cerclage

[HopeNFaith]

Hi,

I just got home from the hospital after having a cerclage put in. They found my cervix was shortening and opening...only 1 cm, but I'm glad they found out about it as soon as they did.

Has anyone else out there gone through this? I'm almost 21 weeks and I'm very nervous. They said the procedure went well, but that I would have to watch for infection which could bring on premature labor. I'm scared to death I'm going to end up with a urinary tract infection from the catheter (which fortuntately wasn't in long).

I just want to make it far enough where my babies have a fighting chance. These are my first babies and we had such a hard time getting pregnant to begin with.

We just found out last week that we are having two boys and have been so excited. Everything was going pretty well until now.

I understand this has a good chance at success. Anyone else been through this? Any advice?

Thanks for letting me vent!

[mamabear]

I havent gone threw this before. Stay off your feet. Drink at least a GALLON of water eat a LOT of protien. When you snack snack on peanuts chicken turkey. That will pack the weight on the babies. I will keep you in my prayers. Pee when you feel the urge come on dont hold it. I went in to premature labor due to strep b. I was never positive with my other kids with the twins I was. When dose your dr plan to test you??

[twoinoven]

hopenfaith,
I almost had a cerclage put in last week. I spent the night in hosp. My cervix was 2.5 Saturday morning and had funneling but seemed stable and firm upon internal exam. Sent me home on strict bedrest and weekly ultrasounds to measure cervix. Last tuesday it was 2.7. What was yours when they put the cerclage in? Did they do it under a local? Did it hurt? I am asking because no one told me what to expect yet. They still may do one if it continues to shorten. Did they say you have to stay on bedrest the rest of the pregnancy? I am not clear on whether you need to stay on BR with cerclage.
you are in my prayers.
:)
ps, mamabear, I LOVE your nicknames for the twins!

[HopeNFaith]

Twininoven,

I was only about one centimeter, but for whatever reason they decided not to wait and to do the cerclage immediately.

It was scary but not as bad as I would have thought. They gave me an epidural and then when I was numb they did the procedure. I didn't feel a thing. They put in a catheter too.

I was shaking uncontrollably during the operation partly from cold and partly from nerves. (At least my upper body was shaking, my bottom half I couldn't move or feel.) I also just read that it could also be a side effect of the epidural. The whole thing took about a half hour.

After in the recovery room I felt nauseaus and threw up a little, but was ok after that. I had to stay in the hospital overnight. They monitored my contractions to be sure I didn't go into premature labor.

I came home yesterday. I'm not in pain, just uncomfortable from laying on my side (the hospital bed was hard and not comfy at all...think it made me a little sore) My bed is more comfy, but it's hard finding a position that feels good for long.

And I'm on strict bedrest for a week. I go back to doctor's on Wed. and then see what happens. I was told that I could NOT go back to work for the rest of the pregnancy and that I would probably be on at least a moderate bedrest.

I've read that cerclage is has a good success rate, but of course I still worry. My biggest fear is the infection thing because the doc said it could put me in premature labor.

I know this is long, but I wanted to tell you what it's like.

Does anyone else have experiences about this to share? I'd love some reassurance.

Good luck twinin oven and thanks for your prayers!

[MichMom]

Hi Ladies,

I did not have a cerclage, so don't have specific info to share with you, but if you have computer access while lying down, you might want to check out the bedrest thread. There were a couple of people throughtout the thread's history with cerclages that faired very well.

One bit of advice would be to ask a lot of questions and really make sure you understand what's going on with your cervix. I was hospitalized for 6+weeks with a shorten cervix and got really upset once after an US results and it turned out things weren't really that different from the last check, I just had some misunderstandings. (difference between shortening/effacement and dilation, what funneling is, what the real risk levels are...)

Best of luck.

[twoinoven]

Thanks for the rundown Maria, now I know what to expect if they do one. What they told me was that if my cervix started to go below 2 cm they would HAVE to do a cerclage.
MichMom is right, the bedrest thread has examples of women who had successfull cerclages and it reassured me when I thought I was having one (and still may have) so you should read it.
I just can't wait to be over 28 weeks!

