Day 3 Update 1

Slept pretty good although had bad cramping. Thank God for the Ambien though. I was knocked out until 3am and then up a few times until finally waking up for good around 7:30am. When they checked me at 7:30 they discovered that I am 1cm but the baby is still REALLY high. So they decided to put in another gel in to further soften my cervix. Since I've had that gel I'm cramping/contracting all over the place. They're not regular but they're very uncomfortable and although I know they're nothing next to real labor contractions -- they're hurty enough, thank you.

They'll check me soon (probably around 11:30am or noon) and then do the Pitocin. If the baby is still super high they might decide to scratch the induction and just do a C-Section. If I have a C-section it will be later tonight because they have 5 already scheduled today. Basically, it's all up in the air.

I'm fine with whatever. I'm on IV and just making it through.

More later -- if I can stand it!

Day 2 Update 3

So much has happend so fast in the last 2 days my head is spinning!

So, my urine came back with a mild amount of protein in it (bad) but the baby came back from the sonogram a good size. So -- they've decided that instead of sending me home to just get sicker (higher BPs, more protein, higher levels of all the other labs) and risk a devastating health issue for me and the baby -- that they'd rather just deliver the baby now.

FINE BY ME!

They've been gracious enough to let me try to delivery vaginally. The cards are stacked against me though because A) my cervix didn't naturally dilate B) my baby is "sky high" in the birth canal C) I'm being induced. So all the stars will have to be aligned tomorrow for me to have a successful vaginal birth.

Worst case -- C-Section. At this point I don't care if they have to delivery by C-Section as long as it's medically necessary. I am happy that the doctors and nurses are letting me try to deliver vaginally. I feel somewhat bad that I'm forcing the baby out of it's warm womb so early ...(as I type this I'm hearing a lady next door deliver her baby and I'm getting more excited..) but at the same time I agree it doesn't make much sense to risk the complications of Preeclampsia.

Tomorrow morning I start with the pitocin. Then the hard stuff starts! I wonder how long it will take? Eons?

(Ok...now the lady screaming and crying in the next room is starting to freak me out.......maybe this baby can stay in there for a few more weeks???)

Day 2 Update 2

Just had sonogram!!! So fun! They said baby is 7lbs and 11oz! And that my cervix is still intact and my mucous plug is still in there. So...I just need to wait!

Day 2 Update

My labs from today came back "OK". Still high in some areas but not terrible enough to do an emergency c-section or induce. I have 2 hurdles to get through today:

#1 - 24 hour urinalysis
#2 - Sonogram (weight check and fluid check)

If I fail one of the two hurdles -- they'll deliver the baby today via c-section. If I pass the two hurdles they'll send me home on bed rest. I will then have to go to the OBGYN on Monday, Wednesday and Friday for BP checks and cervical checks. As the doctor says, there "is no cure for this condition except delivery" so they want this baby out if my symptoms don't subside.

If I was dilated at all they'd just induce me now but I'm not. My cervix is still slammed shut so the baby is just not ready. I'm fine with a c-section as long as it's medically necessary. If not, and my symptoms are manageable by bed rest, I'd rather wait to see if I can deliver vaginally.


On the upside: My ankles look ROCKIN after all this laying around!

I'm feeling good. The baby has looked really good on all the fetal monitors.

Praise the Lord for Wireless Internet at Alexandria Hospital!

Hospital Evening 1

I just spent my first night in the hospital since I was born. I had a little bit of a hard time getting to sleep, which for me is surprising. Normally I can sleep anywhere. I knew once I got to sleep I would be fine. I tried reading which usually works like a champ but I guess my brains were working too hard. So I eventually just turned off everything and tried a relaxation breathing technique that they taught us in our L&D prep class and it worked.

Braxton Hicks Contractions were pretty annoying last night. I would say the worst they've been thus far. It seems to me that they've been stronger and more frequent since I got to the hospital but I have a sneakin suspicion that I'm just noticing them more because I'm not up and about. They told me they'd give me something to help me sleep if the contractions got too distracting -- but I'm still working on ignoring them. I guess my thought process is "if you're not going to do anything for ME I'm not going to aknowledge you". Stubborn streak? Me? Nooo..........

It's 6:35am and they just took my blood to the lab. SO CURIOUS to see how my results come back. Last night before I fell asleep, after hours of relaxing in bed, my blood pressure was higher than ever before. I can't remember the bottom number but the top number was 145.....doesn't make sense to me...but they reminded me that is why I'm here....

More in a bit! Thankfully I have this blog to check in to. It helps pass the time so I'll probably update all day.

38 Weeks

Stuff below from www.babycenter.com

My comments in green!


How your baby's growing:



Your baby has really plumped up. She weighs about 6.8 pounds and she's over 19 1/2 inches long (like a leek Leek soup is one of my favorite soups ever!). She has a firm grasp That s/he clings to my bladder with?, which you'll soon be able to test when you hold her hand for the first time! Her organs have matured and are ready for life outside the womb. Then I think it's time! But maybe that's just me?

Wondering what color your baby's eyes will be? You may not be able to tell right away. If she's born with brown eyes, they'll likely stay brown. Brown is my guess but I would love for green! If she's born with steel gray or dark blue eyes, they may stay gray or blue or turn green, hazel, or brown by the time she's 9 months old. That's because a child's irises (the colored part of the eye) may gain more pigment in the months after she's born, but they usually won't get "lighter" or more blue. (Green, hazel, and brown eyes have more pigment than gray or blue eyes.)

How your life's changing:

For many women, the next couple of weeks are a waiting game. You can say that again! Use this time to prepare your baby's nursery Pretty much done! Daddy has a few more things to do..or to take care of necessary tasks you may not get around to for a while after your baby's born changed my sheets, finished up laundry, now just need to clean the house -- but when is that not the case?. Take naps check!, catch up on your reading check!, and spend uninterrupted time with your partner while you can Hospitals are great for this! hahah!.

Some swelling in your feet and ankles is normal during these last weeks Did you say "last 20 weeks?" because that's how long it's been since I've seen my true ankles, but call your practitioner without delay if you notice excessive or sudden swelling of your feet or ankles, more than slight swelling of your hands, any swelling in your face or puffiness around your eyes, or have a sudden weight gain. Also let her know immediately if have severe or persistent headaches; visual changes (such as double or blurred vision, seeing spots or flashing lights, light sensitivity, or a temporary loss of vision), intense upper abdominal pain or tenderness, or nausea and vomiting. These are symptoms of a serious condition called preeclampsia. Odd, I have none of these symptoms but yet I'm in the hospital for possible signs of preeclampsia. Hmmm....

