tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64887494997549096022024-03-05T10:44:48.330+00:00Mumma Walker's 7 Years of Pregnancy by CharlieBeth3rd August 2007 I got my first BFP! 27th July 2014 I had my 4th & final baby. That's a whole lot of pregnancy!MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.comBlogger196125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-17061207056599712052014-07-30T15:08:00.001+01:002014-08-04T11:26:04.677+01:00"Shock" Birth Story!I can't help thinking back to the conversation I had with the consultant on Wednesday, when she asked if I had experienced any signs of labour yet. I'd said that my braxton hicks had got a bit meatier but that's all they were.<br />
<br />
I also think about the 2 hours I spent stuck in traffic the day after coming home from work. 2 hours in 26 degree C heat with no air con. Oh, and the 2.5 hours I spent at soft play with the kids on Friday, also without air con. And how sick I was after. How I had blamed it on heat stroke.<br />
<br />
Saturday had been braxton hicks central, but I carried on as normal, even taking the 3 lads to the cinema. By the time the kids were in bed I was inclined to admit they were probably contractions. Early labour. But given I was 3 weeks till due date it was likely to be a false start, like I had with Georgie. People suggested it was the real deal (you know who you are) but I brushed it aside. 3 weeks early was too early. Even with a slight gush of wetness around 8pm. And the contractions were sooo irregular. In fact at one point they dropped off to 15 mins apart and then stopped all together. So I went to sleep. On the settee, with the fan on, coz it was too damn hot to go upstairs and share a bed with my Hubby.<br />
<br />
It was gone <b>3am</b> on the Sunday morning when I woke again. Contractions were 6mins apart and hurting. I got the Tens machine on and started closely watching my timings and trying to keep calm with some telly. <b>3:45ish</b> I called maternity and told them what was happening. I'd had a bit of show on my last trip to the loo, and the contractions were ramping up. Previous two deliveries were 3 hrs each from contractions being 3 mins apart. They suggested calling back in an hour or if I made significant progress. Less than on hour later I'm getting Hubby out of bed and calling them back. I need to come in!<br />
<br />
<b>4:40</b> and my contractions are 3 mins apart, getting faster, getting damned painful... My mum is on her way to mind the boys, but still an hour away. The hospital are trying to send an ambulance, but THAT is an hour away too. They say they'll call us back. Hubby twigs that he is still just in his boxers and runs up stairs to get dressed, while I moo away my contractions leaning over the settee. I've given up recording them now, but the tens machine tells me they are 1 min 30 apart. I am in AGONY. Then....<br />
<br />
<b><i>BANG - GUSH - OHHH!</i></b><br />
<br />
My waters EXPLODE all over the living room floor (I'll say it again, SO glad we ditched the carpet in favor of laminate)<br />
<br />
Hubby comes racing down stairs - still in his pants - to see what's wrong. Steps on a clippo brick, slips, and lands full body in my waters with a thud! I think "Christ, don't break an arm or a leg NOW!" We laugh at this now....<br />
<br />
Feeble attempts at mopping up include two nappy clothes, and all the freshly laundered towels and blankets Hubby had dealt with that day (sorry Babe).<br />
<br />
Contractions ease for a moment, and Hubby is on the phone with the ambulance team who are talking him through looking after me while they are trying to get to us. They keep asking him if he can see or feel the baby yet. But he can't. Then a taxi arrives... It's been sent for me by the hospital. Hubby chucks my bags in, helps me in, kisses me goodbye and goes to wait for my mum to arrive so he can follow me up.<br />
<br />
It's only 8 mins from my house to maternity on a clear run. It's only <b>5:30ish am</b> so it's clear. My tens machine is on maximum and constant. About 1/4 of the way there I have another contraction but this one feels odd. Like something started to descend. I try not to think about it. I'm on my way to the hospital, they'll sort everything. Driver pulls up outside the maternity doors and tries to help me out. A nano second later a community midwife pulls up, dives out if her car and helps. She had arrived at my house 2 mins after I'd left, and chased us all the way to the hospital. I'm sat in a wheel chair, crying with pain, and wheeled to delivery. It's <b>5:45 am.</b><br />
<br />
They take one look at me, lent over the bed. I hear "cord prolapse", "8cm", "trace" and "distress". Then two words I dread. "Emergency section". But I agree instantly. Save my baby! I'm chucked on the bed. Face down on the mattress, backside high in the air. Midwife dives in, one hand on baby's head pushing it back, the other holding the cord out of the way. I am wheeled like this into theatre. It takes seconds, but when I get there I'm 10cm! Flipped on my back, feet in stirrups. The fastest, and therefore safest, way to get baby out now is forceps. I've had no pain releaf yet. I beg for some. Anything. Knock me out! They can't knock me out, I NEED to push. All I have time for is gas. I suck that gas like my life depends on it. My baby's life DOES! I'm terrified! I know this baby is 9 1/2 lb. I know I crown slowly. I don't want him to die because I can't push.<br />
<br />
I pushed! With everything I had, and suddenly some more from nowhere. Two contractions and he was here. Not breathing... But here. <b>6:04 am.</b><br />
<br />
They show me my baby and rush him to resus. Moments later he's breathing, but his lungs are wet so I get a quick cuddle and kiss before he's taken to SCBU. They need to monitor him for up to 4 hours.<br />
<br />
I ask for my phone, call Hubby. He's JUST pulled into the car park. "Baby's here" I choke down the phone. Within seconds he's by my side. The situation is explained to him. We go back to delivery and we wait.<br />
<br />
We get our baby back just 2 hours later. Fit. Well. Healthy. If a little bruised from the forceps.<br />
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<b>9lb 6oz, and exactly 3 weeks early on 27/07/14.</b></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Welcome to the world, Alfred James Walker. You are so loved already!</b></div>
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<br />MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-12857600902292514632014-07-23T20:44:00.000+01:002014-08-04T11:25:52.954+01:00Induction Date!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Oooh yeah! I got my induction date!<br />
<br />
Mark it in your diary folks, I'm booked in for August 5th 2014!<br />
<br />
Today went really well all round really. I had been dreading it since I had the kids last day at school & nursery to deal with, Tom to take to the Clinic with me, and the prospect of no nearby parking and awful heat to contend with.<br />
<br />
But Tom behaved, we found a good parking space, and escaped the GD Clinic in time to collect Jack & Georgie.<br />
<br />
Tom liked seeing the Baby on the "TV", although Bean looks nothing like a baby on the scan at this stage, far too big for a good profile shot etc. But he understood that what we was seeing was bits of baby's body, heart beat etc.<br />
<br />
Just for the record, the estimated weight of baby is currently 4333g or 9 1/2 lb. so I'm now saying Bean will be a shade over 10lb at birth! Any one else fancy taking a guess??<br />
<br />
So... Assuming that I don't spontaneously go into labour BEFORE the 5th, I'll be taking the kids down to my Mum's on the Sunday afternoon, getting them settled and into bed for the night before coming home. Having a very quiet and relaxed Monday. Then driving up to the hospital on Tuesday morning and hoping they don't get a "rush on" like when I had Georgie. Me and Hubby are going to discuss whether he comes with me or not, as we know from experience that inductions can take a long time. We'd both prefer to not both be sat there waiting because he fidgets when he's bored and that drives me insane! And I feel like I can't nap because then he'll have no company so I get tired and grouchy which drives him nuts. It's better if I'm there on my own, reading my book and chilling, and then call him when stuff starts to happen. He'll probably come with me while I get settled (and help carry my bags, lol) and then go until I call him. This way we can both relax and reserve our strength for the actual labour. The hospital is less than 10 mins from home in a taxi, and probably less from Hubby's work. Almost as quick to walk!<br />
<br />
Eek! Soooo excited now!<br />
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I've got work tomorrow, and up to 3 days in next week to keep my mind occupied. The kids are home now and the weather promises to stay good so I can foresee trips to parks (where I can sit in the shade and watch them play). Good times ahead!MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-3105062334247831902014-07-17T20:30:00.000+01:002014-08-04T11:25:44.824+01:00"1 month to due date" update!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<h3>
Time is marching!</h3>
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<ul>
<li>It's one month to my due date!</li>
<li>Three weeks OR LESS until my (probable) induction!</li>
<li>Two weeks from today I'll have finished work.</li>
<li>And it's just under one week until the kids finish school & nursery for the summer.</li>
</ul>
<br />
We're pretty much sorted for baby. I have washed all my neutral coloured baby clothes, and they are in baby's drawers ready to be used. Tomorrow I'm planning to wash either the coloured stuff or the cloth nappies. I printed off my birth plan today while I was at work and it is now safely tucked away with my Green Notes.<br />
