3rd Trimester Check-In | Week of 7/30

[Deleted User] · July 2018

Hi @2MomsHoping <img alt="" src="https://forums.thebump.com/resources/emoji/smile.png" height="20"> I don't have too much longer to go yet either, but I noticed no one had posted this week's thread yet, and I'm off today, so I figured why not!? ;)
<p>
This is a weekly check in for the mamas who have made it to the 3rd
trimester!!! If you are in week 28 or past, feel free to join in on the
weekly fun. </p>

<ul><li>How far along? EDD?</li><li>How is everyone feeling this week? </li><li>Any upcoming appointments? </li><li>GTKY: Summer fun! What have you been doing to enjoy the season before baby arrives?
</li><li>As always feel free to share pictures of your bump,
nurseries, baby gear, and of course those babies when they arrive!</li></ul>

If you're just joining us please
post a:
<ul><li>Mini synopsis in your first post with your EDD</li><li>How many babies you are pregnant with</li><li>If you know the gender(s)</li><li>How you have been feeling in your 3rd tri</li><li>Any upcoming or recent appointments you may have</li></ul>

Please let me know if you need
to be added to the list below:
<a rel="nofollow" href="https://forums.thebump.com/profile/Irisheyes81">@Irisheyes81</a> EDD
8/4 with a little girl

<a rel="nofollow" href="https://forums.thebump.com/profile/2MomsHoping">@2MomsHoping</a> EDD 8/12 team green

<a rel="nofollow" href="https://forums.thebump.com/profile/laurad75">@laurad75</a> EDD 8/20 with a little
boy

<a rel="nofollow" href="https://forums.thebump.com/profile/sarcasticowl">@sarcasticowl</a> EDD 8/23 with a
little girl

<a rel="nofollow" href="https://forums.thebump.com/profile/lablover78">@lablover78</a> EDD 9/1 with a little boy

<a rel="nofollow" href="https://forums.thebump.com/profile/hottietoddie">@hottietoddie</a> EDD 9/5 with a little boy

<a rel="nofollow" href="https://forums.thebump.com/profile/gfgrump">@gfgrump</a> EDD
9/6 with a little boy

<a rel="nofollow" href="https://forums.thebump.com/profile/sarzee2">@sarzee2</a> EDD 9/10 (inducing early 9/4 or
9/5) team green

<a rel="nofollow" href="https://forums.thebump.com/profile/BusinessWife">@BusinessWife</a> EDD 9/9 team green

<a rel="nofollow" href="https://forums.thebump.com/profile/adirat">@adirat</a> EDD
9/15 with a little boy

<a rel="nofollow" href="https://forums.thebump.com/profile/chicandbubbly">@chicandbubbly</a> EDD 10/1 with a little girl

<a rel="nofollow" href="https://forums.thebump.com/profile/halfanewt">@halfanewt</a>
EDD 10/3 team green
<a rel="nofollow" href="https://forums.thebump.com/profile/klyn7">@klyn7</a> EDD
10/6/18 team green
@Dragonfly6191 EDD 10/12 b/g twins!

Irisheyes81 · July 2018

thanks @BusinessWife for starting the thread! I didn't see anyone jump on either. We are all so close.

How far along? EDD? 39 weeks and 2 days. EDD is August 4th and Induction is August 5th
How is everyone feeling this week? Big, ready, anxious and excited.
Any upcoming appointments? Wednesday is my first cervical check and last OB visit.
GTKY: Summer fun! What have you been doing to enjoy the season before baby arrives? I was on 'bed rest' at home for swelling so netflix. I'm so bored
Here is my before and after. I didn't really post bumpdates because I gained 56 lbs and really just didn't feel good about anything going on. My whole body is covered in water. Head.to.toe bloat. I am trying to love my body though, because it's about to go through some sh*t this week so here is my bump haha.

[Deleted User] · July 2018

So excited for you! @Irisheyes81 You are getting so close! and you look great, too. <3 Even if you don't feel super hot atm. ;)

2MomsHoping · July 2018

@buisnesswife thanks for starting the thread this week!

@Irisheyes81 you look wonderful!!! all I see is baby bump. Your body is doing something super amazing and I can't wait to see a picture of that baby and hear your birth story. This week your going to be a mama! How crazy is that?!?!

How far along? EDD? 38w1d

How is everyone feeling this week? I seem to be in a weird pattern menstrual type cramps that come on for an hour or two then leave. Mostly seems to happen at night, they wake me up but I’m usually able to get back to sleep. My doula promised me I will NOT sleep through real labor which makes sense but somehow I needed to hear it. The foot/calf swelling for the left got so bad this weekend (discolored and tingling) I ended up going to Walgreens at like 11pm to check my blood pressure because I was getting worried (it was fine). I have been trying several swollen foot remedies (Epsom salt soak, a variety of essential oils, LOTS of water, compression socks, elevation) not sure what worked but my left foot looks almost normal...my right is better than was but almost looks more worse since lefty has ankle bones again.

Any upcoming appointments? Thursday just a regular check-up as far as I know.

GTKY: Summer fun! What have you been doing to enjoy the season before baby arrives? We have been way too social! Lots of getting together with friends for brunch or dinner while we still can easily which is probably why my house isn't ready for baby. Usually our summer is filled with movies/concerts in the parks, beach days, and zoo and botanical garden trips. We’ve basically done none of that. I actually really wanted to go to one of the free concerts downtown tonight…it’s a beautiful day (mid-70s perfect) but too much to do tonight, and doing things that gets me home at 11pm on a weeknight just really doesn’t work out well for me anyway these days. We did decide this weekend that baby’s first outing (besides the pediatrician) will be to the botanical garden so at least we have that to look forward to! Or I could just be delusional that we will actually follow through on that.

As always feel free to share pictures of your bump, nurseries, baby gear, and of course those babies when they arrive!

