We're Having a Baby This Month!

Happy August 1st, everyone. I can not believe I can now say, "We're having a baby this month!!!!!" Where has the time gone? I definitely feel like the first two trimesters just flew by and this third has been draaaaagging on. Probably because we've been pretty much prepared for her arrival since 30 weeks. I finished my baby quilt a couple weeks ago and I've been just twiddling my thumbs since. The days seem to drag on and on but that might also be because it pretty much hurts and exhausts me to do anything. Getting out of bed is the worse! Thanks to pregnancy-induced carpal tunnel, my hands and wrists ache. My feet ache. My belly and back ache. Despite all that, I'm still not ready to be done. I mean I am, but I'm not. I'm going to miss being pregnant. I'm going to miss feeling her move inside me. I'm going to miss having her all to myself.

With that said.....

I can't wait to meet her! I can't wait to smell that intoxicating baby smell on her head. I can't wait to look into her eyes and tell her that I'm her mommy. I can't wait to ignore my messy house because I'm too busy snuggling with my baby girl. I can't wait to see Mike melt into an absolute puddle when he meets his daughter for the first time. I can't wait to nurse her and gaze into her eyes--I think knowing that I'm giving her all the nourishment she needs is going to be one of the most empowering things I'll ever feel. I still can't believe that after 4.5 years of waiting, we are going to meet our daughter this month!

During this pregnancy I have been doing a lot to prepare for her arrival. Besides the obvious shopping for clothes, cloth diapers, baby gear, etc. I have been doing some other things to prepare both physically and mentally. I thought I'd share these things for anyone else who may be interested too.

Ina May's Guide to Childbirth
By far my FAVORITE book that I've read on birth. Birth is not to be feared. Birth is natural. Birth is not a medical condition that needs to be treated. (Unless you're high risk and have medical issues that need to be treated, obviously.) Am I nervous for the pain of childbirth? Yes. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't. However, I know my body was designed to do this and I welcome the natural process. Honestly, the pain and recovery from a c-section scares me more. I remember how awful I felt after my laparoscopy last summer and I remember saying to Mike, "I can't even imagine feeling this way and having to care for a newborn." Even if you're the type of person who wants nothing to do with a midwife or wants an epidural as soon as she gets to the hospital, I still highly suggest you read this book. Did you know that the average American spends more time researching cars or a new computer than they spend on researching childbirth? It's crazy! Like infertility and IVF, I couldn't imagine going into this with no knowledge. It just blows my mind how blindly some people can follow their doctors. If I did that I would probably still be in the shitty clinic on post, trying like hell to get pregnant instead of anticipating the birth of my baby girl but I digress.  Some of it is a little hippy-dippy but it has so much great information and some really wonderful birth stories.

 The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding
I loved this book so much I read it twice! This book far exceeded any other book I read about breastfeeding. It was incredibly informative and got me totally pumped to nurse my baby girl!. I wish every woman who says, "I am going to try to breastfeed...." would read this! I have no doubts that I can and will breastfeed my daughter. It may come with some issues but I now know who to see if I need help and Mike knows that his role in supporting me in my endeavors is just as important as my role as a nursing mom. I read other books about breastfeeding too and this was by far my favorite.

Natural Hospital Birth: The Best of Both Worlds
This book was great! While I already knew about things like c-section statistics, interventions, rooming in, etc. It helped me be more prepared to advocate for myself and our wishes in a hospital setting. I'm not too worried about getting pushed around by doctors or nurses, mostly because I've heard nothing but great things about my hospital being very supportive of natural birth moms, but also because I know Mike won't allow it. He is not to to allow others bully him and he will definitely speak up for us when I can't. Also, I'll have my doula there!

Red Raspberry Leaf Tea
I've been trying to drink at least one cup a day since a couple weeks after I hit my second trimester. Contrary to popular belief, this does not induce labor. It is a uterine toner and can help make contractions during labor more efficient and help prevent postpartum hemorrhaging. It also helps with fertility and menstrual cramps. Luckily, I'm a big tea drinker so I don't mind the taste though a lot of people say it's too bland for them. It's very refreshing iced as well!  For more on the benefits of drinking RRL tea check out this article. You can find RRL tea at Super.Supplements or in a Natural Foods section of your grocery store. Am.azon sells it for a good deal too!

Evening Primrose Oil
Again, contrary to popular belief this does not directly induce labor.  Evening Primrose Oil contains an essential fatty acid that is converted into a prostaglandin by our bodies, which is what softens our cervix during pregnancy and labor.  Semen also contains naturally prostaglandins and can help your cervix ripen. However, sex can be quite uncomfortable and difficult at this point in pregnancy so needless to say I figured the EPO wouldn't hurt as well. At my 37 week appointment my midwife gave me the green light to start using EPO to help prepare my cervix for birth. I insert two gel caps into my vagina every night before bed (make sure to use a pad or pantyliner as this can get messy!) Starting next week I will up the dosage to 3. The gel caps are dissolved by morning and hopefully the EPO is doing it's thing overnight! It does not work right away, of course. It takes a few weeks to ripen and soften the cervix. I could have started it at 36 weeks but I didn't have an appointment then and I wanted to talk with my midwife to make sure it was okay to start it. It's always a good idea to talk to your care provider before starting any kind of herbal or medicinal regiment.

