Dancing or playing or something

It feels wonderful all the time.
The movement of my little one inside me.
Truly amazing.
I do not want to give this up.
It makes me giggle and feel so happy.

Easing Labor Pain

Exercise! -- By Sara Hambidge, Physical Therapist

Why is it that some women experience a labor that lasts two hours when others are in labor for 14 hours? How do some women go natural despite the potential intense pain involved? Why do some women tear when others do not?

Is there a way to ease the delivery process? Research says YES - through exercise, especially routines involving the pelvic floor.

In a recent study cited in the British Medical Journal, researchers noted that of the 300 women studied, those who did intensive pelvic floor/kegel exercises in the last few months of pregnancy had an easier time giving birth. Most affected was the second stage of labor-- the pushing stage-- where the study found that women who had done the exercises were less likely to spend prolonged time. Having a shorter pushing stage is extremely beneficial, since a longer pushing phase can lead to a tear or episiotomy, as well as increased chances for bleeding or requiring Cesarean delivery.
Kegel ExercisesIt’s been known for a long time that kegel exercises also decrease urinary incontinence, a problem in late pregnancy and postpartum.

And there is no excuse to not do them, since they can be done anywhere without anyone knowing you are doing them! You can do kegel exercises in all positions: sitting standing, lying down. Just tighten the muscles of the pelvic floor (the ones that start and stop the urine flow). Do sets of ten, holding for 5 seconds, 10 times per day.

 

Other ExercisesExercise in general is a good way to prepare for labor, since it will strengthen the body, increase circulation and flexibility, and improve endurance – all needed during labor. A few other exercises that can assist in the labor process:

• Squats help strengthen the legs and pelvic floor, opening up the pelvis. Many natural birth advocates believe this is the optimal position for giving birth, since it opens the birth canal and allows gravity to assist with delivery.
• Tailor sitting and stretching involves sitting on the floor like the stereotypical tailor, with legs crossed. It is one of the most beneficial positions to sit in during pregnancy for many reasons: circulation to the pelvic muscles is increased, and the weight of the baby is supported on the pelvic bones, relieving the pelvic muscles of strain. Stretches the groin and hips, which helps in the second stage of labor (the pushing stage), and alleviates backaches, especially when done with your back against a wall.
• Sit and stretch with legs outstretched until you feel a stretch in the groin and hamstrings, then hold for a minute. With each breath, relax and release further into the stretch.
• Pelvic tilts will assist in strengthening the abdominals and stretching the area of the back that’s usually sore in later pregnancy. The “all fours” position is also a good position during the first stage of labor to ease pain.

No one can predict what your labor will be like, but if your body is physically prepared for it, the anxiety of a long and painful labor can be lessened. Keep the exercises above in mind and hopefully you’ll have an easier labor—one that will allow you to enjoy the ride!

new OB/GYN

So I met with my new doctor and he is wonderful. I wish I would have went to him from the first day I knew I was pregnant. I am looking forward to all his advice and support.
The 2nd ultrasound was great. My husband was fascinated. We went to a specialist because of my age group and after the viewing he said we had very little to worry about and that the results looked like I was in my 20's rather than my 30's. Great news. So we waived the emi test.
I have my glucose test scheduled for Nov 29 along with my first flu shot ever.
I was extremely sick last Sunday and so I was thinking it would be best to get the shot since the doctor recommends it.

Energy Boosts at Work

Stay Alert All Day, Every Day -- By Mike Kramer and Liz Noelcke, Staff Writers

You see the computer screen, but you really don’t. It’s more like a two-foot blur. Your eyes are between open and closed, although you’re not sure where. At the moment, you have no idea what you’re working on. And it’s only 3 p.m. Sound familiar? Is this a typical afternoon or morning? Are you looking for an energy boost at your desk? Office life can suck the energy right out of you, if you let it. But, there are numerous ways to take advantage of your workspace and stay energetic all day.

Did you realize bad posture alone can give your brain up to 30% less blood and oxygen? Along with good posture, the most effective way to fight energy lulls is with heavy doses of good stretching and good breathing. Shoot for five minutes of mental or physical activity per hour, every hour at the computer.