I just wanted to share a resource for birth plans I found. We did one with icons and then just added text for the important things or things we couldn’t find icons for. I thought it made it a lot easier and faster to read and kept me from my normal wordiness. There are several out there but this one was free and easy. https://aurorachristy.com/blog/2016/6/1/visual-birth-plans-birth-plans-nurses-dont-hate I didn’t format mine as pretty as they did in the example but I also spent less than an hour putting it together so that was a bonus. I put a copy of mine in the spoiler in case anyone is interested.

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5020794/uploads/editor/5e/g300kecq6g84.jpg

gfgrump · July 2018

Hi all,
How far along? EDD?
34w 4d
How is everyone feeling this week?
I'm feeling fine. Back pain has chilled out a little. It does sort of feel like the baby is in my pelvis, but I can't quite tell if it has dropped. I kind of think I would know, right?
Any upcoming appointments?
Just had a quick OB appt today. Everything looked good. Bump measured 36cm, which seems fine. My OB was back from maternity leave, so it was nice to have her back. We asked a bunch of questions around the birth, which helped. I have another NST wednesday. I also found out that they will induce at 41 weeks if I haven't gone into labor by then, so I feel more calm know exactly how far I'll go. If that happened, it's possible I'd end up giving birth on my bday. How funny would that be? But I'm very hopeful it will be earlier than that, eh?
GTKY: Summer fun! What have you been doing to enjoy the season before baby arrives?
Sadly, not enough. I had some fun times when my friends were here. The fog has been really bringing me down and it just makes it unpleasant to be outside. Course, it's supposed to start getting nice just as I have to go back to work. But I've definitely been taking advantage of time to do whatever I want-- go to prenatal yoga, sew, run errands, and it's nice not to be working during most of the third tri. I've been working on a quilt for the baby which will hopefully be done soon, and I'll post a pic.

@Irisheyes81 I think you look great too. That baby looks pretty ready to go! Can't wait for you to meet her.

@2MomsHoping that sounds real crazy about your foot. Glad it is doing better.

@BusinessWife DH has been reading The Birth Partner, which has kind of spurred him into action. So you may want to give that book to your husband to read. This morning he was like, "we have a lot to do!" like first thing when I got up. So maybe that will help light the fire for your husband. Hope you are getting a lot done while off work. I feel like it's been a slow ramp up process and then when I started having a lot of contractions I was like, uh, we might need to get our butts in gear.

[Deleted User] · July 2018

@gfgrump ah! We have that book! Not that DH has started reading it... lol. But that's a good idea to break that out again.

Luckily for us, a big part of our roadblock has been lifted. DH had been waiting to get paid for a significant amount of work, and a check finally came in! Such a huge relief. I think that has been weighing highly on both of us. But with that ready to take to the bank, he actually went up and spent some time clearing out the room with me this evening, (which is turning out to be more tedious than I know he would have preferred, but it's gotten so full of all these little odd items and boxes we needed to go through), and even let me pull the trigger on the furniture! Believe it or not, the bed (for us) and matching dresser (for baby) both came back in stock early! What are the chances. So all this good nursery setup stuff, changing pad, hampers, decals etc. are all on their way.

I could just sing, I'm so happy!

lablover78 · July 2018

Hi ladies, thanks @BusinessWife for posting the thread. I’m 35+2 and so relieved I made it through my last work trip- this one has been hanging over my head. I’m exhausted though.

I see OB Wednesday and NST on Friday- both docs have me on a weekly schedule now. I guess being able to leave for appts when I want is the plus to being self-employed - which I’m trying to focus on as everyone who asks about maternity leave is making me feel cray when I try to explain I can’t take a proper one but will do a lot from home and will be doing a play-it-by-ear approach since I have no idea what life will look like and how much I can handle. They all get wide eyed and tell me I’m nuts.

Summer has been boring over here! We try to travel and do lots of pool parties. I am so tired on the weekends and feel physically unable to handle much of anything.

I bought our travel system on Saturday- Graco Modes LX and it does not latch when folded because of what I believe is a defect. Back the store it goes and I’m quite frustrated!

Sorry about all the complaining - I didn’t even realize but it all came pouring out.

@Irisheyes81 I love it!!!! Good luck mama.

laurad75 · July 2018

@Irisheyes81 You look terrific!

@BusinessWife I'm sorry you are so stressed out. It sounds like things are coming together now so hopefully that will ease your anxiety.

How far along? EDD? 37+1 today, EDD 8/20
How is everyone feeling this week? I feel okay but different. I'm feeling more pressure in my pelvis so I know he is dropping. I have started working from home two days a week which is really helpful to my comfort.
Any upcoming appointments? I have weekly appts now so later this morning I'll go for an us and ob check. I'm hoping for another boring and non-eventful appt especially since my ob is away and I'm seeing a different doctor.
GTKY: Summer fun! What have you been doing to enjoy the season before baby arrives? We've been so busy with weekends away and house guests that its made the time fly by.

It's taken me forever to find someone to do our car seat inspection so now I have to pay a fancy agency $150 to do it. I wish I felt more confident in our abilities and we would just skip it but I do think this is important. At least they will come to our house which is convenient.

[Deleted User] · July 2018

Oh no! @laurad75. That sounds crazy. They won't do it at the hospital for you? That's what she recommended at our tour, just calling ahead and coming in to do it during regular business hours, in case you deliver on a weekend.

Dragonfly6191 · July 2018

@BusinessWife will you add me to the list? 10/12/18 b/g twins

How far along? EDD? 29 weeks, 4 days
How is everyone feeling this week? Just exhausted. My baby shower was yesterday and we've had family/friends staying at our house for over a week now in addition to the party. My dad and grandma left this morning and I am just SO excited to go home to a quiet, empty house. I haven't been sleeping well at all which has not helped.
Any upcoming appointments? Had an MFM scan yesterday to double check growth. Last week they told us Baby A was 33rd percentile and Baby B was less than 5th; yesterday it was still 33rd for Baby A but 18th for Baby B? Hoping yesterday's is correct but even my doctor is confused. At this point we just wait for next weeks scan and see what happens.
GTKY: Summer fun! What have you been doing to enjoy the season before baby arrives? We own a boat so we literally just live on the lake on the weekends during the summer. I keep thinking my boating days are numbered but so far so good! Summer is my FAVORITE
Unnecessary baby shower photo below!

chicandbubbly · July 2018

How far along? EDD? 31 weeks and a few days!