DRAMA

I had my 38 week appointment today at 12:45 and all I wanted was a little dilation! Turns out they didn't even "check" me! Instead they put me in the slammer over night for complications possibly due to highish blood pressure. =/

My blood pressure was 135/84 and apparently that's higher than my normal BP. It is the same highish BP that it was last week. I guess they don't "play" when it comes to highish BP in pregnancy.

I will go in to more details tomorrow but for now you should know that I'm at the hospital being closely monitored by the lovely staff at Alexandria Labor & Delivery. They are keeping me until at least 2pm tomorrow. If my levels are still high they'll induce me.

They are doing something called a "24 Hour Urine" which means I pee in a milk jug for 24 hours and then they take the whole container to the lab. Then they'll also do the normal 5 tubes of blood in the morning. Labs labs labs.

I'm happy to be here safe with the nurses at Alexandria L&D. It's just like being at the Holiday Inn but there's no pool...and no bar either.

More in the morning!

Bookends

So here is my idea for the book ends. I'm going to paint two of these here pigs and fill them with pennies. Ta-da! It's not the MOST creative idea but it's cheap and it's easy. The 3rd bank will go to a friend as a gift.

Bassinet Pics

The pictures do NOT do this lovely little piece Justice. First of all that's not just white fabric, it's white with pastel A, B, C's on it. Second, that's a light blue bow. BEFORE YOU FREAK OUT - We have a pink one too -- we're just going to put the appropriate color on once the baby gets here.

Rockin the bassinet in this picture is my 31 year old Paddington Bear who has lost his clothes over the years and now just prefers to lay around in the nude. Also, the bottoms of his feet have been replaced a few times. Eric refers to this loving animal as "gross" but I think it's clear that he's just as cute as can be! And he looks good in the bassinet too! Paddington, for your information, only weighs a mere 2.1 lbs and is 18 inches long. He's a good baby.

Pressure Disappeared

It took me a while to get to sleep last night because of the pelvic pressure but once I did I slept pretty hard. I got up about 5 times to pee and on the 4th one I lost my balance and hit the wall. Woops!

I woke up this morning and my pelvic pressure had disappeared. Boo. I'm hoping it comes back!

Pelvic Pressure

Tonight I'm feeling an uncomfortable pelvic pressure! It's painful but I'm trying to focus on the fact that it's probably the baby decending farther in to the birth canal! I took a nap to see if it would go away but it's still here so I'm thinking it's going to stay and might get worse? Whatever the case I'm taking it is an exciting happening! Can't wait until my appointment on Wednesday! Hope that I get good news about the baby having made some progress!!!

Bassinet

Eric's Mom finished the bassinet and it looks AMAZING! I love it! If only there was a baby to put in it!

**Pictures to follow.....

Bookends

I'm on the search for book ends for the baby's room. It's so hard to find a bookend for a baby's room -- much less a gender neutral one. EVERYTHING these days is either Cars or Princesses. So I'm on the look out for a craft project to create my own book ends! And I think I found it!

Pictures to follow!

And I Cried

Yesterday we stopped at the grocery store so I could get something to eat on the way to Milton and Jen's. Something salt-free. EVERYTHING has salt in it. YOGURT has salt in it. My options were carrots and fruit. Seriously.

So I grabbed two melons and put them on the counter as Eric loads up his yummy looking hoagie with deli meat and cheese (salt, salt on top of salt) and his box of twinkies (salt, fat, sugar). Once small thought about my pathetic melon dinner vs his hoagie and I started to bawl. And this was one of those times where I knew it wasn't just going to be a quick cry. I was going to sob. Loudly. And there was NOTHING I could do to stop it. So, I looked at Eric with tears in my eyes and said, "I have to go to the car." Problem was, I couldn't escape because my belly was so big that I couldn't get between the cart and the gum stand. So then I reeeeeally started to cry. Meanwhile, Eric's trying his hardest to maneuver the cart out of my way. I ended up bulldozing Eric and the cart and fled the store as fast as my fat legs could waddle me.

Once in the car I just let it go and in the end I felt better. Being 9 mos pregnant is the pits without being unable to just eat when you're hungry. The scene was rediculous. I settled for a veggie sandwich at Subway - plain.

Dear Baby -- please stop making Mommy cry!

I'm A Vision

It's been a long week.

I'm naked, eating a lime popcycle, laying under the ceiling fan in my room. It doesn't get more 9 mos pregnant looking than that! Hahahah!

Turned A Corner

I seem to have turned a corner over the last week or so. Strangers are coming up to me now and commenting on how "ready" I look, seem and/or must be. Today the cashier at the Harris Teeter asked me when I was due and when I told her 3 weeks she said, "ugh-huh. That baby is 8 pounds already." Wow! I couldn't help but look down and think, Really?

Then another woman at the nail place said, "you're about to have that baby huh?" I said, "Ya, three weeks until my due date but I'm ready" and she said, "You LOOK ready." Not sure what that means.

A guy who came to move some office furniture for me yesterday took one look at me and said, "You're about ready to pop."

Several people, too many to name, have gasped in shock over the news that I have 3 weeks left. Everyone seems to think that the baby will come early. I'm trying not to listen because I don't want to get my hopes up. I have come to terms with the fact that first time Moms rarely deliver early and they are most often LATE. That being said, if this really IS an 8lb baby -- it needs to get a move on!

Another Clothing Update

So the bag of clothing that my co-worker gave me produced 3 shirts I can wear out of 14 total shirts. That's hilarious.

2 shirts I can wear to work and 1 of the shirts is an after work/weekends only top. It's a little boobalicious and a tank top. It would be perfect for picnics but a little much for the work place.

37 Weeks - FULL TERM!

How your baby's growing:

Congratulations — your baby is full term! Hip hip hooray! We made it! The baby is done growing and can come at any time -- not that I'm under any delusions that it will come before 40 weeks, mind you. I won't be surprised if baby holds out to 42 weeks -- but the chunk of this pregnancy is over and we will soon be in baby land. This means that if your baby arrives now, his lungs should be fully mature and ready to adjust to life outside the womb, even though your due date is still three weeks away.

