Just started a new thread www.mumsnet.com/Talk/antenatal_clubs/813774-Viable-and-ready-to-go-smile?rnd=1251215253099

at globs of snot - I lost a couple last week. Dp nearly threw up - well he did ask if he could see it!! Asked mw and she said unless it's green/brown or streaked with blood, then it's normal. Tis good we can ask each other though - saves worrying too much.

No wonder Lady Liz of Hurley only did it the one time, she was probably horrified she couldn't hire a minion to have piles for her.

it surely is a glamorous thing!

Oh I have had a few of those globs of snot, great isn't it, this pg lark?

god, i really need to distract myself from all this wondering, wondering. the only thing i can think of is food though!

no blood. TMI alert!!! it was a big glob of snot

I have had loads of (tmi alert) mucousy discharge throughout, don't know if this is part of the hideousness of pg, or if it is bits of plug. I think it replenishes itself mainly - but if it was streaked with blood then it Means Something.

anyone else lost mucous plug? mine just gone. wonder if it will mean anything

I have gone proper berserker haven't I? I should stick to ironing tea towels and hoovering the cats.

Lol @ blue with trousers undone for homebirth man; my dh once brought a neighbour in while I was sat on the toilet with the door open - we lived in a flat and said toilet was bang opposite the front door . Poor old man, he was probably scarred for life.

Possibly insane, but I say that's no reason not to

Yay JRocks!

So check this out, right: I was fannying about on Facebook just now, and my mate sent me a link to this site that generates anagrams of names. So I stuck some of our final first/middle names shortlist in, just out of being a saddo with too much time on my hands curiosity, and it was all sort of silly stuff. but then one of the first names plus middle names plus dh surname came back with Extreme Glory From Now. I totally have to use this combination don't I? How auspicious is that?

Or am I insane with pg hormones?

Bloody hell...the home birthing equipment's just been delivered and I was lying fast asleep on the couch with my trousers undone when dp let the bloke walk in with it all!!! The shame

Also, letter for consultation with anaesthetist just arrived - next tuesday. Want to know whether I can have an epiduaral if I end up having CS [if she doesn't turn]

Good luck for Thursday, Neddie.

Can't believe due dates are here already!

Sending positive labour vibes BabyLady!

I've spoken to my midwife today, she chased up my GTT results and I don't appear to have GD, hurrah!

Now I just need to convince the consultant tomorrow that they can start things off in about a week and I'll be set

Hope you're all having a good tuesday

OMG, so many posts on a Monday. Hard to catch up.

Great news on passing your test bigbang. I passed mine October last year but tbh haven't done that much driving as London traffic still freaks me out.

My Mum arrived yesterday so now the LO can arrive, and pronto please.

Due date tomorrow. Went for acucpuncture yesterday in the hope that it will speed things along. Another appointment on Wednesday night so fingers crossed.

Best of luck for Thursday Neddie, will be looking forward to hearing how the LOs are.

I had heard that you need to introduce a bottle before 5 weeks for the baby to sucessfully use both. No idea if that is true, but I am all up for DH doing 10:30 feed of expressed milk. Planning to get that rolling after a couple of weeks. May be dreaming, but they're free right??

sick of work
should be nesting!

Thats the word Minshu! One thing I'm looking forward to getting back is my brain..am sure its still in there somewhere...

Will keep my fingers crossed for a nice quiet day on Thursday for you Neddie so you get to go in first! x x

Has been raining here for the past 3 days, might start a thread ''AIBU to want to move to the South of France at 37 weeks?'' !!

Morning all,

Wow, Neddie, so close now!! Enjoy your last couple of days before everything changes (in a good way!!)

Re: BF I'm just going to go with the flow (excuse the pun!!) and see how LO and I get on with it all. Be flexible and not put a lot of pressure on myself, there's a lot of support available with a lot of contradictory advice so I'll just stay open minded!!!

After the little bouts of nesting that I've had, now I have finished work... nothing, nadda, no urges to clean at all!! Would really like to though as I'm bothered about things that I think need cleaning but can't actually be arsed to go and clean them!!

My tooth broke on Saturday so had to go to the emergency dentist who bodged it so it wasn't hurting, but then went to my dentist who is going to put a crown on it, have to go to be measured on Saturday and then (hopefully) it will be fitted next Friday which will make me 38+6 really hope it is done then as I can't stand the thought of going into labour as it is now Also it looks horrible so has got me down a bit, just not what I need now, so close to D-Day!! So providing they fit it on the 4th I will go for labour coming anytime from the 5th instead of the 1st!!

My guestimation however is the 8th, weighing 7lb 7oz (due 12th) DH's guess is 14th weighing 8lb, as he and his dad both weighed 8lb and he would like to continue the tradition

Hi everyone, I have exclusively breastfed both of my previous two and dd slept through the night from 6 weeks and ds slept through for the first time at three weeks so it really is alot more to do with the baby rather than the method of feeding

HI all
Well done bigbang how brave to do your test now. I bet the examiner was a bit nervous!
I am booked from 9 am on Thursday but there could be emergencies before me. So 48 hours till they are with us. Yesterday we sorted absolutely all the stuff out and prepared for their arrival home. They chuck you out after 2 days in Salisbury which I was quite surprised about. I will try to let my RL friend give a message on here if she can find it.
Ps.Moses baskets are good and you can take them with you if you have to stay anywhere overnight.

well done bigbang! It's such a great liberator. I only passed my test four years ago so I still remember feeling as pleased as punch when he gave me the certificate

Have found lots of pop up cots on ebay so might get one of those, but I think we'll indulge in the basket so I can move it about with me downstairs while he's wee.

littlecheese your step mum does need a slap.

I fancy 09/09/09, which would make him 09 days early.

The cat thing depends on the cat I think Minshu - we have one cat who doesn't care about all this new stuff once she's sniffed it but the other just regards it all as potential nap places. Luckily he's the one that terrified of water so we just spray him and he runs a mile.

I got a set of the closer to nature bottles when I got a subscription to a magazine, so they're there if I decide/need to use them. My friends do combined feeding and their boy sleeps really well so it does seem very tempting.

Thanks everyone Such a relief having that extra bit of freedom. Dp is pleased I can help with the driving but also a bit miffed at having to share 'his' car!

WRT bottles and boobs- I think they say you shouldn't introduce bottles till after 6 weeks to avoid nipple confusion if you are trying to establish bf. However ds had bottles for about 3/4 days when he was two weeks old as we had a rough old time breast feeding to start with. It caused him no problems though and he went back to the breast just fine and carried on till 20 months. We used the Dr Browns ones with a weird teat in a teat thing, so he had to work harder to get the milk out and didn't find it 'easy' compared to the breast. When I went back to Uni when he was 9 months we used the closer to nature bottles and they were great, though it took about 3 months of persuasion for him to drink from them at that age! I expressed using a mini electric medula pump I bought from ebay, I must dig it out I don't know where I put it when I stopped uni.

I think I have my head firmly in the sand, too, Tigerfeet, StayFrosty, Daffodilli, et al. Really can't believe that I'll be going through the birth stuff, or dealing with a baby, and it's getting fairly soon. It looks like I'm not the only one, though

Lizlemon - sounds like a good idea, regarding getting the cat used to the baby parerphanalia. Might put up the moses basket when we get back from this weekend's family visit.

Congratulations, BigBang!!! Freedom!

Still no nesting instinct here. Not even a little bit. Hibernating, yes. Nesting, no.

I've invited the girls round on 11th Sept, and baby is due 22nd, so she's not allowed to be any earlier than that.

Sweepstake, Daffodilli? I'm going to randomly guess at 7lb 11 oz at 5.32am on 25th September.

SprinkleofStardust - been to a bf clinic today - both the mw and experienced mum who came in said the same - the odd bottle (expressed or ff) isn't really going to upset things, and might just give your nipples the chance to heal if they are cracked... Expressing ensures that your supply comes in OK, though. All babies are different and we'll all find our own "routines". MW reiterated that they are there to help us get started, and that we'll get lists of numbers to call for advice when we leave the hospital.

LittleCheese - shame on your step mother - never ceases to amaze me just how insensitive (or downright nasty) people can be when they speak to a pregnant woman. Like suddenly it's ok to make really personal comments!

Day and a half left at work. It's horrible - not looking forward to tomorrow, when I'll have to have follow up conversations with my "displaced" team members. Doesn't help that another round of voluntary redundancy has just been announced. Roll on Wednesday lunch-time.

I often wake up with aching hips from lying on my side at the moment and complained about it to DP yesterday morning - he called me his "achey-breaky baby-pod"

littlecheese that sounds perfect! I ain't that lucky so I'm not even going to try and hold out any hope. You'll be fine - DD1 was 2 when DD2 came along. I fed her for 17 months without a problem. Not one to bizz around cleaning when kids are asleep, I slept when they slept

i have a friend who breast and bottle fed from her ds being 2 weeks old, she has never had a problem with him latching on or taking the bottle. The combined feeding meant she could feed around 9 o'clock then go to bed and her dh would do a breast milk bottle feed at around midnight before going to bed himself. Then she would do a breast feed around 3 after having a good 6 hours sleep and her dh would do first morning feed around 6 also having 6ish hours sleep, it sounds too good to be true to me but we will definately be trying this kind of routine I think. I am officially horrid without enough sleep and having dd to look after too I dont know how I'll cope. I think breast feeding is worrying me more and more the closer my due date gets

sprinkle I didn't get a choice with DDs. Neither of them took to a bottle (or dummies, to my relief). Do want to give these closer to nature bottles a try though. My friend is combining - her LO is 2 months now and sleeps from 8.30pm to 7.30am I think they suggest just bf at first and then slowly introduce the bottle. Seeing her tomorrow so I'll ask her what advice she was given

as if my last post wasn't long enough. Have any of you ladies bought any bedtime nursing bra's for a reasonable price?

Hi ladies, hope you are all well.

well done bigbang, great timing. I cant imagine how I would have felt not being able to drive when I had DD.

Neddie, good luck for thursday again i am jealous.

Had 38 week appointment today and bubs is still fully engaged and has been for 2 weeks now, why does he/she not want to come out.

In march we moved into a new build house and at the time I noticed one of my neighbours to the back of us looked about the same size as me pregnancy wise. I have never spoken to her and I have just noticed her this evening coming home with new baby. Do you think its really stalkerish if I popped over with a card tomorrow? Baring in mind she probably doesn't even know I exist as you cant see our house from hers

Had a lovely "encounter" with my step mum this weekend. She really is a very nice women and is great with DD but not all that tactful. I told her I was fed up and wanted baby now and she said "don't worry you wont always be FAT...." I could have cried and slapped her all at the same time. DH said hang on she isn't fat she is pregnant but she was pretty sure I was fat

I think DH just defrosted it in hot water when he had DD and I went back to work. He also used to add the bags of minimal amounts together which I also think is not recommended. It was all fine.

If you want to mix feed, do by all means, but try to leave it for a few weeks to get your supply going.
We mixed fed from about 5 months but I finally gave up bfding when DD had her 1st birthday

defrosting bm - I used to just store it in small quantities so it only took half an hour or whatever to be pourable then I'd run it under the hot tap, or stand it in hot water to melt the ice cubes

Well done Bigbang on passing your test, I love driving and can't imagine not being able to!!

Blue - I was told to let breast milk defrost in the fridge for 24 hours and that it was ok to give LO it cold, (although if they're used to having warm milk that might not be the easiest?) and someone else told me that to warm it up just do it as you would a bottle, putting it in hot water. But second timers may have better knowledge...

Everyone seems to have an opinion about BF it appears to me, 'don't mix with bottle, it's ok to mix with a bottle, don't do this, do that, blah blah blah', it's quite overwhelming!!!

Re: Morning sickness, the all day nausea I had in the beginning has made a comeback which is lovely not quite as bad as it was for the first 15 weeks but with the extra weight and indigestion it all just adds to the discomfort!! On a good note though I had a lovely 2 hour sleep this afternoon

Congratulations Bigbang on passing your test!!

Lizlemon we had the cheap £29 moses basket form John lewis and it is still like new. I just moved it up stairs and down stairs by sliding it . I also used the pushchair lastime and will probably do so again this. and we had a bouncy chair but DD didn't fit into it for a couple of weeks as she was so tiny.
Stealthpolarbear I think mothercare do the head huggers if you get really desperate
ahh yes here
You may be able to get them on ebay too, a good wash and they will be as good as new.

I've been a bit of an ebay queen lately. I have several bargains for DD to go back to nursery in , mostly T shirt dresses which she is finding easier to cope with with the grown up pants.
I also sold a doll which I have had for a very very long time for .... £285!!!! Thats our new shed paid for!!!

Well done bigbang perfect timing!

audrey and lizlemon I asked mw about cramping last week and she said it's completely normal - just a bit of an irritated uterus getting ready for the big day...

jrocks good luck with GTT test

Just to let you know - Tesco have got half price Tommee Tippee 'closer to nature' stuff at the mo. A friend of mine is combining breast and bottle and has been raving about the bottles in that range.

Advice needed here Does anyone know how to defrost breast milk? My friend has asked loads of people and nobody seems to know the answer

My appetite has gone - feel sick at night as well as regular BH. Not due til 20th and really would prefer LO to be either on time or slightly late...

oh it's so reassuring to hear that you're all having the same symptoms that I've got.
So uncomfortable, lots of vomiting, and generally fed up of being pregnant. Willing this baby to come early - don't think I can last until the 13th!

Congratulations LadyEm - so exciting. And Well done big bang. Was the examiner nervous about having you drive?

My lovely friends threw me a baby shower at the weekend - so many generous presents. Made it all seem very real.

Well done big bang.

We have a rocking crib for in our room amd a more portable moses basket for use downstairs/at the outlaws etc as I found it easier than trying to juggle the moses basket up and downstairs, manage a baby, a toddler and an anoying cat!

Mine is not allowed to arrive early as it will clash with too many family birthdays. Would appreciate it if followed siblings leads and arrives about 7 days late (not the 16 that ds managed thank you) so that I am not in hospital round the 22nd as that is ds's birthday!

We are going to need a new thread soon as well! Anyone feeling inventive?

Both me and mum have had dreams that he will arrive on the 7th,(due 13th). Shall we do a list of when we think they will arrive and see who gets the closest to their guess? (I know there is a word for this but I cant think of it at the moment!)

So I think the 7th of Sept, at 2.32pm, weighing 8lb 7oz!!

A 9/9/9 baby would be pretty good. Although mine will prob hang on in there till long after my due date (the 22nd) if he is anything like my dd. I know 2nd babies are supposed to come earlier, but I know a few people who've had to be induced 2nd time around (and have then had absolutely enormous babies); curiously enough, they all had boys too....

Congrats BigBang! I had my last lesson last week until the baby is born.

My baby will be arriving on 09/09/09 according to my DH. I don't think I could take waiting that long. I'm so damned uncomfortable.

no, the 11th is when my baby is arriving, thank you very much. At 9.30 am.
I've lost the head hugger from the baby's car seat
am having a mild panic but will save the real panic for when I've searched everywhere. Annoying thing is I'm sure it's been around recently - think I washed it very recently when I washed the car seat cover

I'm only washing things that will fit in the washing machine. The cat will fit. Haven't seen him for a while as it happens...

Congrats BigBang!! It great to get that out of the way isn't it?! DH MADE me do mine and am glad he did!

If you are compelled to wash the cat you are really nesting TigerFeet!!

Just popping in to see news from Lady Em - CONGRATULATIONS!! What a positive birth story too - hope mine goes as smoothly

Congratulations on passing your test bigbang

Fingers crossed for you on wednesday JRocks

Neddie - Good luck for thursday - we;ll all be thinking of you I'm sure! What time are you booked in??

Will try and pop in again later - actually getting quite nesty now, been cleaning all morning and just made a start washing dd's car seat down and fitting a new cover - how sad am I tho that I'm really excited to see it "all cleaned up and shiny like new!!"

You're all having your babies on Sept 1st then? I'd rather wait another week if that's OK, but no longer

Well done Bigbang! Passing my driving test was one of the most liberating things I've ever done.

Good luck with the GTT JRocks.

Not too bad vomit wise here thankfully, I did more than my fair share in the first 30 weeks or so.

I am frantically washing everyting that isn't nailed down atm. DD and the cat are learning not to sit too still Am I nesting? Hopefully it'll transfer to the rest of the house soon.

Well done bigbang!
yes, a bit more vomitey here too, not too bad but unpleasant

Congratulations LadyEm, and well done on your test bigbang!

I've been out having a glucose tolerance test this morning, should find out by wednesday if I have gestational diabetes or not. Not being allowed to eat or drink anything from 10.30 last night was pretty horrible, and I sat in the waiting room praying I wasn't going to heave through empty-belly heartburn.

I'm hoping the consultant and midwives are going to be kind and say they will get things moving at around 37 weeks for me... as the baby was measuring 38 weeks last week that would seem sensible to me

Hope you're all going to have a good week - only a week tomorrow and it's 1st September!

bigbang well done you!!! I am really , wish I had my test out of the way.

I now have two moses baskets and a cot. My mum gave me one (the one I slept in when I was a baby) and MIL brought one round yesterday.
The older one is large and wicker so is heavier to carry around and will stay upstairs I think. The smaller, lighter one can be moved around and the cot will be in the nursery.
Not to mention the pram and the sling I have. Too many baby beds in my house!

My best friend's sister had her baby yesterday and I want mine now.

Hey everyone!

Congratulations Ladyem! How wonderful, so glad it went smoothly for you both!

Good luck for Thursday Neddie, how exciting to know when they are going to arrive!

I just passed my driving test, at 37 weeks today! Thank goodness, I am so glad its done and dusted before the baby comes.

I have been having loads of cramps along with tightenings on and off for a while now. I don't think they mean anything, at least not in my case! I am hoping that they mean my uterus will be all limbered up ready for a quick birth in a couple of weeks though. I keep forgetting RLT, prob because I hate it so much. I have bought a pineapple though, I am also planning on going into labour on the 1st

Anyone else seen a return of MS? I have been sick in the mornings a few times now and anything vaguely gross is making me heave . DS is has just been dipping his bread into his water and sucking it out then eating it and I am trying so hard not to be sick! He hasn't been clingy at all, but has started 'the terrible twos' properly. He is being a right little pickle at the moment, just when I don't have the energy or motivation to cope with it.

Hope everyone is well, will try to check in more often so I don't miss loads of posts, its hard to keep up!

