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Pregnancy and you

With Mayo Clinic certified nurse-midwife Mary Murry, R.N., C.N.M.
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February 20, 2008 1:07 p.m.
Pregnancy and you: Welcome to our new blog
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By Mary Murry, R.N., C.N.M.

I was touring the baby department of a local superstore over the weekend and I was astounded at all the "things" that are available now for moms, newborns and babies.

My baby just turned 19 last week and I discovered things have come a long way in the last 20 years. Slings and carriers; cradle swings and play yards (I guess playpen does sound kind of prison like); baby monitors and portable electric breast pumps (don’t ask about mine). Car seats are all 5 point and strollers look like SUVs. What a marvel! How did I care for a baby without at least some of these things?

I might not have had all those things but there were other things it seems I had less of: rules. I could eat a club sandwich every day. I could gorge on fish. I could drink coffee. I could eat soft cheeses in ignorant bliss. Today's pregnant woman could wonder how I had such healthy babies.

There do seem to be so many do's and don'ts for pregnant women today. It can seem like there is no living while you are pregnant, at least not the life you were used to. I hope this blog can be a place for pregnant women to share their concerns and their worries as well as their joys and little miracles. As a mother and a nurse midwife I look forward to being a part of this community.

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April 19, 2008 2:26 p.m.
This is in response to Roberta's question: I had two wisdom teeth pulled during my pregnancy one at 6 months the other at 8 months (I still need another pulled). Its perfectly ok. The dentist/x-rayer should put a double apron over your belly for extra protection and they'll at least need a note from your doctor explaining what drugs they can prescribe (for example antibiotics/pain killers). My babies fine...even more than fine (8lbs at 9 months). So go for it but be sure to check with your doctor 1st. Dental problems, like a bad tooth (which I've had), could cause preterm labor. So if its necessary do it, if its a wisdom tooth they're try to save go on a head and get it pulled....wisdom teeth are in part extra teeth and the hardest to maintain since they're way in the back. Good Luck :)
- Jennie
April 15, 2008 8:54 p.m.
where can i find a good "do and don't" list for being pregnant?
- No name given
April 14, 2008 1:44 a.m.
My husband recently had a vasectomy reversal and I was wondering if anyone else out their has experienced this and what their experience was like. The surgeon said that everything went great and that we shouldn't have a problem, which we are exstatic about! Just wondering if anyone had any encouraging thoughts or stories about pregnancy after a vasectomy reversal, or any tips on how to concieve afterward! Thanks!
- Melissa
April 14, 2008 1:15 a.m.
Currently 12 weeks pregnant - have had spotting for last 5 days (vary between light brown and light pink colour), lower abdominal pain, upper abdominal pain (heart burn), the noisiest tummy in town (so much wind but can't release it), and constipation. Had 12 week ultrasound on Friday and was told the baby was perfectly healthy, no abnormalities, heartbeat 164. I have a doctor's appointment this week to have it checked out and I was in hospital last week getting the spotting and cramps checked out. I was just told to rest as cervix was closed. Has anyone else had these experiences? Just curious - Don't worry I am always at hospital or doctors getting checked out!
- Kelly
April 13, 2008 2:45 p.m.
I think I'm in the right place for information :-). In my past I have had a history of sensitivity to birth control pills, they always make me nauseous. I recently quit taking them because I got really sick one night. I figured my period would be coming soon. It has been 7 days since I last took them. To my surprise I have been exhibiting signs of pregnancy. The nausea never went away, my breasts have been really sore, I have been light headed and fatiued and still no sign of my period. So, my question is can you get pregnant while taking birth control and if so, how long should I wait to take a test or go to the doctor?
- Yolanda
March 30, 2008 12:54 a.m.
I find all these posts so interesting! I'm 38 and expecting my 6th girl - yes, you read right!My oldest daughter is 12 and my youngest will be 2 in 3 weeks. The point I'd like to bring home to all you ladies, especially you newer mommies-to-be, is to choose your health care provider carefully. After all the ob/gyn's I've had, I recommend considering going with a midwife! Be scrutinizing and careful in who you choose and the facility you choose, even if you're considering a homebirth, and explore all your options. It can make a big difference in your and your baby's outcome. God bless you all!
- Laura
March 26, 2008 1:30 p.m.