Big Bouncy Ball
I wish I would have bought one ages ago! This is the only thing that brings me instant relief for back pain. I bounce on it whenever my back feels tight and try to spend at least an hour a day on it. I sit on while I'm watching the Olympics and pretend I'm a lot more than just a huge pregnant lady bouncing on a ball. Sitting on the ball is *almost* as good as the squatting position but much, much easier. Have you ever tried to squat when you're 40 pounds heavier and your center of gravity is totally off? It's not pretty. This position opens the pelvis and helps baby get in prime position for birth! It also feels really, really good on my back and hips. And your animals look at you like you're crazy:

Bailey wondering what I'm doing.

Zero and the bump out for a walk

Walking
I always said that I wasn't going to be lazy during pregnancy and except for those first few months where I didn't feel like doing ANYTHING--I've been pretty good about staying somewhat active. Plus those first few months were winter in the Pacific NW aka cold and rainy season--so I had an excuse, right? ;) Now that my swelling is gone for the most part, I have been going on walks with Mike when he gets home from work. Thankfully it doesn't take too much pleading on my part to get him to go with me because he knows it's good for me and the baby (and the doggies!) We don't go far, mostly because my back gets really tight and painful, but we try to do at least a mile. Most days we do about 1.25-1.5 miles, which seems amazingly far when you are waddling the entire way. I get a lot of stares from people passing by. Haha.  I normally feel some cervical pressure by the end of the walk so I hope it's doing something to help the progress along.


I know I've already said this but we're having a baby this month! Only 16 days until my due date but I won't be surprised if I go post date. I hope that doesn't happen since we're moving so soon but if it comes to that Mike and I have decided to wait until 40 weeks to talk about eviction. Mike and I both guessed that she'll make her arrival on the 14th so I guess we'll see! Have you put in your guess yet?

Oh and I had to share this funny picture! Mike and I went up to Seattle last weekend to hang out with my brother and sister-in-law one last time before the babies start arriving. My SIL now has over 14 pounds of babies in her! She's due August 19 and so far they've shown no signs of coming any time soon. I know she's as ready to meet her babies as I am!

Mike's magical floating head

I am Pumped to Birth this Baby!

There's an epidemic in America right now. We have an unnecessarily high c-section rate and birth is no longer seen as a natural, physiological process, but rather as a medical ailment and something that needs to be treated or cured.  For anyone who is pregnant or trying to become pregnant, I highly suggest you watch Pregnant in America and The Business of Being Born. They are both extremely eye opening. Ina May's Guide to Childbirth and The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth are really great resources as well.

My goal is a natural, un-medicated water birth. My hospital is the only one in the state that allows water births! I know some of you are probably thinking I'm crazy. "What? Natural?! We'll see...."  "Why not just get an epidural?" "Why put yourself through that?" And my favorite, "It's not like you get a medal for going natural..." You know what? Women may not get a medal for going natural but they sure as hell deserve them! You get medals for running a marathon. Marathons are mentally and physically challenging, just like birth. Why not give credit where credit is due?!

Why I want a natural birth:

• I think that women in America are given far too little credit for their abilities to birth babies. We are made to do this; I am made to do this.
• After everything it's taken me to get to this point (See: New? Start here.) I would really like to experience the natural birth process.
• I want to experience that total rush of oxytocin, the baby high, when I birth my baby. Drugs can interfere with this natural occurence. 
• Every drug given during the birthing process will cross the placenta to the baby. I want to see an awake, alert baby when I meet her for the first time. AND since I'm encapsulating my placenta (maybe I need to do another post on this topic?!) I would rather not have any of that stuff in there.
• A natural birth will lessen the  chance of a cascade of interventions, decreasing my risk of needing a c-section. 

 Of course all this goes out the window if mine or baby's safety is jeopardized. The ultimate goal is obviously to have a healthy baby safely but due to my low risk pregnancy there is absolutely no reason to think that my birth plan can't become a reality. Mike is totally on board with my birth plans and has been so caring and inquisitive. Yesterday, when we were taking a walk with our girls, he asked me what kinds of things I would like him to say to me during labor and which words I would find comforting and motivating. I know he's going to be a great sense of support for me during labor! However, last week we decided to hire a doula to also assist and support us during birth. Why? Well, we're first time parents and have no clue what to expect. I'm more afraid of the unknown than I am of labor pains.  Back in the day, women often labored with the support of other experienced women or  attentive midwives who were able to help them through the pain and all the scary unknowns. This is where a doula comes in. With her help, I am more likely to be successful in my natural birth hopes! She will not take Mike's place in the delivery room. She will, however, be an additional support person for me as well as for Mike.

What is a doula?

