream, sweets, salads, fish... still about the same.  Although I wouldn't say I am starving like I had been.

Food Aversions:  None   

Sleep:  Like a champ except for my 1-2 nightly potty breaks.   

Symptoms:  My energy levels have been like I am back in my 2nd trimester (with the exception of one day this week).  Discomfort in my ribs is back.  I have still been sweating like a pig at night.  Braxton hick's have continued and I would say they are stronger and bigger now... not uncomfortable or painful though.  Lower back achiness has continued and menstrual like cramping has increased along with pressure.  I would say all signs are pointing towards go any time now. 

Some natural remedies we've by trying to coax things along:  Eggplant parmesan, pineapple, red raspberry leaf tea, evening primrose oil, walking, hip circles and "down baby down"... among others.  Bottom line if she isn't ready and it isn't time then nothing natural is going to help either.   

Best Moment(s) This Week:  Tons of energy and more organization and cleaning.  A quiet dinner with Matt.  Spending some time with my mom. 

What I Miss:  Honestly, nothing at this point.  I know we are so close to meeting this little girl and this whole pregnancy experience is almost over again so I am soaking up every moment.   

What I Am Looking Forward To:  Meeting our little nugget and finally choosing a name... no, we still don't have one or even 2 that we have narrowed it down to!  She is still "baby" or "baby girl" or "baby sister" or as Grant has taken to calling her when you ask her name "D."  

What's Different This Time:  Still being pregnant at 40 weeks 

Appointment Update:  Baby's heartbeat was 128 bpm ("closer to what a newborn's heartbeat is") and my belly was measuring right on at 40 cm.  During my cervical check everything is still the same... 1 cm or a fingertip and otherwise closed up pretty tight.  Dr. Dennis feels confident she will come before 42 weeks on her own and is completely fine with sitting back and letting things happen.  I scheduled my 41 week appointment and she said sometime between 41 and 42 weeks we would schedule a non-stress test to check on baby (amniotic fluid, placenta, movement, etc.) and see how we feel about going slightly beyond 42 weeks if need be. 

Next Appointment:
April 25th - 41 week appointment

39 Weeks

This is the very last picture I have of my Grant bump.  It was taken the night before our c-section

How Far Along: 39 Weeks

Baby's Size:  Watermelon Average size: 18.9-20.9 inches, 6.2-9.2 lbs (Another source says baby weighs about 8 lbs and is approximately 21 inches head to toe.)

Total Weight Gain:
Home scale: 1 lb this week bringing me to 28.6 lbs total
Doctor’s scale: 32 lbs at our 39 week appointment today
Weight gained with Grant at this point:  42.2 lbs (this will be the last weight comparison I have for Grant as he was born at exactly 39 weeks)

Maternity Clothes:  More than ever.  Depending on what clothing option I choose I either get "you are so tiny" comments or "wow that shirt makes you look big" (which I know some of them do make me look huge!)  I am still able to wear my work polos though!     

Baby's Movement:   She is still a busy little girl.  I have still been feeling some sharp kicks in my ribs but I am thinking maybe she really has dropped a little because the burning sensation and extreme discomfort in my ribs has let up a little. 

Food Cravings:  Still salads, my almost nightly bowl of cereal, fish, and apples and peanut butter.

Food Aversions:  I don't think I could turn down many food options. 

Sleep:  Waking 2-3 times per night with at least 1-2 bathroom breaks. 

Symptoms:  Sweating like a pig at night.  My cankles have disappeared.  Not sure what it was about those 4-5 days last week when they were so terrible but they are almost completely normal.  I am even wearing my wedding ring on a daily basis with no problem. 

Braxton hick's have continued and some days they are stronger than others... Nothing painful.  Still having occasional period like cramps, occasional achy back and more feelings of pressure. 

I will say that I am absolutely not stressed or nervous about labor what so ever.  We are definitely ready to meet this little girl and I trust in my body completely and know that everything will fall into place.  I am trying not to get antsy about being 39 weeks.  Everything has fallen into place beautifully thus far and we are excited for this upcoming new journey.

Best Moment(s) This Week:  My mom is here and we are so happy she made it in time! 

We also got some more organization done around the house.  Because of the way our house is configured, there is no mud area when you walk into our kitchen from the garage (which is where the majority of traffic flows).  Our solution... Matt built us some cubbies in garage to hang coats, backpacks, shoes, etc.  I LOVE having a handy husband!  I am very excited about this and cutting down on the clutter in the kitchen! 

And yes... we have an American flag painted on the wall in our garage by the previous owner :)

What I Miss:  Overall I consider myself extremely lucky.  I could maybe go for a glass of wine but I am in no hurry to evict this little girl.  I definitely don't feel huge and miserable nor do I feel like I could have this baby at any moment.  I am hanging in there very well.  Work is still a breeze.  I still feel pretty energized in the afternoons.  I really can't complain! 