<br />
I'm getting loads of Braxton Hicks now. I've had them a lot this pregnancy, and now they are getting that bit more intense. It's definitely just BH though - as I have to keep pointing out to Hubby who gets twitchy when I mention them.<br />
<br />
I think I have the swollen feet sussed! Oh, don't get me wrong, they are still swelling up, but not as badly. It seems it's the way I've been sitting which has caused the problems because it's interfered with my circulation. If it sit with bended legs for any amount of time I swell up. If I keep them straight they're loads better!<br />
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Unfortunately working out how to get comfortable at night so I can sleep better hasn't been so easy to figure out. My perpetual tiredness is taking it's toll. I am becoming more and more useless! I'm half zombified at work, working at a serious go slow despite all my best efforts to get my job done. The kids are stunned to find me anywhere other than sprawled on the settee.<br />
<br />
And I have developed a case of the Dropsies. I smashed a drinking glass this evening. It rolled off the settee when I tried to stretch out my leg (my foot was getting fat) and shattered into a billion tiny bits on the floor. Luckily Hubby was there to roll his eyes and clear it up or I would have been trapped there! Too fat to see where my feet are, let alone razor sharp shards of glass. I'll be drinking out of plastic bottles from now on!<br />
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<b>I'm just about ready for baby to come now. I am considered "term" in 10 days time. Once I hit that milestone I'm good to go!</b><br />
<br />MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-51072466713394861262014-07-12T11:55:00.001+01:002014-08-04T11:25:39.024+01:00Feet Up & Fed Up!<br />
<h3>
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Brace yourself for a moaning post. I'm a bit that way out today.</h3>
<b>Highlights: Cankles, Demanding Kids, and Sleep Deprivation.</b><br />
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I have not been able to sleep the last few nights. A combination of being way too hot, and way too big is making getting comfortable pretty much impossible. I'm going to bed at a sensible time and sleep until about 1ish. Then I'm tossing and turning until up to 3.30 before I finally conk out again, only to be woken by the kids at any time from 5.30 onwards.<br />
<br />
So you can imagine I'm not feeling my best. I've tried to nap in the day but as I'm generally either at work or I have the kids it's not very do-able. And when I do manage to nap, I sleep even worse at night.<br />
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My feet and legs are the main cause of my unhappiness at the moment though. I'm used to swelling up in the last few weeks of my pregnancy, but I've never suffered like this before. Then again, I've never had a summer baby before. My feet, ankles and calves are MASSIVE! I try all sorts to reduce to the swelling, and I can get it down for periods, but it keeps coming back. I'm drinking plenty of water, I soak my feet in Epsom salts in the evening, I keep them elevated above my heart when I can... but again, I have a job and a family to tend to so I struggle to enough of anything to keep the swelling down all the time.<br />
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There are still at least 3 weeks to go. It's only a week and a half until the kids finish school and nursery. Frankly, I am dreading the time between now and the baby coming because I am already exhausted and short tempered. I can't see myself feeling any better any time soon. I live for the few hours a week when I'm home alone or with just one of the kids - which is nice and quiet and easy. The thought of all 3 of my little darlings 24/7 while sleep deprived, hormonal, and hurting from the swelling in my legs and feet.... It is not soothing.<br />
<br />
I keep smiling in public! I try not to whine too much. My poor Hubby is very much aware of how much I am suffering, and I can only sing his praises for not only putting up with my self pity but also stepping up to sort out the kids and the housework. But I can see the strain is taking it's toll on him too.<br />
<br />
<b>This time next month.... Baby Bean should be here! </b>- We keep telling our selves this. I'm always much better once the baby has arrived and I am feeling more mobile!<br />
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I am starting to wash some of the 0-3 month baby clothes today though, which is making me a little happier! I should be able to start marking off the last few jobs on my Before Baby list in the next few days.MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-29474172905499013412014-07-07T14:00:00.000+01:002014-08-04T11:25:30.960+01:00Oops! I freaked out the Hubby!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuYGID94KNrDZqYYz1pAWEJR2S6PxDsM3VjWN2EdO45UvkKThuBlYpSTlWhaVGlACNF7aUvFiOK1Cq3acFIk7NkBNcM_4VamLKRYkyCJApoJ42Y_AwTQ-pOv3sFpMpjNfthF91hzB_bALx/s1600/BabyWeightDebate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuYGID94KNrDZqYYz1pAWEJR2S6PxDsM3VjWN2EdO45UvkKThuBlYpSTlWhaVGlACNF7aUvFiOK1Cq3acFIk7NkBNcM_4VamLKRYkyCJApoJ42Y_AwTQ-pOv3sFpMpjNfthF91hzB_bALx/s1600/BabyWeightDebate.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a>I really didn't mean to frighten him. I was only thinking out loud about how I expect this baby to be big, at least as big as Jack. And that I know it's going to hurt! I tore with all three of my boys, even with an episiotomy. I fully expect it to happen again, I am mentally prepared for it. Or at least as much as I can be. It is, in my opinion, the worst part of child birth - the crowning and tearing. I warned him I would probably swear and be a bit nasty at that point, but only because people tend to lash out at the ones they love the most in those circumstances.<br />
<br />
My belly seems so much bigger this time round. My belly button does pop out now by evening. It might be because baby lies differently. It might be because baby IS that much bigger. I know I'm struggling to breathe if I do anything strenuous because my innards are pushing into my lungs to make room for baby. I have wondered how I'll get on in labour this time if I can't breath well!<br />
<br />
This baby is going to be BIG. We all know that. All my babies have been big. And I've always coped just fine. I don't see why I wouldn't this time round. Buy maybe I should keep my rambling mind to my self (or at least to the blog & forums), because now he's worried about me being in extreme pain, or dying because I can't breathe or tear too badly.<br />
<br />
<h3>
Meantime I thought I would have a look at how likely it is actually going to be that Bean will break my former record.</h3>
<br />
This is what Fertility Friend says about an average baby's weight at 34 weeks - which is where I am right now:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.799999237060547px;">Your baby now measures about 20.25 inches (45cm) in total length and weighs around 5.5 lbs (2550g). Crown to rump measurement is about 13.2 inches (33cm).</span></blockquote>
<br />
OK. Last week - week 33 - when I had my scan, this is what the EFW (estimated foetal weight) of Baby Bean is: 2943g, or just under 6.5 lbs.<br />
<br />
It's times like this I WISH I still had my green notes from my previous pregnancies, but the hospital still have them. I can request them, but at a cost (admin only) and at least a 40 day wait. Well.... I'll have HAD Bean by then so there's little point.<br />
<br />
I do have my blog though, so I did a little research back over my own posts.<br />
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<h3>
Jack: <a href="http://blog2.family-walker.co.uk/2008/02/longest-appointment-ever.html" target="_blank">Feb 5th 2008 (32 weeks)</a></h3>
I don't have the exact measurement, but the growth chart has him marks at just under 2000g (under 4.5 lb) and exactly on the 50th centile (i.e. average)<br />
He was 9lb 13oz born at 38+2 weeks<br />
<br />
<h3>
Tom: <a href="http://blog2.family-walker.co.uk/2010/05/3rd-growth-scan.html" target="_blank">May 19th 2010 (37 weeks)</a></h3>
I recorded a sudden growth making baby 8 lb 10 oz.<br />
4 weeks earlier at 33 weeks baby had measured just over 5lb / 2373g.<br />
He was 9lb 8oz at 39+4 weeks<br />
<br />
<h3>
George: <a href="http://blog2.family-walker.co.uk/2012/03/37-week-growth-scan-gd-clinic.html" target="_blank">March 22nd 2012 (37 weeks)</a></h3>
<div>
My scan had baby measuring 3423g / 7lb 7oz+</div>
<div>
For some reason I didn't record the weight at my 33 weeks scan, although I did have one. </div>
<div>
He was 9lb 9oz at 39+6.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
So what do I think baby Bean is going to be like? </h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Who knows! OK, currently baby is estimated to be considerably bigger than Jack was, and Jack was my biggest baby. But Tom also measured bigger than Jack and he was my smallest baby, born closer to his due date too. I guess it's easy to forget that these weights are only ESTIMATES based on the scans I'm having, and are not set in stone. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My gut instinct is this baby will be over 9.5lbs just like all three of my others. I suspect it will be bigger than Tom & George. But bigger than Jack.....? I'm not convinced. I hope not! But I'll cope either way.</div>
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MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-92025570331220268592014-07-04T08:23:00.001+01:002014-08-04T11:25:25.410+01:00GD Clinic, Scan, NO DATE!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ooo! An underwear shot! You won't find many of those of me floating about.