Here are more, different ideas for rejuvenating your mind and body. Each will only take a few minutes.

·                                 Find a few sturdy, thick phonebooks and do some step aerobics.

·                                 Massage your head and shoulders. Find trigger points of tension in the shoulders and base of the skull. Hold pressure for 6-10 seconds. Don’t forget your face and jaw.

·                                 Take two steps back from your desk and lean forward until you’re at an angled push-up position against the edge of your desk. Do a couple quick sets.

·                                 Lift 1-3 packs of printer paper in each hand. Curl them like weights or lift them over your head.

·                                 Close your door and shadow box. Imagining a stressor while you’re punching will increase your energy, guaranteed.

·                                 Jumping jacks. Simple, quick and pumps you up.

·                                 Squeeze a stress ball. Relieves stress while strengthening forearms and wrists for typing.

·                                 Try word puzzles. Keep a jigsaw puzzle in your office.

·                                 Switch hands with whatever you’re doing.

·                                 Stand perfectly still for two minutes. Regroup.

·                                 When you first arrive at work, take as long as possible before sitting down.

·                                 Forget the boardroom. Hold walking meetings.

·                                 Hand-deliver mail, memos and faxes.

·                                 Chat face-to-face instead of by e-mail or phone.

·                                 Use a bathroom on the other side of the building or another floor.

·                                 Have a lot of phone time? Buy a cordless and move around while talking.

Another approach, one that adults rarely consider but could greatly benefit from, is a nap.

A 2001 survey by the National Sleep Foundation found that 63% of Americans don’t get enough sleep. Naps will combat this. They cannot replace a good night’s sleep, but they can help you perform at your peek throughout the day. Plus you can save that daily $4 on Starbucks, because the energy you gain from a nap is better and longer lasting than caffeine. The ideal nap length is 20 minutes, easily squeezable into the workday.

No matter the method, try to find tricks that work for you. Remember, if you don’t want to feel drained at the end of the work day, you don’t have to.

taken from BabyFit.com

Breathing during labour

Breathing often relects our state of relaxation or excitation. When at rest, breathing is usually slow and rhythmic. When tense, breathing may be erratic or we may hold our breath. Controlling brething may help you become aware of your state so you can stay relaxed. Breaqthing techniquest are helpful to many women in labor.
Allow your body to relax as completely as possible and work with the contractions while using the breathing and relaxation techniques. There is no right or wrong way to breathe. The techniques are only guidelines and should be adapted to your individual preference and comfort.
Begin focusing on your breathing when you feel you need help relaxing or can no longer walk or talk through a contraction. For many women, this may be hours into labor. Your breathing should be at a comfortable rate and not cause you to feel short of breath or light-headed.

Your breathing style should be your own. The breath may be taken in and out of your nose or mouth, or in your nose and out your mouth. The key is to have the breathing feel natural, relaxed and even.

Each of the breathing techniques has two common features: a cleansing breath and a focal point.

Cleansing Breath
The use of a cleansing breath before and after every contraction is important. It is an exaggerated, deep breath, usually done by breathing in through the nose and out through the mouth. The purposes of this breath are to:

       Allow for increased oxygen to the baby

       Internally signal you that a contraction is beginning and to remind you to begin concentrating on breathing, focusing, and relaxing.

       Externally signal your partner and anyone else assisting with the labor that a contraction is beginning. They can then offer assistance, such as a back massage or verbal encouragement.

       Allow for blowing off residual tension after a contraction is over.

       Give your baby a boost of oxygen at the end of the contraction.

Focal Point
The use of a focal point will help enhance your relaxation and increase your concentration during a contraction. An internal focal point, such as a peaceful scene or serene setting may work well for some; others may find that they need to concentrate on an object in the room or the partner's eyes. This focus may change during labor, as contractions gain strength. Practice using different focal points that enhance your contraction and help eliminate distractions. (Note: a clock is not used as a focal point.