Thank you Bonnie and Julie for your positive feedback. I agree that time will make all the difference. My daughter still isn't thrilled with the idea of diapers and diaper bags, but that will change in time. There is 4 years difference in the childrens ages, so the 4 year old can be a real "helper". I am one of 5 children, the last 3, including me, were not planned and all just 16-18 months apart. My mom and I talked about that a couple of weeks ago. She considered it God's will and took it all in stride. Lucky for the last 3 of us!
- grandma
March 22, 2008 8:59 p.m.
I'm 37 and 9 months pregnant. I can't wait to see the article on being over 35 and pregnant. Doctors in the beginning of your pregnancy have so much doom and gloom to share with you when you're over 35! I think the prognosis should be based on your health and family history-not solely your age. This is my first baby. There's no way I would have been ready to fully embrace the responsibility and sacrifice of a baby earlier in my life-but that's me. I'm now in a place in my career and maturity to fully embrace this blessing without remorse. I'm elated! I look forward to reading this blog as much as I can before I deliver Camille.
- April-Atl.
March 21, 2008 2:59 p.m.
Isn't it wonderful to have such a diverse group? I wish I could answer all questions but I still have to make time to deliver babies. I get a lot ideas for future topics from the comments I read. When I find a common thread, I will try to address it. My blog next week will be about pregnancy over 35.
- Mary MurryMayo.com
March 19, 2008 1:55 p.m.
Hi! I have a dental health related question. i'm 12 wks pregnant and i need a root canal. i'm nervous about getting xrays & the medication required. My ob/gyn said that limited xrays are okay with a lead apron and that no vasal constrictors are allowed but that other pain medication is okay. Does anyone have any advice for me?
- Roberta
March 18, 2008 5:14 a.m.
Hi Everyone, I am so glad to have found this forum. I am 5.5 weeks pregnant with my first baby and I am thrilled about it. I must confess that my head is spinning from all the do's and dont's that I have been reading about. Do any of you have some conclusive info on whethee we should or shouldn't dye our hair?
- Joanne
March 17, 2008 3:04 p.m.
I guess I should clarify...I'm actually 4 weeks pregnant. I don't really get it, but I guess the first two weeks of your cycle are counted even though you are not pregnant.
- Paula - NNY
March 17, 2008 11:31 a.m.
Hi, everybody! I'm 2 weeks pregnant, and very excited. I blogged a while ago about me being older (38 years) and my husband having a vasectomy reversed after 8 years. Well, it worked! We are very excited. I knew something was different from my normal cycle. And I was having some of the symptoms, fatigue, breast tenderness, and a strange feeling in my uterine area (it was like a great big mosquito was biting me). Very cool. I've been writing these things down in a day book, so I can always have something to look at.
- Paula - NNY
March 14, 2008 11:22 p.m.
I am 4 weeks pregnant with my second child and I am dealing with hyothyroidism. I had my thyroid removed 8 months ago. My levels are normal but I have been told that they will change again. I have also heard that there can be miscarriage increases and defects. Has anyone gone through a pregnancy with a pre-existing thyroid problem?
- Becky, AZ
March 14, 2008 1:15 a.m.
Hi! So many topics...it's great. I'm only 4 weeks pregnant with my first. So I'm just taking it easy to get through the 1st trimester. I too have been stressed out about work a bit. My husband and I are totally excited, so that makes things easier. I've been concerned with the controversy over immunizations being linked to autism. Does anyone have any ideas of info on this topic? Good luck to all of you!
- VAL
March 11, 2008 2:11 p.m.
I'm currently trying to conceive. My husband and I are dealing with my fertility problem (polycystic ovarian syndrome). I'm searching for ALL the options I can find. Do you have this disorder? I'm currently on Metformin (850mg) to help regulate my insilin levels. What worked for you? This will be my first child (once we conceive) and we've been back and fourth with my Dr. but we have an app. to get a second opinion. Plus I'm overweight and trying to bring it down so I can help my chances. Do you have advise for me?
- Lauren
March 10, 2008 8:51 a.m.
Sally- When done properly, co-sleeping is a wonderful and safe thing. Check out literature from LeLeche League and Dr. Sears. For most people it is safe.
- Allison
March 7, 2008 8:01 a.m.
I'm happy to see there are so many "mature" mothers here. At 43, I am expecting my first baby. In this small, rural community where my husband and I live, I enjoy reminding certain people that my mother was also 43 when I was born - and it worked out well for me!