The word "doula" comes from the ancient Greek meaning "a woman who serves" and is now used to refer to a trained and experienced professional who provides continuous physical, emotional and informational support to the mother before, during and just after birth; or who provides emotional and practical support during the postpartum period.
Studies have shown that when doulas attend birth, labors are shorter with fewer complications, babies are healthier and they breastfeed more easily.
A Birth Doula

• Recognizes birth as a key experience the mother will remember all her life
• Understands the physiology of birth and the emotional needs of a woman in labor
• Assists the woman in preparing for and carrying out her plans for birth
• Stays with the woman throughout the labor
• Provides emotional support, physical comfort measures and an objective viewpoint, as well as helping the woman get the information she needs to make informed decision
• Facilitates communication between the laboring woman, her partner and her clinical care providers
• Perceives her role as nurturing and protecting the woman's memory of the birth experience
• Allows the woman's partner to participate at his/her comfort level

A birth doula certified by DONA International is designated by the initials CD(DONA).
Research evidence shows that the quality services of a postpartum doula can ease the transition that comes with the addition of a baby to a family, improve parental satisfaction and reduce the risk of mood disorders.

Why use a doula?

Women have complex needs during childbirth and the weeks that follow. In addition to medical care and the love and companionship provided by their partners, women need consistent, continuous reassurance, comfort, encouragement and respect. They need individualized care based on their circumstances and preferences.
DONA International doulas are educated and experienced in childbirth and the postpartum period. We are prepared to provide physical (non-medical), emotional and informational support to women and their partners during labor and birth, as well as to families in the weeks following childbirth. We offer a loving touch, positioning and comfort measures that make childbearing women and families feel nurtured and cared for.

Numerous clinical studies have found that a doula’s presence at birth

• tends to result in shorter labors with fewer complications
• reduces negative feelings about one’s childbirth experience
• reduces the need for pitocin (a labor-inducing drug), forceps or vacuum extraction and cesareans
• reduces the mother’s request for pain medication and/or epidurals

Research shows parents who receive support can:

• Feel more secure and cared for
• Are more successful in adapting to new family dynamics
• Have greater success with breastfeeding
• Have greater self-confidence
• Have less postpartum depression
• Have lower incidence of abuse

                                                                                                                                                                                          

I met with my doula yesterday to go over my hopes for birth and what I expect from her.  I chose her based on a number of factors--she's a friend, she's experienced but not yet certified (so we can actually afford her!) and she has a history of infertility, which makes it much easier to talk to her about our journey so far. We went over my birth plan, discussed my fears and anxieties, she explained her role in the delivery room and shared some stories about the hospital were I'll be delivering. I am so pumped to birth this baby now! I can't wait to meet her, to nurse her and I know my family and friends are very excited to learn her name! I can't believe that I will be full term tomorrow. We are so close to meeting our little miracle! I hope that I get the birth experience I'm dreaming of. If I end up needing help with the pain I hope it will be only after I have tried everything else first.

In other news...Mike's orders came through yesterday so it's finally official--we were moving to Fort Rucker! By 10 October we will be officially be southerners. Okay, not really...I can't imagine ever considering myself a southerner (I'm actually very nervous to live down south!) but we can pretend. :)

36 Weeks

How big is baby?
 

Symptoms: I felt pretty good this week--almost normal! Well, as normal as I can feel with a huge belly. Rolling over and getting out of bed is still the bane of my existence. I was able to rest a lot this week so my swollen feet have all but disappeared--thank goodness! I did have some timeable contractions on Wednesday after I went for a walk with Zero. They went away after I drank water and laid down for awhile but I've still been having quite a bit of cervical pressure--feels like her head is screwing its way down into my pelvis. Not too uncomfortable but definitely not pleasant. All the big stretch marks are starting show on my belly now too.
Total Weight Loss/Gain: +38 (too many 4th of July cupcakes!)
Maternity Clothes: Yup. I have limited bottoms that actually fit now but I am not buying anything more at this point.
Sleep: I sleep the best after Mike leaves for PT and I have the entire bed to myself so I can really stretch out. I'm still getting up at least 4 times a night to pee and getting out of bed is so difficult.
Best Moment This Week: Going on our hospital tour. The water birth rooms are gorgeous! I really hope that one is available when I am admitted. Oh and hiring a doula! We were originally going to forgo having one but after talking to Mike about my anxieties and fears about birth, we felt it would be a good idea to have a professional support person with us. After everything it has taken to get me pregnant, I really, really want to experience the process of natural birth. My hope is that having a doula with us will help me succeed in this.
Gender: GIRL!!!!
Movement: She's getting so strong now! She loves to kick me in my ribs and try to stretch me sideways. Mike loves it when he talks to my belly and gets a nice kick to the face.
Food Cravings: Blueberry pancakes and chips & queso.
Labor Signs: Definite cervical pressure and some timeable contractions. Braxton hicks whenever I have to pee.
Belly Button In or Out? Outie and my belly button piercing hole is starting to get stretch marks. Gross!
What I miss: Sleeping comfortably, though I'm sure I won't have a great night of sleep for a very long time.
What I am looking forward to: Meeting our sweet baby girl! I hope she has lots of hair like she does in all the dreams I have about her!
Next Appointment: 27 July--at 37 weeks and full term!
Milestones: Finally finishing the baby quilt! Her lungs are almost mature! Less than 30 days to go. Insanity.

