Moms of Multiples - 7.18.16

DiFazette · July 2016

Where is July going???

How far along are you?

Physical symptoms:

Finding out the sexes? When?

Any movement on the nursery?

Any strong feelings on names?

I'm more than halfway through my pregnancy! We're all coming up on that mark! How do you feel about that?

Toller · July 2016

Where is July going??? Seriously! I have no idea

How far along are you? 16w4d

Physical symptoms: achy, some energy- I get about 3-4 hours of really good energy in the morning, then I'm worthless. New: Heartburn when I havens eaten (which is weird!). My right arm keeps falling asleep at night... no idea what that's about but today was especially bad!!

Finding out the sexes? When? Oh yes- finding out there was 2 was enough surprises for me- 8/8 is the day! I might switch to a standard ultrasound though- I'm super torn!! No one has any good information for me on the advantages of a level II versus level I. Just that "it's more detailed. and includes an echo" I was trying to look up things that could be found on a Level II that need to be addressed in utero/immediately after birth but I didn't find much other than a possible heart problem... anyone else get more info????? My doc said it was up to me which ultrasound to get (thanks).

Any movement on the nursery? umm.. DH currently keeps all his clothes in that room that will be the twins' room, so I'm working on clearing out half my clothes so he can put his in our closet to free up that room. It's a slow process. I think this will move faster once we know what they are....

Any strong feelings on names? Lucas for sure if there is a boy, not sure on another boy or girls.... Probably "L" names though.

I'm more than halfway through my pregnancy! We're all coming up on that mark! How do you feel about that? Still feel like i'll never get there

but I plan on keep these babes in as long as I can- though I'm terrified of what that will physically look like!! I think DH has no idea what he's in for...

DiFazette · July 2016

@Toller02 - I'd do the level II. In my area (and the area I'm from) it's fairly standard to do a level II for the anatomy scan. Also, They're looking for abnormalities that can usually be found in one baby on a standard ultrasound, but it's harder when there's two. The machines are generally better, which other than time of the scan is the main difference. Your scan will automatically be longer because, well, 2 babies.

Are your babies IVF? I understand a fetal echo is only for IVF or suspected issues. I didn't have one.

Some of the things they can see on a level II (and looked for with mine) are a vey big deal. Kidney function and size, extra clear view of the spinal cord and brain, hemispheres of the brain, cord inserts, heart chambers and blood movement.

Anatomy my scans can detect all kinds of abnormalities. Trisomies, cleft palettes, spina bifida, as well as many others. It also checks for fluid levels, location of placentas to be sure there isn't a placenta previa issue and length and strength of cervix.

All of this said, I couldn't imagine a reason to opt out of having a better view of all of these things... What's the concern with doing. A level II? Especially if your babies are IVF, heart problems are more likely.

Toller · July 2016

@DiFazette thanks- that's more info than anyone else has been able to give me so far....

I'm concerned about the additional ultrasound time it may take the extra measurements versus what information will actually be gotten from it. My doc said that the machines are the same-so I'm not sure the picture would be clearer in this situation ( the perinatal nurse said theirs were better usually- maybe it depends on the practice) and the level II is just a little more in depth- she didnt feel strongly one way or the other. The perinatal nurse also told me an echo was one of the main differences.

From what I've read online, there is zero standardization these days between levels, which is why I'm guessing that there is the confusion. Maybe it varies by where you are.....

I may have to put a call into my doc and talk to her again. I have both scheduled right now until I decide. I might request an echo anyways if I go with the standard A/S....

DiFazette · July 2016

@Toller02 - for what it's worth, I had a level II with DS and he was (at that time) a healthy singleton pregnancy. My providers referred everyone to a level II since its most likely to pick up abnormalities. They looked at all the same things they looked for on my A/S last week. There aren't additional measurements between level I and level II as far as I understand so I really don't think you're saving yourself time. I think they can see more, so they take more images which may increase the time, but they still look at the same things. I've been under the absolute impression that it's machine quality and ultrasound tech experience. Also, your ultrasound will be read by MFM/perinatologist who is better trained at identifying issues in utero.

Whatever makes you feel better, but it sounds like more work and exposure to get a regular scan that will likely take 45-hour (because they're looking at 2) and then do an additional echo. You'll have to do the level II for an echo anyway. Why not do it in one appt?

Toller · July 2016

@DiFazette I really appreciate your input on this! It really helps me to find the right questions to ask. I do think my practice gives an above average anatomy ultrasound- but- I did not consider the "level II" being read by a perinatologist.... that really sticks out to me as significant.

