Day 74: False Alarm

I was busy today.  I cleaned our bathroom, did the dishes, and made the beds.  J and I also ran quite a few errands.  When we were at our last store, I started experiencing consistent contractions that were just a few minutes apart.  We came home and I laid down for awhile to see if they would subside.  They kept up for about two hours afterward, sometimes lasting about a minute and getting as close as three minutes apart, but then they'd be eleven minutes apart and wouldn't last as long.  So they weren't regular, and I realized it was false labor, as after awhile, they did basically stop.  I've had a couple of contractions each hour for the last several hours, but again they're not regular and aren't increasing in frequency or duration.  So something could be starting up, but then again, who knows when actual labor will start.  I just hope I can sleep tonight if the contractions aren't leading to actual labor and delivery.  If I know anything after 37 and a half weeks of pregnancy this time around, it's that I have no idea when this baby will be here,  I'll keep you posted.    

Day 73: The Joys of Pregnancy

I've had some more contractions this afternoon and evening, and those are no fun, especially since they're still not regular.  They're more annoying than anything.  I also have been having back pain and it's getting difficult to bend over.  But the worst thing about the last few days is the edema (water retention/swelling) in my feet, ankles, legs, hands, and even my face. The doctor noticed on Tuesday that I've gained a lot of water weight in the past week.  Swelling of the limbs in pregnancy is quite common, and it's especially common in women who have been taken off of bed rest and Procardia/Nifedipine (which also treats high blood pressure/swelling).  It's definitely annoying though, as my joints hurt and the extra weight is hard on my feet.  I've been elevating my feet, controlling my salt intake, drinking cranberry juice and water to flush out the retained water, soaking my feet in cold water, applying cold compresses, and wearing compression socks, but it hasn't helped as much as I would have hoped.  Now I know firsthand about the "joys" of the last weeks of pregnancy that so many women complain about (I only got to 35 weeks with B).   I am getting more and more uncomfortable by the day, but as I've been saying a lot lately, I'm still glad to be pregnant and able to give Baby Boy more time to grow and develop.

Day 72: Week 37 Pregnancy Survey

How far along:  37 weeks and 2 days
Weight gain: Almost 4 1/2 pounds -- I know that's a lot.   My doctor believes most of it is because of water retention -- my ankles, calves, hands, and face are getting really swollen.
How big is baby:  Baby Boy is hopefully six and a half pounds or more
Move­ment:  Now that he has a lot less room, Baby seems to be moving around a little less, but he's still moving.  I feel mostly squirms and him shifting around these days.
Mater­nity clothes:  I'm definitely wearing maternity clothes.  If I wasn't in maternity clothes, nothing would be covered properly these days.  In last week's pregnancy survey, I talked about how even some of my maternity shirts are a little short, so I basically wear the same articles of clothing over and over again, but I figure I'll be out of maternity clothes soon enough and don't really want to invest in any more.
Stretch marks: A few
Belly But­ton (in or out?): Still on its way out (Ew!)

Wed­ding Rings (on or off): Still on, but they're getting hard to put on because of my swollen fingers
How I’m feeling:  I'm feeling surprisingly good these days because I am not experiencing the constant cramping and contractions I was earlier in this pregnancy.  Since Baby has dropped lower, I can literally breathe easier too.  I do, however, have back pain and my feet hurt after being up and around for awhile, and sleeping is getting more difficult, but I'm glad that I'm still pregnant so Baby has a chance to continue to grow and develop.  That said, I'm getting impatient for the baby to come and am starting to anticipate the roller coasters of labor and delivery, nursing, and having a newborn around to take care of.  I know there's probably nothing to worry about now and that there probably aren't any problems with the pregnancy, but until this baby is safely in my arms, I worry about him, nonetheless.   
Symptoms:  I am 75% effaced and dilated to a two.  I'm having occasional contractions that can be pretty intense, but they're irregular.  I'm progressing, just slowly, and it's OK that I am not in active labor at this point.  J could be right, and I could go full-term, or even past my due date (wouldn't that be ironic).  The biggest annoyance this week is edema (swelling/water retention) in my ankles, legs, hands, and even in my face.  I'm trying to flush it out by drinking lots of water and cranberry juice and putting my feet up, but that is only helping a little bit.  Hopefully it won't last too much longer. 
Sleep:  I'm having a lot of difficulty getting a restful night's sleep because I'm constantly looking for a comfortable position, have to go the bathroom a million times, and wake up frequently.
Cravings:  Chocolate is always good, but other than that, I don't really have any real cravings.
Food Aversions:  Nothing really.
What I Miss:  Sleeping comfortably and being able to bend down and do other things that are difficult now that I'm nine months pregnant.
Hardships this week:  Waiting for Baby is getting harder and harder.  After being told for months that he was coming early, these last few days have seemed long.  So I'm trying to keep busy to pass the time and remember that the longer Baby stays put, the better for all of us.