Baby Quilt is Finished!!!

I was so worried I wouldn't finish in time but I surprised myself and finished with 33 days to spare. :) I'm actually very pleased with how it turn out. Sure, it's not perfect but that's okay since it's meant to be used. Not hung on a wall or packed away in some box. I hand pieced and hand quilted the entire thing. I used my embroidery machine to make the quilt label but I sewed that on by hand (and got a little teary eyed in the process!) It's hard to believe it went from this:

to this:

and ended up as

Now that my project is finally done I am at a loss as to how to keep myself busy. The house is pretty much clean--I don't want to (and would have difficulty at this point!) do any serious deep cleaning since we'll be moving in about two months and will have to deep clean then anyway. The car seat is installed, the hospital bags are packed, with a few revisions to my earlier post. The sheets are on the co-sleeper, her room is ready, the cloth diapers are prepped. WHAT am I going to do with myself these next 4.5 weeks? I know everyone is going to say, "Sleep!" but it's not as if my body can store up hours of sleep.

35 Weeks

Yup, I did the mommy chop. Reminiscent of my hair when Mike and I met. I'm having slight hair regret.

 How big is baby?

Symptoms: I feel like I have to pee all.the.time. now even though barely anything comes out when I go. I've also gone to the bathroom, stood up and felt pee running down my leg. Ah, fun! Still swollen, still extremely tired. I did have a bout of sickness the other night but nothing since--let's hope it stays that way. More stretch marks have appeared on my belly.  
Total Weight Loss/Gain: +38 (too many 4th of July cupcakes!)
Maternity Clothes: Yup. Though I'm still outgrowing some of them.
Sleep: I miss being able to turn over in my sleep without waking up. Sleep is becoming uncomfortable and I'm tossing and turning because laying on my side for too long hurts my hips. Getting out of bed to pee at least 4 times a night is becoming increasingly difficult too.
Best Moment This Week: Packing my hospital bags--it's starting to feel so real!
Gender: GIRL!!!!
Movement: All the time. She gets hiccups at least once a day. Baby's still head down so I'm getting lots of rib kicks.
Food Cravings: Blueberry pancakes and chocolate milkshakes
Labor Signs: Some cervical pressure and a few contractions--nothing timeable or painful though.
Belly Button In or Out? It's a slight outie now.
What I miss: Being able to walk like normal person without swelling like a hippo.
What I am looking forward to: Meeting our sweet baby girl!
Next Appointment: 27 July--at 37 weeks and full term!
Milestones: 35/35--insane!!!!!  I did my GBS swab today. Praying it comes back negative--I don't want to be hooked up to antibiotics when I'm in labor! Oh and we just booked our baby girl's first trip to Disney World! We'll only be a six hour drive after we move and we're going again with my sister's family-four little girls in tow. It's going to be awesome! I mean seriously, does it get any cuter? PLUS add two babies to the mix!

My nieces, Annabelle and Madeline, at Disney World in November 2010

Hospital Bags

I'm almost at the big 35/35 milestone so I figure it's about time I pack our hospital bags! I've been reading other blog posts about what to pack and what to leave at home (don't worry--my bag does not include an air mattress or tarp!) I feel like I've totally over packed but I honestly would rather have something and not need it than not have it and wish I did. I was going to get all cutesy and post pictures of everything I packed but I honestly don't have the energy to unpack everything again just to take pictures. Instead, I have everything listed out by item and the bag it belongs in. I would absolutely love some feedback. Right now I have everything split up between my bag, Mike's bag and baby's bag but I'm wondering if it wouldn't be better to split it up in labor/postpartum instead? Thoughts?


Megan's Bag

• Pajama pants (2)
• Sports bras to wear while I'm laboring in the tub (2)
• Maternity tanks with easy access for nursing (3)
• Over-sized underwear I don't mind throwing out (2) *I plan to use whatever the hospital provides too
• Zip up sweat shirt (1)
• Disposable nursing pads
• Copy of my birth plan
• Fuzzy socks with rubber grippers on the bottom (2)
• Glasses and contacts
• Hair ties and headbands
• Toiletry kit with shampoo, conditioner, body wash, razors, etc. 
• Makeup and blow dryer *In case I feel like getting pretty for pictures
• Comfy outfit to wear home
• Earth Mama Angel Babies Postpartum Bath Herbs 
• Cell phone with labor playlist
• Flip flops

Mike's Bag

• Pajamas
• Two changes of clothes
• Socks
• Hygiene kit
• PSP
• Books
• Cell phone chargers
• Camera, memory card and charger
• Flip flops
• Laptop

Baby's Bag

• Sleeping Gowns
• Baby Book
• Warm, fuzzy blanket
• Thinner blanket for swaddling
• Ring Sling
• Hats & Hair bows
• Homecoming outfit
• Burp cloths

 Comfort Items Bag and Other Randoms

• Pillows
• Robe
• Blanket
• Boppy Nursing Pillow
• Sleeping bag for Mike
• Ziploc bags and cooler for placenta

Items I'm debating if I need to buy or not--insight?

