We had our last visit with the doctor we chose before Ben was born. I chose to not change doctors before this visit because of Ben needing to get one of his 6 month shots again (it spilled last time). Everything that happened at the visit reinforced my decision, so next week we will be interviewing a couple of doctors.
Basic stats. 28" long, 18 lbs. 13 oz, 46.5 cm head circumference
We are struggling with Ben and sleep. He has been refusing to nap at times, fighting going to sleep at night and waking often. I have read 2 different books and tried many things. Hopefully something will help him get the sleep we all need. Naps have at least happened this week and I am getting him to bed a little easier. We shall see.
Showing posts with label docs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label docs. Show all posts
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
6 month check-up
Wow, it's been a hectic couple of weeks. Our Internet has not been working well which has made being online tough as well. Ben is doing great. He continues to have good and bad days when it comes to teething. He's becoming more independent with so much. He now is willing to be left alone to play on the floor regularly and often wakes up in his crib and just hangs out talking to himself and playing with his hands and feet.
Ben is moving a bunch now. He is never in the same place I put him in the crib when I go and check on him. He even woke me up one night with all the moving around and running into the crib walls. He can roll from back to stomach and stomach to back but thankfully hasn't figured out that if he does it over and over again he will travel. He is scooting backwards and rocking on his hands and knees and launching himself forwards. He loves to grab anything and everything, but I think his favorite things to grab are my glasses, my hair and Jeff's beard. He interacts with people and toys regularly and has started to enjoy throwing things to the floor and fussing so someone will pick it up. He also fusses if he can't throw it to the floor. He is absolutely amazing. I am truly loving the interaction and playfulness.
So, today was our 6 month well baby check. Ben is doing great. The doctor is impressed with how strong he is. She asked if he could sit up and was amazed that not only could he sit, but he balanced himself as he began to tip. Ben now weighs 16 lbs. 10.5 oz. and is 26" long (although I think he is longer than that). On the charts, he is 50% for both height and weight and 75% for head circumference (17"). He was really good at the office considering it took us 25 minutes to be taken back to a room and then another 45 minutes before we saw the doctor (and that was only because I complained). He seems to be doing okay tonight. No more fussy than he was this morning due to teething despite the 3 shots he had today. We'll see how he's doing tomorrow and if he is running a fever.
Ben is moving a bunch now. He is never in the same place I put him in the crib when I go and check on him. He even woke me up one night with all the moving around and running into the crib walls. He can roll from back to stomach and stomach to back but thankfully hasn't figured out that if he does it over and over again he will travel. He is scooting backwards and rocking on his hands and knees and launching himself forwards. He loves to grab anything and everything, but I think his favorite things to grab are my glasses, my hair and Jeff's beard. He interacts with people and toys regularly and has started to enjoy throwing things to the floor and fussing so someone will pick it up. He also fusses if he can't throw it to the floor. He is absolutely amazing. I am truly loving the interaction and playfulness.
So, today was our 6 month well baby check. Ben is doing great. The doctor is impressed with how strong he is. She asked if he could sit up and was amazed that not only could he sit, but he balanced himself as he began to tip. Ben now weighs 16 lbs. 10.5 oz. and is 26" long (although I think he is longer than that). On the charts, he is 50% for both height and weight and 75% for head circumference (17"). He was really good at the office considering it took us 25 minutes to be taken back to a room and then another 45 minutes before we saw the doctor (and that was only because I complained). He seems to be doing okay tonight. No more fussy than he was this morning due to teething despite the 3 shots he had today. We'll see how he's doing tomorrow and if he is running a fever.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
4 month check-up
We had our 4 month visit today. Poor boy got more vaccinations. He cried much more this time around during the shots. He has been sleeping since he calmed down (about 10 minutes after the shots).
We pre-dosed Tylenol and will give him more when he wakes if he seems uncomfortable and before bed. We also are gonna do a joint bath (he and I) to get those little legs moving to decrease soreness.
He is doing well. The doc commented on how much he is talking, his happy demeanor and his big feet.
- Weight: 14 lbs. 2 oz
- Height: 25 inches
- Head Cir: 17 inches
Thursday, May 1, 2008
6-week Check-up
Today Ben saw the doctor again for his 2 month vaccinations. He is doing well. He now weighs 10 lbs. and was measured at 22 1/2 inches, however I'm pretty sure he's taller than that (probably closer to 24" by my measuring).
Ben got 3 shots and an oral dose of vaccination. He did very well with the shots and is only a little more fussy than usual. The doctor is impressed with the fact that Ben is gaining so well with simply breastfeeding. She also commented on his skin and asked if we were using lotion, nope, he's just got good skin :).
Hopefully tonight won't be too difficult and he won't be too uncomfortable from his shots.
Oh...and one bit of squee news for me...I fit into my pre-pregnancy jeans today. Only 5 lbs. till I'm back to pre-baby weight. YAY!!!
Ben got 3 shots and an oral dose of vaccination. He did very well with the shots and is only a little more fussy than usual. The doctor is impressed with the fact that Ben is gaining so well with simply breastfeeding. She also commented on his skin and asked if we were using lotion, nope, he's just got good skin :).