Highlights this week:  Being able to be up and around to "nest" has been great.  I've had the urge to cook, clean, and prepare for Baby for awhile, so I've been glad to be off of bed rest and able to do all the things I've been wanting to do.  I've just enjoyed the simple things like picking up B from school, putting a meal on the table, and playing with B.  We also heard that J got the job,  as long as all his paper work and certification goes through in time to start.  So that's a relief.  We're proud of him. 

What I'm looking forward to:  Having a healthy baby ANYTIME within the next few weeks.

Day 71: Something's Cookin' (Literally and Figuratively)

I've made some progress since last week:  I am now dilated to a 2 and about 75% effaced.  My doctor told me today that some women walk around that way for weeks, so now I'm just assuming that will be me.  That said, the baby has dropped even further into my pelvis (he's "getting to station") and she said my amniotic sac is lower too, so my water "could break soon" . . . whatever "soon means." Dr. M tells me "just two more weeks" at every appointment, so we shall see.  The last few weeks of pregnancy are still important developmentally (Baby gains weight, his brain continues to develop, and the finishing touches are put on all body systems), so I am glad that Baby is staying put, but I am now understanding why every other pregnant woman I know says the last few weeks of gestation are the worst (my feet hurt, I can't sleep comfortably, my back is aching from carrying around the baby and all this extra weight, etc., etc.).  Although my contractions are still irregular, I am having them more frequently, especially when I'm active like I was today.  So contractions could kick up a notch and break my water "soon," or maybe this kid will actually make it full term.  The longer Baby Boy is in there, the better, but I am getting to the point where I'm tired of being pregnant.  I will, however, do anything for my kids, so I'll stay pregnant (and uncomfortable) as long as Baby Boy needs me to.

I was pretty active today.  After I dropped B off at school and went to my doctor's appointment, I stopped at the store and got my foil pans and the few ingredients I didn't get yesterday for our post-baby freezer meals.  It's hard enough to get a meal on the table when you're not pregnant or haven't just had a baby, so I thought I'd try to get ahead of the game and make a few meals that we can take out of the freezer and just pop into the oven on a hectic day with a newborn.  I made Parmesan chicken, meatloaf, spaghetti sauce, homemade Sloppy Joe mix, stuffed shells, and Shepherd's Pie filling.  It took several hours and made for a lot of dishes and a dirty kitchen and standing that long made my feet hurt, but I'm glad to have the meals for later use.  It was a productive day:  the meals are done, B practiced reading with me and did his homework, and the kitchen is clean.  Hopefully all the activity has exhausted me enough to help me get a good night's sleep. 

 

Sorry the photos aren't very clear.  I used the auto-timer to take the shots of myself cooking, and it wasn't easy.    

 

Day 70: 37 Weeks

After all the complications earlier in pregnancy that caused preterm labor and bed rest, this baby has decided he's staying put (though he's getting lower and lower).  We reached 37 weeks today, and there's no sign that Baby Boy would like to see us yet.  I would have never thought we'd get to this point a couple of months ago when I first started having contractions, so I'm glad we've made it this far.  Now Baby Boy can put on some weight and have his all his systems be fully formed and healthy when he's born.  However, we can hardly wait to hold this little one in our arms. 

Highlights of Week Thirty-Seven (35 week fetal age):

• Baby about six and a third pounds and is about 18 inches+ long, so he doesn't have much room to maneuver now.
• Baby is head down in pelvis to prepare for delivery.  The head diameter is over 3.5 inches.
• Most of his basic physical development is now complete - he'll spend the next few weeks (hopefully) putting on weight and developing fat layers to help him keep his temperature and blood sugar stable.   Baby will put on about half a pound a week from here on out (about an ounce a day). 
• Lungs should be just about fully developed (boys' lungs do generally take longer to develop than girls' lungs, however).  Baby is simulating breathing by inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid.  Circulation and immune systems are basically good to go, too. 
• Skin is getting smooth and soft and his gums are rigid.  Baby's bones and skull are still relatively soft to make for an easier delivery and will harden after birth. 
• His kidneys are fully developed now, and his liver can process some waste products. 
• Baby's reflexes are coordinated.  He can turn his head, grasp firmly, and respond to sounds, light and touch. 
• Eyes opened when awake and closed when sleeping.
• Hair on head is growing and can be a 1/2 inch or longer.
• Brain is continuing to develop and mature.
• He's shedding most of the downy covering of hair (lanugo) that covered his body as well as the vernix caseosa, the waxy substance that has covered and protected his skin so far.  Baby swallows both of these substances, along with other secretions, resulting in a blackish mixture, called meconium, will form the contents of his first bowel movement.
• Baby is now developing daily activity and sleep cycles.
• Baby’s digestive system is putting on its finishing touches in preparation to take baby’s first meal in a few weeks’ time.  

