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davejag
Mar 13, 2008, 11:23 PM
I am 29 weeks pregnant and my baby only moves below my belly button, and mostly on my right side. When I went to my doctors appointment today he told me he can't tell if the baby is breech or not. He told me that we'll have to wait for another two weeks, and then if he still can't tell, I will have to have another ultrasound. Why can't he tell where the head of the baby is? If the doctor says the baby is breech does that mean I have to have a
C-section? Does the baby still have time to turn? At what point would they do the C-section? I am just a bit worried I hope some one can help thanks.

Wondergirl
Mar 13, 2008, 11:29 PM
I am 29 weeks pregnant and my baby only moves below my belly button, and mostly on my right side. When I went to my doctors appointment today he told me he can't tell if the baby is breech or not. He told me that we'll have to wait for another two weeks, and then if he still can't tell, I will have to have another ultrasound. Why can't he tell where the head of the baby is? If the doctor says the baby is breech does that mean I have to have a
C-section? Does the baby still have time to turn? At what point would they do the C-section? I am just a bit worried I hope some one can help thanks.
At this point in the pregnancy, the baby still has room in which to tumble around. Soon the baby will fill all the space and tend to stay in one position. Sometimes that position is breech (feet first). During delivery, the doctor can sometimes turn a breech baby so it will emerge headfirst. A c-section isn't a guarantee even with a breech situation but it would make it easier if the doctor can't turn the baby.

I had one vaginal delivery and one c-section. I would take the c-section over the vaginal delivery any day!

davejag
Mar 13, 2008, 11:48 PM
Why is that? I heard that a C-section is so much harder on your body and it is so much harder to lose the baby weight. Can I make the decision to have a c-section or is that up to the doctor?

simoneaugie
Mar 14, 2008, 12:32 AM
If you are in an emergency situation, the doctor may feel a need to do a C-section. Without an emergency you can choose, unless you are railroaded. I've never had a C-section. My two babies were both vaginal deliveries without medication. The second was born at home, on the couch. That was great!

Find out about the Bradley Method. It uses the mood of the pregnant woman to determine what stage of labor she is in. It was right on for me.

nicki143
Mar 14, 2008, 02:47 AM
My friends baby was breech right up till she was going to have a c section then he moved there is still loads of time

Wondergirl
Mar 14, 2008, 09:44 AM
Why is that? I heard that a C-section is so much harder on your body and it is so much harder to lose the baby weight. Can I make the decision to have a c-section or is that up to the doctor?

With a vaginal delivery, the mother may have trouble sitting comfortably for a week or so, especially if an episiotomy was done. With a c-section, she would have to avoid a lot of bending and stretching for a week or two.

I don't know why you think a c-section would be harder on your body or make it hard to lose the baby weight. I didn't pig out during my pregnancies and didn't have extra weight from that, so getting back to my normal weight was no problem. Breastfeeding helps that process.

Vaginal deliveries are preferred. Lamaze training or Bradley preparation will help. Just remember that labor is a productive effort by your body -- a GOOD thing. The increasing strength of the contractions help push out that baby. The best thing to learn how to do is RELAX with instead of fight each contraction.

J_9
Mar 14, 2008, 11:13 AM
Okay, here's the shizzy from a Labor & Delivery nurse intern...

At 29 weeks baby still has plenty of time to turn, if indeed s/he is breech. When the doctor puts the Doppler on your belly to hear the heartbeat, where does he put it? Below your belly button or above? That will give me an idea if baby is breech or not. Also, there is a maneuver called the Leopold's Maneuver that tells us what position the baby is in. It's all just basically feeling your baby and feeling the particular lumps and bumps to tell us which part is the presenting part in the pelvic cavity.

As for birth... if your baby is indeed breech you will in fact have to have a C-Section. That is because if baby get's stuck coming out buttocks first, the head is still inside the vaginal canal and baby is not getting any oxygen. Babies who are breech and are born vaginally have a very high occurrence of cerebral palsy. Another concern is that the ubmilical cord my prolapse or the baby may have "jewlery," which simply means the cord is wrapped around the baby's neck. If that is the case, and the baby is delivered breech, it is usually born, if alive, very hypoxic.

So, you don't want to risk baby's life just because you would prefer to have a vaginal delivery. Having a C-Section makes you no less a woman, as some women used to believe.

davejag
Mar 14, 2008, 11:29 AM
Thanks a lot everyone, all those answers helped a lot. To answer the J_9 question the doctor puts the doppler below my belly that's where he always hears it. He can't push to hard on my belly due to the pain I have, if I have a c-section how much sooner before my due date can they take the baby?
The reason why I am asking is because I've just had to many problems with this pregnancy. For example last week I ended up in Labour and Delivery because of unbearable pain due to an infection, then at 15 weeks I was run of the road by police officer ( he was going to an accident scene, he didn't see me in time and ran into me), so I was in hospital for that. Then at 18 weeks my labour began and the doctor had to stop it and for a while I was put on bed rest, not to mention the bleeding that has come along with this pregnancy. Would it be better if I had a c-section because of everything?