Hey everyone!

Congratulations Ladyem! How wonderful, so glad it went smoothly for you both!

Good luck for Thursday Neddie, how exciting to know when they are going to arrive!

I just passed my driving test, at 37 weeks today! Thank goodness, I am so glad its done and dusted before the baby comes.

I have been having loads of cramps along with tightenings on and off for a while now. I don't think they mean anything, at least not in my case! I am hoping that they mean my uterus will be all limbered up ready for a quick birth in a couple of weeks though. I keep forgetting RLT, prob because I hate it so much. I have bought a pineapple though, I am also planning on going into labour on the 1st

Anyone else seen a return of MS? I have been sick in the mornings a few times now and anything vaguely gross is making me heave . DS is has just been dipping his bread into his water and sucking it out then eating it and I am trying so hard not to be sick! He hasn't been clingy at all, but has started 'the terrible twos' properly. He is being a right little pickle at the moment, just when I don't have the energy or motivation to cope with it.

Hope everyone is well, will try to check in more often so I don't miss loads of posts, its hard to keep up!

I like those pop up cribs cos they fold up really small and flat, handy if you're not using it all the time or want to stick it out of the way for future dcs. We used it till dd was touching the sides

I am glad I am not the only one who has been in baby denial until recently I have no excuse either, I'm a 2nd timer, lol.

I had that moment in the middle of the night last night, settling back down after a loo trip. I thought how nice it would be to have my body back and then realised that to get it I'm going to have an actual baby.

Might look into the little collapsible cot option as something to take to the friends on the other side of London - quite like the idea of the insect net to keep our curious cat at bay too (we've been testing him out with a cat net on the crib, and spraying him with water when he looks like he might want to get in so I think he's getting the message but he seems to think every new thing is a bed for him until we persuade him otherwise). John Lewis have a moses basket for £29 which doesn't seem too bad either.

So exciting that there'll be more babies by the end of the week. Hope all goes well, Neddie.

StayFrosty!! thats what I thought yesterday when I came out of the Birthing Centre - how haven't I figured it out before..?!

Oh shit! <panic> so it is.

omg, I'm going to have a baby.

woah, head rush.

How exiting Neddie! You'll be cuddling your LOs so soon!

Having lots of cramps and BHs, plus the feeling that hes trying to kick his way out means I go round with a permanent grimace! Hope the wind doesn't change or I'll stay like it! Let us know what your MW says Audrey.

Liz I bought a moses basket just because they look so cosy and cute! Also bought a Babasling from Mothercare which arrived this morning and really looks very comfortable and easy to use.

Last Hypnobirthing session tonight, bit sad about it because she is so lovely and has such a calm approach to birth, maybe she would like to come and stay until he arrives...?!

Hello everyone
Well I'm drinking RLT by the gallon, hadn't thought of the 1st Sept thing though it's only next Tuesday, isn't it?

...although if anyone likes the look of that pop up crib, I have just found a more unisex one even cheaper.

oooooh, exciting!

LizLemon we ahve a moses basket that we had dd in upstairs and downstairs, but tbh we didn't bother with it downstairs after the first few weeks, we had one of those fabric bouncy chairs, you know, on a metal frame type thing that she used to nap in (ours had one of those removable head support things, so suitable for newborns), or we would put her on a thick folded towel under her baby gym.

At my mum and dad's house, my mum bought one of these pop up cribs not thhat exact one, but similar on sale price, and dd would use it as her main bed if we stayed over there while she was very wee, or if we went away with them camping. It was dead handy, although perhaps only worth getting if you're having a LO who will be little through the spring and summer.

Morning ladies,

I've not had cramps as such but I wake up every morning with stomach pain, like period pains, but they tend to go once I've got up.

LizLemon I'm also a first timer, but we haven't gone for a moses basket downstairs, but found the chicco polly magic highchair is suitable for newborns and will last until the child is about 2 or 3 as it turns into a chair as well. It's a good price, the same as a 'normal' highchair, kiddicare.com or bambinodirect are cheaper than other places. It's very sturdy and I liked it that the dog can't get to the baby and lick him constantly

Neddie how exciting!! The babies really are on their way now aren't they, oh it's all so lovely!!! <reaches for a tissue to dab eyes>

I've been getting cramps for the past couple of weeks, period type pains and stronger sharper ones too. Occasionally they are fairly close together (maybe three or four in half an hour) but on the whole they're more spread out than that. I've put it down to stretching tbh, although I could be completely wrong . I've been so adamant that I wasn't quite ready to have this baby yet that I've been actively ignoring any potential signs! My sister is coming to stay today for a few days and a friend is coming next week, I'd rather hang on until after then, so I'm doing my head in the sand act. Let us know what your midwife says audrey!

Lizlemon, we never bothered with a crib, we had a moses basket that was moved up or downstairs according to where I was. Do you have a pram/pushchair that has a flat position? That would be fine if you didn't want to pay out for a moses basket on top of everything else. Or you could take the baby upstairs to sleep during the day, although with my pfb I didn't want her out of my sight for too long

Morning everyone!

I've had a few cramps this weekend - a bit like normal period pains, fairly low down. I'm hoping since I'm only 36+3 that it's just like the stretching in the first trimester (that went on for me for about 3 weeks, so maybe I'm just susceptible). Seeing my midwife this week so I'll ask about it too, but let us know what yours says audrey!

had a mysterious burst of energy this weekend if you count filling up a virtual shopping basket at mothercare energetic. Went through all the clothes I've been sent/given so far and realised there wasn't a single newborn bodysuit among them

question for second timers: We've got a crib upstairs obviously, but do we really need a moses basket or something to put him in when we're downstairs? What do we do with him otherwise? Don't want to spend money unnecessarily but can't imagine that we have to hold onto him continuously. Does that seem like the daftest new mum question ever?

hi everyone.

i've been having quick cramps quite often the last 36 hours. not particularly painful. i'm just curious if they mean anything. anyone else having cramping?

we had the most gorgeous picnic dinner last night in the park. it's great to eat and for ds to run around until he was exhausted and fell into bed when we got home.

midwife coming this afternoon so will quiz her on the likelihood of labour sometime this week!

Congratulations LadyEm and welcome Joseph. It all sounds very straightforward... I hope we all end up with similar stories!

I have a clingy 5yo but she's always been a bit that way inclined tbh. We've just been away for the weekend, we never managed a holiday this year due to one thing and another so at least now she's had some fun at the seaside to tell her friends about when she goes back to school. We had a great weekend, hips were sore but it was manageable.

Oh Neddie how exciting! I wonder if there will be any more babies this week?

Hi all
Congrats Ladyem and what a lovely name.
I am off this morning to see consultant before my CS on Thursday.
Hope all are well and not to sickly.

!! DH fixed my blue screen problem and the first thing I read is LadyEm's birth announcement! Congratulations!

Good to be back, have not even managed to lurk! Blue screen down to cookies apparently.

Agreed on the '1st Sept and after'!

Sorry to those who are not feeling great, my books tell of a mysterious energy burst in the last few weeks.....none here, SPD horrible, bump sore, nipples feel like someone is stabbing tiny pins in them ....

Went to look round the Birthing Centre today, was a wake up call for sure 37 weeks today!

Right, off to catch up properly....

Great news Congratulations ladyem!!!

Fabulous news, Ladyem!!

Sob, sniffle, blub

Ooph - my LO is dancing for joy, kicking right into my lungs...

Aww congratulations Ladyem and Welcome to the world Joseph.

Congrats ladyem glad you are both well

CONGRATULATIONS LadyEm, well done you and welcome to the world Joseph!!!

StayFrosty, I'm with you on holding out til 1st September cos of school but after that the quicker he comes the better!!!

pmsl Stealth at 'Lady'... I might do the same come the 1st though, hope it works for you!!!

Congrats Ladyem! Well with the births well and truly underway I think we should get the list going so have made a start.

13th July (due 16th Sep) : Ladylush - a GIRL - 3lb 10oz
22nd August: Ladyem - a Boy - Joseph - 6lb 10 oz

Congratulations Ladyem, and welcome to the world baby Joseph.

rofl @ 'Lady' SPB.

I want my baby to hang on till Sept 1st cos of the school thing, but after that, all bets are off and I want him out asap.

Congratulations
Lovely name, one of our favourites! Take care and enjoy all the cuddles. SO exciting!

Yay for ladyem - so happy that everything went so well and you are home already.

Feel like a weeble today, am all in the front and look like I have a beach ball slipping down my t-shirt - my dh is a lucky man, am so sexy!

Ladyem what fantastic news!! Well done, you!

Congratulations Ladyem!! Fab news and glad it went so well.

Must say I am quite jealous. At 39+ 4 I feel like the baby should be arrving any time soon. Guess I might be late!

The baby has, so far, hung on as my Mum arrives from NZ tomorrow. Then we are on the countdown for 3 weeks. I realy want my Mum here for as mnuch as the after bit as possible.

Had a long walk yesterday, after which I was completely knackered, followed by a spicy burrito. Even had a curry on Friday night. Come on baby....

Congratulations LadyEm - great story and glad you are all well

Here's to more lovely arrivals soon.....

Well the birth pool is arriving this morning - eeeek. Seems all real now....

Well since the first two births have been to 'Lady's, I'm hoping this gets things started

Congratulations LadyEm

congrats ladyem, sounds like a lovely birth.

Yippee! Welcome Joseph and bravo Ladyem!

CONGRATULATIONS Ladyem!! So pleased your birth was uncomplicated and that you're now home.

Gorgeous name btw, but I may just be a little bit biased

Congratulations Ladyem! Good to hear that everything went well

Congrats Ladyem. Hope we all get nice easy births like that.

Congratulations Ladyem! Glad it went so well and so fast

congratulations ladyem so pleased to hear from you excellent birth story glad to hear things went smoothly and that your home already

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT!!

Joseph was born 17.36 fri 21st aug, 6lbs 10oz!!

Wow! I think that all your dilating vibes worked! I had a sweep and pessary at 11.30am, was already 2cm when I arrived, so things were looking good! Contractions started pretty quickly so DH and I had a bit of a walk to get things going, was in the bath by 3pm having painful contractions, G&A by 4pm, wheeled to delivery at 4.55pm as was 5cm, shouting for my epidural , then contractions pretty much on top of each other and out he gushed at 17:36!! Only felt the urge to push for the last 3 contractions, so he pretty much did it himself! Was very intense and fast, but he is gorgeous and so worth it!

We came out this afternoon, so we are snuggled up on the sofa having a feed (so please excuse any typos! Am doing it one handed!)

Thanks so much for all of your well wishes! Hope you are all well and will catch up on the posts I've missed later!

Overdone it a bit today but am making progress and nearly have the bedroom sorted for dh to move the furniture round! Then I get to put my crib up.

Thanks for the messages about toddlers. lad I'm not the only one.
I have to go to the hospital on Thursday but may not tell DD that as she has to stay at home with Grandma.

Gonnabe Midwives can't prescribe anything but the GP can - after 23 weeks of heartburn I finally went six weeks ago and got a prescription for omeprazole and a giant bottle of gaviscon. The relief was incredible. (Sometimes milk made mine worse). Also could have saved myself a fortune

Like lots of you I've been feeling fairly crap over the last week and doing a lot of crying about nothing (feels like the first trimester all over again). Spent yesterday doing bugger all and sleeping and feel almost human today. DH is putting up some shelves and then we can start to sort out the storage for the clothes.

lol at ladygarden comments blue - reminds me I need to book in for that last wax. And a haircut. And maybe a pedicure as well. Just so I can start my years of being covered in posset looking as nice as possible

Still haven't packed bag but a lovely friend gave me one of those evian face sprays, which she said was invaluable, in case anyone wants to add that to their bag.

hope ladyem is just cuddling too much to type...

that's not true - could you go and see your GP instead and get a prescription from them? I had gaviscon prescribed in my last pregnancy which was 4 years ago, and am only having 'peptac' now as they have switched to generic brands to save money at my surgery. Does the same thing though.

Cold water does nothing for me heartburn wise, but in desperation sometimes a small glass of milk or yoghurty type drink can stave it off for a while. I asked for some milk at an Indian restaurant a couple of weeks ago, they thought I was quite mad

I did ask whether I could get anything on prescription for my heartburn, but my midwife, the bloody b*h said that they can't prescribe anything for heartburn in pregnancy and told me sip cold water (WTF!). I really do wish I had killed her and stuffed her body in a cupboard!

Am glad you are feeling so perky fairysparkles and going to take a leaf out of your book mummyhill and go and sort out my stuff - just printed a list of baby centre as incapable of thinking for myself.

My 3 yr old and my 7 yr old are being a bit clingy and lovey dovey but they will get over it!

Right Baby's stuff packed ready in a johnson's baby box. I find it better to have it separate than go rummaging through my stuff just to find a vest, babygro, hat and mittens! Kids stuff packed they have normal clothes, a set of uniform and pj's to take to nan's with them. Just need to sort my stuff out! What do I actually need as opposed to all the nice bits that you don't get round to using and just becomes ballast in the bag?

Morning all - no news from Ladyem then??

Sorry to hear quite a few are feeling pretty shitty now its getting towards the end - I'm starting to feel sick in the mornings again but no where near as bad as the initial morning all day sickness that I had before!

I'm feeling pretty cheery tho - had a trip back home to my parents planned next saturday for me and dd, but I was starting to think I shouldn't go as it's only 3-4 weeks till d day, it's 260 miles away and takes about 5 hours drive - anyway bless my parents, they're going to drive down and meet me half way so we can drive up the rest of the way in convoy just incase anything happens - bless them!! I'm so chuffed tho cos it means I get to go for a nice meal out with my best girlies and have my hair done, back massage and lady garden waxed (Best friend1 is a beauty therapist and best friend2 is a hairdresser )

Oh yeah - gonnab - gaviscon on prescription for my SIL, not suffering yet myself but she gets litre's of the stuff for free in pregnancy!

Have a lovely weekend everyone - I'm joining the 'spend quality time with dd' brigade, she's permanently in front of cbeebies at the mo so I'm going to take her to a little farm later to feed the animals!! Bless her cottons, she's only 19months so doesn't really understand the impending birth like some of your other lo's sound to - not sure if thats a good thing or a bad thing tho??!

Trixievix - I've been so lucky compared with a lot of the rest of the ladies with regards to pg symptoms. Yesterday's heartburn was only a bit unpleasant for about half an hour, but kind of expect things to get worse over the next month as the baby grows bigger. My best friend had it really bad from 22 weeks, so I should keep quiet.

A number of you seem to be feeling bad at the moment - hope that things pick up. I felt generally like crap yesterday, but that was after another poor night's sleep and having chores to do that kept me out of the house a lot of the day. Got a solid four hours(!), plus a couple of two hour spells of sleep last night, so feel right as rain today. No idea how I'll cope with a new born , but hope to be able to walk up the stairs without gasping for breath at least by then (or is that a bit optimistic)...

A friend with a 3 yo and expecting a niece or nephew very soon is finding her DD clingy / "baby-ish", so it's not just siblings, but cousins who seem to need the reassurance.

Blue - and regarding your friend!! I've been assured that we can stay in the local midwife run unit as long as we like, and can even get transferred back there if we need to go into the main hospital in the case of induction, epidural or CS being required, although if they were really busy, it might be a different story. Maternity care seems to be really random.

I'm meant to be online to get a few things sorted, not looking at MN, but was checking on the remote off chance that Mr Ladyem had given us an update (as if they wouldn't have better things to do )

Morning everyone. 36 weeks today and counting down to due date!

I love my little sister. She has just donated a chest of drawers so I finally have somewhere to put the baby's clothes! She has also sent her dh up into the loft to get my crib and my bumbo down so that's nearly all the baby equipment sorted. Just need to get a changing mat and I am ready to go.

Am going to spend this week finishing my jobs off so I can spend a week relaxing before the kids go back to school!

Hi all
I am on Ranitedine tablets and they are excellent. I am starting to get sickly feeling but that's normal towards the end of the pregnancy for me. I also have that horrid taste of chalky yuck back again.
Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday Babies!!!!!!
Come on Ladyem I want to know how it went.
blue76 I hope that I don't have the same at my hospital as your friend- I need cossetting for a few days.

Gonnabamumma - don't you get it on prescription? I have an industrial sized bottle of Peptac (nice) on my bedside table from my doctor. It's been my saviour many a night

I ended up in hospital last night for monitoring, as they are being super-vigilant about pre-eclampsia developing. Thankfully nothing has come of it, and I was home again just after midnight. Luckily DS slept through the whole thing so was unaffected. He did however climb into our bed at around 3am so DP and I had a shocking nights sleep. Haven't the heart to turn him away (DS) - he does it so rarely and it won't be long before it's not just him <guilt>

I wonder if there's any news on LadyEm yet...

Hope you all have a good weekend

Sorry blue, I nearly pmsl at the meadow! I suspect my DH may get slapped in labour too - will be good for them

Had a migraine last night, first one since January (haven't missed that at all!) and was feeling generally knackered and all in - has been the first time that I haven't felt quite right in ages, so can't complain too much.

I am not in the "loose" briggade, am more of the concrete persuasion and therefore very jealous!

Don't know about clingy toddlers but my dog is behaving like a brat - he is so in for a shock when the baby arrives! He keeps wanting to sit on me and the keeps whinging - bad puppy!

I love gaviscon - when I am no longer pregnant, I am going to take the £20+ a week I have been spending on it (since mid Feb!)and take myself off for a nice massage!

Woke up this morning hoping for ladyem thinking it would cheer me up! SO bored with being so huge. Am steadfastly refusing to admit I could be like this for another month.

Loose stools here too (didn't have that last time) and cramps. And yet, no action. Must get out of the house today and do something fun with DD, am starting to feel a bit guilty that this is the very end of it being just her and me (and DH, but you know what I mean).

Hello ladies, wow loads to read up on! I've been avoiding mn for the past few days due to feeling rotten. So wish I'd read through the past few days' posts earlier - most of you have been feeling the same!

Mw not sure if LO is breech or not, so probably going for a scan next thurs/fri to check. They're 'on call' for me from 30th (37 weeks) for the home birth.

BH seem to be regular in the evenings

Loose stools?? Oh yeah! But I do think I prefer that to constipation...better out than in???

Anyone suffering with heartburn and wants a more natural relief than glugging the gaviscon...was on the phone to my pg friend last night and she's been drinking peppermint tea - reckons it works a treat.