How is everyone feeling this week? I am feeling good- I have been having a lot of braxton hicks that have been uncomfortable but feeling pretty good overall! I have been pretty MIA from these boards lately unfortunately! We have been super busy and it's only getting busier around here! I cannot believe it's August 1st tomorrow- time is seriously flying by.
Any upcoming appointments? I have a Chiro appt this week and an ultrasound on Fri- it's a growth scan. She was on the smaller side my last ultrasound and my measurements have been on the smaller end the last few appts so my OB is just checking though she isn't really concerned. I think baby will just be small due to genetics. My son was small- 6 lbs, 1.5 oz when he was born at 38 weeks but we will see!
GTKY: Summer fun! What have you been doing to enjoy the season before baby arrives? I have been doing so much with my son who is almost 18 months... zoo, playdates, water play, playground, library, boating etc.

@irisheyes81 and @dragonfly6191 you both look amazing!!

Here is my bump pic this week because honestly I will forget to post for HDBD tomorrow lol!

sarzee2 · July 2018

@Irisheyes81 You look awesome!! I know you probably feel like crap, but honestly you look great! I hope you're able to relax and enjoy this last week!

@2MomsHoping It makes me feel better to hear that your midwife said you will definitely NOT sleep through real labor! Obviously I'm not as far along as you, but I also get period-type cramps and I'm like do I need to be worried?

@Dragonfly6191 You look gorgeous! Love your dress and I hope the shower was amazing! I hope you get some clarity at your next scan re: the actual percentiles of your twins!

AFM, 34+1, EDD 9/10
Regular OB appointment tomorrow and then scan at the hospital on Thursday.

GTKY: I've been in such a terrible Debbie Downer mood lately that I can't even think of anything fun we've done this summer. We've had so many weddings where I have to answer the constant "how are you feeeeeeeeling are you exciiiiiiiiiiited" questions and being reminded that I can't drink, and then I feel like every free weekend has just been getting stuff ready for baby.

Team Green ladies...I'm kind of having a crisis of faith that I could use some help with. I've always been really adamant about not finding out the gender. People tell me all the time they think I'm having a boy because I'm carrying small and never had any sickness. And I feel like the more time that has gone by, the more I'm picturing having a boy. DH and I are like 99% sure on a boys name, but have barely discussed girls names. I thought that not finding out until the baby is delivered would mean that I'd be so excited that I just couldn't be disappointed. But now I feel like I've built it up in my head so much that I'm definitely having a boy that I'm starting to doubt that. I would feel awful if I go through labor and they say "it's a girl!" and my first thought is "oh f*ck". So DH and I have been talking about maybe finding out at our scan in a couple of days, but I feel really conflicted about giving in this late in the game. Is anyone having similar thoughts, or feeling really "sure" about one gender or the other? Any advice would be great!

chicandbubbly · July 2018

So last week a few of you were talking about packing the hospital bag so here is my experience from my 1st birth. I over packed and over prepared, but I also had a really short labor (3 hours) so a lot of the stuff I didn't end up using may have been helpful had I had a longer labor!! Also personally I wanted to be in my own clothes immediately after labor, some choose to just wear the hospital gown and change right before going home so it's your own preference

. Same thing for baby, I immediately changed him into our own clothes, hats, and swaddles but plenty just leave them in the hospital swaddles so it's up to you!

WARNING this is super long....but hopefully it will help someone lol.

My #1 must- have item was noise cancelling headphones. Literally these got me through a no epidural birth.

Packing List:
For me-

Contacts/glasses
Toiletries- dry shampoo, face wipes, toothbrush/paste, chapstick, deodorant, travel size body wash, (shampoo/conditioner if you plan to wash hair- I didn't but was only there one night), makeup, hair elastics, brush, lotion
Clothes- robe, warm socks or slippers, loose sweats, yoga pants or pajama pants or nightgown (black), nursing tanks/bras/sleep bra, cardigan sweater, comfy outfit to wear home. Flip flops for shower.
Electronics- cellphone (obviously), charger with long cord. I brought my Kindle but didn't use it.
Pillow/blanket
Hospital supplied a bunch of postpartum supplies- take any leftovers home or ask for more!! Also take the colace!!!
Any meds you take
Magazine

For DH-

Sweatpants/shirts
Bathing suit -didn't use but packed in case I decide to labor in the shower/bath and he wants to get in with me lol.
Toothbrush/deodorant etc.
Any medications needed.
Phone charger/tablet

For Baby-

Clothing- swaddles x2, warmer blanket, socks, sleepers, going home outfit, hats/bows, mittens, baby book (for footprints), car seat..
Pacifier (personal preference as well, we used one basically from day one and we breastfed and had no nipple confusion.
Our hospital supplied all diapers, wipes, etc so we didn't pack these.

Other things we found helpful-

LOTS of snacks
Foaming hand sanitizer
Gifts for nurses- I did this and plan to do it again. I just put together a big box of snacks for them with a note thanking them... they all loved it.

Things I packed but didn't use-

water cup (just used theirs but this time I will pack my YETI)
nipple cream/nursing pads- my milk didn't come in until a few days after birth so I didn't need this.
massager, essential oils, and other things for labor- didn't need them.
Tea

2MomsHoping · July 2018

@gfgrump I can’t wait for quilt pictures! I made just a couple little things for baby but never could get my full blanket off the ground Oh well I did have a couple baby blankets I made for others but I got a little too attached and kept for myself, and had to make them a different one. I felt a little bad about it at the time but now I’m really glad I have them.