       Allow the breathing to continue on its own quietly, easily, and evenly. Concentrate on letting yourself completely relax and let your body go limp with each exhale. Picture a rag doll.

       Your body may begin to feel warm and heavy.

       When ready to rouse yourself, breathe in deeply, stretching arms and legs, as you exhale.

Slow Paced Breathing

       Take a "cleansing" breath at the beginning of a contraction

       Continue to breathe evenly in and out with slow,easy abdominal breathing.

       Pace is approximately half your normal respiratory rate.

       You may use Attention Focusing strategies such as:

       Inhalation/exhalation through nose

       Inhalation/exhalation through mouth

       Counting rhythms, imagery, affirming phrases, etc.</LI.

       Movement, stroking, massage, tapping, etc.

       A visual focal point

       As contraction ends, take a "cleansing" breath, breathing out slowly, and relaxing completely.

Modified Paced Breathing

       Easy, rhythmical breathing with a frequency of approximately twice your normal respiratory rate.

       Relaxed movement in chest and abdomen with more use of intercostal (chest) muscle.

       Use as needed for more challenging contractions

       Use same steady rate throughout contraction or use attention focusing strategies as needed.

Patterned Paced Breathing

       Even, rhymthmical breathing approximately twice your normal respiratory rate.

       Breathing pattern does not change rate or volume of air exchange.

       Pattern 3 breath/1 "blow"

       Use Attention Focusing strategies as needed.

Variations of Patterned Paced Breathing

       Pattern can be from 1 breath/1 blow to 6 breaths/1 blow.

       Can use Patterned Paced breathing in 1 breath/1 blow (He/Who)

       Try pattern of 5/1, 4/1, 3/1, 2/1, 1/1, 2/1, 3/1, 4/1, 5/1

       Combine paced breathing techniques in one contraction.

       Use attention focusing strategies as needed.

taken from Lamaze.com

harder to get up

Laying in bed, it gets harder to get up - gotta move slow and roll.
Plus, our couches are so deep and comfortable I find that I need to sit closer to the edge if I need to get up and down or to reach something.
The belly is growing more and more every day and I love it !

bumps in the night

it felt like a soccor game going on last night after I got up to go to the bathroom. I often wonder what makes the baby move, and what are they doing / thinking? How do they feel? What's their story while they are wild and crazy inside?
I love the feeling and never want it to go away.
It makes me giddy and happy and just plan euphoric.
Cherish these feelings forever.

50 Tips for Surviving Baby's First Few Weeks

Moms Dish on Below-the-Belt Pain Relief, Getting Baby to Sleep, and Staying Sane -- By BabyFit

You've read the books, talked to your friends and planned as much as possible, but the first few weeks after your little one arrives can be a whirlwind. We asked BabyFit moms to share their best tips for getting through their babies' early days and collected their advice into one helpful article.
Sleep and Bedtime

·                                 Take advantage of all of the sleeping that newborns do in those first couple weeks. Enjoy, and take a LOT of pictures!

·                                 I second the "sleep when the baby sleeps" comment. I didn't do it enough with my first, and now that I have an older child at home, I'm longing for those midday naps!

·                                 Rest when the baby sleeps. Don't worry about trying to "sleep when the baby sleeps." Instead, just lie down, take deep breaths and clear your thoughts. Don't think about all the chores you could be doing. Don't think that it's your only chance to sleep. Just clear your mind and you will be refreshed when the baby wakes up.

·                                 When you are woken up at night for what seem like the 100th time and just need sleep, try to breathe out and chant to yourself, "It won't last forever." Snuggle your baby and try to enjoy it even though you are cross-eyed because of lack of sleep.

·                                 After baby's umbilical cord stump falls off, start a night routine ASAP. Bath, lotion, diaper, sing or read and rock, and put the baby down. If you do this from early on, it WILL click. Stick with it!

Nursing

·                                 When you milk comes in, feed, feed, feed! I was so engorged and just thought that I was supposed to be that way, but ended up running a fever and all.

·                                 Learn how to nurse lying down. It is so much better and more restful for nighttime feedings.

