OK, so with MS I've had Sciatica before. But it was always in my left side. I had heat therapy for it and other methods of pain relief even up to going to the midnight ER for steroid shots it. But now...
Sciatic nerve pain (not full on sciatica) has been hitting me to wake me up, and it gets where I can't go back to sleep. I know it's a pregnancy thing at this point. It was, originally, just hitting me in one side at a time. But now it hits one side, stays, and hits the other. So no matter which side I turn to lay on it is there! I do have to say that it is the most annoying thing about the pregnancy so far.
LBG has me on a timer: When she wants me to get up and get moving, she sends the shooting pain through my sciatic nerves and makes it so tossing and turning is useless.
I don't know if it's because I'm in a different bed right now or not (I've been down at Yale for the past few days and the both sides thing has happened every morning). I know I got it at least one side in my normal bed, but I also remember turning over and it being okay. We have the memory foam on the bed at the house. It was always my right side there. I'll keep a mental note and do a status report after I get back to my normal sleeping arrangements (although the more I think about it the more I think it might have started that way, but it was like this before I came down to Yale, too). I mean, she is getting bigger, so it's entirely possible its now in both legs.
And it's not like this is full-on sciatica (like it can get with MS), so far it's just really annoying pain in my... outer thighs (you thought I was going to say butt!). But I know it's along the sciatic nerve because I've dealt with that beast so many times.
It's not LBG's fault, she's just settling into her "final" position. It's just amazing the timing she has. According to her scheduling, she'll start the labor around 9/10 am. We'll see how true that prediction is in a little over a month (OMG! JUST A FEW WEEKS!).
Most people start to feel this paid around the third trimester, but they get it when they're standing or sitting. I do think it's a bit odd that I get it when I lay down, and feel better when I'm up and about. If I'm sitting right after it doesn't go completely away, but it's a very dull sensation that is ignorable. That's what I'm doing now, and I have to concentrate on the feeling to describe it, because it's on it's way out for the day... I hope.
I'm a little worried about it during labor. Is sciatic nerve pain something I need to worry about during labor? Does it rear it's ugly head at that time, or should it be past that point? They say (okay, and you've gotta understand whenever I say "they say" I'm talking about the people from What to Expect) that it'll continue a little past pregnancy as my hips realign themselves.
I always feel like I'm talking about a car when I say realign. But it's true. My hips have been popping more and more these last few weeks. At first it was just getting out of bed, which is understandable given the struggle it can be sometimes with the covers. But now, it's even simply getting out of the car. In fact yesterday, when I was getting out of the car, I had to stop for a second to prevent that from happening because I could feel it press against the sciatic nerve for a moment while it tried. I didn't want double the pain because of that. I mean, my hip popped before I was pregnant quite a bit, too, but now I'm aware of it for different reasons.
Anyway, if you know about sciatic pain and pregnancy, please let me know if it happens during labor.
Random Baby Name Generator
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Monday, December 7, 2009
Birth Plan
So Chris and I have been talking over the last week about a birth plan. It's confusing, even though it probably shouldn't be. We're not being super picky on it because of the facilities. I mean, ideally I've always wanted to do a water birth, but there are just no facilities for that locally. So, I'm going with a local hospital. They don't offer a walking epidural there, so there goes that preference. I'm doing okay at accepting it for what it is, we both wanted local and close more than we wanted anything else. I mean, even though Tulsa's got some great hospitals I don't know my way around T-Town that well to worry about it. And I realize now that I wouldn't be the one driving, but I don't want to be in labor and dealing with someone else dealing with traffic. So, local Owasso hospital is the best.
As for the actual birth plan... still working on it.
As for the actual birth plan... still working on it.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Dr. in a routine
So today I had another doctor's appointment with my ob-gyn to check on LBG. All si well. I asked a few questions about SIDS, because we're trying to get her room ready and Chris and i have been having thermostat wars... which got me wondering what the right temperature would be for her. My doc didn't really know, and said to ask the pediatrician (when Chris and I finally decide on one).
Other than that, a perfectly routine check: pee in a cup, weight (has been steadily hanging around the same pound-age), blood pressure, measure belly, heartrate (150), and any questions I might have.
Other than that, we start paying on her part of the delivery now before the baby comes. Not all of it, but it's based on an estimate. We're doing this with the hospital too. They might change, but it's a good chance they'll be pretty spot on.
