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Following Ms Dynamo's wonderful news of her pregnancy and all the rest of us who are coming out of the woodwork ...a new, morale-boosting thread for those of us in our 40s currently going through pregnancy.
Come on, sign up: we are 40+ and FABULOUSLY PREGNANT!!!
Congratulations, Jeanjeannie! You must be getting very excited! I'm running around after a toddler, too, 30 weeks pregnant and also have a DS1 who is 5 ... oh, and I'm 41! I'm sure all the running around keeps us fabulous! Do you have any similar-aged mothers around you? I don't really, so I feel I have a bit of a flag to fly and keep my end up, so to speak .
Also 41 with a 27 month son and 37 weeks pregnant. Was feeling rather fabulous all day as was energetic and calm despite 2.30am start. Bit frazzled now, but am sure to wake up fresh and fabulous and forty something again tomorrow!
40 is clearly the new 20! TakenoPrisoners..I've got one mum who I'm very close to who has just turned 40 (newbie!) and I've met quite a few at baby groups...but most seem to be early 30s. But that's ok....in a good light (with some slap on) and having actually brushed my hair for once I can look reasonably around their age
I'm sure i'd still feel as knackered if I were 10 years younger. But I'd not met my lovely younger man then - so I wouldn't be doing all of this baby lark - which I'd honestly given up on !! dd1 happened just over a year after we met and dc2...well, that was a shock - first time without being 'careful'....well, it was a great way to celebrate my 42nd b'day!!
Hello all and congratulations all round! Lovely to have a fabulous 40 thread thanks very much Takenopriz! Congrats wahwah jeanjeanie and Minnie.
I'm 43, one ds 7 and one bump aged 19 weeks and 4 days.
Very amazed to conceive, have only been pg 3 times, this time, ds and one mc. It is unbelievable that this pg seems to be going so well. I feel great, tired but absolutely fine. Using it as an excuse to eat too much though.
I would have had number 2 earlier if I could but I like to think that no other baby would have been whoever this baby is, if you see what I mean. Don't know if it's a girl or a boy. Had a cvs but asked not to be told.
Can't agree on boys names at all! He wants the most bizarre and obscure names imaginable!
Like you - we don't know if it's a boy or girl either...and we also asked that they not tell us with the CVS results. We'd had so much stress over that.....as I'd been given a 1 in 2 chance of trisomy 13 and Edwards....only to find it was all clear...phew!
Bump is 34 weeks today and provisionally booked for c-section for 5 weeks tomorrow..
We've just come to an agreement over names...if it's a boy - we'll have the one we would have chosen last time! OOo you should share some of the bizarre and obscure names...I like a laugh. I've been cruising the Baby Names threads (which i always said I wouldn't do) and some of the ideas are a hoot. I reckon if you want an unusual name these days then go for Paul...or Michael...or maybe Elaine!!
Congratulations Ipaanemagirl and thanks very much, Fortyplus!
I just thought it would be nice to have a thread specifically for us, as I think 40 is something of a milestone in many ways. And look how many of us there are and how we are thriving on our pregnancies! I know I am so much fitter and healthier now than I was 10 years ago - and I think I look a bit better than then, too! So, I proudly stick my bump out for all to see & find inspiration in other 40+ pregnant women.
We adopted our DS1, who is now 5, when he was a 9 month old baby; then had IVF for DS2, and this pregnancy is also the result of IVF, so I really feel I've earned the right to be 40+ and proud! It's great to read about all of you, too, feeling similarly.
I'm really pleased about this thread, am rushing out now but am going to come back later and read the new posts!
Thanks for your blessing fortyplus!
I'm suddenly getting kicked by this bump-dweller, last week end I didn't even think I'd felt a thing and now I'm getting disco dancing it's so funny! I still can't believe this is really happening!
Hi Nancy. How long have you been TTC? I don't have any tips myself on the natural route, as mine were IVF, but I'm someone will come along with tips and encouragement. The only thing I would say is not to leave it too long before doing any preliminary investigations if you don't conceive as quickly as you'd like, as getting any medical help at all can be quite time-consuming. Good luck with it - wish you all the best!
I've only been TTC a few months. I've already decided that I woudn't do IVF though so it's natural or not at all for me. Any other mums to be in this thread conceive naturally?
Jeanjeannie - hope your heartburn isn't giving you too much bother - I sympathise - my bump is now getting in the way of my digestion and making me very sick these days.
Wahwah - your son is the same age as my DS2 - it's hard work, isn't it? I'm frantically trying to potty train atm as I know that once the baby arrives in Jul, I won't have a chance ...
Minnie - good luck with your 12 week scan next week - let us know how it goes.
Ipanemagirl - will you be having a 20 week scan for your disco-dancer? Glad you're feeling great and in good health - like so many of us, it's fabulous news!
