Visit to Ultrasound School

Yesterday, Feb. 20th, I went to my appointment at the Ultrasound School in Ontario. It was an hour long appointment where I got to watch my lil peanut. It was an amazing experience! I've had ultrasounds through my Dr. a few times before, but nothing like this. I was able to watch my lil one for an hour while the student and her instructor took different measurements, looked at the baby from all different angels, took a few still shots for me, and searched to determine gender. They are unable to diagnose or give you "for sure" answers, in order to protect themselves, which is understandable.
My lil peanut loves to snuggle up on my left hip, transverse and breech. When I'm laying on my back, the baby is sitting, bottom on my spine, and the head up towards my skin. Peanut sits in a V position, feet up by the head, which looks pretty uncomfortable but Peanut loves it! :) It is also very active. My appointment was at 10am and the baby was wiggling, squirming, and moving all around. After an hour of looking, they said it looks like a girl (and no boy parts were found), but "they can't say for sure". Peanut kept opening, closing, crossing, and moving its legs so getting a good look was difficult. In order to determine sex, they look for a penis (male) or three distinct lines between the legs, which show the vagina (female). The student and instructor said they saw the lines two different times, but were unable to get a still shot because the baby was moving. So, we'll just have to wait until my 2nd trimester ultrasound on Thursday to know for sure! I'm trying not to get too excited until it is confirmed! I hope it is a girl, but all I really pray for is a healthy baby! :)
<3

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Going on from here

Two weeks past the event. I have accepted the reality of the miscarriage but I didn't think I'd still be dealing with the physical aspect of it. How can I go on to the next part of my grief and loss while I'm still suffering the bleeding and other side effects of it all.
Today I went to the gym for the first time in two weeks and I gave myself a good work-over, There was no worry about how hard I pushed those weights because I know my body needs to be pushed now. i need to feel like I can control how much,I can control how long, and I can control when and where. That's basically what I'm feeling now, my body is out of control and I feel completely betrayed by it.
I can't even trust it to do the typical miscarriage, I have endure prolonged bleeding cramping and hormone plunges. The whole feeling that the universe sucking right now is still pretty high on my outlook.
I'm stuck. I'm the record that keeps skipping over the same line, over and over again. What could I possibly learn from this feeling of purgatory?

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Measurements Decreasing as Pregnancy Continues

QUESTION

I am 31 weeks they say right now. Two appointments ago I measured right at 29 cm. and then I went back two weeks later and measured 28. They sent me for ultra sound and it came back good. I went to my two week appointment today and measured at 25. They have me going to other ultrasound.

I'm not dropping and this is my first pregnancy so I don't know what to think. They tell me I am doing ok but this makes my third ultrasound in two months. I ask them how this is and they don't tell me anything. I'm keeping my weight up too so I hope you can help me understand.

ANSWER

My first question would be about your water intake, as insufficient hydration can cause smaller measurements. I'm also wondering about the position of the baby, as some positions make the measurements smaller.

That said, I would trust the ultrasound if they tell you your baby is growing normally and is normally formed.

Good luck!
~Cynthia

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New Job

I finally got a call that I've been waiting for! I received and offer for a full time position! This is one of the most exciting things to happen to me in a long time. I'll have a regular schedule, and a regular pay check to count on. No more depending on other people's generosity to pay my bills!! The best thing by far in the benefits package that seems to be a very good one. I will be insured through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama. There is no waiting period for benefits so I don't think I'll have a problem if I end up getting pregnant in the near future, plus the coverage seems to be really good for maternity and early childhood related things. I'm not going to jump for joy yet. I know I need to call the insurance provider once I'm covered and ask them about maternity and prenatal care. I just hope the doctor I go to now is one that I can keep seeing since I like her a lot.

Kohl Montano's blog Printer-friendly versionSend to friendLogin or register to post comments Associated topics: Preparing for Pregnancy Related Content When to Call Your Provider Pregnancy After Miscarriage, Stillbirth or Infant DeathProzac during PregnancyEmotions During PregnancyTwin to Twin Transfusion SyndromePost-Miscarriage ChecklistAre These Symptoms of Listeria?Cytoxin and Pregnancy Join the Community login or
create an account Watch Videos Get Social! Fan/Follow Us! Getting Pregnant The Importance of Genetic Testing

Understanding your genetic inheritance is one of the most important things you can do to take charge of your health and that of your loved o...

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Have you experienced sharp abdominal pains when in the process of sitting down, standing up, bending over, or rolling over in bed? This is c...

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Lamaze emphasizes pain management through relaxation and breathing exercises. The belief is that a woman in labor is able to condition her r...

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Toddlers and small children face a host of possible safety issues every time they enter a bathroom. Thinking about potential pitfalls of the...

Read moreSubscribe to Feed Site Search Your "Tools" Area Baby Name Database BBT Charting Tool Fetal Development Growth Charts Podcasts Pregnancy Calendar Our Glossary of Terms Get Answers! Have a question?Check out our panel of experts to address your questions, challenges, and concerns! From getting pregnant to parenting, we have the answers for you! Become a Member! About UsAdvertise With UsContact UsTerms of UsePrivacy PolicySitemap MORE SHORTCUTS, TOOLS & RESOURCES FOR YOU!Getting PregnantPregnancyLabor & DeliveryBaby and BeyondFetal DevelopmentPregnancy CalendarBasal Body Temperature ToolBabyNamesPodcastsWatch Videos Now!CommunityLive ChatBulletin BoardsArticles A - ZGet AnswersBecome a MemberBecome a VIPProduct ReviewsFan Us on FaceBookFollow Us on TwitterAll contents herein this site including the site name are under copyright protection. © 2001-2011 Pregnancy.org unless specifically noted otherwise. This Internet site provides information of a general nature and is designed for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your own health or the health of your child, you should always consult with a physician or other health care professional. Please review the Terms of Use before using this site. Your use of the site indicates your agreement to be bound by the Terms of Use. This site is designed to be used with Internet Explorer (IE) 6 or higher, FireFox, Safari and Chrome.

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Rudeness and Pregnancy

by Pregnancy.org Staff

You are pregnant and glowing, basking in the idea of being a new parent. Strangers suddenly feel the need to give you advice, tell you all the horror stories they have ever heard about pregnancy and birth, and touch your growing belly. What is it about pregnancy that breaks down social barriers?

Many people feel an instant bond with a pregnant stranger or new mom. This bond causes normal social barriers to break down and disintegrate, creating a feeling that they have license to offer advice, stories and touches when they would normal restrain them.

Sometimes it's easy to shrug off some comments; other times it can undermine a woman's confidence during a vulnerable time. Pregnant and new moms know more than they realize, and should feel confident in their abilities and instincts!