What I Am Looking Forward To:  Date night with Matt tomorrow.  April 22nd will be 7 years since we met so we are going to celebrate a little early. 

I think I am finally going to cook and freeze some meals this weekend.  I have been lagging in that department because my mom has been so adamant about taking care of the cooking while she is here but it would be nice to have some meals stashed in the freeze for after she leaves.  She has offered to help make some to freeze and put away as well!

What's Different This Time:  I lost my mucous plug with Grant at 38 weeks 5 days.  Thus far with baby girl there has been no sign of my mucous plug but that doesn't mean maybe I missed seeing that I lost it somewhere along the way.

And the biggest difference is that at exactly 39 weeks we were meeting Grant at 7:26 am.   

Appointment update:  Baby's heartbeat was 132 bpm and my belly was measuring exactly 39 cm.  Not sure if last weeks measurement of staying 37 cm was a fluke or just because it was a different doctor measuring me.  I am still at 1 cm so no progress there.  Dr. Dennis and I had a discussion about what ifs and whether I would be discouraged from being allowed to go to 42 weeks if need be (because baby may get "too big" for a VBAC).  She has absolutely no issues with allowing me to do so if we do end up needing that much time.  Fingers crossed we won't but I am just glad that we are not being put on a deadline of before at least 42 weeks. 

Next Appointment:
April 18th - 40 week appointment

38 Weeks

Holy smokes!  This is getting very real.  I think it is finally hitting us that we could literally be meeting her any day now.  Get your vote in for when you think she will arrive!  I had a feeling all along that she may be early but now I am obviously second guessing that...   

How Far Along: 38 Weeks, 1 Day

Baby's Size:  Pumpkin Average size: 18.9-20.9 inches, 6.2-9.2 lbs (Another source says baby weighs about 7 lbs and is approximately 21 inches head to toe.)
Baby may have an inch or so of hair already

Total Weight Gain:
Home scale:  3.2 lbs this week (I don't know how much of this is from my appetite that has returned or from the water retention aka cankles I am sporting most days) bringing me to 27.6 lbs total
Doctor’s scale: 29 lbs at our 38 week appointment today
Weight gained with Grant at this point:  41.2 lbs

Maternity Clothes:  You betcha! 

Baby's Movement:  Still very active.  I thought she would have slowed down by now.   

Food Cravings:  Everything in sight!  I am definitely feeling much better and have my appetite back. 

Food Aversions:  Turn down food?  Yeah right!

Sleep:  I am back to sleeping great... thank goodness!  I am still up at about 3 or 4 for a bathroom break then right back to sleep.   

Symptoms:  The biggest change this week has been the appearance of major CANKLES!  It doesn't take all day for them to appear.  Instead they are raring and ready to go by late morning.  I have been getting a lot of food massages.  They were very apparent Saturday through Tuesday but seemed to have calmed down a little by Wednesday and Thursday.   

The picture really doesn't do them justice

Overall, I am feeling great though.  I have been having more twinges of pressure and cramps and achey middle back.  I even woke up twice one night this week because the contractions I had were slightly painful (nothing regular and able to go right back to sleep).  My appetite is back after being sick.  I was able to stuff myself on Easter.  I have noticed an increase in spider veins but feel very lucky that yet again with this pregnancy I have had no varicose veins and no stretch marks.  I am feeling energized even at the end of my days. 

Best Moment(s) This Week:  Mommy and Grant day on Good Friday at the Appleton Children's museum and lunch.  Easter... click here to check out a post about those activities if you haven't already. 

We finished up our progression maternity pictures with Jamie last weekend and took some family shots.  We were going to wait one more week but decided to do them last weekend to be on the safe side.

I also went to a group meeting called "Fond du Lac Birth Connections" at Blossom's Pregnancy Boutique (our doula, Kamala owns the store) this week.  It was extremely refreshing to be around a group of women some of which have experienced their share of battles and heartache in the births of their children and for subsequent births they chose to advocate for themselves to ensure they had the birth of their dreams.  I know I will soon have a similar story to share and it is awe inspiring to hear the true power and feeling a birth such as this gives to the women who have experienced it.   

What I Miss:  Being comfortable and having my body as my own.  I know I am going to miss her in there so I am still trying to enjoy every hiccup, roll, poke, jab and even contraction.   

What I Am Looking Forward To:  My mom's arrival on Wednesday and of course meeting this little girl! 

What's Different This Time:  Our c-section was scheduled and we knew the date that we were going to meet Grant (unless he would've have chosen to come earlier).  Again and I know I have said this already... the surprise and suspense is killing me!  We are so excited!  