Hopefully tonight won't be too difficult and he won't be too uncomfortable from his shots.
Oh...and one bit of squee news for me...I fit into my pre-pregnancy jeans today. Only 5 lbs. till I'm back to pre-baby weight. YAY!!!
Thursday, March 13, 2008
40 week appointment
Went to my appointment. Got my vitals taken, all looks fine. Then got to do fetal monitoring. In the beginning Roo was quite quiet (if fact, he has been most of the day, until now), but the doctor was able to get a couple of nice areas of movement so he was happy and it didn't take too long. No contractions.
I then had my cervix checked and we have progressed maybe a little since the last time it was checked 2 weeks ago. We discussed what will happen as time goes on some more. The doc would be very surprised if Roo decides to show this weekend. So, we have an appointment set for Monday at 3:30 for more monitoring at which time we will also have an ultrasound to check fluid levels.
Sigh. Must learn to be patient and make some plans for this weekend.
I then had my cervix checked and we have progressed maybe a little since the last time it was checked 2 weeks ago. We discussed what will happen as time goes on some more. The doc would be very surprised if Roo decides to show this weekend. So, we have an appointment set for Monday at 3:30 for more monitoring at which time we will also have an ultrasound to check fluid levels.
Sigh. Must learn to be patient and make some plans for this weekend.
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Doc appointment
Had my 39 week appointment this afternoon. It was quite routine. Weighed, blood pressure taken, urine test, belly measured, heart beat listened to via doppler. Everything looks good. The doctor thinks this weekend (maybe even tomorrow) would be a good day for Roo to be born and he hopes to see us before our next appointment which is scheduled for next Thursday. If I'm still pregnant then, we will start looking at monitoring to make sure the baby is still happy and fluid levels haven't dropped too much. Hopefully we won't go too much longer.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
How to calm a Roo
Well, we had an interesting evening last night. Around 5 pm I noticed a distinct increase of leaking fluid, showered and changed thinking it might not be anything, but when 15 minutes later I seemed to still be leaking something I decided it was time to head into the hospital to be safe and make sure my water hadn't broke.
I wake Jeff up around 6 and told him I wanted to head to the hospital to get checked out in case my water has broke and we need to start labor. He gets dressed and off to the hospital we go. Both of us obviously a bit excited and nervous. I'm most nervous about the idea that if my water has broke then we are likely looking at induction and a higher chance of cesarean. Jeff is manages to miss nearly every street we usually take to get to the hospital and we end up on the freeway instead.
We arrive at the hospital, get checked in and are lead to a room within 15 minutes. I tell the nurse what I've done so far and that there is a distinct increase of leaking, however no gushing, so one nurse begins my history (with many wows regarding allergies and the fact my list won't fit in the slots on the computer) while the other gets me hooked up to the monitors and begins preparing for the exam. All this takes about 15 more minutes and 2 things are confirmed. 1) My water has not broke, nothing to worry about there, and 2) We have a very active baby. The nurses go away making comment that the baby needs to calm down a bit before we can be discharged. She then pokes her head in and lets us know there is a shift change and she will be leaving.
We see no one for close to an hour. Roo continues at a normal high level of activity and I now need to go to the bathroom. Both Jeff and I are more than ready to go home and don't quite understand why we are waiting around, Roo is always active and not likely to rest, especially when hooked up to an ultrasound. We call the nurses station, I am unhooked from the monitors so I can use the restroom and by the time I am done our nurse has come in to reattach the monitor and check on things. She states that 10 minutes of quiet rest are needed before she can let us go home and that in the past they have had to keep people overnight because of an overly active or inactive baby. We again discuss that this is completely normal for our little one and she encourages me to relax and do anything I can think of to try and get Roo to fall asleep for a bit. SIGH!!
While lying there, I get onto my side and get as comfortable as possible, not wanting to move and keep Roo awake. We try turning off the lights, but the button doesn't work. The nurse had suggested singing lullabies and seeing as we brought our I Pod, I decided to do the next best thing. My "normal" routine when going to bed and being restless is to turn off lights and turn on a specific CD I find relaxing. So, I decide to drape my belly with my sweatshirt (hoping to make things darker for Roo) and place one of the two earplugs for the I Pod on my belly, the other in my ear. I lie there, listening to my music and the changes in Roo's heartbeat, hoping to have 10 minutes of quiet time so we can go home.
Roo's heartbeat fluctuates quite a bit and movement comes and goes, but never doesn't go for more than 2 or 3 minutes at a time. At about 9 pm, Jeff, at this point restless and VERY hungry (he didn't eat before we came in, as I figured if my water had broke, he could go get food in the cafeteria once I was examined and if it hadn't we could go get food together) and decides to go and get something to eat. I tell him no problem and in walks the nurse saying "So, do you want to go home?" Apparently, after one of the longer quiet periods for Roo she had called the doctor and gotten the okay to send us home. She was able to count up 6 or 7 minutes of sporadic quietness and thus had the needed "baseline" to determine a resting heart rate without any outside influence on the monitor. She again reiterated that this is not a completely uncommon occurrence and trying to get a baby to calm down, as frustrating as it can be, is much better than having an overly quiet baby and not being able to let patients go home for that.