Day 69: A Few More

You can hardly tell from this picture that I'm almost 37 weeks pregnant

I've had a few more contractions today than I've been having, but am still not in active labor.  They're getting a little stronger and longer in duration, but they're not at all regular, and I still think labor is a ways off.  But we shall see.  I'm getting more and more uncomfortable by the day, and more impatient for this baby to come, but I'm willing to wait as long as Baby Boy needs and will try to keep myself busy in the meantime (all our baby prep is basically done, so I'll have to find other things to occupy my time).  Tomorrow I'll be 37 weeks along, so worse case scenario, there are only a few weeks left and Baby will be here before we know it.  I have a doctor's appointment on Tuesday, so we'll see what she says as far as whether or not I've progressed this week, but like I said, we might just be waiting for a few more weeks. 

Day 68: Freedom

As I said yesterday, I'm having less contractions now than when I was on bed rest and medications.  Go figure!  I am now getting to the uncomfortable point that I've heard of so many pregnant women complaining about their last few weeks.  I'm starting to get back pain, it's getting more difficult to bend over, and I get tired easily. So the end of this pregnancy is becoming less and less of a risk and more like any other pregnancy.  Thus, I've been using my freedom to be up and around.  I've enjoyed a normal Saturday with lots of errands (we had a lunch of samples at Sam's Club, got some groceries, went to the bank, returned items to the library) and some chores (dishes, bathroom cleaning, and laundry).  We also went to to dinner with J's family and although all these things were pretty mundane, it's nice to be able to do them, especially since all is quiet with this pregnancy.  That said, I am getting more and more impatient to have the baby.  I'm thinking next Thursday would be nice, but I know I can't choose.  I'm just getting worried now that J's starting to take on more shifts the week after next (he works nights) and my mother-in-law will also be out of town.  I'll have to get a back-up driver and babysitter . .. tomorrow.  The baby can't come between the 1st and 6th of March, but knowing that, he probably will.  But then again, who knows because as I said, nothing's happening at this point.

 

Day 67: In For The Long Haul?

I was taken off Nifedipine, my anti-contraction medicine, on Monday, after being on it for eleven weeks (between weeks 25 and 36). The entire time I was on it, doctors had to keep increasing my dosages because I was still experiencing contractions and other preterm labor symptoms, though the medicine thankfully kept my cervix stable and Baby Boy was able to stay put.  I even wound up in the hospital at 28 weeks because the medicines weren't able to stop labor from starting.  Thus, I would have bet that I would be one of those women who instantly go into labor after stopping the meds. Ironically enough, after months of constant contractions (sometimes 10 or more an hour), things have strangely settled down now that I'm off the medicine and bed rest and have increased my activity level.  Several women on the message boards I looked at today said they either went full-term or even past their due dates after stopping Nifedipine (Procardia) at 36 weeks.  J is convinced that that will be the case with me, and I'm becoming more and more convinced that I'll have to be induced at 41 weeks. I might just be in this for the long haul, but we shall see. Whatever be the case, I'm not in active labor yet (just a few contractions here and there) and I am getting a little bit impatient for this baby to get here.  But he can take all the time he needs, and I'll just keep myself busy in the meantime.  We'll keep everyone posted when something starts happening.

Day 66: Week 36 Pregnancy Survey

How far along:  36 weeks and 3 days
Weight gain: 1 1/2 pounds this week, measuring 35 weeks (likely because I'm carrying so low and because I have a little extra amniotic fluid in there)
How big is baby:  Baby Boy is just over 6 pounds according to Monday's ultrasound
Move­ment:  Now that he has a lot less room, Baby seems to be moving around a little less, but he's still moving.  He's especially active in the early morning, around noon, and at night, and early morning. 
Mater­nity clothes:  I'm still wearing maternity clothes, and have grown out of some of them.  J hates that some of my shirts don't quite cover my belly.  My excuse for not having better-fitting maternity clothes is that I didn't carry B this long and since I've been on bed rest for both of  my pregnancies, I didn't need that many and haven't had the ability to shop for new ones.  But now that I'm off bed rest and may still be in it for the long haul, I might just have to go shopping and get a few new items so my clothes actually fit. 
Stretch marks: A few
Belly But­ton (in or out?): Still on its way out (Ew!)

Wed­ding Rings (on or off): Still on
How I’m feeling:  I am physically uncomfortable, but I am glad and somewhat surprised to still be pregnant, considering how worried my doctors and I were just two months ago when I first experienced complications and preterm labor.  I'm a little worried about my risk factors and am just hoping all is well with Baby Boy.  I also find it funny that weeks ago, they had a hard a time stopping labor, and now even with more activity and without medicine, I'm only having a few more contractions than when I was on bed rest, and am kind of wondering why that is. 
Symptoms:  I am 75% effaced and dilated to a little over a one.  As I said, I'm having occasional contractions, which have only increased slightly with the rise of my activity level this week.  They have, however, become a little more intense and longer in duration, so I could be progressing, just slowly.  I am not in active labor at this point, and J could be right, and I could go full-term, or even past my due date (wouldn't that be ironic).  I'm getting more uncomfortable and my stomach is getting tighter, but I'm willing to hang in there as long as Baby is. 
Sleep:  My big belly is making it more and more difficult to get comfortable and stay asleep.  I also have to get up several times a night to go to the bathroom, so I'm not getting a ton of restful sleep, but I am still managing to sleep a little.
Cravings:  Mexican food and pasta, but everything gives me heartburn these days
Food Aversions:  Milk has been bothering me lately.
What I Miss:  Sleeping comfortably and being able to bend down without feeling like I'm going to pop.
Hardships this week:  Waiting to hear back whether or not J has the job that starts in March has been hard.  Hopefully we'll know by the beginning of next week.  Dealing with our insurance company who does not want to pay for J's "out of network" emergency room doctors when he had his snowboarding accident two months ago has not been fun either. 