• Birthing ball (I'll know after our L&D tour on Saturday if these are provided)
• Postpartum underwear
• Postpartum pads--I'll be using mama cloth once I'm home but I'm wondering if the ones the hospital provides are 'good enough' to tide me over while I'm there?

34 Weeks and Running the Gauntlet of Family

For the first time in almost two weeks I have the house to myself. As Mike said last week, we've been running the gauntlet of family. My parents were here for a few days before their Alaskan Cruise, Mike's brother and his girlfriend were here for the week everyone was on their AK cruise and this past weekend we had my parents, my sister's family and my brother's family here post-cruise. We had a house full of people for the 4th too--it was exhausting! The last of our family left this morning and I immediately followed it up with a four hour nap! I guess baby H. and I were really needing the rest. Even though my family helped tremendously with the cooking and cleaning while they were here, I was still exhausted most of the time. My feet and ankles swelled to shocking sizes and I felt like a tick ready to pop. I think Mike and I are really ready to just relax, do a few last preparations and spend some quality time together before our baby girl arrives. The car seat has been re-installed (took it out to tote our family around these past few weeks) and we need to pack our hospital bags but I have to say I think we're pretty ready for our little girl to come into the world! The goodbyes weren't so hard this time because I know I will see most everyone in a few months--with a baby in tow!

I was reminded repeatedly why we have chosen to keep her name to ourselves until she's arrived. My mom kept asking if we were going to name her "one of those weird names" and actually guessed the name without realizing it. So, I guess she's going to be named something weird. Not weird to us! Hopefully once everyone sees a beautiful pink baby attached to the name they will keep their opinions to themselves. Has anyone else dealt with family name drama?

I have to say that I am getting pretty darn umcomfortable and retaining water like crazy. I drink at least 100 oz. of water a day and it doesn't seem to be helping. I feel like I'm even starting to get the 'pregnant face' and I can't say I'm crazy about that. 

How big is baby?

Symptoms: I'm officially a waddler! My dear big brother was making fun of me--I almost punched him. I'm guessing this means that baby girl has dropped into my pelvis. Stretch marks have also made an appearance on my belly but aren't super bright red, thanks to Bio Oil. I also have stretch marks in places I didn't know you could get stretch marks. Scary. My feet and ankles are swollen and very painful all the time now. Even my old reliable flip flops from Old Navy are tight--ridiculous.
Total Weight Loss/Gain: +35
Maternity Clothes: Yup. Though even some of them are too small or becoming uncomfortable.
Sleep: I can't complain too much. My body pillows keep me pretty comfortable but getting out of bed is a different story.
Best Moment This Week:
Gender: GIRL!!!!
Movement: All the time. I had a dream that she's going to have really long legs--which probably explains why I'm feeling her trying to stretch me sideways all the time!
Food Cravings: Blueberry pancakes.
Labor Signs: I've been feeling more cervical pressure and lots of braxton hicks. Hopefully it's just false labor though and she stays put for a few more weeks.
Belly Button In or Out? It's a slight outie now.
What I miss: Being able to walk like normal person without swelling like a hippo.
What I am looking forward to: Meeting our baby girl and seeing how Mike is as a father.
Next Appointment: 13 July
Milestones: She's the size of a butternut squash. At less than two months to go, she weighs in at about 4.2 pounds to 5.8 pounds and measures about 17.2 to 18.7 inches.

33 weeks, 6 days. My bump and Puget Sound

Baby H and I enjoying the frigid water of Puget Sound--felt so good on my swollen feet and ankles!

 

Just the three of us. Love this picture!

Summer has finally arrived in the Pacific Northwest! Like my pool? :P

Vegan Red Velvet Cupcakes for 4th of July! Yummy.

Grill Master.

The girls. My sister in law has almost 12 pounds of babies in her now!

Waiting to see Joan Jett and the Blackhearts-- they put on a USO concert on post! It was awesome.

Uncle Mike showing Ben the Kiowas

Cutie Gabrielle in Uncle Mike's Stetson

33 Weeks

This update is coming several days late because I've had a busy week! Last Wednesday my parents arrived from Missouri--they'd driven cross-country to Seattle to go on an Alaskan Cruise. Thursday I spent the day in Seattle with my parents and my sister's family, who was also going on the Alaskan Cruise. My brother, Shawn, and I took them them around Pike Place Market, showed them Seattle's "famous" gum wall and we had dinner at Pike Brewery--I had fish and chips. Yum! Oh, how I longed to enjoy a beer there. Just a few more weeks. :P

My niece, Gabrielle, and I at the Gum Wall

 The cruise ship left on Friday morning and by Friday afternoon Mike and I were on our way up north to my sister-in-law's mom's (got that?) lake house. We love going up there--gorgeous scenery, kayaking, theater room, ping pong, indoor pool, loads of food and good company. Unfortunately it rained the entire weekend so we spent most of our time downstairs in the theater room. When we were getting ready to leave I realized that it would be our last time up there. The closer we get to moving to Alabama the sadder I get at the thought of leaving the beautiful Pacific Northwest...and my brother. Sigh. I hope we made the right decision.

