Wednesday, June 23, 2010

38 Weeks, 5 Days

2 cm, 70% effaced today. Feeling discouraged by that, although I'm not sure why. I'm not even to 39 weeks yet, and I know that baby has to come out eventually. And even if she comes late, that day is still so close. I am so close to meeting my little girl. I just need to be patient.

We discussed induction. I'd rather not induce, but if baby isn't out by 40 weeks, I think I'll be ready to consider it. So, we'll wait another week and see what happens. (Maybe this is why I'm feeling discouraged, thinking about induction. I'm really hoping we won't have to go that route.)

My belly measured small, but my doctor was not concerned since my fluid level was good just last week. Nor was she concerned that I dropped two pounds. My total weight gain is now 15 pounds. I promise I'm eating, so if my doctor is not worried, I'm not worried. But maybe I'll start eating ice cream for dinner every night. And Cinnamon Crunch bagels from Panera for breakfast.

I've been having lots of contractions, perhaps another reason for my feeling discouraged. Last Saturday, I was so sure that baby was on her way. The contractions were consistent, about 5-10 minutes apart. We timed them on our way to dinner with friends, and I thought we might not make it through the meal. But they never grew closer together, intensity did not increase, and I had no back pain or cramping. So, we had dinner, came home and went for a walk, and went to bed. At 3 am, I awoke to another bout of contractions, and again I thought it might be time to go to the hospital. But after thirty minutes, I fell asleep, so obviously, NOT labor. All day Sunday too, I had 5-6 contractions per hour. Still, no signs of true, baby-producing labor.

The contractions slowed on Monday. Then at work yesterday, I thought my water had broken. I was walking back to my desk from a trip to the bathroom, and I felt like I peed my pants, just a little. Of course I immediately thought it was my water, and that this was it -- but no. Turns out, I had just peed my pants. Just a little.

One of my pregnant friends pointed out, it's like Preconception Hypochondriasis all over again, except now I'm looking for signs of labor. And after all of that thinking I was in labor, I suppose I had these notions I'd be at least 5 cm today, that baby would be falling out and my doctor would send me to the hospital right away! (Silly me.)

Even though I'm only at 2 cm, I know baby can come any moment. It's difficult, not knowing when that will be or what tomorrow will bring. But it's also exciting, and a lesson in patience, giving up control and enjoying life as it comes. (I just hope the lesson is almost over.)

9 comments:

Kacie said...

I completely understand all of this!

If it makes you feel any better at all, I was only 1 cm at my 39 week appointment, and Gemma was born 2 days early. Hang in there girl!

Kt said...

I opted not to be checked every week specifically because I didn't want the excitement or disappointment. The waiting game is so annoying! Hang in there, mama:)

Abra said...

Oh, yes, that feeling. I KNOW that feeling (and I will know it again in just three months). I lost weight the week I went into labor--sometimes that can be a sign that labor is progressing. Hang in there. It will happen when it is suppose to. (Easier said then done, I know). Soon, you will be holding a squishy, adorable newborn-- can't wait to see pics!

Marci said...

before an induction talk to your doctor about your Bishop Score

Mrs. Hesson said...

Ahhh she'll be here soon :) And 15 pounds?! Lucky duck...

The (Type A) Nightmare said...

So exciting! I get nervous just thinking about feeling like this in a little more than 6 months. ;) CRAZY! I still can't believe it's almost time! And I CANNOT believe you've only gained 15 pounds. Preggo envy here. ;) I secretly envision me gaining 70 and never getting it off. Haha.

Thinking of you! And can't wait to know she's on her way!

Josey said...

Johanna - I am SO excited for you. I'm sure your little miracle will be here soon! Are you going to post an updated belly pic?

Callie Nicole said...

COngratulations on your little miracle! I just came across your blog, and I've been enjoying reading it. :-) I'm sure she'll be in your arms before you know it!

Alanna said...

I'm like KT - I opted not to be checked so that I wouldn't get discouraged or get my hopes up. And then one day, out of nowhere, my water broke!

Hang in there. I know it's tough, but try not to think about it too much. Keep yourself busy. I had a LONG "To Do" list, and I focused on getting as much of it done as possible. I was ALMOST bummed that I didn't get to finish everything before my water broke! LOL

You are SO close now...you can do this!

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