Highlights this week:  Getting off of bed rest has been great.  I'm not doing anything out of the ordinary, but it's SO nice to be able to be up and around again. 

What I'm looking forward to:  Having a healthy baby anytime within the next few weeks.

Day 65: The First Things

I'm not sure what you would do if you were finally let off bed rest after nine weeks, but I did the normal things that I have been wanting to do for the past 63 days, the things you probably don't want to do today or any day, but are things that have to be done.  I wanted to do these things after not having done them for so long.  So for the past 48 hours since I was paroled from bed rest, I've been putting away laundry, grocery shopping, making dinner (Mrs. Krostaya's meatloaf. .. yum), and doing other routine chores.  I'm trying not to over-do it so that I don't induce labor, as I've had a few more contractions now that I've been taken off of medication and am moving around a lot more.  After weeks of inactivity, I am easily fatigued doing even simple things (I took a break in between rooms when I was vacuuming to sit on the couch for a few minutes), but I am feeling good and any contractions I've had haven't really done much.  (We'll update you as soon as real labor starts).  I would like labor to start naturally, so I'm not doing anything too strenuous, but it has felt good to be able to do some of the more mundane things that I've wanted to do for a long time. 

I know when I first went on bed rest that nine weeks seemed like an eternity.  But that time has come and gone (thankfully) and I can testify that life goes on during and after bed rest.  The bed in our living room finally come off the floor today, I changed the sheets and made the bed on my own, and I was able to sit up to clip coupons and prepare for my shopping trip, without having to rely on someone to do it for me.  So I was productive today and am glad that I can be a little more active than before (I am still trying to take it easy so I can stay pregnant for at least another week, and we can have a take-home baby in our arms).   Here are a few before and after shots from when I was on bed rest and today, now that I'm off.  

                                           Before                                               After

 

Day 64: Worry Wart

It's been nice to be up and around today, without any movement restrictions.  I've managed to get a lot done, especially in comparison to the minimum amount of things I got done while on bed rest. Even with the distractions of cleaning the kitchen, attending playgroup with B, and grocery shopping for a few essentials, I am still worried about Baby Boy. I think moms start worrying about their children as soon as they find out they're pregnant, and don't stop worrying about them even when they're grown adults, of any age.  Although I am at the 36 week mark, I am still worried and will probably still worry until this baby is here, safe and healthy. 

I am dilated to a one and 70% effaced, and that could mean labor will occur sooner rather than later, but then again, who knows?  The real issue is that my doctor discussed more of my risk factors with me yesterday, and I can't stop thinking about them.  These risk factors could mean nothing, or they could mean serious complications for Baby Boy.  Whatever be the case, this pregnancy is even more of risk than we originally thought.  I thought being taken off of bed rest would leave me feeling less stressed, but I'm just as stressed now as I was when I went into labor nine weeks ago, but for different reasons.  In some ways, I just want him to get here so we can make sure he's fine, but in other ways, I know the longer he stays in utero, the better.  I just have to stop worrying about all the POSSIBLE risks and just keep plugging along.

My amniotic fluid levels are a tiny bit on the high end, so I have very mild polyhydramnios. I have 20.5 centimeters of fluid, which is only a  1/2  centimeter above the norm, so doctors aren't too worried at this point.  But if it the levels get higher in the next few weeks, it could be indicative of a huge problem for baby such as esophageal issues where the baby isn't swallowing correctly, heart and neurological defects, and fetal abnormalities.  There is also a higher risk of placental abruption or prolapse during birth, as well as postpartum hemorrhaging.  Thankfully, I don't really have any of the risk factors associated with high water (a tummy measuring weeks ahead, a baby measuring much larger than normal, third trimester bleeding, severe abdominal pain, and swelling of the limbs).  The milder the case of polhydramnios, the better, so I have that going for me, as fluid levels are only slightly higher than normal.  I am further cheered by the fact that ultrasounds haven't shown anything wrong with the baby and from the looks of the ultrasound yesterday, it look like his kidneys, heart, and bladder are functioning properly.  More often than not, higher fluid levels do not lead to any complications, so I'm pretty sure these results are just causing me unnecessary worry, but it's still unnerving.   