Appointment update:  Baby girl's heartbeat was thumping away at 137 bpm.  My uterus measured the same as last week (37 cm) to which the doc (Dr. Peschong because Dr. Dennis is out of town) asked if it felt like she has dropped.  I told her no she is still very much all up in my ribs.  I am still sitting at 1 cm with no further dilation.  It just doesn't look like this bun is close to being done.  We'll see what next week brings...

Next Appointment:
April 11th - 39 week appointment

37 Weeks

A bare belly picture... check out those veins! :)

I put a poll up for fun... Do you think she will be a little early?  Right on time?  Or a little late?  Our actual guess date is April 18th.  Get your guess in! 

How Far Along: 37 Weeks and full term!

Baby's Size:  Winter Melon Average size: 18.9-20.9 inches, 6.2-9.2 lbs (Another source says baby weighs about 6 1/2 lbs and is approximately 20 inches head to toe.)

Total Weight Gain:
Home scale:  Down 2.3 lbs this week (As you'll see below... I haven't been feeling too well this week.) bringing me to 24.4 lbs total   
Doctor’s scale:  26 lbs at our 37 week appointment today (Down 3 lbs according to doc's scale)
Weight gained with Grant at this point: 39 lbs

Maternity Clothes:  Yes, I have even expanded into Matt's t-shirt wardrobe more and more.   

Baby's Movement:  She seems to be more active at night than during the day lately.

Food Cravings:  None really.  I honestly have had a rather minimal appetite this week.  More on that below...

Food Aversions:  Ribs... specifically on the grill at home.  They are usually delicious and I love them but still don't have the stomach for most grilled food.  Doesn't help that they came back up on Sunday night either.   

Sleep:  I am still falling asleep on my left side but usually wake up on my right side or back.  I have been sleeping pretty good (with the exception of Sunday night) and woken up a couple times this week to pee at 3-4. 

Symptoms:  It turned into an eventful Sunday night/Monday.  I was feeling off all weekend and when Sunday rolled around I was really nauseous.  Well, I ended up throwing up Sunday night and then was up most of the night Sunday with stomach cramps and diarrhea.  Monday morning rolled around and right before walking out the door for work I threw up again.  I made it into work knowing I had some loose ends to tie up if this was "it" knowing that some women have diarrhea to clean out their body's before labor.  Meanwhile I started timing contractions.  They were very consistent and 4-5 mins apart.  During all of this I was in contact with our doula to fill her in and get her thoughts.  I continued my morning not very easily because I still felt sick as a dog and had diarrhea.  We decided that with contractions still regular and even closer together (5 hours later) and the way I was feeling (nauseous, abdominal cramps, regular contractions) it was time to call the doc.  I went in at about 12:30 on Monday afternoon to be monitored and see if it was time.  I was only slightly dilated (1 cm) and I made it very clear that I wanted to go back home and labor at home even if they did determine I was in labor because progress was so minimal.  My contractions were still very regular but Dr. Dennis agreed that I would be more comfortable at home since I was showing no signs of progress.  She didn't seem too confident it was time because when we were leaving she said see you at your appointment on Thursday.  Well, she was right.  All I needed was some rest, a little food (the first I had in 24 hours), and some fluids and everything calmed back down to normal as far as contractions go.  Unfortunately the nausea and diarrhea have continued (It hasn't been a fun week!) and it seems I have a bad bug, hence the weight loss.

This is the first week that I am feeling very pregnant and just blah.  I am sure it is because I have been sick but I am exhausted and utterly worn out.  I even had to sit down at work for the first time while doing an analysis this week.

A new thing this week is Braxton hicks at night (I am sure it was happening previously but they sometimes wake me now or it is inevitable that when I get up to use the bathroom I have a couple before I drift off back to sleep). 

Best Moment(s) This Week:  Our to-do list is officially done.  I am glad we kicked it in high gear this weekend because after our trial run on Monday we know we are ready whenever she is.  Matt said he even has his baby bag ready for work which entailed making it easier for him to pack up his tools and hit the road asap if need be because he has been working in Milwaukee.  He's back in Fond du Lac working hopefully until baby comes though!  Fingers crossed!   

What I Miss:  My energy (the little bit I did have) really took a nose dive this week.  Crossing my legs.  I know it isn't good for circulation and what not but I still enjoy crossing my legs occasionally and that is nearly impossible and uncomfortable now.  Down baby down!   

What I Am Looking Forward To:  Mommy and Grant day tomorrow at the Appleton Children's Museum and a lunch date and celebrating and enjoying Easter.  

What's Different This Time:  We had our ECV with Grant at 37 weeks to try to turn him... no ECV this time!  Baby is head down and ready!  

Appointment update:  Most exciting of all today we got another glimpse of our baby girl! 

Check out those lips!