Mike's brother and girlfriend are visiting this week and they leave on Friday. My family gets back from their cruise on Friday and will be down at our house next weekend to visit. It's going to be busy, busy! After that we don't have any more visits or trips planned. We plan to rest and finish last minute things for the baby--oh and take the L&D tour, of course.

Now...bump date time! Isn't Lake Cavanaugh beautiful? I feel like it looks like I'm standing in front of one of those cheesy Wal-Mart photo studio backdrops.

How big is baby?















Symptoms: Stretch marks on my breasts, hips and butt. Calf cramps. Persistently swollen and sore ankles and feet. Fatigue extremely easily--long naps are becoming more frequent.  Heartburn. Hemorrhoids (ugh.) Stretch marks on my belly have started as well. I'm not sure if my hips are spreading or my ass is just getting bigger because I can't fit in a lot of the shorts that I've had no problem getting into this entire pregnancy.
Total Weight Loss/Gain: +35
Maternity Clothes: Yup.
Sleep: I'm still sleeping pretty well, considering my size, but it's getting more and more uncomfortable. I can no longer roll from side to side in my sleep--it wakes me up every time.
Best Moment This Week:
Gender: GIRL!!!!
Movement: I feel her all the time in there and I love feeling her wiggle. Except when she tries to straighten her legs and stretch me sideways! I love feeling her hiccups.
Food Cravings: Salted caramel ice cream from Husky Deli in Seattle. To.die.for.
Labor Signs: None.
Belly Button In or Out? Almost an outie at this point.
What I miss: Beer and having energy. Grocery shopping kicks my ass these days and it bugs me.
What I am looking forward to: Meeting her. I can't wait to smell her and cuddle her.
Next Appointment: 13 July
Milestones: She's the size of a durian fruit (what?!) She weighs about 4.2 to 5.8 pounds and measures about 17.2 to 18.7 inches. And she may grow up to a full inch this week -- amazing. She's keeping her eyes open while awake.
She's also starting to coordinate breathing with sucking and swallowing.
Her bones are hardening. And she going through (more) major brain development -- that's one smart baby!

Timeline of a Breastfed Baby

WHO, as well as many other organizations, recommend breastfeeding for at least two years, with exclusively breastfeeding for the first six months. (For more on delaying solids, click here_)  Now, I realize that this is definitely not "the norm" in America and for some reason we want to push our babies into milestones, whether or not they're ready. Solids, forward facing, weaning, sleeping through the night, etc. etc. etc. These are all milestones that many people seem in a hurry to reach. I've talked a little about car seat safety in past posts but today I'm going to talk about breastfeeding.  I attended a "Milky Meetup" yesterday with a group of local crunch moms. They're a group of babywearing, cloth diapering, exclusively breastfeeding mamas and I love them! They really do help put my mind at ease in regards to birth and breastfeeding. If I learned one thing yesterday, it was to have an "I will" attitude and not an "I'm going to try" attitude.

It seriously amazes how any woman can be pregnant, let alone in her third trimester, and not have any sort of grasp on the basic concepts of breastfeeding, especially if they "plan to try." I get so sad when I read about newborns having to be supplemented with formula because their mom's milk isn't in. (Did you know a day old baby only has a stomach the size of a teaspoon? Filling them up with formula will likely make their tummy sore not to mention you're basically denying them the immunities their mother's early milk will give them!) Not only is this a bad idea for the baby but this interferes with the mom/baby breastfeeding relationship and can actually do more harm than good. This article is so great at breaking down the needs and development of a breastfed baby. It's important to realize how little a baby actually needs in the first few days so you can tell those formula pushing nurses exactly where they can put that can of formula. I've only C&Ped the first month from the article but it goes on much further.

Timeline of a Breastfed Baby

All babies reach milestones on their own developmental timeline. A multitude of factors influence the rate of each baby’s individual growth such as genetics, form of delivery, gestation at delivery, medical issues, effectiveness of the placenta prior to delivery, and so on.

However there is a persistent and understandable demand from first-time mothers for information on what is considered ‘the norm’. This is particularly so with breastfeeding, as understanding breastmilk intake is more complex than looking at the oz mark on a bottle. This is a topic rife with large-scale confusion, especially as breastfeeding mothers are in the minority and can often find themselves, and their health workers, comparing their baby with formula-fed babies.

Breastfed babies are not the same as formula fed babies. One is fed the milk of its own species; the other is fed the milk of an entirely different species, so it is unsurprising that stark differences can be observed.

What follows is a timeline detailing the journey of the average breastfed baby. I hope it will prove to be a useful and reassuring tool for new mothers.