Right, everyone, I'm off to wrangle my 2 year old now - catch up later, TNPx
Hi Takenoprisoners! Great thread. I'm 44 and 5 weeks and 5 days pregnant. In answer to Nancy66, I did conceive naturally. When I turned 41 I went privately to a clinic and had various tests done to check that my fertility was OK, and also to see that my fallopian tubes and ovaries were fine. I met my partner a year ago. I didn't do anything beforehand other than be acutely aware of my ovulation times. Then we had sex 3 or 4 times around those days and hoped for the best. I didn't do anything else in preparation.
hello hello.. nice idea for a thread. Am just 11 weeks with Dc2 have cvs in 10 days and have a wonderful dd 2 yr. terrible m sickness with this one and certainly more tired. Oh and I hit the big 40 2 mths ago !! so I am just the + bit hope thats ok !
Hi Rosa - Congratulations on your pregnancy! If you're 40 and the plus, you're fabulous! Do you find anything helps at all with the morning sickness? I munched my way through loads of toast and marmite ...
Yes Takeno, I've got 20 week scan at 22 weeks for my disco dancer!
Big welcome and congrats to you Rosa!
Hello Nancy66, I conceived my ds (7) after maybe three years of trying naturally and then lost a pg 3 years ago. this pg I conceived after about 6 months taking Clomid to prompt me to ovulate.
I would recommend having your fertility looked at sooner rather than later only in as much as there's more time to consider options if there are any obstacles. It makes it less of a mystery and I wish we'd gone before ds to have 'our' fertility looked at. It took a long time to be seen on the NHS after my last pg.
I've also heard a lot of good things about acupuncture for fertilityMy frien, 43, had been trying for her 2nd without success and they could not find anything 'wrong' in her fertility other than her age. In the end she went to an acupuncturist and she believes that really helped her conceive although she allows that she can't prove that! Her 2nd girl was born 6 months ago.
If you in or near London because I also know a fabulous massage therapist who specialises in natal and prenatal massage - I'm convinced she helped me conceive my ds! I could easily CAT you here details if you're in or near London or the SE. She's also great if you're late to deliver and want some natural induction.
Sorry for going on! Hello all, I'm getting kicked loads it's really making me laugh.
Muchoes respectos Johnworf! And here was I thinking my 7 year gap was yawning! My sis had a 10 year gap and her two big ones adore and are very close to her youngest dd. I think it can work out brilliantly.
The age gap for me will be just over 5 years, not what I planned, but just the way things worked out, conceiving in your 40s can take a little while....
My 12 week scan is next Monday, I will of course let you all know how it goes.
I friend of mine conceived naturally at 42 but she was taking all sorts of supplments, something called DHEA I think
Does anyone else feel vaguely embarrassed about being pregnant in your 40s?
I am convinced that some of the 20 something Mums at the school gates think that no one has s@x over 40!!!
I've read about DHEA - it's a male growth hormone. It is meant to be great for improving egg quality in older women. However it's not legal in this country - although you can buy it online. Very encouraging to hear about all you 40+ mums to be. I have had all my hormone levels checked and all was fine and also had a scan to check ovaries and womb and, again, all fine. My OH is 10 years younger so hopefully his young sperm will make up for my hard boiled eggs !
minniethemoocher I don't feel at all embarrassed being pregnant and in my forties. I let my older kids do that for me
Seriously, they are fascinated in a 'try and not look too interested' way. I think what you said about anyone over 40 - let alone your own MOTHER - having sex is just yuck!
My consultant asked me if I was a grandmother yet as my oldest is 22....not a bloomin chance I told her
I don't really think of the age gap that much as my kids are virtually grown up now. However we do have my husbands DSS living with us full time who is 8 yo. I think he bridges the gap nicely.
Good luck for your scan on Monday minniethemoocher
*nancy66 I assume from what you wrote that you're TTC? Good luck if you are and take heart that us old dogs have LOTS of life left in us!
Minniem, all the best for your scan on Monday. And yes I DO feel a little embarrassed at being pg in my 40s, although it is fairly common in my part of the world! But I'm getting used to it. I would have another baby years ago if I could have but beggars can't be choosers, I'll take what I can get.
Good luck Nancy66 and great that you've had the all clear.
My bump is starting to show enough for people to guess at the school gates. A lovely mother looked at my tummy for ages today and then up at my face, back to tummy and I said Yes! to put her out of her misery. Very funny.
Oh dear no sex over 40 well we have all been naughty then!!!! Taken prisoner in rely to morning sickness I found no remedy . I could not even think about any more ginger.I tried small and frequent , dry and flat coke I read every thread and more on it. I found that whilst eating specy foods helped but and hour later I regretted it. Am moving out of it now but I really want strong flavours or cucumber ..Had none of this 1st time round. Good luck to those TTC.