They guesstimate her size at 6 lbs 13 oz and 58th percentile or right on track.  Dr. Dennis has absolutely no concerns about her being too big for me to have a successful VBAC.  Her heartbeat was 136.  There has been no additional dilation since Monday.  I am still at 1 cm and no effacement.  We discussed at length how I have been feeling and the weight loss.  She said if the diarrhea continues until Saturday we will do some stool tests to rule out something bacterial or a parasite.  We did run another urine culture because my urine has become a very dark amber color but that could be because I am dehydrated (even though I have been doing my best to stay hydrated). 

Next Appointment:
April 5th - 38 week appointment

36 Weeks



Grant wanted to be in the picture with mommy :)

Is it just me or can you see more of that baby weight in my face with Grant than with her?  It could almost 10 extra lbs I was packing with Grant at this same time!

How Far Along: 36 Weeks, 1 Day

Baby's Size:  Honeydew Average size: 17.2-18.7 inches, 4.2-5.8 lbs (Another source says baby weighs about 6 lbs and is slightly more than 20 inches head to toe.)

Total Weight Gain:
Home scale: 0.6 lbs this week bringing me to 26.7 lbs total (I am a little surprised by the small number this week!)      
Doctor’s scale:  29 lbs at our 36 week appointment yesterday
Weight gained with Grant at this point: 37 lbs

Maternity Clothes:  Yes and I have had to expand.  Some of the shirts that I viewed as "too big" or "too frumpy" fit just right now... 

Baby's Movement:  She is still very active but I can tell she is getting a little squished in there.  Her movements have become smaller, rolling type movements versus the bigger, sharper pokes and jabs.   
Food Cravings:  I still enjoy my nightly bowl of cereal, sweets (I have been working very hard to cut back), and I would love a soda every day but abstain.  Originally, we were going to host Easter this year.  I learned it could be a little dangerous having a very pregnant lady planning and hosting.  Every recipe I saw I wanted to have so it's probably a good thing Matt's grandma is going to do it instead!

Food Aversions:  Chinese... for awhile I had been craving it and had gone to a buffet that was delicious.  Well, we tried the same place again and it wasn't nearly as good as the first time.  The food was mostly cold and lacking flavor.  Needless to say... we won't be going back there for awhile. 

Sleep:  Ah... the elusive sleep.  I have still been sleeping only so so.  I have been waking on average 2-3 times per night on most nights.  Usually, I don't even need to pee but I get up anyway and go because I am awake and having a hard time getting back to sleep.  I have found the last couple nights that if I make myself stay awake until 10 then I haven't been waking but that is so late! :)   

Symptoms:  I have been having a lot of Braxton Hick's.  There are even times when I was timing and they were an average of 5 minutes apart and lasting about 45 seconds to 1 min 15 secs for over 3 hours.  I am always congested and my sense of smell is reduced when it is normally the opposite in pregnant women.  More pressure (not a lot) and more potty breaks.  My rings are getting a little snug and there have been a couple mornings I can't get them on.  Usually an hour or so later they slide on without a problem though and come off at the end of the day without a problem.   

Best Moment(s) This Week:  Marking more items off the to do list... Only a couple left that aren't really necessary just the typical nesting over the top type cleaning.  For instance, all the fans have been washed/dusted in the house, all the kitchen cabinets have been washed, our refrigerator and freezer are spotless, walls have been washed... like I said just a little over the top with some of those. 

What I Miss:  Sleep and being able to get comfortable and not being utterly exhausted by chasing Grant around.  I can hardly keep up.    

What I Am Looking Forward To:  Finishing that to do list...  I am giving us a deadline of this weekend.  An ultrasound next week and getting a last minute glimpse of baby girl before we meet her!

What's Different This Time:  I am getting so excited about the surprise of meeting her when she is ready.  It is a completely different experience than knowing exactly when we will meet her like we unfortunately did with Grant.  I think about the excitement of calling family to let them know we are on our way to the hospital and then calling again when she is actually here.    

Appointment update:  Our appointment went great yesterday.  My bump is measuring right on track.  Dr. Dennis specifically said she thinks we are dealing with a pretty average size baby.  Group B Strep came back negative, blood pressure was perfect, urine clean and Dr. Dennis was surprised by the lack of swelling in my ankles.   Her heartbeat clocked in at 135 bpm.  So far I am not dilated at all nor have I started to efface which is perfectly ok.  I am only 36 weeks and anxious to meet her but it will happen in her time.  We have an ultrasound next week before my appointment to check in on her and get a guesstimate on her weight.  With us planning a VBAC, there could be concerns if she is on the large size but I really don't think that will be the case.  

Next Appointment:
March 28th - 37 week appointment

35 Weeks

How Far Along: 35 Weeks

Baby's Size:  Coconut Average size: 17.2-18.7 inches, 4.2-5.8 lbs (Another source says baby weighs about 5 1/2 lbs and is approximately 20 inches head to toe.)
Hearing is fully developed.

