Oh Blessed Motherhood

Please "Follow" Me at Kite Family

2011-02-11T14:01:00.000-05:00

Dear friends and followers,

I have decided to import these posts into our Kite Family blog (www.kitefamily.us), and to post to that one exclusively (at least for now). Please follow us there, if you are not already.

Have a great weekend. :)

Ahlia's Birth Story

2010-05-03T20:43:00.000-04:00

"Thank you" goes to my midwife apprentice, Janna Grapperhaus, for the labor notes that helped me detail this story. :-) Please feel free to ask me any questions about my pregnancy, labor, or delivery! You may comment here or contact me directly (see the About Me page).

baby shower, 2/24/10

Mon, 3/15/10 - Some surges/contractions in my lower back kept me up for a couple of hours. Finally fell back asleep after listening to my HypnoBirthing Rainbow Relaxation a couple of times. In the coming week, braxton hicks cx continued as they had for weeks...

Fri, 3/19/10 - Weekly checkup - 2 cm dilated, 20% effaced, 0 station. Cervix in a posterior position. Getting increasingly difficult to be comfortable sleeping.

Mon, 3/22/10 - Had some minor swelling over the weekend and gained 5 lb! Midwife wanted to see me. BP normal, 128/70. Need to push fluids and protein. 3 cm dilated, 50% effaced, 0 station, cervix more anterior. Great progress!

Tue, 3/23/10 - Saw a pink tinge of "birth show" late morning and increase in cervical fluid. Feeling a good bit of downward pressure after a surge. Could it happen in the next 2 days? Still no name chosen... Are we really going to be the parents of two any time now???

Thu, 3/25/10 - mw appointment. Actually, I'm 2 cm dilated. 3 cm measurements (above) is a different type of measurement (external vs. internal os). But... 70% effaced!

Fri, 3/26/10 - Sent Zyler to Grandmom's house until Sunday and Jason and I went out to eat at the Outback. My plate included: 6-oz sirloin, sweet potato, mixed veggies, and we shared a very rich peanut butter pie dessert. I really shouldn't have... I was so full! Also saw my friend J.B. there. She was not in a very good place emotionally, but as we chatted outside, she encouraged me and J. to "dtd" (abb. for "do the deed") that night. I had already been considering... maybe tonight, maybe tomorrow? We came home and did decide to, before retiring at 11 PM (2300)!

So, I put in my Rainbow Relaxation CD...

@ 2315, I had a couple of Braxton Hicks type contractions, and I felt a tiny "gush!" It was so small, that I wasn't sure if it was amniotic fluid or any other type of fluid... but I went ahead and called my midwife, Janna. At the time, she was an advanced student being supervised by 2 other women for my pregnancy who are both CPMs and CNMs. (I had a lot of knowledge and expertise at the ready!) She called them to check in and formulate a plan. We had tested with a couple of pH strips and determined that most likely my water broke! It happened that quickly. (J. said later that it was perhaps a coincidence. Did sex really get labor going?? Yes, I believe it did!) The "head" supervising midwife agreed that Janna should go ahead and come to my house to check things out. We agreed to let Jason sleep so that at least one parent was rested. He can be real sleep-deprived grump, anyway. :o)

Sat, 3/27/10, 0135 - Janna arrived. FHT (fetal heart tone) 126, baby LOP (left side, slightly posterior), ctx 10-15 minutes apart, lasting 30 seconds. Once again, as with baby Z., all ctx are felt in my very lower back near my tailbone... I stayed downstairs to labor while we let J. rest in our bedroom. I had to keep going in the room, though, to get labor supplies and woke him a few times.

After much debate, it is finally decided to do a sterile speculum exam to determine for sure if my water had broken. I would have preferred not to, but the supervising midwives wanted to be sure if the "clock" had started ticking or not so we could do everything possible to not need to do a hospital transfer at 12 hours out... So I got our dog, Indy, outside to get him out of the way.

0230 - sterile exam, lots of fluid pooling, vernix is visible (which I now realize I saw in my "earlier" waters), confirmed also on pH test that my waters had broken. Pulse 88, BP 128/82.

There was also debate about an induction via castor oil. Again, my caregivers were uneasy about my water being broken and the "clock" (I was also GBS+), and the supervising midwife really preferred induction via castor oil. In the end, I agreed to it. Janna uses herbs and homeopathy to induce so I had what you might say a triple whammy! I didn't mind too much this type of "intervention" (OK, I did mind the castor oil later on!), but I still wonder what my body might have done on its own...

0235 - 2 oz castor oil in root beer float

0250 - Hibiclens wash (for GBS+ treatment)

0258-0400 - series of herbs and homeopathic tinctures

0310 - FHT 136

0330 - 2nd dose - 2 oz castor oil in root beer float

0345 - ctx 8-10 min, 30-40 sec

0400 - FHT 142; ctx 6-8 min, 30-45 sec

0420-0435 - ctx were clearly picking up... I'm doing the low moaning with each one, as I had experienced with Z. Here is where I got queasy and tried to ignore my tummy cramping. Then I decided I really should let Janna know, and she got a pail for me "just in case." I'm lying on the couch listening to lovely Hypnobirthing music this whole time, and all of a sudden, good thing that pail was there. Up came that second root beer float! Poor Janna said she had quite a time cleaning the castor oil out of the pail! At this point my ctx really pick up and become much stronger and closer together.

Around this time (I think) I actively thought I might be in that intriguing "transition" period. I actually remember hitting that wall that some many women speak of and thinking during some ctx, "I don't know if I can do this!" I didn't tell Janna my thoughts as I was trying to stay "in my zone."

0430 - I believe this is when we woke Jason and told him to get the birth pool ready!

0444 - Janna calls supervising midwives; ctx 4-6 min, 45-60 sec

0500 - start moving upstairs! Had some strong ctx leaning against the walls... Janna canceled Jason on the birth pool set up. :( No time!

0523 - I got on the bed and Janna finally had a chance to check me. I'm at 10 cm, but with a fat cervical lip. I was really wanting to push, but she tells me to blow through the ctx so as not to tear my cervix and try to get the swelling on my cervix to reduce. I tried hands and knees but it was really uncomfortable during a ctx, so I get on my right side. While on hands and knees, though, I urinated a lot. I actually was a little confused as to what type of fluid it was... It surprised me so! But I remember Janna reassuring me that it was OK; the baby was descending. This was a relief as I had had a bit of anxiety about making sure my bladder was empty since it had gotten so full with Z's birth that I could not push him out without a straight cath.

Jason tries to call the 2 photographers we had lined up but neither answered their phones...

0535 - Midwife #2 arrives. Janna still telling me to blow through my ctx. Can I strangle her instead? ;-) FHT 136; ctx 3-5 min apart. J calls my mom to let her know "it's time." I wanted her to be able to be there to experience a normal birth. She thought he meant I was just going into labor, though, so she and dad were taking their time...

0543 - FHT 145

0545 - FHT 140s; midwives see small bits of baby hair at ctx peak! Can I get this baby out yet??

0554 - Midwife #1 arrives; Janna reduces the cervical lip by pushing it back over the baby's head. I actually felt a bit of relief in the pain when she does this. Time to actively push! I'm still on my right side...

0555-0603 - FHT remains in 130s-140s

0606 - FHT 150s; baby is crowning! The stretching of that tissue is such an intense feeling!

0608 - FHT 130s

0610 - FHT 110; full crown!

0611 - Mom's here! My dad stayed downstairs but she called him up. Poor Daddy, hope it wasn't too traumatic and awkward for you. At that point, getting ready to push her out, I don't think I would have cared what blood relative would have walked in.

3/27/10 0613 - I remember baby Z pretty much shooting out, but Ahlia's head came out and her body stopped! Her chunky shoulders were stuck... I looked down at my midwives, like, what do I do? Midwife #1 asked to give a big push, and Janna helped wiggle her shoulders out. My sweet Ahlia is in my arms! She still didn't have a name at that point, but "Baby Girl Kite" was good enough at the time. :)

0614 AM - Mamma and Baby Girl

I did receive a 2nd degree tear once again due to her chunky shoulders. Midwife #1 kindly and lovingly sutured me, and from what I can tell I have healed well!