Your baby weighs 6 1/3 pounds I'm insistent that baby can not come out until it's over 6lbs. I do not want a baby that is under 7 lbs. If that's the case -- they can stuff it back in and call me when it's done. I don't look this way for some teeny tiny baby! and measures a bit over 19 inches, head to heel (like a stalk of Swiss chard). Many babies have a full head of hair at birth, with locks from 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inches long. But don't be surprised if your baby's hair isn't the same color as yours. Funny, of all the things I've dreamed about the hair is not something I've thought about at all! Maybe ours will be bald? Dark-haired couples are sometimes thrown for a loop when their children come out as blonds or redheads, and fair-haired couples have been surprised by Elvis look-alikes. And then, of course, some babies sport only peach fuzz.

How your life's changing:

Braxton Hicks contractions may be coming more frequently now Yes, but I ignore them and may last longer and be more uncomfortable. Yes, I have learned that laying in bed and reading helps me to pretend they're not happening. =) You might also notice an increase in vaginal discharge. Not even I want to talk about this subject if you can believe that! If you see some "bloody show" (mucus tinged with a tiny amount of blood) in the toilet or in your undies, labor is probably a few days away — or less. Hasn't happened but I'm waiting! (If you have heavier spotting or bleeding, call your caregiver immediately.) Also be sure to ask your caregiver about the results of your Group B strep culture. Negative!!! That way, if the result isn't yet on your chart when you get to the hospital or birth center, you'll be able to give the staff there a timely heads-up if you need antibiotics.

It may be harder than ever to get comfortable enough to sleep well at night. Not for me! If you can, take it easy through the day — this may be your last chance to do so for quite a while. That's the plan. We have office construction here so I'm able to work from home over the next week or so for a few days. That will keep me off my feet at least. Keep monitoring your baby's movements, too, and let your caregiver know immediately if you notice a decrease. Though her quarters are getting cozy, she should still be as active as before.

While you're sleeping, you're likely to have some intense dreams. Anxiety both about labor and about becoming a parent can fuel a lot of strange flights of unconscious fancy. I already have crazy dreams. Nothing really bizarre to report.


Surprising Facts:

Signs of labor
There's no way to predict when labor is going to start. Your body actually starts "preparing" for labor up to a month before you give birth. You may be blissfully unaware of what's going on or you may begin to notice new symptoms as your due date draws near.

Here are some things that may happen in the weeks or days before labor starts:

• Your baby drops. If this is your first pregnancy, you may feel what's known as "lightening" a few weeks before labor starts as your baby descends lower into your pelvis. You might detect a heaviness in your pelvis as this happens and notice less pressure just below your ribcage, making it easier to catch your breath. I feel like something has changed because I'm getting kicks VERY low. My tendons in my hip/groin area feel pulled or stretched. I'm not sure though if this is "lightening" or not.

• You note an uptick in Braxton Hicks contractions. More frequent and intense Braxton Hicks contractions can signal pre-labor, during which your cervix ripens and the stage is set for true labor. Some women experience a crampy, menstrual-like feeling during this time. No menstrual craps but the rest is true.

• You pass your mucus plug. The mucus plug is the small amount of thickened mucus that blocks the cervical canal leading to your uterus. The plug may come out all at once in a lump, or as increased vaginal discharge over the course of several days. The mucus may be tinged with blood (which may be brown, pink, or red), in which case it may be referred to as "bloody show." Nothing yet!

• Your water breaks. Most women start having regular contractions sometime before their water breaks, but in some cases, the water breaks first. When this happens, labor usually follows soon. (If contractions don't start promptly on their own, you'll be induced.) Whether the amniotic fluid comes out in a large gush or a small trickle, call your doctor or midwife. Nope!

Doctor Appointment

Went in for 37 week check up today. At 37 weeks (officially tomorrow) the baby is FULL TERM. So that means that the baby could really come at any time now. The bun is done cooking now we're just waiting for our little one to "catch a wave" and ride on in. Gently and with ease. And pain free. With little to know labor on my part. Ahhh...wishful thinking!

Yes, any time now is medically fine but I'm under strict instruction from my friend Jen that I'm not to have this baby before the end of next week (she's going to the beach and won't be here). I also can't have the baby between Aug. 4th and Aug. 11th (my Mother-In-Law & Father-In-Law will be out of town). Anybody else have any preferences? LOL

My blood pressure was normal to high today and combined with my swelling that makes the doctors nervous. They don't want me to get Pregnancy Induced Hypertension. If I get Pregnancy Induced Hypertension they'll have to induce me ASAP - or more likely -- take the baby via C-Section. So I've been instructed to "stay off my feet" as much as possible. NOT bed rest -- just no trips to the mall or the zoo. And I'm supposed to stay away from salt -- but for real this time. Eric said I'm "not allowed to eat anything but fresh veggies, fresh fruit and meat with no seasoning." SO LAME! I hate having to sneak food!

The doctor did not to an internal exam on me today and I was bummed about that. They will start checking under the hood again next week. The doctor did say my test for Strep B came back negative so I won't need the antibiotics during labor. Before she left she said, "I'll see you next week if not before!" which got me all excited! Then scared. Then excited again!

Clothing Update - Follow Up to Monday Post

A co-worker brought me in a bag of BIG maternity clothes that she said I can use for the next few weeks (she's due late September and doesn't fit them yet). Soooooo.....looks like I have more clothing options now! Yay!

Monday

Monday morning -- getting ready for work proved to be slightly emotional today. I have a very limited selection of outfits that I still fit in. Pants aren't the problem but tops are. At this point my brother's t-shirts aren't covering the belly completely and that's INSANE. I ended up finding something in the end but not after a few tears were shed. It reminded me of fat days in high school.

I ended up being 15 minutes late for work and my boss didn't say anything about it. He just looked at me happily and said, "How ya feeling today?!" to which I teared up a little when answering. He smiled at me sweetly and somehow I contained my full on melt down. I have already picked out my outfit for tomorrow so there shouldn't be any crying.

Elaine told me today that she's been working on the bassinet and it's almost done. She said she thinks it's super cute and I can't wait to see it!!! Pictures will be posted when the time comes.

I'm still having Braxton Hicks contractions. They're daily at this point. I've gotten very skilled at ignoring them. We'll see on Wednesday if they're doing anything to help the baby down in to the pelvis. I'm not asking for labor but a little movement south by the baby wouldn't hurt, right?

