Hi all, just catching up - Amazing bump pics - so cute to see everyone. I def feel like bump has popped out, even when I lie down there a little hillock there popping out. My DC loves chatting to it, really sweet. He's been a great influence of joy in this pregnancy. I was terrified he would feel sidelined or something but honestly it feels like we are all in this together.
Re feeding stories: It's been so helpful to read yours. With my first DC this was the hardest part of it all, I wasn't prepared (spent forever prepping for birth!). I had a really tough few weeks but was determined to breastfeed. Me and DH had a bit of formula in the house at one point just in case, but I was determined to continue with the BF as I've heard that supply relies on demand (so if you supplement it can hurt your supply). I did have a few tearful nights, my nips were AGONY at about 2 weeks, and baby wanted to drink every hour for 45 minutes. I ended up expressing exclusively and bottle feeding for 78 hours. IT was the best thing ever, my nips healed completely and I was able to get him back on the boob afterwards! Nip cream and cold cabbage leaves are a must also, they got me through the worst of the milk coming in.
RE: collumstrum harvesting... I've never heard of this?! do you just produce endless amounts until baby comes and milk comes in?
@Poppypip1 @TotoAnnihiliation I feel the same re bad body image guys - though I don't have the added stress of GD so I really feel for you. But I have already put on 10kg! Can you believe? I feel like that's huge. I keep eating pasta at night, it's all I ever want. I've been 'trying' to be more conscious of food- did someone mention us making an exercise accountability thread for those wanting to do more movement because I need that- I've booked 3 gym sessions and missed them all [hmmm]. I know that labour is so physically intense and I just don't want to spend the rest of this pregnancy not caring for my body. I felt a bit grotty in the last trimester last time, just sooooo uncomfortable and large and unfit so.. it would be great to avoid that this time. Anyhoo I'd be super up for that!
@stimpyyouidiot- eek re kicking- I can also feel it, mostly first thing and at night when I'm ready bedtime stories with my DC. I really feel like they've gotten more regular and stronger this week too (17+6 today).
@Famii hope you are feeling less anxious. Are you able to get a private scan? I have been cramping a lot this week especially have sleeping with DH or my sparse work outs - are you very active? Hope you're feeling ok.