Total Weight Gain:
Home scale: 1.5 lbs this week bringing me to 26.1 lbs total
Doctor’s scale: 27 lbs at our 34 week appointment on March 7th
Weight gained with Grant at this point: 33.8 lbs

Maternity Clothes:  Yes and I even had to do a little shopping for something for Easter.  I opted for a stretchy non-maternity dress that will still fit and hopefully look nice after baby so I can get some more use out of it. 

Baby's Movement:  Yes... And she is strong!  At times it surprises me how strong the pokes and jabs are.  I have also noticed that she is getting so much bigger now that when she has the hiccups it really gives a good jolt :)   

Food Cravings:  Biscuits and sausage gravy

Food Aversions:  None I can think of

Sleep:  A little more restlessly and still waking right around the 4:00 mark for no reason.  The last two nights have been miserable.  I have been tossing and turning and just can't get comfortable and then on top of it Grant has been sick with a cough/cold so that keeps me up as well.     

Symptoms:  I have been very tired this week... like I hit a wall.  I have also been very thirsty.  It's getting a little snug getting my rings on in the mornings and some cankle action going on by the afternoons because of some swelling.  Nothing serious though.  I have also noticed I am beginning to take on a very slight waddle and feel some pressure between my legs which I never had with Grant because he was never in a good position to get low enough in my pelvis.  I will gladly take all these signs!  Oh and maybe a little TMI here but leaky boobs.  When I was sick over Christmas, my right breast leaked like a faucet for 2 days then stopped and nothing since but in the last couple of days I have noticed some leakiness starting again.     

I had a stranger this week say she would have guessed I was having a boy by how low I am carrying.  I definitely don't feel like I am carrying low based on the discomfort/burning sensation coming from my protesting ribs on a daily basis. 

Best Moment(s) This Week:  I have had 2 people ask me in the last week or so if I am "about 5 months along" to which I smile and kindly reply no... I only have about 6 weeks left to go.  A nice boost for the ego with all of this weight gain!

What I Miss:  Uninterrupted, restful sleep.  I know my body is just getting ready for baby and I have been extremely lucky up until this point so I should really not complain! 

What I Am Looking Forward To:  I've said it before and I will say it again... a name for this little girl!  People ask and I literally laugh.  We aren't even close to compromising on something and it is exhausting.  I am also on the lookout for some wall hangings for her room.  Those walls are rather bare right now. 

What's Different This Time:  No pregnancy induced carpal tunnel at night when I sleep.  When I was pregnant with Grant I would wake up at this point and my hands would be asleep or tingly.    

Next Appointment:
March 21st - 36 week appointment

34 Weeks

In case anyone missed it, I had a post earlier this week about our birth plan and journey thus far.  If you feel led to read it here or have already, it is my only hope that new moms or expecting moms use it as a spark to make sure they are educated about their births, babies, and bodies.  My choices aren't for everyone but they came after we did research and we are making informed decisions that best fit us. 

How Far Along: 34 Weeks, 1 Day  Is it really March already?!?

Baby's Size:  Butternut Squash Average size: 17.2-18.7 inches, 4.2-5.8 lbs (Another source says baby weighs about 5 lbs and could be approximately 20 inches head to toe.)
Baby can recognize and react to simple songs.

Total Weight Gain:
Home scale: 2.7 lbs this week (I give up! Holy cow!) bringing me to 24.6 lbs total
Doctor’s scale: 3 lbs this week and 27 lbs total at our 34 week appointment yesterday
Weight gained with Grant at this point:  33 lbs

Maternity Clothes:  Of course nearly all of the time now.  There are still a couple non-maternity shirts that fit comfortably though.   

Baby's Movement:  Most of her movements seem to be isolated to the left side now which makes sense since as of now her head is down with torso on the right side meaning I would feel arm/hand and leg/feet movements on the left side. 

Food Cravings:  Ummm apparently everything in sight! 

Food Aversions:  Again, I don't think I could turn food down if I wanted to.  Obviously by the looks of the scale!

Sleep:  A little more restlessly... waking several times a night for no reason.  Still not back to making a bathroom trip just waking for no reason then back to sleep.  I also always fall asleep on my left side but when I wake up I am almost always on my back.  Maybe that is why I am waking?   

Symptoms:  Lots of baby hiccups down low... good sign for position!  Feeling a little pressure/achiness between my legs but not all the time.  It comes and goes.  It is getting a little tighter putting my wedding ring on even in the mornings but my feet/legs aren't really too swollen by the end of the day.  And boy oh boy is this belly firming up and getting tight.  I have also noticed my urine is very cloudy usually until about noon or mid-day and then clears up.  This has been associated with some back pain in my kidney area.  I brought it up at my appointment yesterday and she suggested we take a urine sample because sometimes in pregnancy you can have a bladder infection and not know it.  I haven't heard back yet with the results.  I am sure it is nothing but wanted to be on the safe side.     