I've discovered my favorite thing to do during my 9th month of pregnancy is shower and take baths. It feels so good and takes me away from feeling heavy and ungraceful. I've also discovered a new way to get out of the bath on my own so I don't have to be afraid of being stuck in there if Eric isn't home. It requires some patience but it works! If I could use words to describe what I have to do to get out of the tub I'd be an amazing writer -- am not amazing. Just trust me when I say it's gotta be humorous if you're an onlooker.

Underneath all these complaints I'm feeling fine. I sorta equate all this to having a REAAAAALLLLY long PMS. I'm healthy, the baby is healthy, but some days I just feel like I'm in a fun house where everything (me, my butt, my ankles, my emotions) are distorted.

Thank God for loving husbands! I'm so thankful that Eric still loves and accepts his ever expanding wife who complains a lot and sleeps like a hibernating bear.

10 Things That Are Hard To Do With Numb Fingers

Here is a list of 10 things that are hard to do with numb fingers. Keep in mind that my numb fingers are on my right hand and I'm right handed.

1. Taking the caps off pens
2. Applying make up
3. Washing hair
4. Picking weggies
5. Putting on earrings
6. Retrieving chapstick from the bottom of your purse
7. Counting coins
8. Writing with a pen/pencil
9. Sorting pills/vitamins in to pill box
10. Using paperclips at work

I know there are more but these are just a few!

36 Weeks!

My comments in pale orange peachy. Info from http://www.babycenter.com/

How your baby's growing:

Your baby is still packing on the pounds My brother came over last night and said, "Whoa, you're HUGE. That's not what you looked like 2 weeks ago!" — at the rate of about an ounce a day. She now weighs almost 6 pounds (like a crenshaw melon 3 weeks of melons? CHEATING.) and is more than 18 1/2 inches long. She's shedding most of the downy covering of hair that covered her body as well as the vernix caseosa, the waxy substance that covered and protected her skin during her nine-month amniotic bath. Your baby swallows both of these substances, along with other secretions, resulting in a blackish mixture, called meconium, will form the contents of her first bowel movement One of my hopes is that baby had control and doesn't let the meconium go until after he/she comes out. If they poo inside of you then they won't put the baby on your chest when it comes out. Not a HUGE biggie but just a private hope of mine.

At the end of this week, your baby will be considered full-term. YIPEE!(Full-term is 37 to 42 weeks; babies born before 37 weeks are pre-term and those born after 42 are post-term.) Most likely she's in a head-down position. Yes, they said they're pretty sure the baby is in head down but definitely not in the pelvis yet. But if she isn't, your practitioner may suggest scheduling an "external cephalic version," which is a fancy way of saying she'll try to coax your baby into a head-down position by manipulating her from the outside of your belly. How nicely put! What they do is they twist and turn your belly, forcing the baby to move in to the head down position. It's not fun for the Mom and doesn't work really well.


How your life's changing:

Now that your baby is taking up so much room, you may have trouble eating a normal-size meal. Yes, it's sad. Smaller, more frequent meals are often easier to handle at this point. Yes, for example, snacks are good. Like the cookie I just ate for the baby. On the other hand, you may have less heartburn and have an easier time breathing when your baby starts to "drop" down into your pelvis. Per the doctor this hasn't happened yet. Which surprises me after I just spent 4 days on my feet cleaning the house. This process — called lightening — often happens a few weeks before labor if this is your first baby. (If you've given birth before, it probably won't happen before labor starts.) If your baby drops, you may also feel increased pressure in your lower abdomen, which may make walking increasingly uncomfortable, and you'll probably find that you have to pee even more frequently. I find it very hard to believe that I'll have to pee even more. As it is I pee about once every 30 minutes or more. My trips to the bathroom have increased a lot over the last month but I guess that's just from the pure weight of the child, not "lightening". If your baby is very low, you may feel lots of vaginal pressure and discomfort as well. Some women say it feels as though they're carrying a bowling ball between their legs! No, I still feel like I'm carrying my bowling ball on my lower back.

You might also notice that your Braxton Hicks contractions are more frequent now. Yesssssss!!!!Be sure to review the signs of labor with your practitioner and find out when she wants to hear from you. She said don't call me until it hurts. I'm going to stick with my Braxton Hicks article a few posts back that says, "Plan to go to the hospital when they are so strong that you cannot hold a conversation during one" by the way, did you see that the author of that article wrote to me in the comments section? Pretty neat, eh?As a general rule, if you're full-term, your pregnancy is uncomplicated, and your water hasn't broken, she'll probably have you wait to come in until you've been having contractions that last for about a minute each, coming every five minutes for an hour. Of course, you'll want to call right away if you notice a decrease in your baby's activity or think you're leaking amniotic fluid, or if you have any vaginal bleeding, fever, a severe or persistent headache, constant abdominal pain, or vision changes.

Even if you're enjoying an uncomplicated pregnancy, it's best to avoid flying (or any travel far from home) during your final month because you can go into labor at any time. In fact, some airlines won't let women on board who are due to deliver within 30 days of the flight. I'm going to my Mom and Dads this weekend and they live an hour and 15 minutes away. Technically, that's farther than I'm supposed to go but my Dad is prepared to deliver the baby in the back yard. He's warming towels, sheets and boiling water in preparation.

Surprising Facts: The stages of labor

For first-time moms, labor takes an average of 15 hours shhhhhhhhhhhh, though it's not uncommon to last more than 20 seriously, shhhhhhhh. (For women who've previously had a vaginal birth, it takes eight hours, on average.) The process of labor and birth is divided into three main stages. Here are the highlights on how childbirth progresses:

First stage

The first stage begins when you start having contractions that progressively dilate and efface your cervix and it ends when your cervix is fully dilated. This stage is divided into two phases, early and active labor.

It can be tricky to determine exactly when early labor starts. That's because early labor contractions are sometimes hard to distinguish from the inefficient Braxton Hicks contractions that you may have been feeling for some time.

Unless there are complications or your midwife or doctor has advised you otherwise, expect to sit out most of your early labor at home. This is my plan! I think I'd rather be at home with Eric, my TV, my hot tub, my Internet and the nursery for as long as I can. Sure beats sitting in the hospital! (Be sure, though, to check in with your caregiver to make certain.)