·                                 STICK WITH IT! I learned the third time around, with the help of the Breastfeeding Support MommyTeams, that the first two weeks are the most challenging. After that, you can get through anything!

·                                 Clean and assemble your breast pump before your baby is born. Many times, milk comes in fast and furious and a breast pump can easily relieve engorged breasts so a newborn can better latch on.

·                                 Don't just buy nursing bras, invest in some nursing tops, too.

·                                 Stick with breastfeeding and set small goals. I read somewhere if you can make it 4 weeks, you will be set. It does get easier and less painful. Just tell yourself, "I can do this one more day and then I'll quit/go to formula if I need to." This got me through the early days.

·                                 If you are returning to work at some point, start pumping after every feeding session to build up a good supply for your return to work. This saved my nursing relationship (among other things) with my DD.

Exercise and being active

·                                 Get out to the mall or somewhere for a walk. It will make things less stressful.

·                                 Get out for an hour or two if you can have someone watch the baby. Go for a manicure or pedicure--anything to pamper yourself. I went to have my hair colored eight days postpartum, and it instantly lifted my spirits.

·                                 Don't rush back to the gym. I went back at 5 weeks to the day after delivery, and bled for about 10 weeks. I was so annoyed--I should have waited and consulted with my doctor.

Relief below the belt

·                                 Don't forget the sitz baths! They provide so much relief. Also, use the little peri bottle or any squirt bottle for washing instead of wiping.

·                                 Have plenty of heavy/medium flow pads for when you come home from the hospital. After both my deliveries I bled on and off, sometimes heavy for 4-6 weeks.

·                                 I froze witch hazel pads in the freezer, which helped with soreness and hemorrhoids.

·                                 If you have hemorrhoids, call your doctor and ask for a prescription! I was in so much pain I couldn't walk, and after three doses of a hydrocortisone suppository, they are almost gone.

·                                 Ice packs for your undies are great if they don't give them to you at the hospital. You can make your own by putting a tablespoon of rubbing alcohol in an un-lubricated condom and filling the rest with water, then freezing. It makes a slushy pack that is long enough and narrow enough to stick in your undies and cover the whole area front to back. (And I should add this is for EXTERNAL use!)

·                                 If you have hemorrhoids and/or constipation, drink lots of water and eat fiber and salads to make things much easier. Tucks medicated pads are great, and I also stocked up on big bottles of witch hazel and cotton balls.

·                                 Try to bring home as many of those mesh panties from the hospital as possible. I got enough for a week--they are disposable, comfortable and hold pads really well. If they get stained, who cares!

·                                 Take your pain pills if you had a C-section. I tried to be tough, and there is just no point to being in pain.

Emotions

·                                 Enlist friends and family to ask you how you are feeling post-partum and if you feel like you need treatment. If you get post-partum depression like I did with my first, you may not be rational enough to ask for help. And it's totally not worth suffering through it when there's an alternative.

·                                 It's normal to cry for no reason. Try telling yourself this as you're crying. I found that helpful for calming me down.

·                                 Expose yourself to sunlight to lift your mood. Even if you just sit near a window for a few minutes each day, it can have a positive effect on your emotions.

·                                 Let your partner know about the warning signs of post-partum depression and try to figure out beforehand what may trigger it. I found for me, it was my husband's sarcasm, and I was able to get him to tone it down.

·                                 Journal or blog about "a day in the life of your baby." I did this when my son was 10 days old. I wrote what he did, how long he slept that day. It's fun to look back, because already, even though he's only two months, I can't remember what he was like at two weeks.

·                                 People are going to give you LOTS of advice--even if you are not a first-time mother. My experiences taught me to politely listen and respond with a generic, "Thank you, that's something to consider." You don't want to be drawn into an emotional debate about something like breastfeeding or crying it out this early in your new baby's life.

·                                 Make sure that you have caller ID. That way you can pick and choose whom you want to talk to and whom you can get back to later if you need time to yourself.

