Newly pregnant and bleeding...help!

[Charliejo83]

I've just written a massive reply and then lost it!! How annoying!

I will quickly summarise as I have to do some work today got a million meetings to attend!

Midwife booking in appt was good - but prob a bit of an anti-climax as all I did was fill in a million forms and answer a load of questions about my medical history! I gave a pee sample and then she needed to take 4 vials of blood! Bus as per usual my veins did not co-operate and after a few attempts (one from the back of my hand) I was sent off to the hospital for them to have a go!!

I think I've attached the scan photo - it prob isn't the best quality as I basically took a photo of it on my phone. I'm rubbish with scan photos as I never know what I am looking at but maybe you 2 will be able to see the handstand!

Happenstance - you are over the 12 week mark - that is just toooooo exciting I sometimes feel like I am never going to get there! I agree a lime is definitely bigger than a plum but the 12 weeks milestone is so much more improtant than worrying about that!!

Akblaze - I am so sorry that you are feeling so unwell - make sure you are getting plenty of rest and looking after yourself!!

I had a few pains around my ovaries and in my stomach last night but nothing major so I am promising myself I won't stress and that I WILL NOT google!! Think I am going to invest in a doppler this weekend though!

I am soooo tired at the minute - are you guys still feeling this? Feel so sorry for my OH as by the time he gets in from the gym on an evening I'm ready for bed!

Oh and yes the spotting is still stopped - 5 whole days now - so glad yours has too Happenstance

Right best got on with my super busy day - I'm tired just thinking about it!!

 

[Happenstance]

Akblaze I'm so glad the midwife was really nice, I had previously assumed all midwives were pretty nice but since TTC I've heard some real horror stories about bad ones. So I'm glad you got a super nice one - I don't want just anyone looking after the safety of my niece!!!

I'm sorry you're not feeling any better though. How long have you to wait before going back to her? It doesn't sound like it'll get better on it's own if you're continuing to feel worse (although, I have everything crossed that it will!) How are you feeling today? Has the tylenol helped with the headaches? And you must be having real problems if it's making your teeth hurt too. I feel so sorry for you! I hope you're getting lots of sleep and lazing about doing as little as possible.

It's quite reassuring that she says this is the worst part of pregnancy for you, at least you know it'll get better! Funnily enough, I've started having the odd headache (and I hardly ever get headaches) but they're not too sore - they just feel like I'e been reading in the dark and have an eye-strain headache. I take it I can look forward to more of these...!!!

It's funny how the midwife and OB are dating you differently. Did they use different scanning equipment? I seem to measure differently at each scan. One minute I've almost caught up and the next I seem to be small again. I reckon our babies are just enjoying each stage they're at and making sure they grow perfectly without rushing ahead and missing something important! If you really are dating around 17 and a half weeks then it could be another couple of weeks before you start to feel flutters, although I hope she starts her ninja kicking long before that! I wouldn't worry about it in the interim though.

I haven't used my doppler again yet. I seem to have been pretty busy with one thing or another lately and when I've had a chance to sit down I tend to pass out! I just can't seem to make it past 9pm anymore! Although, I suppose I have been waking up quite early. My DH pointed out a big problem that I have, and that is that once I'm awake, I'm awake. I can't get back to sleep again. So, it's no problem right now, but if I'm up all through the night with a baby then I'll NEVER get to sleep. I spoke to my mum about it and she said not to worry, I'll never be getting any sleep anyway!!! Thanks, mum!

I feel terrible that your DH is so far away and can't run around and get you blue slushie drinks when you want them! Has there been any more talk about when he might be coming home? Perhaps instead of hiring a doula you could hire a butler, someone who could attend to your every whim! I think that would be a GREAT idea! The good news for DH is that my cravings have now moved on to peas and vinegar. I absolutely hate the thought of most foods right now, but peas and vinegar...mmmmm, loving it!

I love the dream of you having a toddler daughter and a baby boy. How cute would that be!!! I reckon that is a little premonition and that your next bub is going to be a little baby boy. And you had better get a move on after this one if you want your little bundle of joy to still be a little toddler when he's born! No pressure!!!

I hope you are feeling a bit better today but, if not, make sure and get plenty of rest and take things as easy as possible. Has the sickness still stayed away? I hope so, you don't need to be feeling sick on top of everything else. And remember and drink plenty of water. Dehydration will not help at all!

Sending you and your onion/sweet potato massive get well

CharlieJo what a wonderful pic!!! I don't know about you, but I couldn't stop looking at my first scan pic (still can't!). It's so cute to see that baby is doing well and I think it's ridiculously cute to see them moving around. Congrats on such a wonderful scan pic!

How's the spotting? Still away? I hope so! I know what you mean about being busy at work. I sometimes don't know how I manage to cram everything into a day! Just remember not to do too much and to try and take it easy when you can. Have you told your work you're pregnant? I'm not planning on telling my work for a while yet. Luckily, I'm recovering from a wrist injury so I don't need to worry about them making me do any heavy lifting!

I'm glad your midwife booking in appointment is over but it does sound more like a visit to Count Dracula - what on earth do they need all that blood for! I'm like you in the vein dept, my veins NEVER co-operate. It's horrible because you start to feel a bit like a pin-cushion!

I wouldn't worry about pains too much, I get aches and pains all the time. Particularly if I stand up too quickly! It makes sense though when you think of all the stretching that's going on in there! Baby's just making him/herself nice and comfy for the next few months!

And good luck with buying the doppler. I've heard lots of people have found the heartbeat early, although I still struggle to find it!

As for the tiredness, I hear you! I've been completely shattered throughout the whole of my pregnancy so far. I've heard it gets better in second tri so I'm holding on to that thought! I try and get as much sleep as I can, when I can. My body's going through such a lot of new things that no wonder I'm tired. Plus, it's a good excuse to leave DH to do some extra housework! My DH quite likes that I'm asleep so early as he gets to watch whatever he wants on TV without having to watch my programmes!

Take it easy and make sure you get plenty of sleep

 

[akblaze]

CharlieJo What a gorgeous picture! I kinda does look like baby is doing a handstand! How cute!!!! I think you have a little gymnast in the making!!