[mindybar]

hi hopinfaith and others!

i am from the bedrest thread and am one of the success stories of which twininoven and michmom speak! i was pretty much exactly in your position --- everything going just fine with pregnancy. went in at 21 weeks for high res ultrasound, and doc discovered that my cervix went from 4cm to less than 1/2 cm in two weeks! i immediately went to hospital from doc office, and had cerclage put in (after they stopped contractions that i didn't even know i was having). so, at 22 weeks was put on indefinite bedrest. after being on bedrest for 3 weeks i began having regular contractions again, so have been on the brethine pump and monitoring since then. my cervix went as long as 2.5 cm after cerclage, but soon shortened to right at the stitch at 1.5cm, where it has remained until now ... and guess what!? i'll be 36 weeks on tuesday!!!! the identicsal girls are 5 and 6 pounds, and everything is great.

one thing to mention that i was worried about ... a few weeks after the cerclage, sometimes my discharge was a VERY light brown or pink, and it was just the cerclage site. after a few weeks, that stopped. and really, everything has been smooth since then.

i have been VERY good ... i have not "snuck out" to run just one errand, or lifted anything ... i have had my gallon of water a day and peed as soon as i feel the urge ... my protein boosts have come mostly from healthy eating (my husband has always done the cooking), and also a carnation instant breakfast each morning ... milkshakes when i want them, fast food on weekends if i want it ... thursday, i am getting my hair cut and a trip to TARGET, so the babies can't come until then. that will be the first trip out of the house except for doc visits (12 visits since july 9).

my doc's first goal was 28 weeks, then 30, then 32 .... but you know? i NEVER had my goal set to less than 36, and it looks very much now like they will be removing the stiitch on the day i reach 37 weeks (21st), adn if there is ANY JUSTICE IN THE WORLD, i will quickly dilate and deliver the girls right away. i couldn't imagine having them in the hospital for weeks or months -- i was detemined to do what i could to bring them home with us, and best chance for that was making it to 36.

it has gone very fast for me -- i've been able to work, and my husband has been amazing, as weill as extended family and even my 3yo son has been very very good.

set goals along the way, and if you are so inclined, celebrate the big ones with a glass of champagne or a banana split!

sorry for so long --- best to all!

[HopeNFaith]

Mindy, thanks so much for sharing your story with me. I did also look at the bedrest thread and found some reassurance there too.

I feel much better physically and mentally now that I've been home a few days. Took my first shower today since the cerclage was put in (this past Thursday) and wow does that ever help how I feel too!

I'm still a little worried though because I too didn't even realize I was having contractions when I was in the hospital. And sometimes I'm still not sure if what I'm feeling is a contraction or gas or even the babies moving. How have you been able to tell?

Yes, my first goal will be to get to 28 weeks, but I hope that I can go as long as you have! 28 weeks is seven weeks from now and boy, does that seem like a long time to me!

Mindy, you said you had some discharge right after the cerclage went in? I had a little bit the other day too, but is that normal? Haven't had any since then. I see my doc on Wed, but will call before that if I get any again.

Anyway, thanks so much for your support! And good luck with your delivery. Please let us know how it goes.

[brajohn1]

hi everyone!
it is so comforting to read that other people are going through the same thing as me. i had a cerclage put in at 20 1/2 weeks after finding out that my cervix was funneling at measured 2... after a week of bedrest and meds to see if it would stop (or get bigger) we found out that it had shortened more, to 1.6. so i went into the hospital and had an amnio to check for infection, then the cerclage. it was a terrifying experience because i was having contractions, which were unexpected. after a few days, i was able to come home. the contractions and irritabilty are better, but not gone. on the bright side, the cerclage is holding nicely and measuring at 3. i also had discharge for several days afterwards, but it has stopped. i'm at 23 weeks now, just counting the days until i get to 28 or 29 weeks (i'll feel much better then!)... did any of your doctors put you on motrin (ibuprofen)? myn doctor (who is a respected perinatologist who has done many cerclages) said that the motrin helps with preterm labor and can also help solidify the cervix... i'm just wondering if any one else was given this...
i'd love to hear how everyone is doing.... i'm just laying around these days!
brandy

[HopeNFaith]

Hi Brandy,

It is a great comfort to hear others share the same kinds of experience. Wish none of us had to go through it though.