It was close to 9:30 by the time we finally got discharged and out of the hospital and we both needed food. We got to a restaurant 10 minutes before the kitchen closed and were able to get our order in and eat something and finally get home. The funniest part of the story is that during the entire time on the monitors (from about 6:30 to 9) I didn't have one contraction, however, as I am finishing my meal I have one, pretty good strength contraction. Jeff jokes about going back to the hospital and I am not so amused, as it is still hurting.
We get home and are able to relax for a bit before Jeff heads off to work. It's amazing how tiring it can be to lie in a bed and try to calm an overly active baby.
I wake Jeff up around 6 and told him I wanted to head to the hospital to get checked out in case my water has broke and we need to start labor. He gets dressed and off to the hospital we go. Both of us obviously a bit excited and nervous. I'm most nervous about the idea that if my water has broke then we are likely looking at induction and a higher chance of cesarean. Jeff is manages to miss nearly every street we usually take to get to the hospital and we end up on the freeway instead.
We arrive at the hospital, get checked in and are lead to a room within 15 minutes. I tell the nurse what I've done so far and that there is a distinct increase of leaking, however no gushing, so one nurse begins my history (with many wows regarding allergies and the fact my list won't fit in the slots on the computer) while the other gets me hooked up to the monitors and begins preparing for the exam. All this takes about 15 more minutes and 2 things are confirmed. 1) My water has not broke, nothing to worry about there, and 2) We have a very active baby. The nurses go away making comment that the baby needs to calm down a bit before we can be discharged. She then pokes her head in and lets us know there is a shift change and she will be leaving.
We see no one for close to an hour. Roo continues at a normal high level of activity and I now need to go to the bathroom. Both Jeff and I are more than ready to go home and don't quite understand why we are waiting around, Roo is always active and not likely to rest, especially when hooked up to an ultrasound. We call the nurses station, I am unhooked from the monitors so I can use the restroom and by the time I am done our nurse has come in to reattach the monitor and check on things. She states that 10 minutes of quiet rest are needed before she can let us go home and that in the past they have had to keep people overnight because of an overly active or inactive baby. We again discuss that this is completely normal for our little one and she encourages me to relax and do anything I can think of to try and get Roo to fall asleep for a bit. SIGH!!
While lying there, I get onto my side and get as comfortable as possible, not wanting to move and keep Roo awake. We try turning off the lights, but the button doesn't work. The nurse had suggested singing lullabies and seeing as we brought our I Pod, I decided to do the next best thing. My "normal" routine when going to bed and being restless is to turn off lights and turn on a specific CD I find relaxing. So, I decide to drape my belly with my sweatshirt (hoping to make things darker for Roo) and place one of the two earplugs for the I Pod on my belly, the other in my ear. I lie there, listening to my music and the changes in Roo's heartbeat, hoping to have 10 minutes of quiet time so we can go home.
Roo's heartbeat fluctuates quite a bit and movement comes and goes, but never doesn't go for more than 2 or 3 minutes at a time. At about 9 pm, Jeff, at this point restless and VERY hungry (he didn't eat before we came in, as I figured if my water had broke, he could go get food in the cafeteria once I was examined and if it hadn't we could go get food together) and decides to go and get something to eat. I tell him no problem and in walks the nurse saying "So, do you want to go home?" Apparently, after one of the longer quiet periods for Roo she had called the doctor and gotten the okay to send us home. She was able to count up 6 or 7 minutes of sporadic quietness and thus had the needed "baseline" to determine a resting heart rate without any outside influence on the monitor. She again reiterated that this is not a completely uncommon occurrence and trying to get a baby to calm down, as frustrating as it can be, is much better than having an overly quiet baby and not being able to let patients go home for that.
It was close to 9:30 by the time we finally got discharged and out of the hospital and we both needed food. We got to a restaurant 10 minutes before the kitchen closed and were able to get our order in and eat something and finally get home. The funniest part of the story is that during the entire time on the monitors (from about 6:30 to 9) I didn't have one contraction, however, as I am finishing my meal I have one, pretty good strength contraction. Jeff jokes about going back to the hospital and I am not so amused, as it is still hurting.
We get home and are able to relax for a bit before Jeff heads off to work. It's amazing how tiring it can be to lie in a bed and try to calm an overly active baby.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
2 weeks
We have just under 2 weeks until our due date. Things are progressing slowly. I saw my OB's partner today. She is quite nice and has mostly the same philosophy as our Doc, so if Roo decides to come early we should have the delivery we want (baring unforeseen circumstances). But, if Roo decides to wait until Monday, our doctor will be back in the country. The visit was quick and easy as usual. The doctor commented on how there seem to have been no problems or complications with the pregnancy (YAY!). Heart rate sounds good still, Roo is still in head down position, but is still high. There has been progress since my exam 2 weeks ago though, we are at 40% effacement and 1 cm dilation.