Early labor ends when your cervix is about 4 centimeters dilated and your progress starts to speed up. At this point, you enter what's known as the active phase of labor. Your contractions become more frequent, longer, and stronger. This is around the time they offer up epidurals. My personal goal is to wait until 6 cm before the epidural. I'd like to be able to walk around (i.e. encourage the baby to come way down in the birth canal) before I get stuck in the bed. I have no idea if I can do it since you can't really train for this type of thing but it's my goal.

The last part of the active phase — when your cervix dilates from 8 to 10 centimeters — is called the transition period because it marks the transition to the second stage of labor. This is also when it's too late for an epidural. I was told they'd give it to you if you ask for it but that the chances of missing the pain relief altogether are extremely high at this point. This is the most intense part of the first stage, with contractions that are usually very strong, coming about every two and a half to three minutes and lasting a minute or more.

Second stage

Once your cervix is fully dilated, the second stage of labor begins: the final descent and birth of your baby. This is the "pushing" stage of labor, and it can last anywhere from minutes to a few hours. (It's likely to be quicker if you've previously given birth vaginally.) Again, I wish I could train for this! I want to be a good pusher. I know first time Moms are usually not considered "good pushers" and I'll just feel bad if I am told that my pushing isn't up to par.

Your baby's head will continue to advance with each push until it "crowns" — the term used to describe the time when the widest part of your baby's head is finally visible. After your baby's head comes out, your midwife or doctor will suction his mouth and nose, and feel around his neck for the umbilical cord. His head then turns to the side as his shoulders rotate inside the pelvis to get into position for their exit. With the next contraction, you'll be coached to push as his shoulders deliver, one at a time, followed by the rest of his body. Yay! This is when we find out if it's a boy or a girl!!!

You may feel a wide range of emotions now: euphoria, awe, pride, disbelief, excitement (to name a few), and, of course, intense relief that it's all over. Exhausted as you may be, you'll also probably feel a burst of energy, and any thoughts of sleep will vanish for the time being.

Stage three

The final stage of labor begins immediately after the birth of your baby and ends with the delivery of your placenta. The contractions in the third stage are relatively mild. I think it's dumb that they consider this a stage. Once I have my hands on the little devil I don't think there should be anymore stages. Who cares at that point?


This Week's Activity:

Create a grapevine. Make a list of all the people you want to hear about your baby's birth — with their phone numbers or e-mail addresses — and pass this along to a friend who can spread the news. DONE! That way, when you're ready for others to know, all you have to do is make one call. Include at least one person from work on the list, so they can spread the word there.

Doctor Appointment

Today I had my 36 week check up. It involved my first internal exam and a strep B test. I gained my normal 3 lbs and they pointed out AGAIN that I'm swollen. Um...Ya thanks.

My internal exam went well. She said she believes the baby is head down but it's not in the pelvis yet. Darn! So that means I'm not dilated and I'm not effaced, either. I know! I know! I have 4 weeks left but I just feel ready.

The strep B test was easy. Just a swab of the lady parts. In case you're wondering why the Strep B test I've copy and pasted a little tid-bit from thebump.com for you:

About 10-30 percent of pregnant women are carrying a bacterium called group B streptococcus (GBS). (Most have never had symptoms from it and don’t know it’s in there.) If do have the GBS bacteria floating around in your body (usually in your reproductive or digestive tracts) and aren’t aware, it can be passed on to your child during delivery, possibly leading to serious illness in baby’s first weeks of life.

Don’t get too freaked out -- If the bacteria is found on those swabs, you’ll be treated with antibiotics to help keep baby in the clear.

See? No sweat. I get the results back next week at my 37 week appointment.

Last night I had CRAZY Braxton Hicks contractions. I was very frustrated and uncomfortable. I did the laying down on the couch vs standing/walking thing and neither seemed to work. Then I drank a glass of cold water -- no luck. Finally I just went to bed and hoped to have better luck ignoring it. It worked because I eventually fell asleep. Frustrating to find out today that all that suffering and this little bugger isn't even in the pelvis yet!

In other news, I just ate lunch and I'm dying for a brownie. I leave you now so that I can go and search far and wide for the perfect brownie.

Dog Sitting

This weekend Deannie and Dean asked us to dog sit for them while they went off on some wild and crazy camping weekend in Maine. I was SO EXCITED! Since Eric was going to be busy with working on the garage and the gig that meant Casey was all mine! Casey and I have a lot in common, especially now that I'm in my 9th month.

1. Casey really likes peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and I really like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches
2. Casey likes four hour naps and I like four hour naps
3. Casey likes to lay around the house all day in the air conditioning and I like to lay around the house and do nothing in the air conditioning.

Another thing I appreciate about Casey is that when she thinks it's time to take a nap she expects EVERYONE to take a nap. So she'll whine until you do so and therefore I am FORCED to nap with her on command several times a day. It's hard work but someone's got to do it!

One thing we do differ in is the need for exercise. She likes at least one walk a day and, I'm sure you're not surprised, I do not. To be a good hostess I did put on my flip flops and take her out for one short-ish walk a day. Amazing how I waited until my 9th month to exercise! Ha!

We just got back from our last walk together and I decided to "map my run" on http://www.mapmyrun.com/ to see how far we actually went. I was mega impressed with myself when I realized that Casey and I did a little over a half a mile a day. Altogether we did 1.7 miles. Not bad for a big pregnant momma!

I'm proud and I'd write more but Casey says it's time for a nap!

Buy Buy Baby

This weekend I had a bunch of returns to make and some of the items I had to return were from Buy Buy Baby. Until yesterday I'd never been to Buy Buy Baby. What was I thinking? Wow! What a place! I'm tellin ya! First of all it's owned by the same people that own Bed Bath and Beyond so it's organized the same way, which I loved, AND they take Bed Bath and Beyond Coupons too. Second, the customer service is AMAZING. People everywhere asking if they can help you and then ....are you ready for this.....THEY ARE ACTUALLY HELPFUL! They know what they're talking about! I had a 10 minute conversation with a sales associate over the pros and cons of baby monitor brands. I didn't want to leave but when I did I felt really good about my purchases. It was truly amazing. From now on that's my one-stop-shop for baby stuff.

Baby's First Gig

Saturday night the baby and I went out to Eric's gig. It was my first gig pregnant... I think....it was at least my first gig being big and pregnant! I even got up and danced a song, and although that proved to be very exhausting and awkward, I was happy to support the band. I thank my luck stars that my Mother-In-Law didn't get that on video.....but maybe Aunt Kathy did??? I don't want to know. Eric looked over at me at one point and said, "Are you sure?" as in, "Are you sure dancing is a good idea in your state? Maybe you'll give birth on the dance floor? Wouldn't that be embarrassing??"