I felt tired after laboring all night, but not even close to the fatigue I felt after the 15+ hour labor with Z when I was in "transition" for probably 10 hours!

Ahlia received a healthy exam with 8 and 9 apgar scores.

1200 - Finally, the effects of the first castor oil dose! I spent a half hour on the toilet, almost 6 hours after Ahlia's arrival! Ugh.

What an empowering experience! I still can not put it adequately into words. I felt very empowered with an almost natural birth with Z, but something about having her at home made a big difference. I trust birth, and I trust home birth is very safe for "low risk" pregnancies, so I know we made the right decision... It was not a decision made just for me to have "the comforts of home." I wish all women could better understand their options! I truly believe more women would choose birth with a midwife, be it at home or in a birth center.

Thank you, Janna, for everything! And thanks to the supervising midwives and all who helped us along the way. It was big journey for me and a quite stressful pregnancy. Now, the real fun - the infant stage (again) and raising a brother and sister! Ahlia, you are 5 weeks old now and have brought so much joy to our household already! Our family is so blessed!! Thanks be to God!

Zyler 27 months, Ahlia 1 month. He loves cuddling "Baby Sister" :)

Please Consider Donating Toward My "March for Babies" on May 1... or Join Our Family Team!

2010-04-12T14:59:00.000-04:00

one day... all babies will be born healthy

today... too many moms and families know the heartbreak of having a baby born fighting to survive

I have been truly blessed with a very healthy son (b. January '08) and daughter (b. March 27, 2010)!

I've joined March for Babies because the March of Dimes champions the needs of moms and babies in our community and across the nation. The money we raise for March for Babies will help:

support all-important research offering preventions and solutions for babies born too soon or with birth defects
educate women on things they can do to increase their chances of having a healthy baby
provide comfort and information to families with a newborn in intensive care
push for newborn screening and health insurance for all pregnant women and children

Please help by donating today! It's easy, safe and secure - just click to make your donation.

Thanks so much for supporting this worthy cause!!

The mission of March of Dimes is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality.

Your gift will support March of Dimes research and programs that help moms have full-term pregnancies and babies begin healthy lives. And it will be used to bring comfort and information to families with a baby in newborn intensive care.

Or, walk with me and join our "Kite Family" team by following this link!
http://www.marchforbabies.org/team/t1433037

Proud Momma!!

2010-03-23T14:50:00.000-04:00

Drum roll please... A few days ago--I believe on Saturday--Zyler, at 26 months, peed in his potty for the first time!

He and I had finished his bath, and he wanted to sit on his potty as usual and was repeating "pee potty!" I tried to wait patiently as he stared up at me. I got the feeling I wasn't supposed to stay in the room! (Like his Daddy already!) So, I asked him if he wanted Mommy to go in the hallway, and I told him I'd come back in when he was finished. I left the door cracked so I could watch him through the mirror but he got up and shut to door on me! I softly cracked it back open to look and saw that he was sitting on the potty again. I opened the door a few moments later to check and he said "pee, potty!" Indeed, he had gotten it all in his potty!

It is so funny how proud we are of those "firsts!" I couldn't contain myself and made such a big deal of it, of course. The next evening we tried again with Daddy helping with bath time but while we went in the hallway, he proceeded to pee all over the 1978 shag carpet. LOL!! I laughed and Daddy kind of threw up his hands. We were hoping we'd have a few more months before that started. Maybe we will have to redecorate the kids' bathroom sooner rather than later. ;-)

Abdominal Binder

2010-03-22T14:22:00.004-04:00

Last Friday I began wearing an "abdominal binder" for a slightly "pendulous uterus/abdomen." I looked for link to help explain these terms but had trouble finding very much pertinent info. I did find this, though, from Spinning Babies:

Using a pregnancy belt for transverse lie
When the lower abdomen is loose, as with a pendulous uterus, add a pregnancy belt to create an improved slope to the lower uterine segment.

A pregnancy belt helps the uterine ligaments hold the uterus upright so the baby can get into an upright position.

For the mom with loose ligaments, I would suggest wearing a pregnancy belt in the fifth month through to labor, and for very loose moms with a pendulous womb, then wearing the belt through pushing the baby out is safest.

Women with tight ligaments can wear a pregnancy belt too for the support is actually relaxing.

It does help my belly and back feel more supported. I kind of wish I had started wearing it a couple of months ago. I need to take it off at night as it is a bit difficult to sleep with, but it could be that I don't have quite the right size.

I do not have a sideways baby, however! The concern from my midwives is that my uterus cannot work as efficiently if it is slightly angled. Peanut is at 0 station and in good position, so getting her engaged in the cervix is not the concern. We just don't want her to "cook" for too long and get too big if my uterus is not working as efficiently as it could be.

Hypnobirthing Review

2010-03-17T16:01:00.000-04:00

(Side note: I am toying around with Blogger's new templates. You likey?)

On Tuesday my advanced student midwife, Janna, hosted Jason and me in her home for a Hypnobirthing review and "fear release" meditation. She is, conveniently enough, also a Hypnobirthing practitioner. We reviewed my breathing techniques and the light touch massage that is oh-so relaxing.

For maybe a week or more, I have been practicing my Rainbow Relaxation script on the CD every night before I fall asleep. Some nights I am unconscious through most of the colors and regain consciousness as the script is ending! :-)

In the past several days, I've experienced a couple of nights of a few productive surges (contractions) that wake me up. No other major labor signs so far, so I guess my body is just "practicing" and strengthening my uterus! I'm hopeful that I will be able to continue getting decent rest... Fingers crossed.

More "Month 9" Ups & Downs

2010-03-08T15:58:00.000-05:00

Time for a few more ups and downs:

Downs ... with Ups

I tested positive again for GBS, as I did with Zyler. (See previous GBS posts.) Not a huge concern, as many women choose not to get the test and deliver perfectly healthy babies... but my supervising midwives were especially concerned for different reasons. I wanted to proceed with a home birth, so we decided to have me test again after I had been diligent about various measures to eradicate the bacteria. The drama and stress of the situation was great, due to details not appropriate for this public media, but we were successful and got a negative result! So, we have a plan of action for treatment during labor, as well as while I am still pregnant (including garlic and a chlorhexidine wash). I am trusting that all will work out as it should. I prayed for God to let me know if I should return to a hospital-planned birth (for IV antibiotics), but I have yet to receive that message. So, just another down that has become an "up." :)
No imminent signs of labor... but my midwives are hoping I make it at least another week so as to have as strong a baby as possible. (See above bullet.) At my last checkup, however, they guesstimated a good-sized baby at maybe 7.25 lb.
Got a little cold from Zyler. Nothing too miserable, though.
I'm still feeling relatively good. Sleep is pretty good (most nights), and my diastasis recti isn't quite as painful as a few weeks ago.
Zyler's new room (aka "blue room") is coming along. (I know, we need to get some pictures!) Jason and his dad got the sub-floor installed. Now, to purchase new hardwood flooring.

A Wake Up Story | Seventh Generation

2010-03-01T13:46:00.000-05:00

A moving clip about the safety of our homes... See original post here:
A Wake Up Story | Seventh Generation

A Wake-Up Story from Healthy Child Healthy World on Vimeo.

Ups & Downs

2010-02-28T16:34:00.000-05:00

I'm well overdue for an update, so I thought I'd share one in the form of a few ups and downs.

First, some downs:

I've had off and on struggles with increased intensity of Braxton Hicks contractions. They are definitely more noticable this go around, and with my diastasis recti again, the more intense contractions only aggravate those tearing muscles...
We probably won't have Zyler's new room ready in time to move him before his little sister arrives... but not a big deal. It will all work out. The baby will start in our room anyway.
After two appeals, our health insurance carrier continues to deny coverage of the home birth and prenatal care. The home birth I can somewhat understand, but I am still fighting for the prenatal care. I'm not hopeful for a "win" on this battle, but at least I can say that I tried. Anyone out there happen to have any experience with civil action under ERISA?
Still undecided on "Peanut's" legal name. It was a very difficult decision for us for Zyler, too. He was a day old before we committed.

