week 0 to 8

Week 0
Thursday 16th I was born had my first visitors.Daddy and Nana . I had my first bath and my first bottle with Nana. Deirdre came to visit with flowers. Then that night my brothers came to meet me later that afternoon. Also during the day Mummy and I both had different injections.
Friday 17thStill in hospital Daddy came to visit and held me while I had my hearing test. He also bought my own clothes so I didn't have to wear hospital clothes. My next visitor was Marina. Daddy gave me my bottle while visiting. Also the doctor came and looked at me and said I was fine and I could go home anytime.
Saturday:18th I came home today. I had to have a heel prick test it really upset Mummy and me. Daddy and Jonathon came and got us. I had my first ride in the car and my car seat. Our first stop was Woodcroft. I had my first pram ride Jonathon pushed me. We went to Mc Donalds first and then to Dollar Smart and then Coles. My first home visitors were Aunty Jenny and Uncle Bob. Then John Carol and Matthew came to visit.
Sunday 19th Today the midwife visited us. We also had other visitors Marina and Norma . Mummy dressed me in a cute outfit from her workmates
Monday 20th Today daddy had a meeting so we went with him to show me off to his boss.
We went to the op shop first and were able to buy a stand for my carry basket bed. While Daddy was at his meeting Mummy and I went to Big W and mummy bought me a new dress and sunhat. We also bought my bath from Dollar Smart.
Tuesday:21st We went to Parramatta shops. Then we went to Medicare to get me on the Medicare card and register for the baby bonus.
Wednesday 22nd we stayed home today as it was raining.
Week 1
Thursday 23rd I am one week old today. I stayed home today with Dad.
Friday: 24th Was Mummy's birthday. We all went out to the Blacktown Workers Club for lunch and I got to met Karen Matthew and Amanda Ray. Also bought my vibrating bouncer.
Saturday 25th We went to Pecky's for a quick visit and show off.
Sunday 26th Visited some of the neighbours.
Monday 27th Daddy went back to work Mummy took me shopping in the morning and had be weighed 4.9kg I also had my first witching hour.
Tuesday 28th Went to the doctors with Mummy and then we went shopping.
Wednesday 29th Went shopping with Mummy Daddy bathed me for the first time.
Week 2
Thursday 30th was the last day I wore newborn size nappies.
Friday 31st Halloween my Daddy stayed home
I wore my black “Cat”suit.
Saturday 1st We stayed home and John, Carol and Matthew came to visit us.
Sunday 2nd Today Michelle,Natalie,Noah and Bryce came to visit. Bryce was born 15 days before me.
Monday 3rd Stayed home had a very good day just sleeping and eating
Tuesday 4th Daddy stayed home. Helen and Susan came for visit and cuddle. It was Helen's birthday.
It was also Melbourne Cup Mummy used my birth date and won $47.
Wednesday 5th Went to Daddy's work today at North Sydney. Met Daddy workmates.
Week 3
Thursday 6th Went to Rowan's school so my big brother could show off his little sister. Had a cuddle with his maths teacher as well.
Friday 7th Visited Nana in hospital
Saturday 8th Mummy went shopping and got me a bouncer toy with Aunty Maureen voucher I stayed home and played.
Sunday 9th Went to hospital and saw Nana.
Monday 10th Went to Darling Harbour so we could got to GIGA and meet Smorg and Milica..
Then had a late lunch then picked Nana up from hospital
Tuesday 11th Stayed home it was a hot day
Wednesday 12th Stayed in and played
Week 4
Thursday 13th I weigh 5.54kg I had my Santa photo taken today.
Friday 14th Rowan's sign out day so I went to the school. The Jonathon joined us as his name was on the DUX board.
Saturday 15th Went scrapbooking with Mummy at Pecky's then we went shopping at ALDI.
Sunday 16th I am one month old today. Jonathon Daddy Mummy and I went to the Workers Sports Club for breakfast to celebrate. Also John and Carol came to visit.
Monday 17th
Tuesday 18th Stayed home
Wednesday 19th Went shopping for Rowan's formal and we were out for a very long time.
Week 5
Thursday 20th Daddy stayed home with me
Friday 21st Rowan's formal I got to meet Emma
then Mummy and Daddy took me to a Chinese Restaurant.
Saturday 22nd I stayed home today with Daddy
Sunday 23th I went to North Rocks with Mummy while Daddy went computer shopping.
Monday 24th Today I weigh 5.9kgs and I started drinking 150mls.
Tuesday 25th Stayed home
Wednesday 26th Stayed home
Week 6
Thursday 27th Went to Parramatta today to register Melody's birth. Had a nice time shopping
Friday 28th Daddy had the day off we went shopping at Mt Druitt and Plumpton
Saturday 29th I stayed home with Daddy then that afternoon we went for another walk to met some more neighbours
Sunday 30th I had a morning bath for the first time.I started my 6th tin of formula
Monday 1st Went to my brothers old primary school and met Mr Nash
Tuesday 2nd I weigh 6.12kg. Took Christmas Snaps and meet mummy's bosses.
Wednesday 3rd Went shopping in Blacktown with my brothers.
Week 7
Thursday 4th Had a bottle with Nana today and went shopping with Daddy when he finished work
Friday 5th Went to Victoria Barracks and Eastgardens. Also went to Daddy's work
Saturday 6th Went to lunch with Aunty Jenny and Uncle Bob and my family including Nana at the Blacktown workers Club.
Sunday 7th I started my 7th tin of formula. John and Carol came to visit.
Monday 8th Daddy Mummy and I went Christmas Shopping
Tuesday 9th Went to the High School for Presentation night
Wednesday 10th Went shopping in the morning and stayed home for the rest of the day.
Week 8
Thursday 11th Today I am 8 weeks old. I weigh 6.28kg.
Friday 12th We stayed home today
Saturday 13th Scrapbooking Xmas Party at Pecky's and Dollar Smart Xmas party at RSL
Sunday 14th Today we stayed home
Monday 15th went for a long pram ride today and did some shopping.
Tuesday 16th Two months old today had my needles today.I am 60cm long and my head is 40cm. My heart beat was fine.
Wednesday 17th Went shopping with Mummy and visited Mummy's shop to see the girls

Melody is here

Melody was born on October 16th at 355am.
She is very beautiful.
She weighted 4.56 (10lb 1 oz)
she was 51cm long
her head was37.7cm

week 39

Well not long now.
SHe is due Wednesday ultrasound dates but period date is next Sunday.
I go back to hospital on Wednesday.

