38 Week Update

I had no idea it was possible for a woman who is 9 months pregnant to dance so lightly on her feet, but it is!

Just got back from the OB.

I've lost 2 pounds, which is normal prior to delivery, so my total weight gain at 38 weeks and 6 days is 25 pounds.  Bravo!  They told me to gain 25 to 35, and I've stayed well within the guidelines.

When the tech got me settled in the room, I saw they weren't set up to do an internal exam, so I asked if they would.   The tech said in her very soothing southern drawl, "She sure can.  Here."  Then she set out the little bum mat and sheet, and told me I could get undressed.

The nurse practitioner came in and we chatted.  I let her know all the symptoms I'd been having, and that the plug started coming out last night, and continued into this morning.  She measured the belly at roughly 39+ weeks, listened to the heartbeat, then went in for the exam.

When Rowan plunked, she plunked well.  The doctor couldn't feel her head last time, but it was definitely presenting this time!  So the diagnosis was 60% effaced and 4 centimeters dilated.  Nice!

Yes, I know I can walk around like this for days or even weeks.

However, it's nice to know my PMS-like misery has not been in vain.  It's nice to know I'm almost at the halfway point of dilation, and the nurse practitioner says things are softening and thinning nicely.  I'm glad that even with my whining (usually at night), I've done pretty well during the days.  I do all my housework, walk around, do Yoga, distract myself with lesson planning (post on that to come; I promise!), and more.

I'll just keep it up with my usual lifestyle and continue being as active as possible.

Of course I know all the "natural" ways to induce labor but, like I said before, I'm not trying them.  My body is doing just fine on its own, and I just need to keep moving forward.

Going to the bowling alley tomorrow.  That's roughly 2 miles, round trip.  ;)

Copyright (c) 2013 Wendy L. Callahan