Week 17

Welcome to Karissa who has actually subscribed to our blog, although since we really haven't told anyone about it, I'm not sure how anyone could subscribe to it :-)

Things are progressing along quite well, I think.  We don't have another appointment until the 17th, so we have only the book to go by with the progress of our baby.  It says we are now at 4.5 - 4.75 inches, and if you lay your hand flat, that's about the size of the baby.  We haven't felt any movements yet, but this is the earliest stage at which we should feel movements.  So, hopefully soon we will.  I can't wait to go to the Doc's on the 17th to hear the heartbeat and get a new picture of the little one.

Here's something that you'll want to read Rebecca, the pain in your side you've been feeling occasionally, it is called Round-Ligament Pain.  Here's the quote: "round ligaments are attached to the sides of the uterus and pelvic wall, during pregnancy and the growth of the uterus, these ligaments are stretched and pulled.  Your movements can stretch and pull these ligaments, causing pain or discomfort.  It doesn't signal a problem, it only indicates your uterus is growing (that's good to know).  Pain may be on one side or both sides, and doesn't harm either you or the baby.  Laying down can relieve the pain."

Tip for week 17 - Leg cramps, which you don't have but you do have restless legs, can be diminished by laying on your side and with careful stretching exercises.  Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, which will help reduce cramping, so I'm glad we've started eating them.

Dad Tip - Offer your wife tension-relieving muscle-relaxing head, back and foot massages.

The book talks about a lot of other stuff this week.  It focuses quite a bit on a Vegetarian diet and the do's and don'ts of such a diet while pregnant.  Then it talks of a Doula.  I had never heard of this.  A doula is basically a woman you pay to help you through the pregnancy in place of your husband and/or mother.  I think this is directed more at single mothers or those with incredibly un-supportive husbands.  Then there is a long list of 'alternative' techniques.

Exercise for Week 17 - sit on the floor with your legs out in front of you and 'walk' forward on your buttocks a few paces and then 'walk' back to the starting spot.  This strengthens your abs and lower-back muscles.

Babe, I can't wait until you're done with your proficiency exam so that we can focus on each other and focus on getting our home ready for the coming baby.  Sure, we've got 5 months to go, but that time will fly by in a hurry.

Love to you!