Monday, December 24, 2018
Tuesday, December 4, 2018
2 month checkup plus vaccines
Matheson got his 2 month vaccines yesterday. He cried only during the actual injection and stopped once I held and snuggled him.
His hydrocele cleared up and the Dr Penn had to pull back the skin away from the tip of his penis slightly. Poor guy had a rough day! He was fussy the entire evening, so mom and dad took turns holding and loving on him until it was time for bed.
12.1lbs, 22" long. He is 50th and 25th percentile for weight and height. I can't believe Matty gained 4lbs in one month!
We successfully kept him out of public places for 2 months and I am now excited to get out of the house and go places with him!
Nick is leaving for 3 days in NYC. This will be the first time I am alone overnight with Matheson. I hope it goes well.
His hydrocele cleared up and the Dr Penn had to pull back the skin away from the tip of his penis slightly. Poor guy had a rough day! He was fussy the entire evening, so mom and dad took turns holding and loving on him until it was time for bed.
12.1lbs, 22" long. He is 50th and 25th percentile for weight and height. I can't believe Matty gained 4lbs in one month!
We successfully kept him out of public places for 2 months and I am now excited to get out of the house and go places with him!
Nick is leaving for 3 days in NYC. This will be the first time I am alone overnight with Matheson. I hope it goes well.
Thursday, November 29, 2018
2 months old
This week had some major changes.
First, I removed the bassinet from the Bugaboo stroller and put on the seat. Matty seemed to like looking around and as much as he still likes being strolled in the bassinet, I think he likes the seat better, especially since I can recline it.
Second, another growth spurt happening now as he went from 4oz to 6oz every 3 hours. This meant needing the bigger 9oz bottles and no longer using the little bottles.
Third, we are now down to only one wakeup per night. Matheson is still going to bed every night at 8pm. He wakes for his nightly feeding/ diaper change at 3am and wakes for the day around 6:30am-7am. This is huge as Nick is no longer helping out at night and is getting a full night's rest since he is the only one of us working outside the home.
Fourth, Matty has grown attached to a little raccoon stuffed animal and is using it as a lovey. It is the sweetest thing to see him snuggling his raccoon!
First, I removed the bassinet from the Bugaboo stroller and put on the seat. Matty seemed to like looking around and as much as he still likes being strolled in the bassinet, I think he likes the seat better, especially since I can recline it.
Second, another growth spurt happening now as he went from 4oz to 6oz every 3 hours. This meant needing the bigger 9oz bottles and no longer using the little bottles.
Third, we are now down to only one wakeup per night. Matheson is still going to bed every night at 8pm. He wakes for his nightly feeding/ diaper change at 3am and wakes for the day around 6:30am-7am. This is huge as Nick is no longer helping out at night and is getting a full night's rest since he is the only one of us working outside the home.
Fourth, Matty has grown attached to a little raccoon stuffed animal and is using it as a lovey. It is the sweetest thing to see him snuggling his raccoon!
Friday, November 23, 2018
Thanksgiving
Our first holiday with Matheson was wonderful.
We celebrated a Friendsgiving with our friends, Andrea and Luis. It was pretty perfect. We ordered food from Pappa's BBQ and I made a few side items. Matheson is such a good baby and he is a wonderful addition to our family.
We celebrated a Friendsgiving with our friends, Andrea and Luis. It was pretty perfect. We ordered food from Pappa's BBQ and I made a few side items. Matheson is such a good baby and he is a wonderful addition to our family.
Thursday, November 15, 2018
6 weeks
Monday, November 12, 2019 marked 6 weeks since Matheson came into our lives.
I had my 6 week follow-up at the doctor and was cleared for sex and exercise. My blood pressure is back to normal and I stopped meds at one month. I needed to do a 2 hour fasting to make sure my gestational diabetes didn't turn into full blown diabetes and my results came back normal! My thyroid and iron are also back to normal. Yay!!
Matheson is very much our child. At 6 weeks, he is sleeping six hours straight through the night in the SNOO.
His daily routine looks like this:
6-7am awake
Morning catnap
Long nap around lunchtime
Evening catnap
8pm bedtime
Up at 2:30am for 4oz bottle, diaper change and back to sleep (I take this feeding)
Up at 4-5:30am for bottle, diaper change and back to sleep (Nick takes this time)
Matty likes to be held all the time. Just the last few days, he wants to eat every 2 hours instead of every 3, which makes me think he is going through a growth spurt.
If he is fussy, a tight swaddle and a binky does the trick.
I had my 6 week follow-up at the doctor and was cleared for sex and exercise. My blood pressure is back to normal and I stopped meds at one month. I needed to do a 2 hour fasting to make sure my gestational diabetes didn't turn into full blown diabetes and my results came back normal! My thyroid and iron are also back to normal. Yay!!
Matheson is very much our child. At 6 weeks, he is sleeping six hours straight through the night in the SNOO.
His daily routine looks like this:
6-7am awake
Morning catnap
Long nap around lunchtime
Evening catnap
8pm bedtime
Up at 2:30am for 4oz bottle, diaper change and back to sleep (I take this feeding)
Up at 4-5:30am for bottle, diaper change and back to sleep (Nick takes this time)
Matty likes to be held all the time. Just the last few days, he wants to eat every 2 hours instead of every 3, which makes me think he is going through a growth spurt.
If he is fussy, a tight swaddle and a binky does the trick.
Sunday, November 4, 2018
Finding your groove in parenthood
Dancing in parenthood.
Yesterday was one of those days where Matty was fussy and clingy in the evening. I am writing this because I want to remember how well Nick and I work together under pressure. I was holding him and eventually laid him down in his SNOO. I didn't realize it was dinner time and Nick put pork chops in the oven. Then next thing I knew, we had switched off, I was finishing dinner prep and he was holding the baby. I watched as Nick figured out his swaddle technique and rocked the baby in the chair. Matheson was content and sleeping on his chest. The smile Nick had on his face was priceless. Usually, I am the one that can calm him when crying, but dad was finally able to, too.
Yesterday was one of those days where Matty was fussy and clingy in the evening. I am writing this because I want to remember how well Nick and I work together under pressure. I was holding him and eventually laid him down in his SNOO. I didn't realize it was dinner time and Nick put pork chops in the oven. Then next thing I knew, we had switched off, I was finishing dinner prep and he was holding the baby. I watched as Nick figured out his swaddle technique and rocked the baby in the chair. Matheson was content and sleeping on his chest. The smile Nick had on his face was priceless. Usually, I am the one that can calm him when crying, but dad was finally able to, too.
Thursday, November 1, 2018
Newborn Professional Photos
I just got these photos back from Bri Sullivan Photography. The pictures turned out AMAZING!
One Month Old
It is hard to believe that Matheson is one month old today! Time flies, truly.
And this time, I don't want to rush through all the stages. With Tristan, I was in a different place in my life and I kept wanting to rush and get to the next milestone. With Matheson, I am very content and am enjoying everything.
We are settling into a routine at home. Matheson wakes up around 6am and wants out of the SNOO and to be held. He's awake a good chunk of the day, as of literally the last few days. He has about 3 long naps through the day and asleep for the night by 8pm,although we don't put him in his bed until we are ready to go to bed. We try to give him a dream feed at 10am to help him sleep longer. He is usually up by 1am and 4am during the night. He gets a bath every 3 days. I have been doing those during the day, but need to start doing them before bed to get into a routine.
We have his one month visit with Dr Penn today. We noticed Matty was getting constipated and he was uncomfortable trying to have a bowl movement, plus he had allot of gas. We were using Gripe Water almost daily to help with the gas issue. We switched his formula from Similac Pro-Advance to Similac Total Comfort; however, the formula had a smell and his gas had the same. Then, we tried the Similac Pro Sensitive and it seems to be better for his tummy. The one thing both of my boys inherited from me was my sensitive tummy!
At his one month checkup, Matheson grew 2" and 2lbs!
Dr Penn noticed he has a hydrocele. This will be watched and hopefully it will resolve by his first birthday.
A hydrocele (HI-droe-seel) is a type of swelling in the scrotum that occurs when fluid collects in the thin sheath surrounding a testicle. Hydrocele is common in newborns and usually disappears without treatment by age 1.
