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I bought “To the Moon and Back for you” just looking at the preview I got a little emotional. I also bought 3 cute little outfits and some pajamas. And noww I need to chill out in the spending since my tabs for my car and our 6 month car insurance are both due this month. I also put down the deposit for my brothers destination wedding in March 2022 which I am feeling really conflicted about since it’s an adults only resort and babe will only be 5 and a half months old. Thank goodness for travel insurance!
Pre-pregnancy I was a combo back- and side-sleeper so getting used to not being on my back or being able to move around easily has been difficult. But yesterday I got a small double wedge pregnancy pillow and it was soooo nice. I didn't want a big pillow because I roll so often and this was just want I needed. Hopefully it continues to be great for a long time.
I really don’t want to dampen your spirits, but I documented things leading up to our first round of IVF and then found it difficult when it didn’t work to hold on to any of those mementos.
Obviously I really hope that it works for you, but I would think ahead so you have a plan of what to do if this round doesn’t pan out as expected.
Our IVF journey was a long one and everyone knows that’s how we conceived so when Philip is old enough to ask we’ll be upfront with him. I also bought him a book before he was born called Wish. It doesn’t deal specifically with IVF, but tells the story of a very longed for child. It makes me cry every time I read it!
Edit: also it might just be my sense of humour, but I can’t wait to tell him he was conceived round the back of a BMW garage when mummy and daddy weren’t even there!
Hey, I had my c-section after three days of attempting a vaginal birth and tbh, I’m totally cool with just going straight to a scheduled c-section next time (if I’m lucky enough to get pregnant again). There are some advantages, namely, according to my OB the c-section is actually the safest thing for the baby, a lot can go wrong with a vaginal birth. A c-section is a valid, beautiful way to birth a child, and not a lesser option like many people seem to think it is.
The recovery hasn’t been as bad as I expected. I’m three weeks pp and I’m able to take the stroller out for a 30 minute walk around the neighborhood without issue now. I needed help showering and getting my underwear on (but tbh, getting my underwear on was already super difficult towards the end of my pregnancy because my lower abs basically stopped existing, so this might not have been a c-section related thing) for the first two days after, and then was able to shower and get in and out of bed, pump, hold my baby, etc.
I don’t know if you’re chubby or not, but if you have a little extra padding in your lower abdomen like I do, I’d recommend buying the Frida peri-bottle that has an angled neck, it makes cleaning the incision in the shower waaaay easier. My OB also recommended this antimicrobial silver dressing after my one week check in...I cut a thin strip off of it every couple days and keep it in the (now pretty saggy) skin fold over my incision to keep the moisture out and it works great.
So I'm pretty sure my baby is breech. There is one solid, large, round piece of the baby that is up near my ribcage on the right side and I get a lot of big bumps from it. All the little movements are lower below my belly button line. Also, they might be sunnyside up too since they were at 28 weeks and I'm pretty sure they haven't moved significantly since. Does anyone have any experience with figuring it out at home? I hadn't really thought about it until today and so didn't talk to my doctor about it yesterday when I saw her.
If my baby is breech and my doctor already wants to schedule an induction does this pretty much guarantee a cesarean? Would a c-section be scheduled earlier than she would have scheduled the induction?
In other news we got our first pile of Amazon baby stuff yesterday! It included To the Moon and Back for You and I definitely read it and cried. The words are perfect and the artwork is beautiful.
Agree that you’re likely over complicating this, but it is good to consider! If you’re in the reach of Amazon or similar you REALLY don’t have to worry, as you can have more formula in your house very quickly.
I’d recommend having a little but if ready-to-feed formula- maybe a box of little 2oz bottles, they’re SO easy for the frequent small feeds in the early days. Amazon link here.
Another less expensive option is to have a can of powder ready to go. Totally safe from the start, but takes an extra step of mixing.
I mostly breastfed my first, but did require formula supplementation in the first week when my supply wasn’t in and latch wasn’t going well. Went through less than one box of the little bottles I linked above, then gave the extras to a neighbor so they didn’t expire in my cabinet.
Posted this in the April Bumper group, sorry if you're reading it twice but I hope it helps anyone having trouble finding a bra that works when you can't physically shop for them!
I've gone from a 34D to a 36F and have been wearing too small, flimsy lounge bras since shutdown/wfh. I think the lack of support and synthetic material has given me contact dermatitis and I'm just so uncomfortable... I used the size calculator from r/ABraThatFits and measured a 36H but ended up sizing down a bit through trial & error.
Padded/Supportive - Ended up with a 36F. I like the inner cup structure of this one. More a triangular frame than a skinny strap that digs down the center of your boob like the Motherhood options. The band feels tight but that's probably because I've been wearing crappy lounge bras since March.
Cotton/Lounge - Ended up with a L. I think the fit is fine. I have a little side bulge in the cups and I'm wondering if the band is sitting too high so I'm ordering an XL but my guess is it'll be too big and I'll just need to wait for the L to stretch a bit.