Week Thirty-Nine

• The lanugo has mostly disappeared, but you'll probably find a bit on her shoulders, arms and legs and in those protected little bodily creases. It will vanish completely on its own in time.
• Her lungs are maturing and surfactant production is increasing and fully prepared to take on the outside world!
• Your baby doesn't have much room to move and certainly mum agrees! Did you imagine 8 months ago that this wee one would be able to hook a toe in your ribs while elbowing your bladder? She certainly has grown!
• Her body continues laying on the fat stores that will help regulate her body temperature after birth. In addition to normal fat,she is accumulating a special "brown" fat in the nape of herneck, between her shoulders and around organs. Brown fat cells are important for thermogenesis (generating heat) during her first weeks.
• Your infant's weight is around 7.25 pounds (3288gm) and length is 19.9 inches (50.7cm).

no baby yet

Melody turned so now she's head down now so its a waiting game now

week 38

Not long now.

In fact I probably only have about 7 to 8 days.

Melody is breech. Bottom down legs up.

So I will be having a c section.

They are hoping to do it on the 13th or 14th of October find out for sure this Wednesday.

I don't sleep very well at night.
I am up every hour or so to the loo or sometimes just because I can't breathe.

Week Thirty-Eight

• If she is the "average baby," she weights 6.8 pounds (3083gm)and is 19.6 inches (49.8cm) long. (not my baby she is so much bigger then that)
  
• Have you noticed she hiccups a lot? Because there is no air around her, those breathing exercises cause amniotic fluid to get into her windpipe. The result? Hiccups!
• Your child's intestines are accumulating lots of meconium. Meconium takes on the role of being your baby's first bowel movement -- removing the waste that has accumulated.
• She may have a full head of hair now -- an inch or more long! Don't be surprised if it's an unexpected color. Some blond couples have dark haired babies; some dark haired couples have red-haired babies; some couples have babies with only peach fuzz! It may just persuade you to take a closer look at your family tree!
• Circumference of head and abdomen are about the same size for your baby. No wonder it's so hard to get a t-shirt over a newborn's head!

Something I didn't know I had

I have tested positive for GBS.
Scary stuff seeing you don't get tested until 34 weeks and then they can't do anything about it till you have baby.
It makes you feel so unclean especially since the doctors just calmly expect you to cope with this thing without support.
What is GBS?

Group B Streptococcus Infection in Pregnancy

Group B Streptococcus (GBS) are common bacteria which are often found in the vagina, rectum or urinary bladder of women. This is not the same bacteria which causes strep throat. Infections from GBS are usually not serious for a woman and are readily treated with antibiotics. However, when a woman becomes pregnant, the whole outlook changes.There is no sure way to prevent the GBS bacteria from being passed to a newborn at the time of birth and although it is very rare, and despite medical treatment, some babies still die as a result of complications from a GBS infection. Your doctor would like to help prevent this from happening. GBS usually does not cause infections in pregnant women, the concern is for the baby. Read this pamphlet to find out about Group B Streptococcus infections (GBS).

---

About Group B Streptococcus (GBS)

When GBS bacteria reach a woman's bladder, kidneys or uterus they can cause an infection. Infections can cause inflammation and pain. A woman can have these bacteria in her body and not know it. If a woman has these bacteria in her vagina and rectum without having any symptoms, she is said to be colonized (positive). It is estimated that 15 - 40% of all pregnant women are GBS colonized. Between 40 - 70% of colonized mothers pass the bacteria onto their babies during the birthing process. While most babies are not affected by the bacteria, a very small number (1- 2%) of these babies will go on to develop a GBS infection. Babies who are infected with GBS may have mild to severe problems which may affect their blood, brain, lungs and spinal cord. No one method of screening (testing) and treatment will prevent all GBS infant deaths.

Screening (Testing) for GBS

Doctors agree that there arc two acceptable options for screening, (testing) for GBS. A doctor may choose to routinely culture (test) all the pregnant women under his or her care between the 35th and 37th week of pregnancy, and treat the mothers who are GBS colonized (positive) with antibiotics when labour starts. Or a doctor may choose not to routinely test every woman, but rather to treat only those mothers who are at risk of passing the bacteria to their babies (Table 1) during the birth process. If Cultures were not done around the time of the woman's 35th - 37th week of pregnancy, or if the test results are not available at the time of delivery, it is essential that women at risk are treated with antibiotics.

In addition, particularly if the woman has a history of bladder or kidney infections, a doctor may also test a woman's urine for the bacteria If the bacteria are found in the urine but not found In the vagina or rectum, the woman is still considered colonized (positive) and will still I be treated with antibiotics when she goes into labour.

Table 1: Risk Factors for GBS Infections

Women are at high risk to pass GBS on to their babies if they Start labour before they reach 37 weeks gestation (with or without ruptured membranes). Reach full term. but their membranes rupture (water breaks) and it seems as through the labour will last more than 18 hours. If they have an unexplained, mild fever during labour. If they have already had a baby who had a GBS infection. If they have (or had) a bladder or kidney infection which was caused by the GBS bacteria.

How Is the Test Done?

This simple and painless test is done by inserting a Special Q-tip into a woman's vagina and rectum. The Q-tip is then placed in a special solution to see if the bacteria grow. This is called doing a Culture. If bacteria grow, the woman is said to be colonized (positive) If no bacteria grow, the test is negative.

Treatment for Mother

Expectant mothers who tested positive for GBS bacteria will be treated with antibiotics when they go into labour or if their membranes rupture (water breaks) early. If a mother is not tested but is thought to be at high risk (Table 1) for passing the bacteria on to her baby during the birth process, she will also be treated with antibiotics to kill the bacteria during her labour and birth.Studies show that it is not beneficial to give antibiotics during pregnancy, as in more than 65% of cases, the bacteria have time to re-grow before labour begins.

Two Types of GBS Infections in Newborns

There are two types of GBS infections that can happen to newborn babies. The most common type is called early-onset disease. In this case, the babies are almost always infected during their journey down the birth canal because the bacteria were in their mother's vagina. The symptoms of early-onset infections show up before the baby is seven days old. Some babies show signs of this infection as early is six hours after birth. Early-onset disease can cause infections in a baby's lungs, brain, spinal cord or blood. This type of GBS infection can be very serious and frequently hard for a newborn baby to fight off. This is the infection that antibiotic treatment in labour is aimed at preventing.