I'm sorry to hear that the blood draw was so horrible!!!! I think I am a lucky one to have decent veins most of the time. Of course with all my tattoos it really doesn't phase me either way..

As for being tired, even in second tri I am just exhausted 24/7. Keeping up with my class work is just painful! I keep wondering when it's going to go away and get easier! It is absolutely WONDERFUL that your spotting is still gone!!! I am so happy for both you and Happenstance!!! I know how refreshing it can be waking up every day and seeing that your spotting is still gone and the aches and pains are most likely normal, but if you are worried then definitely talk to your midwife about them. I get SO many aches and pains around my belly area. There is so much going on in that area for us ladies!

I love having my doppler I got mine around 10 weeks and it was hard to find at first behind the pubic bone but as your uterus moves up it gets so much easier. Now I just struggle so much with my LO moving away from it and kicking it!

make sure you are taking it easy and getting plenty of rest
sending you and your LO lots of hugs!!

Happenstance I was a little nervous to see someone else besides my OB for baby care but since it was just for me being sick I didn't mind. I'm glad the midwife turned out to be nice though!!!

She said to give it about ten days or see if I get better and then get worse again. But there is still no progress! The nasal spray she told me to get is one that you can't take more than 2-3 days and it has helped with the sinus pressure. I'm still very congested but it's not like it was and my teeth pain is gone. I only took the tylenol one day so far. I really don't want to take it unless I'm just desperate for it. But now that my sinus pressure isn't as bad I have little white pockets of pus in my throat. It doesn't hurt too bad, just very scratchy and I'm starting to get a cough! I think my body is just going through every crummy thing on the board! My mom said I should call and let them know about my throat and I probably should have but I didn't.. I'm so stubborn and the MW said to wait it out so I'm trying! I figure I have an appointment on Monday so if I STILL have this then I think it's safe to say that I should go ahead with the antibiotics..
I'm definitely trying to rest as much as possible but with me being the only one here that is hard at times. Luckily my puppy dogs are great snugglers!

Oh no! I hope you don't start getting headaches.. they are no fun.. unfortunately common in second tri though! Sometimes a warm wash cloth on my forehead/eyes helps! I'm keeping my fingers crossed that this gets better for all of us!!

Well, the midwife was using my folder from my OB. They are in the same office and work together so she was going by what my OB had written. It's frustrating because last my OB told me, my EDD was "around aug 10-12" I'm really anxious to see her on monday and hopefully we do an ultrasound to see where the dates stand. At least I know that I'll have this little girl mid August! That's good enough for me as long as she's healthy! But if the OB put my EDD at a later date I should probably still know!

Hopefully you do find some spare time to use the doppler soon. but just think the longer you do wait the more your uterus will be rising so it might be easier! I'm still keeping my fingers crossed that you find it and he/she cooperates next time!!

It's definitely hard with him being gone but through the past 14 months I have learned that it's best to try and stay positive. It's such a bittersweet time around here right now for me because the first wave of soldiers just came home. I'm so happy for all of them but it just makes it harder for me! I'm staying positive though, they can't keep him away forever!!!

I don't think I've ever had peas and vinegar! I just love your cravings because they are so pregnant woman cravings! LOL! I still can't get over the blue slushie and pickles!!! The weirdest thing I've eaten this pregnancy is this butter pasta with ketchup.

Luckily the MS has stayed away the past few days. Now the rest of this needs to go away!!

How have you been? I'm SOOO happy that your spotting is still gone!!! Any other crazy dreams or bad aversions lately?

I hope you and your lovely plum baby are doing wonderful and getting lots of rest! Sending you both lots and lots of hugs (in a bubble so you don't get sick!!)

 

[Happenstance]

Oh no, that sounds like it's getting much worse Akblaze. I'm no expert, but I used to have lots of throat problems as a child and that sounds more like it's developed into tonsillitis to me. White pus spots in your throat are definitely not okay and I agree with your mum here, I would definitely call again. I know you want to wait but the midwife would only want you to wait if the symptoms were the same or better. If there's any change in symptoms, which there has been, then she'll definitely want to hear from you again. I guarantee it. There's no point suffering with that kind of thing and you don't want it to get any worse. Call them first thing in the morning - that's an order! Let me know how you get on.

I love that your dogs are good snugglers. My parents have a little dog and he's great for cuddles. He loves licking your face too, which isn't just as nice! I was looking after him yesterday and when he was getting picked up he didn't want to leave me. He ran back into my house and jumped into my arms as if to say "nice to see you all, but I'm staying here thanks!". It was so cute! My dad's worried that the puppy will get jealous when my baby arrives. I'm like, "yeah, that's a MAJOR problem for me right now!"

I'll try the warm cloth on forehead trick next time I get a headache. I seem to get them nearly every day now but they are nowhere near as bad as the ones you get. Only mildly uncomfortable. They make me want to shut my eyes and go to sleep! Actually, I had a horrible sleep last night. When I went to bed I saw a spider just above my bed DH tried to capture it but it fell and I'm POSITIVE it landed in my bed although DH couldn't find it. So I slept on the couch because I'm so terrified of spiders! I'm going to rip the bed apart today and shove it all in the washing machine There will also be a major hoover-fest before I go back to bed! DH didn't mind sleeping there. He said that with me gone, it would be nice if 'spidey' could keep him company!!!

I agree you need to check the due date and hopefully your OB will give you another scan on Monday to confirm. I know to these people it probably seems irrelevant what date the baby comes, but it's really important for us to know. And conflicting information is just awful, I hate confusion! Plus, it would be great to see my little niece again

I'm sorry the first wave of soldiers have come back and that it's making things harder for you. It just seems like such a long time for him to be away. Far too long. I honestly think it is just so unfair to ask families to go through that kind of thing. I really hope he gets to come home soon. Right, back to work on the teleportation device!!!