I like the Consumer Reports list of newborn necessities. It isn't scaled for twins, but gives a good "basics" list of things are really needed: http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/news/2009/02/newborn-necessities-save-money-and-buy-just-the-basics/index.htm
I guess I don't think you're missing anything, it's just hard when they're so little. I rarely bathed mine at that age, definitely not more than once a week. Honestly still don't though he definitely needs it more now that he's older, I just find the whole process fussy and time consuming! But at that age I always just did a very shallow bath in the tub and used this giant sponge cushion (like this) I would lay him on and he was never submerged. Kept it super short and sweet and all business. I didn't start real baths until he could sit up well and then they got more fun. The pooping in the tub thing is tough though. I do end the bath right away when it happens and just try to time baths for right after a poopy diaper.
I got you.
The symphony is marketed to hospitals and yes, it does cost $2k. It is meant to be used for years of pumping. The spectra hospital grade refers to its suction strength, and will reportedly last about a year.
I rented the symphony before I got the spectra. The spectra feels gentler but I still get the same amount out. When I use the symphony at my breastfeeding appointments i don't like it after the spectra. Both took the same amount of time. The spectra is more customizable as you can select suction and speed, just suction on the symphony. The symphony is large and heavy. It is not a candidate for transporting to work. The spectra isn't the most transportable but it's way more possible.
Basically buy the spectra. It's a great pump and I think they have a portable version. The symphony costs $50-$70 a month to rent, the spectra is like $125 on Amazon
ETA: I pump a ton. When I'm not on mobile I'll post the angled flanges and medela to spectra adapter.
I had this for a few weeks starting around 11 or 12 weeks. Constant migraines everyday from neck tension. Nothing solved it... But a few things I found that helped.
Tension headache medicine- it's just acetaminophen and caffeine..I was hesitant, but it's under the caffeine threshold and it did help make me feel better.
Be koool migraine patches are life savers. They have been for me for years, but especially so during pregnancy when I couldn't take my migraine meds. They are non medicated and can last a few hours. I wear it overnight for headaches I feel coming on and sometimes it's still cool in the morning.
Heated shoulder and neck massager. This was a splurge when I was absolutely desperate to not be in pain every day for weeks. Did it cure them? No. But it really helped!
The boppy wedge pillow was a game changer for me. I put it between my knees/thighs while lying on my side and it instantly relieved pressure on my hips and back. I also love that it did the trick without being an enormous pillow. I bought a second one and stuck it under my belly to relieve pressure there as well.
https://www.amazon.com/Boppy-Pregnancy-Scallop-Maternity-removable/dp/B01N06ZFIX
We just got this book and it’s just beautiful. I think it opens a wonderful door to conversations about conception in its many many forms. Highly recommend!
Edit to add: we’ve also been very open about infertility and have a framed photo of his embryo on the dresser, so we’re obviously going the “normalize it” route.
Congratulations! According to this paper, you’re looking at over a 90% chance of success based on a starting beta of 210 at 9dp5dt and a 75% increase in two days. See figure 2. Doubling time closer to 48 hours matters more when the starting number isn’t so high. Your doubling time is just under 60 hours with a 46 hour draw - this site lets you put in the number of hours between each draw.
I am a stomach sleeper too and usually hate pillow so I didn't really want to get a pregnancy pillow. A wedge pillow like this one https://www.amazon.com/hiccapop-Pregnancy-Maternity-Pillows-Support/dp/B01KG84CLI worked for me.
One of the things most excited about when this baby is out is sleeping on my stomach again.
I have this one and like it. My husband made me order it at around 17 weeks and even though I thought I didn't need it at first, it has made a difference in sleep comfort for sure.
I got this one from Amazon probably around 18-19w and it took some getting used to but it’s my lifesaver now! My dogs also seem to love it so I’m usually fighting one of them for it.
I got them on Amazon called “Nipple Shield Breastfeeding Nipple Shield 20mm for Nursing Newborn Using for Latch Difficulties 2 PCS” Brand: Pea Baby
WOW they work great!! I have been able to breastfeed twice today! Super happy with them
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08JCV3FQW?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
3 - 3:10 and send her down to the gift shop for a candy bar for half of that...
From my own lessons in mom management, give her a job she can focus on. Not baby related. Maybe take the time to ask her about life stories and work on a "stories from my mom" type book together.
Good luck... this post makes me glad my mom lives on the other side of the country.
Not at night, but during the day I found the baby really liked their moses basket at 4 weeks. We had this one. For whatever reason I could get him to sleep in it way easier than his bassinet. No need for sleep slack etc.
Re breathing-have you thought about getting an owlet? They are expensive, but might give you some piece of mind.
Also-don't just listen to me on this, but I think its not recommended to have babies sleep in swings and rockers -at least for extended periods of time?