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Excuse the baby's crib in the back ground packed full of stuff like the baby bath, cloth nappies, slings etc. And the only part-made bed!</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This is my 33 week bump. Tight as a flipping drum! Massive. My belly button is threatening to pop. If I've had a big dinner it does peek out! Much to my Hubby's delight. He's always wanted my belly button to pop out in pregnancy! </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
My feet keep swelling up. My legs too. Nothing alarming, it's just so flipping hot. So long as I keep drinking plenty of water and spend the evening with my feet elevated it's not so bad. </div>
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I was back at the GD clinic yesterday.... It wasn't great. Baby is now approx 2943g (6.5lb) This is my rant on the forum when I got home:</div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Well that's 3+ hrs of my life I'll never get back :( Today's entire hospital visit was gastly, starting with a total inability to get a parking space. Over half an hour cruising the hosp car park and overflow, then a number of backup spots, gave me nothing. Wound up parking in town and walking (up hill, sulk!) for 15mins to get there. I arrived just in time. My backside had just hit the seat in the waiting room and I was called for my scan. I thought "this is ok, I might be out in half an hour at this rate" but noooo.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Baby wouldn't behave for the scan, refused to stop moving. Scan is likely inaccurate. But generally following the same pattern so not too worried. </span> </blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Next waiting room was packed, but I got seen by the midwife and consultant quickly. BP good (despite running through town). But then the consultant informed me that she would NOT be giving me an induction date today. I need to come back I'm 3 more weeks when I am 36 weeks along. 2 weeks before my "probable" induction....... Probable??? Trying not to dwell on that word. </span> </blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Back to the waiting room. Then ushered into another consulting room, where I waited for an hour and a half! I caught the MWs eye a couple if times and she assured me I hadn't been forgotten. But still I'm waiting. And waiting. Eventually the GD doc turns up, hands me my next scan apt - for 5 mins after I'm due to pick my kids up from the last day of school for the summer holidays - comments on my blood sugars being perfect but I'm still having a big baby, wonders aloud why (BECAUSE I EFFING WELL DO!) and leaves. I get the MWs attention again and beg for a better appointment time, giving her sound reason (my kids will be hyper because it's the last day, and cause mayhem being stuck in waiting rooms all afternoon) Thankfully she switches me to 1:30, which is better, but still tight between picking up one kid and the other two. Just pray I don't get held up like today! She tests my pee, gives me a prescription, and lets me leave. </span></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Only 10 mins back to the car since it's down hill, but I was knackered, thirsty, and hacked off. All I wanted was a date! And now I am less sure of what's going on, not more!</span></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">No pic this time. Baby is well down and the wee face is all hidden so there didn't seem much point.</span></blockquote>
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I'm a bit more relaxed (well, resigned really) to the total lack of information and planning. I'm still really mad that the refusal to give me a date now means I cannot book my kids into the school's summer club, as school will be over by the time I get a date so booking & paying will be impossible. But there is nothing I can do about it. I'll have to make it up to the boys with plenty of play-dates with their school & nursery friends instead.<br />
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Oh well. Keep looking forwards! 3 weeks time and the kids will have finished school and baby will be immanent - one way or another!</div>
<br />MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-10333277624012436122014-06-28T09:41:00.000+01:002014-08-04T11:25:19.751+01:00The "Before Baby List"<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpgKgcrm6Ar8krWDh5yeRoLr7CfS5TUWKb8haeQR9uorbcuKAGQ2ZOLjaMf3pjyaboVXPfsJaEu25s63J_JQtA-clSKI-JwnxgCSzj1jVxXsfLbC6JlpBwd0pS0dYBZGAftiQGUa_LIEPj/s1600/FullList-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpgKgcrm6Ar8krWDh5yeRoLr7CfS5TUWKb8haeQR9uorbcuKAGQ2ZOLjaMf3pjyaboVXPfsJaEu25s63J_JQtA-clSKI-JwnxgCSzj1jVxXsfLbC6JlpBwd0pS0dYBZGAftiQGUa_LIEPj/s1600/FullList-3.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a>I've been whittling away at the "<a href="http://blog2.family-walker.co.uk/search/label/Before%20Baby%20List" target="_blank">Before Baby List</a>" that Hubby and I knocked up a few weeks ago. There are only 3 things left on the list now! I am very happy about this!<br />
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I managed to get the crib up a couple of weeks ago, the mattresses for that and the moses basket arrived yesterday (along with the change mat that says "Keep Calm and Change Me Bum", Yay!)<br />
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This morning I had a spurt of energy and finally got round to fitting the nicely washed and dried seat covers onto the Baby Car Seat. I've had to rearrange where all the kids will sit in the car though. I had planned for Baby to be in the middle with Tom & Georgie either side and Jack either in the 3rd row or the front seat (depending on if Hubby was with us or not). But I couldn't get the seatbelt to wrap round the back of the Baby Seat which meant that it wouldn't be safe. After 15 mins or so of playing musical chairs I managed to get it all sorted though, and honestly I think this is better and safer the way it's done now! So that's all good!<br />
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The nappy sanitizer and replacement nets have been here for a while, but I hadn't got round to reclaiming the nappy bucket from the cellar until this morning. I had visions of it being full of dead spiders and other such yuckiness after spending a year down there, but I was very pleasantly surprised! The lockable lid had stayed on and only the outside of the bucket needed a quick clean round. I will run some sanitizer through it before we start to use it but I'm thinking that's a job for the last day or two before I go in for my induction.<br />
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So now there are only 3 jobs left. One is buying the bouncy seat - and my Mum wants to do that. The other two jobs are the washing and sorting of Baby's clothes and cloth nappies. With still 5 weeks to go I don't see much of a problem with that!<br />
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Happy Mummy!MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-34260427998049343922014-06-24T13:13:00.001+01:002014-08-04T11:25:14.166+01:00Helping my body cope with Early Induction<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuvppJF2mFJQt7u8slDl7PKxofy26XsnSy0yG-AkQvW8cVCY3MBAjvEhdE9isS-ULcI3Qfix-GbMKOsjg1xnhyphenhyphen8-Tt-aD7RAEsNubvA6wFVA7V5TmFEDx0zY9ZyrbMsWR7OhvTRTGFkvsv/s1600/induction.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuvppJF2mFJQt7u8slDl7PKxofy26XsnSy0yG-AkQvW8cVCY3MBAjvEhdE9isS-ULcI3Qfix-GbMKOsjg1xnhyphenhyphen8-Tt-aD7RAEsNubvA6wFVA7V5TmFEDx0zY9ZyrbMsWR7OhvTRTGFkvsv/s1600/induction.png" height="640" width="436" /></a><br />
With most of the baby preps done now, save for washing the clothes and nappies, I'm focusing on what I need to do to help my body be ready for the induction. It's another week yet before my next GD appointment but I am (as ever) hopeful that they will narrow down that induction date from "38 weeks ish" to an actual appointment. Either way I have about 6 weeks to go to my induction and I really really want to avoid being put on the drip or having a c-section. That means employing what ever methods are at my disposal to get my bits ready!<br />
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There is a wealth of information on the internet on "<a href="https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=preparing+for+induction&oq=prepareing+for+i&aqs=chrome.4.69i57j0l5.10826j0j4&sourceid=chrome&es_sm=122&ie=UTF-8" target="_blank">preparing for induction</a>" and "<a href="http://how%20to%20ripen%20your%20cervix%20for%20labor/" target="_blank">how to ripen your cervix for labour</a>". I have read sooo much I've actually made my eyes itch! However, it's usually the same things that come up time and time again.<br />
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<b>Sex... </b><br />
Yup. Sex. Because sperm contains prostaglandins which can help ripen the cervix, and female orgasm releases oxytocin which is known as the "labour hormone". This one is a bit tricky for us though, and not just because of the Bump. Hubby is squeamish about pregnant sex (he worries about squashing baby and gets freaked out by baby kicking during "the deed"), and it is flipping HOT this summer! Plus, with 3 kids already, finding the energy and time while pregnant in the summer heat is hardly easy. Still.... I'm trying to talk him round!<br />
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<b>Evening Primrose Oil</b><br />
This clever little supplement mimics prostaglandin and helps to ripen the cervix. You can taking it orally and/or internally from 36 weeks. I've already started taking it orally as that is 4 weeks before due date and I am being induced 2 weeks before my due date. I used it orally and internally when I had my induction last time. It went well. People's recommendations for dosages vary so I'd suggest <a href="https://www.google.co.uk/search?q=EPO+and+birth&oq=EPO&aqs=chrome.1.69i57j69i59j0l4.6857j0j9&sourceid=chrome&es_sm=122&ie=UTF-8" target="_blank">doing your own research</a> and speak to your own care givers.<br />
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<b>Raspberry Leaf</b><br />
This one is easy if you like fruit or herbal teas. If you don't you can get tablets instead. I like the tea! Hot or cold like iced tea. It's pretty special stuff (<a href="http://www.pregnancy.com.au/resources/topics-of-interest/pregnancy/raspberry-leaf.shtml" target="_blank">check out this link</a>) but when it comes down to preparing for this induction my selling point is it's ability to help strengthen the uterus and make the 2nd stage (pushing part) of labour quicker and easier. It also helps with after pains and milk supply. I used this with all but my first pregnancy and found my births much easier, and the after pains nothing like as bad as expected.<br />
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<b>Eating Dates</b><br />