DiFazette · July 2016

Where are the rest of our twin mamas???

juliehollz13 · July 2016

DiFazette said:

@Toller02 - I'd do the level II. In my area (and the area I'm from) it's fairly standard to do a level II for the anatomy scan. Also, They're looking for abnormalities that can usually be found in one baby on a standard ultrasound, but it's harder when there's two. The machines are generally better, which other than time of the scan is the main difference. Your scan will automatically be longer because, well, 2 babies.

Are your babies IVF? I understand a fetal echo is only for IVF or suspected issues. I didn't have one.

Some of the things they can see on a level II (and looked for with mine) are a vey big deal. Kidney function and size, extra clear view of the spinal cord and brain, hemispheres of the brain, cord inserts, heart chambers and blood movement.

Anatomy my scans can detect all kinds of abnormalities. Trisomies, cleft palettes, spina bifida, as well as many others. It also checks for fluid levels, location of placentas to be sure there isn't a placenta previa issue and length and strength of cervix.

All of this said, I couldn't imagine a reason to opt out of having a better view of all of these things... What's the concern with doing. A level II? Especially if your babies are IVF, heart problems are more likely.

L*Lurking*

I had both levels of U/S - level II is a lot clearer and the machines are a LOT newer and have all these gadgets and buttons on them. There's definitely a difference in machines and picture quality. They're both 2D and black and white, but level II machines are a lot clearer/sharper and less fuzzier. Here's examples: Granted, these are 1st trimester ones but I don't have any pics in my phone from the 2nd trimester U/S.

Level II @ 9 weeks at RE's (where they use level II machines) and regular U/S @ OB at 10 weeks

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5020794/uploads/editor/2u/0tsdj1digxph.jpg

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5020794/uploads/editor/oz/25z6adotgzp5.jpg

Toller · July 2016

DiFazette said:

Where are the rest of our twin mamas???

Yea!

I know I've been struggling getting "excited"- I 1000000% want these babies, but the reality (and I'm a realist- which while sometimes helpful, typically isn't always a positive way to be) freaks me out if I focus too much on it. I already feel SO full/huge (and obviously that will only get worse).

I think (hoping!) after the anatomy scan, provided things look good, that will ease some of my anxiety

brittnic86 · July 2016

Where is July going??? For real. I just realized last night our wedding anniversary is in two weeks.

How far along are you? 19 weeks 2 days

Physical symptoms: um....not lately. Tired? But isn't that an always thing?

Finding out the sexes? When? yessss. On Tuesday! 6 days!

Any movement on the nursery? ha. NO. I think once I know what they are I'll start focusing more on this.

Any strong feelings on names? Well Milo James is a boy name we've had picked out for years, and we also decided on Austin John for another boy name. We both like the name Ellie...and I want my grandma's middle name, Bliss, but DH also want's his mom's name Lynn somewhere...so if there is a girl, she'll probably end up with two middle names. Haven't thought of a second girl name. We actually haven't talked about names in awhile. I'm sure we will again after Tuesday

I'm more than halfway through my pregnancy! We're all coming up on that mark! How do you feel about that? People say this time goes by fast, and yeah, I guess it has...but at the same time I'm like damn, am I really only half way there? I'm starting to feel like I've procrastinated a bit. But I think I still have some time left before I need to panic.

DiFazette · July 2016

How far along are you? 20w

Physical symptoms: stretching, peeing

Finding out the sexes? When? 2 more boys!!

Any movement on the nursery? Almost finished!

Any strong feelings on names? I'm 98% sure, DH is 95% sure but he's hesitant to commit. Oliver and Asher.

I'm more than halfway through my pregnancy! We're all coming up on that mark! How do you feel about that? Wonderful. My last pregnancy and birth have robbed me of any joy of pregnancy. I'm just waiting for the shoe to drop. I want these babies here and all 3 of us to be healthy and able to go home. My stress will increase 10 fold in another 8 weeks for fear of a repeat situation.

Toller · July 2016

@brittnic86 Maybe there is a first name that ends in "lynn"? We wanted "anna" in DD's name (also to honor someone), so ended up going with Lilianna so it's uniquely hers, but symbolic too! Bliss is a really nice middle name!! I bet that will go well with a lot of first names.

@DiFazette is 28 weeks when things started to happen with your first? It was really refreshing to me to see your attitude right now- so don't loose that!!