J_9
Mar 14, 2008, 11:51 AM
If the doppler is below the bellybutton, most likely the baby is not breech. If the baby were breech, the heartbeat would be higher up, more like above your umbilicus.

Now, as for the C-Section and when they would take the baby. They can't take it any earlier than they would if the baby were being born vaginally. The baby needs to grow inside you, it's still growing and it's organs are maturing.

The minimum age of term is 34 weeks for some doctors and 36 weeks to others. HOWEVER, this does not mean that they will take the baby then because you are suffering infections, etc.

At this point, if born, baby would most likely be in NICU on a ventilator. You see, there are certain weeks during pregnancy when certain organs, hormones, bodily chemicals, etc are formed. At this point in time there is not enough surfactant in the baby's lungs to help it breathe should it be born now.

The longer the baby stays inside you the healthier it will be.

Wondergirl
Mar 14, 2008, 01:23 PM
hypoxic? surfactant??

We are just ordinary peepul, J_9!!

J_9
Mar 14, 2008, 01:34 PM
Sorry, I forget that as it's ordinary language to me now.

Hypoxic means that there is not enough oxygen to the brain and that can cause brain or other organ damage. Many children who have cerebral palsy were hypoxic during labor and delivery, or even during pregnancy. This means they lacked the adequate amount of oxygen.

Surfactant is a chemical produced by the body so that the lungs perform properly. If we don't have surfactant, we don't breathe and our lungs risk collapsing. It is produced around the 26th week of pregnancy but is not in high enough concentration until around the 34th week.

davejag
Mar 14, 2008, 01:49 PM
Oh I see what you mean that makes a big difference in time when the baby is ready to come out. Well thank you again for all the help I will speak with my doctor in a few weeks and then I will decide if I want a c-section or vaginal delivery.

J_9
Mar 14, 2008, 01:53 PM
Honey, you may not have a choice for a c-section or a delivery. If your baby is indeed breech, you will not have a choice... if labor does not progress in a timely manner (about 24 hours) you won't have a choice.

You see, pregnancy is all a guessing game until that precious bundle of joy is in your arms.

ang8318
Mar 14, 2008, 05:15 PM
As far as when they will do a c-section. My doc would NOT let me schedule mine before 38 weeks, she said anything earlier than that... there is a risk that the lungs may not be fully developed. I was very devastated when I found out I had to have a c-section, but now I am glad I did, as there were so many risks to me attempting vaginal delivery. Thanks to my c-section I have a healthy 3 month old son!

simoneaugie
Mar 14, 2008, 05:49 PM
It sounds as if you have a "high risk" pregnancy. Do what the doctor says.

It would be unsafe to have the baby at home. However, episiotomy... That is when they widen the vaginal opening... In Sweden the episiotomy rate is about 2%. In the USA it is about 98%. The women are close to the same size, so, go figure.

davejag
Mar 14, 2008, 07:58 PM
Thanks again for all the great answers it really helps, I just hope everything goes well. It just seems like I am a less of a person or mom to be because I am just so sick and tired of being pregnant. I know how that sounds I am just so tired and my morning sickness is still not gone, I am just having to many problems. I think I just imagined pregnancy a bit different it's a selfish of me to think that. I thought if I had a c-section or an induction I would have everything planned out, and not be so scared of going into labour and not knowing what to do. Am I less of a mom for wanting my baby out sooner.

Wondergirl
Mar 14, 2008, 09:07 PM
I am just so sick and tired of being pregnant. Am I less of a mom for wanting my baby out sooner.

Most of us have walked in your moccasins. I suspect any woman who loved every second of her pregnancy is lying. After the sixth month, you are physically uncomfortable, your skin and hair get oily even after you wash them, you can't see your feet, you have to pee a lot and know the location of every public bathroom in the county, sleep is interrupted by Baby moving around or kicking, and the last thing you feel is pretty. If, on top of all that, you are having a lot of sickness or other problems, you just want it to be over. It certainly isn't the wonderful experience you've read about. (You do get a place to rest your arms or a plate though.)

And then the baby arrives.

Chapter Two.

davejag
Mar 14, 2008, 10:46 PM
Thank you I am not alone, it feels good someone else feels the same way the women I have talked to have said they loved every minute of their pregnancy.

Wondergirl
Mar 15, 2008, 12:54 AM
Thank you I am not alone, it feels good someone else feels the same way the women I have talked to have said they loved every minute of their pregnancy.

When you hear that, just chuckle. Notice they aren't pregnant when they say that. It's always during the "afterglow" (probably after Baby's been potty trained or is finally married) that they say that.

davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 11:17 AM
When you hear that, just chuckle. Notice they aren't pregnant when they say that. It's always during the "afterglow" (probably after Baby's been potty trained or is finally married) that they say that.

Ha Ha Ha that is so true come to think of it everyone that says that to me isn't pregnant at the moment.