Seriously. Just 6 a day for the last 4 weeks of pregnancy can have a beneficial effect. This isn't like the "eat pineapple" myth (where you'd need to eat 3-5 WHOLE pineapples inc the core to have any effect at all) or "eat spicy food" theory (which works only by upsetting your belly and bowels), this has a study behind it. It's dry reading, but<a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21280989" target="_blank"> here if you want to have a look</a>. The gist of it is that it can help to dilate your cervix, and reduce the need for prostin/oxytocin, therefore reducing the latent and 1st stage of labour. I.E. reduce the need / use of the pessaries etc used to induce.<br />
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<b>Nipple Stimulation</b><br />
This also releases oxytocin. I'm going to give this another go. I've tried it in the past but found it too time consuming. I've read that in order for it to work it has be constant from anywhere from <a href="http://www.babycentre.co.uk/x1048142/can-nipple-stimulation-bring-on-labour" target="_blank">15 mins per nipple for an hour</a> . I simply couldn't be bothered haha! It's been suggested that using a breast pump can make that easier, but mine are manual so it didn't do much to ease my boredom. It just started to hurt my nips. Ideally though you would stimulate one until you start to feel tightenings, then switch to the other side. I've also read a ideal way of doing this is to "borrow" someone else's new born baby and have them latch on. I can't see that happening much in this society though even if you were lucky enough to know a new mum well enough to consider asking. I may well try the breast pumps again the day before my induction though. The kids will be at my Mum's so I can get my boobs out without them wandering over to ask why and prod them!<br />
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Unlike my 2nd and 3rd pregnancies I am pretty much resigned to the fact that I am going to be induced. After going through an induction with my 3rd baby I am more confident that having an induction doesn't HAVE to be awful. To my mind "awful" would be having to go on the drip and have instant back-to-back contractions requiring an epidural to cope with, or having to have a c-section because the birth hasn't progressed well and baby is in danger. I want to experience the birth! Not be knocked out or completely numb. If I can encourage my body to be ready to go into labour with nothing more than the pessaries I will be perfectly happy.MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-34378223239086888942014-06-20T11:23:00.000+01:002014-08-04T11:25:05.757+01:00Summer Pregnancy - Phew!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkw37wTo9sCfnQ3SyuQlK6VONF4cNR5mlY28Y6CYuB7eRjiIYwgAtW80iuuQlGZcG7vdZXrAJA3xv4Vuf9Ahs1UoADSVQ21BwSaA95l4fDsi1tcjMUzWwP2uYqjo88Ya8g8IBsPeXqqFBq/s1600/summer.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkw37wTo9sCfnQ3SyuQlK6VONF4cNR5mlY28Y6CYuB7eRjiIYwgAtW80iuuQlGZcG7vdZXrAJA3xv4Vuf9Ahs1UoADSVQ21BwSaA95l4fDsi1tcjMUzWwP2uYqjo88Ya8g8IBsPeXqqFBq/s1600/summer.png" height="320" width="320" /></a>How's idea was it to have a Summer Baby?! Seriously, I didn't think this through, haha. My Spring Babies were a MUCH better idea!<br />
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I've had a quiet few days as far as the pregnancy blogging goes. Mainly because it's sooo bloomin' hot! By the time the kids are in bed all I can do is flop on the settee or bed and day-dream about snow flurries!<br />
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I was an August Baby too, my Mum said she wondered how I coped with this heat. The summer I was born was a soggy one but she said the days that were hot she could do nothing but sprawl out, especially if she's been at work all day! In truth I'm not really "coping" as much as just "getting through".<br />
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I'm not really complaining about the weather. It's absolutely gorgeous at the moment. Which means that come the Summer Holidays it will probably rain every day! I need to make the most of the sunshine while it's here! So I'm doing my best not to whine and moan and grumble about my swollen feet, inability to keep cool or get comfortable, or the endless nights of broken sleep due to being so horrifically stuffy and massive. You get the idea though, right?<br />
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In truth, as much as I dream of sitting on my backside doing nothing but laze in the shade, I'm finding that staying at least a bit active is helping. It's the days that I am sat in the office that I struggle the most now that the temperature has cranked up. The job is fine, but sitting all day is causing my sciatica to worsen, and also makes my hips seize up so that when I do try to walk I end up hobbling. The days that I have been at home, playing with the kids, going to the park, pottering about the house, these are the days that I cope better with the heat. But also the days I wind up in bed at. 7:30!<br />
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I still maintain that I need to keep going to work to preserve my sanity! And I'm certainly not looking to pack in early. Instead I'm browsing the internet for stretches etc to help with my sciatica, and upsetting my manager by crawling around under desks faffing about with cables (because it seems to have stretched the bits that hurt and stopped them hurting!)<br />
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<br />MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-45699287837582898052014-06-11T16:53:00.000+01:002014-08-04T11:24:35.217+01:00Best GD Clinic EVER!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXigEH9XY-Pa_3HC0PCLHJSKhnLuVTIhec-RzZSXiKrla8lfzL-lkO8sg7GEspUPJIknPEv7ogT8_9j-7H7NwVl4odj9Vftrxk93blaIGE0NcO1GsCQOpqDVAPvXwa2H5Ga4wCgkK7VTCd/s1600/BEAN30w-3.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXigEH9XY-Pa_3HC0PCLHJSKhnLuVTIhec-RzZSXiKrla8lfzL-lkO8sg7GEspUPJIknPEv7ogT8_9j-7H7NwVl4odj9Vftrxk93blaIGE0NcO1GsCQOpqDVAPvXwa2H5Ga4wCgkK7VTCd/s1600/BEAN30w-3.png" height="320" width="266" /></a></div>
I think this must the first time in 3 pregnancies I have come out of a GD clinic without a single complaint. In fact I am PRAISING them today!<br />
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Scan went really well. Bean is still measuring big, but not scary big, just the usual "one of my babies" big. In fact when I saw the consultant she said to me that she would worry if my baby WASN'T big, and that while the growth charts are called "personalised" they do not in fact take into account a woman's previous babies. And this baby was bob on for one of mine.<br />
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Haven't I been saying this all along?<br />
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My BP is normal. My bloods are normal. No need to see the dietitian. No sign of that registrar coming to see me, and no mention AT ALL of metformin!<br />
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I mentioned about the fuss I have had with my prescription for the UTI I got, the one Asda Pharmacy "couldn't find" then "didn't have in stock" and then "couldn't full-fill because it's been discontinued" since I was expected to do another pee sample. The consultant was fuming! She said the pharmacist should not have sent me away with nothing, that they are obligated to give me something, and that what they should have done was call my GP (who issued the prescription) and discuss it with them in order to get a different brand they COULD supply. She then arranged for me to have a sample tested then and there and a new prescription for the hospital pharmacy to fill. Which they have.<br />
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But the best bit of the clinic? It was when she said these words to me: "We will definitely induce you at 38 weeks. Ish."<br />
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Ish..... definitely 38 weeks ISH? *roll eyes* Well, at least I can say to my mum now to keep the first full week in August open for child minding duty. Since both my previous inductions were booked in for Tuesdays we're wondering if maybe Tuesday 5th Aug might be THE DAY! I'm back at the clinic in 3 weeks, maybe THEN I will get an actual date!MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-51645686153989523262014-06-10T16:19:00.000+01:002014-08-04T11:24:24.864+01:00Shopping spree!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguB3rhE6PceLv_k0txAiTi6uYtQedfjC1MGpj3jDR7KVkHzjE5SAVE1qO9601wLlEQ8DB3wrueYsVczQ1y8z6CqqUjexbR5uB6LMvoLqVvKfpsjYlrSMY3UUFXf4a7SRESihHl9B_eAxTn/s1600/miosoft-(bonbon).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguB3rhE6PceLv_k0txAiTi6uYtQedfjC1MGpj3jDR7KVkHzjE5SAVE1qO9601wLlEQ8DB3wrueYsVczQ1y8z6CqqUjexbR5uB6LMvoLqVvKfpsjYlrSMY3UUFXf4a7SRESihHl9B_eAxTn/s1600/miosoft-(bonbon).jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a>Ha! Can you tell I got some money in my bank account today???<br />
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I have bought some new first size nappy covers to replace some of the older tatty ones we had, we opted against the MioSolo all-in-ones in the end as they aren't tumble drier safe and we NEED to get things wash and dried quickly in this family. I have bought more MioSoft covers though coz I simply LOVE the <a href="http://www.bambinomio.com/en/" target="_blank">Bambino Mio</a> brand, and some new nets to go in the nappy bucket. They should arrive in a couple of days. I've got a new Mio wet nappy bag too since we lost the old one on a trip out somewhere and it was a great thing to have with cloth nappies on days out.<br />
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I have also found a couple of baby wraps / slings which work the same way as my beloved Moby wrap - but for a fraction of the price as they are not branded. I've ordered a red one and a purple one. I should always have a clean one now!<br />
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And I have ordered some Raspberry Leaf Tea and Evening Primrose Oil to assist in getting my "bits" ready for this induction I'm going to be having at some point. I have no idea how much of what people say is true, but every little helps. I certainly had less drugs during, and fewer stitches after, the two births where I have used <a href="http://www.pregnancy.com.au/resources/topics-of-interest/pregnancy/raspberry-leaf.shtml" target="_blank">RLT</a> & <a href="http://www.birthingnaturally.net/cn/natural/primrose.html" target="_blank">EPO</a>. Since Bean is likely to be a whopper I'm going to give it another shot.<br />
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I get my proper wages though at the end of the week. I might just have to splash out of that Moses basket cover & liner set I've pinned from eBay, and the mattresses for the cot & crib, and maybe even the bouncy chair.... Then we should be pretty much set for pre-baby purchases. Anything else can wait a few months after baby is here (mattress for cotbed, new cushion & cover for the high chair etc). All I'll have left to do is wash and sort the nappies and baby clothes!<br />