- PK
March 5, 2008 10:55 p.m.
My daughter is pg and she was taking seizure meds but stop. She is worried about birth defects. This is her 2nd, the 1st., she went off with no problems but now her dr. wants her back on them. She only has had 2 since she was 17 and now 30, should she take them or not? I can't find anything on pros and cons. I really need you advise and I hope you read this every now and then, so you can answer my question. I hope I didn't offend you by that comment but some people start these blogs and never get back to them. We have already talked to the neuro & internist and they have different opinions. The neuro is insisting and if she doesn't , he will take her driver's license away. Anyways, pls help us. I thank-you in advance, Melba
- Melba W
March 5, 2008 6:08 a.m.
Dear Mary, I believe pregnancy should be fun, it's not a disease but a stressful physiological state. You need a good mindset to carry it. i am having my third pregnancy which i planned for; has 2 babies: 5 and 3. This pregnancy appears to be more stressful than the previous ones but i tried to live my normal life though with some physiological slowing down. I count this period as a temporary one and i can't wait to deliver my last baby hopefully.
- Ayanlowo O
March 5, 2008 2:22 a.m.
Dear Donna, pregnant woman in the age of 48. I'm glad to see I'm not the only weird woman, wanting to have a baby in her late forties. From my first marriage I'v got 3 children, the youngest is 15. I'm 47 now, and met an old schoolfriend, we began a relation that was surely meant to be. He is 48. We both look a bit younger than we are. Pregnancy is easier, when you've already had children before. The chance to get pregnant diminishes strong over the age of 37, and the chance of abortions and Down's syndrome becomes higher. Down's syndrome chance is 6%. And then indeed there is 'what do people think of me and how do they keep reacting', also when you bring your child to school. My brother is 51, his son 3 years, and he sees other parents talking about a second child - that will never be the case for him! Still: it's a joy that keeps you young, but you have to feel within if both of you will be healthy enough till the age of 65. My advice: live long and healthy, enjoy! Anneke, Holland
- Anneke
March 4, 2008 7:15 p.m.
Thanks Mary - where exactly do I find a maternal fetal medicine doctor? Do I simply ask my OBGYN for a referral? Are there any medical associations or lists I should consult? I am not in a big hurry to get pregnant as i have a 5 month old at the moment and my daughter is in school -- but I would like to get all of the information now, so that in a year or two I will be able to make the best decision.
- SPrice
March 4, 2008 7:11 p.m.
Hi Lisa. God must have great plans for your new addition, especially after having your tubes tied. Congratulations!!I am going to be a busy mom too soon. I have a 7,5,3,2year old and one due in July.
- Julie B
March 4, 2008 2:22 p.m.
I have been reading the posts everyday. I am overjoyed we have such a community of diverse people responding. I am sorry I can't answer every question. You all have been answering each other and supporting each other. I do want to respond to a few specific questions. Grace, you are doing the right thing with the folic acid. Because of your history, your risk of a repeat baby with a NTD is 5% (that's 95% chance it won't have one). I did learn that your first degree relatives also have an increased risk so if you have sisters considering pregnancy they should take the increased folic acid dose. To SPrice, please consult a specialist, a maternal fetal medicine doctor to help you know what your risks and options are. You want the best infromation from the best people before making decisions like you have to make.
- Mary Murry Mayoclinic.com
March 3, 2008 9:11 a.m.
Please do not co-sleep with your baby. All babies need to sleep on their backs, alone and in their own crib. The National Safe Sleep Campaign is trying to educate all new moms about the danger of sleep related deaths.
- Sally
March 2, 2008 6:05 p.m.
I'm 29 years old I have a almost 10 month old baby boy. Right after I had him I had my tubes tied. I just found out Im 7 weeks pregnant. I also have two girls 4 and 6. I am very overwhelmed and am having a very hard time adjusting to the idea of having another baby! I am also having A LOT of morning sickness (not only in the mornings) Looking for advice and encouragement...
- Lisa
March 1, 2008 7:50 p.m.
My daughter is pregnant. and her husband has cerebral palsy and is in a wheel chair. Does anyone know of a crib maker who makes cribs with sides that slide open so that someone in a wheelchair can take care of the baby? If so please write to amyjeanb@msn.com Thank you.
- Carol, Amys' mom
March 1, 2008 3:45 p.m.