J_9
Mar 15, 2008, 11:18 AM
Hun, I know how uncomfortable the last few weeks of pregnancy can be. I did it 4 times, a glutton for punishment 4 times!! LOL

But, it was after the children were born that I said I loved every second of pregnancy, and I did, I could do without the aches and pains. But seeing the first smile, having baby fall asleep in my arms... I would suffer the last few months over and over again.

automansgirl
Mar 15, 2008, 11:37 AM
Even when I was pregnant, I enjoyed it... but not all of it. Pregnancy is so hard on your body, and there were a lot of days that I would just tell my husband I wanted the baby out! It's no easy task creating another human being. You certainly aren't less of a woman or a mom for feeling that way. Just try your best to enjoy while you can, because once you deliver you will miss being pregnant. I know you probably don't believe it, but those first couple of days you will miss the kicks and movements that let you know everything is okay.

I had a vaginal delivery, with some complications, but I am so glad I was able to deliver naturally. If there had been an emergency or the baby was breech I obviously would have been okay with c-section for the baby's sake. For most women c-sections are much harder on the body and it takes longer for your body to heal. I was slightly sore for two days after delivery, but I had more pain throughout my entire body from pushing than I did vaginally. I had no problems sitting. I had no tearing and no episiotomy, and now days most doctors don't do them unless absolutely necessary. I asked my doc how often he did episiotomies and I think he said it was only about 5% of the time. Anyway, just make sure to talk to your doctor about all the options and possibilities. Some women prefer natural and some prefer c-sect, but you never really know until you go through it. Until then, try your best to enjoy being pregnant. Pretty soon you'll have a newborn, you'll worry constantly, and even though you'll be able to lay in bed comfortably you still won't get any sleep. The lack of sleep will go away soon enough, but the constant worry never does!

Wondergirl
Mar 15, 2008, 11:48 AM
The lack of sleep will go away soon enough, but the constant worry never does!

LOL - I didn't sleep a full night until my kids were out of the house, in college or on their own!

FeelSoNumbZombie
Mar 15, 2008, 11:48 AM
Babies can flip to breech even during active labor, if small enough within the womb. Which is not usual, but it happens. Your doctor will take another ultrasound and decide what is best for the baby at that time. At 29 weeks, it is a bit premature to worry about the what-if's. Your MD is taking an inventory poll on what your baby may do or not do according to his/her size at this time and actual position at this time.
And you have every right to feel uncomfortable about the possibility of having to have a C-section. It is normal to feel this way. If I were you, I would call the MD and ask to speak with him to hopefully calm your fears and make him aware of your wishes.
Usually, after 8 hours of hard labor in a L&D room, a mother is more than happy to have a C-section. That is if the baby has not been physically affected due to the stress of labor, itself. After 8 hours, stress on both mother and baby become more evident in most instances and doctors decide upon C-section. Unless, the baby is breech in the last month of pregnancy. Than a C-Section is planned and most of the time, you will be able to even pick the date of birth and schedule your babies future birthday celebration date. You have at least another 8 weeks before the MD usually will tell you one way or another how the plan of action will take place for your babies birth. In either delivery, it has its triumphs and pitfalls. Just ask any woman who has endured labor for longer than 8 hours with intensity. And without their baby becoming hypoxic or stressed. Which means without oxygen. Then ask some mothers who underwent C-sections. You will find that not many decide to V-Bac, even with the MD option, which means try labor again before planning a C-section with their second child's delivery. Most of them, never want to chance enduring a long labor again, only to have the same possible outcome.

Chery
Mar 15, 2008, 12:11 PM
It sounds as if you have a "high risk" pregnancy. Do what the doctor says.

It would be unsafe to have the baby at home. However, episiotomy...That is when they widen the vaginal opening...In Sweden the episiotomy rate is about 2%. In the USA it is about 98%. The women are close to the same size, so, go figure.

Speaking just on the episiotomy.. it is done by a scalpel - a straight cut.. and 'razor' cuts like that take a lot longer to bind and heal again. It used to be mandatory in military hospitals until a study resulted in reports that even after years, the scar tissue would cause problems, i.e. itching and burning and swelling on hot days, so it is no longer mandatory because normal tears or ripping during birth heals faster and better without subsequent problems for most women.

J_9, as usual, is currect in suggesting that the longer the baby stays in, the better for it's development. To add to conditions she mentioned.. I was born in the 8th month and did not develop all of my 2d teeth - so that is just one example of the dangers of being born too early - and I was also born with a heart problem, my bones did not develop right and I have pain 24 hrs a day from my spine. I don't think any mother wants that for her child..

When my daughter went in to have my grandson, she did not plan on a C-Section, but after 5 hours and danger of stress to the baby, he had a 'sunroof' birth. They are both wonderful and happy - and so am I.

You are NOT bad in thinking it would be nice not to be pregnant anymore, and finally wanting it to happen - we all think that way at times and it's normal. We all want the same results - a good outcome and a happy baby.

Talk to your doctor for all the reassurance you need, and remember, we are here to help too.

Good luck dear, and keep us posted.

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J_9
Mar 15, 2008, 12:17 PM
Good to see you Chery!! Glad you piped in here. I forgot about the episiotomy. Most doctors I work for don't even do them any more. They do a perineal massage that slowly and gently stretches the perineum so that an episiotomy is not required.