I got these Clarks from Amazon. They 100% look like middle aged mom sandals but are super sturdy and supportive and I'm glad I got them! Plus they have a few other similar designs.
If you really want, you can get this: https://www.amazon.com/Summer-Infant-Soothe-Portable-Soother/dp/B00FBEN4JE . Mine has yet to find it relaxing, so I'm glad an extra vibration feature was only $15. I know there are some that really like it, though. Mine slept on me at night until about 6.5 weeks, when their digestive system starts to mature more.
Not OP but we loved our tent with my first.
G4Free Outdoor Automatic Pop up Instant Portable Cabana Beach Tent 2-3 Person Camping Fishing Hiking Picnicing Anti UV Beach Tent Beach Shelter, Sets https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01ALMJMI2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_adlzmUGPHSONh
This time I also got this baby dome. Fisher-Price On-the-Go Baby Dome, Grey/Blue/Yellow/White https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01K7VHHBG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_99VWFPK00KVH13ZF0A41?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Afaik, it's just when it becomes uncomfortable. I find if i'm able to wrap my whole body around the pillow while on my left side, it almost feels like stomach sleeping? I'm a back and stomach sleeper and side sleeping has been fun to get used to. I feel like I don't know how to position my shoulders without them getting sore, but the pillow helps.
This is the one I have. I got the cooling cover and it's quite nice. It's U-shaped, but one of the sides is detachable, and there's a divot for your arm.
I found a really decent quality, real wood dresser on Amazon that was under $300. I swapped out the knobs for something trendier, and I think that made a huge difference!
We started going to the pool at 8 months using a baby pool float. My daughter absolutely loved kicking and splashing around in it. I liked the sun shade for keeping some of the sun off plus we used long sleeved rash guards and a floppy UV blocking hat. We also used it the following summer when she was 1.5. I would not use it in a very busy pool but it worked well in our small town pool and at the lake.
Actually, seconding bike shorts... I got these bike shorts off Amazon and pretty much live in them. Looks like they make leggings too!
We’ve been using a book called The Dream Sleeper . It teaches about using positive sleep associations and a reliable schedule during the day to help your baby learn how to sleep on their own.
So I did find this: this contraption, but the reviews make it sound like it doesn’t work well with compression socks.
For positive stories about vaginal births a HIGHLY recommend Ina May's Guide to Childbirth https://www.amazon.com/dp/0553381156/ the whole first half of the book is just positive natural birth stories. I tried to read one or two a day because similar to you, I had only heard so many negative stories.
My own was positive! A week late, but with a membrane sweep spontaneously went in to labor. Only used gas, no epidural. Your body is meant to handle these things, so even when there’s pain it’s nothing you can’t do. I did have third degree tearing, potentially through my own fault of being eager to push, but it healed really nicely! Husband can’t tell a difference at all, I can of course but it’s really nothing bad just different.
Benefits post birth - I think my hormones really reset in a way. My periods are completely different. I used to have such intense pain I’d be on Advil through half a bottle of wine and still be moaning in the corner of the couch and doubled over in pain. Now sometimes I can’t even tell it’s started and it takes me by surprise!
I got these "under the bump" style panties off Amazon and I've been really happy with them so far. I only have one baby so I'm sure I'm not nearly as large as you are, especially since I'm not as far along, so YMMV but I've been very happy with these panties. For me they sit enough below my bump that they aren't rolling at the top and such like my other undies are.
Bonus: I could still see myself wearing these undies after pregnancy assuming my weight doesn't change too much and such.
Weekend was good -- we are mostly prepped for the big kitchen reno to start on Wednesday! My phone legit died yesterday -- I had to print directions to a super bowl party (still got lost) and MrC worked on it for a few hours but it's dunzo. So another one ordered from Amazon.
Shout-out to whoever recommended these maternity bras on amazon! They arrived in time for me to be in comfort all day yesterday. Hooray! I was a 32DD before pregnancy, the medium works (though I may need to go up to a large by the time I'm done cooking). https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00YGSECLA/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Ok, in that case, I would also suggest this NICU journal (recommended by my friend who had a 25 week-er.)
It's a lot different for you, since mine were all planned at 39 weeks, but I know people can have a lot of fear around c-sections. If they are emergency, I am sure it's a lot scarier. For me, they have been great and have had minimal recovery time (my friends who delivered vaginally almost all felt worse than I did.)
Also, for your leave, the possibility of NICU might change when you want to take leave. My sister in law just had 27 week old twins and I think they are going to try to work while they are in the NICU to save some of their leave for when the babies come home.
Good luck!
Check out the book Infertility and PTSD the Uncharted Storm by Joanna Flemmons. PTSD from infertility/losses is definitely a real thing. I didn’t have anxiety until dealing with infertility and now it’s present in many areas of my life but that book was extremely helpful for me to figure you my more complex, darker feelings from infertility.