And, the ups:

My checkups have all been great. No reason for concerns... Peanut moves a lot and is in excellent position. My midwives are confident I will have a much quicker labor this time. We recently had my home visit where they delivered the birth pool (on loan), went over some other supplies, and walked us through a mock birth "just in case" Peanut decides to appear before they arrive!
A HUGE thanks to Mom & Dad Kite for all their decorating help (again!). They have ripped up the carpeting and painted beautiful blue in the spare bedroom (Z's new room). You guys rock!!
My friend at church insisted on throwing us another baby shower. (She hosted one for Zyler, as well.) So, we have a very adorable start on girl's clothing. I had bought some cute things on Craigslist, as well, and Zyler's infant clothing is in really good shape. Thank you again, Corey!

... 'til next time!

Birth Matters Virginia: The Estimated Due Date - Are you "Overdue"?

2010-02-18T11:15:00.001-05:00

I could not have explained it better! Are you "overdue?" Don't miss the last link on this blog post... ;)

Birth Matters Virginia: The Estimated Due Date - Are you "Overdue"?

For what it's worth, this is a big reason why I did not announce our "due date" this time. The anxiety that builds for mama around that "date" is bad enough for me and my midwives, that I don't need family and friends adding to it. She will come when she's ready. :o) And, if need be, I will work with the midwives that "guess week" in attempts to coax her out. ;-)

Maternity Proofs Posted

2010-02-15T06:19:00.000-05:00

Sherri posted the proofs from our recent shoot. You will need to scroll down a bit on the page, past the video. Enjoy!

IUD and Birth Control

2010-02-13T14:30:00.000-05:00

I have been doing some reading on the IUD for birth control. I thought there were two types available in the U.S., but one source is telling me the only option is the Mirena brand. Can anyone provide any feedback on the IUD, good or bad? Shoot a comment to the blog...

Based on my reading, I am wary of using it the first year since I want to breastfeed again. Long term breastfeeding rates appear "iffy" at first glance. Hmmmmm. Besides, a part of me wants to stay and has stayed far away from hormonal BC... I hated the affects of the Pill, but I know hormonally the Pill is different from the IUD progesterone-only... The pros of the IUD are appealing...

Interesting contradictions here on Wikipedia for nursing mothers. As usual, Kellymom.com has some good info also.

Homebirth Coloring Book

2010-02-11T14:32:00.000-05:00

What a cute coloring/story book to share with your young child prior to a home birth. Too bad they left out the actual birth. :) Coloring Book - North Carolina Homebirth

Maternity Photos Preview

2010-02-11T08:59:00.000-05:00

At 33 weeks preggo, Jason, Zyler and I spent a nice time with Sherri Patrick Heishman of Twist and Snap Photography. Here is a beautiful video preview of our photos. Enjoy!

We haven't gotten to preview them in person, yet, but I think I will be pleased. Zyler was too shy to hug my belly like he does at home, but hopefully we still got some nice family shots for the memory books. :)

Podcast - Homebirth 101: The Home Court Advantage

2009-12-28T15:27:00.000-05:00

This is a great podcast about all things pregnancy! I have barely missed an episode.

Homebirth 101: The Home Court Advantage
What exactly is homebirth? Who is a good candidate and why might you want to consider a homebirth? How and why a homebirth is safe. When is a homebirth not recommended, and what's the plan of action if hospital transfer becomes necessary? What are the costs and what does insurance cover? And, thoughts on young siblings being present during a birth. Midwife Marla Hicks is this week's guest on PregTASTIC Pregnancy Podcast.
URL to article: http://www.pregtastic.com/homebirth-101-the-home-court-advantage/

Heartburn = Baby Has Lots of Hair?

2009-12-09T16:54:00.000-05:00

I look forward to finding out if this "Old Wive's Tale" one is true!

I have begun to experience more and more heartburn with this pregnancy. With Zyler, I only had it at night when I lay down, and well into the third trimester.

Some natural remedies that can help (which I have yet to try):

raw almonds
yogurt
spacing out eating and drinking
papaya tablets

Have others to share? It seems to be worse with spicy foods, so I will probably need to watch that.

A Plan and Mini Update

2009-11-27T10:47:00.000-05:00

Once again, we have a plan of action. Such a relief! So much to be thankful for in this Thanksgiving season...

Janna has a contact who is a CNM (certified nurse midwife) and a CPM (certified professional midwife), and that midwife also works with another combo CNM-CPM midwife. We consulted and had a lovely discussion, and afterward, due to their schedule constraints, they decided I would see each of them at every other visit (Janna will attend every visit). All 3 ladies expressed interest in being at the birth, so Jason and I really feel as though we are getting a "3-for-1" kind of a deal. A few of the details are a bit confusing the way they want to organize it, but overall I am feeling a great sense of peace about our decision. These 2 certified midwives are very experienced in just about every setting imaginable!

I never sit down to stare at the "tube" very often and happened to watch several back-to-back episodes of A Baby Story, which depicts traditional births in a hospital setting. It made me even more confident with our home birth plan.

I am feeling well overall and "Peanut" is moving lots. I can tell she is getting stronger each day. That's right, we're expecting a girl! Part of me is not getting overly excited for a girl as I half expect her to grow that extra appendage that was somehow hiding during the ultrasound.

Zyler is 22 months old and is talking a ton. He tried to repeat just about anything we say, so watch your language! ;-) Sometimes I will ask him to say "hi" to the baby in my belly and he will give my belly a hug. Too precious!

Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Some Bad News...

2009-11-04T17:40:00.000-05:00

First off, Peanut is fine! We had our ultrasound last week... more on that later!

My midwife called me as I was almost home on Friday. She has to "release me from care" to put it in legal terms. She had a terrible loss a few of weeks ago. Her best friend died in a terrible car accident and left behind 8 children who look to V. as their second mother. Needless to say, she has been through a lot of stress, and, through prayer, came to the conclusion that she needs to withdraw from midwifery right now.

I completely understand her position and respect her decision 100%. I am very thankful that she did not try to "do it all" and then realize in my 30+ weeks period that she couldn't pull through for me. However, with all the time and discernment I have put into the decision to home birth and interview and find the right midwife for me, I was heartbroken and very upset all evening.

Right now we are leaning toward hiring her student assistant who I am very familiar with already, Janna Grapperhaus. She is close to being a CPM but not quite finished, and she has some options for me of CPMs she can hire to supervise her. Many details to figure out and questions to ask, but I have recently heard rave reviews of Janna's services and abilities which makes me all the more confident in her as a midwife.

Please keep us in your prayers during this discernment process (once again)!

Baby "Nudges"

2009-10-24T11:43:00.000-04:00

I've been feeling little baby "nudges" (as I like to call them) or "flutters" for about a week now. Very reassuring that baby is well... Go baby!! :-)

Pregnancy & Lactation Tea

2009-10-22T20:59:00.001-04:00

My midwife requires use of this "NORA" tea for all her clients and believes in its benefits strongly for the health of mama, baby, and to help prevent potential problems during labor.

I prepare it each night and drink a quart of it each day! I am new to tea infusions, the taste took some getting used to, but now it is becoming habit and I am starting to actually enjoy the taste.

If you would like to ask her more questions about it or purchase the tea mixture (1 lb for $12.00), please contact her directly at the phone number or address at the end of the document.

Study - Homebirth is Safe & Regulations Governing the Practice of Licensed Midwives in VA

2009-10-11T14:00:00.000-04:00

My midwife gave me two documents I will share with you if you are interested. The first one I found to be quite an interesting read, the study from the British Medical Journal "Outcomes of Planned Home Births with Certified Professional Midwives: Large Prospective Study in NA."

The second was a copy of the "Regulations Governing the Practice of Licensed Midwives" from the Virginia Board of Medicine. Download it from this page. Kind of dry, but a brief read.