My last pregnany showed a neural tube defect at 12 weeks - the diagnosis was fatal. I would like to conceive again but am scared something will be wrong with the baby. I am taking 4000mg of folic acid and I know that is supposed to help. What are the chances of having a healthy baby? I already have a perfect, healthy 3 year old and genetic couseling was not reccommened after the NTD.
- Grace
February 29, 2008 4:49 p.m.
Grandma--I am one of six kids and I know that I wasn't "planned." My mom will frequently say because of me and my younger sister, we managed to keep her and my dad young.
- Julie B
February 29, 2008 10:27 a.m.
Thank you so much Lorinda. I will pass the information on to my daughter-in-law.
- Becky - Southeast Kansas
February 29, 2008 10:01 a.m.
iam 23 year old i used to take contraceptive pill i.e famillon tab, i stopped taking since 1 month i want to concive.but i want to know till when i have to wait for conciving and is there any danger if i concive now.
- riya
February 28, 2008 3:49 p.m.
Bonnie - has your doctor put you on progesterone? with your history, you may have miscarried because your body wasn't producing enough for you and the baby. this is sometimes not accurately diagnosed by blood draw (saliva testing is better) but I would not take any chances. Your body has to produce ofr you both until the 2nd trimester when the placenta begins to produce for the baby.
- angie
February 28, 2008 2:44 p.m.
To Becky in Kansas - My daughter-in-law was also diagnosed with placenta previa and went to the hospital with bleeding. Her doctor ordered bedrest and scheduled a c-section for the 35th week. She went back to get admitted to the hospital for the C-section and the Dr. told her that her previa was gone and she could go home and wait to go into labor. She is fine and we are still waiting. The rest really worked and she didn't actually have to stay in bed just off her feet. She worked from home on a laptop computer. Good luck and God bless.
- Lorinda
February 28, 2008 11:53 a.m.
Glad to see a blog like this from Mayo! My co-blogger Kay Krhin and I write a new parents' blog www.startribune.com/cribsheet at the Star Tribune and are always looking for discussions like this to link to. Good luck! May
- Chen May Yee
February 28, 2008 10:19 a.m.
Ohh, Ms. Mary you are so great! I promise she is the best midwife! I happen to be one of her patients! Thanks to Mary we had a healthy little girl...Mary is very knowledgeable! You Go Mary! Great first Blog.
- A. Hansen
February 28, 2008 8:48 a.m.
I am 29 and my husband and I are trying to start a family. For the past year I have suffered from Chronic Tension Headaches (stable). It has caused both depression and anxiety which I am currently be treated for by my doctor. I am a little nervous as I will have to be taken off some of my medication. I am just curious if others have experienced the condition I have and becoming a new parent.
- B. Stanford
February 28, 2008 3:19 a.m.
I am going to have third baby.I am 41 and my wife is 36. She is 32 week now. She feel he body is extremely heating/hot compare to the prevoius one. Is this normal.
- D.Mariadass
February 28, 2008 12:21 a.m.
My wife is also pregnant with second baby and has been diagnosed with gestational diabetes. She is in her 35th week and has fasting sugar level up to 140 mg/dl and RBS above 180 mg/dl. She was hospitalized last night for observation. So far the baby is fine, but what, if anything, can be done to reduce these occurrances? As far as I know, her doctor has advised her to control sugar by by taking sugar free diet told her to avoid wheat flour take diet bread. Previously, she delivered a baby of complete term of 40 weeks. Due to long labour of six hours, the feotal heart distress and baby inhalled mechonium, the doctor decided C-section. Due to this my last baby developed respiratory problem and kept in ventilator for 24 days. The condition of my wife is same, as was for previous pregnancy. It is serious?Please help.
- Muhammad
February 27, 2008 9:44 p.m.
Grandma: The same thing happen to my sister, she had 2 kids, was done with having children (they youngest was 4) so she was just getting to the easier stage of children when she found out she was pregnant. She was not happy, as this was the least she expected, she felt guilty for not being happy, but in time she became attached in the pregnancy and is very close to all three children. She will feel the joy, just going to take some time, best advice is to listen... and be there.
- Holly
February 27, 2008 8:47 p.m.
I am nearly 39 and I am expecting my 5 baby. It will also be my 5th c-section. I wonder if anyone else has had this many c-sections.