And this time, I don't want to rush through all the stages. With Tristan, I was in a different place in my life and I kept wanting to rush and get to the next milestone. With Matheson, I am very content and am enjoying everything.
We are settling into a routine at home. Matheson wakes up around 6am and wants out of the SNOO and to be held. He's awake a good chunk of the day, as of literally the last few days. He has about 3 long naps through the day and asleep for the night by 8pm,although we don't put him in his bed until we are ready to go to bed. We try to give him a dream feed at 10am to help him sleep longer. He is usually up by 1am and 4am during the night. He gets a bath every 3 days. I have been doing those during the day, but need to start doing them before bed to get into a routine.
We have his one month visit with Dr Penn today. We noticed Matty was getting constipated and he was uncomfortable trying to have a bowl movement, plus he had allot of gas. We were using Gripe Water almost daily to help with the gas issue. We switched his formula from Similac Pro-Advance to Similac Total Comfort; however, the formula had a smell and his gas had the same. Then, we tried the Similac Pro Sensitive and it seems to be better for his tummy. The one thing both of my boys inherited from me was my sensitive tummy!
At his one month checkup, Matheson grew 2" and 2lbs!
Dr Penn noticed he has a hydrocele. This will be watched and hopefully it will resolve by his first birthday.
A hydrocele (HI-droe-seel) is a type of swelling in the scrotum that occurs when fluid collects in the thin sheath surrounding a testicle. Hydrocele is common in newborns and usually disappears without treatment by age 1.
Wednesday, October 10, 2018
Hospital Bag Must Haves
I wanted to write this while everything was still fresh in my mind. I started researching and packing my hospital bag at 19 weeks, so I was super prepared!
The items I used and actually needed as below:
1. Eye mask. NEED. Hospital rooms are bright and nurses are in and out all day and night. We were there for 4 days, 3 nights and I was glad to have my eye mask to allow me to catch sleep for a few minutes here and there.
2. Cute Socks. NEED. I didn't wear flip flops or slippers, but getting in and out of the bed, I had my socks on. I wore my PUSH socks during the active part of my induction and loved them. If anything, next time I would pack another pair as I only packed two.
3. Clip on Fan. NEED. I had a magnesium IV due to pre-e, so my whole body felt like it was on fire. My fan clipped to my hospital bed blowing in my face was a GODSEND. However, I didn't realize the battery was a rechargeable battery and didn't pack the USB charger, so Nick had to go to the gift shop and buy me a charger. I'll remember that next time.
4. Dry Shampoo. NEED. I was in the hospital for 4 days. I took 2 showers while there, but never washed my hair as I didn't want to have to deal with blow drying and styling. My hair was never greasy or smelled bad. I swear by Living Proof Dry Shampoo.
5. Nightgown and robe. NEED. I brought one robe and two maternity nightgowns. After delivery, you are wearing mesh underwear and the biggest pad you have ever seen. You don't want to be pulling up and down pajama pants or leggings. Plus, your hospital bed will have a potty pad to sit on catch any leaks.
6. Delivery gown. NEED. I wore the hospital provided gown for the first night while I had the cervidel in. The back didn't cover my backside and the material was scratchy. I wore my delivery gown for my acual induction day and it was soft and comfortable, covering everything, but giving the nurses access to everything they needed.
7. 10ft iphone charging cord. NEED. I packed two and both were used. I always had access to my fully charged phone because induction is a long process.
8. Makeup. NICE TO HAVE. I wore makeup on days one and four. The other two I couldn't have cared less. It was nice to feel fresh and made up when we left the hospital.
9. Chapstick and ponytail elastics. NEED. There is something about the air in a hospital that your lips are always dry. I kept mine on the table right besides me. And my hair was always in a top knot or pony.
10. Toiletries bag. NEED. This is a hospital not a hotel, so nothing is provided to shower. I brought travel sized items like: Shampoo, conditioner, dry shampoo, bodywash, deordorant, fluffy, facewash, razor, toothbrush and toothpaste. Nick was able to use all these items as well (he brought his own toothbrush!)
11. Fridababy Friget, the Momwasher NEED. The hospital will provide a squirt bottle, but this one is SO MUCH BETTER. It even comes with a travel bag to bring to the hospital. Trust me. You will need this.
12. Heating pad. NEED. I used this with my 10 year old son while in labor before I get the epidural and it was a godsend the second time around too.
The only item I packed that was absolutely a waste was the Amazon Fire Stick. DO NOT NEED.
The hospital tour stated the TVs were compatible, but we found that not to be the case. The nurse and electrical guy that was called couldn't get it to work either. We tried using this on day one when I just had cervidal placed and was in good spirits to pass the time watching TV. The problem seemed to be there was no way to switch to HDMI since the remote was a hospital bed programmed remote.
The items I used and actually needed as below:
1. Eye mask. NEED. Hospital rooms are bright and nurses are in and out all day and night. We were there for 4 days, 3 nights and I was glad to have my eye mask to allow me to catch sleep for a few minutes here and there.
2. Cute Socks. NEED. I didn't wear flip flops or slippers, but getting in and out of the bed, I had my socks on. I wore my PUSH socks during the active part of my induction and loved them. If anything, next time I would pack another pair as I only packed two.
3. Clip on Fan. NEED. I had a magnesium IV due to pre-e, so my whole body felt like it was on fire. My fan clipped to my hospital bed blowing in my face was a GODSEND. However, I didn't realize the battery was a rechargeable battery and didn't pack the USB charger, so Nick had to go to the gift shop and buy me a charger. I'll remember that next time.
4. Dry Shampoo. NEED. I was in the hospital for 4 days. I took 2 showers while there, but never washed my hair as I didn't want to have to deal with blow drying and styling. My hair was never greasy or smelled bad. I swear by Living Proof Dry Shampoo.
5. Nightgown and robe. NEED. I brought one robe and two maternity nightgowns. After delivery, you are wearing mesh underwear and the biggest pad you have ever seen. You don't want to be pulling up and down pajama pants or leggings. Plus, your hospital bed will have a potty pad to sit on catch any leaks.
6. Delivery gown. NEED. I wore the hospital provided gown for the first night while I had the cervidel in. The back didn't cover my backside and the material was scratchy. I wore my delivery gown for my acual induction day and it was soft and comfortable, covering everything, but giving the nurses access to everything they needed.
7. 10ft iphone charging cord. NEED. I packed two and both were used. I always had access to my fully charged phone because induction is a long process.
8. Makeup. NICE TO HAVE. I wore makeup on days one and four. The other two I couldn't have cared less. It was nice to feel fresh and made up when we left the hospital.
9. Chapstick and ponytail elastics. NEED. There is something about the air in a hospital that your lips are always dry. I kept mine on the table right besides me. And my hair was always in a top knot or pony.
10. Toiletries bag. NEED. This is a hospital not a hotel, so nothing is provided to shower. I brought travel sized items like: Shampoo, conditioner, dry shampoo, bodywash, deordorant, fluffy, facewash, razor, toothbrush and toothpaste. Nick was able to use all these items as well (he brought his own toothbrush!)
11. Fridababy Friget, the Momwasher NEED. The hospital will provide a squirt bottle, but this one is SO MUCH BETTER. It even comes with a travel bag to bring to the hospital. Trust me. You will need this.
12. Heating pad. NEED. I used this with my 10 year old son while in labor before I get the epidural and it was a godsend the second time around too.
The only item I packed that was absolutely a waste was the Amazon Fire Stick. DO NOT NEED.
The hospital tour stated the TVs were compatible, but we found that not to be the case. The nurse and electrical guy that was called couldn't get it to work either. We tried using this on day one when I just had cervidal placed and was in good spirits to pass the time watching TV. The problem seemed to be there was no way to switch to HDMI since the remote was a hospital bed programmed remote.
Monday, October 8, 2018
Week One at home with baby
We were released from the hospital on Tuesday afternoon and home by 5pm.