I really hope things go perfectly for you this time- but either way you seem very prepared. How is the new doc situation going? Did you find one you like or still on the search?

brittnic86 · July 2016

@Toller02 eh, I'm not really a fan of the names ending in Lynn lol. I'm fine with having two middle names...my brother has two middle names. I still think it's two boys, so maybe it won't even be an issue lol. I love my grandma's middle name! DH's sister said Ellie Bliss sounds like a stripper...soooo yeah.

DiFazette · July 2016

Toller02 said:

@DiFazette is 28 weeks when things started to happen with your first? It was really refreshing to me to see your attitude right now- so don't loose that!!

I really hope things go perfectly for you this time- but either way you seem very prepared. How is the new doc situation going? Did you find one you like or still on the search?

@Toller02 yes, i was hospitalized the first time at 30 weeks but it all started to get wonky around 28. Finding a new OB is very odd when you're pregnant and high risk. I called my first choice and i need to get my records over to them to review before they will agree to accept me as a patient. They deliver at a world class hospital with a level IV NICU which is ranked as one of the best nationally. What in the hell would they not be able to handle? This isn't some little community hospital. Either way, it feels weird to alert my OB that I want my records before I'm "accepted" somewhere else. It feels like quitting your job before you have another - probably not a great idea. I think i'm going to call and ask to pick up a copy of my chart myself. That way it could be for me, and if this OB says no, at least i have the records to try elsewhere? SO MUCH WORK!

Toller · July 2016

@DiFazette I totally get how you feel! If my switch to this doc hadn't worked out (so far it's good), I was like "AHH my records are going to be all over the city by the time this is all settled!!" I was hoping when I requested my records that only the little record people would know and that info wouldn't go to the docs... lol

Interesting they have to "accept" you- must be a great place! I'm also delivering at a place with a Level IV NICU (not "best in the country" but definitely best for the surrounding states, plus I work there).

I think that's smart and easiest to have your own copy of the records!

@brittnic86 HAHA- yes the girls names could very well not be an issue!! I think Ellie Bliss is cute

it's not like it's Candie Bliss or Sparkle Bliss ....

DiFazette · July 2016

@Toller02 - yeah, with all the bragging and accolades spewed all over their website, i would assume they could handle worst possible scenario, maybe they just don't want to

It's one of the main reasons I "selected" them, though.

jazzminlee · July 2016

How far along are you?

Physical symptoms:

Finding out the sexes? When?

Any movement on the nursery?

Any strong feelings on names?

I'm more than halfway through my pregnancy! We're all coming up on that mark! How do you feel about that?

jazzminlee · July 2016

How far along are you? 19 weeks and 2 days

Physical symptoms: Really bad pelvic pain. Doctor told me I have SPD which just means my pelvis is spreading fast and further. Nothing can be done about it so just gotta push through.

Finding out the sexes? When?

We found out yesterday. Boy and a girl on board

John Douglas and Ruby Joline

John is measuring a little bigger then Ruby so they are going to be monitoring that. I have two sacs and two placentas so they are not too worried about twin to twin transference but it's being monitored. I just think he is gonna be bigger and broad like his daddy. Ruby hid her face the whole time so we didn't get a clear shot of her. John gave us a profile once he would sit still.

Any movement on the nursery?

We are in the process of getting a home loan to do an extension so my old bedroom will become the nursey. Already painted the way I want it so that's awesome. We are doing a woodland theme so the tan I had already worked. We got our cribs but everything is in storage until we do the extension.

I'm more than halfway through my pregnancy! We're all coming up on that mark! How do you feel about that?

I am so excited and finally feels real to me. Doc, hubby and I talked yesterday about birth plan and we toured the hospital.

jazzminlee · July 2016

Our gender announcement. We had our 8 year old close her eyes and I put the binks in her hands. Her reaction when she saw them was great

Amecsey · July 2016

Eek. We are having two boys! Just found out yesterday! SO excited and happy!

brittnic86 · July 2016

DiFazette · July 2016

@brittnic86 yay! Congrats on 2 healthy girls! (I assume you'd say so if your A/S indicated any issues). Lots of same sex twins for a group with mostly (or all) Di-Di pregnancy.

brittnic86 · July 2016

@DiFazette yes they both seem to be perfectly healthy

Toller · July 2016

@brittnic86 congrats!! You guys are killing me with your A/S's!! (but I'm super glad all is looking great!) I'm still 13 days away.... gah!