The second type is called late-onset disease. In this case, the babies don't show signs of a GBS infection until after they are more than seven days old. About half of these babies were also infected during their birth. The other half became infected after the birth by being in contact with their GBS positive mother, or another person who is a carrier of the disease. Late-onset infections can also cause serious problems for the newborn. The most common problem is meningitis - an infection of the membranes which surround the brain and spinal cord. The risk of late-onset disease is not decreased by antibiotic treatment in labour but antibiotics are available for the baby once it is born. Babies with early-onset disease are more likely to die than those babies with late-onset disease.

Treatment for Baby

All newborn infants are watched closely for symptoms of an infection, particularly when the mother was GBS positive at some point in her pregnancy, and no matter whether she was treated with antibiotics or not. While it is true that the chances are small that an expectant mother who was treated with antibiotics during pregnancy will pass the bacteria on to her baby - it can happen. Babies who show signs of a GBS infection after birth will also be treated with antibiotics. If available, a baby specialist (paediatrician) may be asked to help look after a baby with a GBS infection

week 37

I did end up at the hospital last week on the Tuesday for about three hours and then the next day I was admitted for morning to watch the blood pressure.
Baby is fine as always healthy a good size doing everything right.
I still have no ankles and the top of my feet swell which is the part that hurts more when I walk. My iron levels are low so I have to take iron tablets now.
I am huge now really showing now.
Tummy is very tight and my belly button really hurts. I am just full of fluid.
I still have a slight line down the tummy
Had my shower on the weekend that was nice and we got very spoiled.
I have another appointment this Wednesday and I want to discuss with them about delivering Melody a little early just so Rowan can concerate on his studies and also so she isn't so big.

Week 37

* This week, the average size is about 6.3 pounds (2859gm)(mine is already bigger then that) now and 19.1 inches (48.6cm) length.
* She is official full term now but can still benefit from extra days in the womb.
* Your baby continues to practice breathing movements. Isn't it amazing how she can breathe "under water?"
* Grasp is firm now. It won't be long until you'll feel that strong little fist confidently grasping your finger (or tightly clenching your hair)!
* A few weeks ago, your baby would move her eyes toward light. Now she turns towards light outside the uterus.
* " As the uterine wall stretches and thins allowing more light to permeate, he develops definite daily activity cycles. You will want to be sure to establish good patterns yourself at this time, thus encouraging them in your child. Ever heard of a baby getting her days/nights mixed up? Now's the time to try to avoid that!

week 36

ONly four weeks to go.
Very scary.
I have started to swell up this week. Especially this weekend couldn't wear shoes after a while also really really waddle npw.
I have to see the doctor on Wednesday but if the swelling gets as bad as yesterday I will go up earlier as its one od the bad signs of pre eclampsia which is something I could get as my blood pressure is still high.

Week Thirty-Six
# Your baby is almost ready and most likely, so are you! The only organ still to mature is the lungs. While certainly you are both growing anxious to meet, remember that each day (up to 42 weeks), that your little one stays within your womb will multiply his chances to breathe on her own.
# If she hasn't already, this week your baby may drop into the birth canal. While breathing for mom becomes easier, walking may be the exact opposite! If she's not your first baby, this "lightening" may not occur until right before labor.
# Fat is dimpling your baby's elbows and knees, and forming creases in the neck and wrists.
# her skin is growing smooth and, shall we say it, "baby" soft.
# her gums are very rigid. It won't be many months before you'll see her teeth.
# She has a fully developed pair of kidneys and her liver has begun processing some waste products.
# Your child's average size is now 18.66 inches (47.4cm) and 5.78 pounds (2622 g). Between now and birth she will gain about an ounce a day!

Week 35

Week Thirty-Five

* The average baby weighs almost five and a half pounds now.
* Most babies born now will survive and without many long-term problems.
* Fat accumulations plumps up the arms and legs this week. These layers of fat will help her regulate her body temperature. They also provide those cute little dimples on elbows and knees!
* Her hearing is fully developed, so be sure to talk to your daughter. Do you find yourself speaking in a high-pitched tone? That's okay since some studies show babies respond better to higher pitches.
* It's getting crowded! Your baby is now taking up most of the uterus and you may even feel like your chest has run out of room! Soon enough though, baby will move down and you'll be able to breathe easily again (just not walk so easily! Ha!).
* Your baby is 18.2 inches (46.2cm) long and weighs 5.3 pounds (2383gm).
* The testes have completed their descent in males.

Ultrasound today

Saw Melody today.
She now weighs 3.4 kg! Thats 7lb 5oz!
If I go to term she will weigh 4.6 kgs! thats 10lb 2 oz! my biggest baby yet.
She was also presenting beech.
But then she moved again.
She is sitting really high still at the moment. Very different from the boys who both dropped early.
She is healthy everything was in the right places and she was even pracising her breathing all good signs.
The doctor did say that if I don't go early I may have to be induced as baby may get too big!
Today was also our last birth class we learnt all about how to care for baby.
The boys had some fun learning to wrap baby. Youngest son even held baby for a long time.

34 weeks

No long now only six weeks to go.
Melody likes to kick around still which is great.
No sleeping all that well with the acid reflux and still feeling the effects of the flu.
Tried not to take too much still worried about passing chemicals into her system.
Last week they found protein in my urine and sugar a well so they took more blood which came back negative.
Have to go to the hospital this week for my 34 week anti d shot.
Did some research this week and found that A- people are only 7% of the australian population. Where as 0+ are 40% so I already have one common blood group child and one uncommon can't wait to see what I get this time!
I also have another ultrasound this week to check size.

Week Thirty-Four

* Your baby acts completely like a newborn, with her eyes opened when awake and closed when sleeping. You may also find her settling into more of a routine for sleeping & awake times.
* She has learned to blink. She can also see more clearly when there is a bright light on your stomach and probably has the outline of all your organs memorized!
* Antibodies from your blood are being tranferred to her. These immunities continue to build until birth. Then breastmilk will add even more protection against disease.
* Your baby may have already turned to a head-down position in preparation for birth. If she is your first baby, she may be settling into the pelvis with her head pressing against your cervix.
* Fingernails have reached the end of the fingertips now. She may scratch her face even before she is born!
* Your little one's length is 17.7 inches (45cm) and weight is 4.7 pounds (2146 g).

