November 6, 2003: Migraine

It has been a rough couple of weeks to end my 1st trimester. Last night I had a migraine. I haven't had one in ages. Now there is no drug I am willing to take for this...there are none that are safe for pregnancy. So, I made an appointment with the chiropractor first thing this morning, and I think it really helps.

November 3, 2003: Sinus Infection

Yes, it's a sinus infection. I've been prescribed antibiotics and Flonase to help with the congestion through the pregnancy. It's funny...with Zander I took almost no medication at all. I would have never taken the Flonase. This time, I am trying to strike a balance between no meds and things that will help me feel better. I think it has a lot to do with being able to get some sleep.

I've been going to Keva Juice daily for smoothies with a protein boost. It's a tasty way to get more protein and a smoothie is something I can always have when nothing else sounds good to eat.

November 1, 2003: Congestion, Congestion...

I've had what I thought was a cold for the past 2 weeks now, and it just won't go away. I know that congestion and headaches can be a normal part of pregnancy, but this is not normal.

Doug and I listened to the heartbeat together tonight. And I actually found it long enough to count and it was 163 beats per minute.

October 27, 2003: There It Is...

After we put Zander to bed, I sat in the chair with the doppler and was able to find the heartbeat right away. Hopefully it will be that way from now on. With Zander, I listened to the heartbeat every day. I am trying to be less paranoid with this pregnancy, so I'll just see if I can feel okay listening a 2-3 times a week. Which shouldn't be too hard to do since Zander takes up most of my time.

They give you this special ultrasound gel to use with the doppler, but I found that aloe vera gel works just as well, and can be used as a moisturizer afterwards. And it's much cheaper...especially at the dollar store.

October 24, 2003: It's Not Just Me...

For the past week, I've been trying to find the heartbeat, and have only been able to find twice - both times it was after much searching, and then I only heard it for about 15 seconds before I lost it, never to be found again during each attempt. It's frustrating.

So, I feel somewhat better when Dr. Baer is unable to find it with his doppler. Since I'm prone to miscarriage, he reassures me with another quick ultrasound. There's the heartbeat! And the baby is still tucked under my pelvic bone, which is why it has been so difficult to find the heartbeat. In the next week or so, it should become easier to find.

I'm still having trouble finding things I like to eat...so I've been eating grilled cheese sandwiches, an occasional Wendy's burger and Chipotle chicken tacos.

Zander's first birthday is tomorrow! So, everyone we haven't told yet will be told about our big news.

October 18, 2003: Found It!

It took a while this morning, but I finally found the heartbeat! Doug happened to walk in just as I found it, so we both got to hear it. That was a relief.

October 17, 2003: Classic First Trimester Symptoms

All the classic first trimester woes:
- Morning sickness, which lasts all day, but I don't actually get sick, just feel nauseated constantly
- Heartburn, no matter how bland my diet is
- Extreme fatigue, having a one-year old to chase around is not helping matters!
- Food aversions, I have no desire to eat any kind of meat. I rely on nuts and cheese for protein

October 15, 2003: Home Doppler

I got a home doppler from FetalBond again, but am having trouble finding the heartbeat. With Zander, I was able to find the heartbeat right away at 10 weeks 4 days, and then every day after that, no problem. This baby is a little more shy than Zander was. I'm not yet 11 weeks, so I'm trying not to freak out because I know that it's hard to find the heartbeat easily until after 12-14 weeks.

October 8, 2003: Second Ultrasound

Another ultrasound to see how things are going, this time with the actual ultrasound technician. She even let us hear the heartbeat this time. Everything looks good and measuring right on target at 9 weeks, 5 days.

I called my mom and dad today and let them know about the pregnancy. They were very excited! Doug is going to call his mom and dad and let them know as well.

September 26, 2003: First Ultrasound

We went to our first appointment today. Zander came along, too. We had a quick ultrasound to determine how far along I am, and I measured at 8 weeks! Almost 2 complete months, and just 2 weeks away from getting past the dates of both times I miscarried. We saw the heartbeat. Zander watched the screen intently during the ultrasound. I wonder if he has any idea what is going on? I was given a due date of May 7. Doug's birthday is May 17th and Doug's mom's birthday is May 8.

September 23, 2003: Progesterone and Baby Aspirin

My first appointment will be on Friday, September 26. In the meantime, I can start on baby aspirin and progesterone to try and prevent miscarriage. I need to pick up the progesterone at the doctor's office. I don't know how I am going to make it through the week.

September 22, 2003: Positive Pregnancy Test

This morning we found out that we are pregnant! This was totally unexpected, but not unwelcome, news. I have no idea at all how far along I could be. I'll have to call Dr. Baer tomorrow to make an appointment. Wow.