In other news, we continue to make progress towards getting things done to be more ready than we are now. I've picked up the last things I need for our labor goody bag. I have our list of phone numbers prepared and our list of addresses and email addresses nearly set for baby announcements. I've filled our freezer as full as it will get with frozen meals and meat for easy meals once Roo arrives. This week I plan on doing some sewing and knitting for Roo. I am making a couple of swaddling blankets based on Swaddle Baby (http://swaddlebaby.com/), a couple of pillows using the valence from the bedding set we purchase, and I have ordered some Alpaca yarn to make soakers and knitted pants. I am to the point where there is nothing else that NEEDS to get done, so hopefully I can relax and allow nature to take it's course. The last thing that is needed will be delivered tomorrow, the diapers and diaper pail from our service :)
In other news, we continue to make progress towards getting things done to be more ready than we are now. I've picked up the last things I need for our labor goody bag. I have our list of phone numbers prepared and our list of addresses and email addresses nearly set for baby announcements. I've filled our freezer as full as it will get with frozen meals and meat for easy meals once Roo arrives. This week I plan on doing some sewing and knitting for Roo. I am making a couple of swaddling blankets based on Swaddle Baby (http://swaddlebaby.com/), a couple of pillows using the valence from the bedding set we purchase, and I have ordered some Alpaca yarn to make soakers and knitted pants. I am to the point where there is nothing else that NEEDS to get done, so hopefully I can relax and allow nature to take it's course. The last thing that is needed will be delivered tomorrow, the diapers and diaper pail from our service :)
Thursday, February 14, 2008
One month left (more or less)
First off, the happy news for those who haven't heard: the Writer's strike is over. It should be a month or 2 before things get back to normal for Jeff at work.
I am now at weekly OB visits. All still looks good. We are still looking at a due date of March 11th, no signs as of yet of being early. The doc went to listen to Roo's heart beat and noted (again) how active he is.
We have just one week left of classes. The prep for childbirth class has given us some good tools to work with and we will get more at the last class. It is a good thing we took the other classes first though, since I'm not sure how gung-ho we would be at going to other classes after this one. Just not as good as the "Monday night" group of classes.
Our nursery looks like just that, with the crib and dresser all set up. We have yet to move a few things around in there and finish decorating. Some of our ideas likely won't get done (like painting the shelf the TV is on) but that is really no big deal. We still have a few items to buy before the baby is here and some I'm waiting on until later. Most of the things I would like to have sooner than later have been ordered and should be arriving in the near future.
In other news, I also had an eye doctor appointment today. Luckily my prescription hasn't really changed, so my contacts (I still have a box left) are the same. Since our insurance either covers some of the contacts OR glasses, I decided with Roo showing up soon, glasses were the best choice. I should have the new glasses in about a week and a half.
Not much else. Plan on trying to get more cooking/food shopping done to prepare more stuff for the freezer, although motivation for that has been low. Go walk the mall a bit, maybe get a hair cut, keep working on the baby book I'm making for Roo. Hope everyone is well, until next week (unless something exciting happens)
I am now at weekly OB visits. All still looks good. We are still looking at a due date of March 11th, no signs as of yet of being early. The doc went to listen to Roo's heart beat and noted (again) how active he is.
We have just one week left of classes. The prep for childbirth class has given us some good tools to work with and we will get more at the last class. It is a good thing we took the other classes first though, since I'm not sure how gung-ho we would be at going to other classes after this one. Just not as good as the "Monday night" group of classes.
Our nursery looks like just that, with the crib and dresser all set up. We have yet to move a few things around in there and finish decorating. Some of our ideas likely won't get done (like painting the shelf the TV is on) but that is really no big deal. We still have a few items to buy before the baby is here and some I'm waiting on until later. Most of the things I would like to have sooner than later have been ordered and should be arriving in the near future.
In other news, I also had an eye doctor appointment today. Luckily my prescription hasn't really changed, so my contacts (I still have a box left) are the same. Since our insurance either covers some of the contacts OR glasses, I decided with Roo showing up soon, glasses were the best choice. I should have the new glasses in about a week and a half.
Not much else. Plan on trying to get more cooking/food shopping done to prepare more stuff for the freezer, although motivation for that has been low. Go walk the mall a bit, maybe get a hair cut, keep working on the baby book I'm making for Roo. Hope everyone is well, until next week (unless something exciting happens)
Thursday, February 7, 2008
35 week progress
This week I feel we have made quite a bit of progress in getting ready for Roo. We now have a crib, dresser, 2 car seats, and a number of other needed items. My hospital bag and diaper bag are packed and sitting next to the door. Our diaper service is arranged and we will get a pre-birth delivery on the 28th. I called the pediatrician most highly recommended by my OB office and she spent 15 minutes talking with me on the phone and answering my questions. My gut is that she will be a good match with our family. She is sending me an email with the office website, so that I can check that out. It is a small practice (2 pediatricians) that is just beginning, however Dr Pan has over 20 years experience. She appears to be a doctor that is willing to listen to the family and work with them.
Jeff's work schedule has changed, so we haven't gotten the crib or dresser set up yet (the crib is started). Things feel like they are falling into place. Today I plan on making a lasagna to freeze and finish organizing the bedroom so that the co-sleeper can be set up in there.
We started our Preparation of Childbirth/Lamaze class this week and have learned a little. I definitely miss our last instructor and her way of presenting information, but, I'm sure this will help us with the actual birth.