33 weeks

Melody seems to be doing fine she is moving heaps.
We went to birthing classes on Wednesday we learnt massage.
I also have had the flu all weekend but I am getting better now.

Week Thirty-Three

* Amniotic fluid is at its highest level during your pregnancy.
* Your baby's head size has increased 3/8ths of an inch due to rapid brain growth.
* Neurons and synapses are developing in huge numbers -- forming connections in your baby's brain will give her the skills she needs to thrive as a newborn. This week, she may be able to coordinate sucking and swallowing with breathing.
* While most of her bones are hardening, her skull is quite pliable and not completely joined. The bones will be able to move slightly to make birthing easier.
* Your baby takes intermittent deep breaths -- of water! That's okay, though since she gets oxygen from the placenta. This breathing exercises muscles and encourages her lung cells to produce more surfactant (a protein essential for healthy lung development).
* If your baby is a boy, his testicles will be descending from his abdomen into his scrotum. Sometimes one or both testicles won't move into position until after birth.
* Your infant is now 17.2 inches (43.7cm) long and weighs 4.23 pounds (1918gm).

32 weeks

Well what a week!
Had my hospital appointment on Wednesday and because my blood pressure was very high they decided to put me in to observe my blood pressure.
It was fine by the time I got down to the birthing area where they were going to watch me so I spent two hours on my side trying to keep the montior on so they could montior baby.
So Colin and the boys had to go to the birthing class without me!
Usually its the mum there without there support people so it was real change.
I was allowed to join them for the tour so that was interesting things have changed from when I had the boys.
At least this time there is your own personal bathroom unlike at St maragrets when it was down the hall a bit.
In Westmead there were only two toliets and showers on the floor where you gave birth.

On Thursday I saw my normal doctor and my blood pressure was fine (in the morning) I really would not have liked them to have taken my blood pressure that afternoon as my mum wrote her car off and spent the afternoon early evening in hospital.

Melody moves around all the time now really likes to kick her dad in the back when she gets a chance.

Week Thirty-Two

• Your baby is up to 3.75 pounds (1702gm) now and is 16.7 inches (42.4cm) long.
• You might notice she's not moving around as much now. Don't worry! She is fine -- just running short on room. She still has plenty of growing to do though, believe it or not!
• All five senses are working. Your little one is fascinated and practicing testing these out as much as possible!
• Toenails are completely formed even though she may not be quite ready for a French manicure.
• Hair on your infant's head continues to grow in. Will he have dad's black hair or your red hair?
• Brain scans have shown that babies have periods of dream sleep (REM) starting around the eight month. What do you suppose your son is dreaming about?

31 weeks

Week Thirty-One

• The rate of physical growth slows down just a bit, but even though she doesn't get much longer, she will gain a lot of weight the rest of the pregnancy.
• Fat continues accumulating. This layer of fat turns her skin from red to the rosy pink she will have as a newborn.
• Calcium, phosphorus and iron are being stored and her bones are growing and hardening.
• Your baby is 16.2 inches (41.1cm) long and weighs 3.3 pounds (1502gm)
• His brain enters another period of rapid growth, producing hundreds of billions of new nerve cells! Amazing!
• She may move to the rhythm of music. Studies with heart rates show that she also prefers some types of music to others -- already!
• Lungs are the only major organ left to complete development. Remember, that while you may be anxious to meet your little one that these last few weeks can be vital - with each day increasing your baby's ability to breathe on her own.

birthing classes

Today we had our first birthing class.
The boys came with me.
It was interesting.
Next week they take the tour of the birthing ward.

30 weeks

Week Thirty

• Did you know your baby is nearly three pounds now?
• her head is getting larger to accommodate a period of rapid brain growth. Don't forget to continue to "teach" your baby in the womb by exposing to music, literature, and simply talking to him.
• A pint and a half of amniotic fluid surrounds her. As she grows and fills your uterus, the amount of amniotic fluid will decrease. Funny, you certainly won't feel any lighter!
• She spends more and more time practicing opening and closing eyelids. Her eyes can move from side to side, following a light source. She may even reach out to touch the light.
• Early lanugo is beginning to disappear that served to protect your baby's skin from the water in the womb. Your little one's own hair may begin to appear.
• Toenails are entering their final growth stage.
• Bone marrow is now in charge of red blood cell production. These red blood cells will continue to service your child's body by transporting oxygen and removing the wastes (carbon monoxide and other gases).
• Your baby has the capability now to produce tears -- yes, within the womb.
• By the end of this week, your baby is now 15.7 inches (39.9cm) long and weighs 2.91 pounds (1319gm).

29 weeks

we had the best ultrasound last week it was at the hospital the tech decribed everything to us.

I had to have this ultrasound as they were worried baby would be small.
Melody was 29 weeks by her leg measurement.
32 weeks head and 31 stomach so she is fine and healthy.
So everything seems to be fine.
Also dicussed the birth plan and had the anti d shot as well.

Week Twenty-Nine

• Your baby's head is in proportion with body now. She appears more like a newborn each and every day!
• Fat continues to accumulate under the skin -- only now preparing for entering the *real world*.
• Your baby's brain can control primitive breathing and body temperatures.
• Her eyes can move in their sockets. Soon she will be able to follow a blinking light.
• Your baby is increasingly sensitive to changes in light, sound, taste, and smell! Various studies show that your baby may indicate preferences (or disdain) for particular tastes or odors at this stage
• She is also moving from side to side, but probably still is head up. In the next few weeks, she will move to the head down birthing position. At times you may feel as if she is performing somersaults for a circus act!
• Her length is now approximately 15.2 inches (38.6cm) and weight is 2.54 pounds (1153gm)

28 weeks

Wow this is the last week of my second trimester.

Only 12 weeks to go now.
I have been a little unwell the last week I think I have overdone it a few times. I forget I can't do everything I used to do I need to rest more often.
My blood pressure was really high last Thursday but I had been really unwell the night before.
I go to the hospital this Wednesday and then back on Friday for ultrasound.
This visit is for the Anti D (hopefully)

Week Twenty-Eight

• Eyebrows and eyelashes are now very noticeable!
• Hair on baby's head is growing longer. Some babies are born with almost none at all, while others appear to be ready for their first haircut!
• Eyes are completely formed now. Quite a view from inside!
• Your baby's body is getting plump and rounded. Most of that increase is muscle tissue and bone. Fat will be added during the third trimester.
• Muscle tone is improving. Preparation for the Olympics feels like it is taking place in your womb!
• Lungs are capable of breathing now (but baby would still struggle and require medical attention if born now)
• Talk to your baby often, reading stories, singing songs and more. He or she can recognize your voice now and will often calm to it later on!
• Your baby weighs in now at 2.2 pounds (1005gm) and is 14.8 inches (37.6cm).