The wheaties were in full on curiousity mode as the "belly puppy" was now home. The first night was exhausting, so was the second night. Matheson had his first visit with Dr Penn. He has been Tristan's pediatrician for 10 years now. Nick liked the Dr as I knew he would. Dr Penn is older and has a Mr Rogers vibe. Very im
On Thursday, Dr Penn called with his billirubin results and it was higher than anticipated, so he instructed us to go to Texas Children's Hospital and have it re-tested with rapid results to see if it had gone down any. We left right away and ended up admitted for 12 hours of photolight therapy. That night was super hard as we didn't anticipate spending the night in another hospital. Also, do you know how hard it is when your baby cries, not to pick him up to comfort him? Very hard. We could only remove Matty from under the lights for quick feedings every 3 hours. Nick and I took shifts. One would sleep, the other would watch to make sure his neoglasses stayed on and give him his binky when he cried. He was released the next morning when the blood test showed his levels had gone from 18.4 to 14.2.
Saturday, I was starting to feel like myself again and even decorated the front yard with Halloween decorations. Nick and I were getting into a groove of feedings and naps. He was getting more and more comfortable being a dad. I love that man more than he will ever know. Watching him care for our son and for me has given me a since of calm and security that I did not have with Tristan.
Monday was our follow-up visit with Dr Penn. Matheson is doing great! More bloodwork to make sure the levels were continuing to go down. Now at a 12.
Tuesday morning, today, I was on my own for the first time as Nick returned to work. I was sad he only got one week of paternity leave and 4 days of that was spent in hospitals.
I brought Matty to get his newborn photos taken with Bri Sullivan in The Woodlands. We needed to be there at 8am. He was PERFECT during his photoshoot. A complete natural and I can't wait to see the photos in 3 weeks. These will be used for our Christmas card, so I won't be posting on social media just yet.
The wheaties were in full on curiousity mode as the "belly puppy" was now home. The first night was exhausting, so was the second night. Matheson had his first visit with Dr Penn. He has been Tristan's pediatrician for 10 years now. Nick liked the Dr as I knew he would. Dr Penn is older and has a Mr Rogers vibe. Very im
On Thursday, Dr Penn called with his billirubin results and it was higher than anticipated, so he instructed us to go to Texas Children's Hospital and have it re-tested with rapid results to see if it had gone down any. We left right away and ended up admitted for 12 hours of photolight therapy. That night was super hard as we didn't anticipate spending the night in another hospital. Also, do you know how hard it is when your baby cries, not to pick him up to comfort him? Very hard. We could only remove Matty from under the lights for quick feedings every 3 hours. Nick and I took shifts. One would sleep, the other would watch to make sure his neoglasses stayed on and give him his binky when he cried. He was released the next morning when the blood test showed his levels had gone from 18.4 to 14.2.
Saturday, I was starting to feel like myself again and even decorated the front yard with Halloween decorations. Nick and I were getting into a groove of feedings and naps. He was getting more and more comfortable being a dad. I love that man more than he will ever know. Watching him care for our son and for me has given me a since of calm and security that I did not have with Tristan.
Monday was our follow-up visit with Dr Penn. Matheson is doing great! More bloodwork to make sure the levels were continuing to go down. Now at a 12.
Tuesday morning, today, I was on my own for the first time as Nick returned to work. I was sad he only got one week of paternity leave and 4 days of that was spent in hospitals.
I brought Matty to get his newborn photos taken with Bri Sullivan in The Woodlands. We needed to be there at 8am. He was PERFECT during his photoshoot. A complete natural and I can't wait to see the photos in 3 weeks. These will be used for our Christmas card, so I won't be posting on social media just yet.
Thursday, October 4, 2018
Birth story! Matheson is here!
Matheson Paul Norstrom
10/1/18 Born 1:37am
6lbs 13oz 19" long
36 weeks gestation
Today is October 4, 2018.
I type this from my home office while Matheson is currently dreaming away in his Mamaroo swing a few feet away from me. We had his first pediatrician visit today as he is showing signs of jaundice. Bloodwork was done and we were instructed to go outside or keep him close to a sunny window for vitamin D.
Saturday, September 29
My birth story starts on Saturday. At 11:45am, I needed to bring my 24 hour urine collection to the hospital and be observed for the 1-2 hours that it took to get the urine results. My last collection 4 weeks prior had me at 275 and 300 was the cutoff for pre-eclampsia. As my blood pressure continued to rise, headaches that couldn't be resolved with Tylenol and I had a feeling that I would end up with pre-e and be admitted. I packed the remaining items in my carry on bag and loaded into the car. Nick and Tristan stayed home as I was just supposed to be gone a short amount of time.
Fast forward a few hours, after being observed in L&D and I did indeed delevop pre-eclampsia and the on call doctor wanted to move forward with an induction THAT NIGHT. I signed admittance forms via an ipad and was quickly moved to another room. Nick brought Tristan to my moms and made arrangements for the dogs and then headed to the hospital.
I was given Cervidil, which was in a tampon form to be inserted for 12 hours. I received it at 6:43pm on 9/29. It was to be removed the following morning. I was also started on a bolis of 4mg of magnesium at 10pm for 30 minutes and then 2mg every hour there after until I delivered. Never in my life have I experienced such an awful feeling from a medication. My whole body flushed and felt hot, the IV felt like pure fire entering my veins. I needed an ice pack just on the IV port. The nurse dropped the AC in the room and everyone froze while I felt my body be on fire. It also caused flu like symptoms. In other words, I was miserable.
Sunday, September 30
Once the Cervidil was removed at 6am, I was allowed to shower and put on my hospital gown that I brought. Pitocin was started at 8am that Sunday. I was still only 1cm dilated after the cervidil. The contractions started pretty soon after the Pitocin and I was given an epidural at 11:30am.
The epidural was traumatic. Not at all like I experienced with Tristan. Last time, I remember there being a burning sensation that quickly resolved. This time, there was pain and burning and I couldn't stay still to have it inserted. I was having contractions and my blood sugar dropped very low, which caused me to be extremely emotional. I held the nurse, Elizabeth and cried as the anesthesiologist tried multiple times to insert, which caused more pain each time. Once done, I still couldn't stop crying. Nick was not allowed to be in the room during this and now I understand why partners aren't allowed as my pain and distress would have certainly caused him to get upset.
I got relief pretty quickly from contraction pain and the need to urinate, but the magnesium feeling of awfulness never went away. I dilated slowly. Each check, I was still only 2cm. The nurse would move me in different positions from side to side to using a peanut birthing ball every 30 minutes. Nothing. Still not dilated anymore. Shift change at 7pm and I received another nurse, Cynthia. Both Nick and I loved Elizabeth and didn't want her to leave. I need to bring her cookies or something because she truly went above and beyond. Every other nurse asked me what I needed, Elizabeth anticipated my needs when I didn't even know what they were like bringing me a popcicle when I hadn't eaten since the night before or trying to figure out with Nick how the Amazon Firestick worked on the TV. She was simply amazing.
After each cervical check, my Pitocin was increased. By the time I was ready to push, the Pitocin drip was already maxed out at 30. The maxed doses caused intense contractions that started nausea and the shakes. I threw up several times back to back and needed to be put on something stronger than Zofron. I don't remember the name, but it finally took away the need to puke. I was also using the button to release more numbing medication into my epidural. I was at 7cm when all this was occuring and I was started to get delusional that I would actually succeed in having a vaginal delivery. I hung in there.
Monday, October 1st.
I was in labor for over 30 hours at this point. In the wee hours of the morning on the first day of October, I was finally dilated to 9.5 and the need to push was also layered with the need to poop! Matheson was engaged in my birth canal for awhile putting pressure on my rectum. Pure agony even with epidural. I begged for the nurses to just let me push. The doctor on call, Dr Macintosh agreed to let me start pushing. It felt surreal at that point as the overhead lights were turned on and here I was spread eagle naked for all to see and I just didn't care. I pushed once and the doctor stated she could see his head and it would happen very quickly. The dynamics changed as the doctor changed into her birthing gown and we started again. I pushed for less than five minutes before Matheson made his way into the world! I felt no pain during the active part of pushing. At 1:37am, he was put on my chest covered in amnotic goo and I was so in love with that face! Matheson was very alert and looking at me while the nurses cleaned him up. He was then whisked away to the warmer. He was crying, but more like singing, so he was taken to the nursery for a quick one over to make sure he was breathing properly. He was breathing normally and was brought back a few minutes later. His APGAR score was 8/9, so pure healthy perfection!