Right now I'm just dying to get to the doctor's again so I can see if this is working or not.

My doctor didn't mention motrin, but I'll ask when I go in.

Did the amnio hurt? What was that like? We didn't do one to find out the sexes, just did u/s instead. (two boys!) They recommended the amnio for me since I'm 36, but I just couldn't see taking the chance of something going wrong from it. And they didn't mention doing it before the cerclage went in either.

I'll be laying around too, so I'm sure we'll be seeing each other around the boards. This has been such an incredible line of support and information for me. I'm so glad I found it! Actually, my wonderful hubby did!

[brajohn1]

hi maria,
thanks for writing. the amnio went fine, but i have to say that i was completely freaked out when they did it. my husband and i had elected not to do it before all this happened (i'm 31 and just didn't want to take the risk with twins).. but when i got to the hospital i had a lot of uterine irritability and some contractions so the doctors wanted to check for infection before placing the cerclage (one of the residents told me "you'll lose the pregnancy if there is infection" so i was a total wreck). my doctor performed the amnio, which was very quick (like 1 minute). he only took out enough fluid to test for infection,no genetic testing. fortunately it was negative. about an hour after getting the results, they did the cerclage. i have to say that it was a really scary day, but now i'm home and three weeks have passed so i'm feeling better, but i still worry.

are you stll having contractions? i still have occasional ones, but my doctor felt confident enough about things that he took me off terbutiline (which i took for about a week and a half after the cerclage). he said some contractions are normal. he said if i have other symptoms (like back pain) along with frequent, regular contractions, I should call them. i wish i weren't feeling any at all- i sure would feel better. (when i read about braxton-hicks contractions, it sounds like what i'm feeling).

we are having a boy and girl! i'm so excited. this is my first pregnancy. how about you?
talk to you soon!
brandy

[Media]

Hi ladies,
I don't know if the original request for cerc stories has been satisfied yet... But I thought I'd tell you I had a cerc put in at 17w4d. I went in, walking, for a routine u/s and came out 3 days later in a wheelchair w/ a cerclage and bedrest for the next 18 weeks!

I was put on serious bedrest--not "strict" but I basically did not stand up for the next 4 months. Lots of lying around on the couch and sitting. If your doc is not putting you on bedrest, ask why and if it is the best thing. I know bedrest s*cks (believe me I *know*) but you DO want to keep pressure off your cervix, and as the babies get bigger they'll exert more/more pressure. If it was serious enough to put in a cerclage, I would think it might be serious enough to REALLY keep off your feet.

So anyway--I had my cerclage in til the end of my pregnancy; I had it removed at 36-37 weeks. I half expected to go into labor the next day. But guess what: the tissue around the stitch often scars and forms its own kind of seal, and that's kinda what happened to me. I had to be induced at 37w4d!! My babies were full term and weighed 5lb10oz and 5lb13oz. They spent no time at all in the NICU and are still perfectly healthy. I know that cerclage and bedrest is to thank for that.

So my advice is: TAKE IT SERIOUSLY and really press your doctor about acceptable activity level (ask point blank why s/he doesn' recommend bedrest yet?).

Good luck to all of you and HopeNFaith, you should feel really great that you made it to 21 weeks already--your journey to the "safe" gest age is a lot shorter than mine. TAKE IT REALLY EASY and good luck.

[oneplusII]

Hi!

I have to agree with Media. Even if your doctor hasn't put you on bedrest, I would consider it and I would take it very easy.

I also had a cerclage at 21 weeks. I was 90 % effaced and in preterm labor. I was on hospital bedrest for 11 weeks and home bedrest for 4 weeks. It was hard at the time, but so worth it.

So, my advice to you would be to take it very easy, drink lots of water and try not to worry.

Good luck and keep us posted!