They only do episiotomies these days if the baby seems to large to fit through the birth canal without a little extra room.

And, no dear, you are no less of a woman or mother to be feeling the way you are. We all go through feelings of ambivalence during pregnancy at one stage or another. It is very natural to be feeling the way you are.

Chery
Mar 15, 2008, 01:33 PM
Hey, J... good to see you too.

With your expertise and this site, women are luckier than before. They get more experience and free information and a lot more patience than at the doctor's office most of the time.

With all the information collected from personal and professional experience here - they can't go wrong, and that's why I'm glad that AMHD exists and grateful to be a part of it.

I think the more we remember and pass on, the better young moms-to-be can be reassured that they came to the right place.

Hope you and the family are doing fine and that you will have a relaxing weekend.

XXXOOO.
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davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 03:29 PM
Well I have another question why are women induced before their due date? As well can my baby be lying side ways? The reason why I am asking is because when the doctor tries to find the heartbeat it is always below my belly button, but I only feel movement below my belly button never above.

J_9
Mar 15, 2008, 03:35 PM
The baby can be in what is called transverse lie, which means he/she is lying sideways, that is always a possibility. But again, you still have a lot of time for the baby to turn.

Why do they induce early? Usually it is due to dangers to the health of the baby and/or mother. Some instances would be oligohydramnios, which means too little amniotic fluid (this happened to me with my 3rd child)... fetal stress as evidenced by a stress test. This would mean that the doctor gives a little pitocin to induce some slight contractions. When mom has a contraction and the baby's heartbeat decreases by a certain number of beats, baby is in distress and needs to be delivered.

Another reason would be PIH (pregnancy induced hypertension (preeclampsia)) or Eclampsia where Mom's blood pressure has skyrocketed so high both the baby's and the mother's lives are in danger.

There are many other reasons, but those are the most common.

davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 04:01 PM
Oh I see I figured the baby maybe lying side ways just because I only feel it kick or move on that one side.
My friends and family have told me different things on how to dress the baby for the first few days, because the baby is due in late May my husband and I have gotten little outfits that don't always have the legs covered up. Should the baby have it's legs covered all time? I know that seems like a silly question but I am not sure what to do.

J_9
Mar 15, 2008, 04:05 PM
You do whatever you feel comfortable with. If you're hot, baby's going to be hot. If your cold... well, you got the point.

You see babies are sensitive to temperature changes, but primarily in the first few days of life. Other than that, they have the same body temp we do 98.6F, and should be treated as such.

If it's warm, I don't know where you live, and you wrap the baby up too warmly, you risk overheating him/her.

Now, if you're like me, I can't stand the heat and keep my air way low and it gets pretty cold in the house, I would wrap baby up a bit.

But for the most part, when you are comfortable at a certain temp, dress baby the same way you would be dressed. If it's cool, however, always remember to keep head and feet covered as this is where most heat is lost.

davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 04:09 PM
Yah that sounds good see why can't you be sister in law? I could just call when I needed something. As well what about a baby positioner do you need one or no?

J_9
Mar 15, 2008, 04:10 PM
Baby positioner?

davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 04:15 PM
Ya you put in the crib maybe we just have that in canada so the baby doesn't roll

J_9
Mar 15, 2008, 04:17 PM
Oh, no, baby won't roll for around 3 months.

Always but baby back to bed. That means put baby on his or her back when putting it to bed. A positioner isn't necessary.

The less you have in the crib the less chance of suffocation.

DoulaLC
Mar 15, 2008, 04:31 PM
I am 29 weeks pregnant and my baby only moves below my belly button, and mostly on my right side. When I went to my doctors appointment today he told me he can't tell if the baby is breech or not. He told me that we'll have to wait for another two weeks, and then if he still can't tell, I will have to have another ultrasound. Why can't he tell where the head of the baby is? If the doctor says the baby is breech does that mean I have to have a
C-section? Does the baby still have time to turn? At what point would they do the C-section? I am just a bit worried I hope some one can help thanks.

Other reasons it can be difficult to determine baby's position are the amount of amniotic fluid at the time, location of the placenta, how rigid mom's belly is at the time, and not being able to decern body parts.

As the others have said, you have plenty of time. At this stage, most babies are still deciding where they are most comfortable... :) Most will be head down by 34 weeks, and even more so by 36 weeks. Certainly some turn later, but it is not as common. If baby were to be breech at 34-36 weeks, you have several options to try and encourage baby to move head down. I have had two moms recently go from breech and transverse to vertex with help from their chiropractor who is trained in using the Webster technique. There are a number of positions you can use as well, and some unsual possibilities using water, sound, and light... as well as the possibility of your doctor performing an external version. The success rate of which again depends on baby's position, placenta location, and your doctor's experience. Some will attempt it, some won't bother.

Very few OBs these days have a good deal of experience in breech deliveries... and the training is pretty minimal. There are a number of techniques for this, but not too many parents want to have their doctor get additional practice on them! While you might have the option with subsequent babies, depending on the sort of breech presentation and the doctor's comfort and experience level, it is not common with a first birth.