I keep waiting to see when my next ultrasound will be. I want to know if LBG is breeched or if she's doing well. I guess it's going to be closer to due date time. Doctors don't want to do too many of them.
Other than that, a perfectly routine check: pee in a cup, weight (has been steadily hanging around the same pound-age), blood pressure, measure belly, heartrate (150), and any questions I might have.
Other than that, we start paying on her part of the delivery now before the baby comes. Not all of it, but it's based on an estimate. We're doing this with the hospital too. They might change, but it's a good chance they'll be pretty spot on.
I keep waiting to see when my next ultrasound will be. I want to know if LBG is breeched or if she's doing well. I guess it's going to be closer to due date time. Doctors don't want to do too many of them.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Pregnant vs MS
Today is the first day during the pregnancy that I've felt like I had MS again. I was tired, and my legs were all tingly for a few hours. Everything felt heavy, and it was hard to do stuff, even decorate the miniature tree we have. I couldn't bring myself to tackle the big one. I resigned myself to taking a nap even. First time in a while I've done that.
But I have to look at not what's happened today, but this past week. It's Thanksgiving week, so of course, it's been busy. (more on Job)
There was one other weird feeling I had today, that I think is pregnancy related, but got me a little worried. On my lower abdomen, close to my navel, I had a sensation of needle pricks. Not one at a time, but a line of a bunch of them. And not pins and needles, or the tingly feeling, but scratchy pointy needles, all at once... in a line. It's still there, it comes and goes now, but it lasted a while. I thought maybe LBG scratched me, because it felt like it was coming from inside. It's got to be one of the odder sensations, and has me a bit worried. But, I'm sure it's nothing. Just wanted to document that it started today, sometime before I took my nap because I remember feeling for it when I laid down and it was still there.
Alright, I should try to get some sleep.
But I have to look at not what's happened today, but this past week. It's Thanksgiving week, so of course, it's been busy. (more on Job)
There was one other weird feeling I had today, that I think is pregnancy related, but got me a little worried. On my lower abdomen, close to my navel, I had a sensation of needle pricks. Not one at a time, but a line of a bunch of them. And not pins and needles, or the tingly feeling, but scratchy pointy needles, all at once... in a line. It's still there, it comes and goes now, but it lasted a while. I thought maybe LBG scratched me, because it felt like it was coming from inside. It's got to be one of the odder sensations, and has me a bit worried. But, I'm sure it's nothing. Just wanted to document that it started today, sometime before I took my nap because I remember feeling for it when I laid down and it was still there.
Alright, I should try to get some sleep.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
How To Travel With Young Kids
I found this article in Rachael Ray's Magazine and loved it. I wanted to keep the article for future reference, but needed to get rid of the magazine... clutter and all. So here it is, for someday in the future:
How to Travel with Young Kids
If you've been hesitant to take a family trip with little tykes in tow, fear no more.
By Besha Rodell Photography by Lori Foy
Fear
I’ll lose her in the crowd!
Solution
Dress your child in bright colors so she’s easy to spot. An ID bracelet is a good idea—try one from ID on Me ($14, idonme.com). And, just in case, carry your child’s photo with you.
Fear
My darling will turn into a screaming monster on the plane.
Solution
That’s usually due to pressure-induced earaches, which are the worst during takeoff and landing. Encourage constant swallowing during those times. Infants get a bottle or a breast; give older kids chewing gum or hard candy.
Fear
My child will get bored in the car.
Solution
Make stops every few hours: Find spots where you can picnic and run around. Remember to bring plenty of snacks and water.
Fear
Jet lag will clobber the poor dear.
Solution
In the days leading up to the trip, move bedtime at home closer to bedtime at the destination, but don’t worry too much. Children are much more adaptable to time changes—their bodies respond to dark and light as much as to a schedule.
Fear
I won’t eke out one moment of relaxation.
Solution
You set the tone for your family vacation, so do your best to remain stress-free. Start out well rested: Don’t leave Friday after a hectic week at work. And each parent should have an afternoon alone, to get a massage or read by the pool.
Fear
She’ll get cranky while we’re seeing the sights.
Solution
Set a loose itinerary. If you planned to hit a museum but your child is having a blast at the pool, go with the flow. Also, kids are creatures of habit, so stay at just one hotel if possible.