You must try the peas and vinegar, it's amazing! You need to use proper peas though. Get the dried marrowfat peas from the supermarket, soak them overnight and boil them the next day. Then mix them with malt vinegar. Mmmm, I want some more just thinking about it. I'm also addicted to pickles at the moment and DH hates that I smell of vinegar all the time. I'm still having major aversions to almost everything, other than peas of course! Although, I had gammon steak and pineapples last night and it was lovely! :drool:

I'm starting to think DH doesn't believe in my aversions. He can't seem to understand why I can't go anywhere near the dishwasher as the smell makes me feel sick, but I don't mind going to the bin! I've told him it makes no sense to me either but I just have to go with the flow!!!

Butter pasta and ketchup does sound weird. Definitely don't think I could go there! Mind you, perhaps my brain will convert that into a craving at a later date!!!

I'm glad the MS has stayed away for a bit, but you need some pills now to get the rest of it gone. I'm sure they'll give you something once they've examined you again. Is it sore to eat?

As for your tattoos, I'm dying to hear about them! How many, where and what off? And when did you get them? I'm not brave enough to get tattoos gone. Plus, I'm really fickle so I reckon what I liked one day I would go off the next. Hey, just look at my food aversions! I want to hear all about them, you're so brave!

Thanks for sending the hugs in a bubble, very thoughtful of you. I'm sending you hugs with a get well pack attached (it's got lots of cool things in it like grapes, Lucozade, magazines, chocolates and magic get well pills!)

CharlieJo how are things with you? Hope all is going well and that work is getting slightly less busy! Sending you

Hit Girl come back and see us!!!

 

[Happenstance]

PS You're a MANGO!!! WOW

 

[akblaze]

I knooww, I should really know better. I've had strep soooo many times growing up and tonsilitis. I really don't think this is strep but very much could be tonsilitis. I just know there is nothing they can do if this is viral. I'm not sure if the pus pockets means it has moved to bacterial or not.. Probably worth a call just in case. I suppose I should do that in the morning. It will suck waiting all weekend if this continues to get worse.

Awww, your parents dog sounds so cute!!! I couldn't imagine not having our little furbabies. I was actually watching this NOVA episode tonight on TV. They were saying how dogs give us the same response in our brains that babies do. It's the same exact emotional feel good response in our frontal lobe. They were also saying how dogs are the only animal that can really read a persons emotions and respond to them. Oh great, now I sound like the crazy dog lady!!!! The show was so interesting though!

Definitely try the warm wash cloth! Another good thing is one of the therapeutic face masks full of beads that you stick in the microwave. I just got one that is made for your sinuses but I know they also make them for headaches. Putting different scents in them. I just think those can be the most relaxing things when not feeling well!
Oh gosh, I hate spiders too!!! I'm so sorry you had to sleep on the couch, but I so would've too!!!! Actually, I think you are nicer than me! If DH couldn't find the spider here I would've made him help me change the sheets right then and there so I could still sleep in the bed!

The due date thing is starting to bug me! Only with tickers though... it's silly.. I saw that I was a mango and was so happy then was like awww what if my dates are off and I'm just getting to sweet potato! But hey, as long as she's growing, happy, and healthy!

I will have to try the peas and vinegar sometime! I'm so not a cook but will give it a shot! I think it's just harder cooking for one. And your DH can suck it up with you smelling like vinegar! As long as you and baby are happy! I also wish I had a dish soap aversion, then maybe DH would let me hire someone to come do the dishes for me!!!

My throat really isn't that painful, mostly scratchy. I'm still really congested but the pressure isn't as painful. Still sneezing and still getting more of a cough. Oh gosh, and when I sneeze... sometimes I tinkle a little!!!!! How embarrassing!!! I told DH and he just started laughing!!! ok... it's kind of funny.. but I was so shocked! Maybe this is a sign that I should work on doing kegels!

Oh and my tattoos. It's funny because I have 9 and DH has none, but he loves them as much as I do so he doesn't mind Tattoos are definitely a huge step, at least to me.. all of mine are very meaningful. My sister, she's a few years older than me, is so different. She has close to 30 tattoos and they are all just random but she loves them so I don't judge. I just prefer mine to be meaningful. My first tattoo was in 2008 and my latest was right before I got pregnant.. actually two tattoos are still "in progress" since I'm not one of the women who risk getting tattoos while preg!
Well, my first was my right side.. I have an imperial dragon with the chinese symbols for faith, love, and peace and three cherry blossoms. I also have a peace sign on each wrist, a bracelet of the infinity symbols (aristotle said, "infinity is the lack of limitations"), "know your rights" with a symbol of freedom on my left forearm, on my left side is "John" my husbands name with tiger lillies, Also, I have dragon fly wings tattooed as half sleeves all the way down to my lower back and my whole chest is done (my favorite by far) I have lotus flowers on each side of my chest. I had the ones on the left done years ago with my parents names in arabic (since my dad fought in saudi) and just last summer had the rest added on. Lotus flowers on the other side of my chest and in the middle is a Ganesha (The Hindu God for overcoming obstacles) with "beautiful mistake" written in sanskrit above it.
With our kiddos I plan on getting their foot prints on the side of my thigh, so it'll look like they are walking up my thighs. Well, so far that's my idea!
I also have quite a few piercings, I just love that sense of expression. It's really just who I am. Still makes me laugh because DH is so different. He talks about getting a tattoo one day but we'll see!

How are you and your LO doing today? Hopefully wonderful!!! I can't believe your scan is still so far away!!!! I'm ready to see my little niece/nephew again! I'm sure you're so ready to see your little one again too!!! Any thoughts on trying the doppler again soon? And thank you for the get well pack! I really appreciate it!

well, time for bed on this end! Have a wonderful day you two!!
Sending you and your gorgeous plum soooo many hugs from my bundle of joy and me! (still in a bubble though!!!)

 

[Charliejo83]

Hi ladies

Well I didn't have a great day yesterday - but am determined to be more positive today! I've had really bad constipation the past week (TMI I know) and along with a UTI (which I now have antibiotics for) I've been in quite a lot of pain (which obviously freaked me out).