Jeff's work schedule has changed, so we haven't gotten the crib or dresser set up yet (the crib is started). Things feel like they are falling into place. Today I plan on making a lasagna to freeze and finish organizing the bedroom so that the co-sleeper can be set up in there.
We started our Preparation of Childbirth/Lamaze class this week and have learned a little. I definitely miss our last instructor and her way of presenting information, but, I'm sure this will help us with the actual birth.
Friday, February 1, 2008
34 week exam
Well, the exam was pretty routine and low key. We had a quick and dirty ultrasound with the doctor's oldest machine just to check the position of Roo and make sure we are all ready and in the head down position, which Roo is. The one thing that was slightly different was I had to spend a bit of extra time resting/lying down in the office because when I came in my blood pressure was borderline high (151/90) and the doctor wanted to make sure I wasn't developing pregnancy induced hypertension. Luckily, after lying down my blood pressure came down just fine (106/60). I discussed a bit with the doctor about signs of needing to head to the hospital and got several other questions answered.
This week has been a week of several small shopping trips. I have picked up some things we were lacking/still needing. I've got the diaper bag mostly packed for the hospital, all that is needed are diapers to be added. Most of Roo's laundry is done, minus a few new items.
Our parenting class went well and we again got lots of very good and helpful information. Sadly, this was our last class with Susan, the teacher who has been teaching this set of classes. We also met some other parents-to-be and traded emails and phone numbers. Overall a great experience. Next week we begin our Preparation for Childbirth class with a different teacher.
This coming week, I need to finish packing my hospital bag, call and interview pediatricians so we can choose one before our next visit on 2/14, call and set up an account with the diaper service, and probably help Jeff set up the dresser, crib, and co-sleeper.
This week has been a week of several small shopping trips. I have picked up some things we were lacking/still needing. I've got the diaper bag mostly packed for the hospital, all that is needed are diapers to be added. Most of Roo's laundry is done, minus a few new items.
Our parenting class went well and we again got lots of very good and helpful information. Sadly, this was our last class with Susan, the teacher who has been teaching this set of classes. We also met some other parents-to-be and traded emails and phone numbers. Overall a great experience. Next week we begin our Preparation for Childbirth class with a different teacher.
This coming week, I need to finish packing my hospital bag, call and interview pediatricians so we can choose one before our next visit on 2/14, call and set up an account with the diaper service, and probably help Jeff set up the dresser, crib, and co-sleeper.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
32 week doctors visit
Quick and easy visit today. Unfortunately, I had missed the call from the office letting me know that the doctor was in surgery. I got to the office and was given the choice of coming back in about and hour or having a nurse do the check-up. Seeing as the visits have been quite short lately and all the doctor would do is measure the belly and listen to the baby's heart, I chose to see the nurse. While there I had the opportunity to ask the nurses for referrals to pediatricians. There are 3 that Dr. Kizner seems to like and one he prefers to deal with. I will be contacting them to determine who we will use for Roo's pediatrician. I also was able to discuss with them about some of their experiences and what they have heard about how Dr. Kizner actually is in the delivery room. It was nice to hear their viewpoints and have my basic feelings validated that in fact he will support the mother's choice as long as there is no danger to mom or baby.
After the visit I headed over to Babies'R'Us to buy a baby shower gift for a friend. I had planned on making a themed basket from the registry items (I had looked online at what hadn't been purchased yet.) I got to the store and printed out the registry and every thing that I went to get was out of one major piece to complete the basket. Bath, diapering, breastfeeding, etc. After close to 2 hours and sitting in the rocker that I like to relax a bit before trying again (I got to the check out and found the item I was buying had been returned and not in good shape) I finally found a couple of things that met my spending goal and headed home.
Now I am tired but making some dinner. Until next time.
After the visit I headed over to Babies'R'Us to buy a baby shower gift for a friend. I had planned on making a themed basket from the registry items (I had looked online at what hadn't been purchased yet.) I got to the store and printed out the registry and every thing that I went to get was out of one major piece to complete the basket. Bath, diapering, breastfeeding, etc. After close to 2 hours and sitting in the rocker that I like to relax a bit before trying again (I got to the check out and found the item I was buying had been returned and not in good shape) I finally found a couple of things that met my spending goal and headed home.
Now I am tired but making some dinner. Until next time.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Hospital Orientation and most recent OB visit
Last night we went to the maternity ward tour held at the hospital where Roo will be born. Despite our mutual jeering and smart ass comments, we are both very happy with the hospital. The birthing suites are quite cozy and comfortable without an overly hospital feel. The lights are able to be dimmed, there is a TV and DVD player as well as a tub and shower. There are 3 chairs in addition to the bed. You are encouraged to get up and move and walk to help labor progress unless complications require you to remain in bed. Up to 3 people may be there to provide support and assistance at all times, including the actual pushing. The hospital promotes skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth for at least an hour. After that time, baby goes to the nursery for a weighing, bath, and warming as mom is moved to the mother/baby room. Once baby is clean and maintaining body heat (takes about an hour), baby returns to mom's side and remains there unless mom needs to go for a procedure or requests baby return to the nursery. When we went on our tour, there were no babies in the nursery. The hospital is also renowned for it's NICU as well. Many babies are transported there from other hospitals. The rooms are semi-private (only 2 private available on first come first serve basis for extra $$) Usually only one mom is actually in each room. If the unit is busy, they try to place a new mom with a mom about to be discharged as to allow for as much privacy as possible. Security is good. All babies have matching arm band numbers as both Mom and Dad. The Women's Center staff all have badges with a specific colored picture background to assist patients in knowing who is on staff in that department. Lastly, each mom and baby receive continuous care from one nurse, so she can get to know you and your needs.