Fear
My kid will puke before we even get there.
Solution
Dramamine is safe for most kids, but check with your doc, and if your child is prone to motion sickness, pack plastic bags, wipes and a change of clothes.
Fear
Getting through the airport will be a nightmare.
Solution
Start with the right luggage, like the streamlined Eagle Creek’s Pack- It system (from $8, eaglecreek.com). Instead of carrying a car seat with you, bring a plane-safe harness that can fit in your purse ($75, kidsflysafe.com). Rent hefty equipment, such as car seats and cribs, at your destination.
THE PERKS
Unexpected benefits of traveling with little ones.
1. You have license to be a kid again. Drop the sophisticated act and whoop it up—on a zip line, waterslide or the hotel bed. Turns out it’s a lot more fun than taking an architecture tour.
2. Your children will see a new side of you. Away from carpools and bosses, you’ll have time to be silly. Your bond will be strengthened.
3. You’ll be treated better. Most people you come across—taxi drivers, hotel clerks—will be friendlier now that you have a charming child in tow.
4. You’ll bring home a new kid, one who’s more patient, worldly and, if you’re lucky, open to new experiences.
THE COUNTDOWN
Two months before
Include your child in the planning process. Show him places you are considering and let him help choose activities. The more involved he is, the less anxiety he’ll feel.
One month before
Call airlines and hotels and ask about kid-friendly amenities.
The airline:
• Do you provide infant bassinets?
• Do you have special meals for children?
• Does the in-flight entertainment include kid-specific games or movies?
The hotel:
• Do you provide cribs?
• Is there a pool, and does it have a shallow end?
• Are there activities for kids, such as a movie night?
Two weeks before
Buy a special backpack. Over the next two weeks, fill it with inexpensive new toys, but don’t let him play with anything until you’re on the road. Keep a few surprises socked away in your purse, to be revealed along the way.
One week before
At bedtime, read them books about traveling, like Lisa’s Airplane Trip ($12, madallie.com), and show them where you’re going on a globe or in an atlas.
Four days before
Cook a meal or visit a restaurant that serves the type of food you’re likely to encounter on your trip.
One day before
Have your child pick one special toy or blanket that will be a comfort to her.
THE STORIES
Tricks of the trade from family-travel bloggers.
"I always make my kids carry their own luggage. It saves the parents' backs and teaches the kids responsibility. When my son was 3, he complained about it, so I put a Superman cape on him and told him that his hero always hauled his own load. He proudly wheeled his suitcase through the airport and loved when travelers called out, 'Look, it's Superman!'"
- Amy Graff, blogger for Best Western and the San Francisco Chronicle
"I buy strips of 'admit one' tickets and hand them out for good behavior. My boys cash them in at the end of our trip for souvenirs at $1 per ticket. That way, I avoid the 'Can I have that?' at every store."
- Jennifer Michaels, familytravelplanet.com
"Each family member calls the shots for one afternoon. I get my shopping in, my husband has his nature walk, and each kid chooses a favorite activity. We're teaching the kids the art of compromise."
- Kara Williams, travelingmamas.com
*Prices and other details were accurate when we published this article in October 2009.
How to Travel with Young Kids
If you've been hesitant to take a family trip with little tykes in tow, fear no more.
By Besha Rodell Photography by Lori Foy
Fear
I’ll lose her in the crowd!
Solution
Dress your child in bright colors so she’s easy to spot. An ID bracelet is a good idea—try one from ID on Me ($14, idonme.com). And, just in case, carry your child’s photo with you.
Fear
My darling will turn into a screaming monster on the plane.
Solution
That’s usually due to pressure-induced earaches, which are the worst during takeoff and landing. Encourage constant swallowing during those times. Infants get a bottle or a breast; give older kids chewing gum or hard candy.
Fear
My child will get bored in the car.
Solution
Make stops every few hours: Find spots where you can picnic and run around. Remember to bring plenty of snacks and water.
Fear
Jet lag will clobber the poor dear.
Solution
In the days leading up to the trip, move bedtime at home closer to bedtime at the destination, but don’t worry too much. Children are much more adaptable to time changes—their bodies respond to dark and light as much as to a schedule.
Fear
I won’t eke out one moment of relaxation.