27 weeks

I got the results back I am fine my sugar is normal.

But now as the blood pressure is the best it ever has been they now think baby will be small!
That I would be happy about.
My kids are normally almost 10 pounds.
So now I have to have an Ultrasound every two weeks so they watch the size.
They really like to scare you don't they?
Melody is really kicking now yesterday she really kicked outside the body so much so that my shirt lifted.
She didn't mind her first flight on Thursday but on Monday's flight it was a bit rougher and she didn't stay still as all.

SO I have an ultrasound on August 1st at the hospital but I will see my local doctor this week and get her to refer me to the local place I have always used and have it done before my next appointment at the hospital. Which is now every two weeks!

Week Twenty-Seven

• Your little one's brain continues its rapid growth. Don't forget to share music, conversation, and even books with your baby!
• Response to sound grows more consistent toward the end of the seventh month, when the network of nerves to the ear is complete. Your baby's hearing continues to develop, he or she may start to recognize your voice as well as your partner's.
• Lungs continue to grow and prepare for functioning outside of the womb. Each day in the womb greatly increases survival rates!
• He also continues to take small breaths and although he's only breathing in water and not air, it's still good practice for when he's born.
• Eyelids are now open more. Your baby can distinguish between light and dark.
• Retinas have formed.
• Your baby will grow over � inch this week alone! You may suspect this phenominal growth rate repeats in the preteen years!
• Average size is now 14.4 inches (36.6cm) and 1.9 pound (875gm).

26 weeks

had a sugar test last week and since they haven't called me back that should mean that I am ok.
I go back on Wednesday for the Anti D injection so I will know for sure then.

Week Twenty-Six

• Your baby may weigh about two pounds now (average is 1.7 pound, 760gm) and is 14 inches (35.6cm) in length
• To support the fetus's growing body, the spine is getting stronger and more supple. Though no longer than the span of the average adult hand, it is now made up of 150 joints, 33 rings, and some 1,000 ligaments.
• Air sacs in the lungs form now.
• Lungs begin to secrete a greasy substance called surfactant. Without surfactant the fetal lungs would stick together and couldn't expand after the baby is born.
• Although they've been sealed shut for the last few months, your baby's eyes are opening and beginning to blink this week. Depending on ethnicity, some babies will be born with blue or gray-blue eyes (which may change color in the first 6 months of life) and some will be born with brown or dark eyes.
• Retinas begin to form.
• Brain wave activity for hearing and sight begins to be detectable.
• Fetal brain scans show response to touch. If you shine a light on your abdomen, your baby will turn his head, which according to researchers, means his optic nerve is working

Introducing our daughter

Melody Joy Kara Styles in 4d

Didn't really want to show her face but great pictures of her hand.
Very proud of her hand even when we looked at her feet the hand was there.

25 weeks

Well I have been to hospital since my last post. Baby is healthy.

My sugars were up so I have to go back this week for a full sugar test so Friday will be spent at the hospital get this test done.
I then I also have to go back the following week for my Anti D shot. I just love having a different blood group to my husband.
Baby is kicking around now most of the time.
Have the four D scan on Wednesday so will post photos on Thursday for that.

Week Twenty-Five

• The structures of the spine begin to form -- joints, ligaments and rings. These will protect the all important spinal cord which serves as the information transmitter for your child's body.
• Blood vessels of the lungs develop.
• Your baby's nostrils begin to open. There is a study out of Belfast that suggests babies at this stage have the capability of scent preferences!
• The nerves around the mouth and lip area are showing more sensitivity now. When baby is rooting for food later on, these will be valuable!
• His swallowing reflexes are developing.
• Dexterity is improving. Your baby can make a fist and would clasp objects placed in palm.
• Your child has now obtained an approximate length of 13.6 inches (34.6cm) and weighs 1.46 pound (660gm)

24 weeks

This week I am really showing and the bump is getting in the way now.

Week Twenty-Four

• Bring on the bulk! Baby gains about 6 ounces this week. The weight is in muscle, bone mass and organs.
• His body begins to fill out with his appearance increasingly becoming more like a newborn.
• Taste buds begin to form. If mom drinks something strange or bitter, baby may be observed showing his distaste.
• Little creases have appeared on his palms. The muscular coordination of his hands has improved as he sucks his thumb.
• Over the next seven days the sweat glands will be forming in the skin.
• His lungs are developing "branches" of the respiratory "tree" and cells that produce surfactant, a substance that helps the air sacs inflate easily.
• This week your baby is officially considered viable.
• Baby weighs 1.3 pound (600gm) and is 11.8 inches (30cm) long -- almost the length of a ruler!

23 weeks

Nothing new has happened. Baby kicks and moves as its supposed to.

I saw the hospital doctor last Wednesday everything is fine pregnancy is as normal as any other except for my blood pressure which was a little high.
But I hadn't had chocolate for a couple of days nor coke but it seems when I have a little bit of each it lowers my blood pressure.
I go back in two weeks for the sugar test.

Week Twenty-Three

• Proportions of the body are now quite similar to a newborn although thinner since he hasn't begun to form body fat.
• Bones located in the middle ear harden.
• Your baby is able to hear. (Dads, did you know: low-frequency sounds mimicking a male voice penetrate the abdomen and uterine wall better than the higher frequencies of the female voice?)
• The eyes are formed, though the iris still lacks pigmentation.
• The pancreas, essential in the production of hormones, is developing steadily. She has begun producing insulin, important for the breakdown of sugars.
• If born now, your baby has a 15% chance of survival, his odds going up with each passing day. .
• The average baby at this stage weighs 1.1 pound (501gm) and is 11.38 inches (28.9cm) long.

22 weeks

Today I am officially 22 weeks.

According to today's ultrasound I am 23 weeks and 1 day.
The baby looks like an alien still but everything is well.
I didn't see much this time but dh saw a great profile of baby's head and saw baby yawning.

At the last ultrasound the lady said it could be a girl as when she scanned the genitals it looked like what is the vulva walls but we weren't to quote her as she has been wrong before this time the new lady said it was presenting as a girl.