Anyway tried to go to the toilet yesterday pm (again sorry for TMI) and I bled a little which was just devastating after nothing for nearly a week! I immediately stopped trying to go! But last night when I was going to bed I had the worse pains that made me almost double over so thought I was just going to have to deal with the bleeding and go to the toilet! Lucky everything was fine and I didn't bleed!

My DH had a stern word with me last night about keep getting worked up over everything and I have decided he is right! I was just feeling so sure something was wrong as on top of all that I have not had any MS for 2 days (when I have it I wish for it to go but when I don't I wish it was there). My boobs are still very sore and very firm though!

Anyway today is another day and I am determined to be positive - I've ordered a doppler too that should be with me next week. My DH has told me I am not to even try it til 10 weeks but that is def not going to happen

Akblaze I agree it sounds like tonsillitus - I too used to suffer alot with this when I was younger and it is awful - why won't they give you antibiotics? I've just been given some amoxicillan for my UTI -they're the same ones I used to get for tonsillitus so they must be safe for pregnancy? Seems a bit much to ask you to suffer for so long before they will give you any! I say get straight on the phone tell them it is getting worse and you really need some!!

Happenstance have you tried your doppler again yet? You def need to keep me informed as I will def be having a go of mine next week (I know it is way too early but mine says it picks up from 10 weeks so I will only be a few days out!)

Anyway ladies make sure you are taking care of yourselves! Lots of to you both and your LO's

 

[Charliejo83]

Yes looks like the spotting is back - light pink and practically non existent but definitely there! Feel so gutted - but I suppose I should have expected it as last time I had a clear week and then it came back for another week!

Should I call my MW or should I just carry on as normal if it doesn't get worse? I am having mild AF cramping but am pretty sure that is exactly as it was before.

God damn this stupid spotting!!

 

[Happenstance]

Akblaze how are you feeling? Still just as bad? I hope all goes well at your appointment today, both with you and LO. I've been keeping my fingers crossed that you get another scan so I get to see my gorgeous little niece again! I'm hoping that you're going to write back with great news about how you're feeling much better, but I have a feeling you'll still be feeling pretty horrible. I hope they give you something to take the nasty bug away and make you feel better. And I hope you get your due date sorted out! I mean come on, a woman's gotta know when she's expected to hang around the delivery ward! Plus, it's important we know if we've got a sweet potato or a mango!!!

Well, I went for my NT scan yesterday (I got more pics but haven't had time to put them on the computer yet. I've been having some problems with the computer that I need to sort and I just can't be bothered at the moment!). The good news is that baby was big enough to have the scan. Last time, when I was 11 plus 3, it measured 43mm. Yesterday, 12 plus 5, it measured 62mm! That's some growth spurt! It was so cute that I got to see bubs on Mother's Day and, because it was Mother's Day, I took both my DH and my mum to the scan. She was over the moon! Baby was in the wrong position for the scan so I got sent to the toilet to pee. When I came back it had turned right around and was doing a little dance! It was kicking away and even gave me an 'A-okay' sign with it's fingers. You know, like clasping them into a little zero shape! It was so cute! Also, I measured EXACTLY 12 plus 5 which was great. So they gave me an estimated due date: 25th of September. Which is really special as my birthday is the 26th of September and DH is the 27th of September!!! I hope you get a lovely scan today as well!

Oh, and for the record, you don't sound like a crazy dog lady! I love all that animal behaviour stuff. When my parents' dog wants me to do something he starts putting on a crying baby sound. He knows EXACTLY what he's doing!!!

I'm sorry for the tinkling when your sneezing thing, but I've heard that happens to most pregnant women. I'm sure my time will come!!! As for kegels, do you do them often? I haven't really started yet but I need to. It just feels...I dunno...weird!!!

Now for the tattoos. I LOVE that they all really meaningful to you. Although I don't have any, if I did, I would want them to mean something too. I think it's great that you have two 'in progress' ones!!! I just love the idea of the infinity symbol and 'know your rights'. Those things are very me. I'm a bit of a campaigner for women's rights (and people's rights in general) both in a work-related way and a personal way so those sayings are right up my street!

I don't know how you were brave enough to get so many. Did they not hurt??? I don't know if you ever saw the Friends episode where Phoebe went to get a tattoo? The tattoo artist put one dot on her arm and she said it was too sore and told him to stop. She then told everyone else it wasn't a dot, it was a globe and a 'picture of the whole world'! I reckon that would be me! I also love the whole 'beautiful mistake' thing. I think that's so lovely. And the thought of little foot prints for your little 'uns sounds perfect. Soooo cute! Hey, you could get one of those fake tattoos made (you know, the kind you put on with water) with a little footprint and Gracelynn Joy underneath. Then, pretend to your DH that it's real and that you've already decided on her name! Then, it's too late for him to change it!!! Oh, I must have an evil mind! As for piercings, I have my ears done. That's it. I remember asking to have my belly button pierced when I was a teenager and my mum told me no way. I don't know what would happen now if I'd got it done. Would my belly just get so big it would pop the belly stud out?!?!

Hope you are feeling much better (sending lots of get well just in case) and I hope you get lots more pics of your little bundle of joy Hurry back and let us know how you got on!

CharlieJo I'm sorry to hear that the spotting is back but don't get too disheartened. It happened to me too and hopefully it won't be long until it disappears again. I mentioned my spotting to the sonographer at my scan yesterday. She said that spotting in early pregnancy is really common and that it is normally to do with the cervix. Apparently, your cervix thickens quite a bit during pregnancy and sometimes this can bleed. She said although it's stressful, it's so common. And at least we've all seen a heartbeat so we know that our babies are doing okay. I'll keep my fingers crossed that your spotting stops again really soon.

As for the constipation, I hear you! I've been suffering with that a lot. I've also had a bit of cystitis so I can share your pain on both fronts (excuse the pun!!!) I'm sorry you've been in pain but I hope the antibiotics have started to help a bit. Have the doctors given you anything for the constipation? I haven't taken anything for it. I've just been trying to eat as much veg and fibre as I can. When I'm not feeling sick that is!