Edit: Amazon link to book
My daughter is 7 mos and sleeps every night in one of these travel bassinets: https://www.amazon.com/Dream-Me-Karley-Bassinet-Periwinkle/dp/B01LY80MNC/ref=mp_s_a_1_11?keywords=travel+bassinet&qid=1552656686&s=gateway&sr=8-11
Some practical advice though - I will say I've never zipped the top closed because it's on there very taut and would be a serious hassle to do that every time and have to unzip it while baby is crying or starting to stir, just to reinsert a pacifier in their mouth. This can literally be 20x a night. It would also make noise zipping and that is NOT something you want with a baby you just got down to sleep. If you leave the top down and opened, you technically have to use the mechanism provided to secure the folded up top or else it's not safe, and it's also a pain. I would find a way to keep cats out of the room.
What are you reading that indicates that's not viable? The charts are a little all over the place on gestational sac size this early, but that seems right on for some of them:
Me and protein are on the outs too. I get my protein from greek yogurt smoothies in the morning, barilla protein plus pasta, and cottage cheese. I want to try protein pancakes. 20mg protein per serving.
Not true about the repellants without DEET. Consumer Reports has tested mosquito repellants and some that do not include DEET are very effective against the mosquito that carries Zika. I used Repel's non-DEET repellant the other night and it worked great (in South Florida). My boyfriend swears by it in Louisiana as well. The CDC says it's okay to use any of the repellants that are EPA-registered, and many do NOT include DEET.
https://www.cdc.gov/zika/prevention/prevent-mosquito-bites.html
http://www.consumerreports.org/insect-repellents/mosquito-repellents-that-best-protect-against-zika/
EDIT: I saw a sign at a Walgreens store that said the repellent needed to include DEET, which made me suspicious. Consumer Reports released their findings for free to help people with this situation, and although they did not find the one I used to be there number one brand, it was high up there, and repelled the mosquitoes for seven hours instead of their top one which was about eight hours. I think they said their top one was rated higher because it also repelled other insects.
Totally normal! Your doubling time is 99 hours based on 65 hours between tests. Above 6000, doubling time is typically above 96 hours. See here.
Side note: if you’re familiar with the beta base website, don’t rely on it for doubling times! Their methodology is hugely flawed. They take the doubling time between any two betas, even weeks apart, and put that time down for every category of hcg levels in between the two numbers. This ignores that doubling time slows with increasing hcg - they treat it as a constant.
I wasn’t the person that originally posted about the numbing solution, but I used this during PIO and it helped! Make sure to rub it on at least 5 mins or so prior to injection. It’s a very small jar, but would be plenty for the 17 days you have left. I hope those days go by fast for you! PIO is literally the worst. Ultranumb
A friend of mine had a "caravan baby shower" and as an introvert I loved it, haha. No silly games, we chit chatted with the parents-to-be for a little bit, and then high tailed it out of there. It was great for me.
We're thinking about doing a "shower by mail" - which if you look on Pinterest is basically a glorified "send us gifts" post card. That doesn't sit right with me, so I plan on sending out "shower by mail" kits - a USPS flat rate box with a bar of soap (we're due in November and we're going to get pumpkin soaps and do a pumpkin theme), mug cupcake mixes (thank you whoever it was here or gave us that idea!), a wooden heart to sign and return (we're providing an envelope) to make into a "wooden guest book", and a card with our registry info, of course. At least it feels like they're getting something instead of just us asking for things. We might do this "caravan" style for our local friends and family, and do a Zoom for our remote F+F.
It's your party, do what the hell you want!
Except Zoom in to someone else's in-person party. I still can't with that idea. Wow.
I really only want the shower to make some sort of mementos for the baby, because I've already lost my dad and, well, as dumb as it is a scribbled sharpie signature on a wooden block is, it's still something. I think what I'm going to do is include wooden hearts and a stamped envelope to return them so I can make a shadow box/"guest book" for baby.
Can you spend some one on one time with your mom otherwise? You'll probably get more quality time that way anyway!
I really like this bra, but its not pumping compatible and might be more sports bra-ish than what you're looking for. It doesn't come with cups, but has an opening where you can put them in - which I definitely recommend since the material is pretty stretchy/revealing. Also, the steel grey color is a way more comfy material than the charcoal fleck. Not sure why they're so different.
ETA: I also HATE HATE HATE the KB bras - sooooo much material. I got a couple during that sale they had with the strap seam defects and wish I hadn't bought into the hype.
That’s what I assumed too! This is the one I ordered: Dr.Welland Reversible Thumb & Wrist Stabilizer splint for BlackBerry Thumb, Trigger Finger, Pain Relief, Arthritis, Tendonitis, Sprained and Carpal Tunnel Supporting, Lightweight and Breathable S/M https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SWTLTSD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_GV6CK27GF7ESPJ13SRRC
I was sporting a lowercase b-shaped bump for awhile from my spare tire, which morphed into an uppercase B-shaped bump closer to 20weeks. I'm 29wks now and it's now morphed into more of a D-shape, especially when wearing maternity clothes. With dresses, they make maternity belly support (not actual spanx since they don't suck you in, just hold you up) and it has helped SO much with my own body image.