There were also vendors at the orientation, where I learned of a diaper service in the area. Now we need to decide if this is something we are interested in or if I want to go ahead and buy and wash the diapers. http://www.dy-dee.com/
This is the start of our prenatal classes. They continue one a week with Feb. 19th being our last class. We have breastfeeding classes (2 weeks), becoming a parent, baby care basics, and preparation for childbirth (3 weeks).
Today, I had a prenatal visit. Everything continues to go well. I gained 3 lbs. this month, for a grand total of 19 lbs. gained so far. My belly is the size it should be and Roo appears to have turned and no longer is breech. No ultrasound this month, just the Doppler, which Roo didn't really like as he batted at it the whole time. We have reached the point where our visits will now be every 2 weeks, unless there is a problem.
**TMI alert**
As far as how I'm feeling: I am noticing that I am more tired than I had been, but not too bad. The heart burn continues now and then but isn't continuous. My mid back and occasionally lower back hurts by the end of the day and it is difficult to find a comfortable position, even in bed, but I am sleeping pretty well regardless and waking feeling better than I did the previous night. Roo continues to be very active and at times the kicks, punches and stretches can be painful. His position is definitely putting pressure on my bladder as I need to go more often and I can feel pressure in my pelvis. So far, nothing really major to complain about. We remain healthy and happy.
There were also vendors at the orientation, where I learned of a diaper service in the area. Now we need to decide if this is something we are interested in or if I want to go ahead and buy and wash the diapers. http://www.dy-dee.com/
This is the start of our prenatal classes. They continue one a week with Feb. 19th being our last class. We have breastfeeding classes (2 weeks), becoming a parent, baby care basics, and preparation for childbirth (3 weeks).
Today, I had a prenatal visit. Everything continues to go well. I gained 3 lbs. this month, for a grand total of 19 lbs. gained so far. My belly is the size it should be and Roo appears to have turned and no longer is breech. No ultrasound this month, just the Doppler, which Roo didn't really like as he batted at it the whole time. We have reached the point where our visits will now be every 2 weeks, unless there is a problem.
**TMI alert**
As far as how I'm feeling: I am noticing that I am more tired than I had been, but not too bad. The heart burn continues now and then but isn't continuous. My mid back and occasionally lower back hurts by the end of the day and it is difficult to find a comfortable position, even in bed, but I am sleeping pretty well regardless and waking feeling better than I did the previous night. Roo continues to be very active and at times the kicks, punches and stretches can be painful. His position is definitely putting pressure on my bladder as I need to go more often and I can feel pressure in my pelvis. So far, nothing really major to complain about. We remain healthy and happy.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Doctor visit update
Nothing too exciting to report from the visit. The glucose test left me feeling less than 100% and I was quite bummed to find out I couldn't drink anything after drinking the required liquid so I was stuck with the taste of overly sugary not so good Orange Fanta in my mouth for close to an hour.
I've gained 6 lbs. in the last 6 weeks, right about where we should be. Doc says that the bump and baby are growing well and is quite active. I half figured Roo would decide to be absolutely still and calm during the appointment since I had said it feels as if he is constantly moving. We got to see the heart (all 4 chambers which is quite neat). As the doc was looking around, trying to see if he could get a good face pic I was able to see fingers and possibly toes. We were able to see practice breathing and swallowing. Didn't get a great face shot (attempt in 3-D) because Roo is sitting with a hand next to an ear. At this point, Roo is in breach position, but with 13 weeks left there is plenty of time to flip around.
Next appointment in a month, right after New Years.
I've gained 6 lbs. in the last 6 weeks, right about where we should be. Doc says that the bump and baby are growing well and is quite active. I half figured Roo would decide to be absolutely still and calm during the appointment since I had said it feels as if he is constantly moving. We got to see the heart (all 4 chambers which is quite neat). As the doc was looking around, trying to see if he could get a good face pic I was able to see fingers and possibly toes. We were able to see practice breathing and swallowing. Didn't get a great face shot (attempt in 3-D) because Roo is sitting with a hand next to an ear. At this point, Roo is in breach position, but with 13 weeks left there is plenty of time to flip around.
Next appointment in a month, right after New Years.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Half Way There!!!