The doctor also wants me to measure Baby Boy's movements every night to make sure Baby is still active and not in possible distress.  Today and yesterday he's been moving just fine, but this weekend, it seemed like movement decreased significantly. Doctors explained that's likely because he's even more cramped than most babies because of my uterine abnormality and doesn't have a lot of room to move.  Higher fluid levels can make movements harder to detect, as can the fact that he's facing my back and is very low in my pelvis.  So I'll be vigilant about "kick counts" and I'm sure if I'm watching closely, I'll notice them more than I did this weekend, just as I have in the past two days.  I was glad to have the ultrasound yesterday to make sure everything  Baby was moving and growing OK, and I pray that everything continues to be that way.

I also tested positive for Group B Strep (25% of women are natural carriers without even knowing it).  This means that I will need antibiotics during labor to keep the baby from contracting it when coming through the birth canal.  For babies, Strep B can be extremely dangerous and even fatal.  I'm sure that with the antibiotics, the baby  will be fine.  That just means I need to get to the hospital with enough time for them to administer the antibiotics.  Sometimes women who have a history of pre-term labor progress very quickly once actual labor ensues, so the doctor wants me to arrive when I'm having contractions about 7 minutes apart and lasting 40 seconds or more, rather than the 4-5 minutes apart they tell most women.  That way, they will have enough time to administer the anti-strep medication and the epidural I'm looking forward to.  If my water breaks, I have to go in as soon as possible so there aren't any complications caused to the baby because of the strep.  I'm assuming I'll know when I am in actual labor (though I don't know when that will be) and be able to get to the hospital and get the antibiotics in time, but it's another issue that causes me worry. 

There are most likely no problems with Baby Boy's development and even with the risk factors, everything should turn out fine for the remainder of my pregnancy, during labor and delivery, and after birth.  I am trying to stay optimistic and not look at research on the above issues that just freaks me out.  I'm also trying to remember that I am in the hands of capable doctors who are just preparing me for the worst, as most likely, none of these things will cause any harm to the baby - I've decided sometimes being less educated about issues like this, is better and leads to less worry.  Even with the likelihood of a good outcome, prayers that everything goes well with the remainder of this pregnancy (how ever long that will be) and that Baby Boy will be born healthy are appreciated.  And maybe saying a prayer for me not to worry so much would help too.

Day 63: Bye, Bye Bed Rest (36 Weeks)

Today my bed rest sentence issued exactly nine weeks ago was finally revoked because Baby Boy and I made it to week 36!   Baby Boy is growing and weighing in at 6 pounds, 1 ounce and is about 17 inches long.  The ultrasound technician commented on his short little legs, but having another baby who is on the short side is no surprise to J and I who aren't very tall ourselves.  My stomach is measuring around 35 weeks because baby is low in my pelvis, but I'm still growing and Baby is still moving even in the very cramped conditions my bicornuate uterus provides!  Because he's so low, some of these ultrasound shots have part of his forehead cut off, and he kept moving his hand in front of his face (no, that's not a foot in the third photo below), but I liked being able to see my baby's little face and knowing he's doing OK.

I have also been taken off of Procardia and Progesterone which help to prevent early contractions and cervical change.  Some women go into labor within hours of stopping the medications and others last 10-14 days or more.  So we shall see what happens from this point.  Right now besides some back pain and feeling completely out of shape (after only getting up to go to the bathroom and the table for two months, even walking or sitting is fatiguing), I'm pretty asymptomatic.  Who knows when the contractions will start and send me in to actual labor?  People ask me when I think this baby is coming, and honestly, I have absolutely NO idea.  

 

Highlights of Week Thirty-Six (34 week fetal age):

• Baby weighs just over six pounds and doesn't have much room to maneuver now that he's about 17 inches long. 
• Baby is head down in pelvis to prepare for delivery.
• Most of his basic physical development is now complete - he'll spend the next few weeks (hopefully) putting on weight and developing fat layers.   Baby will put on about half a pound a week from here on out. 
• Lungs should be just about fully developed (boys' lungs do generally take longer to develop than girls' lungs, however).  Circulation and immune systems are basically good to go, too.
• Skin is getting smooth and soft and his gums are rigid.  Baby's bones and skull are still relatively soft to make for an easier delivery and will harden after birth.
• His kidneys are fully developed now, and his liver can process some waste products. 
• Baby's reflexes are coordinated.  He can turn his head, grasp firmly, and respond to sounds, light and touch. 
• Eyes opened when awake and closed when sleeping.
• He's shedding most of the downy covering of hair (lanugo) that covered his body as well as the vernix caseosa, the waxy substance that has covered and protected his skin so far.  Baby swallows both of these substances, along with other secretions, resulting in a blackish mixture, called meconium, will form the contents of his first bowel movement.
• Baby is sporting full-length fingernails and toenails and hair is growing on head.
• Baby is now developing daily activity and sleep cycles.
• Brain development continues to advance quickly.
• Baby’s digestive system is putting on its finishing touches in preparation to take baby’s first meal in a few weeks’ time.

Day 62: Last Day of Bed Rest!