You can probably safely ignore most of the comments you receive, but be aware that you may also gather a good idea or two or a pleasant compliment. Try to keep a open mind. If you learn nothing else from the onslaught of advice and comments, they may help you become more sympathetic to new moms in the future.

Has a comment been so shocking that you don't know how to respond. As tempting as it is to respond to rudeness with rudeness, its better for you to rise above that, it will only make you feel worse afterward. No matter what the comment the best response is a positive one, something like, "Thanks for the tip. I will consider it." You may want to walk away from the situation if the person is just plain rude. Here are some other ideas to help you survive this aspect of pregnancy:

Poker Face
Silence and frosty body language (arms akimbo, not making eye contact, appearing distracted) are powerful tools.Honesty
Be honest. Tell the offender "This is making me uncomfortable," Or "This is upsetting to me." Walk away if need be.Humor
It's important to keep your sense of humor or you would go crazy listening to all these people. Humor also helps knock them off guard and keeps you in control of the conversation. Sometimes a self-deprecating comment can help lighten the mood, and make you appear less defensive.Vagueness
You don't have to tell anyone your complete medical history. It's just none of their business. If someone asks your due date, it's acceptable to say it's getting close and stay it at that.Turn it around
Offer them advice. Saying something like "Sure sounds like you had a rough labor. You may want to check out hypnosis as a means of dealing with those fears" ends the conversation without being rude, or challenging.Keep your personal comfort zone
To help prevent touching try to keep a safe zone around yourself. Don't let strangers in that zone. Generally a foot or so is safe without seeming rude.

And if all else fails, chalk it up to camaraderie. Welcome to the "Pregnancy Club."

Copyright © Pregnancy.org, LLC.

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Solving Common Health Insurance Denials and Rejections

Anyone who has used the healthcare system has probably had to sort through billing issues with their physician, dental office, clinic, or hospital. Due to a combination of aloof patients and disorganized medical offices, key information regarding insurance and coverage can often be lost in the mix, or omitted altogether.

As a savvy consumer of healthcare, be a step ahead of the system when it comes to knowing your coverage and ensuring your clinicians are getting it right.

Here are the most common errors made in the exchange of medical information between the patient, medical office, and insurance company. Minimizing these may require a little extra verification and review of Explanation of Benefit (EOB) forms, but could save hundreds of dollars in overlooked, errantly processed claims.

The wrong insurance is billed. As obvious as it seems that this step is at least done correctly, it is probably the most common billing issue that affects patients. By design, it is simple. You give a coverage card to the billing office, they copy it and input that info into their system, and when the time is right they bill the insurance.

But what happens when you switch jobs mid-year, and your doctor, your kids' pediatrician, your family dentist, your pharmacy, and your eye doctor all have the old insurance on file? Even when you give the information to them, they might not get it right on the first try. When you switch your health insurance, be vigilant about ensuring all of your providers get the change right. It could take months.

Incorrect insurance is billed for particular procedure. Count yourself lucky if you have one insurance company for every medical service -- medical, dental, eye, preventative, pharmacy, etc. Many employers, in an effort to keep a lid on benefits expenses, shop around and find a la carte pricing on all the different services.

While it saves you and your company money, it adds a layer of complexity. You may have one insurance for medical, a different administrator for preventative care, and a different plan covering your dental, vision, and drug costs. It is easy for a patient to get these confused, much less your medical office.

Make sure that you and everyone in your family understands which insurance is right for which service, and take an extra look at each EOB when you get them. Any rejections for "procedure/service not covered" could be a sign that your medical office billed the wrong insurance on file.

Authorization was not obtained. One HMO-era change that stuck was the idea of prior authorization or precertification prior to obtaining service. The idea was that if you, as a patient, needed to call and authorize a service prior to having it done, the insurance company would have an opportunity to steer you to the most appropriate level of care, or in some cases discourage you from having an unnecessary procedure. Today, it typically applies to major procedures and elective procedures.

There can be big dollars at stake if you don't get a service authorized correctly. Know your plan and what is required to be authorized. When in doubt, call your insurance company and ask. The good news is that the hospital and doctor's office has just as much interest in getting an authorization as you do. They would rather be paid by the insurance than to have to call on you after-the-fact for payment. So work with your hospitals admissions or pre-registration department and provide all the information they need. In this case, you are all on the same team, and they can help ensure the prior authorizations are obtained as needed.

Need some help sorting out your denied claim? Try HealthHarbor's interactive denial analyzer tool.

HealthHarbor is a consumer healthcare website whose mission is to help people become smarter consumers of healthcare and health insurance. They offer advice and articles as well as interactive tools to help you be a more informed healthcare consumer.

Copyright © HealthHarbor. Permission to republish granted to Pregnancy.org, LLC.

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Sandy's Surprise -- Amazing Baby Boy

Read All of Sandy's Surprise -- A Pregnancy Journal

I have some "homework" from my Bradley instructor, namely making sure I get around 80g of protein a day. So far, I'm finding that ridiculously difficult! I eat so many more carbohydrates than proteins, it's crazy. The only day I came close was Sunday with 77g... the rest of the time I'm hanging around in the 60's. Tomorrow I'm going to make some bean casserole, and that ought to bump my protein numbers up!

Oh, and here's a tip if you're looking to eat more protein but don't want to do the whole chicken/meat thing - get Morning Star Spicy Black Bean Burgers! They are sooo good! You can find them in the breakfast food section of your grocer. They are all veggie, but are chock-full of protein! One patty has 12g of protein. I ate two on Sunday (with no bread) which is why I was so close to getting my recommended amount of protein.

Tomorrow (well, today I guess!) I have my follow-up ultrasound to visualize the baby's eyes, lips and heart. It should be a quickie ultrasound and I'm going to ask for the guy to make sure there really is a penis there! I'm also going to see if he'll give me better pictures and actually let me watch the darn screen! I'm going on base this time, and the tech is supposed to be good so I hope my experience is at least marginally pleasant this time.

Later today....

Okay, so the baby is DEFINITELY a boy! Phew! Tim and I were both relieved. This time there was no doubt. Our u/s tech was so nice! He explained every single thing he was looking at, made sure I could see the screen at all times (when he had me roll over onto my side so I couldn't see the big screen, he turned his screen sideways so that I could see it too).

Tim and I both told him how much we appreciated his bedside manner and how nice he was. We told him about our horrible experience at the other hospital, and he said he had heard many bad things about that hospital and the u/s techs there being mean to patients.

Baby Boy was *adorable* as usual! But of course I may be biased! We were able to see his lips, and he definitely has my lips! They were full like mine, whereas Tim has thin lips. He also seems to have my nose in his profile shot. It was just so neat to see! At one point he opened and closed his mouth like he was blowing bubbles. And he also swallowed amniotic fluid.