Well, I had my 20 week doctor's appointment today. Everything looks quite good. The doctor hasn't expressed any concerns and other than the occasional lingering cough and some heartburn I am feeling quite well. Another quick visit with the doctor. My blood pressure has come back down (I get nervous at the office and it is higher than I would like). Another quick ultrasound (seems to be the doctor's norm). The doc was looking at the umbilical cord to make sure all the vessels look okay and checking to see if we could determine the sex or not. The doc is sure he knows what we are having, but seeing as I know there is at least one person who doesn't want to know, I'll leave that for you to ask me about. Next visit will be a longer one, as I have to do the glucose/diabetes test :P (ick) I have to stay there for at least an hour. I may or may not bring Jeff with me, despite it being visit he had planned on going to (every other one). Due to Thanksgiving, I won't be seeing the Doc again until Dec. 6th after I'm back from MN.
I had a wonderful trip to New York to see a friend from college marry a friend from high school. I got to see lots of folks I haven't seen in a long time and share our happy news. The trip was relatively uneventful, however it wasn't easy to get comfortable in the seats. My back was quite achy through most of the flights.
Nothing else going on. I only have 17 working days left until I am done working.
I had a wonderful trip to New York to see a friend from college marry a friend from high school. I got to see lots of folks I haven't seen in a long time and share our happy news. The trip was relatively uneventful, however it wasn't easy to get comfortable in the seats. My back was quite achy through most of the flights.
Nothing else going on. I only have 17 working days left until I am done working.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Doctor visit
The visit with the Doc went well today. Everything still looks good. The baby and my uterus are growing as they should. We had a much more extensive ultrasound than the last few. We heard a heart beat, saw the head (including an eye, nose, mouth and chin), saw the spine, femurs, the abdomen (or a cross section of it). I've gained 6 lbs. total since my first appointment with my PCP back in July. That's about all for now.
Monday, August 27, 2007
Feeling Good
I was explaining to someone I met the other night about Fibromyalgia and got to the point where I talk about pain levels. I said, "My normal pain level was between a 6 and 8." She wondered how I lived like that and a friend that was sitting and listening asked what my levels are now that I'm pregnant. It was at that point that I realized that my pain has really gone away for the most part. Any little aches and pains I feel don't even rate on the scale I'm used to using. They are just so low. In addition to that, my fatigue is much less. Granted that I am tired, but much of that is just the pregnancy. It's a much different feeling than being fatigued. On a night I get little or poor sleep, I do notice a change in my fatigue levels, but it takes very little to get back to having little to no fatigue. It's such a wonderful change.
Other than that I'm feeling pretty good. The morning sickness is basically gone. I occasionally notice a bit of nausea, but nothing compared to what I had. Some of the food aversions are still around (mainly eggs), but I've been able to prepare a couple of dinners that we then cooked on the grill. It's nice to eat at home again.
I went out and bought my first round of maternity clothes last Wednesday. My best friend from college, Allie, was in town for the day for work and we had dinner together and then hit Motherhood Maternity shop. Allie is great with shopping and helping it be less of a chore for me. She also shops sales and such, like me, which is great. We had limited time, because she had to get to the airport for her flight home, but we managed quite a haul for not too expensive. I got one pair of pants (supposed to be cropped, but hit just a the foot for me), a pant set, a nice dress for the upcoming weddings, a causal dress, 5 t-shirts, and 2 pks of 3 pr of underware. The shirts and dresses were the most pressing items I needed, seeing as my bust has increased in size and much of what I own is no longer appropriate to be wearing to work. I still have several pairs of pants that fit and I can wear to work, so no rush in that area yet.
In other news, we managed to go out and buy a new car to replace the stolen and totaled Accord. We really had intended on just looking, as we haven't gotten the check from insurance yet, but the dealership is willing to hold our check until next Wednesday, allowing for time to get that check. We have the deal worked out for the lowest possible amount we would get, and if we get more, we will renegotiate the contract, likely shortening the length and decreasing the APR while keeping about the same payments. Jeff is very happy with the new car. **EDIT** I just got off the phone with the insurance adjuster and we got around what I expected, perhaps a bit more. We will be able to renegotiate the deal for a year shorter with the same payments and less interest. Yay!! I'll be very happy for this to be all over with.**END EDIT** We got a 2007 Toyota Camry. Very few extras, but it drives quite nicely and with the security system we got in it (for a steal of a price) the car is rated as "nearly unstealable". We are quite pleased and that is more stress that is gone from our lives. We can return the rental car today (which we really don't like). Soon, all of this will be behind us.
That's about it. Next Doctor's appointment is on Thursday.
Other than that I'm feeling pretty good. The morning sickness is basically gone. I occasionally notice a bit of nausea, but nothing compared to what I had. Some of the food aversions are still around (mainly eggs), but I've been able to prepare a couple of dinners that we then cooked on the grill. It's nice to eat at home again.
I went out and bought my first round of maternity clothes last Wednesday. My best friend from college, Allie, was in town for the day for work and we had dinner together and then hit Motherhood Maternity shop. Allie is great with shopping and helping it be less of a chore for me. She also shops sales and such, like me, which is great. We had limited time, because she had to get to the airport for her flight home, but we managed quite a haul for not too expensive. I got one pair of pants (supposed to be cropped, but hit just a the foot for me), a pant set, a nice dress for the upcoming weddings, a causal dress, 5 t-shirts, and 2 pks of 3 pr of underware. The shirts and dresses were the most pressing items I needed, seeing as my bust has increased in size and much of what I own is no longer appropriate to be wearing to work. I still have several pairs of pants that fit and I can wear to work, so no rush in that area yet.