Ipanemagirl - I am looking forward to having a bump, no sign of one at 12 weeks yet, not even a bulge.
I can just picture people's faces when I do start to show, very funny!
I think that we probably all need a good sense of human to be pregnant in our 40s.
Nancy - yes, I don't know where my friend got it, she had numerous failed IVF cycles, used the DHEA and bingo!
johnworf - had to laugh at the idea of MW asking if you were a pregnant granny! But I am sure that some 20 somethings think that life ends at 40, little do they know....
Ooo just got my computer back (dp ran off with it for the day....*trauma!) and there are even more of us 40 somethings....we're out there and breeding! Saw consultant today and definately booked for C-section on 30th May ...soo excited.
Nancy66....yes I concieved naturally - no tips, except my partner is also younger(7 years) and he reckons it's younger sperm that crack older eggs! Have to say I was undergoing tests for menopause.....so we'd thrown caution to the wind and were just out to enjoy ourselves....maybe that's the secret?!
I've yet to encounter any school gate younger-mums-mafia as dd is too young. But where I live it's more likely to be disappoving glances because you're not sat in a huge 4-wheel drive, looking like Mrs Pontipine driving her 8 kids around - or that you're not carrying the latest designer handbag!
Hats off to you johnworf...a 17 year gap.....ha ha ha that really is taking the notion of embarrasing your kids to fabulous new heights! Well done you...hope it's all going well.
I am suffering dreadful morning (noon and night) sickness, I have lost half a stone so far and there is no sign of it improving, in fact the less I eat the less I want to eat...tried all the ginger type things, accupressure wrist bands, lemonade, crisps....
It is so much worse this time than I had with DD.
I was hoping that it would magically disappear at 12 weeks...
Thanks for the good luck wishes for Monday, I cant wait for my scan and will let you know how it goes!
hi minnie i'm 41 with first and lost a stone in about 3 weeks with my sickness (was never actually sick though) i'm now 20 weeks and still half a stone less than i was but it has eased alot i got homeopathic tablets that i'm sure helped but was then told i shouldnt take anything homeopathic as they havent been through proper trials. hi to all the other fab forty plus moms i've had no negative comments yet! well apart from the now ex boyfriend !! so i'll be a single mom at 42 !
sorry to hear you've been sick Minnie hope you feel better soon!
Welcome and congrats Lou222!
Minnie having a bump for me is such a relief, for weeks I reallly have just been looking like I hit the cake shop in a really determined way.
Also the kicking is such a relief. I've had an almighty time trying to believe that this pg was going to succeed so to be booted regularly from this fierce little passenger is just fabulous!!
jeanjeannie interesting to hear you're also booked in for a C Section (I'm booked in for one sometime at the end of August cos of my b/p and gestational diabetes).
I'm having recurring nightmares about it! It'll be my first one.....what are your thoughts on it?
I've seen the op done and TBH it fills me with dread
Websites regarding CS aren't much help as they always end with something along the lines of 'major operation, small percentage of death'. GULP!
*hides behind a cushion*
If any of you ladies have already experienced one, care to share your thoughts? Always gratefully received.
I am likely to be a c-section too, because I had a very bad third degree tear last time, and I don't want to risk this baby making an entrance via my bottom and causing more damage and possible fecal incontinence.
Hi im a lurker but this wonderful thread has prompted me to 'come out'. you are all so inspiring! can i ask how many of you conceived naturally? im forty and would love just one more.....
Come on over and huddle round johnworf and MinnieM....i shall tell you all about c-sections Don't worry, it's not all scary! Promise.
Mine was an emerg c-section....dd1 was 34 weeks and due to infection had to be induced and all was going well until her heart rate plummetted.
Had a spinal (no big deal) and the one thing I remember was there seemed to be a lot of people there....about 9 including dp looking hilarious in scrubs! It really is incredibly quick...I've been at the dentist longer and in more discomfort. Your dc arrives so quickly - within minutes of laying down....and then you're sooooo emotional and watching it and having a quick cuddle (dd had to go off to special care) that you just don't really recognise that they're getting on with stitching you up. yes, you feel a bit of tugging but not much. I also suddenly got a bad headache....told anaethestist and he gave me something and it was gone in seconds.
Worse points were after-care and lack of midwives understanding that you need help to move about. I sort of got left....and got dehydrated and without pain meds. I've since had a de-briefing about the shocking aftercare I got....and I'm assured it really shouldn't have been like that.
I won't lie - I found getting up for the first time utterly teeth-clenchingly painful. But it eased within hours and mobility was very quick to come back. Peeing is Ok once catheter is out (I was dreading that and it was fine) but having your first poo feels like you tummy will burst....hold a cushion or something against it. Having said that....I reckon it sounds worse if you've had stitches after a VB.
*My top tips*
Ask for help if you need it.
If you want to breastfeed - TELL them - or they'll often just bottle feed baby for you!