So we are having a girl yeah!

it still could be wrong but lets hope its not.

If it is a girl her name is Melody Joy.

But we do have a back up boys name if need be

Week Twenty-Two

• Your baby weighs close to a pound at this point!
• Your baby can now hear your conversations more clearly than before!. When you talk, read, or sing, expect her to hear you. Studies have found that newborns will suck more vigorously when read to from a book they heard frequently in utero.
• Eyelids and eyebrows are fully formed.
• Fingernails have grown to the end of the fingers.
• Be prepared for all those "Why" questions coming! Your baby's brain has entered a stage of rapid growth, especially in what's called the germinal matrix. This structure deep in the middle of the brain serves as a kind of factory for brain cells and disappears shortly before birth. But the brain's amazing expansion program continues until around the five birthday.
• With some help from mom, baby's liver is starting to break down bilirubin, a substance produced by red blood cells.
• If your baby is male his testes begin their descent to the scrotum.
• Primitive sperm have formed and he is producing testosterone.
• Length is 10.94 inches (27.8cm); weight is nearly 1 pound (430gm).

week 21

A little behind this week.

Had my first real kicks this week.
I feel the baby move but this was the first real kicks.
HAve another ultrasound next monday looking forward to that.

Week Twenty-One

• White blood cells are under production. Leukocytes (or white blood cells) form our body's defense sytems. They help fight infections and diseases.
• Your little one's skin has changed from translucent to become more opaque.
• Your infant's tongue is fully formed. If you were able to peek you might catch your son or daughter practicing giving you a raspberry!
• If your baby is a girl, her womb and vagina are formed. Unlike males, females have a limited supply of eggs in their lifetime. At this point your daughter will have 6 million eggs. This amount decreases to approximately one million by birth.
• Baby swallows more this week. After your baby takes in amniotic fluid, his body absorbs the water in the liquid and moves the rest into the large bowel. This is good practice for his digestive system!
• Wake and sleep periods become more consistent. Some research suggests that baby sets her internal clock to match the outside world's even before birth! Your eating and sleeping habits as well levels of light and noise serve as her signals.
• Length is now measured crown to heel.
• Baby measures about 10.51 inches (26.7cm) and weighs nearly 12.7 ounces (360g).

week 20

so far everything is fine.

Had a bit of a scare last week when I fell over a speed bump but was taken straight to the hospital and baby was fine but I was a bit sore and sorry all week.
Have another ultrasound on the 16th.

Week Twenty

• You're half way there!
• The rapid growth stage is about over. While things have slowed down, this next stage is vital to survival.
• The baby's heart grows stronger. Find a quiet place, lay flat on your back. Locate your own heartbeat by finding your pulse. Next lay your hand on your belly. You may be able to distinguish the two heartbeats!
• His legs are reaching their relative size. With the increase muscle develop occurring as well, you will start feeling much more than tiny flutter kicks soon!
• Immunities are being transferred from you to your baby now. These immune cells will protect her from viruses you've already had for up to six months after birth!
• The nerve cells for taste, smell, hearing, seeing, and touch are now developing in specialized areas of the brain. Production slows down as existing nerve cells grow larger and make more complex connections.
• Your baby may startle in reaction to loud sounds. Amazingly, she can actually hear noises outside of the womb. Familiar voices, music, and sounds that baby becomes accustomed to during her development stages often are calming after birth.
• If your baby is a girl, her uterus is starting to develop. She has approximately six million eggs in her ovaries. About one million will remain at birth.
• Baby is about 6.46 inches (16.4cm) and weighs around 10.58 ounces (300g).

19 weeks

Most of the things they say are happening I can feel the baby does have a few favourite positions . Just like its brothers under the ribs and also a new one under my gall bladder removal scar it likes to play there especially first thing in the morning.

I am feeling a bit more tired now but thats it.

Week Nineteen

• Your baby has the same awake and sleep patterns of a newborn. He has a favorite position for sleep and recognizable active and rest periods.
• Throughout baby's body, nerves are being coated with a fatty substance called myelin, which insulates the nerves so that impulses can flow smoothly.
• Scalp hair becomes apparent this week. It has sprouted and continues to grow.
• The milk teeth buds have already developed and over the next few days the buds for the permanent teeth will begin to form behind the milk teeth.
• If baby is female the uterus starts to develop. If you're having a girl, the vagina, uterus, and fallopian tubes are in place.
• If it's a boy, the genitals are distinct and recognizable.
• Your baby is swallowing amniotic fluid and his or her kidneys are making urine.
• Your little one's size is around 6.02 inches (15.3cm) and 8.47 ounces (240gm).

Is it a boy or girl?

I know I would tell you today but baby didn't agree it decided to keep its legs closed.
But everything went fine the kids came as well and the lady showed them the baby's head and feet and hands.
I have to go back in two weeks as she couldn't find the outlet valves for the heart but she said not to worry baby was not in the right position for her to see.
So maybe then baby will have its legs open so we can see.

18 weeks

Today I am 18 weeks. Only three more sleeps till we may find out what we are having (that's if the baby is in the right position).
This time the boys are coming to see the ultrasound this time.
I am feeling fine.

Week Eighteen

• Vernix (a white cheese-like protective material) forms on baby's skin with the lanugo (soft, lightly pigmented hair covering the body and limbs); both serving to protect your baby's skin during the months in water.
• Your placenta continues to grow and nourish the baby. Don't forget those prenatal vitamins!
• Tiny air sacs called alveoli begin to form in lungs. He'll be putting these lungs to good use in just a few months!
• Her vocal chords are formed. She goes through the motions of crying but without air she doesn't make a sound.
• Features of your baby's heart, including ventricles and chambers, should be visible during an ultrasound.
• Your baby measures about 5.59 inches (14.2cm) this week and weighs about 6.7 ounces (190gm).