In other news, we managed to go out and buy a new car to replace the stolen and totaled Accord. We really had intended on just looking, as we haven't gotten the check from insurance yet, but the dealership is willing to hold our check until next Wednesday, allowing for time to get that check. We have the deal worked out for the lowest possible amount we would get, and if we get more, we will renegotiate the contract, likely shortening the length and decreasing the APR while keeping about the same payments. Jeff is very happy with the new car. **EDIT** I just got off the phone with the insurance adjuster and we got around what I expected, perhaps a bit more. We will be able to renegotiate the deal for a year shorter with the same payments and less interest. Yay!! I'll be very happy for this to be all over with.**END EDIT** We got a 2007 Toyota Camry. Very few extras, but it drives quite nicely and with the security system we got in it (for a steal of a price) the car is rated as "nearly unstealable". We are quite pleased and that is more stress that is gone from our lives. We can return the rental car today (which we really don't like). Soon, all of this will be behind us.
That's about it. Next Doctor's appointment is on Thursday.
Thursday, August 2, 2007
First OB appt.
We had our first OB appointment today. I had a chance to ask a lot of the questions that I had about the MD's philosophy and views on many things. For the most part I am happy with the answers and both Jeff and I are comfortable with him. Once the intake paperwork was filled out, we were taken back for weighing and blood pressure. Then we went into Dr. Kizner's office to discuss family history stuff. Once that was covered, we headed into the exam room. The results/reports from my PCP were missing from my file (to be found and added before we left), but since she had done a full work up when I went in for my initial visit with her the only test left to perform was an ultrasound.
The ultrasound went quite smoothly, the doctor telling us what we were looking at as it went along. Everything looks good. We saw the fetus and yolk sack. Based on the size, the estimated due date is 3/13, but based on my LMP the due date is 3/11. The doc will keep the due date there. I think the most exciting part was getting to hear the baby's heartbeat. It was strong and 160 beats per minute.
The oddest part of the visit had to be the feeling of the ultrasound. I could feel the waves in my upper belly like pulsations. Definitely odd and not something I was expecting. We got lots of pamphlets and things to look at and decide to what level we want to do testing. Now that we have heard the heart, I am much more comfortable letting people know that we are pregnant.
Pictures soon (hopefully) of the expanding belly. I've noticed most of my pants are either tight or no longer fit. If I can find a scanner to use, we may be able to get the ultrasound pic up here as well. I'm still feeling all day sick, with it getting worse as the day progresses. Luckily I'm just feeling sick and not being sick. I usually can find something to eat, even if it doesn't calm the stomach at all.
Next appointment is at the end of the month. Jeff will join me again for the 4 month appointment where another ultrasound will be done (and more comprehensive).
The ultrasound went quite smoothly, the doctor telling us what we were looking at as it went along. Everything looks good. We saw the fetus and yolk sack. Based on the size, the estimated due date is 3/13, but based on my LMP the due date is 3/11. The doc will keep the due date there. I think the most exciting part was getting to hear the baby's heartbeat. It was strong and 160 beats per minute.
The oddest part of the visit had to be the feeling of the ultrasound. I could feel the waves in my upper belly like pulsations. Definitely odd and not something I was expecting. We got lots of pamphlets and things to look at and decide to what level we want to do testing. Now that we have heard the heart, I am much more comfortable letting people know that we are pregnant.
Pictures soon (hopefully) of the expanding belly. I've noticed most of my pants are either tight or no longer fit. If I can find a scanner to use, we may be able to get the ultrasound pic up here as well. I'm still feeling all day sick, with it getting worse as the day progresses. Luckily I'm just feeling sick and not being sick. I usually can find something to eat, even if it doesn't calm the stomach at all.
Next appointment is at the end of the month. Jeff will join me again for the 4 month appointment where another ultrasound will be done (and more comprehensive).
Monday, July 16, 2007
Doctor's Appointment
Friday I went to have a check up with my PCP. Everything looks good. I'm not completely comfortable with everything she said about natural births, however, from what I've read about the OB she has referred me to I am ecstatic. He has a VERY low rate of Cesarean sections. :) Everything I have read about him makes me comfortable. I have my first appointment in early August. We will see from there.
The one thing that really irked me about the doctor's appointment is that she said she was ordering labs. I asked if it was just blood or blood and urine and she said just blood, so I used the bathroom. Sure enough, I get the paperwork and UA is checked. Gah. They took 10 vials of blood (she said it should be everything the OB would want results of) and then I had to take a cup home and take it back to the labs on Sat. morning.
Still feeling well. Possibly more tired than usual (hard to believe) and the fibro is still here and kicking.
The one thing that really irked me about the doctor's appointment is that she said she was ordering labs. I asked if it was just blood or blood and urine and she said just blood, so I used the bathroom. Sure enough, I get the paperwork and UA is checked. Gah. They took 10 vials of blood (she said it should be everything the OB would want results of) and then I had to take a cup home and take it back to the labs on Sat. morning.
Still feeling well. Possibly more tired than usual (hard to believe) and the fibro is still here and kicking.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)