Like a kettle drum

I used to have a constant low-grade headache.  It took years of allergy shots, some other medications, and even some acupuncture for them to become a periodic occurrence.  Granted I haven't had an allergy shot in a month and a half at this point (which probably doesn't help) but they also say headaches are a common occurrence during pregnancy due to increased blood volume and whatnot.  Then there is the possibility that my eyes/vision could be shifting too.  I'm not sure if my eyes are hurting because they're straining more and causing the headache or if they're hurting because of the headache.

I really should not be complaining about this suffering as I know I'm getting off very easy compared to many during their pregnancies.  (I haven't vomited once and only have a bit of round ligament pain, an itchy back, and some discomfort finding a good sleeping position.)  But man, I could do without the headaches. You don't realize how much you were hurting until they go away - I swear it amplifies the pain when you do have a headache.

I caved the night before last and took some acetaminophen to knock it out.  But less than 36 hours later and it's back.

I just couldn't wait

I couldn't not tell him.  I told him that same day when he came over.  I am still not ready to put the gender result here since we didn't tell his family yet or the closer than random internet viewers circle (facebook).

Of course, now that I can shop in non-neutral colors I am not finding much I adore.  That's probably for the best, I don't need to go spending a ton of money or buying a bunch of stuff.

All is well!

There is nothing better than the call that tells you everything came back negative on your MaterniT21 test.  This is a healthy (chromosomal-wise) baby!  Yes, I'm crying.  I have an answer on gender too - but I'm not ready to post that here.  I admit, I am thinking about not telling my guy until he finds out at the next ultrasound so he can experience that same level of surprise as I am but I don't think I can keep it quiet.  Not certain yet.

Some Positive Negative Results

Cystic Fibrosis negative.  No UTI this time.  The MaterniT21 test isn't back yet.  Hopefully the nurse will be the one to call instead of the doctor when it does arrive - we all know what that would mean.  I do feel I'm good to go - but I guess I'm eager for the results to also find out gender.  I didn't realize I was so eager to get that answer until the blood was drawn.

The quickening?

This morning laying in bed I could swear I felt that little flutter.  I know it's early for a first time Mom to feel anything, so I worry I was imagining things, but it certainly wasn't gas. It was so light!

Another discovery yesterday - my belly button is changing and not as deep as it was.  Please don't pop out!

Sleep Struggles

I've been trying to train myself to sleep on my side.  I'm normally a back sleeper and they say you shouldn't sleep on your back after a certain point in your pregnancy.  To me, side sleeping is torture.  I toss and turn half of the night as one hip or one shoulder starts to ache.  I've tried the pillows between knees and leaning back on a pillow to no avail.

Couple this with the time change this past weekend and here I am tired as all get out.  Last night I decided to use several of my pillows to prop behind me in a wedge, sitting me partially up so I could sleep close to on my back and get some rest.  I did sleep, but I am still working to find another solution.

In good news, while it isn't completely gone, my itchy back no longer has me wanting to remove all of the flesh each evening.  No word back from the blood draws and tests from last Thursday just yet.

Ob Appointment Update

I had my monthly Obgyn appointment today.  It was a bit of a wait, like an hour past my appointment time before I was taken back, so the water I had guzzled to make sure my veins were ready was already overflowed out the other side.

Today's heartbeat came in at a solid and well within typical range of 150bpm.  They needed to redo a platelet draw from last visit as something went awry there, so I was already getting stuck today.  After discussing some of the optional tests with my sweetheart I did have them add a few other items on the draw including a cystic fibrosis carrier test and a multiple test that may highlight any possible abnormalities as well as offer up gender information before the next ultrasound.  We draw the line at poking holes in the placenta at this point, but heaven knows if anything comes back abnormal we may need to rethink other tests.

Yes, they needed to try and hit both arms for the blood again today.  At least the second time was a charm.  Unbelievable given how much water I had drank before the appointment.

I also asked about the incredible back itch and had my concerns put at ease with regard to potential liver issues that show symptoms like this.

I'm still not seeing my weight jump upward, but I'm not sure what the diff was between doctor's visits.  Heaven knows clothes could alter that too.

Worries and planning ahead

I had a little spotting this morning when I made my first potty stop that scared me a little.  Again, given my past experience I know how dramatic a problem is, so I am not freaking out.  One more week until my next appointment, but I feel eager for it to check in and make sure all still sounds good there.  I get why some people buy their own fetal heart monitors.

My skin continues to be itchy on my back, but my stomach and chest are better at this point.

I did start a registry, not because I want people to buy me stuff - quite the contrary - but I know I can get a discount on items through Amazon if they're on my list.  It's also forcing me to research some items and determine what type of things we'd want and what the differences are (like carseats - infant or convertible).  This is going to be a lot of research.