Pregnancy Review

This was pregnancy #: 1

Getting pregnant: took 9 months and medical intervention. If you are in your 30's when trying, do not waste your time.

To sum up my pregnancy in 3 words or less: exciting, easy, miraculous

Favorite thing about pregnancy: feeling the baby move

Least favorite thing about pregnancy: figuring out child-care

1st trimester review (emotions, thoughts, symptoms, etc): Even though we very much wanted to get pregnant, we were in disbelief for a long time when it actually happened. Insomnia was an unexpected symptom. Developed hives, allergic reaction to lotion, that was miserable. Nausea and fatigue were very mild and manageable. I was actually more confidant and relaxed than I thought I would be, but strangely I was also prepared that losses are common.

2nd trimester review: Love the ease of the second trimester, you feel good and start to look pregnant too! Lots of planning and preparing for baby. Joint pains, carpel tunnel, pubic pain, were unexpected symptoms.

3rd trimester review: Definitely the toughest trimester physically and emotionally, so by this time you're ready for pregnancy to be over.

Best advice given to me: #1) It is possible to eat sushi in pregnancy! #2) Co-sleeping with baby is great. #3) You can successfully work full-time and breastfeed. #4) Start looking for child-care immediately.

Worst advice given to me: old wives tales about things that I do that can affect baby in stupid ways such as birthmarks or hurting baby.

Best purchase in pregnancy: belly band and maternity bra.

Worst purchase in pregnancy: maternity underwear.

Number of ultrasounds: 6!

Any scares: one at 19 weeks when they briefly suspected amniotic band syndrome, but instead found another sac in there, later confirmed it was a twin.

Any complications: see above answer. Also marginal placenta previa which resolved itself.

Original due date: 11/6/2010

Actual birth date: 10/18/10

Labor & Delivery was: surprisingly quick and manageable (as far as labor and delivery can go, mind you), no pain medications, 2nd degree tear.

Name and birth stats: Elena Rose Phillips born at 11:54 AM on 10/18/10. 6 lbs 14 oz. 20 inches long. Natural childbirth.

Advice I give to others: #1) Never awaken a pregnant woman - she needs sleep! #2) Be careful how you comment on her looks. Women - people will say all kinds of things to you, just take it all with a grain of salt. #3) Buy the "Secret Fit Belly" Motherhood maternity clothing instead of other types of elastic bands, Secret Fit works best and shows no lines under clothing. #4) When you start to get bigger, use either satin sheets or wear satin pyjamas, it helps you turn over in bed or to get out of bed.


Kim's silly advice for the VERY pregnant woman:

1) Do NOT drop anything! If you do, it's just gonna' have to stay there.

2) I can see that now there are two good reasons for someone to drive ridiculously slow over a speed bump: poor suspension system, and 8 months pregnant.

3) If you are sitting or laying in a reclined position, you will look like a crab that is stuck on its back- arms and legs flailing until they catch onto something to help it turn over. Another visual is having a bowling ball attached to your stomach.

4) Be sure to pamper yourself with a pedicure and a prenatal massage. Oh, yeah!!