Just to add to what J_9 mentioned about reasons for inductions... two more that are becoming increasingly common are "big baby" syndrome and going passed due dates. There is great debate on just how medically necessary either are unless true concerns are present. Birthing babies has become increasingly expensive for many OBs, causing some to get out of catching babies altogether. Currently there is a more medically managed system in place... hence another reason for the increase in the last number of years.

davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 04:34 PM
Oh, no, baby won't roll for around 3 months.

Always but baby back to bed. That means put baby on his or her back when putting it to bed. A positioner isn't necessary.

The less you have in the crib the less chance of suffocation.


At what point do you recommend putting the baby in the crib for the night, I thought maybe after a month or two what do you think?

J_9
Mar 15, 2008, 04:35 PM
Where you going to put baby before then? I put all 4 of mine in their crib as soon as we got home. Had to "teach" them to sleep in their own rooms from the get go. LOL

I did have a bassinet, but it was downstairs with me where the babies would sleep during the day so that I did not have to go up and down the stairs.

davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 04:40 PM
Other reasons why it can be difficult to determine baby's position are the amount of amniotic fluid at the time, location of the placenta, how rigid mom's belly is at the time, and not being able to decern body parts.

As the others have said, you have plenty of time. At this stage, most babies are still deciding where they are most comfortable....:) Most will be head down by 34 weeks, and even more so by 36 weeks. Certainly some turn later, but it is not as common. If baby were to be breech at 34-36 weeks, you have several options to try and encourage baby to move head down. I have had two moms recently go from breech and transverse to vertex with help from their chiropractor who is trained in using the Webster technique. There are a number of positions you can use as well, and some unsual possibilities using water, sound, and light....as well as the possibility of your doctor performing an external version. The success rate of which again depends on baby's position, placenta location, and your doctor's experience. Some will attempt it, some won't bother.

Very few OBs these days have a good deal of experience in breech deliveries....and the training is pretty minimal. There are a number of techniques for this, but not too many parents want to have their doctor get additional practice on them! While you might have the option with sbsequent babies, depending on the sort of breech presentation and the doctor's comfort and experience level, it is not common with a first birth.

Just to add to what J_9 mentioned about reasons for inductions.....two more that are becoming increasingly common are "big baby" syndrome and going passed due dates. There is great debate on just how medically necessary either are unless true concerns are present. Birthing babies has become increasingly expensive for many OBs, causing some to get out of catching babies altogether. Currently there is a more medically managed system in place...hence another reason for the increase in the last number of years.


So how does a doctor know how big the baby is or how much it weighs? You said big baby syndrome how does that come about? As well why did my doctor just seem so concerned about if the baby was breech or not, I mean after hearing everyone answers there is no concern yet right?

davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 04:44 PM
Where ya gonna put baby before then? I put all 4 of mine in their crib as soon as we got home. Had to "teach" them to sleep in their own rooms from the get go. LOL

I did have a bassinet, but it was downstairs with me where the babies would sleep during the day so that I did not have to go up and down the stairs.


Well I was going to put it in a bassinet beside my bed for the first little while, but your right the kid has to learn.

J_9
Mar 15, 2008, 04:45 PM
As of now hun, you have nothing to worry about. Nothing at all. If your doctor is not concerned neither should you be. Just remember that all this stress and worry does affect the baby.


Well I was going to put it in a bassinet beside my bed for the first little while, but your right the kid has to learn.

If you prefer the bassinet by the bed, by all means go for it if it makes you feel more comfortable. Remember, I'm experienced, I have 4 kids, the oldest is 21 and the youngest just turned 6. Plus, I work in Labor & Delivery.

davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 04:47 PM
Yah I figured I was to stressed I just called the spa and I am going in tomorrow for some fun, plus I guess I do have a nanny that helps out.

J_9
Mar 15, 2008, 04:50 PM
Oh, goodness girl, you're going to a spa and you have a Nanny... what do you have to worry about? LOL

You'll be a GREAT mommy, really you will. It is so natural to be apprehensive before the baby gets here, it's normal, we all go through it. I went through it with all 4 pregnancies.

You'll do great Mom, really you will.

DoulaLC
Mar 15, 2008, 04:58 PM
So how does a doctor know how big the baby is or how much it weighs? You said big baby syndrome how does that come about? As well why did my doctor just seem so concerned about if the baby was breech or not, I mean after hearing everyone answers there is no concern yet right?