I got a cure for that too! We have these and they are great. You just need an outlet though. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08HMZ1Y1W/ref=cm_sw_r_u_apa_glt_fabc_15DV3FZ7M0SNT3BWF9CD?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
We used these in the hospital and first couple months, I think they are similar to the dr brown preemie ones maybe? But they work on dr browns bottles.
nfant | Slow Flow Nipple, Purple (6ml/min), 4-Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07958CY1X/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_7V4DE7981D839CCZQZPE
I have a pair of gold ones that actually look pretty cute with most of my dresses (or I tell myself that anyway). They’ve got quite a few styles that aren’t all the traditional type. I got this style, the Yao.
I have the Queen Rose pillow and I love it. https://www.amazon.com/QUEEN-ROSE-Pregnancy-Maternity-Hypoallergenic/dp/B075M941F3?ref_=ast_sto_dp&th=1&psc=1 I'm a stomach sleeper too and it's been rough adjusting to side sleeping, but I kinda wrap myself around the pillow and I've gotten more and more used to it. I slept on my stomach until 20+ weeks but it all just depends on your comfort level. Eventually it felt painful and I knew I needed to switch to side sleeping.
Years ago Mr. Yam got me the Q-Flex off of Shark Tank. I've been using it everyday since then. It's been such a game changer for me. A couple of pumps goes a long way.
Oh no! Have you tried one of those metal U-shaped tongue cleaners (linked below)? I can’t stand not cleaning my tongue every morning, and if I focus on keeping it out, I usually manage not to gag when I clean it.
Tongue Scraper with Travel Case - 2 Pack, Fights Bad Breath, Medical Grade 100% Stainless Steel, Great for Oral Care, Tongue Cleaner for Adults and Kids, Easy to Use with Non-Synthetic Handle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LAY47D0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_AZKNTMB0Y5FK8Z7QMP9C
I miss my Thai massages too. The guy I've been going to for years refused to see me in the 1st trimester. Of course, I didn't believe him so I called all around town and yep, he was right... I got shut down by everyone. No one would see me until mid 2nd trimester.
Years ago, my husband bought me the Q-Flex off of Shark Tank. Its amazing. Perhaps run this by your OB and see what she/he has to say.
Thank you! I tried on so many dresses and then went with this one from Amazon that was only $40! Highly recommend!
Thank you! I tried on so many more expensive dresses, and this one was from Amazon and only $40.
I haven't been able to find one that includes IVF stuff. I ordered this one: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07DN6X51K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_i_Z7T3PQDA8BQ0V852WJS3. It's very basic so it allows me to input IVF information without me trying to cram it into other sections.
Somebody here recommended Heading Home with Your Newborn and I really like it so far. I didn’t know anything about breastfeeding frequency or baby poop consistency but now I do (I’m about 1/3 of the way through it).
I found a Puj Flyte for $15 in great condition at a childrens cosignment store! Obviously I haven't used it yet but it fit in both my kitchen sink & bathroom sinks and seems pretty secure! This one seems like it'll only be good for the first few months but that's what I wanted was something small that'll contain a newborn and keep them comfy.
I’m a natural left side sleeper so I thought pregnancy sleep was going to be easy!
Right at ~22 weeks I started getting pain between my shoulders and up to my neck and absolutely cannot sleep through the night on my side.
I ended up propped on the couch with a heating pad on my shoulder blades by 3-4am nightly...I dumped my c-shaped pillow for a mini wedge and body pillow which didn’t help.
My Aetna assigned nurse recommended a recliner so I figured a big wedge was the closest thing without buying an actual recliner (we don’t own one ).
So i got a big giant wedge pillow which seems to be helping.
I am not too worried about the back sleeping / baby resting on the main vein... I feel like I just turn my hip a little and the baby is off center enough, but that may not work for you if you’re having hip pain too. I do recommend the belly band! That has completely eliminated hip pain for me.
I also have noticed my carpal tunnel acting up and got some basic compression gloves to help with that and it seems to help so far (about 2 weeks since I started using it ). Hope you get some sleep!
I broke down and got a nursing bra. That are supposed to be made to stretch and it has worked pretty good. Also came with extensors. I got this one from Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Suekaphin-Maternity-Breastfeeding-Extenders-PurpleBean/dp/B083DDXQKT/
I have chronic anemia and require infusions annually. But when my Ferritin drops low[ish], I take supplements because I don't eat meat.