I ended up with a second degree internal tear. Dr Macintosh stitched me up while Matheson was in the warmer. She stated it was "not an impressive tear", which made me chuckle as to make sure I didn't overplay my battle ground labor story. Insert eye roll
After everything I went through with IVF, my baby boy was finally here. It was such a beautiful and emotional moment to realize that we made it. We survived infertility and were now parents to a healthy boy that shares the same birth day as his dad and brother, the first. A date that truly won't be forgotten.
I was moved to an antepartum room about an hour after delivery as I still needed magesium for 24 hours after delivery. I was not happy about this, but at least the dosage was lowered to 1mg during that time. I wanted an upgraded suite, but couldn't get one due to still needing care myself.
We were released to go home the next day about 4pm. It was a worldwind of people coming in and out of our room. I had a nurse and he had his own baby nurse. He needed a hearing check, a jaundice check, a circumcision and car seat check. The car seat check was only for babies born before 37 weeks. He needed to maintain his oxygen levels during a 90 minute session in the seat. He failed twice that evening and had to have it again the following morning, when he did pass. We were so ready to go at that point and were just hoping everything was ok.
I was so glad to finally get out of that hospital and to our own home. We did it!
I had the nurse use a rainbow inkpad for Matheson's footprints. I never want to forget the twins we lost before that made him possible.
10/1/18 Born 1:37am
6lbs 13oz 19" long
36 weeks gestation
Today is October 4, 2018.
I type this from my home office while Matheson is currently dreaming away in his Mamaroo swing a few feet away from me. We had his first pediatrician visit today as he is showing signs of jaundice. Bloodwork was done and we were instructed to go outside or keep him close to a sunny window for vitamin D.
Saturday, September 29
My birth story starts on Saturday. At 11:45am, I needed to bring my 24 hour urine collection to the hospital and be observed for the 1-2 hours that it took to get the urine results. My last collection 4 weeks prior had me at 275 and 300 was the cutoff for pre-eclampsia. As my blood pressure continued to rise, headaches that couldn't be resolved with Tylenol and I had a feeling that I would end up with pre-e and be admitted. I packed the remaining items in my carry on bag and loaded into the car. Nick and Tristan stayed home as I was just supposed to be gone a short amount of time.
Fast forward a few hours, after being observed in L&D and I did indeed delevop pre-eclampsia and the on call doctor wanted to move forward with an induction THAT NIGHT. I signed admittance forms via an ipad and was quickly moved to another room. Nick brought Tristan to my moms and made arrangements for the dogs and then headed to the hospital.
I was given Cervidil, which was in a tampon form to be inserted for 12 hours. I received it at 6:43pm on 9/29. It was to be removed the following morning. I was also started on a bolis of 4mg of magnesium at 10pm for 30 minutes and then 2mg every hour there after until I delivered. Never in my life have I experienced such an awful feeling from a medication. My whole body flushed and felt hot, the IV felt like pure fire entering my veins. I needed an ice pack just on the IV port. The nurse dropped the AC in the room and everyone froze while I felt my body be on fire. It also caused flu like symptoms. In other words, I was miserable.
Sunday, September 30
Once the Cervidil was removed at 6am, I was allowed to shower and put on my hospital gown that I brought. Pitocin was started at 8am that Sunday. I was still only 1cm dilated after the cervidil. The contractions started pretty soon after the Pitocin and I was given an epidural at 11:30am.
The epidural was traumatic. Not at all like I experienced with Tristan. Last time, I remember there being a burning sensation that quickly resolved. This time, there was pain and burning and I couldn't stay still to have it inserted. I was having contractions and my blood sugar dropped very low, which caused me to be extremely emotional. I held the nurse, Elizabeth and cried as the anesthesiologist tried multiple times to insert, which caused more pain each time. Once done, I still couldn't stop crying. Nick was not allowed to be in the room during this and now I understand why partners aren't allowed as my pain and distress would have certainly caused him to get upset.
I got relief pretty quickly from contraction pain and the need to urinate, but the magnesium feeling of awfulness never went away. I dilated slowly. Each check, I was still only 2cm. The nurse would move me in different positions from side to side to using a peanut birthing ball every 30 minutes. Nothing. Still not dilated anymore. Shift change at 7pm and I received another nurse, Cynthia. Both Nick and I loved Elizabeth and didn't want her to leave. I need to bring her cookies or something because she truly went above and beyond. Every other nurse asked me what I needed, Elizabeth anticipated my needs when I didn't even know what they were like bringing me a popcicle when I hadn't eaten since the night before or trying to figure out with Nick how the Amazon Firestick worked on the TV. She was simply amazing.
After each cervical check, my Pitocin was increased. By the time I was ready to push, the Pitocin drip was already maxed out at 30. The maxed doses caused intense contractions that started nausea and the shakes. I threw up several times back to back and needed to be put on something stronger than Zofron. I don't remember the name, but it finally took away the need to puke. I was also using the button to release more numbing medication into my epidural. I was at 7cm when all this was occuring and I was started to get delusional that I would actually succeed in having a vaginal delivery. I hung in there.
Monday, October 1st.
I was in labor for over 30 hours at this point. In the wee hours of the morning on the first day of October, I was finally dilated to 9.5 and the need to push was also layered with the need to poop! Matheson was engaged in my birth canal for awhile putting pressure on my rectum. Pure agony even with epidural. I begged for the nurses to just let me push. The doctor on call, Dr Macintosh agreed to let me start pushing. It felt surreal at that point as the overhead lights were turned on and here I was spread eagle naked for all to see and I just didn't care. I pushed once and the doctor stated she could see his head and it would happen very quickly. The dynamics changed as the doctor changed into her birthing gown and we started again. I pushed for less than five minutes before Matheson made his way into the world! I felt no pain during the active part of pushing. At 1:37am, he was put on my chest covered in amnotic goo and I was so in love with that face! Matheson was very alert and looking at me while the nurses cleaned him up. He was then whisked away to the warmer. He was crying, but more like singing, so he was taken to the nursery for a quick one over to make sure he was breathing properly. He was breathing normally and was brought back a few minutes later. His APGAR score was 8/9, so pure healthy perfection!
I ended up with a second degree internal tear. Dr Macintosh stitched me up while Matheson was in the warmer. She stated it was "not an impressive tear", which made me chuckle as to make sure I didn't overplay my battle ground labor story. Insert eye roll
After everything I went through with IVF, my baby boy was finally here. It was such a beautiful and emotional moment to realize that we made it. We survived infertility and were now parents to a healthy boy that shares the same birth day as his dad and brother, the first. A date that truly won't be forgotten.
I was moved to an antepartum room about an hour after delivery as I still needed magesium for 24 hours after delivery. I was not happy about this, but at least the dosage was lowered to 1mg during that time. I wanted an upgraded suite, but couldn't get one due to still needing care myself.
We were released to go home the next day about 4pm. It was a worldwind of people coming in and out of our room. I had a nurse and he had his own baby nurse. He needed a hearing check, a jaundice check, a circumcision and car seat check. The car seat check was only for babies born before 37 weeks. He needed to maintain his oxygen levels during a 90 minute session in the seat. He failed twice that evening and had to have it again the following morning, when he did pass. We were so ready to go at that point and were just hoping everything was ok.
I was so glad to finally get out of that hospital and to our own home. We did it!
I had the nurse use a rainbow inkpad for Matheson's footprints. I never want to forget the twins we lost before that made him possible.
"Rainbow Babies is the understanding that the beauty of a rainbow does not negate the ravages of the storm. When a rainbow appears, it doesn't mean the storm never happened or that the family is not still dealing with its aftermath. What it means is that something beautiful and full of light has appeared in the midst of the darkness and clouds. Storm clouds may still hover but the rainbow provides a counterbalance of color, energy, and hope.” - Unknown
Thursday, September 27, 2018
35w4d
Only 12 more days until induction. One more doctor's appointment after today. Why does it still seem soooo far away?