·                                 As hard as it is, try to get a shower every day and put a little makeup on. Get dressed! I found the days I didn't do that, were the days I felt most depressed. I would just put baby in his chair, and put him in the bathroom with me while I did my thing.

·                                 Just put those sweats in your dresser, and put on some nice shorts, capris, or khakis. Put a little makeup on, like mascara and gloss before you head out. You will feel so much better. Or take your shower at night if you can. Have DH take care of your LO during this time.

·                                 Don't be afraid to ask for help. Sometimes even experienced moms need help.

·                                 Put a "do not disturb" sign on your front door if you don't want unannounced visitors.

·                                 Be honest with your feelings. I was so excited to show off my son, but I got so overwhelmed one day because I never got a break as a first-time mommy trying to learn to breastfeed. People were always at the house. Get your partner on the same wavelength and kick everyone out if need be.

·                                 Be prepared for an emotional roller coaster--more so after you give birth than when you are pregnant. I had a breakdown one day and I had no clue why. It all turned out OK! It's very normal. Just cry it out and lean on your significant other or a supportive friend.

·                                 Enjoy your baby and remember he or she is learning everything from you. So do things you normally take for granted and enjoy your baby's reaction. Play your favorite music with baby around--you'll hear it differently.

Accepting help and helpful tips

·                                 When folks ask, "What can I do to help?" have a list ready: Bring a meal, help with chores (dishes, laundry, mow the lawn, etc.) or babysit (so you can take a shower). Don't be shy about taking people up on their offers to help.

·                                 Don't be afraid of consulting your OB or pediatrician for anything that worries you. That's their job!

·                                 Have quick meals ready to go when you get back from the hospital or birthing center. This could be something you cooked and froze before delivery (make them in single servings), or just fixings (think: stuff I can eat in 15 minutes or less) for a PB&J and soup.

·                                 I know family likes to see the baby right away, but since mine stays for a week at a time, I always make them wait three to six weeks before coming. That way we can get use to each other and enjoy our new addition. It also helps with getting breastfeeding going and getting rest. Babies are cuter after a few weeks anyways.

·                                 Stay in your nightgown/robe and make visitors come see you in bed. When people have to come to you, and you are not dressed, they will be reminded that you are in recovery and will be more likely to ask what they can do to help rather than forget and expect to be waited on.

·                                 Use paper plates and cups! It's not very environmentally friendly, but now is not the time to feel stressed about the dishes piling up. Even if your partner and family are helping out, there are better things they could be doing for you!

·                                 If you have stairs in your home, set up two changing stations (one on each level) and a second place for baby to sleep safely. I just used an extra changing pad and kept diapers and wipes on both levels. Made life a lot easier early on.

·                                 If you never carry cash (I use my debit card for everything) take a little cash out of the bank to have on hand at home. It helps when you have to send a friend to the store or pay a delivery guy.

·                                 Limit visitors in the beginning except for family and friends who are there to help. And accept their help, even if it means they hold the baby for 10 minutes while you shower.

·                                 Find some way to have adult conversation every day, even if you're just posting on BabyFit at 3 a.m. when you're awake and feel like you're alone in the world--you're not.

·                                 If you know you won't have support, dig into your savings and hire a post-partum doula. I really wish I had done this. My mom came, but as expected, she wasn't exactly post-partum support. She left after 6 days. I don't have any friends or family close by, so I could have benefited from a post-partum doula coming over for even two hours a day.

·                                 Make a list of essential chores that absolutely need to be done daily and weekly. Have that list handy for whomever can help you out. Don't ask people to do nit picky things, but it's OK to ask for help vacuuming.

·                                 Don't think you are being a burden to other people because you aren't. I thought I could do it all by myself and didn't want to bother anyone else but very quickly found out that I couldn't do it all. I did need my husband's and my mother's help for different things. That was the greatest lesson I learned.

taken from BwbyFit.com

belly growth

the belly feels like it is stretching so much
i put baby oil on it every night
i feel so bloated sometimes, but it is wonderful
i will watch my belly for hours when the baby is moving
so cool
i gained 2 pounds on the weekend so i know that baby is getting bigger