This is the one I take that agrees with my stomach and does not cause constipation
If youre diagnosed with GD, they should refer you to a MFM [high risk OB] if you're not already seeing one... they typically have dietitians on staff to assist you with your diet and monitoring [I had GD before and I just did my 3hr test today and will more than likely have it again]. It can be a lot of trial and error in the beginning to figure out what and how much to eat to control your sugars.
Thank you! The bookcase is from Amazon and was really reasonable. I had my heart set on a similar one from Pottery Barn but with shipping it was probably $500 compared to $140. I don't know if it's the highest quality ever, and it took my husband about 90 minutes to assemble, but it's super cute and exactly what I was looking for.
The hospital outfit was from Caden Lane. I had a 20% off coupon, but I fully recognize $30 for a hospital outfit is dumb. But it's so damn cute!
I bought this last week and it has made chair sitting a pleasure again! Total game changer.
Edited sorry for ugly link, I need someone to teach me how to make pretty links.
If you feel like you would benefit from a band, definitely start wearing one! I started on and off around 12ish weeks, can't remember exactly. I'm 26w now and have to wear it whenever I'm on my feet for more than 15 minutes at a time. The twin factor makes it more difficult earlier on, so be gentle with yourself as the weeks go by.
I use this belt from NuMomz https://www.amazon.com/dp/B078QCFZ4B/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glc_fabc_727EHCKXBX6VG34WN4AC
I bought this one after trying a huge typical pregnancy pillow and hating it: link I like that I can switch sides at night and still have support without rearranging anything.
Yes! It's this one by Dr. Browns. It's "supposed" to be for formula but works exactly the same and perfectly with breastmilk. I'm part of a FB group for exclusive pumpers and almost everyone uses it. It makes things a lot easier!
We have the Infant Optics monitor, which was highly recommended by so many people I've lost count at this point. But you can buy up to four extra cameras to pair to it, and you can pan and zoom in with the cameras too. We LOVE it!
I just got the courage to start one this week, and I must say I am happy I did. The link is below. It’s not perfect for IVF but any pages that don’t make sense I just put pictures over the words and write my own captions. I like this one bc it’s very plain and not cutesy. I also am not doing a shower or finding out the gender so again, just glued in more pictures and captions of my own. I like the prompts and didn’t feel too cheesy filling it out, instead I felt excited.
I found one that taps in the sink hot water with just a splitter and no new plumbing or electricity required (I think it's this one. That worked for really well for our main floor powder room that has a pedestal sink and the toilet. I appreciate the "feminine wash" setting.
I have one with out hot water in our master bathroom water closet because there's no electric or plumbing easily accessible and actually don't find it to be bad. It can be a bit... refreshing sometimes, but mostly because we are on well water so when it's pulling water that's not been in the pipes the water is ~40F degrees in winter.
I’m so sorry! I read this book after a MMC and it helped me figure things out. It looks like you’ve done some of these tests. My RE put me on levothyroxine bc my TSH was 2.5
Is Your Body Baby Friendly?: How "Unexplained" Infertility, Miscarriage and IVF Failure Can Be Explained and Treated https://www.amazon.com/dp/0978507851/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_4MO9Eb1E24Q4M
LIST OF TESTS FOR RPL PANEL - Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT); - anti-thrombin III activity - beta 2 glycoprotein1 IgA, IgG, IgM; - dRVVT - Factor II - Factor V Leiden - Factor VIII - MTFHR Mutation - Natural Killer Cells - Protein C activity - Protein S (total) - Protein S antigen (free) - Protime (prothrombin) - Partial Thomboplastin Time - Rh blood type
Hormonal - Thyroid Stimulating Hormone
Immune - Antiphospholipid Antibodies: anti-phosphatidylserine (IGG/M/A) - Antiphospholipid Antibodies: anti-cardiolipin (IGG/M/A) - Antiphospholipid Antibodies: Lupus anticoagulant - Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) activity;
We have a wifi home security camera (it's a Foscam, I will try to add the link on mobile) from Amazon that can be viewed on any mobile device with the app or from a web browser. I got it when my dog was a puppy so I could check on her from work. You can rotate the camera something like 270 degrees, it has two way audio (have to trigger to talk through it) and infrared for nighttime viewing. You can also snap screenshots or record video, and set it up to start recording if there's motion. I think it was like $70?
You have to log in with two passwords and it's not accessible outside our home wifi so my Army husband feels confident in the security. He may change it when we goes back to work from paternity leave, we'll see.
We plan to mostly use an old iPhone with a docking station to view with, but i can use my bigger iPad or laptop screen if I want.
Edit: here's the new version of what we have! Comes in HD now.
Foscam FI9821PB Plug & Play 720p Wireless/Wired Pan/Tilt IP Indoor Security Camera with Night Vision, Motion Detection Alerts, Two-Way Audio and Remote Viewing (Black)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00H3Q8QB4/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Dq6Cyb8GA9DMK
The Angelcare monitor is on sale right now on Amazon for 43% off.