I forgot my comment

LAst week (May7th) I saw the doctor for the first time.
First I saw the midwife and had all the usual tests and signed a few forms about testing baby and injection for baby after its born.
My blood pressure was good (well good for me lower then usual maybe that chocolate cure I read about is working lol)

The doctor asked all the usual question but when I bagged out my very first gyno (from 1989) he wasn't happy a he knows the man. I couldn't help myself that man scarred me against gyno's for life. When I was seeing him I wasn't all that keen on him but two of the women I worked with at the time had seen him for all their pregnancies and said he was good. They were much smaller then me of course (yummy mummies). After I my first son instead of saying to my mum congrats its a boy he said I got that weight off her now you get the rest!. Also when I couldn't breast feed I was very upset and all he said was well all women can't be cows. The last time I saw him he didn't even put in his notes what sex of child I had.
SO when I was having my second ds (1991) I was sick with my gall bladder the gyno walks in and says typical female fat and forty. So after he left I stormed out and demanded that I get a new doctor as I had already had a bad experience and this early in my pregnancy I will not put up with it. Well they calmed me down and they said that he was the best and I said I don't care I will not be treated that way. Well the next I saw him he was nice to me and thoughtout the pregnancy he saw me personally not his interns.
BUt enough about the past.

Although my odds of having a down's child are 1 in 536 the doctor said there was only one sure way to tell and that was with an ammio but that carry's a 1 in 250 chance of miscarry I think I'll stick with my 1 in 536 chance thanks at least didn't hurt the baby.
Also when we told him how excited the lady doing the ultrasound was about having a nasal bone he said that improves my odds as well so I am less likely now.
But I still have the same risks as anyone who is pregnant no matter what age. I am having a scan next week and hopefully find out what we as having as well.
As I will be in ultrasound dates 19 weeks and they can still do something about it then so they say. I think he means terminate if there is a problem.

17 weeks

Week Seventeen

• By week 17, your baby weighs about 4.97 ounces (140gm) and is 5.12 inches (13cm) long.
• He or she has a much more normal "human" appearance now. She holds her head more erect and her body and limbs are longer in proportion to her head.
• Pads are forming on his tiny fingertips and toes. Soon those individual swirls and whorls will be apparent.
• Her eyes are looking forward now, but they are still firmly closed.
• Meconium (composed of products of cell loss, digestive secretion and swallowed amniotic fluid), is accumulating in the bowel. This black gooey substance will become your baby's first poop!
• The umbilical cord is growing thicker and stronger and continues to rush blood and nutrients to your growing baby.
• If your child is male the prostate begins to develop.
• Her skeleton is tranforming from cartilage to bone. The bones remain flexible to make the journey through the birth canal easier.

week 16

Seeing the dr at the hospital this Wednesday for the first time.

Week Sixteen

• Fat begins to form underneath skin, providing your baby with insulation for the coming months.
• Did you know that both baby and placenta are now about the same size?
• Your little one has reached 4.57 inches (11.6cm) and approximately 3.53 ounces (100gm).
• His head and neck are held straighter now.
• This is a week of "mights!" You might hear the tiny thumps of his heartbeat with an external monitor now. The genitals are developed sufficiently that an experienced sonographer might be able to determine if your baby is a boy or a girl.
• Her heart is pumping as much as 6 gallons of blood a day and beats at a rate about double your heartrate.
• If you could take a peek inside, you would witness your child's reflexes in action! (Sucking, swallowing and blinking are now evident.) She is probably even hiccuping even though you don't feel it yet!
• Your baby has learned to breathe! This is apparent from the regular movements of his chest. Isn't it amazing that he is able to breathe "underwater," inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid? These actions help the lungs to develop and grow.

Week 15

Well I have had my first appointment at the hospital.
Which was fine but took a long time.
Colin got to feel my lump move on the weekend he was very surprised.
I still am feeling fine.

Week Fifteen

• You may begin to feel some fluttering movements as baby kicks, flails, twists and turns (but don't panic if you don't yet). She can also grasp, squint, frown, grimace and maybe suck her thumb!
• Your baby's legs have grown longer than the arms and the body is now longer than the head.
• And you'll be happy to note that he is moving those arms and legs often!
• His skin is very thin -- so thin blood vessel are visible. It's covered by a fine, soft layer of hair called lanugo. Lanugo comes from a Latin word meaning "down." This hair is thought to help insulate your little boy.
• The three tiny bones in his middle ear have begun to harden. The auditory centers in your baby's brain haven't developed yet, so she might not really understand what you say but her hearing capacity is in the process of developing.
• Fingernails and toenails are growing.
• Eyebrows are beginning to grow and even the hair his head is sprouting. It will probably change color and texture after birth.
• All this and your little one is an amazing 3.98 inches (10.1cm) long and may weigh 2.47 ounces (70gm).

week 14

At the moment the baby feels like a lump and every now and then it moves all over the place. So its nicknamed the Lump at the moment

Week Fourteen

• Thyroid gland has matured and your baby begins producing hormones which will be used throughout his or her life.
• In boys, the prostate gland develops
• In girls, the ovaries move from the abdomen to the pelvis
• Your little one may have learned to suck his thumb by this point!
• Your child's bones are getting harder and stronger by the day!
• Your baby's skin is very transparent still
• Lanugo (very fine hair) covers the baby's body and will continue to grow until 26 weeks gestational age - Generally this will be shed prior to birth. Its purpose is to help protect baby's skin while in all that water!
• Your baby is 3.42 inches (8.7cm) long and weighs about 1.52 ounces (43 grams) - approximately the weight of a letter!

13 weeks

Week Thirteen

• Your infant is about 2.91 inches (7.4cm) and weighs around 0.81 ounce (23gm) - This is about the same weight as 4 quarters.
• If you could peek in again you may spot your baby as he begins to practice inhaling and exhaling movements
• Eyes and ears continue to move and develop
• Baby's neck is getting longer, and the chin no longer is resting on his chest
• Her hands are becoming more functional - Your baby may find it comforting to start playing with her fist.
• At this point all nourishment is received from the placenta
• On your next doctor visit you should be able to hear heartbeat with a Doppler by now - (Don't worry though if you can't, the heartbeat can be confirmed through U/S). Your baby's heartbeat is much rapider than your own and may remind you of the race towards birth that he is running!

[return to top

12 weeks 3 days

Its official I now can tell everyone we are having a baby.

I have a new EDD.
15th of October 2008
Its my great niece Ruby's birthday.
my great nephew Hayden was born on my youngest birthday which was the first time in our family that a birthday was shared so its only fitting that another child gets to share a birthday as well.

I had my nuchal translucency on Wednesday.
I have a 1:536 of having a Down's baby which means I am low risk.
My children are happy for us and are looking forward to meeting the baby.