My last day on bed rest

If all goes well, I will be officially released from bed rest tomorrow afternoon, so today should be my last day of bed rest.  I go in for an ultrasound and if everything looks good, my doctor will tell me that I no longer have to be horizontal 24/7!  So far, I'm not feeling any real labor symptoms and feel like we're in for the long haul (March 17th is my official due date), but anything could happen once they take me off of Progestrone (Prometrium) and Nifedipine (Procardia) which have worked to keep my cervix from shortening and my contractions from progressing.  I'm looking forward to an ultrasound to check Baby Boy who seems to be moving less and less as the conditions in my bicornuate uterus get more cramped.  I just want to make sure everything looks good with Baby Boy and am excited that today was my last day of bed rest. 

We actually had family visit this weekend and Great Grandpa brought a train for B.  I went to Church with extended family for an hour today and then we had dinner together, so I was up and around for a little while throughout the day.  But I figure since everything is quiet and this baby should be good for at least another week (hopefully), doing a little more on my last day of bed rest is acceptable.  As long as I don't go into labor tonight, right?  Haha.

Day 61: Bed Rest Survival Tips

Me on one of my last days of bed rest!   (Hopefully, I still have to wait for the doctor's OK on Monday afternoon).

In honor of my second to last day of bed rest, I figured I'd share how I've made it through these last two months of laying down for the sake of Baby Boy.  Bed rest sounds like a dream to some people:  a hiatus from dishes, childcare, work, and other responsibilities.  But with it comes emotional turmoil, isolation, physical discomfort, restlessness, and family stressors.  I learned that firsthand as I went from an independent, productive, mobile member of society to the exact opposite.  Bed rest was difficult, but I can honestly say that it works.  There's no way Baby and I would have made it this far without it.  My contractions which increase with activity would not have been kept at bay without bed rest intervention, and without "pelvic rest," my cervix would have been too short (effaced) to continue to carry this baby.  As I look at it, I bought this baby 61 NICU-free days with bed rest, and I did it by doing the following (in no particular order):

1. I knew I was not alone.  800,000 women are put on bed rest each year according to the US Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, so I knew I was in good company.  I also had a support system in my friends and family.  My husband, J, has been especially great and so has my mother-in-law.  These two wonderful people took on the responsibilities I could no longer perform and J was good at reminding me why I was doing this.  Friends and family members brought in meals, visited, sent cards or emails, called, did laundry, helped with chores, and cared for B.  I also had an online support system.  Facebook brought friends and family a little closer and blogs and Sidelines.org. got me in contact with fellow bed-resting mamas.  All of these associations kept me clued into the world and not throw a daily pity party.
2. I knew bed rest was temporary.  My first days of bed rest seemed to last "forever," but I had to remember that while the days are long, bed rest wasn't a permanent thing.  Focusing on making it through a day at a time and marking the days and weeks off on my calendar helped.  Now that I'm close to being able to get up and around the last two months don't seem as long, and I know once this baby comes and I'm sleep-deprived I'll probably be wishing for a day of bed rest.
3. I kept a routine.  I woke up and ate at the same time every day.  I also had meals with my family so I was not so isolated (even if that meant me with a tray and them at the table).  I took a daily bath or shower and got dressed every day, even if it was just in new pajamas.  Once I was far enough along in my pregnancy where I could stand longer to get ready for the day, I found I felt so much better when I got dressed in real clothes and I wasn't lying around in my pjs all day, feeling like a "sickie".    Whether I was scheduling movie time, time for social media, or housekeeping items (like bill paying), I tried to structure my day so I didn't feel so dull.  I also didn't let day and night turn into one long blur.  In the morning, I had J open the curtains and kept busy all day so I was less likely to nap all day and lie awake all night.  Another thing I loved was having a mattress in the front room so I could be in there with my family during the day and then go to my bed at night.  It helped to separate my days and nights and made sleep come easier too.
4. I let people help.  I can't say I ever stopped feeling guilty for not being able to help B and for over-burdening J, but I did let go of the guilt of leaving dirty dishes and laundry for someone else to do.  I realized things weren't going to be done my way and let things go.  I had others vacuum, take B to and from school, watch B, shop, and do other things for me.  I also had meals brought in and even lived with my in-laws for two weeks when J was overwhelmed with state boards and taking on my responsibilities.  It was hard, but letting go and allowing people to serve me was really the only way I was able to do this.
5. We found a "bed rest normal."  When Mom is on bed rest, life is not normal for anyone, especially your child(ren) and husband who also have emotional reactions to the changes bed rest brings.  I learned to replace our old routines with new ones.  For example, instead of picking B up from school, I read with and spent time with him directly after school.  I did my shopping online, spent time with J and B doing things we could do while I was laying down, and made lists to help J and others keep our house running.  I also had to remember that not everything was going to be perfect.  I had to let go of the fact that J didn't use coupons, that B slept in my bed for his comfort and my ease on J's work nights, that B threw some fits, that the bathroom wasn't cleaned "my" way, etc.  
6. I celebrated the milestones.  Sometimes just getting through a day of bed rest is an achievement, so on those days, I allowed myself a daily treat (like a bubble bath, a bowl of ice cream, or back rub from my husband).  But usually, I just celebrated my weekly developmental periods (like 28 or 32 weeks) by rewarding myself with something significant like a pedicure or takeout from a favorite restaurant.   My doctor also allowed me a standing photo each week, starting at 30 weeks, and that helped me celebrate the important milestones.  Rewards were very motivating and kept me optimistic. 
7. I kept busy.  Not all my time was productive, but I did keep busy reading, blogging, watching LOTS of movies and TV shows (like Top Chef),  playing word games, and doing Sudoku puzzles.  Thanks to the tablet computer I was able to borrow from my father-in-law, I caught up on the last two and a half years of General Conference, did our taxes, and edited family photos.  I also tried my hand at crocheting for the first time, shopped online, and did other things to help prepare for Baby's arrival.  Even if there was no one around to high five when I got the high score on Bejeweled, I kept my mind and hands occupied while laying down and that helped keep me sane.
8. I kept things handy.  Bed rest results in a loss of control, and I hated to be dependent on others for EVERYTHING and to keep having them fetch things for me.  So I put a basket by my bed full of the stuff I need on a daily basis (a pad of paper, a nail file, puzzles, games, my phone, thank you notes, reading material, the portable DVD player, etc.).  I also had a bedside cooler for when nobody was around.  A tray for meals, a clipboard, and this computer tablet were also keys to my successful stint on bed rest.
9. I did gentle bed rest exercises as my doctor permitted.  Bed rest leaves muscles feeling fatigued and laying down 24/7 gets uncomfortable.  I exercised as much as permitted to help maintain my muscular strength and circulation.  I did leg slides, hip flexers, abdominal breathing, arm stretches, and ankle circles.  Just moving my arms and legs kept me invigorated and gave me a pick-me-up every few hours. 
10. I resisted feeling as though I was doing "nothing." I revised my notion of productivity after the first few days.  I realized having a movie marathon or playing Bookworm for an hour was acceptable for my situation and kept reminding myself that I am making a baby, and needed to rest.  Remembering this allowed me to stay positive.  As I said, I gave my baby 61 NICU-free days because of bed rest, and that is definitely an accomplishment, not a "nothing."  