First Midwife Appointment

2009-10-11T13:47:00.000-04:00

... was Wednesday.
Baby: hr 148 bmp via Doppler; fundal height on target. That "thump thump" sound of the heartbeat is one of the best sounds ever!
Me: BP 110/76; weight up about 7 lb

One of Vickie's assistants did my physical. I am in great health! Yay! :o)

We also discussed the financial agreement and she went over all the rest of the mountain of documents she gave me. She mentioned she was going to drop her billing service but can keep it for me if I want it... What all does submitting your own claims entail? That would be new territory for us. I am crossing my fingers that Southern Health is going to cover part of this birth expense and not just labs and office visits... I have heard different results.

Next appt: in 2 weeks. Need to finalize financial agreement and return my health history and nutritional profile forms.

Baby Movements

2009-10-01T16:08:00.000-04:00

I think I felt those amazing "flutters" earlier today of the baby moving. I think.

Of course, a pregnant lady is pretty darn gassy, too. :o)

Home Birth Plan

2009-09-30T16:07:00.000-04:00

That is, home birth is our birth plan at this time. Jason and I are each in a consensus about the choice, and feel it is safe. I still have somewhat a reservation about it, but when I think of another dozen reservations against another hospital birth. If you recall, I actually did have a relatively good birth experience with Z. However, I was constantly anxious over the strangers coming in and out of my birth room, and I hated the equipment hooked up to me. I know first labors can be very long and tedious--which mine certainly was--but in the back of my mind I still wonder how much more progress I could have made in the comfort of my own home. After all, I arrived at the hospital around 2300 at 8.5 cm dilated and he was born at 1021 the next day... eek!

Many studies have proven it safe. If you feel so inclined and are at all interested in birth issues, please see The Business of Being Born by Ricki Lake. Truly an enlightening documentary about toady's culture and business of childbirth. I found it at my library. It's a very well done film and has been in the press a good deal.

Certainly lots of details to work out... The first of which was choosing a home birth midwife. (I really wish I could hire Z's midwife who was on rotation that night, but alas, as a busy CNM in the hospital setting, I do not see how that could be an option for her.) I was thorough and interviewed all the surrounding licensed CPMs who would see me. I wanted someone I connected with, obviously. But one particular question I asked each one was if she is Christian. I found only one who was both Christian and I felt that connection. After much prayer and discernment, I have chosen Vickie Ligouri of McGaheysville. (Her link may be broken as she is still working out the fun details of getting the site going.) Since we should be keeping God at the center of our lives, I felt it an important question to ask. What better place to begin the Walk than while under prenatal care in the womb? Vickie is experienced but just beginning to get her business off the ground.

I would like to speak with my previous provider (the team of now six CNM's at Rockingham Memorial Hospital) and see if they would see me should we choose to transfer. I would feel most comfortable going to RMH in a non-emergent situation. However, if we are in an emergency, we are only ten minutes from another good hospital, Augusta Health.

Please comment here on the blog (or Facebook, email, etc.) about any feedback you can share or just any info in general. We appreciate all your prayers and good thoughts for our family!

~ Shalom ~

Headaches

2009-09-29T16:39:00.002-04:00

Early 2nd trimester... I have been fighting a horrible headache today. This morning at work the meeting I sat in on was difficult to focus. It actually helped to wear my glasses though. I called my midwife and she thought it was most likely I did not have enough protein yesterday. Interesting! I was watching my protein intake well for the first several weeks but have slacked. Headaches were inconsistent and annoying but had stopped for the last couple of weeks until today. I will try to do better and see if I notice a consistent improvement. Aren't our bodies amazing? Usually there is some sort of message they are sending us -- but sometimes the challenge is interpreting that message!

Priming for a New Role - Pregnancy & "Baby Brain"

2009-09-21T22:26:00.000-04:00

A friend brought me this article that clearly explains "baby" or "Mommy" brain as we mamas are all too familiar!

Pregnant women and animals experience slight decreases in learning and memory—changes that appear to pave the way for cognitive benefits in motherhood and may even advantage mothers as they age.

A couple of weeks ago I thought maybe I was totally losing it. Well, not exactly, but I did know well enough to know my memory problems were related to the pregnancy. I couldn't remember to get Z's prescription for days, which was very unlike me, among countless other silly things I did or didn't do which for the life of me now, I cannot remember!

So have no fear, my fellow preggos. We are normal. We are not crazy after all!

Announcement

2009-09-18T16:52:00.000-04:00

Here's our latest family announcement!

Reducing Infant Mortality

2009-09-05T15:00:00.001-04:00

An excellent short film on the factors surrounding a big problem our families face in the U.S.

Reducing Infant Mortality from Debby Takikawa on Vimeo.

An OB Collaborating with Midwives

2009-08-24T16:11:00.006-04:00

I thought this guy is compelling enough to promote. I sent him a small donation for his legal fight for women's rights to informed consent! Go Doc! http://supportdrfischbein.blogspot.com/2009/08/summary-of-what-is-happening-now.html

Weaning... Another Milestone

2009-08-14T20:52:00.003-04:00

Zyler is 19 months old! Can you believe it?

I think I may have nursed Zyler for the last time on Tuesday evening. Or at least the last time for a while... We had gotten down to just a.m. and p.m. sessions when he was cutting the morning one short a few weeks back. But he hung onto the evening session for a few more weeks, even if the sessions were short and sweet. I've always had trouble off and on getting him to not use me as a teething toy when he has teeth coming in, so I have had mixed feelings on weaning anyway... But I think it was this Wednesday when I went into his room when Daddy was reading him books, and he just wanted to go into bed instead of asking for milk. That has never happened before in my presence! I was miffed in a way but fine with it at the same time. Today I was kneeling down with him and he was looking at my nursing tank top at the clasps and said "milk," not in a request way but just observing, and proceeded to look down my shirt at the source. :) I didn't offer and it was fine.... We'll see if he might request any comfort nursing or such.

Update 8/24: He has started asking for milk again at bedtime for the past several nights... Ah, what a journey. I do have to admit that I was enjoying having my body back...! :o) But I certainly enjoy our BF bond we have...

This is Why I'm Walking on May 2

2009-04-07T16:17:00.002-04:00

Sponsor my walk! I thank you so much!

Sponsor Me at March for Babies

2009-02-24T21:58:00.001-05:00

Please help me reach my goal! It's easy to donate online or mail a check to me. Thanks so much!

Thinking of Topics, & Books

2008-10-30T20:42:00.004-04:00

I have wondered what direction to take this blog. Motherhood is certainly not a boring subject, by any means. But, I feel at this point this is "just another parenting blog." I may journal about a few random subjects while I ponder this. Please comment or email me if you have topic suggestions!

My first more "random" post is to share a starting list of books on my hopeful "to read 1 day" list. The first book -- How to Read the Bible -- is recommended by a friend. I look forward to hearing more about it. I would like to delve more into my spiritual growth by studying more about scripture and being a faithful steward of the reading the Word regularly.

I know my worship should take first priority. But realistically, how does a working Mom find time? Please, offer me some suggestions for taking this leap.

Zyler is a Half-Year Old Today

2008-07-06T17:03:00.004-04:00

I will take a posting lead from a friend and post my life's briefest highlights.

I turned 30 on June 16. There were presents. There was red velvet yummy cake. (Thanks, M-I-L!)
I had my womanly physical last week with the midwife, Ann, who delivered Zyler. She is awesome... All is well. She gave me some other birth control options to consider. I am not considering anything hormonal.
I finally feel like a "Mom."
I love motherhood.
I hate working 40 hours and seeing so little of Zy during the week. Would love to work less, but keep working.
Zyler is doing great. Not an illness to speak of. Still 100% Mommy Milk.
I still pump while away from Zyler. Pumping still sucks. :) But I can't stop.
Zyler is awake once or sometimes none at nights. It's wonderful. I'm still tired, but feel human again!
I cannot believe it's been 6 months. I can remember those days of labor and the birth vividly. My just-about-natural birth = totally empowering.

Sleep 2

2008-05-17T21:08:00.003-04:00

Sleep... it's overrated... right?

I figured out he's not getting enough to eat before Jason and I are in bed. I've tried the "dream feeds" in the past and they didn't seem to help--he would still wake at least twice over night. So, last night I decided it was worth a try again and had Jason give him a full 4 oz bottle of Mommy Milk. He only woke again at 3 AM to eat. Score! Jason gave him another bottle but I was so engorged I had to go downstairs to pump! Doh!