This gig was also my first time being big and pregnant and in a bar for an extended period of time. Wow! People loooove pregnant ladies when they're drunk! I got lots of belly touching which doesn't bother me but it is kind of funny when strangers do it. Especially drunk strangers. You never know if they're going to touch you gently or slam in to you. I also got a lot of, "WHAT! You have another whole MONTH!?" Ah..yes yes people..I'm going to get BIGGER! It's hard for even me to believe.

It was a good night. I stayed for 2 of the 3 sets which means I got home after midnight. It's been a good long time since I left the house at 9 to go out and came home after midnight!

35 Week Belly

20 Weeks
27 weeks

29 Weeks

31 weeks

35 weeks

Swollen Feet

Braxton Hicks

I've been having Braxton Hicks (a.k.a. False Labor) contractions for the last 3 weeks. Each week they seem to get stronger. I've heard Braxton Hicks Contractions described as "an annoying tight feeling" by several books and our teacher at the labor and delivery class. Mine ARE annoying but because they're getting stronger they're borderline painful.

Several people have asked me what are Braxton Hicks contractions? What's the difference between these and regular contractions? Etc. I figured I'd post an article about them and inject a little about what I'm expiriencing throughout. I found this article to be better than any of the others I've read.

Katie T. -- this article is a must read for you!

My comments in blue.

True vs. False Labor

by Lisa Rodriguez, R.N. and Marjorie Greenfield, M.D.
reviewed by Marjorie Greenfield, M.D.

"How will I know when it is REAL labor?" is a question many first-time moms have as they approach the end of the pregnancy. The mothers-to-be worry that the contractions may stop when they arrive at the hospital and they will be sent home. Conversely, many also worry that they will deliver at home or in the car on the way to the hospital if they wait too long.

What are Braxton-Hicks Contractions?

During the third trimester, your uterus begins to contract. It normally feels like a tightening or a low menstrual-like cramp. It may feel as if the baby is "balling up". Exactly! This, of course, is not the baby, but is your uterus generating that sensation. These early contractions are called Braxton-Hicks contractions, named after the obstetrician who first described them. Even Braxton-Hicks contractions can sometimes be painful. Per my earlier comments. This can be the confusing part about when to pay attention to them. Contractions in false labor may even come at regular 5-minute intervals, lasting about 30 seconds. Mine are almost exactly this -- 3-5 min apart lasting no more than 30-45 seconds. This may go on for hours. Even women who have had already had children go to the hospital thinking they are in real labor and find out is was a false alarm.

Here are a few guidelines when distinguishing true from false labor:

Timing of Contractions
• False Labor: Often irregular; not usually becoming closer together
• True Labor: Come regularly, usually 4-6 minutes apart and can become closer together. Usually last 30-70 seconds.

Strength of Contractions
• False Labor: Frequently weak; not getting stronger with time, or alternately, a strong contraction followed by weaker ones.
• True Labor: Become stronger with time. You may also feel vaginal pressure

Pain with Contractions
• False Labor: Usually felt in the front only.
• True Labor: Can start in the back and move to the front. I have felt front/back in my false labor.

Position Changes and Hydration
• False Labor: Contractions may stop or slow down when you walk, lie down, change position or increase your fluid intake. This usually works! Only one night I switched from walking to laying down and they stuck around for a while but I eventually fell asleep so they must have gone away!
• True Labor: Contractions continue no matter what position changes you make or how much you drink.

Should I Stay or Should I Go?

If you are less than 35 weeks pregnant and you have regular contractions lasting more than thirty seconds and occurring more than 4-6 times an hour, try resting and drinking lots of fluids. If the contractions don't settle down with these changes in activity, call your practitioner. The signs of preterm labor can be subtle, and should be evaluated.

Once you are past 36 weeks, if this is a first pregnancy, you are much more likely to go in to your birth place too early rather than too late. Don't time contractions until they are very strong and regular. Plan to go to the hospital when they are so strong that you cannot hold a conversation during one, This is my new rule of thumb! Love it! closer than 5 minutes apart, and continue in that pattern for over an hour. For women who have given birth before, we recommend using your previous labor as a guideline. On average, second babies come in half the time it took for the first. Subsequent pregnancies are usually similar to the second one.

If you just aren't sure whether it is false or real labor, don't feel bad going into labor and delivery to be examined. Your practitioner and the nurses there see many women each day in false labor. Sometimes it is even hard for the professionals to distinguish if it is the real thing.

Child Safety Seat Inspection

It was recommended to us to have our child's safety seat inspected by the police or fire department before the baby comes. They mentioned it in our Labor and Delivery class but I have also gotten that advice from friends. I realize some of you might think it's overkill but to me it just seems like such an easy way to bring peace of mind AND SAFETY.

There are only so many officers in our area that are certified Child Safety Seat Inspectors so it can be a challenge to get an appointment. When I called the department listed and left a message about scheduling an appointment the answering machine said it would take up to 5 days to get a return call. I must admit I was slightly nervous about not being able to see someone until after the baby's due date. Luckily though, mine came in today from a very upbeat officer who was ready and willing to help! The phone rings and I answer it and he says *So happily*, "Hi! This is officer Buckles calling about your child safety seat inspection!" I want to respond but I'm so caught up with the fact that the man said his name is "Officer Buckles" that I couldn't speak. Is that for real? Is his name REALLY Officer Buckles and he works in Child Safety Seat Inspections?

I really must know.

To be continued....

.........my appointment is July 18th at 10am with Officer Buckles.

35 Weeks!

This is the last week of my 8th month. Wow! Tomorrow I officially start my 9th month. I can honestly say that being here, 8/9 months pregnant, is really a trip! Pregnancy was always something I dreamed about happening to us one day and now we're living it and it's fun, hard, exhausting, exciting all at once! One minute I can't believe I have to wait another 5 weeks (or more) for baby to come and the next minute I'm scared because there's only 5 more weeks for baby to come. It's an interesting roller coaster to say the least!!

How your baby's growing:

Your baby doesn't have much room to maneuver now that he's over 18 inches long and tips the scales at 5 1/4 pounds (pick up a honeydew melon). Because it's so snug in your womb, he isn't likely to be doing somersaults anymore I really feels like he/she is doing somersaults in there --which makes me wonder -- is this a small baby? It better not be! , but the number of times he kicks should remain about the same. His kidneys are fully developed now, and his liver can process some waste products. Most of his basic physical development is now complete — he'll spend the next few weeks putting on weight Chunk up baby!.