Keep on top of pain meds - don't be stoic.
Take extra pillows in....so nice to be more upright....and if you have a crescent shaped feeding pillow take that too - lovely against the scar...and for supporting baby.
Sorry for long post - if you've made it this far then well done!
jeanjeanie - thank you for the post, very useful tips! I remember having a laparoscopy done and coming home clutching a cushion to my tummy, it helped in the car, especially over the speed humps!
TBH there were mums in the hospital who had c-sections that were up and about walking better than me after DD was born, so I don't know why I am worrying really....just the though of being cut open....
I have to say ...I was up and about long before two of my NCT class who were having nightmares with their episiotomy stitches.
It's not being able to drive that annoyed me....but having said that....it made my DP much more helpful .
OOoo don't forget big knickers -not just big....HUGE!! By the time you've shoved in maternity pads (which take up room) you want to make sure that the scar is covered. El cheapo size 20+ from local market were just the ticket
Hi Fabulous Forties, including Johnworf, Lou222 and Sereneno. It's so good to read all the positive comments and support - really bucks me up. My bump is making me quite uncomfortable at the moment - wriggling and turning and kicking all the time. I think it alternates between frank breech and full-on transverse stretch, using up as much space as possible! How can I accommodate another 10 weeks of this, I wonder. I'm sure it wasn't this uncomfortable last time - and it's making me queasy, too ... oh well, I had a facial this morning in a bid to boost morale, but bump kept wriggling around under the blanket!
Hi, was thrilled to see this thread. I had my first at 40 and am now 32 weeks pregnant with number 2 at 45! I conceived with the help of a specialist acupuncturist, for this baby. So far I feel much better than I expected, though sometimes v. tired, but am working and looking after a 4 year old. Feel great about being pregnant at my age, but before pregnancy often felt like a frumpy older mum as I always seem to be the oldest.Also possibility of CS but under general anaesthetic as my platelets are very low and they won't let me have spinal or epidural or any other intervention. I think its the GA that scares me the most. Love to you all
Hello all you fabulous 40+ mums-to-be. Just wanted to say hi, as I had my 2nd a couple of months ago at 41.
Reading all your comments has made me slightly broody and wondering if I could fit another one in .
To those of you having a cs, I had an elective cs this time round and it was a million times better than the emergency one the first time. It was so controlled and lovely (well as lovely as major surgery can be!), I was sitting up breastfeeding in the recovery room, and up and about the next morning. It was so much easier than the first. I recovered really quickly and easily, no complications, bf established well and had excellent care from the hospital staff.
I wish you all wonderful pregnancies and will pop in and see how you are getting on from time to time
Went to visit a birth unit yesterday and met a midwife. All the talk about birth made me feel queasy and a bit panicky. Think I had been putting that part of it to the back of my mind. Like you, purplegiraffe, I'd actually prefer to have an elective cs.
Don't like the idea of the catheter though jeanjeannie, yuck.
Hi all you ladies (lots of us now it seems - yay!)
Just to go through some of the things that I've noted:-
a) I've already had an epidural with DD1 so I guessed that a spinal would be along those lines. Cathether wasn't a problem as they put it in when you're numb (if I remember rightly).
b) I've already had a 3rd degree tear on my last baby which is another reason I begged (yes I did) them for a CS on this one.
c) I take comfort in that the procedure itself won't be too bad but its the after bit I'm worried about. Can it possibly be any worse than a stitches up your bottom?? I doubt it.
d) I have one of those flabby bits that kinda hangs over on my tummy from previous babies and I'm worried it'll get infected underneath there if that is where they stitch me up.
e) What are these metal staples I hear they use to stitch you back up with nowadays?
f) Worried if I'll be able to breast feed with the scar. Already looked into a BF cushion to take to hospital with me.
g) Are those packs for CS any good. The ones you buy? They look like a bum bag but you can either put hot or cold packs inside them depending on what sort of comfort you are looking for. They rest over your scar and stop bumps as well.
h) Can you have pain relief while you're BF?
I) Worried that it's my 4th baby they'll just leave me to get on with it - like they did on my 3rd....when really I'll need help on this one.
Sorry this is such a long post and I've actually got a few more concerns. I know there isn't much I can do about them until/if they happen but I think getting a few possible answers before they happen can help any fears.
I must say, it's great to see so many ladies having babies at prime time. I really feel different toward this pregnancy...when I had my other 3 I was in my early twenties so ok, I'm not rushing around like I used to be I'm more laid back now.
As for conceiving naturally sereneno I had a MC about 18 months ago at 8 weeks (I was 40 then) and now I'm pregnant 20 weeks with this little tyke! I'm 41 now and will be 42 when I deliver. Both were conceived naturally. There is hope for us you know and 40 doesn't mean you're knackered and that's it!