[mindybar]

wow, so many stories about cerclages! this is great for those who inquired, i know ...

hopeinfaith, couple of things ... one, i had absolutely no idea i was having contractions, either! i didn't feel them until weeks later. and even then, i wouldn't have known, unless it was pointed out to me. just feels like a tightening, no pain. after having the cerclage, 3 weeks later i started on the pump and home monitoring, due to irritability and contractions --- i was so surprised i was having them. now, i can feel them, most of them, and i have 3-7 per hour. but with no other symptoms, that is perfectly fine. and they still don't hurt.

i mentioned the discharge i had because i was a bit alarmed and hadn't seen anything about it on the threads. the tinge of color was so very faint, i thought maybe i was just being paranoid .. my doc said it was normal and was originating from the cerclage site. and it went away.

as for infection ... you should be out of the woods for that. i think i took 3 days worth of antibiotics for that. and i had IV antibiotics right after. i don't know for sure --- just seemed like it was only a concern for a few days.

i can't agree with mediamom more about taking the doc's orders seriously, no matter what! i've read a few posts (of course i won't mention names!!) where women snuck out to the grocery store or shopping because they "just had to, they were going crazy". i can certainly sympathize, but i really suggest resisting doing anything, especially anything involving riding in a car, lifting anything, or sitting upright --- i even eat dinner somewhat reclined. once you get in the routine, it will get so much easier.

(as a sidenote, the more you do, the more those that are helping will think or say "okay, you did THAT, so why can't you do laundry?" also, the more i did, even just things like sit in the grass outside or pick up the playroom toys, the more contractions i would have)

i had been on bedrest for 2 weeks, when my sweet 3yo son fell and hit his forehead on the brick fireplace ... DH had to take him to the ER --- my dear neighbor drove them, and waited for two hours while he got stitched up. i had to just sit here on the couch, wringing my hands. but now, you can hardly see his scar, and i'm still here with the baby girls safely inside me.

i'm not saying all of this to say "hey, look at me" --- i just want to say that YOU CAN DO IT, and the closer you get to your goals, the better you will feel about doing it the RIGHT WAY! three weeks ago, i made a haircut appt for this magical week 36 and planned a lunch with my husband ... we're going to lunch TODAY!!! and i get may hair cut and a trip to target on thursday. lunch today will be such a treat, if i can find something to wear ...

when i got my computer system up and running (i have been able to work from home), the first thing i did was mark milestones on the calendar ... every two weeks i put "XX days on BR, XX days to go" ... tomorrow is the last day of all of those milestones ... it reads "day 98, 36 weeks".

best to all of you -- mindy

[brajohn1]

hi mindy
i feel relieved to read that you have been having contractions and have managed to make it to 36 weeks.
i was having contractions when i went in for the cerclage (which i did not feel) and went on mag sulfate in the hospital, then terbutiline pills when i came home. i continued to have them, i'd say an average of about 2 per hour. the doctor said that since i had no other symptoms and the cerclage was holding nicely, he wanted to get me off the terbutilline. so for the past week i've been off the medication and i've been worried because i'm still feeling these contractions. i'm at 23 weeks and don't want to go into labor!
my contractions are painless, just a tightening feeling and my belly hardens. sometimes i can see my tummy swell up when i have one or sometimes one side will swell up while the othe remains soft. i've also noticed that many times i have to go pee when i get a contraction. does this sound like what you have experienced?
i'm on modified bedrest and have stuck to what the doctor says - i get up to shower, go to the bathroom and get something quick to eat. otherwise i'm lying down.
this has been my biggest worry lately... i just wish they would go away!!!
any advice or info you have would be greatly appreciated!!!!
brandy
p.s. i also had a lightly colored discharge after the cerclage, but it went away after several days.

[mindybar]

brandy, based on my experience you should not worry at all about having 2 contrax an hour .. and what you are experiencing sounds exactly like how mine feel. if this is any comfort, i was having 4-5 an hour at 24 weeks, and i was on terbutaline! as long as they aren't painful, no other symptoms, you are fine ... in my opinion! and yes, i definitely feel the urge to pee when i have them. that's the uterus pushing on your bladder, of course. and the longer you stay off the terbutaline, the better ... though i have been on it since 24 weeks, and it is still very effective for me.

[HopeNFaith]

I had a check up at the doctors yesterday. I was really worried about that discharge so they had me come in. Said it was bacteria and they gave me meds to clear it up. The stitches look good and are holding. That was all a huge relief to me.