How your life's changing:

Your uterus Oh, you mean that big engorged organ that is protruding out from under all my shirts? — which was entirely tucked away inside your pelvis when you conceived — now reaches up under your rib cage. Ya don't say...If you could peek inside your womb, you'd see that there's more baby than amniotic fluid in there now. I really hope so. I truly do want a nice sized baby. Somewhere between 7-8.5 lbs. I get worried that this is mostly amniotic fluid sometimes. Especially since there is still so much movement! Your ballooning uterus is crowding your other internal organs, too, which is why you probably have to urinate more often YES! I keep feeling like I might have a UTI and then I realize it's just the baby playing trampoline on my bladder and may be dealing with heartburn and other gastrointestinal distress mild, but yes. I'm not sleeping sitting up or anything from heartburn. If you're not grappling with these annoyances, you're one of the lucky few.


From here on out, you'll start seeing your practitioner every week. Next Wednesday is my 36 week appointment where they will start my internal exams. Sometime between now and 37 weeks, she'll do a vaginal and rectal culture rectal? Is it too late to back out of this pregnancy? to check for bacteria called Group B streptococci (GBS). (Don't worry — the swab is the size of a regular cotton swab, and it won't hurt at all. Sorry, I have a problem with things going in my rear end, regardless of the size!) GBS is usually harmless in adults, but if you have it and pass it on to your baby during birth, it can cause serious complications, such as pneumonia, meningitis, or a blood infection. Because 10 to 30 percent of pregnant women have the bacteria and don't know it, it's vital to be screened. (The bacteria come and go on their own — that's why you weren't screened earlier in pregnancy.) If you're a GBS carrier, you'll get IV antibiotics during labor, which will greatly reduce your baby's risk of infection.

This is also a good time to create a birth plan. I've decided not to do this on this pregnancy. My birth plan is pretty simple and I think everyone in the room will understand it when I tell it to them. The title is, "Get The Baby Out" Using our form will help you focus on specifics — like who'll be present Eric, what pain management techniques you want to try Epidural, and where you want your baby to stay after you deliver with me. It will give you a starting point to discuss your preferences with your medical team. All my wants/needs are very standard. I'm not requesting a natural child birth or anything outside of what is very day to day. I just want them to do what is needed to get the baby out safely and then give directly to me. How hard is that? Childbirth is unpredictable, and chances are you won't follow your plan to the letter, but thinking about your choices ahead of time — and sharing your preferences with your caregiver — should take some of the anxiety out of the process.


Prep early for those first weeks

"To streamline a chore like filling out birth announcements, address and stamp your envelopes now while you're still in control of your time." — Laura I'm not even allowing myself to think about this.


3 Questions About...Arriving at the hospital

All of these questions were answered at our Labor and Delivery Prep Class so we're prepared!


Q1.
How can I prepare for my arrival at the hospital?

Long before you go into labor, you and your partner should map out the most direct route to the hospital or birth center It's 3 miles away, we're fine. Find out where to park, keeping in mind that you'll be leaving your car for at least 24 hours. Ask the hospital staff where you should enter if you arrive after-hours. Most hospitals offer tours of the obstetrical floor at designated times. Taking advantage of these tours will give you a chance to do a dry run before the big day.

Q2.
What should I do when I get to the hospital?

If you've preregistered I did!, you should follow the instructions you've been given, which probably include breezing right by the front desk and going directly to the maternity ward. If you haven't preregistered, you can probably still head directly to the maternity ward. There's usually a check-in desk once you get there. The staff there will help you deal with any necessary paperwork.

A nurse may lead you directly to a birthing room and pair you with a labor and delivery nurse. If it's not clear that you're in active labor or need to be admitted for other reasons, she'll most likely bring you to an exam room first. Your caregiver will evaluate you there to see if you're ready to be admitted.

The nurse will ask you for a urine sample and have you change your clothes. Then she'll check your vital signs and ask when your contractions started and how far apart they are, whether your water's broken, and whether you've had any vaginal bleeding. She'll also want to know if your baby's been moving, if you've recently had anything to eat or drink, and how you're coping with the pain.

Your caregiver will check the frequency and duration of your contractions as well as your baby's heart rate. Then she'll perform an abdominal and vaginal exam. If it looks like you're not in labor or are still in early labor— and everything is okay with you and your baby — you'll probably be sent home until your labor is further along. Otherwise, you'll be admitted.


Q3.
What will happen once I'm admitted?

The nurse or your caregiver may ask if you have a birth plan. Even if you don't have a written plan, share your needs and preferences with the staff, including your feelings about using pain medication during labor.

Then you'll have blood drawn (to find out your blood type among other things) and an IV may be started. You'll definitely need an IV to get antibiotics if you test positive for Group B strep, for hydration if you can't keep fluids down, if you want a spinal or an epidural, if you need oxytocin (Pitocin), or if you have any health problems or pregnancy complications.

Your nurse or caregiver should also orient you, showing you where everything is in your room and where your partner can get ice for you. Don't be shy about requesting things you might need, like a rocking chair, a cool washcloth, or another blanket, or asking any lingering questions you might have. And if you're going to have continuous electronic fetal monitoring and are interested in how it works, ask her to explain which lines on the strip show your contractions and which show the heartbeat, and let her know if you'd prefer the volume on the machine to be turned up or down.


Talk to your caregiver about preregistering at the hospital. If you prepare the paperwork now, you won't have to worry about it on the big day.
•Did you let nature take its course or did you try to plan your baby's birth for a particular day, month, or season?


This Week's Activity:

Prepare food to eat after your baby's born. OR have your Mom come and stay with you for the week after the baby is born so she can cook for you. =) If you cook, start doubling recipes and freezing half. You and your partner will be too exhausted to cook in the first weeks after you bring your baby home and you'll be thrilled to have healthy meals you can heat up fast. If you don't cook, go around your neighborhood and pick up all the takeout and delivery menus you can find. You'll be grateful for all the options at your fingertips.

Thank Yous

I'm finished writing than you cards! Writing them out with 3 out of the 5 fingers on my right hand completely numb was a challenge -- but I did over come it! GO me! If you're one of the lucky people who recieves a thank-you card and you can't read it -- just know that it was heartfelt.