@businesswife yay to buying all the things and being lucky that they are in stock. I’m so glad things are working out better than you thought they would. I hope everything makes it to your doorstep soon. I’m sure you’ll feel better when things are more in place.

@lablover78 when your self-employeed what else could you do but play it by ear? I mean no one wants to go back to work right away maybe they don’t think your crazy so much as thinking geeze that’s going to be really hard on you. It just seems new motherhood turns your life upside down no matter who you are. We all will figure out our new normal in time don’t let them discourage you.

@laurad75 I don’t know if you already paid but in our area the fire department does it (and I think police stations). I think many hospitals do it as well. In our system you can make an appointment or they have “car seat events” one Saturday a month where they do car seat trade ups, inspections, and stuff like that.

@dragonfly6191 you are glowing!!! You and (I assume your hubby) look so adorable and excited. LOVE IT! Glad to hear that baby b is looking a little better hoping that that first scan was just a fluke. The more I hear the less and less I trust ultrasound results. Fx for next weeks scan. Your boating days aren’t numbered all you need is a baby life jacket and some floppy hats. Kids love the water. My parents live on a lake I’m planning on taking the baby to one of those throw them in the water and teach them how to float classes. When I first watched the vidoes for them it was insanely frightening but it seems to be mostly off instinct and can give you the time you need to rescue if something were to happen.

@chicandbubbly you look great!

[Deleted User] · July 2018

Welcome @Dragonfly6191 and Congrats on your twins, and a beautiful shower!!!

@sarzee2. It is such a tough call, and you are so close! Would you still keep it under wraps for family / friends?

We have only told a "stranger" here or there lol (chiro, aesthetician etc.) But I was grateful none of the shower games were around guessing the sex. Huge relief just not to have to go there. So far, we've received mostly neutral stuff that can be used for any future kids no problem (yay!) And only maybe an outfit or two that seemed overtly boy or overtly girl. So that was part of what I wanted in staying team green. And partly the surprise for our family. I just personally missed out on that delivery room moment with DH, so hopefully we will be lucky enough to have that in the future. :/ but I will say, now that I do know? ...it is fun. We got to stop worrying about the other sex name, start picturing the baby even moreso, and referring to the baby by name, baby's room etc. Treating myself to secret little gendered items. It's fun! Would I go back and unsee that computer screen if I could? Ugh... it's so hard, bc like I said, it took several weeks to get there, but now I am glad that we know, and I can't go back in time anyway, so I had to just accept it.

But you are so close tho - you know yourself. What is more important to you? Having that delivery room reveal moment? Or being able to relax into your (possibly correct) gut feeling, or have time to adjust to a new vision ahead of time, if your suspicions were wrong? I don't think anyone can make that decision for you. But the truth is, too, and what helped DH stay team green with me in the beginning, was the knowledge that baby already is what/who baby is. Knowing or not knowing will not change the sex of that beautiful baby who's already alive and kicking inside you!

hottietoddy · July 2018

@2MomsHoping thanks for the tip from your doula, I have been having Braxton Hicks every night before bed and I keep falling asleep during them. When I wake up they are gone. My perinatal doctor said they commonly happen in evening.

@lablover78- you are doing great and what an amazing mom to be pregnant or have just had baby and still working also. You'll be able to see what works for you and maybe you'll pare back naturally if you feel it is right when you feel it is right.

@BusinessWife so gladglad are having fun with the nursery setup and your furniture is on the way! We also had so much clutter and boxes. I started making it a priority to clean those up and feel much better now.

How far along? EDD? August 14-21st

How is everyone feeling this week? Ok, having Braxton Hicks. Actually laying in bed now with them. They've been inconsistent for last hour and stopping now. I also wonder if some aren't gas or the baby stretching. I'm supposed to call my OB if they are 5-10 mins apart consistently for an hour....I don't feel they are consistent enough to make a big deal about it.

Any upcoming appointments? Had perinatal appointment today. Things were boring and the same. She said things look great and she thinks I have a good chance of vaginal delivery. I'm pretty glad about that, I know things can change but I've got a good start.

GTKY: Summer fun! What have you been doing to enjoy the season before baby arrives? I am trying to relax and have more fun it's just hard when on home rest. I guess we've been going out to eat which is exciting.

As always feel free to share pictures of your bump, nurseries, baby gear, and of course those babies when they arrive! My husband and I took some maternity photos last weekend. It was exhausting and I'm glad we are done. I'll share some soon. Also been continuing to clean and organize my nest! Haha. Now I've moved on to our storage and starting to give things away we don't need. Most is stock from a succulent side business I had last year. We won't be doing it again so time to let go and make room for baby storage and more room in our garage.

gfgrump · July 2018

@Dragonfly6191 I hope the new numbers are the right ones. Crossing everything for you that those twins get bigger and stronger everyday. I think you guys are going to have some beautiful children. The shower looks like it was awesome.

@sarzee2 I don't have any advice since I've know the gender since we transferred this embryo, but I can tell you that I think it's totally normal to have some disappointment around gender at times. I think you just have to decide what's right for you. I do get annoyed that people always ask what I'm having. Like, what are you really going to say once I tell you? I know it's a little thing, but it just annoys me. I do want to have a girl someday, but who knows, it may not be in the cards.

@chicandbubbly thanks for the list. We are going to actually try to get a bag together soon. Although I feel like I have a while, but who knows. It would be good to be prepared. It's funny that you say the noise cancelling headphones. I told that to DH, who was like, those are so expensive! And no other list has that on it. I'm like idk, this woman on my board says they're a must have. We'll see. Also, you are looking awesome! I love the cute sign you have. We're not nearly that together.

And I finished my quilt. It was a good little project, now I need to decide what to make next.