Good news is baby boy is measuring 6.5lbs (65% percentile), which isn't bad for a mom with gestational diabetes. He still looks healthy and perfect on the ultrasound. And O MY the hair that is on his head is LONG. He is literally going to come out needing a haircut. I look at Nick and love all that luscious hair that he has and can't help but think this little boy will look just like his dad. It makes me smile.
I am 1cm dilated and my cervix is soft. Yay! My body is getting ready for labor. I wonder if the Labor Prep tea or the acupuncture can be thanked for moving things along? Either way, I will continue to do both.
My insulin is being increased again to 22 units AM and 26 units PM. I am so tired of finger pricks and watching what I eat. I have been getting daily headaches for the last week. This could be a symptom of pre-clampsia, so if I get another one, I am to go to the hospital for observation. Ugh.
I also need to do another 24 hour urine collection and bring to the hospital Saturday rather than waiting for Monday. I will be observed while waiting for the results. This will be the *3rd* time that I have done a collection. Last time my protein results was 275. 300 is the cutoff. I have a headache while I type this. I am just going to wait until Saturday morning because I will just have to stay in the hospital overnight and do the urine collection and I would rather be in my own home.
12 more days....
Good news is baby boy is measuring 6.5lbs (65% percentile), which isn't bad for a mom with gestational diabetes. He still looks healthy and perfect on the ultrasound. And O MY the hair that is on his head is LONG. He is literally going to come out needing a haircut. I look at Nick and love all that luscious hair that he has and can't help but think this little boy will look just like his dad. It makes me smile.
I am 1cm dilated and my cervix is soft. Yay! My body is getting ready for labor. I wonder if the Labor Prep tea or the acupuncture can be thanked for moving things along? Either way, I will continue to do both.
My insulin is being increased again to 22 units AM and 26 units PM. I am so tired of finger pricks and watching what I eat. I have been getting daily headaches for the last week. This could be a symptom of pre-clampsia, so if I get another one, I am to go to the hospital for observation. Ugh.
I also need to do another 24 hour urine collection and bring to the hospital Saturday rather than waiting for Monday. I will be observed while waiting for the results. This will be the *3rd* time that I have done a collection. Last time my protein results was 275. 300 is the cutoff. I have a headache while I type this. I am just going to wait until Saturday morning because I will just have to stay in the hospital overnight and do the urine collection and I would rather be in my own home.
12 more days....
Tuesday, September 25, 2018
Acupuncture, mucus plug
I had acupuncture yesterday to start prepping for an easier induction.
It did something as I was up all night with contractions that weren't regular, back pain and peeing every 30 minutes. Then this morning, a piece of mucus plug came out. With Tristan, I lost my mucus plug in pieces and my water broke 3 days later.
Very exciting! I can't wait to meet Matheson!
It did something as I was up all night with contractions that weren't regular, back pain and peeing every 30 minutes. Then this morning, a piece of mucus plug came out. With Tristan, I lost my mucus plug in pieces and my water broke 3 days later.
Very exciting! I can't wait to meet Matheson!
Thursday, September 20, 2018
34w4d - Induction date scheduled!
At my weekly visit today, my blood pressure was still high even being on BP medication. Dr Kelly decided to move forward with my induction at 37 weeks on 10/9/18! I will arrive to the hospital on Monday, 10/8 to start cervidil to soften my cervix overnight.
My blood sugars still have been high the last week and my insulin was increased again. 18 units in the AM and 22 units in the PM
The ultrasound showed that Matheson had finally flipped and was now head down. I hope to avoid a c-section, but that also depends on how big he gets too. Next week, there will be a growth scan.
To insure that my induction goes smoothly, since I will be only 37 weeks, I made an appointment with my acupunturist and started drinking red raspberry leaf tea today.
2.5 weeks left and OMG, I am so excited to meet this little boy!
We were able to get a glimpse of his sweet face on the ultrasound and baby boy has tons of hair already and chunky cheeks. I just know he is going to be adorable!
My blood sugars still have been high the last week and my insulin was increased again. 18 units in the AM and 22 units in the PM
The ultrasound showed that Matheson had finally flipped and was now head down. I hope to avoid a c-section, but that also depends on how big he gets too. Next week, there will be a growth scan.
To insure that my induction goes smoothly, since I will be only 37 weeks, I made an appointment with my acupunturist and started drinking red raspberry leaf tea today.
2.5 weeks left and OMG, I am so excited to meet this little boy!
We were able to get a glimpse of his sweet face on the ultrasound and baby boy has tons of hair already and chunky cheeks. I just know he is going to be adorable!
Saturday, September 15, 2018
33w4d
My fluid level looked good this week. Up to 12 from 8 last week. My insulin was increased again as I can't seem to keep my numbers in the normal range. Weekly visits from now on and still thinking I will be induced at 37w, although nothing has been booked yet.
These are my sugar levels since starting insulin. I am sooo over pricking my finger 4x per day.
| Date | Fasting | Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner |
| Started 10 units PM | ||||
| 8/31/2018 | 124 | 109 | 114 | 171 |
| 9/1/2018 | 132 | 98 | 140 | 103 |
| 9/2/2018 | 114 | 141 | 108 | 133 |
| 9/3/2018 | 116 | 108 | 163 | 149 |
| 9/4/2018 | 121 | 84 | n/a | 126 |
| 9/5/2018 | 104 | 146 | 122 | 140 |
| 9/6/2018 | 117 | 113 | 130 | 156 |
| Increased to 10 units AM/ 12 units PM | ||||
| 9/7/2018 | 122 | 96 | 143 | 140 |
| 9/8/2018 | 111 | 137 | 163 | 172 |
| 9/9/2018 | 111 | 117 | 122 | 147 |
| 9/10/2018 | 119 | 199 | 147 | 138 |
| 9/11/2018 | 99 | 94 | 177 | 123 |
| 9/12/2018 | 103 | 149 | n/a | 162 |
| Increased to 14 units AM/ 18 units PM | ||||
| 9/13/2018 | 118 | 120 | 120 | 193 |
| 9/14/2018 | 105 | 115 | 130 | |
| 9/15/2018 | 100 | 124 | ||
Wednesday, September 5, 2018
Emotional morning for no reason
32w3d
I am super emotional this morning. I took a shower and was completely wiped out that I needed to lay on our bed for 20 minutes to rest.
I pricked my finger 2 hours after breakfast and it was high at 146.... I ate the same breakfast as yesterday, a hard boiled egg and a bowl of Cheerios (1 carb+1 protein). Yesterday's reading was 82. I am just so over all of this and have been crying for the past 20 minutes. And I feel bad for feeling bad! Nick is at work, Tristan is at school. The house is clean and I have no where I need to be. I am grateful to be pregnant and not working. I think I just want to feel like me again. End rant.
Friday, August 31, 2018
Insulin
At my appointment yesterday at 31w4d, I was having chest pains again. That is 3 times in one week. It seems to correlate to my blood pressure being high. The doctor wants me to see a cardiologist before starting me on BP medication. She also prescribed Previcid to help with the heartburn, just in case that was causing chest pain as well.
Upon looking at the last week of sugar levels, my fasting is always high even when having a good number after dinner and the appropriate snack of carb to protein ratio, so it was determined that my GD isn't just diet influenced, but more the placenta not making enough insulin. This is tough. After a year and half of doing injections for IVF, I thought I was done with needles. Sigh, I need to do 10 units at night and I go back in a week to see if any adjustments need to be made. The doctor also put me back on rest, so I can't do much or go many places anymore. I wanted to setup my 37 week induction, but she didn't even think I will make it to 37 weeks. It was mentioned that the chest pains could be atypical of Pre-eclampsia and they might need to deliver me early if it continues. Scary for sure as I need baby boy to cook a little longer!
Nick has attended almost every appointment this pregnancy. I am grateful as he will ask questions and stay involved when this just feels so overwhelming to me.