THE NURSERY!

So here it is! We are still needing wall hangings, blinds, a valance, etc. but the big chunks are done! If baby came tonight I'd feel FINE. I'm so excited! And I am so thankful for my wonderful husband who put it all together. Yipee!!

Shower Pictures

First of all let me start out by saying THANK YOU to my wonderful friends Katie and Deannie for putting together such an amazing shower! It was shocking how much detail they put in to the decorations and the food. The whole party was themed "Pea In a Pod" -- just like the nursery and just like my wedding. The food was made with my cravings in mind. The colors were beautiful and everything was personalized. It was AMAZING. Hard to beat -- and since I'm doing Katie's shower in a few months I have to admit I'm scared! LOL

Here are my wonderful ladies, Deannie & Katie!

These are the best cupcakes I've ever had -- and I'm serious about that! Katie made them and I ate at LEAST 10 of them!

Deannie was so crafty she put this little cute centerpiece together! So cute!

And this wreath which happens to contain some of the cutest baby clothes I've gotten yet!

Here is the spread! Some of my favorite foods! Let me also point out the fruit arrangement that Mario and Katie personally made. So impressive!


Samantha pour herself some GREEN punch!
Me in the Big Momma throne..
The belly shots I've been taken are seen here hanging from a clothes line. So cute!
Themed Plates and Napkins
Banner & Balloon!

More Shower Pics

More detail on the theme! The favors were unstoppable! Everyone left with a goodie bag.
M&Ms with our sonogram pictures on them!
Chocolate bars with a precious little "Peas in Pod" label and a sweet little baggy of lip balm
These are bath salts...
Look! A balloon to match!

Shower Guests

Jenni, Sarah & Katie V
Mary & Melissa
Katie & Mariana
Jenni, Claudia and Katie V
My sister Kaycee & Angela

Gifts

Getting It Done!

I'm happy to say that I'm finally getting to the bottom of my "To-Do" list. Here is what is left!


Hang Blinds in Baby's Room

Paint "New" Baby's Room - half done! Eric's working on it right now as I type.

Figure out how to use breast pump

Pack over night bag for hospital - Mostly done.

Buy items on registry that we still need - I've done some of this. I am doing it slowly so I can utilize coupons.

Get 2 car seats installed and approved by fire station - The car seat in my car is installed and I just need to make the appointment at the fire station. I'm going to worry about putting in the 2nd car seat after the baby is here. It's just not a priority right now.

Send Thank you cards for gifts -Still working on this!

Finalize all nursery details! - We're getting close!

Get/install hanging shelf for baby books in bedroom - Shelves purchased just need to hang once painting is done.

Get nursing stuff from Mom

Doctors Appointment

So I had my 34 week check up on Wednesday. Everyhthing looks good. I've gained 3 lbs which has been very consistant over the last few appointments. That's 1.5lbs a week and clearly on target or they would probably be yelling at me. They did tell me to stay away from salt and drink lots of water -- but they tell me that every time so I'm just saying, "Ya ya ...thanks" and going on my way. I start weekly check ups in 2 weeks and that also starts my internal exams. Yipee! I've never been so excited to have a stranger give me the ring-around-the-cervix in my life.

The doctor did tell me that since I'm now at 34 weeks -- I'm "safe" -- and if I started labor they wouldn't stop it. They would just let me deliver. That gave me both a good and terrified feeling. While I am anxious to meet our child -- I am also more than willing to accept a few more weeks of sleeping in. Not to mention that the nursery isn't quite done (although it's very close)!

I know that the nursery doesn't have to be done to have a baby -- it's been said -- but it's more about my peace of mind. I didn't put this much care and concern for the detail into my wedding -- but for some reason it's coming out in my pregnancy. I am officially Momzilla -- I WILL NOT STOP UNTIL THIS ROOM IS COMPLETE and I'm prepared to take everyone down with me until it's done. Since I now weight 215 lbs you better believe that I can make that happen. And I DO mean that in the most loving way possible.

Other than that the doctor said my aches, pains, Braxton Hicks contractions and the numbness in my fingers are all normal. So I just need to keep moving forward.

This weekend (July 4th) is supposed to be my last week of travel. My last weekend to travel outside of a 45 radius of my home. I will be somewhat abiding by that......I'm not counting the 1 hour and 15 minutes drive to my Mom and Dads house though.....

More later....

34 Weeks

How your baby's growing:

Your baby now weighs about 4 3/4 pounds (like your average cantaloupe) (the book at home says over 5lbs. I'm going to say our baby is 5lbs.) and is almost 18 inches long. Her fat layers — which will help regulate her body temperature once she's born — are filling her out, making her rounder. Her skin is also smoother than ever. Her central nervous system is maturing and her lungs are continuing to mature as well. (We love lungs!) If you've been nervous about preterm labor, (I'm not) you'll be happy to know that babies born between 34 and 37 weeks who have no other health problems generally do fine Yes, yes...I really don't want a wimpy little baby. So I'm hoping I can make it to at least 38 weeks -- but I have a sneaking suspicion that I'm going to be threatening to slit my own belly open, and overdue, at 40+ weeks) They may need a short stay in the neonatal nursery and may have a few short-term health issues, but in the long run, they usually do as well as full-term babies.

How your life's changing:

By this week, fatigue has probably set in again (No, actually I feel energetic but my body is limiting me.), though maybe not with the same coma-like intensity of your first trimester. Your tiredness is perfectly understandable, given the physical strain you're under and the restless nights of frequent pee breaks and tossing and turning, while trying to get comfortable. Now's the time to slow down and save up your energy for labor day (and beyond). If you've been sitting or lying down for a long time, don't jump up too quickly. Blood can pool in your feet and legs, causing a temporary drop in your blood pressure when you get up that can make you feel dizzy. (I have been feeling a little faint from time to time and it's NOT dehydration!) If you notice itchy red bumps or welts on your belly (no) and possibly your thighs (no) and buttocks (no....although my ass has swollen up a few sizes...........) as well, you may have a condition called pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy (PUPPP for short). Up to one percent of pregnant women develop PUPPP, which is harmless but can be quite uncomfortable. See your practitioner so she can make sure it's not a more serious problem, provide treatment to make you more comfortable, and refer you to a dermatologist if necessary.

Also be sure to call her if you feel intense itchiness all over your body, even if you don't have a rash. It could signal a liver problem.