I am just amazed by this little boy already! He is this whole little person with his own idiosyncrasies. He did some funny things (legs by his head, thumbs up, punching at the transducer) and we were all laughing. He has such a cute little personality already! This time we got a disc with all the best pictures, including some more money shots.

I'm so excited for my little boy to be here (but not too soon!)! He is just perfect.

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Sandys Surprise's blog Printer-friendly versionSend to friendLogin or register to post comments Associated topics: Pregnancynutrition during pregnancypregnancy journalultrasoundvegetarian protein sources Related Content When to Call Your Provider Pregnancy After Miscarriage, Stillbirth or Infant DeathProzac during PregnancyEmotions During PregnancyTwin to Twin Transfusion SyndromePost-Miscarriage ChecklistAre These Symptoms of Listeria?Cytoxin and Pregnancy Join the Community login or
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Read moreSubscribe to Feed Site Search Your "Tools" Area Baby Name Database BBT Charting Tool Fetal Development Growth Charts Podcasts Pregnancy Calendar Our Glossary of Terms Get Answers! Have a question?Check out our panel of experts to address your questions, challenges, and concerns! From getting pregnant to parenting, we have the answers for you! Become a Member! About UsAdvertise With UsContact UsTerms of UsePrivacy PolicySitemap MORE SHORTCUTS, TOOLS & RESOURCES FOR YOU!Getting PregnantPregnancyLabor & DeliveryBaby and BeyondFetal DevelopmentPregnancy CalendarBasal Body Temperature ToolBabyNamesPodcastsWatch Videos Now!CommunityLive ChatBulletin BoardsArticles A - ZGet AnswersBecome a MemberBecome a VIPProduct ReviewsFan Us on FaceBookFollow Us on TwitterAll contents herein this site including the site name are under copyright protection. © 2001-2011 Pregnancy.org unless specifically noted otherwise. This Internet site provides information of a general nature and is designed for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your own health or the health of your child, you should always consult with a physician or other health care professional. Please review the Terms of Use before using this site. Your use of the site indicates your agreement to be bound by the Terms of Use. This site is designed to be used with Internet Explorer (IE) 6 or higher, FireFox, Safari and Chrome.

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Am I over thinking things...?

My husband and I have been trying to conceive for six months now. And in the mean time of trying to conceive, I came down with severe pains in my lower abdomen area. I went to the Doctor to have it checked out, and the doctor ordered having an ultra sound done, just to be on the safe side. But I was not expecting the results that I got. My doctor was hoping that it was going to be ovulation that I would be feeling since I went off the pill, and that is when the pain started, but it was found out that I have fibroid tumors, on the outside of my uterus. I was utterly devastated. I was referred to a specialist, who looked at my results, and suggested that we try for six months, and then if nothing takes go and have surgery to remove the tumors. Talk about a lot to take in. I'm 33 years old, soon to be 34. I know I don't have much time left to try and conceive. I feel like I am in a constant worry about this, but am I just over thinking this? Getting pregnant, and have a child of my own has been something I have always wanted, and hope to achieve at some point. But I'm afraid to go through surgery, without further testing, not only for myself, but for my husband. He does have children from previous relationships, but again he is also getting older. I just feel at a loss, and unsure what direction I should take at this time.

jbirdgrmps's blog Printer-friendly versionSend to friendLogin or register to post comments Associated topics: Trying to Conceive Related Content When to Call Your Provider Pregnancy After Miscarriage, Stillbirth or Infant DeathProzac during PregnancyEmotions During PregnancyTwin to Twin Transfusion SyndromePost-Miscarriage ChecklistAre These Symptoms of Listeria?Cytoxin and Pregnancy Join the Community login or
create an account Watch Videos Get Social! Fan/Follow Us! Getting Pregnant The Importance of Genetic Testing

Understanding your genetic inheritance is one of the most important things you can do to take charge of your health and that of your loved o...

Read moreSubscribe to Feed Pregnancy Round Ligament Pain

Have you experienced sharp abdominal pains when in the process of sitting down, standing up, bending over, or rolling over in bed? This is c...

Read moreSubscribe to Feed Labor and Delivery Lamaze Method of Childbirth

Lamaze emphasizes pain management through relaxation and breathing exercises. The belief is that a woman in labor is able to condition her r...

Read moreSubscribe to Feed Baby and Beyond Creating Safe Bathrooms for Children

Toddlers and small children face a host of possible safety issues every time they enter a bathroom. Thinking about potential pitfalls of the...

Read moreSubscribe to Feed Site Search Your "Tools" Area Baby Name Database BBT Charting Tool Fetal Development Growth Charts Podcasts Pregnancy Calendar Our Glossary of Terms Get Answers! Have a question?Check out our panel of experts to address your questions, challenges, and concerns! From getting pregnant to parenting, we have the answers for you! Become a Member! About UsAdvertise With UsContact UsTerms of UsePrivacy PolicySitemap MORE SHORTCUTS, TOOLS & RESOURCES FOR YOU!Getting PregnantPregnancyLabor & DeliveryBaby and BeyondFetal DevelopmentPregnancy CalendarBasal Body Temperature ToolBabyNamesPodcastsWatch Videos Now!CommunityLive ChatBulletin BoardsArticles A - ZGet AnswersBecome a MemberBecome a VIPProduct ReviewsFan Us on FaceBookFollow Us on TwitterAll contents herein this site including the site name are under copyright protection. © 2001-2011 Pregnancy.org unless specifically noted otherwise. This Internet site provides information of a general nature and is designed for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your own health or the health of your child, you should always consult with a physician or other health care professional. Please review the Terms of Use before using this site. Your use of the site indicates your agreement to be bound by the Terms of Use. This site is designed to be used with Internet Explorer (IE) 6 or higher, FireFox, Safari and Chrome.

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When Should I Have My First Prenatal Appointment?

QUESTION

I found out that I was pregnant. My doctor set me up with a OB/GYN. My OBGYN isn't going to see me right away. He wants me to be at least 12 weeks along before he sees me.

I'm afraid that is a little to long to wait. This is my first pregnancy and I don't know what I am doing. When is the best time to first see a OB/GYN and get my first ultrasound?

~Brinna~

ANSWER

In my opinion, you should be seen as soon as you want to.

In the unlikely event that you miscarry, it is definitely best if you have established a relationship with your provider in advance, and that your own provider cares for you, rather than just someone in the E.R.

I realize that many women just let their regular doctor choose their care provider for pregnancy, but I would strongly suggest that you get on the internet, figure out what your options are, do some interviewing, and CHOOSE your provider yourself. Who you choose (and WHERE you choose to deliver, incidently) is a VERY important decision, one that you need to make yourself after doing some research, in my humble opinion.