Weight gain so far is 25lbs
Upon looking at the last week of sugar levels, my fasting is always high even when having a good number after dinner and the appropriate snack of carb to protein ratio, so it was determined that my GD isn't just diet influenced, but more the placenta not making enough insulin. This is tough. After a year and half of doing injections for IVF, I thought I was done with needles. Sigh, I need to do 10 units at night and I go back in a week to see if any adjustments need to be made. The doctor also put me back on rest, so I can't do much or go many places anymore. I wanted to setup my 37 week induction, but she didn't even think I will make it to 37 weeks. It was mentioned that the chest pains could be atypical of Pre-eclampsia and they might need to deliver me early if it continues. Scary for sure as I need baby boy to cook a little longer!
Nick has attended almost every appointment this pregnancy. I am grateful as he will ask questions and stay involved when this just feels so overwhelming to me.
Weight gain so far is 25lbs
Tuesday, August 28, 2018
Baby Shower Day!
8/25/18
I was blown away at how perfect everything was for our shower! Our friend, Lynn Shaw did an amazing job and completely exceeded expectations! I wasn't involved in the planning, which was hard for my type A personality. A few months earlier, I emailed Lynn some ideas that I had on Pinterest. She ran with it and it was better than I could have hoped for!
We had most people attend that we invited, 22 people total and several kids. My mom and sister did not attend. My feelings were slightly hurt, but I figured if they would have attended, I would be dealing with them the entire time. Tristan did not have expected behavior as he wanted to leave to go to his step brother's birthday party at his dad's house, so he was picked up early from the shower. Other than that, everything was perfect!
I was blown away at how perfect everything was for our shower! Our friend, Lynn Shaw did an amazing job and completely exceeded expectations! I wasn't involved in the planning, which was hard for my type A personality. A few months earlier, I emailed Lynn some ideas that I had on Pinterest. She ran with it and it was better than I could have hoped for!
We had most people attend that we invited, 22 people total and several kids. My mom and sister did not attend. My feelings were slightly hurt, but I figured if they would have attended, I would be dealing with them the entire time. Tristan did not have expected behavior as he wanted to leave to go to his step brother's birthday party at his dad's house, so he was picked up early from the shower. Other than that, everything was perfect!
30w5d BP Scare and admitted to L&D
8/24/18
Friday morning I woke up at 2am with chest pain and shortness of breath. I tossed and turned for awhile trying to go back to sleep. I finally got up and checked my blood pressure and it was 155/96, the highest it has ever been!
I laid down and checked again 10 minutes later, the same. I called the after hours nurse and she told me to go to the hospital.
Nick was woken up and so was Tristan and we made our way to Texas Women's at 4:30am!
We hadn't taken the hospital tour yet, so were a little discombobulated. Nick dropped me off at the ER, while he parked, instead of using the free valet! The ER told me to go to L&D in the West Tower (we were in the East Tower), so Tristan and I walked to L&D and went up to the 3rd floor. Upon checkin, L&D stated I needed to go to the ER and then they wheeled me in a wheelchair. Goodness!
By the time we get to the ER and get checked in, my blood pressure was normal! Since I was still having chest pains, they started an arsenal of tests: bloodwork, BP monitoring, urine tests, several EKGs, a VQ scan and an X-Ray. I can only imagine the bill for all this!
My BP did start spiking when Nick left to bring Tristan to school, so I was admitted to L&D for further observation and monitoring of baby. My baby shower was the next day! Good thing is everything stabilized and I was released at 3:30pm to go home. I missed my dinner reservations with Sonia and Mindy. MIL's flight landed at 4:30pm, so it was good timing all around to get checked out and pick her up from the airport.
I was so tired from everything. I had stickiness all over me from the many EKGs and a hole in my arm from the port that the ER put in. It started gushing when the nurse removed it, like a geyser that wouldn't stop! Glad Nick was able to handle the blood and not pass out.
After a good night's rest, I felt better the next day and had the best baby shower EVER!
Friday morning I woke up at 2am with chest pain and shortness of breath. I tossed and turned for awhile trying to go back to sleep. I finally got up and checked my blood pressure and it was 155/96, the highest it has ever been!
I laid down and checked again 10 minutes later, the same. I called the after hours nurse and she told me to go to the hospital.
Nick was woken up and so was Tristan and we made our way to Texas Women's at 4:30am!
We hadn't taken the hospital tour yet, so were a little discombobulated. Nick dropped me off at the ER, while he parked, instead of using the free valet! The ER told me to go to L&D in the West Tower (we were in the East Tower), so Tristan and I walked to L&D and went up to the 3rd floor. Upon checkin, L&D stated I needed to go to the ER and then they wheeled me in a wheelchair. Goodness!
By the time we get to the ER and get checked in, my blood pressure was normal! Since I was still having chest pains, they started an arsenal of tests: bloodwork, BP monitoring, urine tests, several EKGs, a VQ scan and an X-Ray. I can only imagine the bill for all this!
My BP did start spiking when Nick left to bring Tristan to school, so I was admitted to L&D for further observation and monitoring of baby. My baby shower was the next day! Good thing is everything stabilized and I was released at 3:30pm to go home. I missed my dinner reservations with Sonia and Mindy. MIL's flight landed at 4:30pm, so it was good timing all around to get checked out and pick her up from the airport.
I was so tired from everything. I had stickiness all over me from the many EKGs and a hole in my arm from the port that the ER put in. It started gushing when the nurse removed it, like a geyser that wouldn't stop! Glad Nick was able to handle the blood and not pass out.
After a good night's rest, I felt better the next day and had the best baby shower EVER!
Wednesday, August 22, 2018
Maternity Photos 30w2d
Yesterday was a busy day!
I had a hair appointment at Bella Rinova Salon at noon. Then a makeup appointment at 2:30pm at Nordstrom, then drove to my photo shoot in Spring at Bri Sullivan Photography. I made it there 15 minutes early...WHEWW!
I LOVED my photographer and I can't wait to see the photos! I wore a blue dress from Sew Trendy and a cream lace dress from her client closet for my photos. My hair and makeup looked amazing and I felt soooo beautiful during the photos.
This pregnancy has been a difficult journey, so anything to make me feel beautiful is necessary at this point.
Updated with favorites from photo shoot!
I had a hair appointment at Bella Rinova Salon at noon. Then a makeup appointment at 2:30pm at Nordstrom, then drove to my photo shoot in Spring at Bri Sullivan Photography. I made it there 15 minutes early...WHEWW!
I LOVED my photographer and I can't wait to see the photos! I wore a blue dress from Sew Trendy and a cream lace dress from her client closet for my photos. My hair and makeup looked amazing and I felt soooo beautiful during the photos.
This pregnancy has been a difficult journey, so anything to make me feel beautiful is necessary at this point.
Updated with favorites from photo shoot!
Gestational Diabetes
I found out I failed my 3 hour glucose test on 8/16/18. I was devastated and completely depressed about it. Today is my GD training class with a specialist and dietitian.
I hate diets and being restricted during pregnancy is miserable. I needed a few days to cope with my new reality: finger pricks 4 times per day and watching what I eat. It's been a few days now and my sugar numbers are always high regardless what I eat. I just know that I will need insulin or meds until the end of my pregnancy.
Why has my journey been so hard this time?
I hate diets and being restricted during pregnancy is miserable. I needed a few days to cope with my new reality: finger pricks 4 times per day and watching what I eat. It's been a few days now and my sugar numbers are always high regardless what I eat. I just know that I will need insulin or meds until the end of my pregnancy.
Why has my journey been so hard this time?
Wednesday, August 15, 2018
28w4d ultrasound
What we know is this little guy is still breech, has a ton of hair already and very chubby cheeks! My fluid level dropped again and I need to drink more water. The fluid level was measuring at a 10, when last time it was a 13. Dr Kelly didn't seem concerned, but I will go back at 32 weeks for another and then every week afterwards. 
3 hour Glucose Test
Yesterday morning was a miserable day. Since I failed the one hour glucose test by 7pts, I needed to take the 3 hour fasting to check for gestational diabetes.
It took an hour to get to the medical center and then I needed four blood draws every hour. I was hungry, lightheaded and nauseated from fasting and that awful sugary drink. I did survive and now await the results. Fingers crossed! I've had enough complications this pregnancy, I don't need anymore.