Oh, and don't worry about the vanishing MS. I had the exact same thing when I was at your stage. Apparently, it's because the placenta is starting to take over and that is why you feel a bit better. But don't worry, it'll come back!!! Just enjoy these days!

And your DH is right, it's no use getting worked up over everything, but I'm afraid it's something that us preggo ladies just can't help! So if you ever need to talk/vent then we're here. I still poke my boobs nearly every day to check if they're still sore (which is probably why they are still sore!!! ) and I panic when I have a symptom disappear. I think we'll panic right up until baby's here and then we'll have lots more to panic about!

And congrats on ordering the doppler! Have you tried it yet? I'm really rubbish at trying to find it! I haven't tried again yet as my two scans quite close together kept me going. However, I think in a few days time I'll be back on the doppler!!! Let me know how you get on with it.

Oh and sorry, I just realised I didn't answer your question about the spotting. If I was you, I would call my MW and let her know about the spotting. I always think it's best to give all the information to the professionals so they can advise you best.

If only I had a midwife to call...!!! Oh well, only four more weeks to go...!

Sending you and your LO massive

 

[Charliejo83]

Happenstance - soooo excited to see your scan picture! That is so amazing you got to see your LO on Mother's Day!! I'm so happy that your LO is measuring so perfectly, you must have been so happy when they told you that!

Akblaze - I really hope you are feeling much better and have been getting plenty of rest this weekend!

I went home to my parents for the weekend in Manchester and I think it was just what the doctor ordered as I am feeling more relaxed about everything now! The spotting has been at bay since Friday which is comforting, and my boobs are def still sore so I am going to try and stop poking them haha!!

My Doppler had arrived when I got home last night so I had a go and I am 90% sure I heard the HB!! It is so difficult to distringuish between my own and the baby as there is no LCD monitor on mine - but when i listened to my DH's HB it was obviously a lot slower than the one we heard - when I went to find it again though I couldn't! It has put my mind at rest though and I think I will leave it until the end of the week before I have another go now (well I will try anyway)

Thanks for the kind words - you girls have really kept me sane over these past couple of weeks and I can't thank you enough - just 3 more weeks till i hit the 3 month mark and can hopefully relax!

 

[akblaze]

Happenstance Well, bad news is I'm still sick! But the good news is I'm (very) slowly getting better! Now it's mainly congestion and all the icky drainage. Which makes it HORRIBLE to sleep! My appt with my OB today went good! No ultrasound though. My next appt is April 2 and she said we'll do an ultrasound at that appointment. She just measured my uterus and commented on how its really poppin out there for the world to see! and we listened to baby. I completely forgot to ask about my due date question because I was trying to remember the labor tub question lol. But I suppose the due date question is best suited for my next ultrasound. At least I know she'll come around mid august! I do believe their dates have me due at aug. 18. I suppose I'll just change my tickers to that.
On a good note she said as of now I should be okay to labor in the tub like I want!

I'm SOOOOO happy that your scan went great!!! That definitely is quite the growth spurt!!! and getting to see your little one on mothers day is so wonderful!!! I think mothers day in the US is in May. I so can't wait to see pictures of your LO!!!! That's so wonderful that you got to see him/her bouncing around and giving you an "a-okay" sign!!! That is so stinkin cute! he/she is just like "see mommy, I'm doing great in here!!!" and as for the due date, that is soo meant to be!!! awww you just gave me the warm fuzzies inside!!!! I'm so happy for you and your DH!!!!

I haven't been doing kegels as much as I should.. I just never think about doing them! Until I sneeze and tinkle a little DH loves to tickle me (especially when I'm mad) because I'm so ticklish and he said he's excited to come home and do that! I told him NO! I would probably pee myself!!!! of course he'd just get a kick out of that!!! I guess I should start doing kegels over time!

About the tattoos, they definitely hurt. Some more than others. My chest was BY FAR the worst.. I think it's crazy how people say the sides are the worst.. and yeah, the ribs are painful... but absolutely none of mine compared to my chest. It was borderline torture! Call me crazy for getting them then, lol. I guess I just see the pain as worth it. I definitely don't enjoy getting them but I love the outcome. I should so do that with the name gracelynn joy on a temporary tat! DH knows that I would never get a tattoo while pregnant though. I absolutely hate seeing women that do that!!
I've also seen some women who are able to keep their belly rings in the whole pregnancy and some women that had to take them out. I still have mine in, with just a small flexible pregnancy belly piercing. my belly button has already popped though, no longer an innie so I really don't know if it'll last the whole pregnancy. We'll see!

Oh!!! I'm so happy!! Today I went to the store and the girl that was cashiering said "I don't mean to be rude, but are you pregnant?" I was sooo happy!!! first stranger to say anything so I'm just glad I'm starting to actually look pregnant!

I hope you and your LO are doing wonderful!!! Have you used the doppler any more? I can't wait to see your ultrasound pics!!! I'm so excited to see my niece/nephew!!!!
Sending you both loooadddss of hugs!!!!

Charliejo Oh I'm so sorry to hear that your spotting returned but it's wonderful that it has been away since friday!!! Hopefully it stays that way this time!!! I'll be keeping my fingers crossed!!

That's so wonderful that you got to hear the babies HB too It's such a beautiful sound! If you have doubts of whether it's yours or the babies you can time it with a watch and count how many beats you hear in 6 seconds and times that by 10 It's easy to get the HB mixed in with the placenta too since I do believe that's about 115-120bpm. I just read that on here somewhere, not sure how accurate it is!

That's great that you got to go see your family for the weekend! I bet your body was so happy to relax a little! If your spotting returns it definitely wouldn't hurt to call your midwife and let her know. You never know, she might bring you in for an ultrasound and I know we all love seeing our LO's! Definitely listen to your body though, if something doesn't feel right then it's best to give your mw a call and let her know. We definitely know our bodies better than they do!

Your DH is definitely right too.. of course, I'm guilty of getting worked up over everything too. Which I know made it harder for my DH to be deployed. He just kept assuring me that everything would be fine and that I needed to relax... easy for them to say! But, they're right. I know our LO's appreciate it when we are relaxed and not stressing over everything

I really hope you and your LO are doing good and that the spotting stays away!!! My fingers are crossed!!! Sending you both massive hugs!