Good luck!
~Cynthia

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Trying to Get Pregnant at 40

QUESTION

Dear Midwife,
I've been trying to get pregnant for around seven months now and I'm still not pregnant. We have had unprotected sex every other day. My period was 3 weeks late last month. When it started, it lasted only three days.

I've taken a pregnancy test and it said I'm not pregnant, but I've had breast tenderness and really bad sickness most of the time, especially first thing in the morning. Is there a chance I could be pregnant as I've still got some breast tenderness and I'm feeling sick. Over the past six months I've been stressed but I'm not feeling stressed now. Things have calmed down.

I'm 40 and my partner is 24. Will that make a difference with our chances? We did conceived once last year but lost it due to our families stressing me. Please could you help and give me advice. We both want this so much. Thanks.

ANSWER

You don't mention whether you have had other successful pregnancies, but I am assuming from what you write that you have not. To be honest, the chance of miscarriage or a "chemical" pregnancy at age 40 is very high.

If you have been trying for over six months, we recommend that you consult a fertility specialist if you really want to conceive. They will run tests to see if your hormones can still support a pregnancy, as you may need some help in that department.

It doesn't sound like you are thinking of adoption, but if you can afford it, and your health is good, then "adopting an egg" may be your best option, as the egg will come from a woman in her 20's, which means there is a better chance it would work. That way, the baby could have your partner's sperm, but you could have the experience of pregnancy and breastfeeding, and you both could parent. Just something to consider, but again, you would need to make that decision quickly, as the chance of in vitro working decreases with age also.

Good luck!
~Cynthia

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We keep trying, but starting to get worried.....

Well my husband and I have been on the journey of trying to conceive for the past 7 months now, with no luck yet. I'm starting to get a little worried. I am 33 turning 34 in a couple of months, and never have had any children. My husband has two children from previous relationships. I have begun to think that my conceiving is going to be harder on me than I thought. Just know that my husband was able to conceive and at not problem or issues with the other women, it has put terrible thoughts in my head. We have talked at length of having a child of our own, and are excited about it. My husband is the sweetest as well, saying it is every woman’s right to have a child of her own. I am worried that past genetic history is going to slow down or even prevent the issue for me being able to conceive. The past genetic history is due to that my mother had me at the age of 27 and wasn't able to conceive until then, and she was married to my father at age 19. My mother never used any form of birth control either, and so to say I am an only child as well. Well I am well past the age of when my mother was pregnant with me, and yet nothing. I have begun to think that it might be a long and hard struggle for me on this venture. I have come into my husbands family late, and him and his siblings all have children, and I am the one being looked at as the next to get pregnant and somehow that has put a small pressure on me. Also I just recently found out that I have fibroid tumors on the outside of my uterus. This new has shocked and dismayed be severely. It made my outlook on getting pregnant so bleak, that I don't know if I can see a light. I've been told that I can do surgery, but it takes away from doing natural child birth, something I was hoping to experience.
Is it just me, or am I looking into all of this more than I should? I am glad I found this website, because I feel it will be a good outlet for me. I am hoping to try until July and if nothing by then I will possibly look into surgery, but I know that will just lessen my time to conceive.

jbirdgrmps's blog Printer-friendly versionSend to friendLogin or register to post comments Associated topics: Trying to Conceive Related Content When to Call Your Provider Pregnancy After Miscarriage, Stillbirth or Infant DeathProzac during PregnancyEmotions During PregnancyTwin to Twin Transfusion SyndromePost-Miscarriage ChecklistAre These Symptoms of Listeria?Cytoxin and Pregnancy Join the Community login or
create an account Watch Videos Get Social! Fan/Follow Us! Getting Pregnant The Importance of Genetic Testing

Understanding your genetic inheritance is one of the most important things you can do to take charge of your health and that of your loved o...

Read moreSubscribe to Feed Pregnancy Round Ligament Pain

Have you experienced sharp abdominal pains when in the process of sitting down, standing up, bending over, or rolling over in bed? This is c...

Read moreSubscribe to Feed Labor and Delivery Lamaze Method of Childbirth

Lamaze emphasizes pain management through relaxation and breathing exercises. The belief is that a woman in labor is able to condition her r...

Read moreSubscribe to Feed Baby and Beyond Creating Safe Bathrooms for Children

Toddlers and small children face a host of possible safety issues every time they enter a bathroom. Thinking about potential pitfalls of the...

Read moreSubscribe to Feed Site Search Your "Tools" Area Baby Name Database BBT Charting Tool Fetal Development Growth Charts Podcasts Pregnancy Calendar Our Glossary of Terms Get Answers! Have a question?Check out our panel of experts to address your questions, challenges, and concerns! From getting pregnant to parenting, we have the answers for you! Become a Member! About UsAdvertise With UsContact UsTerms of UsePrivacy PolicySitemap MORE SHORTCUTS, TOOLS & RESOURCES FOR YOU!Getting PregnantPregnancyLabor & DeliveryBaby and BeyondFetal DevelopmentPregnancy CalendarBasal Body Temperature ToolBabyNamesPodcastsWatch Videos Now!CommunityLive ChatBulletin BoardsArticles A - ZGet AnswersBecome a MemberBecome a VIPProduct ReviewsFan Us on FaceBookFollow Us on TwitterAll contents herein this site including the site name are under copyright protection. © 2001-2011 Pregnancy.org unless specifically noted otherwise. This Internet site provides information of a general nature and is designed for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your own health or the health of your child, you should always consult with a physician or other health care professional. Please review the Terms of Use before using this site. Your use of the site indicates your agreement to be bound by the Terms of Use. This site is designed to be used with Internet Explorer (IE) 6 or higher, FireFox, Safari and Chrome.

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Maintaining Weight During Pregnancy

QUESTION

Hi,
I'm 26 years old and almost six weeks pregnant with my first baby. I have always been very overweight, and have tried everything to lose the extra pounds. I have been very dedicated, especially when I knew I wanted to conceive, to losing weight but no matter how hard I try, absolutely nothing works.

I have even seen dietians and they just tell me to keep doing exactly what I already have been (eating healthy, avoiding sugar and fat, eating protein and fiber, light exercise) and nothing changes. Believe me, I don't cheat on my diets but I still never lose any weight.

Anyway, I know I can't really diet while pregnant and I am pretty resigned to not losing weight anyway, but I wanted to know, based on my age and current weight (240 pounds), how many calories should I be eating per day to make sure I don't gain any more weight (besides baby) during pregnancy? I just want a vague idea so I don't overeat or undereat. I am eating healthy now, fruits, vegetables, low sugar, high fiber type meals. I'm just not sure how much for pregnancy.