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5020794/uploads/editor/qh/pn3sb8631sml.jpg

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5020794/uploads/editor/3r/a19sbmo5rc7p.jpg

Image: https://us.v-cdn.net/5020794/uploads/editor/7g/jw1vzh7w886x.jpg

[Deleted User] · August 2018

@gfgrump. Your baby quilt is adorable! I am... not that skilled. Lol my MIL made me a gorgeous couple baby quilts I may just have to AW via PM, once I get around to taking pics. She is so talented! Also made a whole set of matching quilted bibs and paci clips, as well as a white minky-dot nb outfit. Makes me feel less guilty about not having made anything for baby myself (yet), since at least she's been spoiled that way by MIL and my Godmother.

<b>Appointment Update</b>: 34 week MW appointment went well! My weight is holding steady, thank goodness, but it turns out I may still have another scan at 38 weeks anyway, only bc my pregnant BMI is 35+. And I don't see myself dropping 25 lbs in the next four weeks. Unbelievable.

But fundal height is still measuring consistently 1+ at 35, baby is still, in fact, head down (!!!), baby's got a strong heartbeat, and no concerning symptoms on my end.

I will see the doctor again in two weeks for my GBS test, and then go to weekly appointments thereafter. It's getting so real!

lablover78 · August 2018

@BusinessWife yay to head down! I think your advice to @sarzee2 was good.

@sarzee2 for me I always wanted to know gender and also thought I was of the “whatever it is I am going to be escstatic” camp. However when I saw it was a boy it actually took me a few days to adjust. I didn’t realize I had actually been picturing a girl the entire time. Now I’m so happy I can’t imagine having anything but a boy but I am glad I had the time to adjust before he actually arrived. Good luck mama!

2MomsHoping · August 2018

@sarzee2 being a team green myself with an ultrasound (did I or didn’t I see something) I’m so convinced we are having a boy that I also would be like what are you sure?!? If they hand me a girl. I guess I figure I would feel more shocked than disappointed. I’ve always imagined having a boy so thinking its a boy is very comfortable. This weekend we bought one boy and one girl going home outfit and buying that kinda made me imagine having a girl. I was surprised at how happy I was at that thought. Then I got kinda sad that I had to have one or the other because I want both. What can I say hormones.

@chicandbubbly thank you so much for the list. I think I may need to buy some noise canceling headphone. I’ve been wanting some anyway. I think I have most things packed for me but nothing for baby yet.

hottietoddy · August 2018

@sarzee2 - I also learned the baby's gender asap at 10 weeks with a blood test, so I don't have advice to give. But it sounds like it might be a creative compromise and could be nice to know now for you and your hubby, but you could just not tell anyone else and stay team green. That could be best of both worlds....allow you to adjust slowly and have some time before the baby is here, but also let you surprise everyone else.

@BusinessWife glad head is down. Our baby is head down also and facing backwards too so in good spot. It was nice knowing that today.

Question: do I have to get the car seat inspection? I thought we can just read the instructions carefully.

In other news: baby is 6 lbs 5oz and I have 2-3 weeks left. He has steadily gained about 1/2 lb per week. So that will make him 7.5lbs- 8lbs when born. Although they say it can be off slightly and is just an estimate. He feels super heavy though....I'm having a hard time walking and riding on the car. He's right on my bladder which hurts, plus these Braxton Hicks don't help. It's been a week of these and I'm like done already....they just scare me and hurt some....sigh....

Also my husband told me my MIL asked to be in the waiting room when baby is born a few weeks ago. She asked randomly one day via text. He told her no and that we are just having them over when we get home. This was the plan, but I might invite them to the hospital to see the baby once he is here and healthy and all is good. But it's up to me and I'm just going to see how I feel at the time. I plan on having my mom there for the cerclage removal and labor but not in the room. My MIL wasn't happy but my husband made it clear it was our decision. I'm proud of him and thankful. My therapist made it very clear it's my choice and I should do exactly what I am 100% comfortable with. I just don't plan to have hospital visitors.

I've gone into a sort of non-apologetic hibernation of sorts this last week. I'm just telling people I don't feel like visiting if I don't and I'm just focusing on myself. I'm not letting my in-laws, my mom, clients or anyone else keep me from being as peaceful and calm as possible. I think this is a good mentality going into having a newborn. My mom told me a lot of people are going to ask for things or have opinions and you just have to go straight forward and say this is what I am doing and not care.

I am still working on wrapping up one large project but other than that I am letting all my clients know I am on maternity leave. I am proud of myself for not letting a client pressure me into helping her yesterday. I had told her I would be available in June and July and not August and she did not listen. I didn't waver though and actually had my friend and the contractor tell her for me. That way I didn't have to stress and he's just going to tell her she has to find another designer. Proud of myself for just sticking up for myself and drawing the boundary.

laurad75 · August 2018

I knew @BusinessWife would have the best answer for @sarzee2 and she did not disappoint. It was important to me to know the baby's sex as early as possible to help me prepare. I have heard arguments for both - some people who have had that amazing 'It's a Boy/Girl!' announcement and some that have admitted it was actually not at all like they pictured and a lot less 'magical', so if you are just counting on that perfect moment and its the only thing holding you back from finding out maybe it is worth reconsidering. I'm not helping.

@chicandbubbly Thank you for the list. I think my bag is mostly done and I will just need to throw in toiletries, toothbrush and basic make up but I think to look at others' lists to see if I'm missing anything or packing stuff I don't need. We are only about 15 min from the hospital so I can always send H back home if I need something or want him to take something home. I may pack a 2nd small bag and leave it at home in case of a c-section and I end up spending a couple of extra nights there.

@gfgrump The quilt is adorable. What a fun project!

@hottietoddy It's not required to get the car seat inspected but I feel like I need to do it for piece of mind. I have spent $150 on far less necessary things.