Was in the shower yesterday and dp exclaimed, 'Wow, look at your ladygarden! It's more like a meadow! What a big acreage!I could play farmer and harvest it for you if you want??' He got told to --piss off-- go away. Can see him getting slapped when I'm in labour, bless him. He tries to joke to cheer me up but I'm finding it bloody hard to see the funny side of things at the moment.

Wonder if Ladyem is cuddling her LO as I type??

Part of me has come to the conclusion that the loose stools (usually in the eves) are down to a very nervous tummy...

I hope those of you with CTS and SPD are bearing up ok.

Heard a bit of a horror story today. A friend who had CS (3rd DD) had her LO on the tuesday afternoon. They came to her the next morning - she still had her catheter in and drip in her hand, saying, 'Are you ready to go home now?' When she said 'no' they said 'Oh come on, it's your 3rd baby!' OMG - they nagged her for 2 days and on the 3rd day they were downright horried so she ended up coming home. And all because the unit is being reburbished. Fingers crossed I get this home birth!!!

NO news yet?
Glad I'm not the only one with a clingy toddler, DS is fine if I'm not around but has started crying again when I drop him off at nursery, and if he's in with me and DH it's me he wants to be with. Suppose no matter how confident they seem there's some uncertainty, which they don't like!
I've also started with the morning sickness again - really mild, think it's just hunger pangs but did feel like I was going to be sick yesterday Is this a symptom of late pg then?

Hi, I'm with you on the clingy toddlers. Even though ds (2 1/2) has seemed really excited about the baby and talks to her in my belly all the time, he'll just random throw himself on the floor and yell "I want MUMMY" even if I am 1 metre away. I guess it's a huge adjustment for them.

I keep going to bed wondering if it's the last time I'll go to bed pregnant. Not so far!!

Hi all,

Am up late as we live in an area which has loads of students and a house about 3 streets away is having the most enormous party. Really loud music with all the windows open I've called the council who said they will send someone round within an hour, so hopefully they will shut them up.

I too have been 'blessed' with loose stools this week, 38 weeks today and feeling huge and achey, I just want to have the baby now.

DD2 who is my youngest and will be 6 very shortly is very clingy with me. When we popped round to see a friend from NCT and she gave me her newborn to hold for a few minutes DD2 was not impressed. I must admit that none of the girls had shown anything other than mad excitement about 'their baby' until then, so it is worrying me that she might not cope as well as I thought.

Wow re Ladyem, I wonder when we will hear back from her, hopefully she is all snuggled up with her LO by now.

crossed posts trixie. To be honest i think i am just clinging to any little twinge now I am so desperate to get this baby out. I know he/she will come when ready and I should wish bubs to stay in a bit longer as its safest place to be but selfishly I really want my body back

had a hot curry tonight and a whole pineapple yesterday and going for a nice long walk tomorrow (spd permitting) lol

Nitnat, I've had 'soft stools' although not full on diarrohea, but after I've been I feel really drained and not well.

Have also started feeling sick again, like at the beginning of the pg, which is nice

Was hoping for a bit more energy now I have finished work, but feel more crap than ever, it's my own fault for saying how good I felt last week!! Still 37 weeks tomorrow so the end is in sight, just hope I'll get to finish off the little bits and pieces I want done before he gets here!!

Sorry for the moan, feeling a tad fed up at the moment and I shouldn't be as some of you have it far worse than I've got it (SPD, carpel tunnel, awol DH's, etc), so I will give myself a slap and buck my ideas up!!

peachy my dd (2.7) is so overly clingy at the moment it can be unbearable. This week we have been to the park and to soft play and it has taken her around 40 mins on both occasions to go play. She has seemed very wary of other children and not really interacted. It is so strange as she goes to nursery so meets other children all the time and has never been like this before.

Yep Peachygirl DS (2.5) is being VERY clingy. He is waking several times a night and calling out for me, when I answer he just says "I love you". I guess he just wants reassurance I'm there. He's not been like it before now, but we've recently moved house and the baby will be here shortly, so a lot going on for him bless.

We went to see MIL in hospital the other day and DS went to my mum's for the afternoon (mum has had DS for 1 day a week since I went back to work when he was 4 months old, so this is old old routine and he's always been happy there) but this time when I left, he cried solidly until I came back 2 hours later. I think he'd put 2 and 2 together when I said I was going to the hospital (but explained that everything was ok and I was just visiting) and I think he thought 'this is it...' has made me feel terribly guilty, but they're resilliant little monkeys aren't they, so I'm hoping with a bit of reassurance from me and a present from the baby, all should be fine. That's the plan anyhow....

So sorry Mishnu and Nitnat I'm guessing I've jinxed you both with the heartburn....still is it bad I'm pleased someone else has it and it's not just me??? That's awful I know, but I like to share

Wonder how Ladyem is getting on??

Littlecheese - I've been having to rush to the loo and have had period like cramps today and thought maybe it was the start of things. I know I'm a bit early (36+4) but baby is measuring 7lbs 4oz (on scan) so don't think it would be the end of the world if so (touch wood). I am getting to the stage where I'm just fed up, and can't even console myself with junk food like I normally would because of the....yep, you guessed it....HEARTBURN!!!!!

Roll on September

Fingers crossed for Ladyem.

hope everyone is feeling OK, loose bowels or not!!

I'm OK. I feel very tired but other than that generally OK, of course I'm saying this now and it will all come and kick me in the bum when I go back to work

We went to look at tiles and flooring today, for the jobs we are getting done now Dh has got his job.

Is anyone else toddler being quite clingy? I feel DD is even if I go out the room or to another aisle in B and Q.

well i officially feel like poo tonight so drained of all energy its horrible poor dh is having to run round after me.

had a couple of mild cramping pains a lot like period pain earlier this evening which i remember labour starting like last time but nothing has come of them.

TrixieVix - not until you mentioned it Had my first spell of heartburn on getting back from the supermarket, but not too bad and settled after a bit of a sit down.

Nitnat - I think a few people have complained of "soft stools" - could be a pre-labour clear out?

Tigerfeet - DP and I are planning on visiting family over the bank holiday weekend, when I'll be nearly 37 weeks. Didn't occur to me as madness, but will defintitely be taking my notes with me. I'm sure you'll all have a wonderful time. Enjoy the deep - this time last year, DP and I were packing for a diving trip in the Maldives. It'll be a while before we'll get a chance to do something like that

TrixieVix- yep the heartburn has been horrible the last week or so. I am hoping that once baby drops I will feel better.

Has anyone else been having upset tummy? For the last week I have had terrible diarrohea, I know gross!!!

Thinking of you today Ladyem

I hope the coldy and fluey people are feeling better soon

We'll have more babies by this time next week how exciting

I've had an incredibly productive week. All the newborn and 0-3 stuff is laundered. Baby's bag is packed. Mine is on the way. Only a few odd bits to buy and nothing that would be essential before the birth (assuming bf goes well). My friend who lives on the other side of the country has a few of my bits and pieces, she's coming over with them in a few days. It'll be lovely to see her and hopefully her dc's will entertain dd . My sister is coming to stay for a few days next week too.

In a moment of madness we booked a weekend away last nigh , tomorrow morning we'll drive to Bridlington (dd wants to fish off the harbour wall with dh), then we'll spend the night in Hull and go to The Deep on Sunday. At 37 weeks this is probably madness but we haven't had the opportunity to do anything like this for ages and this will be our last chance for a while. Fingers crossed baby stays put . I have packed my notes, baby's bag and a few bits and pieces I'll need if I do end up going into labour, just in case.

Hoping all's going well for Ladyem today. I have flu (though not, according to the midwife I spoke to, of the swine variety) and am lying like a very large lump on the sofa while DD surveys the entire oeuvre of Walt Disney.

Hi all - hope everyone is well today.

Ladyem - hope everything is going well for you. Thinking about you today.

Well, I had my growth scan yesterday (after measuring 39 weeks at 35). Baby is slightly above average, but not dangerously so...baby is guesstimated at 7lbs 4oz now (36 weeks) and is on the 90th percentile, but if it continues, will only be about 9lbs 4oz at term (DS was 9lbs 3oz at term, so was expecting another biggun').

Apart from that, everything looked well. We resisted the urge to find out the baby's sex, but am now less convinced that it's a boy (was convinced up until now) because was expecting the baby to be a lot bigger now if it was a boy if you see what I mean?!!

My bag is packed and DS's present from the baby is all wrapped and card bought ready for when we know what name/flavour the baby is, so feeling very relieved and stress free at the moment! Have only got a week left at work (but am working from home anyway) and then is REEEELAXXX for 2 weeks! My sister is due to move back from NYC on the 14th September (the day before my due date) and part of me hopes the baby will hang on for her.

The nursery is all done apart from the drawers which we're picking up from M&P tomorrow.

That's about it from my end - another me me me post.

Is anyone else suffering badly from heartburn? It's driving me insane!!!!

that is a brilliant present. i'm going for reflexology again tomorrow and am so excited. origianlly the lady was all booked out, but she just rang as she had a cancellation - it made my day!

YAY! I finished work today!!! Can't believe it's come round so quickly now. Work bought me a lovely cot mobile and a voucher for a great place that does maternity massage and reflexology so can't wait to give that a go.

Hope Ladyem is ok.

lol minshu, my blocks of green and blacks regularly disappear - must be mice!

oooh, getting so excited for all the impending babies. can't wait!!!

Less than a week now, Neddie!! with tummy full of babies and butterflies Hope your cold clears, and that other symptoms go v soon after the arrival.

The box of chocolates that DP bought me appears to have had a hole in it - why else would there be none left already? [chocolatey-mouthed emoticon]

Afternoon all. Had a lovely meal out with DP last night - ate far too much Then had another bad night's sleep, funnily enough...

Tigerfeet - I've felt like the inside of my lower right ribs were bruised after some serious activity about a week ago. Still hurts, but less "raw" now. Hope baby doesn't do it again - can't have been very comfy for her, either.

No experience, JRocks - just wishing you well.

Hope BadFrosty gets himself sorted soon, StayFrosty. Keep positive - you'll have him, DD and new baby all together pretty soon and this period will be just a memory (you may even miss the peace and quiet!).

Wonder how Ladyem is doing? Not heard from MumGoneCrazy for a while, I don't think?

Thinking of you LadyEm!!!

Neddie hope you feel better in time for your CS!!

Good luck LadyEm!

HI all
Sorry that some of you are experiencing carpal tunnel. I have it in my right hand but not too bad compared with all the other symptoms.
Good luck ladyem hope all goes well with your induction.
I have a slight cold at the moment so I hope that it will not interfere with CS on Thursday.
Butterflies are going mad in my tummy with anticipation.
ps I love Muse Bratnav but think going to see them on due date might be quite exciting . I can see the headlines now.......

good luck LadyEm, can't wait to hear

Just a quick one to wish Ladyem a speedy induction and hope that all goes well. Looking forward to hearing your news x

Hi guys, been away for a while, only been able to get on the internet via my phone

Will try and catch up with the thread and everyones news now. My update is that we are off to see Muse on my due date and I got measured at the mw, 44cm at 37 weeks I have to go and see the consultant next week, I really hope this doesn't affect my home birth plans.

Hi Ladies! Thanks so much for all the well wishes and dilating vibes!! I think I have everything packed and ready to go! even wrapped DDs present from the baby and have a card ready to write when we know the sex and name of the baby!!

Am getting quite nervous now and have been having braxton hicks all afternoon and evening - think its the stress of tomorrow!!

My Mum and her partner are here and stopping to look after DD until I am out of hospital and they are great! Quite that I might not see DD for 3 or 4 days if it takes a while, but I know that she will be well looked after and probably not miss me at all!!

Anyway, I'll post as soon as I can when I'm out of hospital. Keep well, everyone and lots of hugs! xxx

JRocks - I've had GD since very early on. I'm on tablets and then insulin which is why I'm being induced early. Normally because of the medication they would do it at 38 wks but my blood sugar control has been good, baby looks good so they are leaving me until 39 wks. She is measuring a wk ahead which isn't bad.

If you have it a low sugar (which means low carbs) diet will slow the baby's growth down. You'd have to monitor blood sugars to see if diet is enough. Later on they will keep an eye on the whether the placenta is doing its job as that can deteriorate faster than normal.

I would have thought that a weight estimate would be hard to do with all the extra fluid around so that might not be accurate. Plus lots of ladies have big babies without having GD. Are they rescanning at some stage to have a comparison?

Oops, meant to say thanks Stealth too!

Thanks bexaa, sorry you're having to go through this too, but it's nice not to be alone!

I need to speak to my midwife but she was off today, so might be able to get hold of her tomorrow. I have a feeling nothing will be said or done until results from GTT some back and they know what if anything we're dealing with. The sonographer thought I might have another scan in a couple of weeks, but the thought of rhis all getting out of control terrifies me. I'm quite a small narrow hipped person and am worried the baby will be too big to deliver.

moan moan moan

ps Hello everyone, I hope everyones buns have been cooking nicely in the oven.

Hello Jrocks, I also have polyhydramnios. I found out at 28 weeks when I was measuring 36 weeks so my midwife sent me for a growth scan, at that point baby was approx 4 pounds. I had another scan at 31 weeks and my water had gone back to a normal level, I had another scan at 36 weeks (last week) and my fluid was excessive again so now I cannot have a home birth. I don't know how much has been explained to you about the water issue, I was given a blood test but this ruled out gestational diabetes and then I was offered a test called TORCH which checks for things like german measles, toxoplasmosis (fortunatley mine was negative) - I am led to believe positive results for the TORCH tests are quite rare. My midwife has been very reassuring and advised me that 70% of polyhydramnios are due to unknown reasons and it's just more water than usual. Do you have another growth scan soon? I have another one tomorrow. My midwife said to me today that this baby feels like a big one (at my last scan baby was approx 6 pnds 13 ounces).

Hey fellow babyladies

Happy birthday Minshu!

Sending some last minute vibes to Ladyem I am so excited for you! This time tomorrow you could well have your LO in your arms, grr, I am quite quite , I could well go for a lovely newborn cuddle and headsniff.

People will prob think I am employed to advertise osteopathy, but all you ones with CTS, I have heard great things about it working for that as well as SPD, in fact the toddler group lady who recommended I start going initially went cos of CTS.

My belly is going crazy, it is like LO is trying to burst out bum first. I had some mates round last night, they were freaking out talking to me, they found it highly diverting.

No word on BadFrosty's return, he is still in Mongolia having only just made it to a domestic airstrip he will set about trying to get home tomorrow morning. He seemed quite aggrieved that I lacked sympathy for his travails.

Dd is still at my mum and dad's having a whale of a time apparently. I am really missing her the lady across the road is a childminder, and I felt v sad listening to all the toddlers getting dropped off this morning.

But not long now. I guess I should just be resting while I can and enjoying thie peace.

Stealth I've done the survey.
As TrixieBeldon's physio said my CTS went in about 2 weeks after giving birth.

afraid not JR but hope everything is OK.
You are nearly done

Hi ladies, hope you're all ok?

I had a growth scan this afternoon. My baby is large and I have polyhydramnios, so on Monday have to go and do the glucose tolerance test thing to see if i have gestational diabetes. The scan suggested the baby is already around 7lb, which is fairly terrifying at 35 weeks!

I just want this all to go quickly (and safely) now. Does anyone else have any experience with any of this?

I have just worked my last Thursday
4 working days to go!
I had an arthritic type pain in my finger the other day - could that be CTS? obv very mild as it's gone now.

Blimey the activity on this thread has really picked up since some of us finished work. Anyone'd think we had time to sit on our arses all day MNing

Mummyhill I had CTS last time, it disappeared within a couple of weeks of the birth iirc. My hands and feet were quite swollen towards the end of the pg and as the swelling went down after the birth, the symptoms disappeared.

Happy birthday Minshu Sorry things at work are difficult.

Ow ow ow the baby is trying to claw her way out of the top of my stomach alien style. It's a very strange sensation. I don't remember dd doing that at all. There's one spot where she pushes me with a foot that really hurts. I wonder if she's bruised me internally with her shenanigans???

<<dilating vibes to LadyEm>>

DD is also watching far too much tv . We managed a trip to the park this afternoon though so I'm feeling quite pleased with myself even though we had to drive there as I can't walk that far any more.

mummyhill - my carpal tunnel came on at 34 weeks, never had it before, and within a week my right hand was so swollen it looked gangrenous. Lovely. The physio I saw said that pg carpal tunnel usually clears up within a week or two of delivery, sometimes sooner, and the later in pregnancy it develops, the faster it usually abates. Wearing wrist splints (especially at night) has helped me a lot, as has alternating ice and heat. No real pain now, just numbness. Tolerable. Hope yours stays pins-and-needley; it means it's not as severe, or so the physio told me.

Ohh and thanks for the info about capal tunnel peachygirl. Will it go after the baby is born do you think? I am dreading it hanging round afterwards as I have friends who have had to have surgery for it and it was really painful and incapacitated them for ages!

This one is due about 13 days after my birthday which is better than last time as DS was actually due on my 30th birthday I was quite pleased when he arrived 16 days late as he doesn't share his birthday with anyone else in the family. Wondering if this little one will manage to squeeze in with a birthday of her own we have about 10 family birthdays in September already.

Happy birthday minshu

I've had pain in the right hand side of my groin too. Baby's been lying over that way for a few weeks (I only have a couple of stretch marks but they're on that side too) so I presumed it was down to him in some way. It feels as if I've done an 8 mile country hike.

Managed to get the time wrong of my local 'meet the midwife' thing where I'm supposed to meet the rest of the team. Turned up as they were finishing and they were all so nice, I had to have a bit of a cry. Felt terribly embarrassed. Do wish I could stop crying at the drop of a hat....

Also leaning towards a home birth but we'll see how we go on the day.

Fingers crossed for you for tomorrow ladyem

Happy birthday minshu,

Yes the carpel tunnel is like pins and needles. I haven't had it constantly this time but when I drive the car I get very bad pins and needles in my right hand, almost enough to make it go numb. DH doesn't drive so I have no respite in this area

I have been having the shooting pain in my groin too on the right hand side. You have worried me saying the baby could be engaging I'm only 34+2!! I did mention this to the midwife and she said it was probably ligaments But it's not like a muscular pain. I had put it down to constipation.

Baby is lying on the right though so this could be why no left hand pain or pins and needles

I've been getting leg pain too, not all the time and nowhere near my pelvis , mainly in my calf, it comes and goes and is sometimes all down my leg. I had a wobble last night about DVT. but i have no swelling so am trying to be calm.
I'm seeing the consultant again a week today so I will ask her about all this.