I feel contractions now and then also, but they don't happen very often thank goodness. I was told as long as I don't have more than 4 an hour I was ok just as Mindy was saying. Are you guys at home taking terbutaline? Are they pills, shots or what? I had it through my IV at the hospital, but not since then.

Brandy, these are my first babies too and I'm very excited. We've tried for a long time to get pregnant.

I'm so glad I've found you ladies! You've been wonderful support! I'll keep you all in my prayers.

[brajohn1]

hi hopenfaith,
glad to hear your doctors visit went well. i go in tomorrow for an ultrasound (the one where they do all babies' measurements,etc.) so i'm looking forward to that. what is your cervix measuring now? at my last visit i was in the low 3 range, which was about double what i was went i went in for the cerclage.
i was on terb pills for about 2 weeks after the cerclage because i continued to have an irritable uterus and sporadic contractions. at my last visit the doc took me off because the irritability was better and my contractions don't seem to follow any pattern and aren't accompanied by other symptoms. they haven't seemed to get worse since i've been off the meds, but i still have them. wish they would go away. at least now i know what they are - how to differentiate between babies kicking and contractions. when i went into the hospital i didn't even know i was having them.
i had a mucousy discharge after the cerclage, but that has gone away. (doc said this was normal, especially since he double-stitched me and tacked up my bladder). now i get an occasional, light discharge but i haven't been too worried. i'm going to bring it up at the docs tomorrow. i also suspect that i'm leaking a little urine, which i will also ask about tomorrow.
how long did you and your husband try to get pregnant? did you use fertilty treatments? i was lucky with this - in fact, i got pregnant a week after being off the pill. amazing.
anyway, i'm rambling on now... please keep in touch and hang in there!
brandy

[jessicaNJ]

It's been so great to read the threads from you all. I am 19wks 2 dys and am having my level II u/s next Thursday. Is that when you found out your cervix was shortening? I haven't had a vaginal u/s since my 8 wk visit. I'm not a worry-wart, I just want to make sure all my bases are covered!

[brajohn1]

hi jessica,
i found out my cervix was funneling when i went for my ultrasound at 19w3d. everything with the babies looked fabulous so i was really excited, then the doc performed the transvaginal ultrasound and discovered that my cervix was funneling (meaning it was opening up). fortunately they caught it in time to do a cerclage (where they stitch it closed). the extra weight of the twins combined with my naturally small cervix was causing it to open early.
be sure your doc does a transvaginal u/s - they can't usually tell from the abdominal u/s. and ask your doc what your cervix is measuring - anything over 3 is good. some women have measurements around 5 even.
remember that this is pretty rare - chances are that you are fine.
good luck!

[brajohn1]

for any of you who have had a cerclage - do you think it is okay to take a bath? i've been taking quick showers (i'm on bedrest). i'd love to soak in a warm tub but don't know if it is okay.
any ideas?

[Media]

I asked my docs re: cerclage and baths

I definitely had to wait a little while after teh cerclage (2 wks???)-but then my high risk OB (who put the cerc in and was the one who ordered me to bedrest) said that I could take a bath as long as it was
1) not TOO hot
2) without any bubbles or anything else (ie, just plain water)

Of course, I would check w/ YOUR doctor for his/her advice on baths. But I know I would have been a lot more tense w/o my baths. I loved that.

And to that I'd add: BE REALLY CAREFUL if you're taking a bath. Make sure you do not slip and fall. When you get to a certain point, I'd advise you to get out of the tub in this way: by getting on all fours and then SLOWLY rising one foot at a time, w/ both hands supporting yourself on the sides of the bath. Your center of balance is off and is going to get worse, so BE CAREFUL

Check w/ your doc--but I'd say, enjoy your baths! I haven't had a single one since giving birth... :(

[twoinoven]