- Julie B
February 27, 2008 8:46 p.m.
I read some previous posters assuming that late 30's is too old. It's not!! I'm glad to say that I had my first baby at 40 and now a second pregnancy (8 wks) at 43. I also have two friends (40 and 42) that are currently pregnant also...and all the pregnancies are natural.
- Kate
February 27, 2008 6:55 p.m.
my nearly 39 year old daughter and 40 year old son in law are 3 mo. pregnant with an unplanned child. They have a 3 year old that took a long time to conceive. They are not handling this pregancy very well and my daughter says she doesn't feel the joy she felt the first time and feels "disconntected." I am excited to be having a new grandchild, but heartbroken that they are so upset. How do I deal with all of this?
- grandma
February 27, 2008 2:49 p.m.
Patricia, as i said in an earlier post that I am nearly 39 and trying for the first time. My dr did warn me that I am running out of time, but because I am healthly otherwise and have taken care of my self that I could safely have children through age 43ish. Then I may be getting into some trouble, but there are many women out there who are having children later in life. There was a post from a woman in her second marriage who is 48. Where did her blog go?
- Paula - NNY
February 27, 2008 1:51 p.m.
It's been fun reading your posts! I'm excited to read encourging words from many of you. I'm 37 and feel like it's too late for me to have a baby. I'm scared of having an unhealthy baby. Am I being selfish?? Wish I wasn't so worried about every little thing. Anyone on the same page with me? Does anyone have advice they'd like to share?
- Patricia
February 27, 2008 1:50 p.m.
Has anyone had to take progesterone during their pregnancy? My daughter had one miscarriage and now is pregnant again. They put her on progesterone and now her levels are fluctuating. The doctor says she is out of danger of another miscarriage but she still worries...
- Sue
February 27, 2008 1:45 p.m.
Bonnie - if your having abdominal pain, you probably should check with your doctor. It could just be muscle pain. Your abdomen muscles will be stretching a lot in pregnacy or you might have over done it yesterday. Take it easy and if your in doubt or worried, I suggest contacting your doctor. There are some great pregnacy books out there to buy and keep on hand, they have come in handy a lot for me. I like the Mayo guide to pregnancy the best. I am 35 weeks along, and this is my first, I am 29. I had all sorts of anxiety over different things through out my pregnancy, but found comfort in finding good sources of information, such as, reading pregnancy books, talking to my doctor, asking my friends and family lots of questions, signing up for weekly pregnacy email updates and using good websites, such as this one, and the apa website: http://www.americanpregnancy.org/ I also got a pregnancy journal and organizer to help me be prepared for the baby and the changes in my life.
- Kerri
February 27, 2008 11:29 a.m.
Hello all! I'm 25 and am 14 weeks into my second pregnancy, it's fun and exciting as I have a 5 year old who's very interested in becoming a new big brother. And it's about time he realized he's not the center of the universe! :D As long as I eat well, get active and stay rested, I'm happy! I'm working with my midwife whom I've known all my life, (truly! she was my mother's midwife when I was born! :D)and I'm planing a home birth. I'm very excited for that! Anyone else thought about it?! * Note to Barbara about the pubic pain--> I am a NYS Licensed Massage Therapist, the stretching of the pubic symphysis can be a bit uncomfortable during pregnancy, other factors may include the individual's weight and any posture conditions. Seeing a massage therapist AND a chiropractor would be a great help in preventing this condition and also it's treatment. Pregnancy massage is great no matter what! I need mine! :D Keep on Keepin' up!
- Shawn Marie ~ NY
February 27, 2008 10:46 a.m.
I am 48, in my 2nd marriage with a younger man, & am currently awaiting a preg. test in a week to see if our invitro worked. I'd like to hear other mothers of "advanced maternal age" share their stories of pregnancy, birth, .... What types of comments did you receive?
- Donna in Virginia
February 27, 2008 9:40 a.m.
I am 5weeks and 4 days pregnant. This is our third pregnancy. I miscarried the first two. I am feeling excited and very nervous. I did some crouching down alot yesterday and I was in pain all last night. I am just always afraid to do anything. I am really trying to relax but it is so hard. Any advice?
- Bonnie-Little Rock, Ar
February 27, 2008 9:04 a.m.