Good grief I sound like a moaning Minnie!

My mum and dad have been here and it has been nice. Dh and I went out twice for dinner and a film and we did lots in the garden.

I am in the same boat as those with toddlers also watching a fair bit of telly here. We are currently loving 'show me show me'. We do try to get out and about though even just a trip to the supermarket.
I'm finding it hard that DD is very active and boistrous and she tries to leap on me when I am lying down.

Thank you for the birthday wishes! Had a very chocolatey day, so far. Been shopping and got a few bits and pieces, but had my heart set on some new boots as a pressie from DP, but not seen "the ones" yet. Might have time for another look tomorrow, if I have the energy...

Trying not to think about work today, although DP is there and suffering (probably better than shoe shopping with me, though). My position is being taken over by a combination of a team member and another manager, but worried that the pair of them could be left high and dry as things are likely to continue to get worse.

Having my first cup of RLT - not too bad. Real tea goes better with chocolate though.

So, that makes 4 babies before the end of the month? I'll get some waterproof mascara to see me through the birth announcements. I've still got a month left!

And aren't there a few of you with babies due around your own birthdays?

Wishing you all the best, Ladyem! And well done on that 7 straight hours sleep and a lie-in! More dilating vibes coming your way.

Oooh - so a few of us then...am feeling quite nervous about it but am hoping for a straightforward birth like dd's. Fortunately dh is being supportive (although a little apprehensive about the mess!) and I think once the pool gets here it will seem really real. Have researched it a lot, and while am keeping an open mind about the whole thing, would love a very relaxed, calm time at home with the luxury of getting into my own bath and bed at the end of it

detox, due on the 9th and having a home birth too.

mummyhill - sounds agonising, you poor thing.

LittleCheese - loose stools are often a sign of imminent labour...hope that's the case for you. I did indeed get examined internally from about 37 weeks last time round, but it never gave me any good news. I was never dilated or effaced. Though I did get my lovely hippie-ish midwife (who shared my care with an OB) closing her eyes rapturously and murmuring, "You have such a great uterus." Um, thanks?

Ladyem - better late than never, except not all THAT much better. How totally frustrating that they never got your other referrals. You're calmer about that than I would be. Good luck for tomorrow!

HBD minshu !

TickListQueen - that timing could be ideal, actually. If induction takes 12ish hours, you'll be done in the morning, then you'll have all day for the paediatrician et al. to do their tests before they leave for the day, and you could well be home that evening. Fingers crossed for you.

Stabbing pains here too. Not much room in there for the baby to move round so anytime he tries something especially ambitious I howl.

CBeebies blaring constantly as well. I have a cold and am worn the hell out. I refuse to feel guilty.

LadyEm, you are hardcore!! Working that close!! I would have worked a bit longer if I hadn't been so ridiculously tired and didn't have to travel quite so far to work, I realised it was a good time to finish when I drove straight past the exit on the motorway, and the next one and then had to get off miles away!!

Detoxdiva, I'm having a home birth too, and there are a couple of others who are as well. My TENS machine arrived today (I'm 36+5), which is very exciting!! Not going for a water birth though as our house is quite small and didn't think one would fit without the neighbours all getting a good view of proceedings

there are lots of HB planners on this thread . I wish I could join you all but DH panics at the thought - I'm planning a sneaky HB - i.e. give birth before we've had time to get to the hospital!

Hi.

I've been missing off this thread for a long while now and am using my newly started maternity leave to catch up...

Have had a quick scan through the posts - my sympathies to all you ladies with SPD. Hope your babies arrive soon.

I am 37+1 and due on the 9th - hopefully at home using the pool that's arriving this weekend....anyone else planning a home birth that would like to hold hands with me...?

ladyem maybe i should be greatful that my physio took a hands off approach then if you ended up in a lot of pain from manipulation. Im definately sending dilating vibes your way.

I just found out that in america from 37 weeks a lot of women have internal examination to see if they are dilating. I'd rather go without the examination but would love to know if i was at all dilated.

Fairysparkles glad your dd is watching cbeebies too I dont feel as bad now, she actually really enjoys watching tv which i think bothers me more than me putting her infront of it.

sprinkle and babylady its reassuring that you are also getting the stabbing pains, fingers crossed it means labour is coming sooner rather than later. To be honest i do sometimes get pains that feel like baby is trying to claw its way out.

I have monday and tuesday next week left at work and thats it. My work friends think im crazy working until im 38 + 3. To be honest I would have worked till 39 + 3 if they had let me but as baby is due on a saturday my mat leave has to start sunday before due date

Happy Birthday Minshu!!

Sorry for all those SPD sufferers. Hopefully yours is closely at an end Ladyem. Good, good luck for tomorrow. Sending lots of good vibes your way!!

I have been getting a few stabbing pains both in fanjo area and on one side of my groin. Baby is engaged but I do feel like my bump has got a bit lower so maybe it is the baby dropping further into my pelvis?

Saw the doctor today for usual weekly check up. He was happy with everything so now just waiting, waiting......

Lovely ladies - loving maternity leave. Have done so many jobs that I have been putting off, including arranging for the oven to the cleaned, boiler service, all the ironing and am off in a min to join the library.

Turned over in the night and got a shooting pain in the right side of my groin - thought I was going into labour, but think it was the baby dropping, as my bump seems to be a lot lower today. Was like someone stuck a knife in me! (such a drama queen

Have to whip DH into gear to finish off building the cot, just in case little baby decides not to wait until due date - think it will, but he doesn't have to know that!

Happy Birthday Minshu and sorry so many of you ladies are suffering with SPD - is pants

Good luck LadyEm, sending you lots of positive and dilating thoughts, can't believe that babies are actually coming now, I know we have ladylush's DD but she is a special exception!! This time next month most of us will have our LO's!!! How exciting!!

Oh mummyhill that sounds awful, poor you

LittleCheese, I've been getting the stabbing pains too! as there's 2 of us getting it (at least) then I'm hopeful that it's just babies and bodies getting ready!! Not long now

Although I finished work on Friday this is the first day that I've not got anything to do, have been ordered by DH to not do anything and just relax all day, which sounds heaven but I feel a bit lazy and keep thinking of all the things I still have to do like cleaning and tidying!! Still, I will make a valiant effort to not do anything today and will start the nesting tomorrow

Oooo - ladyem - cross posted!! I am indeed sending strong dilating vibes your way!! GOOD LUCK!!

Phew - what a mega catch up I've had to do!!

Happy Birthday Minshu [simle]

Mummyhill - bless you having a shitty day already!! Try and put your feet up for the afternoon!

My SPD is really pissing me off now - 35+2 now so I seem to have much longer left than most of you! - Ladyem - can't believe your being induced tomorrow - so jealous!!

Stealth your labour plan sounds just like mine!! hee hee - infact, anyone familiar with the 'cosmic ordering service'?? - I've placed a very specific order for me to go into labour next thurs so watch this space!!

Littlecheese - don't feel guilty about sitting dc in front of cbeebies - my dd is permanently in front of it at the moment, after all - what did God invent it for!!!

ticklistqueen - yay, that means only 7 days to go!! It does make it all seem real when you know when it is happening! I have had my last lie-in in my own bed this morning!! That seems weird! I have to go in between 8 and 9am, so it is a bit of an odd time you have to go in, but hopefully they'll just induce and then you can sleep until something happens, where as I have to find stuff to occupy myself and DH until it all happens!! Am bouncing on my birthing ball in the hope that I will manage to dilate enough for them to break my waters and not have to bother with the pessaries!!

Mishnu - Happy Birthday!! Hope you are having a lovely day!!

Thanks, everyone, for the messages of good luck!! I am getting very excited, but also quite nervous as I'm not sure how it is all going to go, but am assured it will all be over with my Sunday, so fingers crossed it all goes smoothly and quickly!! Think dilating thoughts for me!!

Physio was good for the advice re labour positions, and the crutches are helping, but as regards to pain it is worse today as she had to manipulate my pelvis to examine me so I think it has aggravated it all. Was agony yesterday evening, but I did get a full nights sleep thanks to her advice on how to position my back for sleeping - ie make sure that I put something in the small of my back to support it. Got a full 7 hours without waking up! Lovely!

OWWWWWWWWwwwwwwwwwww

Ahh that's better. Had to go and have a blood test done to check my thyroid levels as they had increased my meds. Had to walk there and back on the crutches with the kids playing up as well not a fun trip and my hips and lower back are now in pieces combined with a braxton hicks for good measure due tot eh fact that I just over did things a little. Ohh and I have had a letter from the hospital to say that tests were inconclusive on the sample the midwife sent off as she found protein in my sample so have had to drop another one into the gp this morning so now have to wait and see if some of the pain/discomfort is actually down to a uti and if so hope we can get it cleared up before I go into labor!

oops

ticklistqueen how exciting, although i also think its rather odd that your going in so late but as long as you can see the advantages thats the main thing. Hope it all goes smoothly for you.

Im being a rubbish mum this morn and dd is sat infront of cbeebies I just have no energy to do anything, we are going for a picnic later though so hopefully that will make up for my uselessness this morning

happy birthday Minshu hope you have a lovely day. My birthday isn't that far off but i'd almost forgotten all about it with baby things on my mind

ticklistqueen how exciting, although i also think its rather odd that your going in so late but as long as you can see the advantages thats the main thing. Hope it all goes smoothly for you.

Im being a rubbish mum this morn and dd is sat infront of cbeebies I just have no energy to do anything, we are going for a picnic later though so hopefully that will make up for my uselessness this morning

happy birthday Minshu hope you have a lovely day. My birthday isn't that far off but i'd almost forgotten all about it with baby things on my mind

Happy Birthday Minshu

Happy Birthday to you
Happy Birthday to you
Happy Birthday to Minshu
Happy Birthday to you.

Morning everyone.

Thanks for the nice gentle prod will start packing later today whilst the kids are out with Gran.

I'm all booked in. Being induced on the 27th but don't report in to the hospital until 7.30pm. I assumed I'd go in first thing in the morning and planned to get it over and done with during the day. Guess it will be a long sleepless night - the first of many. Still saves DH and Mum (who will have DS) from wasting an extra day off work.

Feeling quite nervous now, its all of a sudden real and I have barely thought about the actual delivery.

My bowels did a major unload in the couple of days prior to my waters breaking with DS. Guess that wont happen this time round . Might start eating kiwifruit.

Good luck for Friday Ladyem. Better late than never with the physio.

SoS thats exactly what my stomach ache is like only releaved by going to the toilet.
Stealth I do wish baby was on its way but think its prob as sos suggests and body expelling things ready.

I'm having loads of stabbing type pains down below too so really hopeful abby is getting ready.

Ladyem glad you finally got your appointment through, even though its so late im glad you have a bit more info on birthing positions. My physio was a little pointless really i was told it was very hands off given a belt (which makes it worse) and some exercises. Good luck for friday im so jealous that you will have your little baby in your arms so soon

Happy birthday for tomorrow Minshu, try not to worry about work, there's only so much you can do and you have to focus on you and the baby now, I'm sure it must be hard finishing at a time when you feel they really need you though.

Wow, I didn't realise how many of us were due on the 12th!! It will be a race won't it!??

I'm really sorry for those of you who are feeling fed up and in pain with the various ailments (SPD, carpal tunnel, etc) for the first time in ages though I actually feel pretty good, although still very tired I just can't wait for him to come now!!! Still feel that there's lots of cleaning and stuff to do round the house though, although everything to do for the birth and him being here is done, just everything else, lol!!!

Mummyhill, come on you can do it, get those bags packed and you'll feel much better (is that gentle enough??)

LittleCheese, I've not noticed any extra wind (although it's been pretty forceful all the way through, lol) but I have been getting soft stools and at times a tender tummy, sometimes really bad cramps that are only relieved after I've been to the toilet (sorry for the TMI)which aren't pleasant at all, I just presumed it was my body making extra room and expelling anything it didn't need ready for birth, but don't actually know!!

hi everyone
Minshu, arrgh tea meeting, i shuld probably organise one....no, it's too late and I can't be bothered, I'll just pretend I didn't read that bit Sorry you have left with so much uncertainty I think it's usual to feel that at normal times, so it must be worse when there's change coming I assume they have someone covering you?
LC - could your baby be on its way?
Ladyem, can't believe you had your appointment with so little time left - did you feel it was useful?
New thread anyone? We're well over 800 posts!
Is there anyone else being induced / CS in the next few days?

Gonnab and sprinkle - glad the appointments went well and that the babies are now heading in the right direction!

mummyhill - sounds like you had a blissful holiday!

mishnu - Happy birthday for tomorrow!

Well, I got a phone call at 9am this morning offering me an appointment with the physio!!! Only 3 months late! So I said that yes, I would like to come in to ask some questions re labour positions etc, but that I was being induced in TWO DAYS, so would it be worth it? Anyway, they said that, yes, they wanted to see me so down I rush, dropping DD with my Dad on the way. She said that my SPD was very severe and that she wished she's have been able to see me earlier. Apparently, they never got the first 2 referrals!! So anyway, to cut a very long and rambling story short I now have crutches and the choice of 2 labour positions - sitting back or leaning over the bed. All the others are out (ie squatting, lying on side etc) as they'd cause me too much pain, unless I have an epidural (another good excuse to have one! ).

So after all of that I spent the afternoon at my Dad's sitting in his garden, eating choc-ices, while he ran after DD!!! Bliss!!!

babylady im so jealous that your 39 weeks im 37 + 4 and still feel like I have an age left im so impatient and just want to meet him/her now I want to know what my baby is and get to grips with breast feeding etc. DH and DD are also very impatient.

I worked out earlier that the maximum i could be pregnant for now is 31 days i think which just seems soooooooooo long away

sorry im about to give tmi but need reasurance this is normal, for about a week now I have had a very adjitated stomach with a hell of a lot of wind and "soft stools"(as the medical profession like to put it) Is this normal in late pregnancy? I dont remember it with DD

I'm another one at 36 +4 - wonder which one of u will pop first! Had MW app today and all fine. Baby still the right way down and just on the brim of pelvis.

Finish work on Friday thank god! My team kindly asked me what I would like for a pressie which was nice so have asked (graciously) for the Fisher Price Rainforest Cot Mobile which has really good reviews.

Happy Birthday for tomorrow Minshu!

Lol at the ladies planning their labours. I am starting to get very impatient now. There are only 2 left in my ante-natal group now. My mum wants me to hang on until she arrives from NZ but I would quite like it to be early. I am only sitting around eating which doesn't bode well for the size of the baby (or me afterward!!).

Gonna, glad you had a better experience with the midwife. Only fair that you should get a nice one after how much shite you went through with the other witch.

Mummyhill, your holiday sounds lovely. Just what you need leading up to what will be a hectic time for us all.

Glad your day is better StayFrosty, any news on NaughtyFrosty's ETA?

Great news for you Sprinkle re turning bubs..

Have been holed up inside today, other than a quick trip this morning to have the long awaited wax of LG. I am 39 weeks today so figure regrowth in the next 2 weeks or so shouldn't be too bad. Lady asked if I wanted it all off and I was like, erm no thanks. Maybe that is what most pregnant ladies get?

I was talking to someone a few weeks ago who told me that three out of her four came on their due dates (natural births)!!!

Stealth, Tigerfeet - your plans sound perfect - nothing can interfere with such a well thought out schedule.

Not sure how, but I managed to miss out on reading loads of posts last night - sorry you had such a bad day, StayFrosty - hope you have had better today.

Glad today is over. Had my last team meeting before going on leave, and nearly cried at the end. Had wanted to be leaving on a better note, but there's been bad news recently and uncertainty about what's coming next, so feel like I've let them down. Four days off, then just the first half of next week to cope with. It's my birthday tomorrow, so retail therapy for both me and baby will take my mind off things

Not quite as hot up here, but muggy this afternoon - pmsl about the dog trying to cool down with your feet, Gonnabeamumma.

My baby can't come until we have a carpet in her room. And we've been given so much pink stuff now, that if the scan misled us, we'll have to consider gender reassignment

my due date is 9/9/09, but aiming for a 1 September baby. I've had words with her you see. She is also instructed to be born just after midnight after a 2.5 hour labour while ds sleeps through all the noise and people shuffling about. Hopefully she is a cooperative kind of baby.

Just went for ice cream - the only solution in this scorching weather.

I don't know I pop off to the coast with the kids for a few days and have to catch up on 6 pages!

Had a lovely time in Wales. Spent the first day on shell island. Kids loved it in and out of the sea with dad and nan hunting in the rock pools etc whilst grandad and I sat relaxing in our deckchairs. Stayed in a lovely B&B had a scrummy breakfast then spent the morning in Barmouth crab fishing, more rock pooling and mooching round the town. Fish and chips for lunch then we went off to a kids farm where the kids ran DH and the grandparents ragged whilst I just sat and watched them. No way was I going anywhere near sheep and goats! Came home to brum via Conwy and Chester. Meant to stop off and have tea in Conwy but had forgotten that even in tourist areas a lot of the shops etc close earlier than at home. Most of the restaurants were closed and most of the pubs didn't do food so we ended up with sandwiches and crisps from the sparr as it was the only place open!

Is carpal tunnel like having pins and needles constantly in your hands? If so will it go after I have had the baby? I am finding it relativley manageable atm but it is irritatiing. I thought at first that it was because of the crutches but even on a good/lazy day when I don't need to use them I still have the pins and needles/numbness.

Trixie - Our hospital won't let you take anything in that needs to be plugged in even if it is brand new as it hasn't been safety checked and if it caused a fuse or something to blow it would be a nightmare so I now have to make sure anything I want to take with me has a fully charged battery in it thanks for the reminder.

Frosty I hope your hubby can make a start for home soon on your behalf with the race organisers and their admin cock up which has caused the delay.

31 days to go for me and I still need to pack bags. Someone please gently encourage me to get organised cause if you kick me up the bum too hard I will be in agony with my pelvis!