Appt Update: We had our weekly BPP/ OB check yesterday and I will include a spoiler alert that everything is absolutely fine but he didn't demonstrate his 'practice breathing' as much as they like the baby to (I was told they need to see a min of 30 sec of practice breathing during the exam) so we had to also get an NST. So annoying and I have to admit I didn't have a ton of confidence in the tech doing the ultrasound so I did feel like the NST was unnecessary but I get that its a precaution. So we spent 20 min on the monitor and his HR was perfect plus movement was constant so we rocked that. Here's a photo of me not at all annoyed that the appts were taking forever:

Finally after all the stupid exams I get to go in to see the OB (not mine bc she's on vaca so some stranger with nothing to contribute to my day) but first they send in two nurses who ask all the random 37 week questions including what type of contraceptives we plan on using after the baby is born. Maybe I would have been more patient with this question if I hadn't already been there for over 2 hours but that was not the case so I gave them a look and reminded them that a) I am 43 years old and b) had to pay all the money for donor egg to become pregnant with this baby so this wasn't a concern for us but if they have to put something down in my chart feel free to say condoms. The OB eventually came in, took my fundal measurement and sent me home because there was literally nothing left to discuss. I suppose if I get to leave with no concerns for either me or the baby its a good day but ugh, so annoying.

[Deleted User] · August 2018

Ugh @laurad75. I am super annoyed for you, too! I am already annoyed they want me to get another scan at 38 weeks (I'm fine, baby is fine, just high pregnant bmi. Wtf) so I feel you there. And like, so help me Miss Molly, if they ask me what kind of contraceptives???? I honestly don't know what I will say not to bite their stupid heads off. NFP. That's what I will say. Ughhh, thanks for the heads up on that question, because I know they are just doing their job, but I am also protective of H and his ego when it comes to this stuff, and at a certain point, our dx is nobody's business and has absolutely nothing to do with my healthcare going forward, or this baby. Sheesh.

@hottietoddy Good job on setting boundaries! That is so important. I still haven't had those hospital convos with the inlays. My mom is way out of state, so she will probably not visit till we are home anyway. But the ILs... oh, the ILs... :#

halfanewt · August 2018

@laurad75 glad everything is okay - sorry about the log appointments, though. Those are such a drag. My midwife asked the contraceptive question at my last appointment. I started laughing, hard, until I realized she was serious. Oops.

@Irisheyes81 you look adorable! Exciting weekend ahead of you

@2MomsHoping I love that you already have baby’s first outing planned! Makes me feel better about my tentative travel plans.

@chicandbubbly thanks for the packing list! Adding that to my to-do items.

@sarzee2 also team green, feeling kind of the same way. People are pretty exclusively guessing girl, though boys run very heavy in DHs family. As of now we dont have another US, but if we did I’d be seriously tempted... If you do decide you want to know, it doesn’t mean you have to share with anyone else!

@gfgrump that quilt is adorable!

halfanewt · August 2018

How far along? EDD?
31 weeks today! 10/3

How is everyone feeling this week?
Excited the weather is cooling off. Starting to get nervous about going back to work (end of August) and what working while very pregnant will feel like. I was planning on working until baby arrives, but now I'm starting to question that. Any ideas how accurate the EDD is when you know it's the right date (IVF)?

Any upcoming appointments?
Massage yesterday which was lovely!

GTKY: Summer fun! What have you been doing to enjoy the season before baby arrives?
Summer break for me, so lots of relaxing, kitty snuggle time, and house organizing. Doesn't sound super thrilling when I put it that way, but it's been nice

Doing a road trip/mini-babymoon next week to get some hikes and sightseeing in before I start freezer meal and back to school prep!

laurad75 · August 2018

@halfanewt While there are certainly exceptions to every rule my doctor told me the chances are pretty high that I will deliver close to my due date since we know the right date.

wabash15 · August 2018

**lurking**
@Dragonfly6191 When I was pregnant with B/G twins one was intermittently behind.. at one point there was a greater than 30% difference between the two and there was some concern but at the next scan she had caught right up... she would do this on and off during the pregnancy... I think she just had her growth spurts at different times. in the end they were born within 5oz of each other. so though I know its super scary and hard not to stress, I would just trust your docs and keep watching. with DI/Di the TTTS is so unlikely.
@laurad75 sorry for all the rigmarole with your appointment. I hate the contraception question... read my history... getting pregnant does not happen for me on my own... hugs and I can't believe your so close to the end!!

Irisheyes81 · August 2018

@laurad75 Contraceptives HAHHAHAHAHA that made me laugh so hard. You look awesome. Very patient for a long appointment

hottietoddy · August 2018

@laurad75 I hear ya on the annoying appointments! That question about contraceptives is a touchy one and they should ease into it! After everything you have been through not something they should just say to a lady. I have had the vacation doctor twice now and I wasn't told either time so I could reschedule. It is BS and I even told them very clearly to tell me before hand, which they ignored. The nurse put us literally in the kitchen/break room for the nst yesterday claiming they could no longer use a medical room. I was so annoyed and it took her 10 mins to find the heart beat while I sat up which made me upset because it is scary. I had to hold the sensor on the whole time but he passed. I was really annoyed. But the sono tech is always amazing and the doctor was good. My OB tends to spend so much of my time too it is really annoying like they want me camped out there all day! Good job to you for getting through it and not biting anyone's head off. I was disgruntled but not too bad.

JamieH2000 · August 2018

Lurking-

@laurad75- omg NO they didnt! I guess its standard procedure, but really?! Especially for anyone that had to do IVF and particularly DE IVF! I think I would say it would be a MIRACLE if I got pregnant after and there is no way I am preventing that lol.

2MomsHoping · August 2018

The contraceptives question always kills me! Im sure it’s some standard of care requirement but still for certain circumstances it’s such a burn. I’ve always been tempted to snap back with a bitchy response but I guess I know it’s not their fault they are asking.

@laurad75 that appointment sounds like one hell of a marathon.