Best Moment(s) This Week:  I am running out of stuff to do around the house to "get ready."  That must mean we are pretty close to having it all done and me being satisfied. 

What I Miss:  Not being paranoid about sitting in the recliner and relaxing for the night.  I have done tons of research about baby position and recliners or any type of bucket seat which causes your pelvis to tilt backwards should really be a no-no at this point so I have been avoiding those seats as much as possible.  They can actually contribute to mal-presentation whether baby is breech or posterior.         

What I Am Looking Forward To:  Enjoying the next several weeks with Grant.  Nearly everything is done and now I just want to soak up as much time with him before we meet this lil' girl.  I also want to do a little cooking and make and freeze some meals for after baby.  It will help that my mom will be here and I can put her to work cooking for us as well :) 

What's Different This Time:  I don't feel as panicked as I did with Grant because it was at 34 weeks we found out he was breech which sent me into a baby turning frenzy.    

Appointment update:  Overall my appointment went great.  Baby is absolutely head down right now and her heartbeat was clocking in at 142.  My belly measured right at 34 weeks and everything was still closed up tight aka no signs of dilation.  She also did the Group B Strep swab so we will see how that comes back.  I was negative with Grant. 

Next Appointment:
March 21st - 36 week appointment  Boo... I don't want to wait 2 weeks for another appointment.

Our Birth Plan

I feel like I need to start with a disclaimer of sorts.  This post is not meant to seem judgmental. It is a reflection of how I feel and what I have learned throughout my two pregnancies and the birth of Grant.   A woman's birth is an extremely powerful and personal experience.   Most importantly, each woman has the power to shape and make it exactly how she wishes with the proper information and education.  Birth does not have to be what society makes it out to be or what a doctor tells you it has to be.  A natural birth may not be for everyone but an educated birth path is always the best option. 

I know no matter how prepared you are or I was for the birth of baby sometimes there are circumstances and baby and/or our bodies just have other plans and a birth plan goes flying out the window. However, if you know me, I am a planner. I always have been, always will be. With Grant we did everything by the book. We took a Hypnobirthing class (a method that introduces a natural, relaxed method of birth with the help of breathing techniques and visualization), took the hospital class (what a joke!), hired a doula, had a birth plan written and then at 34 weeks we found out Grant was frank breech (butt down, torso and legs straight up) and it seemed like all of our plans went out the window. I can't tell you how many people I called that day sobbing because a c-section seemed inevitable. I was told there was still plenty of time for baby to turn which of course there was and is at that point but if he didn't I knew what it meant.

We, well mainly I went into crisis mode doing endless research and calling in every person we knew for help (typical Autumn.. explore and research all options). Our Hypnobirthing instructor did two hypnosis sessions with me. Our doula came over a couple of times to try various inversion techniques. I visited the chiropractor several times so she could try the Webster Technique (an adjustment specifically for breech babies). And as a last resort we tried an external cephalic version (ECV). I say last resort because it literally was.

At 37 weeks we walked into the hospital, they got me set up in a labor and delivery room, hooked me up to a monitor, and put in an IV. It is a must that mom is prepped and ready for surgery in case something goes wrong and they need to get baby out immediately which is a possibility with an ECV. They gave me terbutaline which is used to relax the uterus and stop/slow any contractions (braxton hicks at that point) I was having. My doctor and a fellow physician then proceeded to lube up my belly and push and pull and crank on Grant. The force they were using was literally so great their hands were shaking. After several tries, they both agreed that "he was really in there and not going anywhere." My doctor talked about our options and said we could schedule a c-section for the 11th in which I proceeded to break down and sob yet again. We had to stay at the hospital, me hooked up to the monitor to keep an eye on Grant for over an hour after the procedure to make sure everything was ok. Side note: The next day I felt like I had literally been kicked and punched in the stomach. It hurt to laugh, cough, and even move. I can't imagine how poor little Grant felt in there.

We were told that sometimes baby's are breech for a reason. I also knew that baby's have been known to turn at the last minute during labor. However, we were not willing to take the risk of what going into labor could mean although there are many accounts of breech babies born naturally with no problems encountered by baby or mom. I was the person that cried when I had a c-section not because of the pain (which there was plenty of for weeks... anyone who thinks a c-section is the easy way out is a fool and I even have a high pain tolerance. No offense). I felt I had been robbed of a truly empowering and beautiful experience everyone woman who desires should be entitled to.