There are a few ways to determine an idea of size. A scan at about 20 weeks or so is probably the most accurate... later in the pregnancy it becomes less so as babies will put on weight at varying speed. Many doctors/midwives do a better job just by palpation, or feeling the baby. Fundal height measurements are used by some, but not very accurate as there are a number of factors that can play a role... besides possibly baby's size, length of mother's torso, previous pregnancies, amount of amniotic fluid when it's done, location of the placenta, who's doing the measurement and where they are measuring from, etc.. Some don't even do them anymore for that reason.
In some ways it is unfortunate that mothers are given an estimated weight... and that is truly what it is... an estimation. Unless there is a true concern about baby's growth... either unusually small or large for dates, it often causes unnecessary worry and unnecessary inductions.
It is rare a woman will grow a baby larger than what she can give birth to... can it happen? Sure... but it is not the norm. And you can't tell by just looking at someone the size of baby they could birth. Petite women have been known to have 10 pounders without difficulty, where a woman that may look like she has "birthing hips" may have unusually narrow pelvic measurements (something your doctor would note in an early exam) and have trouble with a baby over 7 pounds. If someone is suspecting a good sized baby there are a few things to consider... positions used in labor, and certainly for second stage, or pushing. Some positions are better for larger babies than others. Deciding to be induced when the baby is still high up and the cervix is not favorable when there is not a clear medical indication for it. The use of an epidural can have an effect on baby and mother being able to get into optimum positions... best if used, if someone decides to, only once labor is progressing well.
Big baby syndrome is when an induction is suggested simply due to the suspected size of baby. Again, unless a doctor has already determined that pelvic measurements are unusual, and would prohibit the birth of a good sized baby, or baby is unusually large, there is simply no way to tell how big is too big for any given mother.
Your doctor may not be as concerned as he appeared if you aren't going back for two weeks to check again. If he was very concerned he could suggest a scan. He may just have been a bit frustrated perhaps that he couldn't determine it at that time as it may be a part of his regular routine to note it at this time. It is not uncommon for them not to be able to tell.


Well I was going to put it in a bassinet beside my bed for the first little while, but your right the kid has to learn.

Personal question davejag... are you thinking about breastfeeding? If so, you may want to consider having baby with you in the early weeks at least. Either way, it can help to pick up on baby's hunger cues early on if they are close by. See how it goes... some moms find they sleep better knowing baby is close by and they can get to them quickly... some find they hear every little sound and it causes them to not get much sleep at all, at least until they adjust to the many different squeaks and sighs newborns make... :)

davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 05:14 PM
Oh, goodness girl, you're going to a spa and you have a Nanny....what do you have to worry about? LOL

You'll be a GREAT mommy, really you will. It is so natural to be apprehensive before the baby gets here, it's normal, we all go through it. I went through it with all 4 pregnancies.

You'll do great Mom, really you will.


Thanks J_9 that means a lot when you says I am going to be a great mom. Yes I know I am a bit spoiled LOL it all started with the husband of mine, I am very lucky he has made up for the poor childhood I had. It does mean a lot to me to have a support group like this one, because I don't have parents to turn to.

davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 05:17 PM
I will try to breastfeed if I can, I have already told my husband and the Nanny that. I do think my doctor is just a bit frustrated with my pregnancy just because nothing has gone to plan.

DoulaLC
Mar 15, 2008, 05:22 PM
I will try to breastfeed if I can, I have already told my husband and the Nanny that. I do think my doctor is just a bit frustrated with my pregnancy just because nothing has gone to plan.

I would recommend keeping baby close by then... you will be nursing quite often in the first few weeks to build supply and establish breastfeeding for both you and baby. Breastfed babies will feed more often often than most formula fed babies in the beginning as breastmilk is much easier for them to digest and there is very little waste. Frequent feeds in the beginning are important for both of you.

J_9
Mar 15, 2008, 05:26 PM
Oh, yes, and breastfeeding will get you back to your pre-pregnant size much quicker.

Hun, many pregnancies don't go as planned. I have followed yours since the first post about it.

You're going to do great, really.

davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 05:26 PM
I have not gotten any formula because I was going to breastfed but I guess I should just in case. How difficult is it to begin breastfeeding? As well how many dipers should I buy in advanced my Nanny says two cases at least.

davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 05:30 PM
Sorry I have so many questions it just really helps getting answers

J_9
Mar 15, 2008, 05:47 PM
It's okay to have questions.

Diapers, well use your best judgment. Babies grow fast. So you don't want diapers hanging around that you can't use because baby has grown out of them.

As for formula... wait for now. If breastfeeding works, you won't need it. If it doesn't work for you, your pediatrician will recommend what kind to get for your baby. There are a multitude of formulas on the market, you want the right one for your baby.

As for breastfeeding, the trick is in getting the baby to latch on properly. It's easier to show you than to describe it in writing. Your hospital should have a lactation counselor available who will answer all your questions and sit there with you while you learn to feed.

Oh, yeah, is baby a boy or girl? Any names picked out yet?

DoulaLC
Mar 15, 2008, 05:49 PM
I have not gotten any formula because I was going to breastfed but I guess I should just in case. How difficult is it to begin breastfeeding? As well how many dipers should I buy in advanced my Nanny says two cases at least.