I appreciate the concept and have no basic problem with co-sleeping, but somehow I end up getting even less sleep trying that. Zyler tends to kick and wiggle in the early morning, keeping me awake. I may give it another go during/after that early morning feed, though, and see if it helps me/us get more rest. That way I don't have to use so much energy sitting up to feed him and get him back into bed.

I am certainly open to discussion and comments on the sleep subject!

Sleep?

2008-05-13T20:51:00.002-04:00

Well, on second thought... He isn't quite back to 1 waking per night every night. I am still very tired as he is waking at least twice a night most nights. But I just tell myself that it does get better, and I do remember to cherish those night feedings and cuddles as much as possible. After all, they are tiny for such a short time.

Zyler is 4 Months Old!

2008-05-10T16:00:00.003-04:00

I can't believe it's been 4 months! We just got our bill from the hospital for each of us! And it's already been 4 MONTHS! Zyler is thriving on exclusive Mommy Milk and doing splendidly. Just this week he started rolling to the left a lot in his crib. We often find him sleeping on his tummy or on his tummy and his side. He has finally gotten back down to 1 waking at night. He was waking 2 and 3 times for several weeks. I think a lot had to do with his trying to figure out the rolling over. I am worn out but starting to feel somewhat normal again! He is taking better naps, and he also plays with his rattles and loves to talk and coo to us. He holds his head up well, and likes to play with his feet. No toe sucking yet though. :o)

I am going to attempt going back to work full time this week. I am tired... and also sad to not be with him as much during the day, but hopefully I will find a groove that I will be able to be happy with. He stays with our cousin and his grandmothers while I'm working. That way, he can't wear out just 1 of them. :o)

Beautiful "Angel Mommy" Video

2008-04-05T20:08:00.002-04:00

Yet again, so touching that I couldn't not share! Grab your tissues!

It is hard to imagine life without our Zyler. I know now that he is 1 of the main reasons for my miscarriage. But, you can't help but wonder - what would life be today had we been blessed with that baby? It is hard to believe that he/she would have been around 14 months old already.

He did it! and 12-Week Checkup

2008-04-01T20:22:00.004-04:00

God bless our little guy, he slept through the night last night!! And I don't mean just 5- or 6-hour stretches! He slept from about 7:45 PM til 5 AM when I woke him up to nurse! I also kinda "dream" fed him in his sleep around 9:30 PM.

I can't believe he's 3 months old! We started his vaccinations yesterday. (Poor little guy!!) He weighs 13.5 lb! Big guy! Yay for Mommy Milk!

Why Delay Solid Food?

2008-03-29T20:21:00.002-04:00

Another great breastfeeding article!

http://www.got-breastmilk.org/Whydelay.shtml

Why Delay Solid Food?
By Jennifer VanLaanen-Smit

Reasons for delaying solids:
Recently the American Academy of Pediatrics advised that the healthy, full-term breastfed baby needs nothing other than mother's milk, including supplemental formula, water, juice, cereal, or other solid food, until he is at least six months old. Breastfeeding experts have long been advocating that solids be delayed until *at least* the middle of the baby's first year. What are the benefits of waiting this long?

Dr. Mendelsohn says, “Breastfed babies do not require solid foods during the first year of life and should not be given any during at least the first six months of life. Until then much of the solid foods he eats passes through his body undigested.”

The younger the baby, the more likely it is that any foods other than human milk will cause food allergies. While solely breastfed, the baby is protected by components in mother's milk that prevent foreign proteins from entering the baby's system and causing an allergic reaction. Between 6 months and 12 months of age, the baby begins producing enough antibodies to prevent such allergic reactions. This benefit is especially important for a baby whose family has a history of allergies. Some doctors may recommend delaying solids for the first year if there is a family history of allergies.

Because a young baby's digestive system is immature, he may not be able to digest other foods as well, perhaps making spitting up, constipation, and diarrhea more common. Waiting until the baby is older lessens the probability that these unpleasant reactions will occur. Recent studies have shown that hydrochloric acid - used to digest most protein - doesn't even appear in the stomach until the end of the seventh month and doesn't reach a peak until the eighteenth month. In addition, ptyalin, the digestive juice for carbohydrates, doesn't appear until the end of the baby's first year.

Although babies continue to receive many immunities from breast milk for as long as they nurse, the greatest immunity occurs while a baby is exclusively breastfed. Breast milk contains 37 known immune mechanisms, and probably many more that are still unknown. However, as soon as the baby is exposed to solid foods or anything other than breast milk - even one bottle of sugar water - 17 of these immune mechanisms are destroyed (by the E. coli bacteria that are introduced) and can never be restored. One study has shown that babies who were exclusively breastfed for 4+ months had 40% fewer ear infections than breastfed babies whose diets were supplemented with other foods.

Solids displace breast milk in the baby's diet. The more solid food a baby consumes the less breast milk he consumes, solids do not add to baby's total intake. Early introduction of solids puts the baby at risk for premature weaning. An inferior food has been substituted for a superior one, and partial weaning has begun.

Breastfed babies are rarely obese, but when they are it is most often related to the early addition of solid foods. This may be because a younger baby is less able to communicate when he has had enough, perhaps resulting in overfeeding.

Breastfeeding provides some degree of birth control. It is most effective, however, when the baby is exclusively breastfeeding - no formula or water supplements and no solid foods. The addition of these cuts down on the amount of time the baby spends at the breast, therefore reducing the amount of stimulation necessary to inhibit ovulation in the mother.

A young baby still possesses the tongue-thrust reflex, which causes the food to be pushed out of the mouth rather than swallowed. This coupled with the fact that most young babies are unable to sit up alone results in feeding that is messier and more difficult. There is also a higher incidence of choking because the art of swallowing is still being mastered. Once the tongue-thrust reflex has faded (between 6-12 months) baby can take a more active part in feeding time.

There is a reduction of respiratory illness. The probability of respiratory illness occurring at any time during childhood is significantly reduced if the child is fed exclusively breastmilk for at least 15 weeks and no solid foods are introduced during this time.

A baby who is ready for solids won't spit them back out, and their poop doesn't come out looking like what went in. And they will have some teeth. The coming in of the first teeth signals the ability to digest food; the eyeteeth and stomach teeth indicate that the baby now has gastric juices to handle foods, but some find their babies demand food some time before that.

The ease of feeding is a factor. Babies who start solids late can feed themselves. Why Delay Solids?

I can't figure out why people want to fuss over feeding their baby solids before she/he is ready. Babies only nurse for a short while even if they nurse for years instead of months, why not just follow their lead?

Breastmilk is easy and superior nutrition. Unlike the guessing game with solids, all the nutrients are right there in the perfect amount. Unlike solids, breastmilk offers your baby important immunities just when the immunities you passed on in utero are beginning to wear off. Breastmilk has irreplaceable ingredients for brain growth, which is at it's greatest during this age. Unlike solids, milk cleans up easy. Breastmilk poop smells a lot better than solid food poop, and is easier to clean up, and babies can poop it out much easier. Breastmilk is *free*, and prepackaged baby foods are not only expensive, but filled with preservatives and fillers. I could go on for hours about the advantages of delaying solids, but I can't think of one advantage to starting them early.

My first child was 12 months old before he started eating solid food, and then it was still just for tastes, not a meal. My daughter was 10 months old, and my third child has started 'tasting' solid food at 10 months old too. I do not spend my time grinding my own baby food nor do I buy jars of baby food. My babies taste what we are eating. For example, my 10 month old likes to taste, mash and spit out strawberries. Solid food makes up to 0-5% of his total food intake. He doesn't have 'food' everyday or even every other day. And all of my children have been healthy children, not overweight, but plump and strong. All have weighed around 25# by 12 months of age.

I suggest that parents wait until their infants start showing the obvious cues of readiness that I mentioned before starting solids. How many adults have you seen that still nurse? My point is, they *all* eat solids eventually...I promise!