ANSWER

While you are pregnant, let's not focus on losing weight; let's focus on keeping your weight gain to the minimum healthy amount. A good goal is to gain 15 to 25 pounds maximum while pregnant if you are concerned about your body weight now. Also, not gaining too much is more healthful for you and your baby and essential for helping prevent gestational diabetes.

Aim to exercise daily, do exercises that are not straining on your stomach, such as walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, light dancing. To keep your muscle mass up, your metabolism up and to prepare you well for holding your baby, do some light weight lifting while seated. Use light free weights, 3 to 5 pounds each, lift 12 to 15 times for 3 sets, doing shoulders, biceps and triceps.

Eat small meals within an hour after waking and every three to four hours throughout the day. Go for high fiber and low fat protein foods at most eating times. Eat veggies and fruit twice per day. Stay clear from the fried foods and foods that leave shine on your fingers. Go for bean based soups and salads and grilled fish/chicken with high fiber starches/starchy vegetables (e.g., whole wheat pasta, yam, butternut squash, quinoa, green peas, brown rice) with lots of veggies.

Cheering you on!
Deborah Klein, MS, RD

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Eating Baby Rice Cereal While Pregnant

QUESTION

I was wondering, I am about 5 weeks pregnant and I'm not eating and tolerating things so great.

Is it okay and nutritionally worth it to eat the baby rice cereal wih DHA and probiotic? Is it nutritional enough as a meal? This is almost the only thing I dont feel sick after eating.

ANSWER

The mommy eating baby food while pregnant is not recommended for overall balanced nutrition, especially in regards to your protein needs. Let's find some other foods that your body can tolerate.

Great easy to digest foods are scrambled eggs (to get the highest biological value protein) with some dry toast (or maybe with a little 100% fruit spread on top). Have a smoothie made with some organic frozen fruit of choice, a banana, some nonfat or 2% Greek Yogurt and some organic 1% milk. Blend it the night before and keep it in your refrigerator and press whip the next morning. Have some Barbara's saltine crackers next to your bed to eat before you get out of bed, helps prevent nausea.

If you aren't hungry for a meal, it's okay, just have some nutrient-dense snacks every three hours you are awake (with some carbohydratess and protein), e.g., fruit and a string cheese, a smoothie or some organic kefir (delicious yogurt drink-great immune boost, too).

Health and happiness to you,

Deborah Klein, MS, RD

View the original article here

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Unusual Uterus Position

QUESTION

I have a backwards uterus. I was wondering if I still can get pregnant.

ANSWER

Absolutely! In fact, if the uterus points towards the back, the cervix points towards the front, which some say makes it *easier* to get pregnant.

Good luck!
~Cynthia

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Which Teas Are Safe During Pregnancy

QUESTION

I would just like to know which teas in general are safe to consume during pregnancy (I am 22 weeks right now). I did a little research on this matter but am still not sure which teas I can drink. I have been drinking rooibos (redbush) tea lately (about a cup a day) with the impression that this is okay.

Is it in fact safe? I would really like to know as I live in a cold climate during winter and a warm drink is so very relaxing.

Thanks!

ANSWER

Yes, you can still enjoy a hot cup of tea while pregnant. It's safest to choose teas that do not have caffeine. Watch out for decaffinated tea (it still has caffeine in it). So the safest tea that ObGyn's recommend is rose hips (great for vitamin C too) or mint tea.

Aim to stay clear from teas with the following ingredients: Anise, catnip, chamomile, comfrey, ephedra (called ma huang in traditional Chinese medicine), European mistletoe, hibiscus, horehound, Labrador, lemongrass, licorice root, mugwort, pennyroyal, raspberry leaf, rosemary, sage, sassafras, stinging nettle leaf, vetiver, and yarrow.

Many of these herbs used for teas, when taken in large or medicinal amounts, can potentially stimulate the uterus and induce miscarriage.

Health and happiness to you,
Deborah Klein, MS, RD

View the original article here

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Do I Require More Calcium When Pregnant with Twins?

QUESTION

Dear Nutritionist,
Hi I was just wondering if I should be taking more calcium than I am while pregnant with twins?

I take 120mg in my blackmores pregnancy tablets and,
600mg worth of caltrate.

I don't really have much milk, but I do eat a fair amount of cheese.

What level do I need to reach when pregnant with twins and should I take more calcium supplements to get there as I do not really like dairy products or is there something else I can eat?

ANSWER

Your first step should be to see your doctor about ANY type of supplement you are taking and/or may take, even for something such as calcium. A healthy pregnant woman that is pregnant with twins should follow the general pregnancy nutrition guidelines. The guidelines recommend 1,000 mg for women 19 years and older and 1,300 mg for women under 18 years of age.

Your best bet is to try to get all you can from foods and only supplement with calcium supplements. So that means including more milk, cheese, yogurt, dark green leafy vegetables, etc... Calcium can interfere with iron absorption so it is best to take your calcium supplement at a different time then your prenatal supplement.

Again, you should speak with your doctor to ensure you are taking the amount of calcium they recommend and the calcium supplement that will be best for you.

-- Kim Tessmer, RD LD

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Preventing Allergies in Children

QUESTION:

Dear Livitician,
I read in American Baby that eating almonds was a way to prevent allergies in children. Is this true? Do they mean food allergies or any kind of allergy (I'm allergic to cats and dust)?

ANSWER:

Eating almonds is very beneficial during pregnancy to provide your body and baby with calcium, protein (make it a complete protein by adding beans to a salad with the almonds or having low fat dairy), dietary fiber and monounsaturated fat (healthy fat that helps the baby’s brain development).

However, eating almonds to help prevent allergies in your children is not scientifically conclusive. Breastfeeding your child is the best way to help your child develop a strong immune system which helps prevent allergies later on in life. Actually, eating nuts too often is not recommended to help prevent allergies in your child. Another great way to prevent allergies in your child is to eat a variety of foods, when we eat the same foods every day; that is what can increase allergies in your child.

--Deborah A. Klein, MS, RD

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Information Overload

QUESTION

Dear Midwife,
Hi! I have looked through the multitude of questions, but have found none quite like my own. I have recently found out that I am 9 weeks pregnant. I asked my doctor about diet and exercise (I am in good shape and exercise a lot) to which his response was to change nothing.

I am not the healthiest eater but I'm thin. I go to websites and friends and all I hear are "the first trimester is the most critical, make sure you're..." from eating more frequent healthy snacks, to slowing my exercise, to no heavy lifting. I just don't know where to begin.

Why would my doctor say to do nothing and everything else say something else?

Do you have any advice for a first time pregnant, 25 year-old who eats not so well, walks 3-4 miles a night, and plays softball? Where do I begin? I feel like I should be changing some things, but not completely shifting my entire life.

Can you help? I just need a direction, a start.