Hit Girl we hope you are starting to feel better and that your ms is going away!!!! we miss you! sending you and your LO bunches and bunches of hugs!!!

 

[Happenstance]

CharlieJo I'm glad you got to spend some relaxing time with your parents, there's nothing better than having mum and dad fussing over you! I can barely go for a pee in my parents' house without them offering to 'help' me

That's a great tip on using the doppler from Akblaze. I actually found it pretty hard finding my own heartbeat as I kept finding the placenta noise. It always ranges from about 115-125bpm so it can be easily confused for baby. I knew I was on it when the numbers jumped up into 160-170bpm. But the little thing is pretty squirmy and it moved after one or two seconds. So it was more of a fleeting 'hello' rather than the thundering horse noise I've seen on the YouTube videos. Where do both of you find baby? I tend to find it really low down, near my pubic bone, and on the left hand side. I know baby can move and doesn't always stay in the same place, but that seems to be my go-to place.

I'm glad the spotting has subsided for now and hope that is it gone for good. I still take it one day at a time but I'd be gutted to see it come back.

And yes, just three more weeks (or two and a half really!) till you get to 12 weeks I always feel like my pregnancy is going really slowly and then I see others around me zooming on with theirs. I can't believe that's you almost 10 weeks already, it really has gone in fast.

And Akblaze, I'm sure you were only about 9 or 10 weeks when we met, now look at you! I'm sorry you're still feeling so sick but I'm glad it's starting to get a bit better. Did they give you anything for it or has it just been running its course? Fingers crossed you get better really, really soon.

And boo for no ultrasound. What are they playing at? Did you not tell them you have some ladies on here who are desperate to see some pics?!?!? That's it, torches and pitchforks at the ready for your next OB visit. If she's not dishing out these ultrasounds freely then we're going to have to make her! It's great that she let you listen to baby's heartbeat. How fast was it? And tell me more about this tub labour your talking about. Do you mean in a birthing pool or at home in your bathtub? And when's your next appointment? (so I can make sure the teleportation machine has been built in time!)

I think it's great that she said you're really popping now. I want an updated bump pic (oh, and try and throw in a couple of tattoo pics )!!! And how great that a stranger noticed you are preggo I would NEVER say that to someone just in case I was wrong!!! However, you have got me panicking a little. I'm not planning on telling my work until I'm much further on, perhaps 20 or so weeks. And I was hoping I would still be pretty small come then. But it sounds like I might need to invest in some baggy work clothes!!!

As for the tickling plan your DH seems to be hatching, well, it sounds to me like he has a bit of a nasty streak! It's definitely time to start doing those kegels. Imagine if he tickled you in the aisle of a supermarket or something!!! I'd be keeping him at arms length!

I love that you still have your belly ring in. Although, I'm pretty shocked about the innie becoming an outie. I love my innie!!! When did that happen to you? I think that will make me freak out a little bit!!! Hey, perhaps you'll just get so big that you're ring will come flying out and hit your DH in the eye, that could be his punishment for being so mean!!!

And I noticed you changed your ticker to a sweet potato. I think you're right, best to go with the dates that the OB has for now and change if necessary. Otherwise, you'll be totally confused.

AFM: Woohoo, I'm a peach!!!

Sending both of you lovely ladies and your even more lovely LOs lots and lots of and

 

[akblaze]

Happenstance I still find it hard to believe that I'm actually 18 weeks along! This pregnancy has gone by sooo slow!!! And you're just about to head into second tri here REALLY soon!!!!
as for the bug I have going on, I'm just letting it run it's course. Still incredibly congested and it's beginning to drive me insane! I am proud that I haven't had to take any medicine except the nasal spray! Honestly, I probably would've felt guilty of taking some because of my little bundle of joy!

I think the best way to distinguish the placenta from the baby (if you don't have an LCD screen to show you the HR is the swooshing sound the placenta makes. My OB showed me yesterday that the placenta is on my right and the baby hangs out on my left. I always find her low down above the pubic bone on the left side, and that's where I'll feel a little movement every now and then. It's still very rare and very light but the OB said it very well could be her!!!

I am so bummed about not seeing her yesterday! But I just tell myself that in two weeks we'll get to see her and she'll be even bigger than she was yesterday so It'll be worth the wait! My appt is on April 2nd at 11am! The OB will check her HB every visit and as long as it's nice and strong we won't need to do an ultrasound. It is nice getting to listen to the baby more than just at home.. it's such a beautiful sound!
The birthing tub here is at the hospital that I'll give birth at. I'm not sure how they are set up, I've only been to this hospital like twice and never in L&D. When hubby gets home we'll tour the maternity ward.. I really want to do a full water birth and give birth in the tub but the hospital doesn't let you do that. they only let you labor in the tub and then I'll have to move to the bed to start pushing... unless the baby falls out in the tub my OB said! I should start having a talk with peanut that when she starts coming out that she needs to do it fast so we can have a full water birth!!!

I will attach a couple bumpy pics that i took yesterday I really didn't expect my belly button to pop out so soon!!!! Of course, one of my friends said I'm big for 18 weeks (of course it's a guy and he's pretty clueless about pregnancy) I just told him that I'm small where is this baby supposed to go!? You definitely might have to get some baggy work clothes to hide it if you are gonna wait until your 20 weeks or so! Have you gotten to meet up with any of your friends lately? I know you were afraid to since they'd figure it out if you turned away a drink!

Oh if he tries tickling me in the store and I pee myself! I would probably burst out in tears!!!!! it's really funny now and probably would be when I got over it, but oh how embarrassing!!!! He would definitely be in trouble for that one... I'm definitely going to remember my kegels now!

Yeah, I figured I'd go ahead and change the tickers. It's easier this way, no more wondering. I know she'll come when she's ready but at least the countdown matches the OB!

YOU'RE A PEEAACCHHHH!!!!!!!