My daughter-in-law is also pregnant and has been diagnosed with marginal placenta previa. She is in her 31st week and has had three bouts with bleeding. She was hospitalized last night for observation. So far the baby is fine, but what, if anything, can be done to reduce these occurrances? As far as I know, her doctor has not told her what to avoid or if she needs bedrest. Is this a serious condition? Please help.
- Becky - Southeast Kansas
February 27, 2008 8:58 a.m.
I'm very excited to finally be pregnant! I'm 31 and this is our first baby. I'm 8 wks along. I feel anxious sometimes and then I remind myself of the millions of women with no or a sliver of the information at their fingertips to protect themselves and their baby who managed healthy pregnancies. I do feel anxious about other things like: my career and my body's changes. I'm not vain, but I really enjoy working out and staying in shape, and I work hard at it, and I do get nervous that once I'm unable to do all my activities (like tennis) that I will become cranky and lazy. Do others have these feelings? If so, what do you tell yourself to make yourself feel like this is not the end of the world as you know it? I know once I have the baby, there will be little else on my mind but him/her, but for now, these are my anxieties. BTW Becca: The gender of the baby is usually determinable at 18 to 26 wks using an ultrasound.
- Roslynn
February 27, 2008 7:54 a.m.
my daughter found out about this condition on her 4th pregnancy: http://www.babycentre.co.uk/pregnancy/antenatalhealth/physicalhealth/pelvicpain/ Introduction One problem that many pregnant women complain about is pubic pain. Yet doctors and midwives often dismiss this pain as either 'inconsequential', 'unfixable', or 'just one of those pregnancy discomforts that have to be endured'. Occasionally, some uninformed doctors have even erroneously told women that such pubic pain means that they would need an elective cesarean section in order not to permanently damage that area during birth, or as a result of prior damage to the area. Yet none of this is true. Pubic pain in pregnancy is certainly not 'inconsequential'; Kmom knows from experience that it can be very difficult to deal with. Although many doctors and midwives do not know what causes it or how to fix it, many women are able to get improvement or relief with chiropractic treatment or osteopathic manipulation. It is not s
- Barbara Gordon
February 27, 2008 7:35 a.m.
I am very excited about this blog. Thanks to everybody for taking the time to make their comments and especially to Ms Murry for creating it! I am shortly going to be 39 and my husband and I are trying for the first time to have a little one. I have never before been pregnant. He had his vasectomy reversed in November '07 after ~8 years. No luck yet, but its only been 3 1/2 months. (No pressure, honey) Does anybody have any experience with this type of situation?
- Paula - NNY
February 27, 2008 6:41 a.m.
I have a 20 year old and a 3year old what a difference in not only the thing to buy but the ways to take care of a new baby.
- DeeAnna Forbes
February 27, 2008 12:50 a.m.
Mary, this blog is so timely for me. I am at about 7 weeks into my second pregnancy and I have been wondering the same things. How do we have so many healthy people in this world when our moms, in their ignorance 30 years ago, drank, smoked and took diet pills during their pregnancies? I can't imagine what it will be like for our daughters!
- JB
February 27, 2008 12:08 a.m.
I have been married for almost 3 years and finally got pregnant. I am now in my 9th week, but have not enjoyed it yet or got all excited about the pregnancy because I have been more nauseaus than anything else. What I did notice, I loved my meat, but these days, if I can stay without it, I am more than happy to. What I also noticed, the amount of advise you receive on a daily basis. I am not on any special dieet, but try to keep to the fruits as that is all I crave the whole day. I did not know that you may not eat certain cheeses ect. But hey, the previous generation survived, why can't ours???
- Danniel
February 27, 2008 12:04 a.m.
I had a major blod clot in my IVC after my second pregnancy a few months ago -- I was very lucky that the doctors found it; my only symptom: what I thought was heartburn. In any case I have been told that I can't go back on the pill and that I should not have any more babies as the risk is just too high. What is your opinion? I am healthy, active, slim and would like to have more children. The clot was very big (over 2cm and a solid round ball) but after lots of blood work it appears to have been mechanical. In addition it appears after an MRV that I have a second blocked vein (but it looks like it was damaged/scarred).
- SPrice
February 25, 2008 4:10 p.m.
When can you determine the baby's gender? Becca 6 weeks 6 days
- Becca
February 22, 2008 6:49 p.m.