It took an hour to get to the medical center and then I needed four blood draws every hour. I was hungry, lightheaded and nauseated from fasting and that awful sugary drink. I did survive and now await the results. Fingers crossed! I've had enough complications this pregnancy, I don't need anymore.
Sunday, August 12, 2018
29w - Postpartum care kit
If you have been following this blog, you have probably figured out I am a planner and I don't procrastinate.
I had a vaginal delivery with my 10 year old son and I assume to have another one with my doctor recommending an induction at 37 weeks. This means I am taking my memory and knowledge of my previous delivery aftercare needs and applying them to what is available today.
I had the squirt bottle and Dermaplast from the hospital last time and needed both for several days.I wish I would have had ice packs, so bought some specifically made for delivery and hemmorroid care.
I also plan to make padsicles
I had a vaginal delivery with my 10 year old son and I assume to have another one with my doctor recommending an induction at 37 weeks. This means I am taking my memory and knowledge of my previous delivery aftercare needs and applying them to what is available today.
I had the squirt bottle and Dermaplast from the hospital last time and needed both for several days.I wish I would have had ice packs, so bought some specifically made for delivery and hemmorroid care.
I also plan to make padsicles
Sunday, August 5, 2018
Painful BH at 2am - 28 weeks
I woke Nick up last night at 3am after an hour of painful contractions that were coming every ten minutes. I walked the house, sat on my stability ball and drank a bottle of water. By 4:30am, the pain stopped and I was able to go back to sleep. I was calm, but a little worried that we were going to have to go to the hospital! I've had the same feeling a few times today as well.
This pregnancy has been so different than with Tristan. I rarely had any BH with my son and didn't feel the pain of contractions until my water broke. Nick will be going on his last work trip next week for 3 days and now I am worried something will happen while he is gone.
This pregnancy has been so different than with Tristan. I rarely had any BH with my son and didn't feel the pain of contractions until my water broke. Nick will be going on his last work trip next week for 3 days and now I am worried something will happen while he is gone.
Friday, August 3, 2018
27+4 checkup
It took me an hour and 15 minutes to get to my appointment due to traffic. My bladder was about to burst and I didn't think I would be able to get off the freeway to stop to pee. Madness I tell you!
Dr Kelly is keeping me off work the rest of my pregnancy and Unum approved the claim, so officially no more work for me. Also, due to ongoing high blood pressure issues, I will be getting an ultrasound every 4 weeks until 32 weeks, and then weekly thereafter. She stated she would induce me at 37 weeks. I am so excited to have only 9 weeks left! That is the week of Oct 7. I like dates 10/8/18 and 10/10/18. LOVE IT!
I also had to due the glucose screening, which I know I am going to fail the one hour test and have to do the 3 hour test. I failed with Tristan and passed the 3 hour. That sugary drink makes me so sick the rest of the day! I got home and literally crashed by napping for two hours.
Dr Kelly is keeping me off work the rest of my pregnancy and Unum approved the claim, so officially no more work for me. Also, due to ongoing high blood pressure issues, I will be getting an ultrasound every 4 weeks until 32 weeks, and then weekly thereafter. She stated she would induce me at 37 weeks. I am so excited to have only 9 weeks left! That is the week of Oct 7. I like dates 10/8/18 and 10/10/18. LOVE IT!
I also had to due the glucose screening, which I know I am going to fail the one hour test and have to do the 3 hour test. I failed with Tristan and passed the 3 hour. That sugary drink makes me so sick the rest of the day! I got home and literally crashed by napping for two hours.
Friday, July 20, 2018
25+4
Repeat ultrasound with MFM was a success. The doctor was not concerned with my fluid level, which is now 13. She stated normal is between 5-23. Matheson was in a better position to see everything that wasn't seen previously on my anatomy scans. He is perfect!
The doctor aluded to the fact that she thinks my future ultrasounds should be at my OB instead of with her. All around great news! I am happy and healthy and so is baby boy! One week until the 3rd trimester.
August should go by quickly as Tristan starts 4th grade on 8/20. I have maternity photos scheduled on 8/21 and the baby shower is 8/25!
In September, I have several infant and childbirth classes scheduled for the three of us. And October is my favorite month to decorate for Halloween and wait for Matty's arrival!
So excited for all good things to come!
The doctor aluded to the fact that she thinks my future ultrasounds should be at my OB instead of with her. All around great news! I am happy and healthy and so is baby boy! One week until the 3rd trimester.
August should go by quickly as Tristan starts 4th grade on 8/20. I have maternity photos scheduled on 8/21 and the baby shower is 8/25!
In September, I have several infant and childbirth classes scheduled for the three of us. And October is my favorite month to decorate for Halloween and wait for Matty's arrival!
So excited for all good things to come!
Thursday, July 12, 2018
24w+4 - Dehydration
I had my follow-up ultrasound at MFM today. Matheson was still folded in half and would not move to give the tech a good view of him. My amniotic fluid was low. At 12, when doctor wanted to see a 20, so I am not drinking enough water. I set a reminder on my phone to drink 10oz every 45 minutes, which means I am peeing every 10 minutes!
The good news is my hematoma was not seen, YAY! The ticking time bomb is gone! I need to go back next week to see if my fluid increases. Hopefully, the extra water intake helps.
The good news is my hematoma was not seen, YAY! The ticking time bomb is gone! I need to go back next week to see if my fluid increases. Hopefully, the extra water intake helps.
Friday, July 6, 2018
23+5 Uncomfortable
I've reached the point this week where I am uncomfortable due to belly size. I have been getting Braxton Hicks contractions every day since week 20 and Wednesday night, I was miserable as the tightness and squeezing feeling lasted several hours. And I must be crazy as I was telling Nick, after this boy is born, we should use our last tested male embryo and have another one! ahaha
Tuesday, July 3, 2018
23 week checkup
At my 23 week visit yesterday, I finally got the ok to have sex! I have
been on pelvic rest pretty much my whole pregnancy due to a SCH. I still
have it, but OB gave the ok to resume relations.
Also, I am still tracking my BP and OB stated if I have 2-3 high readings in a row, she will put me on medication. I will also be getting ultrasounds every 4 weeks now because of my BP to monitor baby weight. She stated BP can cause small babies due to restricted blood flow. She is keeping me on rest the remainder of my pregnancy, so I won't be returning to work at this point as I have short term disability that will last until maternity leave and then I will be a stay at home mom.
I have gained a total of 15lbs during pregnancy, but that doesn't include the 50lbs I gained during IVF treatments.
Also, I am still tracking my BP and OB stated if I have 2-3 high readings in a row, she will put me on medication. I will also be getting ultrasounds every 4 weeks now because of my BP to monitor baby weight. She stated BP can cause small babies due to restricted blood flow. She is keeping me on rest the remainder of my pregnancy, so I won't be returning to work at this point as I have short term disability that will last until maternity leave and then I will be a stay at home mom.
I have gained a total of 15lbs during pregnancy, but that doesn't include the 50lbs I gained during IVF treatments.
Saturday, June 30, 2018
This is Ten
My son is TEN today. Double Digits. *10*
Parenting has a way of surprising you. Not just because it is harder and so much more than expected, but also because time isn't linear. I am not a mom that pines for "yesterday", but it doesn't seem possible that I've been a mother for a decade. We are more than halfway through this beautiful, idyllic thing known as childhood. I find myself staring at Tristan searching for the little boy that he once was and I catch my breath when I realize what a kind and sensitive soul that he is becoming.
TEN is ATTITUDE, but tearful apologies. Ten is video games and still coloring pictures for mom. Ten is hard questions about poltics and wanting to know those answers, BUT also having opinions and perspectives. TEN is finally getting to stay up past bedtime. TEN is "MOM, please don't embarass me!".
TEN is little and TEN is big. I think we are entering into the best age of childhood.
(I'm not crying, You're crying!)
And while my pregnancy hormones are getting the better of me right now. I have days when I think I have the whole parenting thing figured out and days where I am like, I can't believe I get the opportunity to do it all over again... thank goodness for Google.