ETA: I haven't researched monitors yet and have no idea what is worth it or not worth it. I was just reading this thread last night and saw that monitor come up a couple of times so I thought I'd pass along the info about the sale for anyone interested.
I got mine from Nordstrom - the brand is Kimmy and Kai - but then eventually found out there's a knockoff brand called Momo Maternity that's sold on Amazon (example: https://www.amazon.com/Momo-Maternity-Hooded-Sweatshirt-Tunic/dp/B00MR25EXW/ref=sr_1_1?s=apparel&ie=UTF8&qid=1492622479&sr=1-1&nodeID=7581675011&psd=1&keywords=hoodie+momo), at JCPenney, etc, for way less! They don't always have all the styles Nordstrom does but like you said, it's better than your husband's big ones.
This one was my ultimate fav. Worth every damn penny: http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/kimi-and-kai-thea-zip-collar-maternity-sweatshirt/4469459?origin=category-personalizedsort&fashioncolor=NAVY
Hart covered everything very well! I stayed in the hospital as long as possible so I could have extra help and an easier time getting in and out of bed. Use the belly binder, take pain meds ASAP, and DO NOT start doing too much too fast. I was up and about within a week, and I didn't seem to have trouble. I ended up with hernia(s) along my c-section scar that if I don't have another child, I will need removed surgically. The car ride home was brutal for me, we have a bumpy road and train tracks and I thought I was going to pass out, so don't plan errands or stops on the way home.
I wished I had one of those reading pillows to have myself already half propped up to get out of bed easier. Or strategically place things you can use to help you stand up/sit down so you're not using your core as much. Buy good pads because changing them will be inconvenient so you'll want the super absorbing ones. Or even just depends or another adult diaper. If you dont have one of those trash grabber stick things, get one now because it will be useful when you are enormous AND when recovering.
Agree! I had a c-section four weeks ago, and if you're in the U.S., I've really liked these underwear and this belly binder. I was using the one from the hospital a few weeks, but it got dirty and I was sick of needing help putting it on. The Amazon one I can do myself.
Everything on the shelf I drew in Adobe Illustrator and printed. The “these are the days I never want to forget” came from TJ Maxx Homegoods. The canvas art was from Amazon. The dog painting is a portrait of one of our dogs painted by my little sister.
Lately one of James favorite things is picking up a framed photo we have in the kitchen of my family (including my sisters & their husbands and kids, my parents and my husband and I) and waiting for me to point to and name everyone in the photo then saying "more" his favorite word 😂, and I do it again, and again.. he also has started carrying the photo around the house, its really sweet. But, of course he ended up breaking the frame (just the outside, not the glass 😬) and it probably wasn't the safest to begin with (glass and all). So, for a Christmas present for him I've decided to get him a little soft toddler safe photo album that I will put that photo plus others of family in that can be just his ❤️.
I didn't find too many options but this one seems to fit the bill (though a little cheesy).
Back at the doctor's again today. They told me again I'm doing everything I should be doing and nothing is my fault; I'm not doing anything wrong. That's reassuring. They have me trying a new strategy now thanks to /u/silver_bell_. We are trying this super thick medical grade barrier cream that's used for protecting wounds and for people who have incontinence and it doesn't absorb into his diaper or get mushed around. It's called Cavilon: https://www.3mcanada.ca/3M/en_CA/p/d/v000260868/. This Amazon product page explains it really well: https://www.amazon.ca/3M-Cavilon-Durable-Barrier-3392C/dp/B00ZX5F5FC. So we put that on, didn't put anything else on (no vitamin e, no hydrocortisone, no zinc diaper cream), put him in his nighttime diaper, and he's in bed now. We will see how his butt is in the morning. As for the pooping, it's slowed down and isn't straight acid anymore but it's still way more frequent than normal and he's still sharting, but it does seem to finally be improving.
Ugh that sounds so frustrating! Does drinking extra water help? Cranberry juice?
On the advice of this sub I bought a water bottle with time-of-day markers (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09JZTYHVK/ref=ppx\_od\_dt\_b\_asin\_title\_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1), because the burning was definitely associated with being slightly dehydrated. Still waiting for it to be delivered but in the meantime plying myself with water seems to help.
Hope you get some relief soon!
You still have to wash them by hand but we have found the munchkin ones pretty throw proof. https://www.amazon.com/Munchkin-Click-Weighted-Straw-Ounce/dp/B07L4DHNVQ/
I haven't tried them but I have been eyeing these ones for the easy cleaning: https://www.amazon.com/Munchkin-Simple-Clean-Straw-Ounce/dp/B09KM9H7J7/
I agree, very misleading! Unfortunately I cant return mine because its been over a year. I got it from my last baby shower for my angel baby.
I’m looking at this mattress link below. I’ll follow up if it fits!
Our Christmas tree is up and I've already bought so much stuff (gifts, decor, you name it). It is never too early for me, lol.