Hi everyone,
Well, they put a cerclage in at 5:00 yesterday afternoon. I felt weird all night Sunday and called the midwives Monday morning. They said to come in and checked me out and said everything looked okay but they would move up the cervical ultrasound if if would make me feel better. I am glad I said yes because the cervix had shortened to 2.1 after being almost 2.8 last week. My doctor called a perinatologist in Denver who she consulted with about me last week and he recommended putting one in. Actually they put two in. I am so glad I had been on this thread because I knew what to expect. They offered to knock me out since I have had three back surgeries but I said I'd take the spinal. I hated it, had a hard time afterwards with nausea etc. But I am glad it is over. now I am back home. No contrax, just a little cramping in cervical area, and some drops of red blood when I go potty. Doctor says that is allokay unless it increases. When do I know there will be no infection etc? I see the doc in one week for cervical ultrasound and exam.
If anything I am even going to be more careful with bedrest because I had 'cheated' a little last week, just doing some small chores for about an hour one day.
The worst thing about the whole hospital thing was that my husband and I are separated and I was there through it all alone. It didn't hit me until they asked in post op if there was anyone waiting for me in the waiting room and I had to say no...

[brajohn1]

hi twininoven,
how are you feeling? well you are an offical member of the cerclage club!! if it makes you feel better, my cervix measured 1.6 when i got mine and i also got double stictched and they tacked up my bladder. fun , fun.
i'm sorry that you had to go through that alone. i can certainly relate to loneliness. my husband has a very demanding job and i am alone a lot of the time. i recenty moved to seattle ( we just got married a few months ago) and i don't have close friends here. my husband has been great, but i know he is stressed out trying to balance work, his 8 year old son and my bedrest. so i find myself at home on the couch by myself quite a lot.
After my cerclage i was in the hosp for two days because of the contractions. they had me on IV antibiotics to prevent infection. i think after a week or so (maybe less) you are out of the woods on infection.
i also had some bleeding for about 2 days i think, but then it stopped. my first measurement after the cerclage was 3.8! i go for an u/s today (the big one where they check the organs and measurements, etc), so i'm curious to see how the stitches are holding. my peri says that sometimes the funneling will open back up again behind the stitches (dont really understand this), but it will still hold. so far mine has not done that (3 weeks).
i'm going to try to stay in bed as much as possible - i've been getting up to go potty, to make something to eat, and to shower, but thats about it. just from everything i've read on this thread, it sounds like rest is the best way to success.
are you able to support yourself financially through this? how are you doing emotionally?
take care,
brandy

[Media]

my peri says that sometimes the funneling will open back up again behind the stitches (dont really understand this),

This means that your cervix can be opening up from the inside--up to the point where the stitch is. The stitch keeps it from opening further, tho of course it's better if the stitch helps to keep the cervix closed BEYOND the stitch point itself.

take it easy ladies--you should all join the bedrest thread--it saved my sanity in 18 weeks of bedrest! Everyone hanging out there knows the frustraton and loneliness. You will find lots of support there.

[twoinoven]

Brandy,
My bright red spotting stopped completely last night and the cramps too. That made me feel a whole lot better. I wonder what the sucess rate for cerclage is? I am coping okay financially, I am on Medicaid, food stamps a nd WIC. I am applying for temp. aid to needy families too. I get child support for my son so that helps too. My husband has been paying the mortgage so far, although he is now out of work so I'm a little nervous. We got married on May 22 and I got pregnant the same day I think. It was exactly 14 days after my LMP.
As far as emotionally, I am doing okay unless I really let myself think about going through all this alone, then I know I'm human because it really gets me. I do have a great counselor though, and she made a house call last night and that helped.
Mediamom, I am definately on the bedrest thread too! Lots of support everywhere here!

[HopeNFaith]

Hi everyone,

Twininoven, sorry you had to have the cerclage after all. Hope you're doing well. I had some blood also for about two days afterwards. They told me that was normal as long as it tapered off and stopped which it did.

My husband was allowed to stay with me overnight in my room. Not too comfy for him, but was so glad. I would have been more scared if he hadn't been there.

My cervix is now measuring 2.8 so I guess that's good. But the doc said the first u/s probably didn't measure accurately and it probably wasn't as bad as they originally thought (said it measured 1!!)

I don't know when you're out of the woods for infection. I'll have to ask tomorrow. I go back to finish the big u/s where they measure everything. Last time they just couldn't get a clear shot of the hearts, so I had to come back to see if the boys switched position some. They seem to move around a lot.

Brandy, my hubby and I tried for a number of years. I had two miscarriages very early on with my ex many, many moons ago. But that just added to my anxiety level. I'm so thankful to have made it this far! We did IVF after many other treatments. Fortunately the first cycle worked. I'm psyched to be having twins because this could very well be my only pregnancy/children given all we've been through.