Thank you

ANSWER

I would basically agree with your doctor, with the addition that you go on-line and read up about what is in a good pregnancy diet. Then start eating that way every single day. Take your vitamins also.

Just know that everyone will give you tons of advice for the next 20 years or so, but you are the one that knows best what your baby/child needs, so trust yourself. I know that trusting yourself may be a new concept, but there's no time like the present to start learning it if you are going to be a parent.

-- Cynthia, CNM. PhD.

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"Garden Fresh" Baby Shower

by Rochelle Drumm

Spring showers bring mommy-to-be flowers! Shower your special mommy-to-be and guests with a garden themed event full of bright, Spring-time florals and delicious garden-fresh faire. I've created some tips, tabletop ideas and menu suggestions to help make your experience a little easier.

Menu Theme

Garden-fresh faire with greens, organic produce, herbs and citrus zest.

Favors

Create individual place settings using fresh herb plants or packets of seeds. Customize the diapers to match the herb to the meaning for a cute tabletop setting. Or, you can always hand paint the names on small clay pots. Be creative and give your guests something memorable to take home. For instance, for the mom-to-be (or even each of the guests), include a copy of the book "The Meaning of Herbs: Myth, Language & Lore" by Ann Field and Gretchen Scoble.

Menu SuggestionsCrudités with a trio of dips (recipes below)Parmesan cheese bread with fresh rosemary Mixed spring greens with mustard and tarragon vinaigretteLemon and herb roasted chicken and snow peas on skewersRoasted asparagus served with fresh grated parmesan and basil aioliLemon squaresMini-me dark chocolate chip cookiesIced tea with mint and lemon slicesWhite wine (for guests, not mommy-to-be)?Yummy Party Dips and Dipping Devices

On? a ?rectangular ?platter? ?arrange? the? vegetables? alternating ?colors.? You can use the following suggested ingredients. Garnish? the? platter ?with? ?at? leaf ?parsley if desired.? To save? time, ?prepare and? store? each ?vegetable? separately? in ?air-tight? containers? the? day ?before.?? Cover? with ?some? water ?so? the ?vegetables ?do ?not? dry ?out.??? When? ready? to? prepare? your? platter, ?drain ?your ?vegetables? and ?pat? dry.? Arrange? your ?trio ?of? dips? next ?to? the? vegetable? platter? and? enjoy.? Serves? 10 to 12.

Crudités8 ?carrots ?peeled, ?cut ?lengthwise ?and ?then ?in ?half. ?Cut ?into ?spears?.8? stalks ?of ?celery, ?washed,? cut? lengthwise ?and? then? in ?half. ?Cut ?into? spears?.1 ?English? cucumber.?? Wash? and ?cut? in?to ?1/2" to 3/4" ?slices.? ?If? you? want? to? make ?it ?decorative ?before slicing, take ?a ?fork ?and ?slide ?it ?down? the ?skin ?of ?the? cucumber; ?repeat??.2 cups? of? broccoli? ?orets?, ?blanched? in ?hot? water ?for? 2 to 3 ?minutes? until? bright? green, ?remove? and? soak? in ?a?n ice ?bath ?to ?stop? the? cooking.? Pat? dry? on? kitchen ?towel.??2-3? red? bell ?peppers?, ?washed,? seeded? and? sliced? in?to ?1/4" ?slices?1 ?cauli?ower?, ?cleaned? and? cut ?into ??orets. ??Blanch ?2-3 ?minutes? and? soak ?in? an? ice ?bath. ??Pat ?dry ?on? kitchen ?towel.?

?

Dill Dip2/3 cup mayonnaise2/3 cup real sour cream1 tbsp chopped green onion1 tbsp chopped flat leaf parsley1 tsp beaumonde seasoning2 tbsp fresh chopped dillSqueeze of fresh lemon

Mix all ingredients together and refrigerate at least 45 minutes to an hour. Dip is best if you chill it overnight.

Spinach Dip 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained (squeeze liquid out with a kitchen towel. DO NOT COOK SPINACH.1 cup real sour cream1-8oz can of water chestnuts, drained and chopped3 tbsp green onions, chopped fine1 package Knorr vegetable dip mix

Mix all ingredients and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Roasted? Garlic? Hummus?

Preheat? oven ?to ?400 ?degrees?

2-3 ?cloves ?of? garlic ?roasted ?(see? "how-?to" ?below)?2 ?tbsp ?Tahini?1-?15?oz. ?can? ?garbanzo ?beans ?(save? juice)1/3? cup? fresh? lemon? juice??Salt?? and pepper?

Put ingredients? in?to ?a ?food ?processor ?and? slowly? begin ?to? mix.?? If ?the? dip? is? too? thick,? add? some ?of? the ?juice ?from ?the? garbanzos ?until ?you? have? your? desired ?right ?consistency.? Refrigerate? until ?ready ?to? serve?.

Roasted garlic: ??Cut? 1/4" ?to? 1/2;" from? the ?top ?of ?the? garlic. ??Place? the? garlic ?in? the? center of a piece of tin foil?. Drizzle? with? olive? oil? and? twist ?up? tightly. ??Place? on ?cooking ?sheet ?on? in ?a? muffin ?pan. ??Bake? for ?20-30 ?minutes? until ?garlic ?is? soft.? Let ?cool ?before? you? squeeze ?out? the? cloves. ??Save ?the ?remaining? cloves? in? the? refrigerator.?? Use ?to ?make? garlic ?toast ?or ?a ?fresh? marinara? sauce.

Rochelle Drumm is a fashion industry executive with a premiere Women's Apparel Company. Over the past two decades she gained diverse experience in all facets of the wholesale and retail businesses, including finance, design, manufacturing and retail.

Rochelle considers herself blessed to have a great family and the title of "Best Auntie" granted to her by the darling babychix. She focuses her drive and passion towards helping children have a brighter future and menus to make your experience easy.

Copyright © Rochelle Drumm. Permission to republish granted to Pregnancy.org, LLC.

View the original article here

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Pillows to Ease Third Trimester Pains

QUESTION

Hi. I'm 35 weeks into my pregnancy and have been experiencing sharp stabbing pains in my vagina and cramping that comes and goes every five minutes or so. It does not happen all the time; mainly when I get into bed. These pains break me out into a sweat and make me feel sick.

Is this normal?

ANSWER

There are ligaments that attach to the bones in your vagina, and when you are in bed, you may very well be in a position so that you stretch them and cause them to spasm. By this point in the pregnancy, I recommend 4 pillows:

One for your headOne under your tummyOne between your legs (preferably folded in half so that your top leg is parallel to the mattress)One wedged behind your back (so that you can lie on a tilt without having to hold yourself on your side)

Usually getting all wedged in there between the 4 pillows takes the pressure off the ligaments and allows you to relax and get some sleep -- which you need!