Gona - glad the appointment went well

Scorchio! Loving the sunshine, am sitting under my umbrella in the back garden drinking iced water (pretending it is pimms), with my feet in a bucket of cold water (dog keeps trying to get in - too hot for my pooch)

36 weeks today and went for my long awaited hospital appointment to see a competent midwife. 1.5 hr wait for the appointment was rewarded by a really nice one, who told me (dun dun duuuuuuunnnnnnn) that the baby is lying headdown, spine along the front of my tummy on the left. She also said I am "all baby" and it is a really easy bump to feel! So take that stupid GP midwife! She also said I might be smart to buy 2 sizes of babgrows as (gulp) she said it feels like a long one - not too as have mentioned I am 6'1 and DH is 6'5 - but eek anyway! Am not engaged, but on the way to being, and she said that providing everything carries on the way it has, am a good candidate for the birth centre (yay!)

Sorry everyone else is feeling the heat a bit too much!!

Also, bigbang, will check my emails and get back to you.

oooh SoS you're 36+4 as well - loads of us due on the 12th! I can't wait!

pmsl - you are just so flexible - me too, it can be a Thursday or a Friday as those are his nursery days. I really don't mind (although Friday preferable...although that would be the 11th September wouldn't it? )
Hadn't thought of 09/09/09, wonder how many of those we'll get on this thread!

I hope you're feeling better StayFrosty, what horrible bin men, but what a lovely neighbour!!

Minshu, not long now until maternity leave, not nice to have to do proper 'work' things like that though before you go!! Good to know that I've inspired you, it really does feel good!!!

TigerFeet I am completely with you as although also don't consider myself as a control freak (although DH may beg to differ ) I don't like the not knowing when it will happen, would be just happy to know which week, not necessarily which day, but 5 weeks does feel like a bloody long time away!!

I'm 36+4 now and went to see MW today, baby has turned (YAY, all that lying with my bum in the air paid off!!) and is now head down and 'on his way' but not engaged, just on the brim apparently So nitnat don't worry this is my first and he's still not engaged, I'm sure they'll do it when they're ready, I just hope it's not a sign that he'll be overdue!!

Although I still have to be signed off by the consultant next Wednesday the MW can't see any medical reason why I won't be allowed a home birth so she's going to bring the birth box round on Tuesday, I'm so excited now, feeling quite real and I can't wait!!!

Ooooh I love a good Plan

Mine would be somewhat similar. Labour will start in the earlyish morning of one of the weekdays of W/C 7th September. DD will have then been back at school for a couple of days the preceding week and will be nicely settled. We can drop her off at school, which is a 5 min drive from the hospital (that's so convenient that it would be mad not to be able to take advantage of it), I will deliver before lunch, GP's will have plenty of time for their two hour drive to get here to collect dd from school, and dh, dd2 and I will be home in time for tea.

Simples.

I am prepared to be flexible. I don't mind which day of that week it is. A birth date of 09/09/09 would be good though. Even I might remember that and stop looking like a complete fule every time I'm asked dd's birth date and I have to scrape around my brain for it.

<places booking>

ah mine will be good and come on its due date, or a suitable day in the preceding week.
BTW I am waking up to some pains which quickly get bad, dropping DS off at nursery at the usual time, going to hospital (nursery is on the way), giving birth, cuddle, feed, shower, photos, and back home for tea, picking DS up on the way
What could possibly go wrong with my plan?

I'm not usually a control freak (probably ) but it's driving me a bit mental, this not knowing..... when??? Next week??? Next month???? Six weeks?????? Arghhhhhhhhhh <head spins round>

I keep thinking that TigerFeet - we are in our 37th week which seems so far on (and according to my boots planner we are at term ) but then it could be just under 6 weeks before any baby - that seems like a very long time!

no, wasn't sure how big it would come out on the screen but they are tiny -take my word for it! Might take a photo of one against a 2p coin and put it on my profile!

That's you at term then audrey I'm a couple of days behind you - 36+4. I'm really not sure I can stand another three or so weeks of this. It could even be five or six weeks before this baby comes [sob]

I'm so tired, I could really do with a kip, but dd is well past napping age and is playing in the garden complete with paddling pool so I really need to keep an eye on her. Perhaps I ought to switch the laptop off, it's chucking a lot of heat out onto my knees. Not helping. I'm enjoying sitting on my arse and having a good old lurk around the boards though.

ah the wee socks, so sweet hanging on the line. stealth, don't think they're that small though!

am going to try hibernate from the heat today although ds not sounding like going to sleep sadly, so might be a long afternoon.

am 37 weeks today, really hoping not to get to 40!

When dd was first born her feet seemed enormous in comparison to the rest of her, with really long prehensile toes. We called her Monkeyfeet for a while

The socks I've unearthed aren't quite that small, but they're not far off.

yes we were given some socks that he never actually wore - I'm sure they must be doll socks as his feet were never that tiny!

Like this

________________________________


________________________________

seriously!

I freely admit that I am being a miserable cow today thanks to the weather. Thankfully dd is in an angelic mood and is being really easy to look after today. She's mostly entertaining herself outside in the garden or watching telly.

Antenatal appt this morning - all fine, no problems at all. The MW suggested I might want to get my birth plan sorted . I have managed to start packing bags.

Not sure if it's nesting or sheer blind panic but I have been frantically washing tiny clothes, blankets etc for the past couple of days so I can get them dry before the weather breaks. The socks in particular are so very teeny. I had a bit of a hormonal moment over a little newborn babygro... I had forgotten how small newborns actually are.

StayFrosty I hope your dh gets home soon.

Good luck for friday LJ29

[melts grumpily]

Almost cried when I saw how hot it was going to be today!! Although the office is air conditioned, I'm off for a meeting this afternoon where there's no air conditioning - grrrrr!!! Not happy. Only 2 more weeks of work to go and thankfully on a couple of those days, I have antenatal appointments (and a bank holiday - yay!!)

I was told at my 34 week scan last week that baby had moved south (or heading towards the light as I like to say), but not engaged yet. I've read somewhere that for first timers, they usually start the engaging process around 36 weeks.

I definitely second lying around all day and not moving (with a giant fan close by....)

Hello everyone,
Had antenatal appointment yest and heard the lovely heartbeat Baby still measuring a week ahead of dates and even though he/she is still head down he/she has not engaged yet. When do 1st babies tend to engage?
How is everyone coping with this hot weather? I just feel like laying still all day and not moving!
Everyone is so close now

Morning everyone
One week left at work
Had a MW appointment yesterday and everything was fine. They mentioned the hospital has a birthing unit which has beanbags and sofas and you're left to get on with it, so that sounds fantastic. Although iirc last time I'd have given birth in the hospital lift if I'd needed to - by that point I didn't care!

Quick message for gonnabamumma if you are reading- trying to email you about the next meet up but I got an auto reply telling me you are on maternity leave If you're not checking those emails for a while could you send me another address, would be great to have you there.

Hope everyone is well, sorry I can't catch up right now!

oooh, i can't believe we're all so close. hope everyone has lovely births and lovely sleeping babies. I am 37 weeks today, so hoping for anytime now. Going to get my hair cut this morning which I haven't done for ages.
A good friend who i see most days is going away this weekend for a few weeks, it's weird to think that next time i see her i'll have a little baby in arms (or be feeling mightily uncomfortably pregnant otherwise!!)

Thanks for the responses on the disappearance of symptoms. I know I've not had it as bad as a number of you, and have actually enjoyed the experience on the whole, but looking forward to some of the aches and pains disappearing. Five weeks (ish) left.

Just tomorrow and 2.5 days next week left in the office before joining you on mat leave!!! And it's really horrible in the office at the mo. Had to have some serious conversations with team members yesterday, while trying to ignore baby gymnastics going on in my belly. I'm sure the other people could see my bump lurching - not very appropriate in the circumstances.

Will start packing my bags once I've finished work next Wednesday. Thanks for the encouragement, SprinkleofStardust!

I saw the artcles about the lady with 12. Good grief.

Great news LJ29. I think thats all our placentas moved now

and Poor you stay frosty. What horrid bin men

Good luck ladyem.

Trixie the plugging thing is probably to do with health and safety and having all elecrical equipment in the hospital tested. It is the same at work for me, although we do sneak items in. I have a popcorn machine for example and people sometimes bring George Forman or pannini grills in to use when cooking.
We have stuff tested annually and they get a little sticker.

Hi there
Sounds like everyone's about to pop in the next couple of weeks. Hurrah. I have 9 days to go which is a blessing as if they leave it any longer I shall get my dressmaking scissors out and do it myself.
I will join everyone in their Katonaesque status I am still hoping for 2 1/2 stone babies.
I am getting excited now it's so close!!!
By the way did anyone see the lady preggers with 12 .... the mind boggles.

I am glad your placenta has moved LJ29 huzzah! but sorry about the bleeding. You take it easy. God, these horrible random things that our bodies keep coming up with.

Trixie I do feel a bit better after the osteo thank you. Poor taxi driver though, when he saw me staggering out of the house all leaning on walls and in pain, he visibly blanched and said 'are you in labour love? You going to the hospital?' poor man, turns out it was his first week as a taxi driver he was mighty relieved when I said I wasn't in labour.

That duty obstetrician? oh my god. I hope karma bit her well and truly on the arse when it was her turn. Good on you complaining.

Hi ladies, sorry about DH Stayfrosty.

Well a bit f an adventerous weekend here. Went to the loo at about 2 in the morning on Sunday and foun I was bleeding - again! rang hospital who said i needed to go in. As I had previously been told of lowlying placenta they weren't happy for me to go home but couldn't scan me until Monday. So stayed all day Sunday and overnight. Lots of suggestion that placenta must still be low and hints of C/S. Anyway had the scan and it had moved so no idea where bleeding was coming from but allowed home at tea time.

The other scary thing was that the scan reckoned he weighs about 7lb 5oz already but given that DD was 9lb 14.5oz I suppose he is just on track to be about the same. Currently 36.3 so potentially another 2lb.

Anyway its given me a kick up the bum and bags are more or less ready and all nursery things are down from the loft.

Good luck for Friday Ladyem.

Ugh, poor StayFrosty - what a miserable day. I would have been weeping in the road if it were me, too. Did the osteo make a difference with the SPD?

My drip/epidural situation last time was, I hope, unusual. My doctor told me she would have the nurses start the pitocin drip, but that she was going home for a rest and would be back in plenty of time for the main event. In the meantime, the doctor on duty was in charge. Said duty obstetrician was a bit younger than me and 8.5 months pregnant herself. The drip was started, within an hour I was begging, BEGGING for the epidural, and the duty doctor said nastily, 'You're going to have to wait till the pain is a lot more unbearable for that.' Neither my husband nor I had been through labour before, so we didn't realise how totally out of line the doctor was.

Eventually the nurses took pity, chased down the anesthetist for me, and I got my lovely lovely epidural. By the time my own doctor came back, I was too distracted to mention it, but when I brought it up at my post-natal checkup my doctor was horrified and asked me to write a letter to the hospital about it, as denying an epidural to a woman on a pitocin drip (or any woman who asked for one in a situation where it wasn't clearly impossible) was totally against the hospital policy.

I expect the duty doctor was, in some weird way, projecting what she wanted for her own birth onto me. And who knows who else. My letter to the hospital was a furious work of art, if I do say so myself.

Anyway. V annoyed by the predicted heat tomorrow, am sweaty enough as it is. hmph.

Anyone going to Primark look at the short nighties with straps I got a white with pink embroidery on which I intend to wear for the birth (I know I know white is a bit impractical) They had a nice pink one too but not in the size I wanted.

I got a 14-16 (normally 8-10) and it is loose and cool and comfy and because the straps are adjustable. They are not fallng off and showing my boobs.

It was very comfy in bed last night.

and erm I was referring to Frosty's quip about her weight, rather than this news story www.mirror.co.uk/celebs/news/2009/08/18/kerry-katona-axed-by-iceland-over-cocaine-claims-115875-2160 3997/

I havent even touched the G&A officer!

Frosty go back to bed and start all over again. Rotten day for you. I imagine most of us are on the Katona side of pregnant by now .

Hi everyone
SF - what a lovely neighbour
Can't believe I have completely forgtten the RLT - still have some bags left over from last time! I could have been drinking it for ages now and always meant to but never remembered at an appropriate time. I quite like it and I hate fruit tea - just tastes like late pregnancy to me!
I had the tablets last time and I was going to say they didn't do anything...but I did have a quick labour, so really I should get some more. I'll see!
Well, MW appointment this afternoon - would love to think it will be the last one but I doubt it. Also really really need to pack our bags, am getting hung up on the fact I havn't got stupid stuff like "toy for big brother" - that does not need to stop me packing a toothbrush and nightie! Just procrastinating I suppose

Thank you she was really nice, she is very posh and they looked really intimidated by her. I otoh looked like a fat sweaty insane fishwife. I wasn't shouting but I feel likelate pg has made me cut a very Kerry Katonaesque figure, especially when crying in the street in my jamas. lol.

oh no frosty Bloody bin men! That's like those bus drivers who pull off just as you get to the bus stop. I think they must get a thrill from doing it. Grrrr! Thank goodness for your nice neighbour! Hope the osteopath helps with the pain and that your day takes a turn for the better. <<hugs>>

>>I didn't get one for 3ish hours after they put me on the drip last time



Really? This is inhumane. When they put my drip in I sort of feebly mentioned epidurals and would I need one blah blah and they told me in a very no nonsense way that unless I had STRONG objections, I would be getting one anyway, that with the drip it was fairly necessary, and it was put in before they hooked me up to the drip.

I am beginning to realise how lucky I am to live near a massive teaching hospital.

I am having a horrible day. dh is still stuck in no man's land, all rally vehicles have been impounded as apparently the organisers have made a fuck up with the import duty. Then this morning I was woken up by a wasp at 6 am which got in the window and couldn't get back out for over an hour, the stupid thing, then I heard the bin lorry, realised it was blue bin day and we missed last month, so staggered out of bed and limped down the road after the bin men with the bin, in absolute agony with my SPD while they ignored me the fuckers. A neighbour came rushing out of ehr house, took the bin off me and chased them with it, bollocked them hugely then gave me a massive hug; I proceeded to embarrass myself yet further by bursting into tears at this act of kindness, staggered back in the house and have been properly unable to walk since, I htnk I have maybe damaged myself good and proper. I am off to the osteopath in a minute though thankfully.

Today sucks bishop! I am so fed up.

Thanks for the advice trixie!! They are going to try 3 doses of the pessary first, then see what happens after that. Will definitely have the epidural of I'm put on the drip. Have heard that it is agony!! Hope that DD gets her 'hurty ear' sorted out!!

Still need to re-pack the bags with stuff for before the birth and extra snacks! I have NO room left in the bags, so I currently just have a pile of stuff by my original bags that will probably end up being stuffed in a carrier bag on the way out Friday morning!!

Inspired by some of you, I finished packing the bags this morning, aside from food stuff. That feels better! The nursery is all set up and I washed the baby clothes a month or so ago so really all that's left to do is, um, have the baby, I guess? Though now that the bags are packed I'm sure he'll be two weeks late.

Ladyem - INSIST on getting the epidural when you get the syntocinon/pitocin drip, if they don't offer it to you anyway. I didn't get one for 3ish hours after they put me on the drip last time and the induction contractions were worlds harder for me to handle than the natural ones. The syntocinon drip is induction, whether or not you're already contracting (as I was too, StayFrosty - so frustrating).

Minshu - tbh I didn't notice any pg symptoms staying/going after I delivered last time; I was too busy moaning about my stitches and sweating like a warthog and weeing every three minutes. Apparently your body goes straight to work getting rid of all that fluid you made during pregnancy. The pg backache lasted a while for me, though, I think because I spent so much time hunched over trying to bf. (It took me a while to get the hang of it.) (<-- massive understatement)

peachygirl you've given me something to be hopeful about, re carpal tunnel! It's tolerable now but would be a nightmare if I had a baby to change/hold/feed.

Anyone else been told by her hospital that we can't plug anything in once we get there -- ie iPods, CD players? Sounds bonkers to me but am trying valiantly to assume there is a good reason.

Off to take DD to the doctor to see about her 'hurty ear', poor love. Have a good day, ladies!

ooh hello everyone - it's been ages since I was on and so much to catch upon, not least the imminent induction of Ladyem!

Sorry I missed the meet up last week - will make it to the next one (hopefully it will be in the afternoon, so there's less chance of me falling asleep ).

Mostly this week I've been kept busy by nice things, like afternoon theatre trips, and nice lunches with friends, and a yoga birth rehearsal, which was great. We still haven't sorted out the nursery though, so we're still trying to chuck stuff out. Added to that my sleep has been appalling in this weather, and I've really noticed the tiredness creeping up on me. I've decided that after this weekend I'm going to lie about and rest.

Haven't packed the 'just in case we go to' hospital bag (but it is out of the cupboard), and still need to wash the clothes. Have no idea what to wear for early labour, or post birth so am off into Primark this morning to see if they have anything.

Minshu my midwife said that listening to the hypno cd was worthwhile even it just meant I got a decent rest for an hour or two, because it knocks me out cold

Hi all, can't believe it is all getting so close for everyone - especially for Ladyem and the induction on Friday. I keep reading that people are 37 weeks + and I am like wow that's really far gone - then I need a quick slap to myself when I realise I am 39 weeks tomorrow!

Lol at NaughtyFrosty - brilliant!

Welcome to Matleave Sprinkle. I have had two weeks off now and admit I am not missing it a bit!

<waves> TrixieBelden - nice to see you again.

I am so not doing any nesting (and defo not into the ironing), maybe that means baby is going to be overdue? I am getting lots of bh and twinges but nothing which seems to progress into anything.

My birth plan is going to be very short and sweet and say no pethadine and I want an epidural. I have also got a TENS machine which I am hoping will help in the early part so I can stay at home for a bit.

Sorry for those suffering with SPD, life is uncomfrotable enough with normal pregnancy aches and pains without getting extra pain.

Whoo hoo ^^ mexican wave for me!!!

In my first weekend of maternity leave I have washed EVERYTHING for the baby and myself (including the brand new activity mat, lol!) and have now packed the hospital bags and done my birth plan!! Feel alot better now and just hoping that the bags do not leave the house and we manage to stay at home as planned!!!

I now heartily encourage all fellow procrastinators to just get on and do it, you will feel so much better and really be able to just relax guilt free!!!

Right after all that work I am now very tired so off to bed!!

Hi all, I think my symptoms went pretty quickly afetr DD was born.

TrixieBelton I had carpel tunnel last time but had no treatment I worked with someone who was a Bowen technique therapist and she showed me some exercises and these helped a bit. I think it went in a couple of weeks after DD was born, maybe even quicker. There seems to be no signs of it at the moment.

I tried the RLT and it was OK I didn't have a full cup but left the bag in for a while. I thought it was quite fruity.