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I am soooooooooo looking forward to getting my stash of baby clothes out again!MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-25439443101856048672014-06-08T19:00:00.000+01:002014-08-04T11:24:17.541+01:00Weight Gain<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHV0uC_hXtb2BW7NbT51JUPbjTKKaeANJZ3fs4KKCmqrywy9zTJ7afGCQUF83ksDvl3gOqc_HGvBwHmryqpcnzpMrBJHcvpLvW5uGb1AqJskUr-glLVzS-Ir7Ce8bxyh8DzO48f9UX3KQ1/s1600/41e1dbed7f46f6534474124b93af877541.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHV0uC_hXtb2BW7NbT51JUPbjTKKaeANJZ3fs4KKCmqrywy9zTJ7afGCQUF83ksDvl3gOqc_HGvBwHmryqpcnzpMrBJHcvpLvW5uGb1AqJskUr-glLVzS-Ir7Ce8bxyh8DzO48f9UX3KQ1/s1600/41e1dbed7f46f6534474124b93af877541.png" height="280" width="400" /></a>So this weekend, as I am 30 weeks and in the Home Straight, I thought I would jump on the ol' Wii Fit and see how much weight I have gained.<br />
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Someone with my high BMI should expect to gain up to 20lb throughout the pregnancy. I have gained 18lb. Not too bad, I think. These things are based on the average baby weight of 7.4lb too and my baby will be 9lb+.<br />
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Now, I know that if I tell the at the GD clinic on Wed that I have gained 18lb they will tut and shake their heads and use it as an excuse to tell me off, try to push me into taking Metformin and so on and so forth. But I am quite happy with it. I know I have eaten sensibly for the most part, celebrations excepted. I am also aware that things like my knickers, and other stuff that doesn't go on my belly or boobs, are getting slack not tight.<br />
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Take a look at this site <a href="http://www.bellybelly.com.au/pregnancy/pregnancy-weight-gain#.U5Q0Otq9KSN" target="_blank">here</a>. It's Australian rather than UK but the a average baby size is the same and I can't honestly see much else being that different. If you scroll down to the bit that shows you roughly what pregnancy-weight-gain is made up of, and how much. There's around 20lb that isn't even baby. So add a 9lb+ baby to that and yeah! High BMI or not, I'm happy. Even with 8-10 weeks to go. I won't lose any sleep over going over 20lb either, because I know this baby is big. I might even get a hint of how big at this baby is at my scan, and then I can work out the true acceptable weight gain for ME.MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-88919545347480990812014-06-07T12:04:00.001+01:002014-08-04T11:24:05.977+01:00Looking at things for Baby<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-pin-board-width="600" data-pin-do="embedBoard" data-pin-scale-height="320" data-pin-scale-width="80" href="http://www.pinterest.com/CharlieBeth79/baby-buys/">Follow CharlieBeth (Mumma) Walker's board Baby Buys on Pinterest.</a></div>
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Oooohh! I have been window shopping!</b><br />
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There are only a handful of things we need for this baby, but quite a few more that I would <b>like </b>to have too! Like a second <a href="http://www.mobywrap.com/s.nl/sc.16/.f?entityName=Moss" target="_blank">Moby Wrap</a> <-- this is the one I already have! And I quite fancy upgrading the Bambino Mio cloth nappies we have, has some of the covers are getting a bit worn after 3 babies! Now I have seen the <a href="http://www.bambinomio.com/en/our-products/miosolo-all-in-one" target="_blank">MioSolo</a>, which is their new all-in-one product, and I'm thinking I might buy a few of those as they are (allegedly) from birth to potty training, so while they look expensive to start with they would actually work out really cheap. I'm not planning on replacing the whole lot, but they would make a good addition and I can ditch the more worn nappy covers I have.<br />
<br />
I'm 30 weeks tomorrow, which mean I have a MAXIMUM of 70 days before I get to meet Baby Bean. Just 10 weeks. And, depending on how these growth scans go, it could be as little as 8 weeks!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilmDtoDNuGPTsOOa04C69myR0H5ZgybL5SmJBs0ordywWYOfyMC169Cwg93UmI7-_4lHgA5SH1jEVI4k6RWekH9mCmnW3W67XCpIm0_V_NOsfcYG9vJDfH3a50QBAZrajz9ry1dqpdy9Lj/s1600/FullList-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilmDtoDNuGPTsOOa04C69myR0H5ZgybL5SmJBs0ordywWYOfyMC169Cwg93UmI7-_4lHgA5SH1jEVI4k6RWekH9mCmnW3W67XCpIm0_V_NOsfcYG9vJDfH3a50QBAZrajz9ry1dqpdy9Lj/s1600/FullList-2.jpg" height="400" width="285" /></a></div>
<b>8 weeks isn't very long at all.</b><br />
<br />
Last weekend I wrote a list of thing to do, a "Before Baby List" of 10 things that need doing before I go in for my induction. I'm happy to say that 3 of them are done already! And a good chunk of the others I will be able to cross off when I get paid next. This weekend I am determined to get that crib put together! And I am toying with the idea of looking through some of the stored baby clothes - although I might leave that for a week or two... Mainly because I don't fancy adding to the growing mountain of laundry until we've got a handle on it again (I've been horrifically tired lately and not done much laundry, Hubby can't keep up with it on his own).<br />
<br />
I'm back at the GD clinic on Wednesday for another growth scan and natter with the GD Team. I'm hoping - since I'll be 30 weeks then - that I might finally get that induction date! Although I do know I might have to wait another 3 weeks for that. I hope not. You all know how I like to plan ahead!MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-44241889180550417472014-06-06T08:23:00.000+01:002014-08-04T11:23:57.071+01:00Bump Pic!My Sister-in-law (the one who is due 2-3 days before me) has been putting the pressure on me to take and share a bump picture! Honestly, I simply haven't had the time to do this easy little thing! But this morning, at 29 weeks and 5 days, I finally pulled my finger out and took a photo.<br />
<br />
So here it is..... my Baby Belly! (And Tom in the background too)<br />
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<br />MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-76322183517724560192014-06-03T20:47:00.000+01:002014-08-04T11:23:48.335+01:00Nesting in full swing!We're on!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCPoLL-4S2feHjTqijVFWszTnShRwGw1cOwq5g0I75oWlrlDat8o-rAKy1tIgMNQlABcSUYkKJ6bZfcmbX3QbzVe-33qDQH6WRFUvOzu3MEzu1mi-mHJKsd0WFWE3whNn-Hxa36M8l244L/s1600/nest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCPoLL-4S2feHjTqijVFWszTnShRwGw1cOwq5g0I75oWlrlDat8o-rAKy1tIgMNQlABcSUYkKJ6bZfcmbX3QbzVe-33qDQH6WRFUvOzu3MEzu1mi-mHJKsd0WFWE3whNn-Hxa36M8l244L/s1600/nest.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Finally got the drawers today, after waiting half the day for a text from Argos that turned out to be an email sent yesterday (not impressed Argos, you can do better than that!) We've opted to give them to Jack instead of George, and give George Jack's drawers... Which are going into the nursery. Confused? Trust me, it makes since really. The new drawers have more room in them which means Jack has a drawer especially for his school uniform. They are the same as Tom's so they can go side-by-side and the top be used as Georgie-proof storage (no more Lego tipped out all over the floor at 2 am).<br />
<br />
Having the smaller set of drawers in the nursery for Georgie to use isn't ideal, but it is only short term really. Once the room shuffle starts it won't matter any more. Right now, making sure the boys have room to play in their room is more important than tons of free space in the nursery.<br />
<br />
So, Hubby has built the new drawers. I have arranged Jack's clothes in them. I have moved the other drawers into the nursery, and emptied the bookcase. The kids are in bed now and Hubby is mending the bookcase - which is only a cheapie one I bought as a temporary thing 15 years ago and has taken a hammering. Poor bloke is worn out, but it needs doing tonight because all the stuff that was on it is now on our bed! If it's not mended, in place, and filled tonight we'll be sleeping in the living room! He's getting a bit grumpy. I'm staying out of his way!<br />
<br />
Needless to say the crib will NOT be getting sorted tonight. I might have a go tomorrow after work if I have any energy left. If not... Well there's time yet. 75 days to due date!<br />
<br />
My next job: a big clothes sort! I'm planning to start on Sunday (next day me and Hubs are both home) but with the kids home that day I doubt I'll get much done.MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-70865945278213930832014-06-01T09:18:00.000+01:002014-08-04T11:23:42.704+01:00"Before Baby List"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I need lists to get me through life. Without lists I forget important stuff. I get a GREAT satisfaction from finishing a list and crossing off the LAST item on it!</div>
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This is our list of 10 things we NEED to do before this baby arrives.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwLgJVeq8yIs6f_5nrCaD0wp-fu9x4-MhdvoERTHDvPriaq7hhWRPTDClJx6Jb98fxnf8ZwDYywnSohsk9T1epgbl8_SEW4qqKQPWVy-OSLbkAkTcJy0qfKI0UyYJdXiq2hq0OIUc7lAMy/s1600/FullList.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwLgJVeq8yIs6f_5nrCaD0wp-fu9x4-MhdvoERTHDvPriaq7hhWRPTDClJx6Jb98fxnf8ZwDYywnSohsk9T1epgbl8_SEW4qqKQPWVy-OSLbkAkTcJy0qfKI0UyYJdXiq2hq0OIUc7lAMy/s1600/FullList.jpg" height="640" width="456" /></a></div>
<br />MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-18302247119619961862014-05-30T15:38:00.000+01:002014-08-04T11:23:36.280+01:00Starting To Nest!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXgcFL-E1N5VWNA9yQmNr3FcrIdJGP8SGhOjMnwKo929sIRFY-rle-Ivwl7Kwtmlgpid8hCU7aVxYW5yiRTmecXBlTABCTVqHYjqq9LtoAGSXPyN7RV0PK2f_Do5o_LEXSvXpJt7doqw09/s1600/5054065086481.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXgcFL-E1N5VWNA9yQmNr3FcrIdJGP8SGhOjMnwKo929sIRFY-rle-Ivwl7Kwtmlgpid8hCU7aVxYW5yiRTmecXBlTABCTVqHYjqq9LtoAGSXPyN7RV0PK2f_Do5o_LEXSvXpJt7doqw09/s1600/5054065086481.jpg" height="320" width="255" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vests from the set Jack chose</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I went out with Jack today and he chose Bean's "coming home" outfit a gender neutral two piece set with a fluffy elephant on it. Then we found some vests and a hat to match! So that's that sorted! All I need for the hospital bag now are the nappies and something for me to wear when I come home!<br />
<br />
I've been trying to sort the nursery a bit. We're a bit stuck now until next week when Georgie's new drawers arrive. So far his clothes are still in the nursery room drawers, which Bean will need. But once he has his own drawers I can start looking through my baby clothes and cloth nappies, give the drawers a good clean, and check over the baby toys to see if they are in need of cleaning.
<br />
<br />
I started to look at what we had for baby and there is just SO much stuff that we already have! Loads of soft toys, musical toys, a couple of play mats/gyms with interchangeable toys (about 2 bags of toys for them). I want to get a new bouncy chair. But beyond that.... Bean is pretty well set up!