I feed my babies on my lap or they just standing holding onto our low table (our table is low to the ground, as we eat Japanese style. We sit on the floor at our table. And my children start eating at an older age so I do not feed them myself. I just give them the food, like a whole strawberry, or small bites on their own dish for them to feed themselves. Yes, it does get messy. They have a great time!

I give my children to start with one new food at a time (only that new food that day, no other new foods in the same day), in case of allergic reaction or any adverse reaction. I give avocados, strawberries, tofu bits, natural organic cereal O's, pieces of cooked potato, bananas, mashed cooked yams, sprouted wheat bread in pieces, peaches, star fruit, pears, apples, papaya, poi, brown rice, mashed potatoes, steamed carrots in small pieces, grated soy or rice cheeses, sliced bananas rolled in wheat germ (to make them less slippery), and the like.

Your baby will fare best if you prepare his food yourself. Avoid commercially prepared baby foods, not only because they are more expensive, but also because they are less nutritious after being processed to death.

Please be aware that many children (12 months of age and younger) have adverse reactions to honey, eggs, cows milk and nuts. Observe your child closely to be sure that there is no allergic physical or behavioral reaction, such as excessive crying or fussiness. Also many children choke on grapes (unless you cut them in half, hot dog round slices (slice then the long way- thinly), and popcorn. And always keep an eye on them as they eat. Learn infant CPR. It can save your child's life.

The size of a child’s appetite will vary from day to day and year to year for a variety of reasons. It can be affected by his level of activity, by his fondness for the food he is served, and by the intake he requires if he is in the midst of a spurt in growth. The child, whether he is in a baby or in his teens, will eat what he needs.

MYTHS CONCERNING THE ADDITION OF OTHER FOODS
"Babies who live in very warm climates need extra water, especially during summertime, to quench their thirst and avoid dehydration." Breastmilk is about 80% water. As long as a baby is allowed unlimited and unrestricted access to his mother's breast, he does not need additional water. Giving a baby water may cause him to feel full, thereby resulting in him demanding to nurse less often and thus getting less of the milk that he requires for proper nutrition and growth. Furthermore, some recent studies have indicated that the kidneys of babies, especially very young ones, are not mature enough to handle large amounts of water and giving water may actually result in health risks for the baby. Additionally the mother receives less stimulation when the baby is given water supplements which may have an adverse effect on her milk supply. "Adding solid food to a baby's diet will help him go longer between breastfeedings and perhaps sleep through the night."

There is absolutely no correlation between the presence of solids in a baby's diet - or the lack of it - and the baby beginning to sleep through the night. If adding solid food to a young baby's diet results in him going longer between feedings, it is probably because his digestive system is having to work overtime due to the strain placed on it by foods he is not physically mature enough to digest.

"Introducing solids ensures that a baby is not deprived of necessary iron in his diet."
Anemia is uncommon in the breastfed baby due to the following reasons: 1) a healthy, full-term infant has ample iron stores at birth to last him at least for the first twelve months of life, 2) although the amount of iron in breastmilk is small, it is readily absorbed at a rate of 49% compared to 4% of the iron in formula. This is due to the high levels of lactose and vitamin C in human milk, which aid in the absorption of iron, and 3) breastfed babies do not lose iron through their bowels as do formula-fed infants, whose intestines develop fissures from damage caused by cow's milk.

Inspiration

2008-03-27T19:11:00.006-04:00

I had followed this gal's blog that I stumbled across. Her son had a birth defect that took his life at 9 weeks and 4 days. He was born a day after Zyler on January 7. Doctors did not expect him to survive much longer after birth. These videos tell his story. Thanks be to God for the gifts of joy he shared with his parents and big sister in the time they had with him. His mother's faith and courage are awe inspiring to me. I just couldn't not share Joshua's story. Be sure to watch to the end if you're able. They've shared some beautiful stats and stories in text about him.

Bisphenol A-free Plastics

2008-03-15T18:38:00.003-04:00

Another mom has done the research already. Check out her great article and link to a handout here. Basically, we should try to avoid eating from all plastics numbered 3, 6, & 7. Check your baby bottles and sippy cups!

Zyler is 7 Weeks Old!

2008-02-28T11:57:00.003-05:00

He had his checkup on Monday and weighs 11 lb 12 oz with his clothes on. :) So, yet again, all is well with the little guy. We will probably start selective vaccinations around 12 weeks.

Breastfeeding is going somewhat better, and I am still pumping and storing milk. I started back to work Wednesday on a mostly MWF schedule. I'm glad I'm going back part time for now, as I still am not getting much sleep! I found a great room in the building with a lock where I can express milk, probably 3 times a day once I am there a full day. Pumping is hard work! So many details and things to coordinate. Breastmilk feeding--whether from the breast or pumped for a bottle--provides such a sense of accomplishment, though.

Why Continue Breastfeeding?

2008-02-24T13:52:00.002-05:00

This article is a great motivator to keep it up! Send it to a pregnant friend who may have had trouble breastfeeding a previous child and is contemplating not even trying again. The experience truly can be so different the next time around. When I'm spending hours upon hours feeding Zyler, even in the "wee" hours of the night, anticipating sharp pains going through my nipple, the article's messages surely helps keep me going!

Today has gone much better on the "bad" side, by the way. It's the small successes that also keep me going!

6 Week Postpartum Checkup, etc.

2008-02-21T20:25:00.004-05:00

We went to my 6-week checkup today. All is well. Just a bit of scar tissue, but my suture is long gone and my bleeding is almost finished. We gave Ann a few pictures and she told us her "horror" story of her first labor--56 hours! YIKES! She gave me hope, though, for any future babies. Her second labor--only 2 hours!

She gave me big kudos for my hard work during my labor. =) We discussed the normal topics--contraception, PPD (postpartum depression), going back to work, being new parents. I'm due to go back in June for my annual checkup unless I want to see her regarding a contraception consult.

Aaahhhh going back to work. I'm supposed to go back next Wednesday part time. I will continue FMLA leave for a few weeks. Our babies are tiny for such a short time! I want to be home as much as possible... But I need to keep my job. We still have not confirmed day care arrangements, though. We are still interviewing prospects so hopefully we will have it figured out soon enough.

Zyler's 6-week checkup is Monday, even though he will be 7 weeks old. Crazy! They aren't kidding when they say how quickly time flies... He ate well last night before I went to bed and slept a 5-hour stretch for me, yay! So he was only up at 3 AM and 6 AM! We are approaching normalcy! I know once you have it figured out, their sleep cycle goes and turns upside down, but I am excited to have gotten 7 hours of sleep last night. It has been pretty rough on me--4 hours 1 night, 5 the next... I have had a hard time turning off my brain after 4 AM but last night I managed to do it. Whew! Thank goodness for the self hypnosis skills I learned with HypnoBirthing.

Oh, and regarding my breastfeeding post. It has definitely gotten easier but it is not where I'd like it to be. I still have a good bit of pain on the right side, especially early on in a feeding. My cracks and sores are healed, so I can't quite figure out what it could be besides it being difficult for Zy to latch when my breast is still very full. I could express before putting him on... but that means more work and more time... so I am just enduring the pain. :) It hurts on the left, too, in the beginning of the feed as he is using his tongue incorrectly to avoid "drowning" with my fast letdown. I use a nipple shield often times to force him to get it right, and then remove it. He usually fixes himself after I force the shield on him. I have been through quite the trouble with him from day 1, so after all this I am not about to give up yet if I can stick it out... Pumping can cause sore nipples, too... but I'm hoping for me that it will give them some relief once I am back at work and he is using bottles more often.

Zyler is Almost 5 Weeks Old

2008-02-03T16:17:00.002-05:00

It is hard to believe he is 4 weeks old already! I have a few minutes to type a quick update. Zyler is doing great and gaining weight beautifully. He's very alert and strong and will start officially "cooing" back to us very soon I believe. He's even started to do the little push ups once in a while during tummy time.

However, we have had quite a time with breastfeeding. It seems 1 issue gets resolved and a new problem arises. I'm going to stick it out a few more weeks though, hopefully, assuming he continues to get enough nutritionally. I definitely do not have a supply problem! I will try to post some details later if time allows. :o)

Polls Recap

2008-02-03T16:05:00.000-05:00

On our online game at ExpectNet, here's who came closest to Zyler's correct birth stats:

correct birth date: Ruth W. (and closest time!), Julia H., Sara L., & Amy R.
closest weight: Jen G.
correct length: several loved ones!