Day 60: A Valentine's Day on Bed Rest

We had a fun Valentine's Day even with me being on bed rest.  B woke up to the gifts J set out for him last night (Superhero washcloths, gum, and fruit snacks) and B gave us the Valentines he made for us.  J and I spent time talking, shopping for a few things on our baby registry, and working on the computer together this morning.  J also got us takeout for lunch, and then we went to B's school for his Valentine's Day party.  I know I already had my field trip this week, but since I didn't have my field trip last week, I figured a half an hour sitting in a chair after literally being dropped off in front of the classroom would be worth it for B's sake.  We had a nice Valentine's dinner of pizza and had cupcakes for dessert.  It was a nice Valentine's Day and me laying in bed was hardly a factor.  Being up and around more today and spending time with my family has me even more excited to have my bed rest sentence lifted on Monday.       

 

Day 59: Just Waiting, Sweetheart

Now that I'm 35 1/2 weeks, this pregnancy has become a waiting game, which is fine with me.  I have a very occasional contraction, but things are pretty quiet these days.  I was too impatient with my discomfort and contractions when pregnant with B and that's why the doctor broke my water at 35 weeks, which is still a little too early (though I'm grateful he got that far).  I'm willing to be patient for the sake of Baby Boy, and am pushing closer and closer to term, which is great.  I'm so glad we got past the scary times of 26 and 28 and even 30 weeks.  I can tell Baby Boy is cramped in my little bicornuate uterus, so we'll see how long we go when I'm taken off of medication and bed rest on Monday.  Bed rest has been a rollercoaster of praying, hoping, and waiting, but it's been worth it as I come upon 36 weeks.

Day 58: 35 Week Pregnancy Survey

How far along:  35 weeks and 2 days
Weight gain: 1 pound this week, measuring 34 1/2 weeks (likely because I'm carrying so low)
How big is baby:  Baby Boy is hopefully over 5 pounds  
Move­ment:  Now that he has a lot less room, Baby seems to be moving around a little less, but he's still moving.  He's especially active around noon, night, and early morning.  J thinks it's weird when he sees the baby roll around in my stomach and has asked "How can you stand it?"  I just answer "Because there's a growing baby inside there, and I'm still pregnant."
Mater­nity clothes:  Still in maternity clothes, and growing out of some of them.
Stretch marks: My doctor noticed one lengthwise across my stomach. Too bad cocoa butter and Mederma don't seem to work for me.
Belly But­ton (in or out?): On its way out (Ew!)