At Birth:

• Given enough uninterrupted time skin-to-skin, your baby may move towards your breast and begin feeding without assistance.
• The first feed helps to stabilise baby’s blood sugars and protect baby’s gut (NCT).
• Most babies will nurse better at this time than they will for the next couple of days. Take advantage of this. “A full-term healthy newborn's instinct to breastfeed peaks about 20 to 30 minutes after birth if he is not drowsy from drugs or anesthesia given to his mother during labour and delivery” (La Leche League). Breastfeeding in the delivery room or the recovery room after a caesarean section lays the hormonal groundwork for your future supply of mature milk.
• If you experience greater than expected blood less while giving birth or have retained placenta inside your uterus after birth, this can lead to milk supply problems.
• Make sure that the midwives are aware that no formula is to be given to your baby unless strictly necessary and not without your consent.
• Your baby will be weighed following his birth.
• At the moment, and for the first few days after birth, your breasts are producing small quantities of colostrum (about 3-4 teaspoons daily). This is a concentrated clear yellow secretion which is high in protein, fat-soluble vitamins and minerals, as well as antibodies that protect your baby from bacterial and viral illnesses.
• Your newborn should not go longer than three hours between feedings. However you may find that he is very sleepy for the first few days and may not be interested in feeding. If this happens, you will need to wake him up. Undressing him and giving skin to skin contact will help wake him up and encourage him to feed.
• As you feed, the hormone oxytocin will help your uterus regain its tone after birth. This process also protects against excessive bleeding as you recover from childbirth. You may feel mild menstrual-like cramps whilst your uterus shrinks.

Day 1:

• Over the next 24 hours, your baby will begin to increase their hunger so they are having eight to twelve feedings per 24 hours. Many babies will feed more frequently than this and it may seem as though your baby is insatiable. This is because his stomach is so small it gets full very quickly and empties very quickly. Feeding frequently is also essential to build up your milk supply, so feed on demand rather than clock watching. To understand why your baby loves to suckle so often, read this beautifully written article by The Leaky Boob.
• Expect at least one or two wet nappies each day for the first few days after birth. It may be difficult to tell if a nappy is wet at this early stage, and it is normal to find pink crystal-like stains. If you are finding it difficult to judge if your baby’s nappy is wet, try putting a cotton ball in the nappy. When your baby urinates, the cotton ball will feel very wet.
• During this period, your baby’s mouth is acutely sensitive to any stimulation. A dummy, bottle, or sucking on your finger stimulates your baby’s mouth differently than your nipple. A newborn can easily become accustomed to this overstimulation of the tongue and hard palate. “Confusion can occur after just one exposure to a bottle or dummy” (Rubin. S). Therefore try to avoid or delay your baby’s contact with non-breast suckling until he is at least 6 weeks old.

Day 2:

• Most babies (whether breastfed or not) will have a small amount of jaundice, which starts after the first 24 hours of birth, reaches a peak around day 3 or 4, and then gradually fades over the next week.
• Frequent breastfeeding or pumping during these crucial days after birth awaken receptors sensitive to the hormone prolactin, a key player in the production of mature breast milk. If you become separated from your baby or your baby is unable to breastfeed, then pump your breasts with an electric breast pump every three hours. Pumping will send your body the message that you intend to breastfeed.
• You may have heard the mantra: "If it hurts, you're doing it wrong". Whilst agonising pain indicates a problem and should receive immediate attention, a moderate level of discomfort is normal during these early days as your breasts adjust to being suckled.

Day 4:

• By now you will have given your baby his first - and easiest - "immunisation" (antibody-rich colostrum) and helped to get his digestive system running smoothly.
• Your baby will be weighed again around this point, probably at home by your midwife. He may lose between 8 and 10 per cent of his original birth weight, as he adjusts to the sudden loss of his beloved placenta. Breastfed babies, who have consumed only teaspoons of colostrum, generally lose more than bottlefed babies (Murkoff. H). This weight loss is quite normal and expected, and you should see your baby start to gain weight soon. Remember also that in the first few days your baby may be weighed on several different sets of scales, which can all give subtly different readings.
• Also around this time, your milk will ‘come in’ and you may find yourself with the infamous ‘melons’ – aka your breasts swelling and becoming engorged and warm. Overabundance at this time is normal as your body learns to predict exactly how much milk your baby needs (note that if you had a c-section or are diabetic, your milk may come in a few days later than this). The engorgement usually settles down within 24-48 hours. As your baby starts to feed regularly your body will adapt to producing the right quantities of milk to nourish him. Engorgement is more uncomfortable for some women than for others and is typically more pronounced with first babies. With subsequent babies, engorgement may occur sooner. You may wish to apply chilled cabbage leaves to ease engorgement, however limit use to 20 minutes, no more than 3 times per day, as cabbage can decrease milk supply.
• It is important once your milk does come in that your breasts are regularly emptied in order to stimulate and ensure a good supply of milk. Also check your breasts for blocked ducts which are more likely to occur around this time. Try to avoid wearing a bra during this short engorgement phase if possible as a bra may compress your breasts and make swelling worse.
• The colour of your early milk will gradually shift from yellow to white. At the moment your creamy transitional milk contains high levels of fat, lactose, vitamins and more calories than the colostrum. The photo bellow shows colostrum on the left expressed on day 4, and on the right is breastmilk expressed on day 8.