With everyone’s doctors stories I almost feel like my docs are super lax. I haven’t had an appointment in a little over two weeks (all the rest have 4-5 weeks). My “weekly appointments” are starting tomorrow are schedule for 38+4 and 39+4 there has been no mention of a nst. They asked if I wanted a 3rd trimester ultrasound but said I didn’t need one so I didn’t get one. I’m so thankful that there hasn’t been cause for concern but for being in the old and higher BMI group I’m a little surprised they aren’t keeping a closer eye on me.

@BusinessWife your midwife group sounds so crazy obsessed with the weight thing i mean wtf?!?

@hottietoddy yay to hubby dealing with the in laws. I think my parents were a little shocked we didn’t want them in the waiting room but they took it well and were ok that we would call them right away so we could head over.

mbradfo2 · August 2018

@2MomsHoping
My OB didn't have the monitoring equipment for a NST in his office but he offered biophysical profile scans upon request -- I didn't 'need' to have them done though (but I did for peace of mind). I'd just ask your OB the next time you're in -- mine didn't bring up doing the biophysical scans until I asked him if I was going to get NST etc.

I'm surprised you weren't classed high risk due to age? I had no reasons to be classified as high risk until the very end of my pregnancy and by then, I had already been admitted to the hospital! So since I wasn't high risk, there wasn't a need for super close monitoring but I did request closer surveillance due to anxiety and my OB was fine with that. I found the lack of surveillance in a "normal" pregnancy somewhat unnerving, honestly, after being seen weekly at the RE's office during my first trimester!

lablover78 · August 2018

Saw my OB today and without warning I think I had a cervical check?? He said I was 1 cm and at 35 weeks my quick consult with Dr. Google appeared that’s pretty normal? Would love some feedback if anyone knows
for sure though.

2MomsHoping · August 2018

@lablover78 that sounds pretty normal to me. They checked me when I had my strep b test because there were there. I think I was around 34 weeks and I wasn’t at all dialated or effaced. From what I’ve read on it it really isn’t much of a sign of labor though. Some women can be dialated and effaced for several weeks before labor others can be nothing and then have their babies the next day. The only thing I did see is that if you have to to be induced if your cervix has started to dialated/efface before induction you are more likely for the induction to work and there is a lower rate of c-section.

@mbradfo2 I think they would test more if I Pushed but honestly if I get information I obsess over it. Everything has been going well and though my pregnancy has been annoying for me it has fortunately been very uneventual for baby. I already decided that if they do a cervical check tomorrow I’m going to ask to not hear results. Basically I don’t want to know unless I have to make a decision about something and then I must know EVERYTHING in excruciating detail. I’ve kinda started to trust my body a little bit more. Being sick a few times this pregnancy it seems my body likes and protects this baby. So me and my uterus seem to be in a stable trusting relationship now. Those ovaries though...still haven’t forgiven them for all the strife they have caused me.

gfgrump · August 2018

@lablover78 I've heard you can be 1cm for like a month. I wouldn't worry too much.
I hear you all about the contraceptive question. I got asked it after my loss in 2016 and both me and DH were like, uh, no I think we're good. If it does happen, we'd be pretty good with it. But yeah, we've had a few times where techs or other medical professionals ask stuff or have been too effusive too early or whatever, and sometimes DH gets triggered and is what I consider to be rude and I try to remember that these people are just trying to do their job. They don't necessarily know our entire history or really understand our experience. And overall I feel like the doctors have been very aware of our history and really great considering we're dealing with a big hospital and often a new MFM each time, so when I have one tech or someone that says something a little off, I try not to worry too much.
Otoh, I do have a friend who is 41 and ended up pregnant with #2 when when #1 was 7 or 8 months I believe. She had just gone back to work and was shocked to say the least. She had also gone through a year of trying to get pregnant and one failed IVF cycle before she also surprisingly wound up pregnant. So could be a little different, since she was able to get pregnant the first time naturally as well. I think now she's happy about it, but it's been an intense couple of months.
But yeah, I'm thinking when they ask me about that the only reason I'd probably consider it is the endometriosis. Because I didn't really have issues until I was off the pill. And then I have the whole issue of possibly taking out my ovaries, but I don't think now is the right time to start thinking about that.
@2MomsHoping so interesting that they aren't doing the NST with you. I thought they were standard for everyone starting at 36 weeks. But if everything looks good, then I wouldn't worry about it.

Any more symptoms?? @Irisheyes81, you?? I'm ready for those babies to get here. Not sure if you are. Hahaha.

laurad75 · August 2018

Thanks for jumping to my defense everyone. Looking back I wish that I was a little more snarky in my answer like when the nurse said, we've seen the miracles here before...challenge: I do not believe you have previously seen a 43 year old woman with an AMH level of under .2 get pregnant spontaneously. Give me a real life example and I will eat my words. The miracle is that we were in a financial position to go the DE route or I wouldn't be here, which btw is hour 2.5 of a 1 hour appointment!

Sorry for the vent but I am sleep deprived and uncomfortable.

2MomsHoping · August 2018

@gfgrump just finished up my appointment they said they would do the nst starting on my “due date” appointment they did do a cervical check today it was not comfortable.

I think my weepy pregnancy hormones have turned to grumpy ones. I want to yell at everyone and I’m not a yeller. I’ve now come to accept that my bump is never really showing up it’s kinda there and it’s nice that strangers arent commenting/staring/touching me. But the look of shock people have when I say my due date is annoying and I think work keeps forgetting how pregnant I am. I mean just yesterday my chair asked me to present at a faculty meeting next week (I’ll be 39+4). I don’t really feel like peeping something on short notice when I’m desperatly trying to put plans into place. I plan to wing it if I’m here and just hope I’m not. Everyone keeps saying I have plenty of time. Ummm no. Just because I don’t look like I’m going to teeter over doesn’t mean this baby is going to cook for another 3months. It’s like the small of my back has turned into a flat slab of baby which isn’t as noticeable but still desperatly uncomfortable. I don’t know why I’m letting this bother me so much. Ohhh correction weepy hormones have returned.

