So technically, I'm one day shy of 39 weeks. But, I wanted to write and get all my thoughts down in case I go into labor overnight!
At my appointment today, I was 3-4 cm dilated and 80% effaced. My doctor seemed quite surprised and I think Craig and I truly realized how soon Baby could come when she said, "Whoa--you've been having a lot of contractions?" Tightening in my stomach, yes, but nothing noteworthy or painful by any means. She also stripped my membranes. Now, I had the same thing done at 38.5 weeks with Brantley. A week later, I was still pregnant and therefore, induced. So, I know having one's membranes stripped isn't a sure way to go into labor, but for some reason, I feel like this time is different! Speaking of, I'm super nervous that I'm already 4cm dilated and worried that I could get to the hospital too late for the epidural. I know it's probably unlikely, but I'm seriously the biggest wimp and have
zero desire to attempt this without drugs! I'm also nervous about knowing
when to go to the hospital. I know the 5-1-1 rule, but because I was induced the first time, we didn't have to spend hours at home contemplating. I almost feel like this is foreign territory to me!
I went to grab a few groceries after leaving my doctor's appointment this afternoon, and I was so nervous, I couldn't focus. I felt like I had a million thoughts running through my head and walked up and down each aisle a minimum of two times! And of course, I had to leave school in a hurry today to get to my doctor's appointment. So even though, over the past week or so, I've been obsessively making sure every single thing is done and sub-ready, today it is not. I have make-up tests to grade, a few copies to make, and a check for lunch money to drop off to the lunch lady.
Nonetheless, I'm ready if and when Baby is! If I were to go into labor overnight, I would be excited and thrilled! Since having my membranes stripped around 5pm, my stomach has been tightening quite frequently! Still nothing painful, but I think I'm mentally prepared to wake up overnight to the start of labor!
How Far Along: 39 weeks (minus 1 day)
Size of Baby: ~20 inches, ~7+ pounds; the size of a mini-watermelon (No joke about that! I definitely feel like there's a watermelon in there!)
Gender: BOY
Weight Gain: Under 35 pounds
Food Cravings: Nothing specific
Food Aversions: None
Movement: As much as he can!
Sleep: Average.
Clothing: Same.
Other Pregnancy Symptoms: The acid reflux is still here, but has subsided a little. I haven't woken up overnight with it nearly as much. Some swelling, sore feet, occasional restless and/or achy legs.
What I Miss: Feeling normal.
Best Moment: Learning my body is cooperating and doing exactly what it should!
Looking Forward To: Go-time!
I will update with a bump picture tomorrow, assuming I officially make it to 39 weeks. :)
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Update: Well I officially made it to 39 weeks. I was shocked to
wake up to my alarm this morning and not to contractions
overnight! Every part of me was thinking I'd go into labor overnight. Since I didn't, I
can't help but think it will still be a few days (or more). Ugh! I hate this
waiting game! It was probably for the best though since I left so much unfinished
business at school yesterday. But today, however, I got everything done. Which means, I would feel a-okay about not returning tomorrow. :) There is a full moon tonight. I've always heard that more women have babies during full moons so I guess I'll keep my fingers crossed. Here's my 39-week bump!
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