Two schools of thought on having formula at the ready. If you would feel more comfortable having it in the house, "just in case", go ahead. Some feel it may be too tempting to give into using it if breastfeeding is challenging at first. Sometimes fathers, being well intentioned, want to help if baby is upset and mom is upset and they may push the idea of "just give 'em a bottle this time" in hopes of helping everyone be happy. Unfortuantely you don't know if your baby will be one who doesn't care where they get their meal from, and will go from breast to bottle without an issue, or if your baby will easily take the bottle, but balk at going back to the breast because now they have to work harder for their meal.
Nursing your baby may go very well... some are what I call "barracuda babies"... they latch right on and know exactly what to do... some take awhile to get the hang of it. Most newborns are ready to nurse right after birth and should be given the opportunity as soon as possible. Most problems that arise early on can be remedied pretty easily with good support... and it is important to get that help as soon as you have any concerns... before you get to the point of deciding it just isn't working for you.
Find out what sort of support on breastfeeding is available where you will be giving birth. Some are more knowledgeable than others. It doesn't hurt to hear different ideas and suggestions because what works for one person may not work for someone else. Part of it is finding out what works for you.
Be careful not to compare your breastfed baby with a friend's or family member's formula fed baby. Their eating and sleeping patterns, as well as weight gain, will often be different.
If anyone asks what you want or need for baby, offer your ideas, and throw in a request for a pack of diapers as well... :) If you find your baby doesn't stay in newborn sizes very long, some don't, unopened packs can be returned for larger sizes. Rough guide to go by... about 8-10 a day after the first few days (better to have too many than not enough).

davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 05:54 PM
It's okay to have questions.

Diapers, well use your best judgment. Babies grow fast. So you don't want diapers hanging around that you can't use because baby has grown out of them.

As for formula....wait for now. If breastfeeding works, you won't need it. If it doesn't work for you, your pediatrician will recommend what kind to get for your baby. There are a multitude of formulas on the market, you want the right one for your baby.

As for breastfeeding, the trick is in getting the baby to latch on properly. It's easier to show you than to describe it in writing. Your hospital should have a lactation counselor available who will answer all your questions and sit there with you while you learn to feed.

Oh, yeah, is baby a boy or girl? Any names picked out yet?

Thanks for the great answers, no we don't know what it is going to be because they won't tell you in BC hospitals you have to go to a clinic to find out.
As for names we have a few we like

I found a really neat name the other day for a girl Lena-marie or Ethan for a boy
Lilly for a girl or Noah for a boy

davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 05:57 PM
Be careful not to compare your breastfed baby with a friend's or family member's formula fed baby. Their eating and sleeping patterns, as well as weight gain, will often be different.
If anyone asks what you want or need for baby, offer your ideas, and throw in a request for a pack of diapers as well... :) If you find your baby doesn't stay in newborn sizes very long, some don't, unopened packs can be returned for larger sizes. Rough guide to go by... about 8-10 a day after the first few days (better to have too many than not enough).[/QUOTE]

Okay that's good to know because I would have compared it and said why is my baby the way it is.

J_9
Mar 15, 2008, 05:58 PM
Those are beautiful names. All 4 of them. LOL

I never found out what I was going to have with any of mine.

Have you a pediatrician picked out? I don't know how it works in BC, but here in the US we pick ours out. If you have that option, you might want to start interviewing pediatricians.

Again, with the formula, it is so very expensive, I would wait until I talked with the lactation consultant and the pediatrician in the hospital. Most hospitals will send you home with at least a days worth of formula. And you have such a wonderful husband and Nanny, I'm sure they wouldn't mind running out to get what your pediatrician prescribes once you get home.

davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 06:12 PM
I am going to wait it is crazy how expensive things are for babies. I don't help the matter since I needed a $ 650 crib, $ 400 stroller, and the clothes well lets not get on that topic LOL. My husband has said this baby has cost him more then his first car go figure, but it's my first and I wanted the best stuff.

As for a pediatrician it depends were you live, normally you stay with your family doctor who delivers the baby. We don't even see a OB anymore those are just for special cases, it's the family doctor that delivers the bundle joy. The only time you really see a pediatrician if there is something wrong with the baby or in the hospital.

As for the names I just really wanted a name that would sound great later in life. I don't know if you have read in past when my husband was on here, he had mentioned to everyone that I was thinking of naming our sons middle name after my doctor. Well see I always have liked Victor as a middle name, yes it is my doctors name and it is one of my favorite soaps stars name ( Victor Newman) but I still have some more convincing to do LOL.

J_9
Mar 15, 2008, 06:17 PM
Yeah, I remember that post about the middle name, LOL. Although I see why you want that name (I'm named after a soap star), your husbands feelings may get hurt.

Your hubby was so worried about you the first few weeks of your pregnancy, I do remember that too.

davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 06:21 PM
Yeah he is good husband he has always been there for me. He thinks the doctor may be offended or would have weird feelings about having a child named after him, I told him he was nuts.

J_9
Mar 15, 2008, 06:24 PM
Just always remember to consider what the initials would spell too.

When I was pregnant with my first I was hoping for a girl. I was going to name her Hailey Ann... My last name at the time was Schmidt.

My sweet loving mother brought it to my attention that kids are cruel, they would be calling her Holy Sh!t. LOL

Another friend of mine named her child Amber Nichole, and their last name begins with D... so her monogram is AND.

Just things to consider.

DoulaLC
Mar 15, 2008, 06:26 PM
Okay that's good to know because I would of compared it and said why is my baby the way it is.