On the poll on this blog, most of you thought Zyler would be born "late" or after the due date, but he was born just about on time, 2 days early. And most of you thought he was a boy - of course you are correct! :o)

Zyler's Birth Story

2008-01-07T15:30:00.001-05:00

Many thanks to my doula, Kelly Kravitz, who provided me a birth log summary of events so I could write an accurate and detailed birth story!

Wednesday, January 2

Have 39 week checkup (due date January 8)... 1 cm dilated and 70% effaced. The nurse-midwife, Melody, thinks my mucous plug is gone already.

Thursday, January 3

2100
Mucous plug definitely starts coming out and bloody show begins. I start having irregular lower back cramping. Nothing too uncomfortable. Able to sleep most of the night.

Friday, January 4

0400
Wake up early and still see mucous plug in big globs. Worry that water has broken. Since I'm GBS+ (Group Beta Strep) I don't want to alert the midwives too "early" as I want to avoid the IV antibiotics in excess (I am OK with 1 bag but am not thrilled about getting it every 4 hours during labor).

0700
Call my doula and let her know the lower back cramping returned and that I am still wondering if my water has broken. It is hard to tell with the mucous. I decide to go on into work and continue normal activity. Once I sit at the desk at work the surges (HypnoBirthing "speak" for "contractions") stop for most of the day. I am pretty sure I was in prodomal (very early) labor.

Saturday, January 5

0300
Email my doula to let her know I can not sleep any longer! Surges return about 2-3 minutes apart but are not intense enough to warrant going in. I called Ann Schaeffer, the midwife on call to let her know. She confirmed that first labors can really drag on in the early stages.

0830
Talk with doula. Having consistent (2-10 minutes apart) surges in lower back with lots of bowel area pressure. They last 30-45 seconds.

1030
Get in the tub to relax. Talk with a close friend and then my doula. The warm water really helps relax my back and tolerate the surges easier. They get a bit more intense as sometimes I can not speak through them if I was standing. My in-laws are at the house because my father-in-law is helping Jason in his shop. Jason & I had agreed not to alert family when I go into labor and want to wait until the last moment or until after the baby is born to make any calls. So it is challenging to say the least to hide the fact that I am in early labor! I even help make salads for lunch as my mother-in-law brought lasagna for us to share. My father-in-law said after Zyler was born that he could tell I wasn't feeling too great that day. :)

1700
My in-laws leave and my doula arrives to assist me through labor! My surges are every 10-13 minutes, lasting 30-50 seconds. I have continued increase in bowel pressure and lower back aches with each surge. My doula tries the counter pressure near my tail bone and it helps ease the discomfort me a great deal. I have tried to drink plenty of water today, and this evening I have some Red Raspberry Leaf tea. At this point I am still able to talk through each surge.

I call the midwife at some point today and she suggests blue or black cohash if I think my labor need an extra "boost." I tell her also about the bowel pressure and confirm with her that milk of magnesia is OK to take. I try it but nothing productive or relief comes. I also call a good friend and discussed the blue or black cohash and my labor symptoms. She thinks the same as my midwife, that I am still in very early (prodomal?) labor. My doula calls Martin's grocery since it's Satuday night to see if they might carry the cohash herb, but the worker can't locate it. We decide to stay home and see how labor progresses on its own.

My doula really wants me to try to rest, so we go upstairs to my bed. I lay on my left side and she uses the counter pressure and hot rice packs. These coping methods really help, and I don't know how I would have gotten through labor without her!! I also play my HypnoBirthing scripts on the CD to help me focus and remain in a good, centered state of mind.

1930
Surges now coming more consistently and definitely stronger. Lasting more than 1 minute.

2015
Surges 1.5 minutes long and 5 minutes apart!

2100
Surges are 1.5-2 minutes long and 5-7 minutes apart.

2130
Jason is checking on me every 20-30 minutes. I start shaking a little with each surge.

2200
Surges are definitely stronger; 1.5 minutes long, 5-8 minutes apart. I'm finally starting to believe that I'm in active labor! I am a little concerned though that labor was slowing some? My doula suggests switching sides so I go to lie on my right side. My shaking and teeth chattering also intensify. This is hard work!

2230
Surges 2-3 minutes apart! Jason goes to rest in the guest room. Just a little bit later, I confirm that my water breaks! Surges are really intense now. Poor Jason only got to rest 15 minutes before we got him up to leave for Rockingham Memorial Hosp. around 2250.

2330
We get the car packed and finally arrive at RMH. I call my midwife on the way to tell her that contractions are more intense. She doesn't talk to me long and calls me between surges, so I think she still thinks I was still in "false" labor. Is she in for a surprise! I tell Jason I would be pretty upset if we get there and I am only dilated to 2 cm!

Ann (midwife) is ready to put me in a triage room but realizes we needed a bigger labor room for me when she sees me breathing through a surge as I get out of the wheelchair! They get a 20 minute EFM. Zyler's heartrate is normal, about 137 bpm. Surges are good and strong. Ann checks me and says I have done great work--I am in transition at 8.5 cm!! Maybe we'll have this baby before daybreak!?!

Sunday, January 6, 2008

0015
I get right into the jacuzzi after Ann offers it. The jets really comfort me through surges and Jason turns on the HypnoBirthing scripts.

0110
Jason lies down to try to get some rest again. The nurse gets another EFM reading. Zyler is doing great. Kelly continues to use counter pressure on my lower back which helps me cope.

0300
I get a new RN, Cindy, who had both of her children naturally. She is very supportive throughout the remainder of my labor.

0500
Still no baby!! Cindy wants to check my cervix for progress. Jason rouses and comes to me. Cindy can feel that the left side of it is swollen and in the way. She actually uses the phrase "possible c-section." I am so exhausted by this point that I just want to cry! I can't believe she would even mention that phrase. Luckily it is never mentioned again!

0530
My labor support team continues to suggest I change positions, so I try the birthing stool for a while. Jason supports me from behind, sitting on the bed. The surges feel a little less intense. I sense that nothing very productive can come of them at this intensity level.

0600
Ann returns. She had gone for a nap around 0100. She expresses her disappointment for having slept so long, because she was confident she would have been woken up much earlier when I was ready to birth my baby! She checks my cervix and feels it is still off to the side. She suggests I get in the hands and knees position since Zyler is not quite turned all the way anterior yet. If this doesn't work I should consider Pitocin to help the surges become more effective. (I was definitely committed to a fully natural delivery so this is not what I wanted to hear!)

0700
I finally am exhausted with the hands and knees position. The baby did turn another 10%, but is still partly posterior. I decide to start the Pit with Fentanyl (narcotic) to help me relax and rest some. (I emphatically decline the offer of an epidural as I do not want my mobility compromised and want a natural labor/delivery as much as possible. Turns out I stayed in the bed the rest of the time anyway.) I start crying a little out of frustration and exhaustion. Jason & I am very committed to my having a totally natural birth, and I am so disappointed that surges have slowed down and that the Pit would be necessary. I understand it to be a very good reason for this intervention though. My uterus and I am so tired!! I ask Jason if he is angry, and he says if I need these interventions then I should take them!

0730
The Pit starts at the lowest dose, 2 ml. Every 20 minutes it raises 2 ml. I receive the Fentanyl which should metabolize in about 1 hour. I am finally able to rest!! Only a few of the surges woke me...

0800
Pit is up to 6 ml. Surges are definitely stronger and faster. I'm feeling a little rejuvenated!

0845
I start pushing more, and Zyler is moving down! Ann checks me, and he's at a +2 station and I'm fully dialted! Woohoo!!! I start bearing down a lot more and soon the room floods with hospital staff to prepare for the birth. By this point also I have totally lost all modesty and the hospital gown is gone! My doula is great at telling me to "breathe my baby down" and this allows me to use very low pitches in my voice when bearing down and really push in the right place. (Even though HypnoBirthing tried to teach me not to "push.")