Also I had a thought I would pass onto you. When I had dd I used a clear plastic zippy bag from a stationery shop from a stationery shop. Mine is quite tough with weaving to reinforce it. Its good as you can see where everything is from the outside.
I can't find a link to them though. I will keep looking.

No sign of thusnelda for a bit I hope she is OK.

ps, can you tell I have no energy for anything else except surfing MN!!!

Mishnu Don't worry, was sitting on the sofa, ironing board lowered, with my feet in cold water! Ironing has always been my favourite chore (in a, you know, the best of a bad bunch kind of way!!) as you can put a DVD on and not notice you are doing it!! Also know what you mean about the hypno cd!! I have to do it when I wake up now, then I am not as likely to fall asleep for 2 hourws afterwards!! Think I'll be doing it before bed as well this week! Double up on it!

I found that all pregnancy symptoms went as soon as DD was born. Even my 'sniffer-dog' nose went back to normal straight away and it had been awful the whole way though. I did, however, get phantom kicks for a couple of days afterwards! It felt like she was still kicking me every so often, but it could have just been either in my head or stuff falling back into place!!!

Ladyem - ironing while standing in a bowl of cold water - sounds like a health and safety issue!! I can't imagine my nesting instinct making me iron, to be honest... Can't believe you're so close!

I've listened to my hypno CD once, and struggled to come round afterward. Biggest problem was feeling guilty to be lounging on the sofa while DP slaved away in the baby's room (not that he made a fuss). Will start to do it more regularly when I'm in the house on my own, I think. Not totally convinced that it will help with the serious pain part, but if it can alleviate the urge to panic, that will be money well-spent.

JRocks - what a lovely Mum you've got! Sorry you're having a hard time, and hope growth scan goes ok.

For you second (and third) timers - how long does it take for the pg symptoms like breathlessness and rib pain to go? Or is that a stupid question and we'll be too knackered to notice?

Very true!! I know exactly what you mean!! I've not been able to plan really as I always new there was a possibility of elective c-section, so had been fixated on that, but then they tell me early induction will be better, so now I have to prepare myself for going through labour again. Bit nervous, but will be so happy not to be pg any more and to have my LO!! Just focusing on the end result this time, where as last time was focusing on the pain!! Lol!

>>Did you get the itchy skin/low blood pressure from the epidural?

No, nothing like that. Ended up with episiotomy and ventouse, which was prob due to ineffective pushing - but who knows, maybe I would have had them anyway? - but it wasn't really a problem, would be more than happy to do the same again really. I'm going to try for the active birth option this time, mainly because I know 2nd labours can go faster than first, and in practical terms there probably won't be time for an epidural, plus it'd be nice to go straight home, all other things being well... but no real preference either way tbh. There's a lot to be said for pain free

It's funny going into it as a 2nd timer isn't it? In a way it is harder to make plans, cos you know the only certainty is that there is no certainty iyswim?

Stayfrosty Thanks for that, I have just updated my birth plan to say that if they have to use the drip, I want an epidural at the same time!!! I did it all on g&a last time (not for lack of begging for an epi/c-section! Was just too far gone!), so I have nothing to prove to myself! I think if it can be done pain free, why suffer? Did you get the itchy skin/low blood pressure from the epidural? Only side effect I've heard of, but no one seems to ever mention it!

Hello all, I've been somewhat absent from this thread for a while, lots of not so nice RL stuff going on... Good to see everyone's getting themselves prepared! I have been a bit hit and miss with the whole getting ready thing, but my mum threw me a surprise baby shower and friends from all over the country came down, it was lovely {smile] Also means that I have a pile of lovely things I now don't have to go out and buy.. as well as some very practical things that SIL (bless her) put into a basket.

Have to go for a growth scan on Thursday as this one is doing what it's brother did and getting rather big. Am terrified as I have the narrowest hips in the world!

Hope everyone is well...

TheTickListQueen - I called a friend in the States who's studying to be a midwife and she steered me to www.1cascade.com where she gets all her supplies. Can't advise on shipping times as I had everything sent to my mother and she brought the package over a few months ago. Sounds like we had similar labours - I had absolutely no pain whatsoever during the pushing bit. It's funny how in the US you can either have absolutely nothing or you can have an epidural, and there's nothing in between. I've never had nitrous oxide and am used to thinking of it as something rather illicit!

Ladyem i also loved my epidural. I wasn't induced, but they did have to put me on that drip to speed contractions up (syntocin?) as I had v slow non progressive labour, they told me it was standard practice to give an epidural at the same time as it makes labour just massively intense. I napped my way through transition it was simply divine.

Ticklist they do those ice packs in Boots and Mothercare for about £20 for 2, plus the disposable covers for them. I've been thinking about whether or not to get some!

Been doing my hypnobirthing cd as much as possible, to try to prepare myself for friday! I really don't want to go into a panic during labour, as last time I managed to stay at home until 8cm, but this time I'll be in the hospital for the whole thing, so might not be as relaxing.

Am defo thinkng abut having an epidoodle now!! Pain free sounds good to me!

LadyEm, how exciting to be so near to meeting your LO!!

lololol @ MrsChemist 'selective nesting' this is sooooo true, I do this all the time and unfortunately so does dh (or NaughtyFrosty as he shall henceforth be known ). Why do the accounts/clean the fridge out when you could be painting the front door or making flapjack?

And lol @ trixie's dd doing 'work' on her laptop, how cute. I must disabuse anyone of the notion that I am bravely soldiering on with SPD and a toddler, however, she is at my mum and dad's til dh gets back, I just cannot cope at all, I can barely look after myself. I feel super guilty and I really miss her, but she is having a fine old time of it there, playing in their big garden and walking the dogs, whereas she would be stuck in front of CBeebies a lot of the time if she was here.

Oooh TrixieBelden you have just reminded me about perineal cold packs. I had DS in the States too and they were brilliant. Meant to source some ages ago and forgot all about it. Can I ask where you got them from and about how long they took to arrive? Not sure I've got enough time now.

LOL about an epidural being a gift from god. Didn't have a lot of choice where I was as they didn't do g and a. When the pushing time came with DS I remembered having read how if you push like your life depends on it when you feel a twinge (under an epi) of a contraction then they don't have to turn it down. Had a lovely pain free birth which I didn't know was possible.

Hi All!

Been lurking as not much to report!

Trixibelden I know what you mean about packing the hospital bag. I've had mine done for a couple of weeks, but now need to re-think them as I am going in for induction on Friday and I have no idea how long it will take or how long I'll be in for!! I have no more room in the bags, though for extra clothes and nighties!! Think I might have to be selective and have an extra bag ready in case I am in longer than expected! Re the hospital abtherooms, where I had DD was always really clean and they seemed to be cleaned every couple of hours, so not all hospital bathrooms are awful. Not sure about where am having this LO, though as I now live in a completely different area!

Stayfrosty Glad DH is on his way home! Think I'd have gone doolally coping with DD on my own for so long at this stage!

Blinder Good luck with the dissertation! I've been doing a distance learning degree and have found it difficult just doing the modules and normal assignments, so hats off to you!

Wow, so many of you having home births! Am a tad jealous, as the thought of a lovely birthing pool and g&a sounds really relaxing! I'm hoping for the pool at the hospital!

Well, not been up to much in this heat!! Sorted out all the clothes and rubbish that were clogging up the nursery so that DH could get on with the decorating!! (I know, a bit late in the day, but the baby will be in with us for a few weeks at least!!) Also been doing lots of ironing (think this is my nesting instinct kicking in as I've ironed EVERYTHING in the house!!). Managed to set it all up so I could sit down to iron with my feet in a bowl of cold water! Was lovely!

Hi all -- have caught up a bit and am so relieved to see so many people in the same bag-packing-procrastinating boat. This is baby no. 2 for me (DD is 4.5) and it's much harder this time around for me to get myself in gear for delivery. Though reading about those of you who have already had your babies is definitely a kick in my ever-growing backside.

Low-lying placenta-havers: mine was v low last time, but by 38 weeks it had moved up to 2cm from the os, and I delivered vaginally. Apparently it was a bloodbath (I wasn't looking) but my doctor said neither I nor the baby was ever in danger. I mention the blood not to scare you but so you can warn your partners if you want! I remember DH trying to keep a calm face, but his eyebrows shooting up past his hairline kind of gave away his shock.

Re: babies' presents for older sibs -- DD has been asking for months for a specific Disney costume. Pains me to buy it because they get glitter everywhere, but that's going to be her gift from DB. I figure it'll soften the blow of his arrival for about ten minutes. TheTickListQueen - we got DD a kids' laptop a year ago and it's still one of her favourite things. "Excuse me, Mummy, I just need to do a little bit of work now," and away she goes with Winnie the Pooh and his tedious ABC games. Brilliant.

Ladyem - Don't let anyone talk you out of Harriet, I love that name! FairySparkles - I love Raphael, unfortunately a friend used it a few years ago so it feels funny for us to consider it. I know a few little Oscars and I always lean toward the less popular names...

*mummyhill, StayFrosty, Ladyem* - I feel so bad for you with the SPD. Had that last time and it was so, so miserable. You have my intense admiration with managing that AND older kids too.

blinder - Ugh, good luck with the dissertation. I remember those days all too well...wrote mine in something ludicrous like five days. Once you actually start, it never seems that bad, right? Though you have it much harder than I did, being pg AND having the internet to distract you. (God I'm old)

nitnat84 - I asked my MW about the strep B test and she went off on a rant about how stupid it was that our PCT tests all pg women for MRSA but not for strep B. So in my part of west London...no, no strep B test.

I'm 36w4d, dealing with v surprising carpal tunnel (didn't have it last time, was AMAZED at how uncomfortable then painful it was; had a systemic steroid injection and was given paracodol so it's manageable now -- I have so much sympathy now for those who have it all the time). Last time I saw the MW, the passenger's head was down, which is good, since for various boring medical reasons I have to have a hospital birth, and yet we need to try to avoid a c-section, or more specifically the blood-clotting drugs one gets after a c-section. Haven't done a birth plan, since it's quicker to just scream EPIDURAL! when we get to the hospital. (Had one last time during a 24-hr labour, convinced it was gift from God). Need to finalise plans for DD, though -- it's such a pain to be due so close to the start of school, makes it a little more complicated to figure out who'll take her/what to put in her bag. Am terrified most of all that I'll miss the first day of reception, which would make me feel guilty for the rest of my days.

Must finish packing that bag. So hard when you don't know how long you might be in for. I ordered a couple of things from the US, where I had DD, that I'm given to understand aren't provided here -- peri-bottles, perineal cold packs, etc -- and so those are packed, but the clothes bit is flummoxing me. As are the horror stories about the state of hospital bathrooms. Second- (or third-) timers, did you find you needed to clean up after other people before you could use the showers/loos?

No Minshu - I understood you! You were sympathising! Tbh, daytime telly is awful nowadays, whereas the internet gets more fascinating by the day. How many birth stories can one woman read for goodness sake? Sorry if I seemed to snap when I asked how the hell you knew I was online! I thought it was hilarious and amazing that as I was typing my post, you were wondering if I was wasting time on the net . I wondered if you could see me through my screen .

Still haven't packed my bag .

And the G&A is still untouched under the stairs, but I have inflated the pool for a test drive. Comfy!

Frosty - great that NaughtyFrosty is on his way home .

Thank you for the welcomes everyone and hello AliDran!

Instead of nesting I have developed what I like to call 'selective nesting'. The pots will be unwashed and the ironing pile will be the size of the house, but I will be busy bleaching the wardrobes. If it's a useless task that can wait then I will be doing it instead of the stuff that really needs doing.

I wish I had G&A in my house I shall have to have a home birth for the next one

Hey all,

I washed all the nappies and clothes today so all ready to pack the bags when they dry! Its so lovely seeing all the tiny things hanging up.

Peachygirl we have the city mini, its a great pushchair. Really reasonable price too, its built really well. Dp said something about good ball bearings when it arrived which apparently is impressive?!

I had a home birth kit delivered on Sat- I had no idea they were coming, no one had told me! I thought my appt was on weds at the medical centre Had a lovely 'moment' on the sofa listening to the heartbeat through the doppler with ds wearing a stethoscope and dp filming, it was very sweet. He helped me clean the gel off my tummy and gave it a big kiss afterwards, it made me cry . The kit just has birth equipment, no G and A left here unfortunately! The mw scared me by saying she thinks I will go too quickly for G and A and that they will be running to catch the baby rather than with the mouth piece. Eek!

I am so excited about not having to go to work tomorrow, have decided to celebrate by staying up past my usual bedtime of 9pm! Had a complete meltdown yesterday, everything got on top of me and realised how much we need to do before the baby arrives. Cried for around 3 hours, but feel much better for it today!
My mum is such a super trooper and came over and helped me clean and tidy and whipped DH into shape (more like shamed him into shape), got the nursery painted finally and it is all ready for the big delivery tomorrow from M&P - so excited, pram and nursery furniture arriving. Finally will be able to stay putting things away!

Had a BBQ this evening which was lovely, hope this nice weather lasts!

Hope everyone else is having a nice Sunday pm

Well I feel as flat as a flat thing thats been to flat shcool! Meh (hate that word but sums things up nicely!) Definately no nesting going on here, bag is packed though which is a nice feeling.

So much going on since I was on here last, I've kep getting some blue screen which wont let me see posts on here or post either, dont have the problem on any other thread though, so have been reading the DM thread which is interesting!

Welcome to the new ladies

Cant believe there are going to be more August babies! Getting very close now!

Glad your DH has decided to come home StayFrosty - that was a bit of a detour! Remember to hide the cream for any bites he may have!

Have you 'tested' the G&A Blinder?! Would be soo tempted! Would have to hide the suturing kit though...

Baby shower sounds lovely Sprinkle, like the nappy cake and baby sock bouquet thats really cute !
Finished work a week ago, I was supposed to be going in for my last week at the end of August but am so tired it cant be done!

Hope every one else is doing good, its the final stretch

Lol, AprilMeadow oops!!! Must have been very tired when I typed that!!!

Hi everyone Thanks for the good wishes about DH.
Things are fine here although we have had a disasterous day with Dd and the potty. It's been going really well up to now with very few accidents but today... its been everywhere.

I have some RLT and was thinking of starting it I am 34 weeks on Tuesday. (I bought some capsules last time but didn't use them as I found out DD was breech) My friend and her family have moved to Italy and we have been donated the half eaten bits out of her freezer and cupboards and there was a new pack in the box.
I thought I would try it with Honey first, then try it iced.

I also have some OEP too and might try some of that too but may wait a bit.

We have decided to get a new buggy. I'm quite excited. The micralite is great but if we went out for a day we would have to use
either the seat, suitable from 6 months, so only DD could ride in it or
the carry cot which only the baby could ride in so we have been looking at
one suitable from birth so either one of them could ride in it and we can
pop the sling in the bottom

We are going to go for the Baby Jogger City Mini, It has excellent reviews everywhere and is a better fit if we decide to get a buggy board. DD is walking loads at the moment and Dh is sceptical that she won't stand still on it.

Umm ... welcome to anyone new and hooray for maternity leave starting soon. I'll be back for a while in September but I have got loads done already, lots of washing etc.
My parents arrive tomorrow and I have a little list of jobs for them to do.

I didn't get a nappy cake last time but I did get a couple of thse bouquets made of baby socks which are lovely if you get one.

sorry this has now become a bit long...blah blah... blah...

Hi all - it's been months and months since I stuck my head in here, and I mean to catch up tonight, because I desperately need to know that there are other people as tired, backachey, ungainly and fed up as me! Due 10th Sep, not sure if my sanity will last that long...

Thank you, SprinkleofStardust! I had no idea

Glad to hear that DH is almost homeward bound, StayFrosty! Will you hit him or kiss him first when you get the opportunity?

Blinder - not sure if one of my previous posts came across a little wrong - I meant to say how much easier it was to do all that thesis stuff back then, before real grown up responsibilities get in the way and how much I admire people who can get on with it after seeing what the real world is all about. I had a hard enough time dragging myself away from the telly at the time and not sure what my self-discipline would be like now.

I would love a nappy cake made with nice fluffy reusable nappies but am not going to buy one for myself and I don't think any of my friends would of even heard of these wonderful items.

I made one for a friend when she had her first but knew she was into disposable nappies so used them and a blanket for the first tier, second tier was muslin squares with toiletries for baby and mum sandwiched in the centre and then more squares and a teddy bear for the top.

As this is our third and we already have all our equipment and a fair few clothes I can't see many people buying anything much for this one!

Sorry Audrey, my mistake

I have never heard of a nappy cake before, how can this be? they sound fab.

My dd is still at my mum and dad's so I can continue putting my feet up and eating ice pops rather than toddler wrangling with SPD; apparently she has never mentioned me once. Dh is hoping to cross into Mongolia tomorrow or Monday then he will be coming straight home instead of going on to the finish line (another three days' journey), he accepts that he might possibly be taking the piss a bit now....

sprinkle, so jealous of your baby shower. I love nappy cakes but can guarantee I wont be bought one as I actually make and sell them as a bit of a hobby, since being pregnant I have been jealous of everyone i've made hehe

LOL Sprinkle....... did you mean muslin squares....?

Lol, Minshu, it wasn't a real cake if that's what you're thinking, it's in the shape of a cake but is made of nappies and muslim squares, and then there's a beautfully soft blanket round the bottom tier (3 tier's in all). Hope that eases your mind!!!

Bless all of you that are still working and aren't giving up til the 4th September. I found this last week really hard going so although I'm going to miss work I'm pleased that I haven't got to travel and do as much for a while at least!!

Right I have been avoiding the RLT as I have erred on the safe side of everything throughout this PG however, having looked into it further and what you have all said I'm going to go and hit it hard now!!! Plus I do actually like the taste, lol!!!

Hi all,

Hope you and bumps are well. I missed the London meet up due to food poisoning which was rubbish and quite scary as the baby stopped moving for a fair bit - think it was frightened as it's now back to its former poking ways! Hope to see you all at the next one.

On the puffy feet front - boring but true - drinking lots of water seems to help. Although then you obviously need more trips to the toilet and can't put your feet up as much! But it helped me.

StayFrosty, au contraire I do believe raspberry leaf tea is effective in helping have a good labour (but not to bring on an early labour if your body is not otherwise ready iyswim).

I had a 4 hour labour at 38 weeks with ds if you want to read anything into that!