This time around I am fully prepared to make modifications to our birth plan as we see fit but I absolutely and utterly intend on having a natural (as in medication free), VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean). I know some people reading that sentence will laugh and say "yeah right" or "why would she ever want to do that?"  Well frankly, because I can and I will. My mother did it with both of her children. I have had several friends do the same thing and I have an amazing support network. I learned in our Hypnobirthing class and had it instilled in me very early (from my mother) that a natural birth is possible for anyone and very often best for both mom and baby.  Having a natural birth is not necessarily going to be easy and just because a woman has one doesn't mean that maybe she happened to get "lucky" with an "easy delivery" as I have heard some woman say to others who have had a natural birth.   Why do we as women have such a tendency to try to break each other down and tell horror birth stories when we should be building each other up and encouraging one another?  We are also opting for some other items in our birth plan such as delayed cord clamping, kangaroo care (immediate skin to skin contact after birth), no application of erythromycin (that goo they put on baby's eyes right away), and no hepatitis vaccine.  Unfortunately, in most hospitals these options are not the norm even though they absolutely should be.  It is what is best for baby and bonding and that should be the priority. 

Unfortunately, we as women have been led to believe many myths about what childbirth has to be which is utterly false. I highly encourage anyone (even those not planning on a natural birth) who is expecting or planning on children to read Mother's Intention: How Beliefs Shape Birth 2nd Edition as well Hypnobirthing: The Mongan Method (even if you don't take the class it has some extremely valuable unbiased, educational information in it).  Look into seeking supportive caregivers and independent childbirth educators (not hospital affiliated, they regulate what can and can't be taught and often push for medical intervention or label interventions as the norm) who view birth as a natural occurrence and not a medical condition.   Bottom line... do the research and get informed.  Don't always accept what you are told as the ultimate truth or final answer. 

Only rarely does a normal, healthy pregnancy in itself merit the use of interventions but frequently unnecessary interventions lead to complications in pregnancy and birth.

Most of all I ask that you, our friends and family keep us in your prayers as we continue this journey and I can't wait to share our natural, VBAC birth story.

33 Weeks

You can definitely tell a difference in belly sizes in this picture! 

How Far Along: 33 Weeks

Baby's Size:  Durian Fruit Average size: 17.2-18.7 inches, 4.2-5.8 lbs (Another source says baby weighs more than 4 1/2 lbs and is approximately 17-19 inches head to toe.)
Bones are hardening.

Total Weight Gain:
Home scale: 2.5 lbs this week bringing me to 21.9 lbs total
Wowza!  I have had several big weight gain weeks in a row.  I guess it shows that I have been absolutely starving this week.  Maybe she has been growing significantly too... Yikes!        
Doctor’s scale:  24 lbs at our 33 week appointment yesterday
The scales are coming together!  Only different by 2 lbs now.
Weight gained with Grant at this point: 29.4 lbs

Maternity Clothes:  Yes and I am sure glad that I don't work in a job that I need to wear nice clothes to work everyday.  It is nice wearing my same maternity jeans and getting away with wearing my work polo still.  My wardrobe is sparse when it comes to maternity and I find myself struggling to find stuff to wear out and about in the afternoons and on weekends.  I can't imagine the money I would have to invest if I had to dress up for work.  

Baby's Movement:  You betcha! And if I had to guess it seems she is spending most of her time head down still.  Dr. Dennis seemed to think so yesterday as well.    

Food Cravings:  Soda (I still limit myself to 2-3 per week), fish (Blanck's here we come tonight!... Yes, again!), candy/sweets (doesn't help with the weight!), salads, basically starving this week. 

Food Aversions:  I don't think I could turn food down even if I wanted to right now.

Sleep:  Still sleeping very well and not waking for potty trips but waking around 3:00-4:00 for no reason.   

Symptoms:  Clumsiness... when I try not to be so clutzy I think it just makes it worse.  Nesting at work.  There is so much to get done before I leave to make sure my boss isn't left high and dry.  My hair has finally slowed with how much I am losing.  Hot flashes/night sweats and boy have I been very gassy :) 

Best Moment(s) This Week:  Baby clothes are washed, car seat has been pulled out, bottles back in cuboards, breast pump out... I probably forgot some things but basically we sorted through the basement and brought all that stuff back to life and found a home for it again. 

What I Miss:  I am beginning to feel very pregnant and big.  I am not necessarily miserable but there are times when I look down and it's like "ok where did that big belly come from?"  Like it has happened all at once.  It's getting harder to bend and move and slightly more uncomfortable.   

What I Am Looking Forward To:  Seeing/hearing this baby girl more often!  I feel like it had been forever since our checkup becuase 5 weeks have passed. I am looking forward to the more frequent visits to the doc to hear that little thump thump and maybe even catching a glimpse of her via a late ulstrasound or two. 

What's Different This Time:  Maybe it is the feeling of impending chaos looming with having two children but I feel the need to have more storage and have it all be organized complete with labels.  I know... what a dork!     