Wow...johnworf...you've had the lot! Have to say I think I'd take the c-sec after-pains over the 3rd deg tear anytime
Yes, you can take pain meds while breast feeding..I also had IV anti-biotics for several days....and all was fine with that. Definately try and get a breast feeding cushion. If not - then two nice pillows at an angle. Take your own...hospital ones are made of concrete and horsehair I didn't have those staples....just dissolvable stitches. And as for help afterwards....MMmmm, that's my concern too. I'm just gonna SHOUT and MOAN if I need help.
There are LOADS of us on the thread....it's soooo pleasing. Well done all of us lot. Hey, I bet we look pretty good too ....collectively we're probably a cross between Halle Berry and Salma Hayek x
LOL jeanjeanie! I wish I looked like those two lasses but even I don't think I want boobs as big as Salma's! Are they real?
I'm starting to get a teeny bit nervous about delivering this one. My last labour was late so induced by pessary and I tore a bit, don't know what degree. But I mentioned to a friend which hospital I'm booked into and she started hyperventilating and saying 'just refuse just refuse!!' I won't mention which one because I've said so much that would identify me. But suffice to say it's a London hospital with all the problems those hosptials have. I had ds in another London hospital and it wasn't too bad! But everyone I know has had babies at my local hospital without many problems, the mws seem hugely experienced and it ain't gonna be as clean as the Portland but I'd rather have a short journey and know there's an ER nearby! Oh well, it really threw me that she was so negative!
Hahah ipanemagirl...I mourn for my lovely little 34b knorks (a distant memory) now a whopping 36G.. Dread to think how big Salma's must have been preggie Bought a mag yesterday and there was a whole fashion spread on bikinis.....I laughed...then sobbed!
Gosh it sounds like London hospitals seem to throw up so many problems. I moved from SE London 2 years ago to just outside M25....and local hospital here(despite midwives being VERY miserable) is excellent, although the maternity is closing at end of year and moving 25 miles away.....such a shame.
If it's any consulation...I have loaded friends who've not been thrilled with Portland....seems maternity care care be so pot luck.
All this talk about giant boobs is making me feel inadequate! I'm only an A cup- but not for long hopefully
On the hospital front, I'm considering going private, partly because it's my first pg and partly because my local NHS hospital, although excellent medically, is always so oversubscribed it feels like a war zone in a third world country. I'm thinking about St Johns and Elizabeth. Anyone else been there?
Hi there, I'm 40 and pregnant (goodness sounds like something you'd say in one of those group therapy sessions!!! LOL). This will be my 3rd, have 2 boys age 5 1/2 and 3 3/4, I'm convinced my broodiness kicked in to prove to myself I was still young, have 12 week scan tomorrow - well actually dating scan as have no idea when I conceived. I am a little worried as feel I am still in denial - but I am sooooo tired all the time I'm now starting to feel my age!. Anyway great to meet you all, and lets hope we can be an excellent support network for each other. Macca
Well ladies, my trusty milk machines aren't that much bigger than when I started and the old 'spaniel ears' are just about inflating enough to make them look presentable once more - much to DH's delight! I'm sure they'll be up to the job in the end though
Thanks once again jeanjeannie for your excellent tips and advice. Feeling much better now and hopefully won't wake up at 4am tomorrow in a cold sweat
amy123 good luck with your scan tomorrow. Always makes me cry when I look at the screen with the LO jumping around. Dunno why.....mind you, anything makes me cry these days.
Glad I had the choice of only 3 hospitals close by and luckily, when I checked the one I wanted out it came up as excellent. Link is here if you want to look up your local hospitals if you have a choice:
hi all im 40 and on baby number 7 he is due in july in answer to nancy66 question i did concieve naturally 2 of my children when i was in my 20,s i needed fertility treatment for but it seemed as soon as i got to mid thirties it all changed for me, i needed no treatment and this was very much a suprise baby but a very much welcomed one
I am 40 too this is my fist baby (second pregnancy had late miscarriage along time ago) due in Middle July. I had actually give up and thought this was the menopause I'm on my own too Lou so you will not be the only 40+ single Mum.
My parents did not initially react well (I am 40 for god sake not 14) but Mum is better and Dad has stopped being objectionable. I have a fantastic GP who is really supportive and looked so relieved when I smiled and said of course I wanted to keep the little monster an most recently so disappointed when I told him I was hoping to move. A wonderful Midwife who is part of a great group who are all supportive.
All my friends know how much I have wanted this and are fantastic, As have college been.
oh dear msdynamo that's not very encouraging that all 3 of them are rated least performing! What will you do? Are there any other choices?