Wed­ding Rings (on or off): Still on
How I’m feeling:  I am physically uncomfortable, but I am glad and somewhat surprised to still be pregnant, considering how worried my doctors and I were just two months ago when I first experienced complications and preterm labor.  I'm feeling optimistic that this Baby will go as long as necessary, and that bed rest will be over in four and a half days.
Symptoms:  My cervix is still about 1 1/2 centimeters (it's on the shorter side, but it's staying stable) and I'm only dilated to about a one.  Lots of women walk around that way for weeks, so I'm not giving up yet.  I'm having occasional contractions (Braxton Hicks as well as real ones), and I'm getting more uncomfortable, but I'm willing to hang in there as long as Baby is.  
Sleep:  Sleep is getting more and more difficult, and I'm trying not to take Ambien all the time, but I often do just so I can actually get some rest.
Cravings:  Mexican food, but it gives me heartburn
Food Aversions:  Nothing, really
What I Miss:  The usual:  sleeping comfortably, shopping, going out, being able to get on the floor to play with Bryson, being social, going to Church, cooking, cleaning, etc.
Hardships this week:  Having some friends and family members go through some difficult times this week, and feeling their suffering.

Highlights this week:  My wheelchair field trip to lunch, a movie, and the store was a lot of fun. 

What I'm looking forward to:  Being off of bed rest in less than a week and having a healthy baby any time now. 

Day 57: The Simple Things

I made it further in this pregnancy than my last.  B was born at exactly 35 weeks, and today I'm 35 weeks and one day!  I also have less than a week of bed rest left (5 1/2 days to be exact)!  My doctor told me at today's appointment that my cervix is still stable and I'm still only dilated to a one.  She concedes that my contractions are getting more intense, but it should still take awhile for them to progress far enough to put me into actual labor (she is waiting to see if they kick into high gear once I get off Progesterone, Procardia, and bed rest next week.  So Baby and I are still going strong and we're getting closer and closer to full-term and getting off of bed rest.  Bed rest has not been easy, but it's working, and it has helped me really enjoy the simple things, like eating a meal lovingly prepared for me and watching B make Valentines for his class.  Enjoy photos of my simple pleasure from today: 

 

Day 56: We Made It To 35 Weeks

 

Thanks to faith, medicine, hospital intervention at 26 and 28 weeks, and A LOT of prayer (ours and others'), I am 35 weeks pregnant.  If I make it past 10:40 tonight (and I have NO notions that I won't), I will have carried this baby longer than I carried B who was born at exactly 35 weeks.  I am only dilated to a one at this point and contractions are occasional and irregular, so we're still going strong.  I will be taken off of bed rest and all my medications in seven days!  I can't wait.  My contractions could very well go crazy once medicine and bed rest are taken out of the equation, but then again, maybe I'll go full term.  We shall see, and I'll keep you updated.

I also finally got my field trip in that I didn't get last week.  J and I went to lunch and then I rode around Target in a scooter (Jarom was horrified at my lack of scooter-driving skills and had to help me back up and maneuver down the aisles a few times so I didn't knock anything over).  We got our blue bath tub and a few clothes.  Our Pack N' Play is apparently on back order, so hopefully it will get here in time for us to bring Baby home.  I had fun going on a date with J and am so glad to be 35 weeks along, as I am confident Baby would be fine if born anytime from here on out.  I know we made it this long on faith and prayers, so thank you for sending yours!  Now we'll see if we can make it full-term!

Some of our loot:  the Superhero onesies have capes on the back . . so cute!

 

Highlights of Week Thirty-Five (33 week fetal age):

• Baby doesn't have much room to maneuver now that he's over 18 inches long (hopefully . . . we’re all short over here, and B was only 17 inches long at this point).  Just because he’s not doing somersaults, doesn’t mean he’s not still kicking and rolling.  I often see/feel a bum, elbow, foot, or hand protruding from my belly.
• He tips the scales at about 5 pounds, 4 ounces or more, about the size of a honeydew melon.
• Baby is head down in pelvis to prepare for delivery.
• Most of his basic physical development is now complete — he'll spend the next few weeks (hopefully) putting on weight.   Baby will put on about half a pound a week from here on out.  
• Baby Boy's body is growing rounder due to developing fat layers.  He still probably doesn't have enough fat deposits beneath his skin to keep warm outside the womb, but fat stores are accumulating in the legs and arms. These layers of fat will help him regulate his body temperature after birth.
• Although Baby's central nervous system is still maturing, his lungs are nearly fully developed (boys' lungs do generally take longer to develop than girls' lungs, however).
• His kidneys are fully developed now, and his liver can process some waste products. 
• Baby's reflexes are coordinated.  He can turn his head, grasp firmly, and respond to sounds, light and touch. 
• Eyes opened when awake and closed when sleeping.
• Baby is sporting full-length fingernails and toenails.
• Lanugo, the baby fuzz that protects baby's skin in utero is starting to disappear. The cheese-like coating on baby's skin, vernix caseosa, is getting thicker to keep Baby moisturized for the big day.
• Hair continuing to grow on head. 
• By end of week, Baby will start to develop daily activity cycles.
• Brain development continues to advance quickly.
• Baby’s digestive system is putting on its finishing touches in preparation to take baby’s first meal in a few weeks’ time.