<br />
<br />
I've dug out the baby car seat and taken the cover off ready to get washed - it got a bit dusty since it was used last. I'd like to get it in the car now (just to get it out of the way) but don't know how many more runs to the tip hubby wants to make between now and baby and it seems silly to put it in just to keep taking it out every other weekend for the next 10-12 weeks. For now it's sat in the baby bath next to the cot.<br />
<br />
I'm itching to get back into my baby clothes stash. I ditched a load of stuff just before I put it away last time and only kept stuff I really really love. I'm going to get a bit teary eyed going through it all again I bet!
<br />
<br />
I want to put the crib up soon. I was hoping for this weekend. But there is still a bookcase in our room where I want the crib to go. That needs to go into the nursery, but can't move until Georgie's drawers are here and we've worked out the best way to squeeze everything in.
<br />
<br />
So...... Everything hinges on these ruddy drawers! And when there is a whole weekend just begging for stuff to fill it, Tuesday feels like a looooooong way away!MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-38340647500924386272014-05-28T17:00:00.000+01:002014-08-04T11:23:09.828+01:00Metformin, The Conclusion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjO8NcQh-lneruKbFOvY0e6OXfuKbId05RnenX2es7TvuTQxpURMd1GOLgakKYbkovma1MAqHeGp2beEkZxsRHgZ9rflgo2LUWTt0tDyCGLUsI9mSSAiYeWA7euuy1sRyDl-sxOEvgTCU3/s1600/Diabetesnotes.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjO8NcQh-lneruKbFOvY0e6OXfuKbId05RnenX2es7TvuTQxpURMd1GOLgakKYbkovma1MAqHeGp2beEkZxsRHgZ9rflgo2LUWTt0tDyCGLUsI9mSSAiYeWA7euuy1sRyDl-sxOEvgTCU3/s1600/Diabetesnotes.png" height="258" width="320" /></a></div>
Tuesday came round and I called the GD nurses to discuss this whole "<a href="http://blog2.family-walker.co.uk/2014/05/why-i-wont-be-taking-metformin.html" target="_blank">I'm not taking Metformin</a>" thing, and left a message asking for them to call me back. Mid afternoon I got the call. It wasn't Zoe, my GD nurse, but her counterpart. She had my notes in front of her though and she knew I was calling about whether or not I would consent to taking the medication.<br />
<br />
I explained very quickly why I wasn't happy with it.<br />
<br />
First off that it wasn't licensed yet. She assured me it had been used safely for years with no reported problems but I just explained again that I wasn't willing to take that risk with my child.<br />
<br />
And secondly, that I disagreed with the doctors opinion that I needed it in the first place given that the other GD nurse Zoe, the GD MW, dietician, and consultant where all happy. He was basing his prescription on a handful of days with untrustworthy blood sugar results.<br />
<br />
She asked who I had seen and I described him to her. "Oh, him" she said with a sign and a tone of voice that spoke volumes "He's the registrar" (step up from doctor, training to be a consultant). She asked which blood sugars he had considered too high and I told her it was he bed time blood sugars, which had only been recorded as higher because they had been taken hours earlier due to me being tired and going to bed up to 2 1/2 hours early. I told her on these days they were over 5.5 by 0.1 or 0.2. I heard her confer with someone else in her office and came back to me saying "we don't need your bloods to be 5.5 or below at bedtime.... how were they after your evening meal?" My reply: well within the required limit. She sighed again.<br />
<br />
And the conclusion to all this? Well, as long as I am eating properly - she was very worried that I might not be eating properly in an attempt to reduce my blood sugars - then there is no reason why I should take the Metformin if I don't want to.<br />
<br />
It seems clear to me that this <i>Registrar </i>has his own agenda regarding Metformin and I am <b>not </b>going to be a part of it.<br />
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<br />MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-87103408600190288382014-05-22T11:50:00.000+01:002014-08-04T11:23:03.794+01:00Why I WONT be taking Metformin!So yesterday I went for my <a href="http://blog2.family-walker.co.uk/2014/05/growth-scan-gd-clinic.html" target="_blank">GD clinic appointment and growth scan</a>. I came out with box of metformin that I wasn't too happy about being given because I believed that my blood sugars are under control (and they are). When I got home I told Hubby about it and asked what he thought about my decision to wait until after the weekend and be convinced that my blood sugars were in fact NOT fine before I consented to take the meds. He did some research before he gave me an answer.<br />
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<b>And I'm so glad that he did!</b><br />
<br />
<i>Before I go on I need to make it very clear that I am NOT trying to convince other people not to take metformin, or to stop taking it if they already are. I am simply explaining why I am not going to be taking it. </i><i> You can always speak to your doctor or midwife if you find yourself in my situation and are worried. </i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>
<b>Reasons I don't want to take Metformin:</b><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSTWfRGejEgCrxNpbSwelQza31mV-MQ-DhQgQ3XMVZv0UjK6IurvhwBr8_7LS_AVAJGKhpISCTCC64ABGodYBaS4f9SuZoB7y9J1nXGQbZEmELfiUBCkKY1XZI94NJX0j6SRmoiGYhcPby/s1600/metformin1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSTWfRGejEgCrxNpbSwelQza31mV-MQ-DhQgQ3XMVZv0UjK6IurvhwBr8_7LS_AVAJGKhpISCTCC64ABGodYBaS4f9SuZoB7y9J1nXGQbZEmELfiUBCkKY1XZI94NJX0j6SRmoiGYhcPby/s1600/metformin1.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ref 2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i><b></b></i><br />
<i><b></b></i>
1) The NHS website says "do not take this medicine during pregnancy" (ref 1)<br />
<br />
2) The information leaflet that comes with the medication says "do not take Glucophage SR [the brand of Metformin I was given] if you are pregnant" (ref 2)<br />
<br />
3) This medication is NOT LICENSED for use in Pregnancy either in the UK or USA. Ask yourself why.<br />
<br />
Now, OK, I will accept that in certain circumstances using a medication which is not licensed for use in pregnancy, but is for other purposes, may be necessary. As Hubby and I both looked into Metformin we've seen that if you are already diabetic or suffer from PCOS (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polycystic_ovary_syndrome">Polycystic ovary syndrome</a>) then it can be beneficial in pregnancy.<br />
<br />
<b>Which leads me on to my next couple of reasons for me to not take it.</b><br />
<br />
4) I don't have PCOS. Never have had. I was checked out for it back in 2009.<br />
<br />
5) I am not diabetic, not even while pregnant (<a href="http://mummawalkers3rdbaby.blogspot.co.uk/2012/04/baby-is-here.html" target="_blank">see the birth story post where my consultant admitted this</a>)<br />
<br />
So why does this doctor want me to take this medication? Especially when - as I said in yesterdays post - "The GD consultant, GD nurse, GD midwife, and GD dietitian were all HAPPY with my bloods. Just this one guy that wasn't." I actually overheard my consultant (who I normally don't get on with at all) discuss me with the others members of the GD team and say they were about to discharge for the day, until someone interrupted her and said I was being put on Metformin. Even SHE asked why! Sadly I didn't hear the reply...<br />
<br />
Take a look at this article on the NHS website. Granted, the Daily Mail is not my newspaper of choice, but this is actually on the NHS website (<a href="http://www.nhs.uk/news/2012/04april/Pages/metformin-pregnant-diabetes-obesity.aspx" target="_blank">link</a>) and they discuss the truth behind the news story and the trials. This is the first thing we saw on this article:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Babies are to be “treated in the womb for obesity”, according to the Daily Mail. The newspaper said that overweight mothers-to-be will be given a diabetes pill “to cut the risk of having a fat child”.</blockquote>
Ooooh! OK, I see. He wants me to have this medication because I'm FAT! (which I am, but so what?)<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
This research is neither new nor finished yet, and it is unclear why the Daily Mail has chosen to cover it. This study began in 2010 and will run until 2014, when its results will be revealed. Only then will we be able to see if the research is truly newsworthy.</blockquote>
A fat <i>Guinea-pig</i> at that. He didn't even tell me it was at trial stage, he just said it was "safe in pregnancy" - so why isn't it licensed for use in pregnancy?<br />
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I recommend you read the whole article. It mentions one of the things the use of the medication should help to avoid is excess fat on the baby leading to dramatic post birth weight loss etc.<br />
<br />
<b>Looking back at my own experience with my 3 sons: </b><br />
<br />
Jack DID loose a what seemed like a lot of weight when when he was born. But within the safe parameters. He did not lose a dangerous amount, or even a slightly worrying amount. I wasn''t under the GD Clinic with him and I ate what I wanted (I wanted Jaffa Cakes) He was a big baby at 9lb 13oz. He is still very tall - just like his dad. He is also lean, muscular, fit, and without an oz of excess fat on his entire body! Certainly not obese or diabetic. Yes, if I had not lived off cakes for 9 months he would have been slimmer at birth and lost even less weight. Lesson learned. I know don't eat junk 24/7 while pregnant - that's what my diet control is all about. <b>Without mediation!</b><br />
<br />
Tom & George hardly lost ANY weight after they were born at almost 9lb 8oz and 9lb 9oz respectively. I didn't stuff my face with cakes when I was expecting them! They are also lean and fit. Again, diet control. <b>Without mediation!</b><br />
<br />
<b>So what is my personal conclusion to all this?</b><br />
<br />
Simple! I don't need Metformin.<br />
<br />
I have NO medical need for it as I am not diabetic or suffer from PCOS. I have NOT CONSENTED to be part of a trial. I have NOT CONSENTED to take an unlicensed medication. I am ALREADY CONTROLLING MY BLOOD SUGAR via my diet and doing an acceptable job of it.<br />
<br />