Welcome to disneystar and kaz1967
Hats off to baby number 7 (and I thought I was brave on my 4th)
kaz1967 strange that your parents reacted so badly to your pregnancy news. I would have thought they'd be ecstatic after giving up hope of being grandparents to your children. I'm sure once it's born they'll be all over it like only grandparents are
Interesting to see how the NHS services can be so hit and miss all over the country isn't it? Are we all playing that popular game of 'Post Code Lottery'?
Hi Ladies , Quickie q how much time did your doc say to 'rest' as not lift weights etc after cvs ? Had wierd dreams last night about cvs ..am not looking forward to it 1st one was not nice its next week btw.
Congratulations all fellow pregnant 40somethings! Think I'm the granny of the thread, am 46 and my second baby is due this week. Have had a great pregnancy, no different from my first, 23 years ago, except this one is bigger and I think livelier - I'm definitely at the getting-slightly-fed-up-of-having-my-internal-organs-battered-and-would-like-to get-this-baby-out stage. Nancy66, good luck, mine was natural conception, I do recommend the younger man (my dp is 33), and lots of sex. Wahwah, loved the link, though unfortunately I don't have the established career and financial security - I decided to start a new career three years ago, and am currently a penniless student.
Does anyone else love their pregnant body? I dread to think what it'll look like after the birth, but at the moment I love the way my previously saggy middle aged middle is all firm and lifted up.
Hieveryone, can I join? I'm 41 and on my second pregnancy. Ds (aged 15 months) was conceived using IVF but I'm delighted to say that this pregnancy has happened naturally!
Didoreth, congratulations! I recently discovered that my Gran (who died a few years ago) was born when her mother was 46. She lived a long and healthy life!
Good morning everyone - great to see lots of us out there!
Wow Disneystar - that's amazing! I'm due on Independence Day - July 4th - when in July are you due?
I see you're due in July also, Kaz - I'm glad you've got some good support with your friends and college.
Hello too to Didoreth - yes, I can agree about the saggy belly lifted up - but I'm sure in my case it will sag down even further after delivery, so I'm making the most of it, and wearing 'form-fitting' maternity wear and sticking my bump out!
Hi too to TheApprentice and congratulations on your pregnancy - I'm on Number 2 as well, and both IVF.
Right, off to the midwife now for my check. Have a nice day everyone! TNPx
I definately feel much different than my last pregnancy 17 years ago! I pretty much sailed through all of my 3 previous ones (apart from a bit of pre-eclampsia toward the end of them). This one it seems I'm playing 'what-can-go-wrong, will-go-wrong' Bingo. I was already on meds for high b/p which is ok at the moment. Recently I was told I have gestational diabetes (a first for me) and I'm injecting insulin now.
Still, it's all worth it in the end.
I'm starting to feel like the baby of the bunch on this thread and hey, I aint complaining
this is a lovely,friendly thread! Take no Prisoners, how lovely that you have also adopted. Its great that there are so many different options for having families nowadays.
Those of you who are due very soon, good luck! (Im currently 25 weeks)
johnworf i also hve GD and inject insulin to im now on 14 units twice a day the baby is growing huge and ive just had a growth scan and he weighs just under 3lb and im 28 weeks but i had this last time i was induced at 36 wks and he weighed in at 9lb 40z apparnatly they are looking at inducing me at 36/37 wks now so only 6 or 7 weeks to go and that doesnt seem possible
kaz i know we are on the due in july thread to just wanted to say i thought i was going through the menopause to i hadnt seen a period in nearly a year and my husband took me away for my 40th birthday last october and now little samuel is nearly here not that im compainin about that i am more relaxed with this pregnancy in iteslf much more than my daughter who is 22 and is pregnant as well so older mums do benefit i think being through before i can speak up for myelf i know what i want and what i dont want and i make my views known to to the medical staff that is i really wanted to go full term with this one but i have been pointed out the dangers and have decided in a way they are right but induction i do not like but what can i do.
Johnworf - Due 15 September Ipanemagirl - Due 16 September
I've put my 'true' due date down although reading through disneystars post on gestational diabetes I'll be having it in August sometime!!
I'm having a growth scan along with my 20 week (although I'll be 21 weeks) next Tuesday and I'm already carrying a huge baby bulge around with me.
I'm currently injecting 8 units just in the mornings but that is showing borderline glucose max results. Got a feeling it'll be increased at next weeks clinic.
Glad I'm down for a C section if I'm giving birth to Moby Dick!
disneystar what's it like being pregnant at the same time as your daughter? Mine is the same age as yours and has absolutely no intentions of having a baby - she'd rather have a pug dog.
I think it sounds quite cool both being in the club at the same time
Hi girls - can I join you? Due 4 Oct - a week after my 40th! First after a lot of bad luck with mcs over last 5 years Now 17 weeks and keeping fingers crossed all will be well with this little one xx
Hi again, this thread is lovely! My due date is 15 May (although would quite like an extra week, as I'm just not ready!).