Week Twelve

• Vocal cords begin to form - While perhaps not quite ready to be introduced to the nearest opera stage, your infant will use these immediately following the moment of birth. Bet you can't wait to hear that first cry!
• Those precious eyes begin to move closer together - Are you wondering if he will have mommy's crystal green eyes, daddy's laughing brown ones, or maybe out of the gene pool will emerge grandma's clear blue!
• Ears shift to their normal place on the side of the head
• Intestines move farther in to your child's body
• His or her liver begins to function - Responsible for cleansing the blood, storing nutrients, and providing needed chemicals, this is an important event!
• The pancreas begins to produce insulin
• Guess what? Your baby's average size is now at a whopping length: 2.13 inches (5.4cm) and weight: 0.49 ounce (14gm)

11 Weeks

Wow only a few more days until we can tell people we are having a baby.

Maybe all depends on the tests I have this Wednesday.
I actually don't find out the results until Friday or Saturday so still hvae to wait.
This will also give us an exact date of birth as well.

I want to know as the HSC starts one day before the baby is due.

Week Eleven

• Nearly all structures and organs are formed and beginning to function.
• Fingers and toes have separated - Take a glimpse at how incredibly precious your child's tiny feet are at this point.
• Hair and nails begin to grow
• The genitals begin to take on the proper gender characteristics - It will be just a few more weeks before your ultrasound can show if you are having a boy or a girl! Have you been dreaming of pink or blue?
• Amniotic fluid begins to accumulate as the kidneys begin to function - This fluid, consisting primarily of water, helps provide a cushion for your baby while she's nestled within your womb.
• The muscles in the intestinal walls begin to practice contractions that digest food.
• Your baby is about 1.61 inches (4.1 cm) long and weighs 0.25 ounce (7gm).

10 weeks today

well that's based on my oringal dates occuring to the lastest ultrasound I should be 10 weeks 3 days.
I am stcking with the oringal dates until the next ultrasound on the 2nd of April as thats a big one that is very accurate.

Baby is

Week Ten

• Baby is now called a fetus in "medical terms". You, however, may have chosen the name "peanut," "angel," "jumping bean" or simply "miracle."
• The most critical part of your infant's development is complete. Now you are headed into a period of rapid growth.
• While a bit strange to envision, your baby's head is now about half its length - Soon the rest of the body's growth will catch up but this area is prepared to keep up with the rapid brain development!
• Eyelids fuse shut and irises begin to develop - Eye color is also determined by this point.
• Placenta begins to function this week or next - The placenta is the organ responsible for both the provision of nutrients along with the removal of waste to keep your baby growing strong!
• Your baby will be about 1.22 inch long (3.1cm) and weigh 0.14 ounce (4gm) at the end of this week

9 weeks 5 days

Had a bit of a scare on Thursday.
I had some clamps in my lower abdomen.
I had worked the day before and had been on my feet for about five hours something I don't do very often. In my normal job I get to walk around the store I don't just stand at the register but this was an extra shift as the shop was closed on my normal day.

So there I was with this clamps and being pregnant I was worried.

SO when I finally got to see my doctor she recommended that I get an ultrasound.
SO they rang the place up and they could fit me in two hours later.

Wow baby was so clear this time wiggling around.
Everything was fine I just over did it on Wednesday so from now on if I have to stand for a long time I will buy myself a stool.

Baby is growing well in fact she said that I was 9weeks 6 days along. So baby is big typical for my children.

So I have a new EDD now the 17th of October which actually suits me better thats during the school holidays and won't disrupt the HSC.

SO everything is fine and I now can see hands and feet on the baby it was beautiful

9 weeks one day

Today I am feeling better today/
Its just under three weeks now before we can or cannot tell people about the baby.
I can enjoy coffee again and have learnt that I have a better day if I have a can of coke a day I have a better day.

Week Nine

• Baby has begun movement - While still too small for you to feel, your little one is wriggling, shifting, and dancing already! Makes you almost wish for a window to peek in whenever you want!
• Most joints are formed now - and trust that your little one is practicing bending and flexing.
• Fetus will curve its fingers around an object placed in the palm of its hand - This is amazing to see! At only nine weeks, if you happen to have an ultrasound, you may observe your infant fascinated by everything he or she can lay their fingers on (mainly other fingers, toes, ears and nose!
• Fingerprints are already evident in the skin
• Average size this week -- length 0.9 inch (2.3cm), weight 0.07 ounce (2gm).

8 weeks and 2days

Well I haven't been well all weekend didn't throw up but came close.
On Monday I was off all day.
Still wasn't sleeping well.
Slept though on Monday night and woke up refreshed on Tuesday.
Had a great day only towards the end was I a bit off.

Today I am up early again not sick yet.

Seeing a new doctor today to see if she will look after me inbetween visits to the hospital. Due to my age and blood pressure problems.

That could be one of the reasons I am awake a bit nervous.

7 weeks

I am now seven weeks and one day pregnant very hard to keep it secret especially with getting invites to weddings.
We just got invited to a wedding 10 days before baby is due so we might not be able to go if its too far away.
Also its hard when everyone around you is having babies and you can't tell them that you are as well.

Our Baby Blog

I have started this blog so I can talk about my new baby.

Yes I am pregnant.

At the moment I am 6 weeks and 6 days pregnant.

But Colin and I can't tell anyone (except for strangers)

I am 41 years old.

This time we aren't telling anyone until we know everything is fine.

On Friday the 29th of February we saw our little peanut and saw its heart beating so we know we have a baby on the way and so far is doing fine.

This is the first baby we have ever conceived on our bed (not that interesting it means something to Colin and I).

From the dates it looks like we conceived over the sometime over the Australia Day Long Weekend.

When I didn't get my period within 23 days since my last period I know something was up!

So on the 13th of February I did a urine test and it was positive having never seen a positive I went out and bought two more tests and they were all positive so the next I had a blood test.

So on Valentines Day I found out I was 4 to 5 weeks pregnant.

The following week I had another test just to make sure I was still pregnant and the hormones in my blood had increased like its supposed to. So I happy.

Why can't we tell anyone?

Well we want to be sure the baby is healthy ie no birth defects

So on the 2th of April we will be having a test to confirm whether I am high risk or low risk for birth problems.
If all goes well then I will tell everyone but if it doesn't go well I will have to wait for the amnio at 15 weeks to confirm what the problem is.

Everything should be fine I have had two healthy births and I have lost weight and I am still losing weight.
I am looking after myself.
SO I am being positive .

Will add more later