YAAYYY!!!! I'm so happyyy!!
I think you should try the doppler again today to celebrate your new week and new fruit!!!
How have you been feeling? Are the headaches the same? Hopefully they go away!
Oh and we need pictures missy!!!

Sending you and your PEACH toonnssss of hugs!!!!!

(oh, the pictures! The bump shot is 17.6 weeks and the other two are 18.3! these are the ones that show some tattoos the best too!)

 

[Happenstance]

OMG you are soooo pretty! And that beautiful bump just makes you look even more gorgeous! Wow, you weren't kidding about showing were you! But you're right, you are petite so where on earth is baby supposed to go! My odds are back on Mango. In fact, I reckon you're heading towards banana!!!

I LOVE your tattoo. It's so intricate, it must have taken absolutely ages. I take it you had to go back a few times for that? It seems to curve around your bump perfectly, as if you meant for it to happen that way. Very, very special - I love it!

I'm sorry you're still so congested. Is it worth trying another nasal spray to see if that helps. And I think you've done great to avoid pills so far, but remember, if you need them then they would only prescribe what is safe for you and baby. Fingers crossed this is you on the mend and you won't be needing any more pills. And the good news is that you can snore to your heart's content without having to worry about waking DH! Probably the only positive of him being away right now!

So, you're starting to feel a little movement now and then? That's great! I'm not surprised right enough, looks like baby is growing at super duper speed! I LOVE your bump! Although, I'm hoping I'm not just as big by then or else I'll have to confess to work sooner than I want to!!!

You've got completely the right attitude about seeing bubs in two weeks. She will be loads bigger and you'll get to see even more of her which is great. Are you planning on getting a 3D/4D scan at any point (I'm not sure what the difference is? Is 3D and 4D the same thing?). I think it's great that you'll get to labour in the tub like you want, although I'm not sure why they won't let you give birth there? I know they don't mind us delivering in the birthing pools over here (mind you, you're not guaranteed to get one, just if it's free). Tell your little bundle of joy that her auntie is ordering her to play nicely during labour and to come while she's in the tub. We've got a great relationship so I'm sure she'll listen to me! It will be great for you and DH to tour the maternity ward. Not sure if we get to do that here? I suppose that's yet another question for my midwife when I see her in a billion years' time!!!

I told my DH that your belly button had popped and that mine probably (definitely?) will too. He was a little freaked out by that too!!! Looks like we're both a couple of wimps!

I'm hoping to meet with a couple of friends next week and then I'm probably going to have to mention something. My plan is to tell them that I have a gift for them and then present them with a bag. Inside will be the fruit I am for that week (I think next week is lemon!) and when they look at me with faces of confusion I'll tell them that's the size of the baby that's growing inside me. I think they'll be shocked! Plus, I'm meant to be going to Barcelona for my friend's 30th and I think it will be a great excuse for why I can't go!!!

I haven't had any more headaches thankfully (well, one or two but nothing horrible). How have yours been lately? Has staying hydrated helped?

And I know, I need to get pics. My computer's still playing up so I need to sort that. It's something to do with my USB connection. Oh, and my monitor's been playing up too!!! I'll get onto it.

I just can't believe how much you've grown in your bump pics. They're incredible. And your DH is one lucky guy to have two gorgeous ladies in his life. I hope he appreciates that!

Well, I'm off to make dinner, so I'll send you and your lovely little bundle of joy giant cuddles and . Take care of both of you

 

[akblaze]

Happenstance, awwww Thank youuu! I really didn't expect to show like this so soon but I love it!

I've tried a regular saline nasal spray but it doesn't help.. i started using the breathe right strips again (I couldn't when I was really sick because it just added too much pressure to my nose that it hurt) I bought a small pack that has vicks stuff on it when u scratch it and it really helped me sleep! I just had HORRIBLE hip pain all night! If DH was home I'm sure we'd be having a snoring competition at night! He has some impressive snores too!! I'd say the best benefit of him being gone is I don't have to shave my legs nearly as often!!

I felt sooo much movement last night in bed!!! I have felt this sensation before in the last couple weeks but wasn't sure if it was her or not but I don't see how it could be anything else as I've NEVER felt something like that before becoming pregnant. My best way to describe it is that it felt like there was a little fishy in my belly that was trying to escape! It kept me up for a while because I just didn't want to miss it!
It's crazy how bumps can be so different! I've seen ladies on here that are still sooo small this far along and others that are much bigger than me! I love seeing all the different bumps though I honestly can't wait for you to get a bumpy!!!! You better be posting pictures when you do!!!!

We're hoping to do the 3d/4d scan when DH gets home. I really want to wait for him because that will be the very first scan he gets to see in person, and how cool is that!!! When explaining the 3d/4d to my hubby I actually had to google what the 4d was!!! I guess it's just like 3d but it's real time so you see all the movement like in a normal ultrasound but it's 3d. I'm hoping he gets home in time to do it because I hear doing it after a certain time you won't get good pictures. Just keeping my fingers crossed that he comes home sooner than we think he will!!!
Are you guys planning on doing a 3d/4d?
The hospital up here on base lets you give birth in the tub, so does the birthing center but my OB works out of the civilian hospital so that's where we'll give birth. I really don't know why they won't let us give birth in the tub. I'm a bit bummed by it but I'm at least hoping I can labor in there! I see that as the best way to avoid pain meds!

LOL! It's so cute that you both are freaked out about your belly button popping! I think it's fun to play with because it's so weird!!!

Aww! That's such a great idea with your friends!!!! They will be sooo confused but once they get it, oh how cute!!! That's going to be so much fun! You will have to let me know how they react!!!

That's great that you haven't gotten many headaches! Hopefully it stays that way! As for me, I'm currently in the midst of a two day headache! I'm doing my best to drink water but I feel SO nauseous that even water makes me want to get sick! I'm hoping it eases within the next couple hours because my dad is flying up and they might have an hour layover before they head back so I'll get to go to dinner with him and the other pilots. I don't want to go and feel like crap! Grrr!!!

I hope you get your computer fixed soon!!! I'm so excited to see pictures!!!