Re conception question, husband is 5 years older than me and I have fallen pregnant EVERY time we have not used contraception. As this isn't the usual picture painted in the media of older women's fertility, I thought I would speak up. I get so sick of hearing women blamed for 'leaving it too late'-as if we all decide these things on our own and have the means to go ahead at any time we want!
LOL @ didoreth and jeanjeannie re the conceiving tips! We used the lots of sex technique and my DH is 4 years younger than me There's a lot to be said for it ya know
wahwah I've managed to get pregnant twice over 40 although one resulted in MC but like you say, if you believed everything you read we'd be ready for the scrap heap by now!!
Johnworf good question - I was going to ask about screening
I had NF at 12 weeks and got a high risk result for DS (combined with bloods 1:30). We decided against further invasive tests despite my Ob getting quite stroppy with me (yes he really did!). It was pointless really as we wouldn't terminate for DS so not worth the risk of MC for me personally.
I have my 20 week scan too in 3 weeks so I suppose we'll find out how things are progressing then.
I must say I now almost wish that I had opted out of all screening as the high risk result did initially cause me a lot of anxiety and sadness (dare I admit that?) which I seem to now be dealing with much better....but still have the odd mind niggles every so often. Anyone else had any high risk results or experiences to share?
like others here i refused a lot of tests like DS i already have a son with downs hes 7 and lovely and my desicion was if it happens it does but all things indicate this baby has not got it. the reason i was so shocked with this baby was we carry a genetic gene called crouzons syndrome and 2 of my boys have it including the one with ds i have had 3 tests with this baby after 20 weeks and each one was inconclusive so i dont really know now having a final test on may 19th and hopefully we will know i told the consultant im having him whatever the outcome but its been a hard time and my husband and i have suffered in our relationship because of it, i know i am high risk but im st here 28 weeks now samuel as we are going to call him is kicking away and to me he deserves a chance,so thats what im doing i have bad days like thinking what have i done but other days hes just a baby to me my new son soon to arrive. i can understand your niggles and concerns.
as for the ladies saying they had a younger man well its strange and i guess just true for me but in my previous marriage (3 kids)ive had to have fertility treatment for and this time around i married a man 10 years younger than me and no problems at all 3 kids and nearly this one now with no probs at all apart from this surise baby i have fell pregnant within the first month everytime im very lucky. this genetic syndrome happens 1 in 300,000 we have 2 boys with it so we might be compatible to conceive but we are also compatible together for the gene and how unlucky is that
Wahwah - I so agree with you about the negative press there seems to be regarding 'older mothers' and 'leaving it too late'. Especially if they go through the IVF route, if anything goes wrong, the attitude seems to be that the woman has somehow brought it on herself, what can she expect at her age, etc etc blah blah blah. It really annoys me. It's so encouraging to read all the positive comments on here and problem-free pregnancies, and that for those of us experiencing any difficulties, how unlikely it is down to age, but more the unpredictable nature of pregnancy itself.
TheApprentice - thanks for your nice comments about our adopted DS1. I feel so, so lucky we've already got two gorgeous DSs and another DC on the way, too, after so manay years of infertility, I can't tell you. I was initially very reluctant to try IVF and we wanted to go through the adoption route first - which was an amazingly positive experience, one of those things that was 'meant to happen' and I think, subsequently, allowed me to be mentally at ease enough to tackle IVF. Did you conceive your DS with your first attempt or not? How amazing you conceived naturally afterwards, too!
Regarding the comments on testing ... my feeling was not to have any. I didn't even want a 12 week scan, but did opt for the 20 week one, as I thought it might be best to find out if the placenta might be in the way and be forewarned etc (it wasn't). But I was very very uncomfortable, personally, with the whole anxiety-inducing issue of testing, with this pregnancy and with my last, and whatever the final outcome with this baby, so be it, we feel.
The posts regarding testing are very interesting ones...
I decided at 9 weeks I was going to have the nuchal fold test and then changed my mind when I got to the appropriate weeks in my pregnancy to have it done. Don't ask me why because I don't know. Perhaps I'd decided there and then that what will be, will be.
When my consultant asked me at 15 weeks why I had told the MW I didn't want the triple test I just said, because I don't want to (with determined look on face). I'll take this baby however it comes out. She looked kinda surprised at this - a touch of paranoia on my part here but I swear it was a look of BA Barracus saying 'yo damn foo!'
The sonographer at my 12 weeks scan explained about the 20 week anomaly scan and then asked me (again, another one asking) if I was having the triple tests. Once again I said nope. He then, quite adamantly told me that he WOULD be informing me of any deformities and that if I didn't want to know about them then I had to refuse the scan as this was hospital policy.
Personally, and it really is personally as I would not wish to offend anyone, I just couldn't terminate especially now I've felt the munchkin using my bladder as a trampoline.