Solution
You set the tone for your family vacation, so do your best to remain stress-free. Start out well rested: Don’t leave Friday after a hectic week at work. And each parent should have an afternoon alone, to get a massage or read by the pool.
Fear
She’ll get cranky while we’re seeing the sights.
Solution
Set a loose itinerary. If you planned to hit a museum but your child is having a blast at the pool, go with the flow. Also, kids are creatures of habit, so stay at just one hotel if possible.
Fear
My kid will puke before we even get there.
Solution
Dramamine is safe for most kids, but check with your doc, and if your child is prone to motion sickness, pack plastic bags, wipes and a change of clothes.
Fear
Getting through the airport will be a nightmare.
Solution
Start with the right luggage, like the streamlined Eagle Creek’s Pack- It system (from $8, eaglecreek.com). Instead of carrying a car seat with you, bring a plane-safe harness that can fit in your purse ($75, kidsflysafe.com). Rent hefty equipment, such as car seats and cribs, at your destination.
THE PERKS
Unexpected benefits of traveling with little ones.
1. You have license to be a kid again. Drop the sophisticated act and whoop it up—on a zip line, waterslide or the hotel bed. Turns out it’s a lot more fun than taking an architecture tour.
2. Your children will see a new side of you. Away from carpools and bosses, you’ll have time to be silly. Your bond will be strengthened.
3. You’ll be treated better. Most people you come across—taxi drivers, hotel clerks—will be friendlier now that you have a charming child in tow.
4. You’ll bring home a new kid, one who’s more patient, worldly and, if you’re lucky, open to new experiences.
THE COUNTDOWN
Two months before
Include your child in the planning process. Show him places you are considering and let him help choose activities. The more involved he is, the less anxiety he’ll feel.
One month before
Call airlines and hotels and ask about kid-friendly amenities.
The airline:
• Do you provide infant bassinets?
• Do you have special meals for children?
• Does the in-flight entertainment include kid-specific games or movies?
The hotel:
• Do you provide cribs?
• Is there a pool, and does it have a shallow end?
• Are there activities for kids, such as a movie night?
Two weeks before
Buy a special backpack. Over the next two weeks, fill it with inexpensive new toys, but don’t let him play with anything until you’re on the road. Keep a few surprises socked away in your purse, to be revealed along the way.
One week before
At bedtime, read them books about traveling, like Lisa’s Airplane Trip ($12, madallie.com), and show them where you’re going on a globe or in an atlas.
Four days before
Cook a meal or visit a restaurant that serves the type of food you’re likely to encounter on your trip.
One day before
Have your child pick one special toy or blanket that will be a comfort to her.
THE STORIES
Tricks of the trade from family-travel bloggers.
"I always make my kids carry their own luggage. It saves the parents' backs and teaches the kids responsibility. When my son was 3, he complained about it, so I put a Superman cape on him and told him that his hero always hauled his own load. He proudly wheeled his suitcase through the airport and loved when travelers called out, 'Look, it's Superman!'"
- Amy Graff, blogger for Best Western and the San Francisco Chronicle
"I buy strips of 'admit one' tickets and hand them out for good behavior. My boys cash them in at the end of our trip for souvenirs at $1 per ticket. That way, I avoid the 'Can I have that?' at every store."
- Jennifer Michaels, familytravelplanet.com
"Each family member calls the shots for one afternoon. I get my shopping in, my husband has his nature walk, and each kid chooses a favorite activity. We're teaching the kids the art of compromise."
- Kara Williams, travelingmamas.com
*Prices and other details were accurate when we published this article in October 2009.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
3-D 4-D Imaging Take 2
So we went to Anticipation Studios today for the second time to see if LBG would let us take some pictures of her. This time went a bit better than last, and we got some really great pictures. She was moving around a little bit beforehand and my stomach was jumping, but it's as if she knew what we were doing and quickly quieted down. By the end of it she was wrapping herself more and more into a little ball (a quite impressive one at that. Her feet were over her head!).
Here are some photos from the session. Hope you Enjoy them!
Okay, baby... no more pictures... for now.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Ultrasound Video
This is the video from our ultrasound! It's sooo cool! Check it out:
www.AnticipationBabyView.com/AUSTUL/Baby0911111350.asf
www.AnticipationBabyView.com/AUSTUL/Baby0911111350.asf
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