Appointment update:  Our appointment went great yesterday.  Dr. Dennis and I talked more about our birth plan.  It makes me feel so good to get her reassurance at each appointment.  My belly is measuring right on track and baby girl's heartbeat was 146.  Dr. Dennis suspects by palpating my belly that baby is head down.  She said next week we will check for sure even if we have to do a quick ultrasound.  It was at my 34 week appointment with Grant that we found out we was breech. 

Next Appointment:
March 7th - 34 week appointment

32 Weeks

 

Well, I arrived at the hospital yesterday very much looking forward to my 32 week appointment only to find out it had been cancelled.  Apparently they "sent a letter in December" telling me that was the case but as I was standing there, there were 2 other women who did not receive such a letter either.  They rescheduled me for next week which means I will have an appointment at 33 weeks, 34 weeks, 36 weeks and then weekly from there.  A little ridiculous...

How Far Along:   32 Weeks, 1 Day

Baby's Size:  Squash Average size: 15.2-16.7 inches, 2.5-3.8 lbs (Another source says baby weighs more than 3 lbs and is approximately 18 inches head to toe.)
Sleeping and waking cycles are establishing.

Total Weight Gain:
Home scale: 1.4 lbs this week (yes, 1.4 yet again!) bringing me to 19.4 lbs total
Doctor’s scale:  18 lbs at our 28 week appointment on January 24th
Weight gained with Grant at this point: 28.8 lbs

Maternity Clothes:  You betcha! 

Baby's Movement:  I have been having a lot of really low tiny, tickle like movements.  It makes me wonder what body part is down there. 

Food Cravings:  Fish, fish, and more fish!  I try to limit myself to once per week but I still want it all of the time.  I have even upped my omega 3 fish oil prenatal thinking that maybe I am lacking something in my diet that is making me crave fish so much.  Fruit... pretty much of any kind.  Spinach and artichoke dip from Ala Roma... we took care of that one over the weekend. 

Food Aversions:  One of my favorite recipes, four cheese chicken fettuccine alfredo just did not taste good this week when I made it.  It also made me extremely gassy :) 

Sleep:  My undisturbed nights of sleep haven't been the case lately.  I have been waking on most nights to turn over or around 3:00-4:00 for no reason... not even potty breaks.  I don't like it.  I enjoyed my week or so of sleeping like a rock. 

Symptoms:  Nesting.  I am beginning to feel a little more tired again but still have so much I want to get done!  Reflux, rib discomfort, and oh my goodness where did these boobs come from? 

Best Moment(s) This Week:  Shopping for props for newborn pictures and basically finishing her room!  If you missed the post, click here for a glimpse. 

What I Miss:  Relaxing weekends.  It seems like right now there is so much I want to get done and not enough time to do it.  I try to run my errands and get as much done when Grant sleeps because I want to spend as much time with him as I can when he is awake.  Previously, when Grant would nap, I would sneak in a nap as well and just veg out.   

What I Am Looking Forward To:  Starting to think about what I may or may not want to pack in a hospital bag!  Yikes!  Digging out the car seat, swing, breast pump, bottles, washing clothes... the list goes on and on.  I would say I am definitely nesting! 

What's Different This Time:  I honestly find girls clothes very overwhelming. Everyone says girls are so much fun because they have better clothes. Maybe it is just the fact that I am not a girly girl and never have been. I don't accessorize my outfits even now. Going through baby clothes and looking at outfits is just exhausting. Leggings and bloomers and headbands and on and on. Grant was lucky if he had shoes that remotely matched an outfit he was wearing. Nice and simple. Jeans or khakis and a shirt to match for boys. Girls... not even close.  Unfortunately, our daughter probably won't be winning any best dressed awards anytime soon much like her mother. 
 
Next Appointment:
February 28th - 33 week appointment (my rescheduled 32 week appointment)

A Glimpse of the Nursery

Well it was a productive weekend and the nursery is done for the most part!  We are still in need of some wall art/decor but otherwise we are good to go.

Going into nursery planning I knew I wanted either paisley or damask print bedding.  I came across the pink/teal color combo and my search for bedding began.  I love this bedding!  It was even very reasonably priced.

 

After a trip to the local hardware store and working with the awesome paint guy... Tom at Kitz and Pfeil he mixed us up some custom paint colors.  We wanted pale teal and very pale pink.  Something that wouldn't completely overwhelm the room.  It's hard to tell in this picture but the wall that the crib is on is obviously the teal but the other three walls are the pale pink color. 
  

Check out the tissue paper pom poms I made in the corner.

We are using our crib, changing table, and glider all used by Grant.  We even took half of the cubes that were orginally in Grant's room and not really being used, painted them and will use them in her room.

Overall, we are pleased with how it turned out.  We wanted fun and funky without being too girly.  Now we just need a beautiful little girl to put in here!

To top it all off this weekend I even added in a couple of sewing projects by making 2 baby blankets.  One side of each blanket is the purple minky fabrix and the other sides are the two fabrics in the picture.  Nesting?  I think so!