I bought C this balance bike, this shape sorter, and getting the tall H&M giraffe. Maybe also a Cuddle & Kind doll.
For "bigger" items that we're going to buy anyway, but maybe not necessarily as Christmas gifts: Nugget couch once our basement is done, learning tower, and Pottery Barn first anywhere chair.
My parents got her a little sled and my in-laws bought a play kitchen for her birthday otherwise those would have been on the Christmas list as well.
ok I need opinions because my husband is no help! We wash E's hands and face after meals at the kitchen sink because wiping was never an option. I found two toddler towers on FB marketplace and nextdoor. Should I get a [littler partners toddler tower!(https://www.amazon.com/Little-Partners-Orignal-Learning-Natural/dp/B001ECHXVC) that is slightly too low (~2in) for E and our counters for $70 or a Bateso Toddler Learning Step Stool Kid Standing Tower! that is the right size for $105.
I bought these boy short style ones and they were so comfy that I bought another pack. I seriously wear them every day.
I also got these thick cotton ones. Also comfy but have been harder to wear as I transition back into my regular clothes because they are super high waisted. They were nice and supportive and the seam didn’t irritate my incision.
I really liked these post c-section -- bought them in one size larger and they didn't bother my incision.
I liked these. Cauniss Womens High Waist Cotton... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F6T1XG7?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Pre pregnancy size worked for me. Didn’t need disposable underwear after leaving the hospital.
Ah, I'm sorry! This stuff is amazing* if you're looking for a cleaner.
*TMI warning but amazing cleaner testimonial: my pp periods have been extremely heavy. So much so that I bled through my pants onto our cream colored couch. Folex got it all out!
We also just do water baths. Even then, we only did them 2-3 times per week until she started solids. I use my lotion on her - Everyone Nourishing Unscented - after checking with the pediatrician. The baby lotion that we used at first from Pipette did not work for her. We also use the Tubby Todd All Over Ointment for any super dry spots or anywhere with drool rash.
When she was itty bitty like your guy, I did lotion and TT twice a day every day even when I didn't do a bath. The heat was running in our home at the time so the air was very dry. I think it is normal for them to get very dry after those initial baths when the vernix is gone.
In case this helps you, we do use a little bit of baby wash on her hair because she gets greasy if we don't. We have a little sponge that is scrubby on one side. That really helped with the cradle cap. The sponge gets gross so I change them out pretty often.
Is the issue the top of the stairs or the bottom? Top I think would have to be drilled but the bottom you can use pressure or retractable. I bought one of these to go across my hallway to keep bub in the kitchen with me, it works really well. You can either use the sticky pads or the hardware it comes with.
This is just a little thing but one I’ve found incredibly useful: cushion cup holder When you’re feeding baby or nap trapped on the couch, it’s really hard to lean forward to pick-up a glass off the coffee table. I put my water, phone and tv remote in here and place it next to me before I start feeding her.
I've had success with this Nuby weighted straw sippy cup. It was one of the first cups we tried, but my girl took to it really quickly. I like that it functions as a sippy cup and a weighted straw cup, and is spill-proof. It pools/catches the water at the top of the spout, so it doesn't require a ton of suction, there is always a bit of water there waiting for them. It does require them to bite on the spout a bit for water to come out (since its spill proof).
Ugh I’m sorry. The headaches are rough. Have you bought a headache ice pack hat thing yet? I’ve gotten bad hormonal headaches that drugs don’t touch since starting stims and for some reason never pulled the trigger on buying one. I got this one a week or two ago and it’s pretty incredible. Chenove Migraine Ice Head Wrap,... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09TSY89WW?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I haven’t gotten to this point yet but one of my friends recommended the zipadee zip for when my baby starts to roll. She said it has worked great for her kids when they need to stop swaddling.
It depends on how much space you have on your tent, but we brought our normal travel setup (lotus crib with sheet, hatch/music thing, stuffed animal, and a blanket). In cold weather, we use this. It worked really well.
When she was small, we snuggled with her, but we all slept better when she had her own space as that's what we do at home.
As for outfits, I'd get 2 pieces (top and bottom) if you can or have one where it's easy access to change the diaper otherwise bb will get chilly. I like hoods more than hats because Abbi doesn't yeet them away. Also building fires, having extra layers/socks for baby and blankets!
Here to recommend these nursing tanks Women's Maternity Nursing Tank... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VCMT57N?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share Much better than the old navy ones I have. I’ll be living in these and a cardigan/ robe for the rest of my maternity leave!
I’m cheap so I bought Amazon packs. They have underwear that goes over the bump or under the bump, or this kind that folds if you want to do both. I prefer over the bump. I bought them for pregnancy but tbh still wore them postpartum and just kept going. Not sure I’m ever gonna go back.
We had great success with this Nuby 360 weighted straw cup baby figured it out almost immediately and I like that it functions as a Skippy cup and a straw cup. We still practice with an open cup at meals.