And, as I have said countless times in many many places: I HAVE BIG BABIES BECAUSE I HAVE BIG BABIES! Too much sugar in my diet might well make them fat, so I avoid excess sugar. It wont make their skulls bigger, arms and legs longer, or lengthen their spines. So knowing all this, why would I put myself and my unborn baby at risk by taking an unlicensed, unnecessary medication? Just because my high BMI checks a box on some random doctors form? Really? Is that a good enough reason? Not for this mother!<br />
<br />
<hr />
<br />
Ref 1: <a href="http://www.nhs.uk/medicine-guides/pages/MedicineOverview.aspx?condition=Diabetes&medicine=metformin&preparationMetformin%20500mg%20tablets">http://www.nhs.uk/medicine-guides/pages/MedicineOverview.aspx?condition=Diabetes&medicine=metformin&preparationMetformin%20500mg%20tablets</a><br />
Ref 2: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSTWfRGejEgCrxNpbSwelQza31mV-MQ-DhQgQ3XMVZv0UjK6IurvhwBr8_7LS_AVAJGKhpISCTCC64ABGodYBaS4f9SuZoB7y9J1nXGQbZEmELfiUBCkKY1XZI94NJX0j6SRmoiGYhcPby/s1600/metformin1.jpg" target="_blank">The leaflet included in the medication</a><br />
Ref 3: <a href="http://www.nhs.uk/news/2012/04april/Pages/metformin-pregnant-diabetes-obesity.aspx">http://www.nhs.uk/news/2012/04april/Pages/metformin-pregnant-diabetes-obesity.aspx</a><br />
<br />MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-74301635234631670452014-05-21T16:57:00.000+01:002014-08-04T11:22:54.194+01:00Growth Scan & GD Clinic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqw55DSOJ58eqtCc1kcqGadng_ALKdNuznLiQPHxk5KTt8ZSLqkCWdGZMFpbJhjCkslCGA-BM9yNp4lwzo1WzcxBhOT7APng2caxYNKCApjNqgzyWUbfCoQ9ZGTnZR3nN-WLtlvIfqWOq8/s1600/BEAN27w-2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqw55DSOJ58eqtCc1kcqGadng_ALKdNuznLiQPHxk5KTt8ZSLqkCWdGZMFpbJhjCkslCGA-BM9yNp4lwzo1WzcxBhOT7APng2caxYNKCApjNqgzyWUbfCoQ9ZGTnZR3nN-WLtlvIfqWOq8/s1600/BEAN27w-2.png" height="320" width="267" /></a></div>
I was seen by a trainee sonographer today. She took some very big measurements... her mentor had her retake a few of them and didn't watch all her measurements. While she was lovely and friendly, and very happy to have another look at baby's gender and get my a nice pic (nice as you can at this stage) I'm not sure she got them right. I <b>am sure</b> baby is a bit on the big side because mine always are, but not as big as she recorded - 30+ weeks when I'm 27w 3d. Got a free pic though!<br />
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I also wound up with a very over cautious young doctor (who tells everyone to call clinic every week which the rest of the GD team say isn't the case). He wants me to take metformin daily even though my bloods aren't bad, just borderline at bedtime.<br />
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I have an issue with this!<br />
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The GD consultant, GD nurse, GD midwife, and GD dietitian were all HAPPY with my bloods. Just this one guy that wasn't. Sorry, but without the back up of the team I have seen regularly (for 3 pregnancies) I just don't trust this guy. I'm not convinced and don't want to take it. I've been going to bed a lot earlier (by hours) so naturally the readings are going to be different because they are being taken much sooner.
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I explained that I wasn't totally happy with being prescribed the medication, and I've suggested that I try to get these end of day results down over the weekend. If I can then I get to avoid the meds. If I can't.... then fair enough, I'll take them. I have picked the meds up, and will call the GD Nurse on Tuesday to tell her how I have got on over the weekend and bank holiday. I don't object to taking medication if it is actually necessary - in other words if I cannot keep these levels down - but not if it's just a precaution or on the whim of a newbie doctor trying to cover himself.<br />
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It was always my impression that taking medication you didn't need CAUSED problems!MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-26843903315929744252014-05-07T16:12:00.002+01:002014-08-04T11:22:46.288+01:00Midwife!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXkXDX8221r_CTISA7hBBlFzx7mkIxcp5TvxDmVU6C8ldQklsKUx7VQCpzkVDUdqtOwkgiSPeg2cGagvpt2BDYHn1yA4n9D4-KEYIoa32ia3hN0Tz6aiklRuyHBIy1srHb4K2L5dnhCJQO/s1600/bad-day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXkXDX8221r_CTISA7hBBlFzx7mkIxcp5TvxDmVU6C8ldQklsKUx7VQCpzkVDUdqtOwkgiSPeg2cGagvpt2BDYHn1yA4n9D4-KEYIoa32ia3hN0Tz6aiklRuyHBIy1srHb4K2L5dnhCJQO/s1600/bad-day.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a>I've not been having the greatest day, the car was playing up this morning, traffic was crazy getting into work, assorted office technology was refusing to play nicely, and I had a phone call with my boss which wound me up too....<br />
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So I was somewhat glad to pop out for a bit this afternoon to see the midwife.<br />
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Shame really, because it wasn't the best appointment I've ever had. Baby looks to be measuring "big" already (although the chart is similar to my prev pregs so I'm not worried) and I need to check out the result of my growth scan in two weeks time. Baby's heart rate was well up and had to be checked again after 5 mins or so when it had calmed down. It's likely due to the massive kicking fit baby had just put me through moments before hand. And it looks like I have another water infection.... I'll hear about the results for that next week.<br />
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She told me I would need to book an appointment for my 28 week bloods that would HAVE TO BE at 28 weeks. So in 3 weeks time. Normally fine, but this time it's a pain! The midwife clinic at my docs runs on a Mon & Wed afternoons. The Monday that week is a bank holiday so they are closed. The Wednesday I have ALL THREE KIDS and there is NO WAY I am dragging them all to the MW Clinic with me in the middle of the holidays. My blood pressure will be sky high for a start! So I called the GPs and asked for advice, they gave me the community midwife number so I could call up and see where the other drop in sessions are around me.<br />
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I called the number and spoke to a non-midwife. First off she started talking over me about how naughty it was of my midwife not to have booked me an appointment when I saw her - I had to explain that I needed to check my diary first so she couldn't. Then she told me that if it was a 28 week blood test then it MUST be a blood glucose test.... It isn't. I told her I was already under the GD Clinic, it was the routine 28 week bloods. She then told me to call my GP! I explained it was THEM that had given me THIS number!<br />
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Finally she shut up and let me finish explaining why I had called. That I couldn't attend the MW Clinic at my GP at 28 weeks because of the bank holiday on the 26th, and having no one to mind my kids on Wed. She said "oh you could come here tomorrow". I sighed deeply to keep calm and reiterated the 28 weeks bloods needed to be at 28 weeks, the week starting 26th May. I am only 25 weeks right now.<br />
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"Oh... well you could go to the drop in at the Uni on the Friday."<br />
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Grrrrr...... I'll be calling in advance, just in case they are closed for the holidays.<br />
<br />MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-31739530991828086852014-04-29T14:05:00.000+01:002014-08-04T11:22:39.696+01:00Viable!!!!Wow! I can't believe haven't posted on here for nearly 3 weeks. I can't believe I am 24 weeks pregnant, and viable! (<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fetal_viability" target="_blank">Basics on viability</a>) It's been a busy time. The Easter Holidays took up a massive amount of my time, and Georgie turned 2 as well which means he's had his first settling in day at nursery. We've had visits from family too. It's as though I have blinked and missed 3 weeks!<br />
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To be honest, there isn't much to report on the pregnancy front. I don't see my midwife for over a week, and it's another 4 weeks until my scan and GD clinic. I'm just plodding along. I'm getting noticeably bigger though, and now that the weather is getting warmer and I'm not always wrapped up in my coat when I go out people are starting to notice. Some of the teachers at Jack's school have come over and congratulated us, one of my neighbours caught up with me this morning and tentatively asked if I was pregnant again (she knew a while back that we'd planned for another one). Some of the mums on the school run claim I have "suddenly popped" but I think they just hadn't noticed how big I was getting under my coat, hee hee!<br />
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Baby is very active. It's lovely! Some times I actually laugh out loud when I feel the little hands and feet move through my belly. Jack and Tom have both been able to feel baby move. George probably has too, although he wouldn't know how to articulate it. He spends enough time laid across my belly when baby is kicking, I'd be very surprised if he hadn't felt something.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyJU8UfKXvcEgOWHQcJPCyC8V2DvIUXRTbeVL3K6RJY7aFAHzRpMGEtKuwbJHZD0NUgntFPADFpppMlC1A71QQjOAu1sPQsI4RGtQg7cTYyVqDCiOHB3cTLcApaIkbb2NHXUKCwH9UkPJa/s1600/hosp-bag2014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyJU8UfKXvcEgOWHQcJPCyC8V2DvIUXRTbeVL3K6RJY7aFAHzRpMGEtKuwbJHZD0NUgntFPADFpppMlC1A71QQjOAu1sPQsI4RGtQg7cTYyVqDCiOHB3cTLcApaIkbb2NHXUKCwH9UkPJa/s1600/hosp-bag2014.JPG" height="320" width="271" /></a>I'm starting to count down now. Less than 16 weeks until my due date! I'm starting to gather stuff together now that I'm past the 24 week point. I put an order in for a new holdall this morning which I will use as my hospital bag. My little suitcase is tatty now and I just fancy something pretty and new and nice. I have a list in my head of what I need to put in it - because I'll have at least one over night because they will need to monitor me and baby overnight due to the GD - and I'll be picking a little up each week with my regular shopping.<br />
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I just know I'll end up packing, unpacking, and repacking about a million times between now and August! But that's all part of the fun. I'm just itching for Hubby to get that bathroom finished now because I need to make room for the crib in our room. There's a rickety old bookcase in the way that needs replacing and relocating. He wont let me do it, so he'd better crack on!<br />