@irisheyes81 been thinking about you. Hope you are surviving these last few days.

Irisheyes81 · August 2018

Hey guys. Just checking in. I had my cervical check yesterday. Closed. Looks like this little darling is going to wait for her induction. They talked about this "walking epidural" thing. Has anyone heard of that? Sounded pretty cool but I don't know.

@2MomsHoping hugs. People are dumb. They say and do insensitive things. It's either a small pregnant person gets the treatment you do or a huge pregnant person gets asked if they are having twins tomorrow. It doesn't make it better. I had a co worker ask today if I could call a few clients and carry a chair to a different room. Um, it's my last day.

@gfgrump The only symptom I have is lightning. I really think I'd go another two weeks without an induction. I am so excited for all these babies too!! Little leo babies.

2MomsHoping · August 2018

@Irisheyes81 they asked you to carry a chair?!? Are both their arms and legs broken? Insane. I have heard of a walking epidural. I don’t know much about it except that you can’t really walk with it as the name implies (I found this very dissapointing). You would still be in bed BUT you should have enough feeling/strength to change positions on your own if you needed to for labor/pushing. So it can help things to progress a bit better than the traditional one.

hottietoddy · August 2018

@laurad75 no apologies needed! You are pretty entitled...I wish you had said that stuff you wrote. I get these people are all doing their jobs, but they've got to understand that being compassionate and careful what they say is part of their job. It's called bedside manner people.

Hugs @2MomsHoping! I also want to yell at everyone, a friend of mine with 3 kids says it is 'pregnancy rage' which is a real thing! Lol. It sounds to me like you look great and are functioning so well at work that coworkers can't tell you are even pregnant so just keep asking for more. One thought, it might be time to start telling people no on a few things....even if you don't have to do them the stress of planning or having to discuss or even wiggle out of them at the last moment is significant. Just take care of yourself first! You are clearly doing an amazing job. Here I am barely working and limping around and in wheelchairs....

I'm not going to go into a rant too much about pregnancy leave, but it is even more clear to me now just how messed up our country is. 12 weeks is not enough and women need a few weeks before the baby comes. Also fathers need more time also. My husband gets just his vacation then he can take unpaid leave, but we can't afford that. He is just going to work from home instead 2 days a week. It's rediculous really we have to worry about keeping our jobs AND make a new human being.

I'm glad I'm not the only one going to be limiting the waiting room. @2MomsHoping are you having anyone in the waiting room? It seems antiquated to me. This isn't a party people, it's a very challenging stressful medical procedure where I push something out of my body. I plan to have my mom around for support for me and logistical reasons to help. It's not for her fun. And I guess her boyfriend just for company for her in the waiting room as well. He is a very calming person and helps keep her calm and taken care of. I might have DH's parents come to the hospital and meet the baby if all is calm and easy, if not they can wait until we get home.

I'm pretty frustrated with work also, 2 of my clients wont pay me for work already completed. I wrote them strongly worded emails telling them I cannot wait due to needing to pay medical expenses and going on unpaid maternity leave. 1 apologized and said he'd pay today but hasn't yet....1 of them is completely radio silent after I've asked for payment twice and told them dates to have the baby. I can't believe they can't even say, sorry, good luck or something! I'm pretty offended and considering quitting working with them. I think they are just giving me space and they really can't afford to pay currently and need a bit more time. Then that same lady was still trying to bully me into calling and helping her today.... I told her by email that I'm on maternity leave and cannot help she has to find someone else. I told her I cannot talk to her by phone or text at this time. I'm trying to just say no, set boundaries and move on. But after writing collection emails yesterday I was so anxious I had to lie down. So I hear ya....

@Irisheyes81 excited for you! Glad you are hanging in there

@lablover78 wow 1cm that's interesting. My OB told me last week once you get to 34 weeks they can't measure your cervix anymore because it can be short and still not mean anything. Glad all is ok and they are checking it.

I also heard the manual cervical check is painful... So I'm nervous about that. The perinatal said sometimes you can have bleeding if they check manually if baby has dropped and what not. So just fyi....she might be mentioning a more thorough check though like when you are checking for going into labor.

UPDATE: Today my OB scheduled my induction. I go in Aug 20th in the evening (I can eat all day before, which I asked haha) and they give me something to soften the cervix overnight. Then they will induce Aug 21st. Apparently my Dr leaves Aug 22nd out of town???! I'm going to call and clarify that tomorrow. I also told my OB I'm getting the spinal for my cerclage removal. He wasnt judgemental thank goodness. I still feel like I'm not as strong as other women who can do without, but I know my body. I've literally been told before after prodecures that next time I should get anethesia....well f that man, after all I've been through I don't need any unnecessary pain.

In other news our AC went out last night again....I barely slept last night. I did pretty well, I made it to 10:30am Dr appointment and didn't yell at my husband although VERY tired and stressed. This time it was only a $150 capacitor replacement, but my husband and I picked up a portable unit with a hose to the window. It was $290 but now we have it today while the house cools back down and we can use it for the babies room too a bit which seems to heat up in the afternoon beyond control. Also if the AC goes out and we have an infant I'm going to be even more stressed so this is a good plan b. The guy said we don't need a new unit, I guess it is just a series of unfortunate events for an older outside unit and record breaking summer. I'm so glad it was only 95 today and not 105-110 those days were scary for a pregnant lady.

lablover78 · August 2018

Yes the cervix check was not comfortable but it only lasted a few seconds- my OB did warn it could cause spotting as well. Thanks for the info ladies! @2MomsHoping I am also having the rage. Sorry your work is basically forgetting how pg you are! I’m having the opposite experience over here where people actually laugh when they see me (front desk clerk at my hearing office yesterday and then say when are you taking your leave, do I need to call a dr?) ask if I’m heading to the hospital, ask if I’m sure I’m not having twins etc etc.....and these are random strangers. Anyway we are all so close- I keep trying to remind myself when I want to throat punch ppl

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