Good luck!
~Cynthia

View the original article here

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End the Pre-Pregnancy Weight Plateau

QUESTION

Hello,

I am 26 years old and obese. I have been working hard to get to a healthier weight before my husband and I start trying to conceive. I have lost 15 pounds so far but the holidays have slowed my progress. I haven't gained any back, but I haven't lost any in over a month now. I am sticking with my work out routine and back on track with my eating habits.

I am not diabetic and do not high blood pressure or any other health problems related to my weight. I have several friends who are obese and have had healthy pregnancies without ever trying to lose weight.

How much will my weight effect my pregnancy? I am not so much worried about being more uncomfortable or finding big enough pants as the babies health. I know I am on the right track with my weight loss and my husband I feel that we are ready in every other way. Would it be safe to go ahead and stop using protection as long as I keep exercising and increasing my fitness level? Or is it imperative that I loose as much weight as I can before we start trying?

Thanks,
Michelle

ANSWER

To get leaner and to get that weight loss happening again, it's all about changing it up.

Let's focus on getting your metabolism up! Aim to eat within an hour after waking and every four hours throughout the day. Go for snacks more often rather than meals so that you spread your calories throughout the day. Have balanced snacks such as a high fiber fruit (apple/berries) with a string cheese or 1/8 cup of nuts. Or a cup of organic kefir drink. To have a lower calorie meal, go for a large salad with a lentil/black bean/split pea soup with a whole wheat dinner roll. Go for grilled salmon/chicken on a large salad with some mandarin oranges on top.

MOVE more than you are now focusing on working up a glow (good perspiration) an hour a day and increasing your muscle mass. Do an hour of cardio a day and do some weight lifting 3 to 4 times per week for about 15 minutes minimum, 3 body parts (10 to 12 reps for 3 sets). Lift a weight that is heavy enough that you feel it after 12 reps, if you can lift 20 times, it's not heavy enough.

Cheering you on to LEANNESS AND OPTIMAL HEALTH!
Deborah Klein, MS, RD

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Is Venison Safe During Pregnancy?

QUESTION

Dear Nutritionist,
Is it safe to eat venison during pregnancy?

ANSWER

Provided that venison is handled and cooked properly it should be safe for women to eat during pregnancy. Proper handling means that it is refrigerated and thawed properly, that cross-contamination is avoided, that it is cooked properly and thoroughly and that proper hand washing is used. You must cook the meat very thoroughly to a safe temperature (which would be 165' F for meat from wild game animals), using a meat thermometer. Undercooked venison can cause toxoplasmosis, which can very dangerous to both the mother and baby.

Caution is urged if the venison is used for jerky or sausage, as some additional precautions are necessary to prepare venison safely in this manner.

-- Kimberly, RD LD

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Irregular Spotting

QUESTION

Dear Midwife,
I been married for about two years and my husband and I have been trying to conceive. Nothing has happened.

I was using the Nuva ring for about two months where I skipped my period. So the third time I tried to skip it I started with UTI's and tons of discharge so I stopped using the ring.

My first period was out of whack. I had really weird brown discharge and painful intercourse. The next period was normal but the this month I was three day late. Now I am just wondering. I started having really light spotting about a week ago and it's only when I clean myself after going to the bathroom.

Intercourse is really painful and my back ache seems to get worse. I have done urine pregnacy tests and are negative. Is there any chance I could be pregnant and would not show in a urine pregnancy test?

ANSWER

Good quality urine pregnancy tests are as accurate as blood tests these days, so it is extremely unlikely that you are pregnant.

If you have been trying for two years, it is time to see a provider who can take a good history and maybe run some basic tests to make sure everything is okay. If not, often very simple things can be done that incrase your chances of conceiving a lot, and it would be better to consider these options sooner rather than later.

Good luck!
~Cynthia

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Pause

My boyfriend and I have decided that we're going to use condoms this month because I start my new job next week and I want to make sure my insurance kicks in before I get pregnant. It's going to be weird because we've never used condoms before. He understands where I'm coming from though, and I think it makes sense. I'm not going to go back on the pill for a month just so I can go back off and have my hormones all out of wack all over again. I hope this works. With my luck I'll get pregnant anyway even if we use a condom just to mess with my time line. Oh well, I guess we'll just have to wait and see.

I finally feel semi-normal again after stopping my pills. I was all kinds of weird emotions and eating habits for the last month and a half. It's weird how much something like that can effect you. I started birth control just after I turned 18 and I'm going to turn 25 in a month, so nearly 7 years of controlled hormones in my body. I could never have guessed just how much that could dictate how my body works and feels.

Kohl Montano's blog Printer-friendly versionSend to friendLogin or register to post comments Associated topics: Preparing for PregnancyTrying to Conceive Related Content When to Call Your Provider Pregnancy After Miscarriage, Stillbirth or Infant DeathProzac during PregnancyEmotions During PregnancyTwin to Twin Transfusion SyndromePost-Miscarriage ChecklistAre These Symptoms of Listeria?Cytoxin and Pregnancy Join the Community login or
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Read moreSubscribe to Feed Site Search Your "Tools" Area Baby Name Database BBT Charting Tool Fetal Development Growth Charts Podcasts Pregnancy Calendar Our Glossary of Terms Get Answers! Have a question?Check out our panel of experts to address your questions, challenges, and concerns! From getting pregnant to parenting, we have the answers for you! Become a Member! About UsAdvertise With UsContact UsTerms of UsePrivacy PolicySitemap MORE SHORTCUTS, TOOLS & RESOURCES FOR YOU!Getting PregnantPregnancyLabor & DeliveryBaby and BeyondFetal DevelopmentPregnancy CalendarBasal Body Temperature ToolBabyNamesPodcastsWatch Videos Now!CommunityLive ChatBulletin BoardsArticles A - ZGet AnswersBecome a MemberBecome a VIPProduct ReviewsFan Us on FaceBookFollow Us on TwitterAll contents herein this site including the site name are under copyright protection. © 2001-2011 Pregnancy.org unless specifically noted otherwise. This Internet site provides information of a general nature and is designed for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your own health or the health of your child, you should always consult with a physician or other health care professional. Please review the Terms of Use before using this site. Your use of the site indicates your agreement to be bound by the Terms of Use. This site is designed to be used with Internet Explorer (IE) 6 or higher, FireFox, Safari and Chrome.

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Eating Fish Sticks and Processed Fish During Pregnancy

QUESTION

Is it okay to eat fish from fast food places? Are products like frozen fish sticks from the grocery store safe during pregnancy?

ANSWER

Fish is healthful to eat while pregnant for your baby's brain growth and for your overall health. Go for wild fish most often and of course stay clear from raw fish and fish high in mercury. Mercury consumed during pregnancy has been linked to developmental delays and brain damage! Ick!