I hope you both are doing wonderful and feeling great!!!!
Sending you both loads and loads of and hugs!

 

[Charliejo83]

Good morning ladies (or evening for you Akblaze)

Well I have come down with the lurgi now too - nothing as bad as you Akblaze but annoying all the same. On top of that my spotting showed its ugly head again yesterday and I can't find the baby on the doppler which is not helping (pretty sure it was the placenta I heard the other day now).

Added to that my boobs seem to be getting softer and less sore I am starting to freak out a little - but trying to reign myself back in today! May call my midwife later but trying to avoid sounding like a total neurotic m2b!

I've had my scan date through for 3rd April (the day after yours Akblaze) so have less than 2 weeks to wait! Am a little concerned they are doing it before 12 weeks though - as not sure when I will tell people now!

Is your spotting still totally at bay Happenstance? I bet you are so excited about telling your friends - I've already told a handful of my closest friends as have needed them to stress out too these past few weeks!

Your bump is AMAZING Akblaze - too cute! I just know that I won't be one of these people who have a neat bump - bet mine will just spread everywhere and look like fat!!

Hope your'e both keeping well!

 

[akblaze]

Charliejo I'm so sorry your spotting has returned and you are having trouble finding baby. He/she could be hiding behind the placenta! However, if you are worried please don't hesitate to call your midwife! It really is what they're there for! I'm sure they are all sooo used to us crazy pregnant women!!!

as for the doppler, I'm not sure if you saw the video I posted a few pages back. A lady on here made that video when I was in first tri because so many of us have trouble with telling the heartbeat apart from the placenta. It might help though! It definitely helped me be sure what I was hearing.

also, don't worry about telling everyone until you're ready! I told people closest to me before I was 12 weeks. However, I told very few people the problems I was having with the spotting because I was just too scared to even talk about it. I really don't think there's any "right" date to announce it.. just whenever you're ready

I hope you are doing well today and trying to stay a little bit sane at least!!! You and your little one are in my thoughts! And if you are worried then do call! I promise you they think we're all crazy! It's better to get seen and get some reassurance than to continue worrying!
Sending you and your little one bunches and bunches of hugs!!!!

 

[Happenstance]

How are you feeling Akblaze? Still congested? I love the fact that the best thing about your DH being away is not having to shave your legs as often!!! Honestly, if men had to do the things we do then they'd all run away and live in a big man cave somewhere!

I'm soooooooooooo excited that you felt all that movement!!! And how weird that it feels like a little fish trying to get out! No wonder you stayed up to feel it. That is quite simply AMAZING. That'll save you having to search for her on the doppler!!! Have you felt her again since?

Ah, I remember you saying you were going for a 4d scan with your dh Sorry, my memory's terrible (I'm blaming it on pregnancy 'fog'!). I think it's really special that you're saving it for when you're together. And thanks for explaining the whole 4d thing It makes sense when you put it like that.

I'm not sure if we're going to do 4d or not. Part of me wants to but then, it is pretty expensive so not sure if I'll just put that to baby stuff. I think the best time to get pics is after 24 weeks, is that right? If so, I have a while to think about it!

I watched One Born Every Minute last night and there was a woman labouring in one of their birthing baths (not the pool, just a birthing bath). It seemed to help her quite a lot. Mind you, she's the bravest lady I've seen on that programme - I hope I'm like that (although, I know I'll be the biggest baby in the room! )

I'm sorry you're having a bad time with the headaches still. Has it been stopping you going to classes? I really hope it didn't stop you going to see your dad and all the other pilots. How exciting! I bet he wishes he was stopping over for longer, he'll be dying to see you. It's great that you get to see him right enough, even if it is just for a short while. Let me know how he reacts when he sees your bump. I bet he'll be really shocked and excited!!!

Hope you are feeling much better but I'm going to send you big hugs that are tied together with chocolates and flowers - just to cheer you up. Here you go

CharlieJo, oh no! I'm so sorry you're not feeling well. I hope Akblaze hasn't passed anything on to you! And as for the dreaded spotting returning, I'm so sorry. My spotting would often come and disappear but this time is the longest it's stayed away for so far. Please try not to worry, most women who have spotting have it on more than a few occasions - not that that makes us feel any better. I'm keeping everything crossed that it goes away soon and STAYS away.

Don't worry too much about not finding baby on the doppler, I still can't find the baby. I'm taking my doppler to my mum's at the weekend and she can have a go, she seemed to have better luck than I do. It might be worthwhile getting one of the dopplers with an LCD screen and then you'll know when you've definitely found baby? You could perhaps sell the one you've bought to help pay for it? I've seen loads of them for sale on this site. Just an idea? Mind you, if you wait a few weeks then I'm sure baby will become easier to find and you'll be absolutely fine with the doppler you've got.

I agree with Akblaze, if you are at all concerned then call your midwife. They will be so used to taking calls like yours and be able to help you. As for telling people? Well, I've still only told our parents. I suppose everyone has their own time when they know it's okay to tell people. Although, I'm starting to put on a bit more weight in my belly so I think I may need to tell people soon. Although, for now, I can still pass it off as eating one too many pizzas!!!

Sending you massive and hoping your spotting (and your lurgi!) gets better soon

 

[Charliejo83]

Thanks both - you guys are so supportive - I think I would have gone mad without you!!

I found the baby on the Doppler last night - it really is sooooooo obvious when you do pick it up! As you can imagine it has really out my mind at rest, especially as the spitting had returned I. Full force these past couple of days!!

Thanks again and take care!!

 

[LogiesMommy]

I had spotting, and it was a subchorionic hematoma. I started using natural progesterone cream, and it stopped. Since then, my subchorionic hematoma has resolved, and I have no more issues. I got the prog. cream at a health food store. My OB/GYN told me that it wouldn't hurt to use it (she never took my prog. levels, only hcg) and to keep using is twice a day.

I'm still nursing DS (who is 19 mos), and I read somewhere that it can give you low prog. (which may have caused my SCH and thus the bleeding.)

Anyway, you can go get an US and that should identify what the cause is. Good luck!!