I don't see why anyone has to be pressurised into a test if they're happy with the outcome whatever it is. I dunno what hospital's/consultant's agendas are really.
I admire you all for refusing tests there are some interesting comments. I had cvs with dd1 and will be having cvs for dc 2. I just would worry too much I think the whole way through. Well we also went for the lots of sex but since I became pg it has been keep away from me or I might throw up on you !!!
Hi there, can I join? I'm 40 and 9 weeks pregnant with DC2, due date Dec 1st. Have DS 20 months. Both conceived naturally (am v. lucky) and basically just had lots of sex over ovulation dates. Didn't have invasive tests with DS (but did have nuchal fold) but have have been referred to Kings (south London) this time for my 12 week scan incase I want a CVS as they do it there and then if you request it. I feel anxious over having it and it's such a personal thing but feel I would be too fretful throughout my pregnancy like Rosa said. Feeling pretty tired and sick and can't wait to get these early weeks over with and start feeling a bit better (also to have scan etc and feel a bit more relaxed and less anxious). Can't believe starting to feel bloated already. Had to buy a stretchy pair of M&S trousers, elasticated waist and all (v. granny!!). Really pleased this thread is here! x
Last time I had it was just after New Year - seriously!
Had some bleeding early in this pregnancy (on top of my early worries about MC), then a bit more bleeding about a month ago so it's officially off the menu.
I told my DH we can do it again next New Year. He's delighted
When I went to see my GP to tell her I was pregnant we were just discussing the fact that I was 40 and therefore a 'higher risk' - I was just really asking about my options as I had no idea - and she told me that she could refer me to Kings who do it on the NHS.
Hi Pwcbird and welcome! You will be glad of those M&S stretchy trousers! I bought a (maternaity, mind you!) pair ages ago, found them way too big, even with the band folded over several times on the waist and cursed buying the damn things - now I'm filling them out and glad I've got 'em!
great thread, I am 44 and due to give birth the end of may. Not my first, had babies in my 30's plus one at 41. I have obssesed this pregnancy about being "too old" but after reading all this, I feel good. And according to the studies, I may live longer!
Hi Takenoprisoners. Am wearing stretchy trousers now. They come up to my boobs. I know high-waisted trousers are supposed to be in but this is ridiculous. . Can't chat now as DH waiting for wifely attention now that DS tucked up and asleep. Does it never end for us ladies?? (he's lovely really and no, I don't mean that sort of attention - there's none of that going on at 9 weeks preggers!).
Oooh, I wish this thread had been about when I was pregnant with DS2! Not preggers and don't want to be, but just wanted to pop in and say good luck to you all. I had DS1 at 39 and DS2 at 41, both conceived naturally (top tips: lots of sex and both of you to eat pumpkin seeds on everything).
Anyway, sending lots of good delivery vibes and just know you'll all be fabulous! Bugmum xx
Interesting discussion about testing....it is soo personal isn't it? We opted for a nuchal scan with blood tests and for dd1 the odds came back around 1 in 3000..not bad for an old bird (then 40) But this time round we ended up with a 1 in 2 chance. Pretty scary - and we decided on a cvs - just so we'd know... and everything came back fine. But the angst testing causes shouldn't be under-estimated. And no one should feel obliged to have any tests by the medical profession...especially because of age...pregnancy itself brings enough stress. I don't think the triple test exists at my hospital....too many false positives...think it's the nuchal fold with bloods as an option.
johnworf rofl at your poor DH waiting patiently for next new year! My DP has already started looking into having 'the snip'....in hope that we can have sex again...without me getting preggers...and we've not been together 3 years yet
pwcbird with trousers that glamorous you should get yourself on the style and beauty topic!!
hello can I join? "Takenoprisioners" good thread name. I'm 41 at the mo and will be 42 by the time this baby comes. I'm due the 4th Oct same as baby cakes. I have 1 DS who will be 5 when this one is born. I had a nucal scan and blood tests this time, which I did also for ds but I was so more paranoid and stressed this time round. I have only just started to let myself believe that I'm actually having a baby!! I was just having a conversation with my mom about how I think i need bifocals, it just felt a bit surreal the idea of a baby and bifocals
I have had a go at the list : Wahwha - 15 May Shulli - ClOSE! jeanjeannie- 30 May takenoprisoners - 4 July Disneystar - 17July johnworf - 15 Sept iapanemagirl - 16 sept Hedgepig - 4 Oct Babycakes - 4 Oct
Hi Christie1 - welcome to you, congratulations and so glad you're feeling good about being 40+ and fabulous! So you should, too! You'll be one of the ones due pretty soon now, then - do you want to add your date to the list?
Hi to Hedgepig, welcome and congratulations. If you think baby and bifocals surreal, try my problem of baby and bun
. 
and dc2...well, that was a shock - first time without being 'careful'....well, it was a great way to celebrate my 42nd b'day!! 