Amecsey · July 2016

@brittnic86
Congrats on the two baby girls! (A little jealous!) Are you going to dress them in matching or complimentary clothes?

Side note, stay safe and healthy out there ladies! A friend from childhood, who was also due in December with boy/girl twins just found out she lost one. I cannot even imagine. I know two babies are not what we all planned for, but now I couldn't imagine it any other way, and we are all so lucky! Remember they can hear you now, so talk to them (I may seem creepy sometimes because I rub my belly and talk to them). They are all going to be the cutest little munchkins! Hope you guys have a good rest of the week!

DiFazette · July 2016

ETA I deleted my comment in response to the post above because I don't want to make anyone unnecessarily nervous

brittnic86 · July 2016

Thank you everyone. Honestly, I wanted boys lol. But the girls are definetly growing on me. My husband is in love. I don't think there will be matching outfits involved lol. I'm honestly not a fan of pink...more of a purple/red/teal girl lol.

Toller · July 2016

DiFazette said:

ETA I deleted my comment in response to the post above because I don't want to make anyone unnecessarily nervous

Sometimes it's hard to figure out where the line is between causing possible anxiety and the value of knowledge!!

In other news: I was sure we'd have a new groupie who found out about twins at their A/S!

but doesn't look like it so far....

DiFazette · July 2016

@Toller02 yes. In other groups I'm part of we have trigger warnings for that kind of info. I'm now stressed out about something I wasn't expecting to read. I know it wasn't posted with bad intent. I have read enough to guess what the issue mentioned was and thought I could dispel some concern since none of us are in that boat, but talking about loss is such a sensitive thing that I didn't want to contribute to a trigger so I deleted.

So you thought we'd have someone else with twins?

Toller · July 2016

@DiFazette are you part of other multiples-specific boards? I think that would be helpful since we're kind of limited to our posts here (in regards to multiples). I'm interested in what you had to say about it, so if you want to, you can PM me it!

Yea- thought that would be a fun surprise for someone! (insert evil grin hehe), but I suppose most people get an early ultrasound these days...

Amecsey · July 2016

Hey guys, I didn't mean to make anyone nervous! I'm sure we're all worrying about everything else anyways. It's just been on my mind today and wanted to remind us to focus on how amazing all of these twins are! We are all so lucky!

DiFazette · July 2016

@Toller02 I'm part of a local twins group that has a small fee but also offers a Facebook group for support, multiples consignment sales, play dates and discounted events in the city.

I'm also part of a group called Moms of Twins on Facebook. The trigger warnings I was referring to come from TTGP (Trying to get pregnant) and a private group I'm part of on the bump.

Toller · July 2016

How much exercise are you ladies getting? I'm going to talk to my doc next appointment, but just curious what the general consensus is. I know everyone has different thresholds/conditions.

I feel like walking around is enough to wear me out (but I might also still be gun shy from my spotting in early pregnancy). Just wondering if I'm being too easy on myself (I have no known issues at this time) or if growing 2 people is enough exercise

DiFazette · July 2016

@Toller02 not enough honestly - it's too damn hot out and I refuse to go to a gym and walk on a treadmill.

brittnic86 · August 2016

@Toller02 I actually walked my dog tonight for the first time since getting pregnant. Lol.

Also, I think we decided on names! Olivia and Sophia ❤️

DiFazette · August 2016

@brittnic86 my two favorite girl names!!! If we had girls we'd probably be naming our babies the same thing.

Toller · August 2016

@brittnic86& @DiFazette you guys are really doing awesome in the name department!!

Maybe a good GTKY Q for us would be your greatest worries for raising your twins and what you're most excited about? Could probably do that one a few times (or a more eloquent version of it), because I'm sure things will change!

Amecsey · August 2016

Is anyone else still in denial about there actually being two? I feel overwhelmed just thinking about December and what is coming.

brittnic86 · August 2016

@DiFazette So we decided on those names over the weekend, and I've fallen in love with them, and picture our little girls with those names...then find out they're two of the most popular baby names -_- Oh well I guess. We don't personally know anyone with those names....I have a popular name....lol.

Amecsey · August 2016

@brittnic86 I have stopped paying attention to the most common names lists. The names you picked out are beautiful!

brittnic86 · August 2016

@Amecsey Thank you! I was thinking about how our parents had it pretty easy, with the lack of the internet when naming us lol.

Want a personalized experience?

Moms of Multiples - 7.18.16

Re: Moms of Multiples - 7.18.16

Choose Another Board

Search Boards