Fish high in mercury includes: shark, swordfish, king mackerel, and tilefish. Canned, chunk light tuna generally has a lower amount of mercury than other tuna, but still eat in moderation (six ounces maximum per week).

If you are wanting fish sticks, try Dr. Praeger's -- delicious ones that you can bake in the oven, so lower in fat and it's made from pollock, so not high in Mercury.

Health and happiness to you,
Deborah Klein, MS, RD

View the original article here

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Pregnancy After INH Therapy

QUESTION

Dear Midwife,
My husband and I were looking forward to starting a family when I had a positive TB skin test. We had to postpone our plans once my provider put me on INH therapy (9 months course) for latent TB.

I have three more months left of INH therapy and I started taking prenatal vitamins and folic acid a month and a half ago. How long after INH therapy is finished should we wait until we can try to conceive? When should I stop taking my birth control pills?

Thank you!
Lee

ANSWER

INH is excreted in urine within hours of discontinuation. Once you are off it, I'd suggest finishing your pill pack or to be extra-safe, take one more pill pack.

You should also have your liver function tested one last time to make sure it's normal. Then have fun!

But I have not seen your specific chart, so do confirm what I am saying with your own provider.
~Cynthia

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Problems with Morning Sickness

QUESTION

Dear Fitness Expert,
Hi. I am Minoo from Tehran. I am past 3 months pregnant and I still have problems with morning sickness. I am nauseated by everything I eat and usually throw up. When I asked some experts they said it is normal.

Could you please guide me about what and when to eat, and the kind of vitamins I should use?

ANSWER

Your concerns about nutrition are normal. But there are things you can do to ease the morning sickness and get better nutrition for you. Please remember this -- your baby is getting everything he or she needs from your body. The baby is going to take whatever s/he needs.

Now, you need to make sure you get proper vitamins and minerals for you. Without proper nutrition, you will feel more tired and exhausted and could be more susceptible to colds/flu.

Here are some suggestions:

Take your prenatal vitamins in the evening (on a full stomach) before you go to bed. Most women report that the prenatals make them feel sick and, therefore, stop taking them. No, no, no. Take the vitamins before you go to bed so that you will sleep through the breaking down period of the tablet. This is when women feel as though they are burping up the taste all day and feel ill.Be sure to drink lots of water. I know you don’t feel like drinking water because it makes you feel terrible but we now know that water is the number way to combat morning sickness. Of course, you will have to go to the bathroom more often -- as though you aren't going enough already! -- but it will help suppress fatigue and illness.Carbonated drinks and hard to digest veggies (cauliflower, broccoli, cucumbers, celery) can often cause gases to build in the stomach, creating more unhappiness in your tummy Go for more mild foods but choose carefully. Oatmeal, cereals and bagels are good breakfast meals that can start the day with a solid base to your stomach. They are mild but packed with nutritional goodies. Salads, for example, can cause a lot of discomfort for pregnant women.Snack throughout the day on yogurt, fruits, carrots and crackers/cheese rather than candies or fried foods. Many times pregnant women do not realize how much the baby is taking from their body and feel nauseous as their own body fuel is being depleted. Translation: The gas gauge on your body is suddenly reading "Empty." If you don't fuel quickly you will run out of gas (or get sick).Little meals throughout the day will fight this and help control your weight gain in a healthy manner.

While you will certainly gain nutritionally from eating in this manner, you must take your prenatal vitamins.Let me know how this works for you, Minoo. We can always take a look at the kind of prenatals you are taking. Also, taking the vitamin with a glass of milk or soymilk will help.

-- Alex

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And we wait...

So here goes nothing! I got my ovulation pain Sunday the 17th and I without a doubt ovulated! I was horny as all get out! Kyle couldn't get home fast enough! And of course we went at it like animals but it was also very intimate for us with conceiving a child in mind. So now yesterday I'm a little freaked out cause my nipples started hurting like crazy. And they are still pretty tender today so I don't know what to think. It could be in my head because we want a baby so bad and blah, blah, blah, or it could be a first sign that the eggo is preggo. Who the hell knows except for God. I could test at home as early as the 27th but I'm leaning toward waiting to see if I get my period or not. But at the same time I just gotta know! Oh I also wanted collard greens really bad last night so I made them 2 day ahead of schedule on the menu. But that could just be I wanted collards and that's that.

There is a lot going through my mind about having a baby. How Jer will take it, will we be ok if I stop working, how will starting school effect my health and sanity and family, how will I deal with breastfeeding 24/7, how will I deal with sleep deprivation, will my family be supportive and help us adjust with the new little one, should we wait until the first trimester is over to tell anyone including close friends and parents, will school let me bring my newborn to any of my classes so I can continue to nurse (midwifery school you gotta wonder), how will I feel being pregnant physically and emotionally, will my back problems get worse, and so on??????????????? It's nerve racking a little! But I will keep this posted for my own documentation in the next couple weeks and months.

homesteadingmama's blog Printer-friendly versionSend to friendLogin or register to post comments Associated topics: Getting Pregnant Related Content When to Call Your Provider Pregnancy After Miscarriage, Stillbirth or Infant DeathProzac during PregnancyEmotions During PregnancyTwin to Twin Transfusion SyndromePost-Miscarriage ChecklistAre These Symptoms of Listeria?Cytoxin and Pregnancy Join the Community login or
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Read moreSubscribe to Feed Site Search Your "Tools" Area Baby Name Database BBT Charting Tool Fetal Development Growth Charts Podcasts Pregnancy Calendar Our Glossary of Terms Get Answers! Have a question?Check out our panel of experts to address your questions, challenges, and concerns! From getting pregnant to parenting, we have the answers for you! Become a Member! About UsAdvertise With UsContact UsTerms of UsePrivacy PolicySitemap MORE SHORTCUTS, TOOLS & RESOURCES FOR YOU!Getting PregnantPregnancyLabor & DeliveryBaby and BeyondFetal DevelopmentPregnancy CalendarBasal Body Temperature ToolBabyNamesPodcastsWatch Videos Now!CommunityLive ChatBulletin BoardsArticles A - ZGet AnswersBecome a MemberBecome a VIPProduct ReviewsFan Us on FaceBookFollow Us on TwitterAll contents herein this site including the site name are under copyright protection. © 2001-2011 Pregnancy.org unless specifically noted otherwise. This Internet site provides information of a general nature and is designed for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your own health or the health of your child, you should always consult with a physician or other health care professional. Please review the Terms of Use before using this site. Your use of the site indicates your agreement to be bound by the Terms of Use. This site is designed to be used with Internet Explorer (IE) 6 or higher, FireFox, Safari and Chrome.

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