I got pregnant after 5 years of marriage therefore I was really, really expecting this baby. These days internet provides pregnant women with information regarding do's and dont's, which is very good in order to have healthy babies as well as healthy moms. I didn't have a problem reducing my activities during my pregnancy as I was happy enough to be pregnant.
- Elsa Sigit
February 22, 2008 5:03 p.m.
Marta: the part you wrote :There should be a place for pregnant women who would like to be practical and efficient while preventing their newborns from intoxication of poisonous products. I totally agree with you. All the new rules.... I had no idea I could not drink decaf pepermint tea?? I am trying to prepare myself before I get pregnant and wow so many different things to know...
- Holly Gatto
February 22, 2008 3:16 p.m.
I agree with all these posts. This is my first pregnancy and I do feel as though I cannot do anything. My old life went out the door and now everyone babies me, carrying things for me, asking me how I am all the time; every time I see someone, pregnancy is all they ask me about. I must say, it's better to have people care than not though. I miss turkey clubs and hot dogs and wine and real coffee. The baby and maternity industry must be a billion dollar one because sometimes I am so overwhelmed by the things I "need" that I just don't want anything. There should be a place for pregnant women who would like to be practical and efficient while preventing their newborns from intoxication of poisonous products.
- Marta
February 22, 2008 1:28 p.m.
Ah yes...diaper warmers, flat screen video monitors, and jogging strollers are just a few of the "most registered for" items at popular baby stores. I am just entering my fourteenth week of pregnancy and I feel completely uneducated when it comes to baby needs. I was looking at crib mattresses the other day and the sales rep tried to talk me into buying "organic"! I never gave organic bedding any thought to tell you the truth, but after her lengthy sales pitch, I was sucked in! Lucky for me I have my husband to keep my feet on the ground when it comes to smart shopping!
- Renee
February 22, 2008 8:36 a.m.
I am having the second baby and I haven't bought much of anything. We set up a basinet with our first and haven't even bothered with our second. We don't have a super big baby store and I am not caught up in all the hype. It seems all that babies need is a couple of outfits, a bottle if you are going that way, and a nice set of arms to hold him.
- Leah
February 22, 2008 7:27 a.m.
I found the only "things" that were a tremendous help to me were: BabyBjorn and the Boppy nursing pillow. I hardly even used the changing table. Most times he was changed on the floor or bed! My son never used his crib! He co-slept with me until he was 2 yrs. then went straight to his big bed. He never had sippy cups either. Went straight from nursing to regular cups when he was 2 yrs. It's easy to get sucked into buying all these neat gadgets but in the long run you will barely use them. I'm pregnant again (at 40 yrs. old!) and I learned my lesson the first time. Hope this helps any first time moms out there.
- Traci
February 21, 2008 8:10 p.m.
Wow, thanks so much for you blog. I am just in the beginning stage of trying to become pregnant and I am so overwhelmed with so many concerns, it's really hard to keep up with all the information. Like is it o.k for me to eat cottage cheese or not? Every site says something different. Especially trying to get pregnant it's so hard to know what I can have, what I can't. It seemed so much easier 20 years ago...
- Holly
February 21, 2008 2:25 p.m.
We never needed the baby swing or the full-size high chair. And the best baby bath tub I ever found was the kitchen sink! And measuring cups make great bath toys.
- Jacquie
February 21, 2008 11:05 a.m.
Exactly! I bought the little lace-trimmed bassinette that my baby just HAD to have... but never used. And the screen-covered outdoor play yard? Absolutely freaked him out. But the BabyBjorn? From heaven.
- Jennifer
February 21, 2008 10:07 a.m.
Aside from the fantastic breast pumps out these days, I don't know how many of the "things" were really necessary. Different people told us that we "must have" this swing or that bouncy seat... but in reality she hardly used any of those items. We found that they just take up space.
- Julie
February 21, 2008 10:00 a.m.
Hi! This was a great idea. And it is true, there are many new rules for pregnant women. I am 23yrs. old and we are expecting our second child. My first pregnancy was wonderful, I was rarely sick and I was able to have a natural birth. Only 5 years later, things have definitely changed, it seems that prenatal vitamins are not enough. They suggest Omega 3 vitamins, yoga, no fish, and many more things. It's hard enough finding a stay at home job or remembering to take a vitamin everyday or waiting for the test results to see if your baby may have down syndrome because of all the test the doctor suggests your to have. It's all very exhausting but the end result is all worth it!
- Lelia
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