#thisisten #doubledigits
Parenting has a way of surprising you. Not just because it is harder and so much more than expected, but also because time isn't linear. I am not a mom that pines for "yesterday", but it doesn't seem possible that I've been a mother for a decade. We are more than halfway through this beautiful, idyllic thing known as childhood. I find myself staring at Tristan searching for the little boy that he once was and I catch my breath when I realize what a kind and sensitive soul that he is becoming.
TEN is ATTITUDE, but tearful apologies. Ten is video games and still coloring pictures for mom. Ten is hard questions about poltics and wanting to know those answers, BUT also having opinions and perspectives. TEN is finally getting to stay up past bedtime. TEN is "MOM, please don't embarass me!".
TEN is little and TEN is big. I think we are entering into the best age of childhood.
(I'm not crying, You're crying!)
And while my pregnancy hormones are getting the better of me right now. I have days when I think I have the whole parenting thing figured out and days where I am like, I can't believe I get the opportunity to do it all over again... thank goodness for Google.
#thisisten #doubledigits
Thursday, June 28, 2018
Sinus cold and Carpal Tunnel 22+4
I am never sick and I have been fighting a sinus cold with allergies for the past few days. Nothing is worse than being sick while pregnant.
On top of it, my hands have been going numb at night when I am not sleeping on them. They are swollen and tingly. Google tells me this is pregnancy induced carpal tunnel syndrome. Ugh. Pretty sure I am going to need to take off my wedding rings soon due to swelling.
On top of it, my hands have been going numb at night when I am not sleeping on them. They are swollen and tingly. Google tells me this is pregnancy induced carpal tunnel syndrome. Ugh. Pretty sure I am going to need to take off my wedding rings soon due to swelling.
Friday, June 15, 2018
Anatomy U/S at MFM
20+4
I had my anatomy scan yesterday at MFM. An hour of the tech poking and pressing on my belly.
The sch is smaller, but in 5 weeks, it only decreased from 5.6cm to 4.2cm.
Matheson is 13oz and perfect so far! He is measuring right on schedule. The tech couldn't get a visual on a few things like his nose and diaphram as he was quite comforable to be bent in half with his legs and feet over his head. Stubborn little guy wouldn't move! So we have to go back for another u/s in 4 weeks. Fine by me as I get to see him again!
I had my anatomy scan yesterday at MFM. An hour of the tech poking and pressing on my belly.
The sch is smaller, but in 5 weeks, it only decreased from 5.6cm to 4.2cm.
Matheson is 13oz and perfect so far! He is measuring right on schedule. The tech couldn't get a visual on a few things like his nose and diaphram as he was quite comforable to be bent in half with his legs and feet over his head. Stubborn little guy wouldn't move! So we have to go back for another u/s in 4 weeks. Fine by me as I get to see him again!
Sunday, June 10, 2018
Friday, June 8, 2018
Results
My labwork and urine analysis shows no pre-eclampsia! It doesn't mean I am out of the woods just yet as most women develop in the 3rd trimester.
I am keeping a log of my BP twice per day on a wrist monitor.
I am keeping a log of my BP twice per day on a wrist monitor.
Wednesday, June 6, 2018
19week checkup
This pregnancy has been anything, but easy.
My blood pressure was elevated, so bloodwork was done and I am doing a 24 hour urine collection to check for protein in my urine indicative for pre-eclampsia. Dr is keeping me on rest, not bed rest, just no work or strenuous activity and no sex. I feel like I have been on pelvic rest the entire time and I miss my husband! Also, my thyroid was supressed, so meds were changed.
The only good news is I have only gained 8lbs so far! Which I was overweight to begin with thanks to gaining 50lbs going through a year and half of IVF treatments, so I hope I can continue not to gain as much since I can't exercise right now.
My anatomy scan will be done at MFM and hopefully the sch is gone.
Baby boy you are so worth it!
My blood pressure was elevated, so bloodwork was done and I am doing a 24 hour urine collection to check for protein in my urine indicative for pre-eclampsia. Dr is keeping me on rest, not bed rest, just no work or strenuous activity and no sex. I feel like I have been on pelvic rest the entire time and I miss my husband! Also, my thyroid was supressed, so meds were changed.
The only good news is I have only gained 8lbs so far! Which I was overweight to begin with thanks to gaining 50lbs going through a year and half of IVF treatments, so I hope I can continue not to gain as much since I can't exercise right now.
My anatomy scan will be done at MFM and hopefully the sch is gone.
Baby boy you are so worth it!
Tuesday, June 5, 2018
Hospital bag list
19w2d and I am already plotting my hospital bag!
***This list is a work in progress and will update as I research more items to pack.
Checklist
For me:
I am packing everything in a cute weekender bag as I didn't want to bring a suitcase.
Heating pad. I had back labor with my first son and this helped immensely while I was waiting for the anesthiologist!
Robe and nightgown This set from Nordstrom is super cute as it comes with a matching swaddle blanket.
Flip flops for shower
Makeup bag
Toiletries bag with dry shampoo - If I have a vaginal birth like last time, I will use just the dry shampoo as you are in and out of the hospital in 24 hours. However, I will still be prepared if I need to shampoo and blowdry my hair if a c-section occurs.
Sports bra as I will be using formula
Black tank top/ maternity yoga capri pants as backup outfit
Fan to help sleep and for when hot during labor (Small, battery operated that clips to bed)
Chapstick and Hair ties both in toiletries bag
Amazon Fire TV Stick - After being admitted to L&D, I realized the large flat screen TV on the wall only had 3 channels, so this little luxury is a must!
Pads - the ones from the hospital are massive!
10ft iPhone charging cord
Gallon ziplock bag that contains snacks like granola bars, chips, fruit snacks (Also, quarters for vending machine incase this isn't enough!)
Trash bag for any soiled clothes
Eye mask for sleeping as hospital rooms are bright
Washable nursing pads in case of leakage
Cute socks that I doubt I will wear, but packed just in case!
Mom Washer by Fridababy
Placenta kit!
Labor gown - Another must after being admitted to L&D and wearing that ichy hospital gown that was uncomfortable and didn't cover my backside.
For baby:
Coming home outfit/hat/ mittens/ pacifier
Additional newborn sleeper
Swaddle
Baby Shawl - This is the same shawl Duchess Kate wrapped Louis in!
Rainbow ink pad for footprint
Chalkboard/chalk for announcement pic
***This list is a work in progress and will update as I research more items to pack.
Checklist
For me:
I am packing everything in a cute weekender bag as I didn't want to bring a suitcase.
Heating pad. I had back labor with my first son and this helped immensely while I was waiting for the anesthiologist!
Robe and nightgown This set from Nordstrom is super cute as it comes with a matching swaddle blanket.
Flip flops for shower
Makeup bag
Toiletries bag with dry shampoo - If I have a vaginal birth like last time, I will use just the dry shampoo as you are in and out of the hospital in 24 hours. However, I will still be prepared if I need to shampoo and blowdry my hair if a c-section occurs.
Sports bra as I will be using formula
Black tank top/ maternity yoga capri pants as backup outfit
Fan to help sleep and for when hot during labor (Small, battery operated that clips to bed)
Chapstick and Hair ties both in toiletries bag
Amazon Fire TV Stick - After being admitted to L&D, I realized the large flat screen TV on the wall only had 3 channels, so this little luxury is a must!
Pads - the ones from the hospital are massive!
10ft iPhone charging cord
Gallon ziplock bag that contains snacks like granola bars, chips, fruit snacks (Also, quarters for vending machine incase this isn't enough!)
Trash bag for any soiled clothes
Eye mask for sleeping as hospital rooms are bright
Washable nursing pads in case of leakage
Cute socks that I doubt I will wear, but packed just in case!
Mom Washer by Fridababy
Placenta kit!
Labor gown - Another must after being admitted to L&D and wearing that ichy hospital gown that was uncomfortable and didn't cover my backside.
For baby:
Coming home outfit/hat/ mittens/ pacifier
Additional newborn sleeper
Swaddle
Baby Shawl - This is the same shawl Duchess Kate wrapped Louis in!
Rainbow ink pad for footprint
Chalkboard/chalk for announcement pic
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