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<br />MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-66307126457228891612014-04-10T22:00:00.000+01:002014-08-04T11:22:32.841+01:00Second GD Clinic<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjO8NcQh-lneruKbFOvY0e6OXfuKbId05RnenX2es7TvuTQxpURMd1GOLgakKYbkovma1MAqHeGp2beEkZxsRHgZ9rflgo2LUWTt0tDyCGLUsI9mSSAiYeWA7euuy1sRyDl-sxOEvgTCU3/s1600/Diabetesnotes.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjO8NcQh-lneruKbFOvY0e6OXfuKbId05RnenX2es7TvuTQxpURMd1GOLgakKYbkovma1MAqHeGp2beEkZxsRHgZ9rflgo2LUWTt0tDyCGLUsI9mSSAiYeWA7euuy1sRyDl-sxOEvgTCU3/s1600/Diabetesnotes.png" height="258" width="320" /></a>At least I got to this appointment on time. I managed mess up my pee sample though... How dumb is this? I got to the hospital practically peeing my pants to make sure I could provide a sample. Got a tube from reception, over filled it, tried to tip some down the loo, slipped and dumped the lot! Could not squeeze out another drip! Doh!<br />
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Still, no big deal. I just need to make sure I get one to the midwife on my next visit.<br />
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Clinic went ok. First off I saw Jackie the midwife who checked my blood pressure, which was fine. Then I was visited by the Mighty Consultant herself, who admitted my bloods were all fine still. She doubts I can maintain it though because I am "much older" than last time (2 years!!!) so I need to keep testing. I asked about arranging my induction now but she explained that they can't do that since at this stage the baby's rate of growth is too fluid. It would be more stable at 30-32 weeks and then they can judge how soon to deliver baby. Booking me in now would likely result in numerous date changes. Once she'd gone I was seen by Zoe who checked over my blood results, then I was told I could go, the dietitian didn't need to see me unless I wanted to see him. I didn't especially.... (He's nice, but I hate hanging around the clinic).<br />
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Consultant said she would make me an appointment for 5 weeks time, then gave me one for 6 weeks. But never mind... At least then I won't have to find a sitter for the kids coz hubby will be home. I'll get a growth scan and see all the people from the clinic again.<br />
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I'll be 28 weeks gone at that point, and just starting my 3rd Trimester! Where on earth is the time going??MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-39899507672564215972014-04-01T15:50:00.001+01:002014-08-04T11:22:27.959+01:00The 20 Week Scan Appointment (with pics)This almost when HORRIBLY HORRIBLY wrong!<br />
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I have been telling myself for WEEKS that today's appointment was at 10:30 am. I arranged for my mum to mind the kids, Hubby arranged to go into work late, I planned the route to the hospital and contingency plans for if/when we couldn't get parked at the hospital. All was going according to plan!<br />
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Until we had done a tour of the hospital car park and (unsurprisingly) failed to find a parking space. I drop off to the over-flow car park in town and Hubby says "It is 10:30, your appointment, isn't it?" and I answered with full confidence and swagger and referred him to the letter in my Green Notes. Which he looked at. And read 10:00. 5 MINS TIME AND WE'RE STUCK IN TRAFFIC WITH A 10 MINS WALK FROM THE CAR PARK IF WE FIND A SPACE THERE!<br />
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Luckily the letter has a phone number on, I chuck my phone at him and ask that he rings them, lets them know we ARE on our way, and the traffic starts to move. No one answers but he can leave a message, by the time he has I'm pulling in to the overflow car park. I chuck my money at him, grab my notes and say "you pay, I'll go, catch me up!" and charge off at a surprising pace for a girl as fat AND pregnant as me. I arrive only 5 mins late!<br />
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They were understanding when I explained at the Women's Unit. I think they must be used to people having problems getting parked there. It wasn't long after Hubby joined me that we were called. We had the same sonographer as at our dating scan, she remembered us (which is lovely) and she explained that we would be getting the long, detailed scan today and that we were no to worry if she was quiet to start with, she would be concentrating while she looked at all the stuff she needed to see. She would talk us through stuff after.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimI3-X_J2ar54aThAcsx_JYNBB0UuCjuhWxLBkN6yuQNa6GIHLGfzjPIIpzjzvLkyRzItkKmUYggbCkV8BK1LmBMWr_DOM_xhgDtB697C4yMqh95ortXakbZ3djGBjutGnwQ0ZB-2_NUbY/s1600/Bean20wScanCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt=""Baby Bean" - 20 week scan pictures" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimI3-X_J2ar54aThAcsx_JYNBB0UuCjuhWxLBkN6yuQNa6GIHLGfzjPIIpzjzvLkyRzItkKmUYggbCkV8BK1LmBMWr_DOM_xhgDtB697C4yMqh95ortXakbZ3djGBjutGnwQ0ZB-2_NUbY/s1600/Bean20wScanCollage.jpg" height="640" title=""Baby Bean" - 20 week scan pictures" width="640" /></a></div>
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Bean had other ideas though! Little monkey was well head down and not wanting to play, plus cross legged so there was no clear view of the private parts! After a new minutes of prodding and poking, and tilting the bed back in the hope of sliding baby further up my body, we were asked to go for a walk for 20 mins or so and a drink, then come back for another try. Which we did.... a little under half an hour later and I'm back on the bed getting prodded again. This time she could get Bean's head and leg measurements, but baby was STILL not for showing us the goods! Hubby was asked to leave (as he doesn't want to know before the birth) so she could try to get a better look and she thinks she may have got a flash of something.... but couldn't be sure.<br />
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Now, I know the sonographers will NEVER say 100% if a baby is a boy or a girl, but I've always had "I'm fairly sure" or "pretty certain" with my other babies. This time she was not committing to anything even as much as that. I'm to ask again at my growth scan (which is around 28 weeks). But I think she's right...... Would you like to know what she thinks she might have seen? Highlight between these brackets if you do!<br />
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<b><i><u>BUT DO NOT MENTION IT ANYWHERE! </u></i></b><br />
Hubby really really wants the surprise, and he deserves to have it.<br />
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---> (<span style="background-color: white; color: white;">.......We are probably having a Freddie! ......</span>) <---</div>
MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6488749499754909602.post-75816058169329931152014-03-28T14:26:00.001+00:002014-08-04T11:22:00.129+01:00Stupidly Excited!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyblH_NBuXPh1u8jr5TXAiEGrdcmrRyRFwAnjXtD_pSTS_60mIlXuWfX-0ODK3PDaKCNSRFqQ3o8cSLc2SbN_e8NDgaffwVWgQ2L9IYJdqd7kkPR37mwfeUqF9mL2NOM4XFLT_HY-M7wcD/s1600/gender-question.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyblH_NBuXPh1u8jr5TXAiEGrdcmrRyRFwAnjXtD_pSTS_60mIlXuWfX-0ODK3PDaKCNSRFqQ3o8cSLc2SbN_e8NDgaffwVWgQ2L9IYJdqd7kkPR37mwfeUqF9mL2NOM4XFLT_HY-M7wcD/s1600/gender-question.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
The next few days are feel like forever, second only to my last few days before induction / due date.<br />
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On Sunday I reach 20 weeks, which means that Tuesday is my 20 week anomaly scan day aka <b>the gender scan!</b><br />
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I am so excited at the prospect of finding out if Bean is a boy or a girl! It's pretty much my one and only topic of thought if left to my own devices for any amount of time. I feel a bit silly really, despite all my reading up on gender prediction and our having fun "trying" for a girl I am quite certain that Bean is a boy. I think that other than actually seeing the baby's bits first hand, or at least at the 20+ week scan, the best way to determine a baby's gender is to go off the mum's gut feeling. <b>And I'm feeling BOY.</b><br />
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The scan is nice and early, I'm booked in at 10:30 which means I'm not hanging around waiting all day going insane, and that there is time for my mum to come up and mind Tom & Georgie (who will be at home unlike Jack who will be at school), AND Hubby can still get to work afterwards without being ridiculously late or having to take the day off work. Couldn't have worked out better!<br />
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Hubby is going to stay for the scan, but leave the room towards the end so I can ask what gender baby is - because he doesn't want to know, remember? Then I can drop him off at work and go SHOPPING! Just for a few bits.... in pink or blue (probably blue!)<br />
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If this baby IS a girl I have no idea how I will contain myself.... not because I specifically crave a daughter myself, but because Hubby does. I will be delighted for myself either way. I'll be <b>ecstatic </b>for him if it's a daughter, and a little sorry for him if it's a 4th son, because we're REALLY not doing this again! Not without a very very large lotto win. I will have to play it very cool so as not to give anything away. We have already agreed that no matter what - boy or girl - I will continue to refer to baby as "he" until they are here in the world with us, which what we agreed with my 2nd and 3rd babies.<br />
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I'm trying to prepare the Hubby, mentally, for another son. We (me and the kids) refer to Baby Bean as "Fred" and "he" - although I am careful to remind the kids that it *might* be a girl. He actually said to me the other day "You're convinced this baby is another boy, aren't you?" and I had to answer truthfully that yes I am. Imagine how thrilled he would be if Baby really did turn out to be a girl!?<br />
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<br />MummaWalkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16703236961629475218noreply@blogger.com0