Ann and all the support staff in the room are wonderful at encouraging me through the pushing and not prompting me when to push. They allow my instincts to tell me when to push. I get to the point of exhaustion where I don't believe I can do it! I even doze once in between surges! They also bring the mirror out to encourage me, too, when Zyler's head becomes visible! That is pretty amazing for me to see. I seriously do not understand why it is taking soooo long though to get him out!!

1005
Throughout the night I had continued sipping water, and Kelly & Cindy continued reminding me to urinate, but I couldn't go! Ann finally looks up and sees an extra bulge on my belly--my bladder was extremely full! I get up and try going 1 more time, but to no avail. So I get back in bed and Ann uses a straight catheter and got 1 LITER of urine!! I think she realized my bladder was prohibiting him to move down any further.

Then just 15 minutes later....

1021
Zyler is born! Finally, at 39 weeks 5 days gestation. I finally feel his head come and was preparing for the next surge to push the rest of his body when I finally realize Ann telling me to take my baby! She had pulled the rest of him out for me. Fine by me! :) I grab him and pull him to my chest and my head collapses against the pillows in exhaustion. Zyler has a 6 cm "conehead," and Ann tells me his hand came out beside his face! If it hadn't been for that I would have had plenty of room for him. However, I ended up with a 2nd degree tear on my perineum that requires stitches. Not too bad...

At Ann's suggestion, I push gently 1 more time to expel the placenta which is just near the vaginal opening. I am fascinated by it as she inspects it, showing me the sac and what had fed my baby for the past 9 months.

An RN brings me some Sprite, graham crackers, and Ibuprofen. The Sprite tastes just heavenly! Zyler has Apgar scores of 8 and 9 out of 10) and is in perfect health. With my exhaustion and the newness of motherhood, it takes me several days to get used to the idea that I'm a mom!

Monday, January 7, 2008

We are discharged and go home!

Announcing the Birth of our Baby...

2008-01-06T10:21:00.000-05:00

BOY! Zyler Tristan Kite was welcomed on the Epiphany of our Lord, January 6, 2008 at 1021. He weighed 7 lb 14.8 oz and was 21 inches long. A birth story shall follow, so stay tuned! Paige & Zyler are both healthy and well. We thank everyone for the congratulatory wishes and many prayers!

Baby Game... Any Last Minute Guesses?

2008-01-03T10:43:00.000-05:00

Visit http://expectnet.com/games/kitefamily to place your vote on the birth date, gender, and more. Or visit expectnet.com and enter "kitefamily" as the game name.

39w 1d - Appointment

2008-01-02T19:24:00.000-05:00

This is the first appointment when the nurse-midwifery practice will offer a cervical check, unless I had requested anything sooner. It really doesn't tell a lot of information for me or for the MW, such as when I'm going to start labor or anything to that extent. I decided to accept the exam today, though, to see where things stand. No need for a lot of excitement... but here are the stats:

Weight up 2.5 lb from last week (Too many peanut butter balls, haha! Though I do think the baby may have had a growth spurt, because I do feel noticeably bigger.)
Protein check fine
BP around 126/74 (I forget exactly, oops)
FHR 130 BPM
Pason still head down and center, feet still to the upper right. The MW let J try to feel for the head and shoulder, but he couldn't really tell what he felt.
And for the cervical check... About 1 cm dilated, 70% effaced, approximately -1 station. So, no, I haven't officially "dropped" yet. =)

Photo: "Open"

2008-01-02T10:10:00.000-05:00

I love this description of this photo of a Hypnobirthing mom on the Navelgazing Midwife blog. =)

39w 0d - "Big" Babies or "Small" Pelvises

2008-01-01T12:29:00.000-05:00

As we near the impending "guess" date, and baby continues to grow (about an ounce per day), I find this video very inspiring. It pretty strongly knocks the "CPD" (cephalo-pelvic disproportion) diagnosis in my eyes. Two women close to me had cesareans due to this very reason, so continued research and education in this area holds a particularly special place for me. Our pelvises are made to stretch, and babies' heads made to mold.

Some abbreviations you may need prior to viewing:
HBAC = home birth after cesarean
VBAC = vaginal birth after cesarean
UBAC = unassisted birth after cesarean

I hope you enjoy.

39w 0d - "Pason" This Week

2008-01-01T12:25:00.000-05:00

Hooray! You're in your fortieth week of pregnancy and your baby is now due. Don't worry if you're still waiting as you due date passes. It's not unusual to still be waiting for your baby to be born since a normal pregnancy may last for up to another two weeks.

An average size baby now weighs about 7.5 lbs (3400g) and measures about 21.5 inches (50cm) long. Crown to rump measurement is about 14.8 to 15.2 inches (37 to 38cm). As you will see when your baby is born, these are averages only and vary from baby to baby. Your baby may weigh and measure more or less than this.
The presenting part is down in the lower portion of your uterus and pressing through your softened and partially opened cervix.
You may be surprised by the initial appearance of your baby when it is first born. Her head may be slightly misshapen from passing through the birth canal, though this usually does not last more than a day or two. Her coloring may initially appear bluish, purplish, or pale yellow and she may be covered with vernix, blood, lanugo and some meconium if she passes her waste in utero. Her genitals may also be swollen due to high hormone levels that were passed from you during your pregnancy, and she may have some skin discolorations or spots that will probably fade quite quickly.

Oh Blessed Motherhood

Please "Follow" Me at Kite Family

Ahlia's Birth Story

Please Consider Donating Toward My "March for Babies" on May 1... or Join Our Family Team!

Proud Momma!!

Abdominal Binder

Using a pregnancy belt for transverse lie

Hypnobirthing Review

More "Month 9" Ups & Downs

A Wake Up Story | Seventh Generation

Ups & Downs

Birth Matters Virginia: The Estimated Due Date - Are you "Overdue"?

Maternity Proofs Posted

IUD and Birth Control

Homebirth Coloring Book

Maternity Photos Preview

Podcast - Homebirth 101: The Home Court Advantage

Heartburn = Baby Has Lots of Hair?

A Plan and Mini Update

Some Bad News...

Baby "Nudges"

Pregnancy & Lactation Tea

Study - Homebirth is Safe & Regulations Governing the Practice of Licensed Midwives in VA

First Midwife Appointment

Baby Movements

Home Birth Plan

Headaches

Priming for a New Role - Pregnancy & "Baby Brain"

Announcement

Reducing Infant Mortality

An OB Collaborating with Midwives

Weaning... Another Milestone

This is Why I'm Walking on May 2

Sponsor Me at March for Babies

Thinking of Topics, & Books

Zyler is a Half-Year Old Today

Sleep 2

Sleep?

Zyler is 4 Months Old!

Beautiful "Angel Mommy" Video

He did it! and 12-Week Checkup

Why Delay Solid Food?

Inspiration

Bisphenol A-free Plastics

Zyler is 7 Weeks Old!

Why Continue Breastfeeding?

6 Week Postpartum Checkup, etc.

Zyler is Almost 5 Weeks Old

Polls Recap

Zyler's Birth Story

Announcing the Birth of our Baby...

Baby Game... Any Last Minute Guesses?

39w 1d - Appointment

Photo: "Open"

39w 0d - "Big" Babies or "Small" Pelvises

39w 0d - "Pason" This Week

The Business of Being Born Review

38w 6d - Pampering

Kiss da belly :)

38 Week Belly Bump

The Business of Being Born Trailer

38w 1d - Appointment

38w 0d - "Pason" This Week

37w 2d - "Last" Last HypnoBirthing® Class

37w 1d - Doula Visit

37w 0d - "Pason" This Week

36w 2d – Ups & Downs

36w 0d - "Pason" This Week

34 Week Belly & Shower

35w 2d - Weight Gain To Date

35w 0d - "Pason" This Week

Gender Poll Closed

34w 6d - Midwife Appointment & Birth Center Consideration

34w 0d - "Pason" This Week

The Business of Being Born

33w 0d - "Pason" This Week

32w - The Pregnancy Etiquette Guide

32w 0d - "Pason" This Week

Website of Interest - Fetal Positioning

31w 1d - Midwife Appointment & Massage