It happens often and is a common reason why breastfeedong mothers end the breastfeeding sooner than they had hoped to. So are a number of misconceptions that cause women to second guess their decision... that you will become very sore, that you will have to deal with cracking and bleeding, that you won't be able to drink anything or eat what you want, that baby eating so often shows that you aren't making enough or that your milk doesn't satisfy baby (a popular one with well meaning family members! ), that it is obvious that you aren't producing enough if you don't get much if you try pumping, that no one else can help with feedings, etc..

davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 06:43 PM
Just always remember to consider what the initials would spell too.

When I was pregnant with my first I was hoping for a girl. I was going to name her Hailey Ann....My last name at the time was Schmidt.

My sweet loving mother brought it to my attention that kids are cruel, they would be calling her Holy Sh!t. LOL

Another friend of mine named her child Amber Nichole, and their last name begins with D....so her monogram is AND.

Just things to consider.


LOL I never thought about that, kids can be so cruel EVS would be his intials and hers
L-M KS.

J_9
Mar 15, 2008, 06:45 PM
Oh, well, that's good. Nothing like DID or AND, my daughter's best friend's initials are VIP. LOL, she is a Very Important Person to us.

davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 06:45 PM
Yeah you know everyone thinks after you have given birth you can go back to eating and drinking again but no not if your breastfeeding I guess. What about diets then? Can I go on a diet?

davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 06:48 PM
Oh, well, that's good. Nothing like DID or AND, my daughter's best friend's initials are VIP. LOL, she is a Very Important Person to us.


LOL VIP that's funny what is her name? I always thought giving kids cute names was just going to hurt them later in life because no one was going to take them serious.

J_9
Mar 15, 2008, 06:48 PM
I wouldn't go on a diet so soon. You need all you can get to get healthy again. You see, delivering a baby is very traumatic to your body.

I know with my last two I didn't have to diet. I walked out of the hospital in pre-pregnancy clothes and I was as big as a barn the day of delivery.

Just take it one day at a time. Let's see how all else goes first. No need to put the cart before the horse.

DoulaLC
Mar 15, 2008, 06:53 PM
Yeah you know everyone thinks after you have given birth you can go back to eating and drinking again but no not if your breastfeeding I guess. What about diets then? Can I go on a diet?

Actually, you can eat pretty much what you want to. Obviously healthy food choices are best. The occasional drink isn't really an issue either... but if you wanted to be more cautious, just have your drink right after a feed so that there will be a period pass before the next feed is needed.
Many women find they lose the baby weight fairly easily while breastfeeding as it burns a good number of calories... even though it is suggested you eat a bit more during breastfeeding than you did during pregnancy... about 500 extra calories a day. But, it doesn't hold true for everyone... plenty of women feel it wasn't fair when they didn't lose the weight as quickly as they expected to!

After you have had your postpartum checkup, at about 6 weeks, you can discuss dieting with your doctor. Weight Watchers has a nice diet for breastfeeding mothers. You want to be sure you don't go too far down in caloric intake as it can effect milk supply for some women.
In most cases, you can certainly start some easy walking early on, but anything more strenuous, wait until you speak to your doctor at the checkup.

davejag
Mar 15, 2008, 06:57 PM
I have only gained 10lbs with this pregnancy but because I have had 2 miscarriages before I just put on the weight. I mean Im not over weight or anything but I would like to get down to 130- 140 again. I do have a personal trainer and he said I have to lose the Bustar Bars ( Ice cream bars yummy).

Chery
Mar 17, 2008, 01:36 PM
My normal weight before I got pregnant was 98 lbs. for years. And I drank whole milk, ate real icecream and real cheeses. Never touched the 'diet' foods.

When I got pregnant I took my prenatal vitamins and iron and still ate normally. It is my opinion that if you want a baby, a healthy baby, whole milk and real cheese is better for development. And it's still the best while nursing.

I weighed 150 lbs when I went in to deliver, after delivery I weighed 130 lbs. and it took me two years to get back to size 7 and then 5. But it was worth it because I had a healthy baby and nursed for 14 months. I made my choice - I wanted a baby, and wanted a healthy one - that was my priority.

Later after that was achieved, I danced, swam, exercised to music, and got back to my 'sexy' stage and had fun sewing new clothes for myself and felt great.

So, it all depends what your priorities are and how to achieve them. I don't regret the big bum or big boobs - that was nourishment that nature meant for my child and after that I could do what I wanted again. I never let 'society' tell me what weight I should have and how I should look, I did not need to look like 'Twiggy' at any time in my life and still felt like a sexy woman. It's mostlly in the mind - IMO...

So, you ladies that want to stay skinny all your life, either don't have kids or get some other woman to have them for you.. but you'll miss out on the most wonderful feeling and pride in seeing that sacrifice grow to hug and love you for being just you, no matter whether you are heavy or skinny.

Just had to put my two-cents worth in, I hope I did not upset any of you, that was not my purpose here.

Motherhood is the hardest job in the world, but worth every effort!

http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/15/15_11_2.gif (http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb001_ZSYYYYYYMXDE) A happy and proud Grandma!