• On average, feedings will take about 15-20 minutes on each side, although variations are normal. Your baby may take only one side at a time but it is wise to offer both.
• If you are not happy with how things are going, get help early. It's easier to correct problems early than to be re-building a milk supply next week. I recommend speaking over the phone with a La Leche League leader or attending a La Leche League meeting.
• As a result of your milk coming in your baby will start passing soft mustard-yellow stools (or orange and even green can be normal). At this stage at least one nappy per day should be full of poop and a mess to clean up. This ‘explosive poo’ phase will continue for a few more weeks.
• Whereas in the past few days it may have been difficult to tell that your baby’s nappy is wet, now his nappies should be undeniably wet, however the urine should have no strong colour or smell.
• You may now be feeding around a dozen times over 24 hours. Soon, you will build up to around 20 minutes per feed every two to four hours. Fear not. This frequency is only temporary, and as your milk supply increases and your baby gets bigger, the breaks between feedings will get longer.

Day 5:

• Feeling tired? Night time waking is the result of healthy biology. During these early weeks breastfed babies are hungrier at night than during the day. Your newborn’s hunger naturally corresponds to the rise of your breastfeeding hormones after midnight. These late-night feedings serve to help you to build a strong milk supply. Over time, the situation will evolve, and your baby will sleep more at night and be awake for more hours during the day.
• Some nipple soreness can be present at this time but should resolve itself by day 10. Pain that makes breastfeeding intolerable and /or cracked and bleeding nipples are never normal and needs immediate attention from a health professional familiar with breastfeeding management.
• During these early days you may find relatives and other well-wishers offering to “take the baby off you while you rest/ buy groceries/ get on with the housework”. What would be more helpful however would be to hear: “let me do some housework for you while you get on with nursing and bonding with your baby”. For a not-so-subtle hint, print THIS and put it on your fridge or in another prominent place.

1 Week Old:

• Your baby will tend to gain weight steadily as your mature milk supply is established. Once your baby is regularly gaining weight, it is no longer necessary to wake them to breastfeed. Simply follow your baby’s lead.
• Expect your baby to now gain around 4-7 ounces (112-200 grams) per week for their first month.
• At this point your breasts may feel full but soft. You may frequently leak breast milk and begin wearing breastpads. However note that leaking has no relationship to how much milk you’re making.
• Young babies, both breast and formula fed, are often fussy. This fussiness starts at around 1-3 weeks, peaks at around 6-8 weeks and is gone by 3-4 months. "They want to be 'in arms' or at the breast very frequently and fuss even though you attempt to calm them. They often seem 'unsatisfied' with their feedings and even seem to reject or cry at the breast" (Mother to Mother). It is not unusual for fussiness to happen during the late afternoon and evenings, and is usually NOT due to hunger, wet/dirty nappy, or anything that you can remedy. It is usually NOT related to milk supply, although some mothers worry about this.
• By the end of this week your transitional milk will have turned into mature milk which is thinner and contains more water. It consists of 90 percent water and 10 percent of carbohydrates, proteins and fats necessary for both growth and energy. There is more watery high-protein milk at the start of a feed, gradually gaining higher levels of fat as you go through the feed.

2 Weeks Old:

• Most babies have regained their original birth weight by this age. If this is the case, the frequency of weighing should reduce. Note that there is no compulsory requirement to get your baby weighed. UK Government guidelines state that weighing can occur "if parents wish, or if there is professional concern" (see here).
• If your baby has yet to regain their birth weight, try not to worry, “it can take up to three weeks” (La Leche League). Encourage your newborn to breastfeed frequently during the day as well as during the night. Also wait until your baby has finished feeding from the first breast before offering the second. This way, you can be sure that your baby is getting to the rich, fatty hindmilk.
• You are likely to also notice your baby’s first growth spurt around this time. This means that your baby will actively return to the breast many times for closely linked ‘cluster’ feedings. Typically, this pattern occurs during the late afternoon or evening hours. Growth spurts generally last 2-3 days, but for a few mothers they can last a week or so. This is normal, healthy behaviour and NOT a sign that you have an inadequate milk supply.
• By now at least one nappy per day should be thoroughly soaked.
• Although sucking is a newborn reflex, the mechanics of effective latching on aren't. It usually takes a couple of weeks, and sometimes longer, for mothers and babies to get really good at nursing.

3 weeks old:

• You have reached the stage where your baby will probably have a little neck control and a decent latch which makes this the perfect time to practice the lying down breastfeeding position. Once mastered, this position will greatly aid night time feedings as you can snooze whilst your baby helps himself.

1 month old:

• Your baby’s weight will probably start to slow down a little from his previous rapid gain. Expect your baby to gain an average of 1-2 pounds (1/2 to 1 kilogram) per month now until 6 months.
• Your baby will grow in length by about an inch per month (2.5c.m.) until 6 months.
• Also your breastfed baby may not have many dirty nappies now. Some only pass a stool once or twice a week. Other breastfed babies may pass several per day. It depends very much on the individual. Infrequency is not a sign of constipation. Hard, difficult-to-pass stools are. Constipation is very rare in breastfed babies.
• By exclusively breastfeeding for at least 1 month you have given your baby significant protection against food allergy at 3 years of age, and also against respiratory allergy at 17 years of age (Saarinen. UM and Kajosaari. M).