It tastes nothiing like raspberry, more like grass if I have to assign a taste. I don't hate it, but wouldn't say I love it either. you can add honey, lemon slices, if you so desire to make it more palatable.

I also started the evening primrose a few days ago, will give anything a try.

Had a gorgeous reflexology session today and going back in two weeks if I make it that long. I wanted to go next sat, but she is all booked up. I came home a fell asleep for 2 hours, that was really fantastic.

yay for people starting mat leave - must be a relief. now, if only ds would grant me my mat leave!!

Irritable at work definitely - just can't be bothered to do much. The tiredness isn't helping though (not sleeping that great with the interruptions of toilet trips and the pain of trying to turn over at night...)

Went for a wander around Guildford today shopping. Have developed a slow walk due to a strange painful sensation if I walk too quickly - feels like she's pressing heavily into my bladder with something sharp - not nice!!

Came back from shopping to settle down to a nice cup of RLT, have since discovered that I don't like the taste of it and from now on will buy the capsules - not heard of the evening primrose oil thing though. Really at this point, I'm happy to give anything a go!!

Evening!

HI Ladies, I have been taking the RLT capsules from 32 weeks (36 today). I started with 1 a day and have slowly built it up to 4/5 a day. I've also read that vening primrose oil taken orally and put up the fanjo can help soften the cervix!

Hope everyone is ok. I finish work on friday next week thank goodness. Isanyone else finding themselves really irritable?

>>Does it taste raspberry-ish?

Nah, it tastes rank. But it comes in tablet form, so I hear. but fwiw, I absolutely caned the RLT last time, still ended up going 11 days overdue and being in labour over 27 hours. on the other hand, my sister swears by it and her dcs were born one week and two weeks ahead of their EDDs respectively.

I agree with Audrey, I think it kind of doesn't really do anything. but I wil probably get some just the same sucker that I am.

Personally, I'm not so sure about the sound of nappy cake, but that's probably just the way my mind works...

My official mat leave starts on 7th Sept (due on 22nd) but I'm using up my annual leave first - it's good to be down to three days a week now that I'm beginning to get physically tired and a bit uncomfortable. Sorry, newbie and alidran, I'm probably not helping, am I?

Holland and Barratt for RLT, then. Does it taste raspberry-ish? Not that keen on "summer fruits" in general, but willing to give it a go, if it will speed up meeting the belly-dweller face to face.

I am glugging RLT like it's going out of fashion. I've only just started drinking it, I was (probably unneccesarily) paranoid about starting it too early. I found it difficult to stomach with dd but am actually enjoying it this time round. Good idea to chill some in the fridge... never thought of that.

<boils kettle>

ps. blinder, i might make up my own homebirth box containing chocolate and champagne! better than G&A!

fwiw, i've been drinking raspberry leaf tea since 12 weeks (know that's a bit controversial), but did so last time too following the thoughts of janet balaskas that it 'tones' the uterus, but doesn't actual start labour. i've been taking one most of the time, but now worked up to about 3 cups, but i think i'll just go unlimited cups now, maybe make some and chill in the fridge as a cold drink.
i think the caution regarding RLT is a bit over the top but that's just me!

Sprinkleofstardust - that baby shower must have been a lovely surprise - like the sound of the nappy cake! Blinder - no absolute remedy for puffy feet beyond the keep your feet elevated for as long as possible, but give your legs a bit of a stretch, rotate your ankles and wiggle your toes every so often. It's no cure but it may help a little.

AliDran - ahhh! Thank goodness there's two
of us to keep going to the 4th Sept (though some crazy lady at my work place told me she kept going to work till her due date.....Why would someone do that??!!) Right had a look at this raspberry leaf tea thing and found this.... http://www.babycentre.co.uk/pregnancy/labourandbirth/planningyourbabysbirth/raspberryteaeaselabourex pert/

It suggests that ladies who used it from 32 weeks had less chance of having a forceps delivery - looks like I'm off to Holland and Barrett to bulk buy a truck load of it then!!

Audreyraines I think it's just to save them lugging it on the day. There is a resuscitation kit and suturing box and that sort of thing [gulp] in mine which they will have to have with them for safety. I expect your MWs will just bring yours on the day. Unfortunately no chocolates or DVDs in it.
Re: G&A - nah you won't need it! But I just want mine for the post-birth constipation.

Welcome Alidran! I'm due on the 4th Sept so we may both have a notable day at the same time.

How do you soothe puffy feet anyone?

I finished work today, YAY!!!! They were all so lovely, gave me a surprise baby shower as I had previously mentioned in passing that I didn't think I'd have one as my friends haven't seemed that interested tbh. It was just brilliant and I got loads of gifts as well as a nappy cake which is amazing!!!

blue - I want a home birth too and at 34 week check was told LO was 'a little bit breech' not sure how that works, surely he's breech or he isn't??? However, she didn't seem bothered (although she's pretty useless as I asked her about something that was really bothering me and she just brushed over it and didn't answer me at all) but then I spoke to my friend who is a MW and has been for 20 years and she said not to worry about being breech, it's not until 37 weeks it becomes an issue, even with a HB. Just do all the positions you can to try and get them to turn and don't panic about it. My LO is still bopping about in there and at times feels like he's doing star jumps and spinning all at the same time!!

Now I am officially on ML I can focus on finally getting my bag packed, clothes washed and anything else that I probably still need to do!!! Nesting comes and goes, DH seems to be trying to do a lot of the MASSIVE list I wrote to stop me doing it I think, bless him!! I intend to just potter and see how it goes for the next couple of weeks and just enjoy being at home for a while before our lives change beyond all recognition, oooh I can't wait!!!

Good evening everyone - I'm new to posting on here, so I thought I'd stop lurking and say hello. Newbie 36 - I'm also due on the 24th and due to finish work on the 4th September. I'm so glad I'm not the only one at work still as it does seem like it's a long way away, and I just want to finish now.. I have the Rasberry leaf tea at the ready as well, but I was going to wait until 36 weeks. Can you start it earlier?

I'm so of you all finishing work so soon! Having read all the messages from the past week or so, think I must be one of the last to be finishing work! Not finishing until 4th Sept as not due until 24th Sept. On one hand feels like ages, and on the other it feels like I have no time left at all.

Just one question to ask - bought some raspberry leaf tea the other day - anyone else given it a go? Does anyone know if i'm i safe to use it now (I'm 34 weeks) - I'm hoping it'll give me that painfree short labour I'm after

Hmmm, I don't get a 'homebirthing box' it seems. I'll be dragging the old towels out of the cupboard. And I've stupidly said I'll do without gas and air. Am I crazy?

Well I think the internet is my biggest distraction (as you cleverly spotted MInshu!) but I've also managed to fill up my time with loads of other things too - work, decorating, DS1, looking at houses, applying for mortgages etc yada yada yada.

Also, sleeping is nice .

Frosty - yes it's so important to test these canisters! <rushes off>

Blinder - I was a student once... I wasn't pg at the time and I didn't have a PC of my own, either, so had to go into uni to write my thesis, so less temptation to do other things at home. Just been wondering if it was the desire to procrastinate at the time, or if day time TV really is more dire now compared to 10 years ago?

Oh I loved gas and air, the temptation would be too much for me - a G&A party would be just the ticket right about now And actually, you might be as well testing it out - when I went into labour for my (failed) home birth, the midwife sent round two canisters in a taxi. Except one of them was empty!!! which only came to light after I'd chugged the first one, of course. Cue mass panic chez Frosty and another bemused taxi driver sent round asap.

Minshu - cross post.

How the hell did you know??!!

Peachy- wonderful news!

Littlecheese - my bump shrinks and grows too. I think it's to do with how she is lying. Don't fret!

Thanks all for the arse-kickings and messages of good luck.

Did sod all today however because my homebirthing box (mostly towels it seems) has arrived in the care of lovely midwife number 6! And LO is 3/5 engaged. Obviously I cannot work with an event like that occurring.

And guess what - they left a lovely canister of G&A too. It's under the stairs now... tempting me. Apparently I am not supposed to touch it, but I can always claim it has sprung a leak and ask for another, cant I?

Anyone for a G&A party?

Frosty (fellow procrastinator), d'you reckon a quick puff will open the door to my creative muse?

Afternoon all.

I'm firmly in the "can't be arsed camp" and looking forward to the nesting fairy turning up.

Anyway, doctor's orders to put my feet up. TMI warning - I've been a bit worried about some lumps, looking a bit like blood blisters, near my fanjo. Lovely doctor reassured me that these are actually just varicose veins, rather than anything to worry about. Not very glamorous, but a relief.

Usefully going to spend some feet up time looking on line for thank you presents for the kind people who have given us baby things, and for something for DP to get me for my birthday next week.

5.5 days left at work over the next week and a half. Not many of us left at work now, and some of you will have had your babies by the time I forget my passwords...

Glad to hear your good news, peachy!

Sorry to hear about DH's whereabouts, SF. Hope he finds his way home soon!

I do hope blinder is working and not wasting time on MN!!! Nag, nag, nag!

Hello, MrsC.

Hope the growth scan goes well, Trixievix - even if your sister misses the big event, your welfare is the important thing.

StayFrosty.... Russia rather than Mongolia did they take a map?? I guess their timings were hopelessly over optimistic then, he will have soooo much groveling to do when he's back. My DH is off to Korea with work for 5 days tomorrow, not quite the same but still.... at 36wks - it's either brave/stupid/ostrich-thinking.... ho hum, am sure it all makes perfect sense in their heads?!

for the spd pain - sounds horrible

He just manipulates my back a little, and my legs. Tbh, he hardly really does anything, certainly nowt drastic - but afterwards I can really feel the difference. One of my symptoms is pain down the back of my left leg as well as in the groin on that side (I thought this was sciatica, but apparently it's all tied in with the pelvic girdle pain/SPD), and the leg pain is always pretty much gone for a couple of days after a session. Walking is definitely less painful afterwards. and I feel less stiff all over.

So sorry you are needing crutches It is rotten isn't it? The end is in sight though....

Welcome Mrs Chemist

Congratulations to all with good news re positioning, dates, no redundancies etc.

Sending turning vibes to those who need them.

I never had the nesting instinct with my previous two. I am starting to get suff sorted and organised but not in a mad frenzy or bleaching everything in sight iyswim.

I still need to pack my bag, bags for the kids to take to nan's although the baby's stuff is all packed in a nice baby box type thingy!

Just sorted out the kids wardrobes ready for the great uniform hunt which will have to start at the end of the month when we get paid.

Still waiting for duplicate payslips to send off my maternity allowance claim form and am not happy cause the sooner the claim is processed the sooner I get some money!

Wonder if I can squeeze an appointment with an osteopath before next friday... or if it's worth it...! Have put up with it for this long!! I know physio is supposed to be rubbish, but they were going to sort me out with some crutches as walking is getting VERY painful!

What did they actually do at your osteo session to help Stayfrosty? Do they do manipulation or give you exercises? Hope your DH will be back soon!

ah, i saw my friend who is an osteo last night for my foot, and it was wonderful.

Could I any more? I'll get lines if I'm not careful.

LadyEm, forget teh physio, all mine did was tell me how to roll over in bed and not to hoover - treat yourself to an osteopathy session, honestly, I feel like a new woman afterwards, cannot recommend it highly enough.

Well, my dh is in bloody Russia miles away from Mongolia still and he was supposed to be back tomorrow; there aren't enough s in the world to express how I am.

Think my DH has got the nesting instead of me, he completely emptied the fridge and scrubbed it last night!! He's a gud 'un!!

Forgot to mention on my last post, but the consultant had done an urgent referral for physio for me as she said I had severe spd, although I've not had an appointment through yet and I'm being induced next week, so not looking likely!! It is rubbish!!

I can completely sympathise with the non-bag-packers.... I was in denial too and got horrible nervous sick butterflies everytime I thought about it. But today at 36+1 I can happily report that I have just done bags for me, baby and DD, pheweee... there is even a list on top of all of them with stuff-that-still-needs-to-be-added (food, phone, wallet, etc).... although I am too hoping for a home birth (there's quite a few of us down for one I think!) but you never know. And midwife dropped of birth pool at the weekend... might need a test drive in this hot weather .

I feel so much better now (I think)... so come on ladies <general kick up arses> let's get on with it!

I feel really sorry for the SPD sufferers, my achey hips feel bad enough, kind of puts it into perspective a bit, and hope the breech LOs are all turning head down asap.

Welcome MrsChemist!

And if I could be added to the nesting fairy's schedule too, that would be fab... I am trying to do it by proxy (poor DH) at the moment and I think he'd appreciate a break

Hi all - apologies for being so utterly crap at keeping in touch. Had a busy couple of weeks with moving house, mother-in-law in hospital, still working etc. Still am fully now working from home for the next 2 weeks and then FREEDOM

Had my 34 week appointment (I'm expecting baby #2, so not having as many appointments) on Wednesday when I was 35+2 (am a bit crap at remembering to make appointments!!) and shocked the midwife slightly as am measuring 40 weeks (well 39cms, then 40cms and 40cms) so am being rushed in for a growth scan. DS was 9lbs 3oz, so I was prepared for another biggun, but think this baby is going a bit too far

Am torn between wanted a 'normal' sized baby early or a huge one on time...I really want to avoid a c-section if possible just from practicality points of view as DS will expect me to be playing as usual, plus DH can't cook and I do worry about DS starving!! If I went into labour early or was induced, it would mean my sister will miss the arrival of her next neice/nephew as she's been living in New York for the past 3 years and is booked to fly home the day before my due date. I knew it was pushing it fine, but she had no alternative because of her job out there. Arghh - I suppose as long as baby and I are fine, that's the main thing?

It's been so long since I've been on, it'll take me months to read through, so hoping everyone's fine and Ladylush - hope your DD is doing well.

Much love to all - hope everyone's progressing as they should be and that pesky breech LO's are on the turn

Missed that FairySparkles, I think my IQ and reading age have dropped massively since becoming pg the first time around three years ago. I generally wander through life with the lights on and no one home, like a dog watching a card trick.

Oooo - so jealous of you guys nesting - I'll join the can't be arsed group tho - have to force my self just to load the dishwasher and put the washing machine on!!

Stayfrosty - I'm a big cocodamol fan for the old SPD - I did put it on a post that you could take it; but that was aaaaaages ago!!

nitnat - I know they don't test for Strep B in my area, think it's something that gets missed unless you request it - and then you have to pay - I think....don't hold me to that!!

Lovely ladies
Last day at work (she does a little dance, gyrating and bouncing the bump)!!!!!!!!!!

I a literally so happy to be finishing, as I have yet to do a darn thing - you name it, I have to do it - hospital bag, nursery, cleaning, birth plan, shopping - yep, all on my list. Am 35+3 today, so probably ought to get my finger out.

Welcome Mrs Chemist

Am so happy Peachygirl that you got good news about DH - will def be at the next meet up

Bigbang, pls feel free to come and nest on my behalf, because really not feeling it at the mo!

Have had 2 days at NCT classes this week, really, really useful and DH (who has been in complete denial) thought it was brilliant. Am so glad we decided to do it now. Have labour rehersal at tonight's class (should be interesting!)

Hope everyone is as perky as me today (my colleagues are threatening to kill me for being so happy!)

Do we get tested for Strep B between 35-37 weeks?

i would like to nest but no energy either. let's all get the nesting fairy in to sort us out!

MW came this morning, all good, we are ready to go! hopefully soon.

I have no nesting instinct either - unless wishing that the nesting fairy would do it all counts

Wish the nesting would kick in for me, I'm just so exhausted!! Am slowly getting through the daily jobs of washing, ironing and cooking, but that wipes me out and leaves little energy for any serious nesting!!

Still, this time next week....!

gosh cant believe how many posts i've had to catch up on in only a couple of days. Congrats to those who have had various good bits of news in the last couple of days. Im so jealous of all of you that know when your getting your babies. Im so impatient I just want my baby now. I am also having serious nesting issues. DH thinks its great as I have barely done anything around the house for about 4 months

Kind of wish I lived in london as it sounds like you had a lovely meet up and would have loved to have been able to join you, I dont think there are many people on here close enough to me to arrange a meet up.

This morning im convinced that my bump is smaller which is worrying me a little DH says he just thinks its a bit lower but im not convinced

Brilliant news peachy
Glad the move is over TLQ. PMSL at " will push for the Thurs "
erm hi everyone else, sorry am useless at keeping up at the moment.

Finally back online after our move. I don't recommend shifting this late in pregnancy. I couldn't believe how hard it was just unpacking boxes, no lifting. The mind was willing but I wasn't physically up to much at all. Then instead of sleeping I'd lie awake half the night going over to do lists. Feels wonderful to have the baby's room mostly set up now. Bag is half packed, toiletries and my clothes can go in last minute.

Anyway another August baby here. I'm being induced at 39 weeks which is the 27th of Aug. Won't know the actual date I'm booked in until next Wed but will push for the Thurs so its over before the weekend if possible. Had a scan this week, the baby is estimated to be 7lb 1oz at 36+6 - measuring a week ahead which isn't bad going.

Can't believe its that close. One thing the moving has filled in the time well.

Hello!

Peachygirl- I am so pleased for you! What a relief! It was indeed a good evening, looking forward to the next one

I still have bags to pack and baby clothes/nappies to wash, I'm not ready for this baby yet. Still have my driving test to take too!

Anyone else suffering from 'extreme nesting'? I can't stop cleaning. I have just cleared out the bathroom and cleaned it inch by inch for no reason. The other day I did the kitchen in a similar fashion and I have my eye on the car at the weekend. I am too tired though and collapse afterwards! Poor ds, I do jobs while he naps then when he wakes I try to play but am just exhausted! I need to calm down a bit, there is only so many times you can defrost a freezer.

Good luck with your dissertation blinder- I found it exhausting finishing an ou course last month, I can't imagine doing 30 000 words!

Welcome MrsChemist!

Ooo, may have to try the cocodamol, stayfrosty Mines agony at the mo!

Whoops - TURNS!!!

Peachy - That's great news! It must be a huge relief and now you can relax and look forward to the arrival of your LO!!

Audrey - hope the foot feels better soon!

<<Kicks tigerfeet and Blinder up the arse>>!!! Get it done, then you can relax and eat chocolates!!

Blue - fingers crossed that your LO tuens before you need an EVC, then you can have your homebirth!

MrsChemist - Welcome!

