37 week check up!

On Thursday, I had my 37 week check up with my midwives. I can't believe I'm in the homestretch! I'm so excited! The baby is doing great. Her heart beat was in the 150's, she was moving around a lot, and my belly was measuring around 35cm.

Fundal height 

I was pretty concerned that I was measuring small for a couple weeks in a row now. The midwives reassured me that measurements within 2 weeks of the gestational age is completely normal. She said one time she had a mom who was 40 weeks and measuring at 34cm, and ended up having a healthy 8lb baby! Also, I'm probably measuring smaller because the baby has dropped lower in my pelvis, reducing the "fundal height". Other reasons could be that I'm just simply carrying this baby differently. Baby girls can sometimes be smaller than boys. I also discovered that I have gestational diabetes with this pregnancy, so I've been watching my diet a lot more...therefore making me less bloated ;) I've gained 19lbs with this pregnancy and with Tucker's 33lbs. I'm not complaining! It'll be easier to lose the weight this time around. Pregnant women only need an extra 300 calories/day. The "eating for 2" belief is definitely false.

My midwife also told me to not get my I hopes up, but the baby's head is very low and I could potentially go into labor any day. We'll see! The house is already to go and we have all the items we need for the home birth and a newborn. The anticipation is killing me! The midwives suggested that I have some fun and enjoy these last few days/weeks. I purposely didn't plan much for August, but I'm thinking now I need to plan some more outings/activities to get my mind off of the birth. Zach and I decided to go on a date tonight. Maybe mini golf? We don't get out much together and it will definitely be harder once the new baby arrives.

2 nights ago I was rudely awakened by terrible leg cramps in my calves. It was extremely painful. I was screaming in pain. Zach thought I was in labor! The midwives recommended a magnesium supplement. I started taking it the same day, but haven't noticed a difference in the pain yet. My calves are still sore from those 2 cramps. It probably takes a while for the magnesium to accumulate in my body. Thankfully I haven't had any more cramps since then, just lingering pain. I've also been nauseous all day...ugh.

Excitedly awaiting!

(37 week pic coming soon!)

Pregnancy Questionnaire
How far along? 37 weeks

Due date or "guess date": Somewhere around August 30th, 2012
Baby #? 2nd child
Symptoms? Very strong sensation of the baby's head low in my pelvis, Braxton Hicks contractions, frequent urination, leg cramps, nausea and indigestion.
Fetal Movement? Yes, but really only when I lay down or am very still.
Cravings? Fish, steak, burgers, ice cream, pasta...
Gender of baby: GIRL
Doctor or Midwife: A Certified Nurse Midwife(Debbie), a Certified Prof Midwife(Emma), and a CPM apprentice(Lovesta). Plus, a doula(Megan)!
Hospital or home birth? Planned home birth
Mood? Excited!
Recent news: We moved Tucker into his toddler bed(Converted the crib). He loves it and its been an easy transition! Thank God!
Looking forward to: Holding my baby girl in my arms