Am sitting with my huge swollen feet up (honestly , it's like they've been inflated or something!) in a vain attempt to coax them back to something resembling normal so that I can squeeze my feet into something other than flip-flops!! Have a huge pile of ironing to do and the nursery still needs clearing so that we can replace the skirting boards and lay the new carpet!! There's always the weekend!

<clasps Blinder to ample bosom> Oh truly you are my sister from another mister. I sooooo recognise my own academic work ethic

Hurrah Peachygirl!! bit of good news that.

Sending turning vibes to Baby Blue.

Oh hey as well, just remembered, had my 34 week appt today and was bemoaning my SPD agony with the midwife, she said 'are you taking paracetomol' 'no' says I 'it does no good really' 'oh' she says, 'have you tried taking cocodamol?' 'no' says I 'no one told me I could take cocodamol' 'well it is perfectly safe' says the midwife.
Sooooo.... I have been at the Solpadeine (the only pain killer worth bothering with imo) and it really works. Just wish someone had told me it was ok to take it 6 feckin weeks ago. arrrrgh.

Hi all
I went to the London meet up had a very nice time, dinner at wagamamas and a drink in the National Theatre. Bigbang and Thusnelda made it and we hope to meet up with those who missed it before our babies arrive.

We have very very good news. We got the email today that said that DH is not to be made redundant. A massive relief for all. I admit I went into the toilet and burst into tears.
I feel we can really move on now and start enjoying the last few weeks of the pregnancy and get some jobs done round the house too.

Blue did you look for the babyspinning website?? and as I have said before.. Don't worry. !!

Welcome Mrs Chemist

Hope you are feeling a bit better aprilmeadow

Poor you Audreyraines, get those feet up and rest

Blinder ... JUST GET ON WITH IT!!

sorry if I have missed anyone else out

I still haven't packed a proper bag yet or written a birth plan, plenty of time for me yet

Kinda half packed bags last night

MW says they'll check at 36 weeks and if LO is still breech they'll send me for a scan at 37 weeks. If necessary, they will do an ECV and see what happens. If the baby becomes distressed, it's an emergency cs, or there's a chance my waters can break She did say they wouldn't normally be concerned at this stage - it's because I'm wanting a home birth that they need this baby to turn well before then...

Ladies just a suggestion - I have done my birth plan on the NHS website as it has a birth plan section in the pregnancy care planner. Its in different sections and you can print it off. If you don't like the format you could just use it as a prompt.

Welcome MrsChemist!!

I have to confess to not having packed my bag yet either, also in slight denial as hoping for a home birth so don't want to have to use it!!

Have at least got everything to go in it, just need to wash things and actually pack it!!

Also haven't written my birth plan, although I know what I want, are MW's not capable of reading minds???

Had my first bought of KNUF pains today, which I must admit are described very accurately and I'm so glad people had discussed them on here otherwise I would have been terrified I was going into labour!!

Last day of work tomorrow, looking forward to the rest but sad about finishing!! 36 weeks on Saturday!!

Hi all. Been ages since I've been on. Had a look through last few pages - can't believe this is all getting so real now although I guess we have been waiting for 8 months!

Ladylush - great to hear that all is well and I hope that DD gets home soon.

Aprilmeadow - sorry you didn't get to bring your baby home but glad that all is well and hopefully it won't be much longer now.

Blue - fingers crossed littlun gets moving in the right direction soon.

Audrey - that's not great news. I hope you feel better soon.

It's all starting to feel very real for us after an appointment with the consultant last week when she seriously debated inducing at 38 weeks. Instead, she's decided to get me in three weeks today for monitoring of the baby and possibly a sweep to see if things can be kick started. She has decided that if that doesn't work, they'll induce before 40 weeks which means I have a maximum of 4.5 weeks left. Haven't packed a thing but have been very busy internet shopping for all the annoying bits and bobs needed - who wants to buy maternity pads, breast pads and delightful feeding bras? Yuk. On the plus front, did see lots of nice things to buy when I can fit into normal clothes again - even if possibly a size up from pre-pregnancy!

Well, (deep breath and puts on Northern accent like the Monty Python sketch) I am so underprepared that I still havent started writing my 30,000 word dissertation which I want to complete before mini-blinder arrives.

I keep telling myself that I work best under pressure !

When one of you has kicked TigerFeet up the arse, would you mosey over to me too please?

Tell you what though, it's really taking my mind off the birth!

woo hoo, just finished my birth plan (cut and paste from last time) just in time for my MW appointment tomorrow. Also did my list of childcare options for ds - he is so going to hate all of them, i'll just pray that he sleeps through a quick middle of the night labour.

haven't packed hosp bag yet, but being a bit blaze as will (fingers crossed) be having a homebirth again. will make an attempt at packing one on weekend perhaps.

i've hurt my foot and can't walk very well - this is not great for looking after ds and we are both getting very frustrated and teary with the whole situation. it's been like that for 3 days, i hope it goes soon.

I'm also chronically underprepared and struggling to motivate myself re bag packing - I was always like this with exam revision and essay writing etc. I just keep thinking 'oh I've got loads of time left'. I'll prob end up doing it between contractions

I'm having a boy. I'm 36+2 and he is bloody large now

TigerFeet I also need to do my birth plan. I meant to discuss it with my MW this morning but I forgot. I'll get round to it soon.

Must go and buy maternity pads as well.

Those maternity pads bloody well feel that huge when your wearing them

That's bath towels btw - my sanitary towels aren't quite that huge!

Hi MrsChemist! Are you having a boy or a girl?
I packed my bag last night - got as far as maternity pads, breast pads and lucozade sweets then it all just seemed too difficult. How can I pack the camera when we still need to take pictures of DS?? How can I pack trousers to come home in when I only have 3 pairs and I need them all (they're ona permanent wash-dry-wear cycle) - suppose that might get easier when I'm not working any more.
I started by packing two towels and they filled my bag, so it didn't go well at all!

Don't worry MrsChemist, I haven't gotanything-- other than one pack of nappies packed my bag either . Welcome to the world of the underprepared! In fairness we still have all of dd's stuff. It's in the house. Somewhere. And I have some reusable nappies on order.

Birth plan. Something else I am still to do.

Will someone come and kick me up the arse please?

welcome Mrs Chemist!

<whispers> I haven't packed my bag either. I'm booked for a homebirth and I'm in massive denial about the fact that I may still need to go in .

37 weeks tomorrow!!!

April That must have been quite scary! Glad the ABs are working and don't worry, you'll have your baby to bring home before you know it!!

Fairy Love the names Florence and Oscar! They are gorgeous! Wasn't too sure about Raphael at first, but it is growing on me!

Had MW appointment today and it was very strange saying that the next time I'd see her would be at home after I've had the baby! Sorted my birth plan with her and what I need to take in as I don't how long it will all take to be induced and actually have the baby. Think I'll have to pack a few books, mags and plenty of money for the TV!

blue that's a PITA . Still lots of time though - it only takes a few seconds for them to turn. What do the midwives say?

Hello!

I'm (sort of) new to the site and am due on the 8th of september with my first. Due to pregnancy brain I haven't been on the ante-natal boards until now.
I just thought I would say hello and introduce myself.
Also wondering if I am the only person who is slovenly and not packed my bag. I have the things, just not all in one place.

Oh wow, all these imminent babies . Hope you're on the mend soon AprilMeadow, sorry you didn't get to bring your baby home (well not on the outside anyway!) but perhaps for the best for a couple of weeks yet.

It's my last day at work today . I've been presented with jewellery, baby toiletries, a growbag and some flowers

35+5 today... the IL's go home tomorrow after spending the last couple of weeks looking after dd so I can finally start getting on with finding all our newborn stuff and getting it all washed and ready.

I've been getting period type pain and many many KNUFs on and off for a few days now. I've been largely ignoring it tbh... I am so not ready for this baby to be born that I refuse to believe that the head may be engaging or anything along those lines! I need another week. Then she can come whenever she likes. I'll probably go overdue now, won't I

Hi all - not had chance to catch up for ages - just been having a quick scan of the last page or so!!
Hope everyone's ok - no sign of anymore babies yet then?! Other than you April - you have come home with AB's rather than your baby! not long now tho.....

I'm 34+2today - feels like I've got ages compared to some of you due in August now!!
Got my hospital bags half packed so nearly organised - some of you were mentioning prezzies for dc's - I've got that to sort out too - thought I'd get dd soemthing from baby but as she's only 18months herself not sure if she's really gonna understand the concept - just hoping a new toy will keep her adequately occupied while her new brother or sister runs me ragged!!

On the name subject.... we're pretty stuck with girls names but we do both like Florence, but boys: honest opinions on Raphael please???? Dh really wants it but I want Oscar - told him he can have Raphael as a middle name!

oh dear April
Sorry you haven't come back with a baby, but glad the ABs are having an effect. I'm getting a bit nervous about how soon it is and how unprepared I am!

Hi all, just back from a 36hr stay in hospital. Managed to get a nice UTI that was irritating the uterus and got 9 sets of tightenings in 1 hour on Tuesday night. Went in for monitoring at 22.15 and was told i needed anti-biotics and had to stay in..... Now for the funny part.... Bag has been packed for WEEKS and it was the one thing i didnt take with me!! I figured that i would just pop on the monitor and be told false alarm and sent home (my mum came with me so that dh could stay with kids rather than getting our entire labour plan in place) or that it would be time for baby to come in which case dh would bring my bag. Didnt think i would need to stay for monitoring. So had to wear a gorgeous hosp gown - was given a hand towel and a tiny tube of toothpaste but no brush, so had to use my finger!! lol

Had a scan and it showed that baby is now head down - very good news.

Anyway, AB's are doing the trick and i have a course to take for 5 days. Feel a bit that i havent come home with a baby.

Also have been told that they wont use my edd of the 14th and have to go with the scan date of 18th.. so that makes me 34+6 not 35+3 - ah well.

off to catch up x

For toiletries I would recommend going to a cheapie shop/supermarket and buying the minatures so that they weigh less in your bag. Your not going to need a whole bottle of shampoo and I managed to get a little bag with shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and moisturiser for 99p and then bought a minature deodorant for 50p.

Ladylush glad things are going well. Have you figured out a way to let us know what she is called yet?

I bought all my supplies in Boots the other day: disposable knickers, breast pads, maternity pads, Lansinoh etc etc to pack my bag with - and then realised I had forgotten to get nappies. Doh!

Oh yes! My tummy moves all over the place!

And I thought I had nearly finished packing but then realised I had forgotten shampoo, soap, deodorant and hairbrush . That would have been a lovely rinse down after giving birth!!

oh blue
What does the MW say?
I've packed 2 packs of sanitary towels (but thinking I should probably get some more as that's all I have - but seem to remember last time having way more than I ever needed). I think last time I packed a whole pack of nappies - might just put about 10 in the bag and throw a full pack in the boot of the car.

Yeah blinder - frequent punches/kicks to the bladder. LO still breech ay 34+4. Not happy and feeling a bit scared.

Anyone else's LO using their organs for tennis practice? My belly is jumping around like crazy!

Thanks for all the nice messages Re sanitary towels - I recommend the Boots maternity pads (normal - not slimline). At night I used to wear two just in case. Normal pads are rubbish. The blood loss after the birth is often very heavy.

I've packed 3 pks of sanitary towels. from what I remember last time I was changing them every hour or so for the 1st day and I take enough for a couple of days just in case.

Hi all, how many nappies do they say you should pack in your bags? Also how many maternity sanitary towels?

Hi all, haven't been on for a while as since i finished work last week I haven't got access to a computer every day. Haven't caught up on any posts yet but will do once I've posted this so sorry if i've missed any important news.

I am 36+5 days and getting bigger quite suddenly in the last few days (i've carried small so far) I had about an hours worth of quite painful braxton hicks last night but they stopped when I went to bed.

Just bought the last bits to go in my hospital bag as the big 37 week mark approaches...!

xx

Been lurking, but suddenly loads to catch up on! Must be great knowing your dates, Neddie and Ladyem.

Really pleased to hear that DD has made such good progress, Ladylush. Fingers crossed that you are all together very soon.

I'm off today, and I've got 6.5 days left to work over the next two weeks. Not sure if it's psychological or genuine, but I'm shattered - feel like my brain is even more full of fog than normal today. Managed several loads of washing and re-did my toenails so far. Hmm - must try harder and go for a gentle walk while we have decent weather.

My house is far too small suddenly. My best friend, with a 20 mo DD (my god daughter) had given away a lot of baby stuff before I got pg, but still had "a couple" of boxes to pass on to me. Anyway, we came away with 5 boxes, two bags, a baby carrier, baby gym and a steriliser! Hope the sonographer was right about the colour of my bump

I've put on about 30 lb now at 34 + 1, but it does seem to be mostly bump, plus a bit of boob. Not entirely sure how heavy I was to start with though, which being around Christmas / New Year, could have been heavier than my normal. Another 6 weeks of growth, though...

Can't believe delivery dates are so close for some people! I still have 10 days left at work
and i still have to pack my hospital bag!! Still, think I have everything to go in it now, just a case of throwing everything in the bag itself.

Isn't it strange - it feels so long ago that we were all sick/shattered during early pg. Now there's a matter of days left for some of us! The yr seems to have flown by now.

ladylush so pleased to hear dd coming home.

neddie 5 stones ain't too bad! Remember bigger boobs weigh quite a bit too! Just found this (you could surely *2 for yourself):
Baby - 7 1/2 lbs
Placenta- 1 1/2 lbs
Aminotic Fluid- 2 pounds
Uterine Enlargement - 2 Pounds
Breast Tissue - 2 pounds
Blood Volume - 4 pounds
Fluids in Maternal tissue- 4 pounds
Maternal Fat stores - 7 pounds
Total - 30 pounds

I bought Dr Miriam Stoppard 'nurture' nursing bras in the debenhams sale a couple of months ago. Reduced from 16 to 3. Was a bit worried lately that they wouldn''t fit but I've just tried them on and they're fine. Do recommend that brand. When you unclip the cup, it only exposes your nipple and a bit of extra flesh, rather that the whole shabang.

Anyone used babasling?? Ordered one yday after a lot of reading through forums...

Morning all,

Congrats on your news Ladyem, very exciting.

Welcome to Mat leave Pebble - relax.

Great news Ladylush, so exciting that you could be at home with your little one shortly.

I am 38 weeks today and I am getting lots of period type aches and a few of those KNUFs as well which are not too pleasant. I am hoping that means something is more imminent than 4 weeks away (if I went to 42 weeks) but ideally I would like the baby to hang in there for another couple of days. My Mum is not due to arrive from NZ until Monday 24th. She is coming for 3 weeks so if baby had already popped it would be perfect but I don't want it to be too early as DH and I would be on our own which for ages which is a bit of a scary prospect to me. I am seeing the consultant tomorrow and I am going to ask him to book me an induction for 7 days after my due date so that in the worst case my Mum is here for most of two weeks after the bubs comes.

Haven't heard anything more from the ante-natal Mum so I don't know how severe the downs sydrome is. Sprinkle, totally agree that your perspective is right and I would always have kept a baby with risk of downs for that reason but I think it is just sadness for what you thought you were having and how your life was going to be. Big mindset change really.

Hi all, am trying to catch up...
so glad all is going well ladylush - and talking about taking baby home is very exciting!
Glad most of the low lying placentas have moved and fingers crossed for you LJ, and re. mucus plugs... my Dr last time did an internal at each appt near the due date and I lost a bit of plug after each one.... just an fyi... as it really freaked me until my midwife reassured me.
I see 3 babies due in August it's all getting so close now... am a bit about actually knowing when baby/ies are coming.... it would be so much easier to know for DD childcare arrangements! the thought of having 2 weeks of m-i-l staying and then 2 weeks of mum staying with us in 2 bed apartment sounds claustraphobic and not that appealing , hey ho.
Still am on mat leave now, phew!

That's great news Ladyem, so happy for you

2 1/2 days left til I finish work, really tired now, will be sad to finish even though I'm going back but looking forward to having a rest. 35+3 today, getting close but still feel like ages to wait!!

Hi all!

Very excited, just got back from seeing my consultant and I am booked in for an induction on the 21st Aug!! So excited! It's the best of both worlds, really as I don't have to have a c-section, unless something goes wrong, but I also won't have to have that awful journey to the hospital while having contractions every couple of minutes like last time!!

Had the growth scan and the baby is already 6lbs 1oz! But that makes the birth weight smaller than DD, hence why I can go for induction and hopefully natural delivery!!

So happy!!

Ladylush - good to hear from you, and great news that DD might be home soon!

Neddie - great that you have a date, too! It's nice to have a timescale to work to, isn't it?!!

littlecheese - am off to look at la senza nursing bras now!! Thanks for the tip

Hope the rest of you are well and great that the low lying placentas are moving out of the way!! (LJ - fingers crossed for yours, too!!)

peachy - Love the name Zoe! I think it is really beautiful and classic. Also had Naomi on my short list, but DH loves the name Harriet, so think I have to let him have it!!

Sorry for rambling post, am too excited!!! Better get writing that birth plan!!

Thanks ladies, it its a relief. Fingers crossed for you next week LJ!

Ladylush glad to here your dd is doing well, hope she will be home with you soon.

I meant of course, ds's brio track, not biro. Just re-read my post

We have got DS a kids laptop from the baby. He will love it and I'm hoping its something that can keep him occupied whilst I'm feeding the baby rather than him getting into mischief . He can sit next to me and I can help him with it so he doesn't feel like he is missing attention. Well that's the plan!

Thusnelda - thanks for updating the stats

ooo just found that la senza do nursing bras online and have some nice ones

Hi all
I lost a mucus plug quite early last time and nothing happened. 36 weeeks IIRC.
The cervix will produce more and plug itself up again

BUT as Blue76 says If there is blood in it or if it is a greeny brown colour it could be meconium and will need checking out so ring the labour ward

I think we have pretty much decided on Zoe (dh is adamant with the umlaut but I can't find out how to type it)DD is Maya and I think they go I also like Naomi But Dh does not.
If it unexpectedly turns out to be a boy it could be Adam.

Welcome back Ladylush. Great news about your DD.
Low lying placenta ladies two of my friends have had this and both theirs moved.

We are still thinking about the present for DD. She has been going on and on about an Ellie from Pocoyo toy, so it may be one of those.

neddie how exciting that you know when you will have your babies. I would love to know when this little one is going to arrive.

I wouldnt know what a normal weight gain for twins is but surely 5 stoneish must be about right, 2 babies + 2 placentas + 2 lots of water?