Mediamom, I've tried to post on the bedrest thread, but it never seems to work. Don't know why. I don't have trouble with other threads. Anyone else have problems with that?

Oh yeah, I was told to stick to showers because the bath could cause a risk of infection. Don't mean to scare anyone, but that's what I was advised.

I may have said this before, but I'm so glad to have this thread and you ladies to "chat" with. Thanks for all the support!

[brajohn1]

hi to everyone!
well i had a good doctors visit today. i'm so relieved. this was the u/s where they do all the measurements. they said everything looked normal with the babies. said they each weigh around a pound and a half and they are measuring at 23 1/2 weeks, which is right where i am. the other bit of good news was that my cervix measured 3.6!! yippee! that is more than double what it was when i got the cerclage and there is no funneling. so the doc said i can go get my hair cut!! yippee! my hair has not been cut in 3 months and it is a wreck.
i'm still having contractions, but my peri is not overly concerned since i don't have other symptoms and my cervix is holding. i wish they would go away, but i'm just going to try to be thankful for the news i got today.
how is everyone else doing?

[twoinoven]

Checking in! I am doing fine. No more bleeding and no more cramps, just an occasional BH, but I think it is in response to the kick boxing going on at times in there, or when I do something, like shower. I go to the doctor for followup next tuesday for cervical measuring. Praying it is better!
I didn't have trouble with the bedrest thread.

[HopeNFaith]

Glad to hear it seems as though everyone is hanging in there ok.

Had another doc visit. They finally were able to see both hearts with four chambers each. So babies themselves seem fine.

Said it looks like my cervix might be funneling a little bit again. Sent me home to stay on bedrest to be followed by weekly sonos and doctors visit.

Other than a mild, but annoying cold, I'm doing ok. Look forward to hearing everyone's updates!

[MichMom]

Mindy -- just wondering where you are.

[mindybar]

aw, thanks for asking, michmom ... i'm doing fine, better than fine! 36.5 weeks, low BP, babies doing great, even my contrax seem to be steadying ... hey, i'm going the wrong way! my mom arrived yesterday morning, and we had a great day. she took me to get my hair cut, so now i will be all glamorous like jennifer anniston when i deliver. also, spent a couple hours shopping at target. i rode around in one of those motorized carts, and it was a load of fun. closest i've come to driving in 4 months! spent a needless small fortune.

so much catching up to do! not sure i can ... first, twoinoven, sorry about the cerclage, but i know it saved my babies. my cervix has been open to right at the stitch since i had it, about 1.6cm. initially, it did go as high as 2.8cm, but quickly shortened but remained stable for 14 weeks, so don't be discouraged if that happens. i was going to scold you for "getting up and doing a few chores" until you reminded us that you are basically going through this alone ... i am so sorry. you are a strong woman. i really don't see how you are managing ... are you driving to the doc appts? i have had the extreme bessing and privilege of the most supportive husband and immediate family. do you not live near your family to get help? others, i don't recall if you are going through this alone, but if you are, my heart and admiration go out to you. for me, it has definitely taken a village ...

twoinoven, little side note ... did you notice that i have been calling you TWINinoven up until now, lol?

brandy, so glad you had a good report at the doc ... were you able to get your hair cut before being put back on bedrest? obey the doctor!! regarding baths or showers, my doc said i could take a 10 min bath, but that was before i got the t-pump. now, i have to stick to showers, since i basically have an IV in my leg.

hopeinfaith, if by having trouble you mean that you lose your post after writing a long one, be sure to highlight the text before posting, copying it, and then if you have to relogin (i often do), you can just paste your post back in. other than that, i haven't had problems. hope your cerclage infection has healed by now!

michmom, we're almost there, girl! what is your plan again? tuesday, at 37 weeks, i will have my cerclage and meds removed --- i'm really hoping to be dilating immediately, as i am about an hour from the hopsital, and living in atlanta. we have really bad rush hours ...

[twoinoven]

Maybe if I try to keep a sense of humor about it....
I have started building the "stack 'o pillows" to relieve the heartburn since nothing else seems to be working. One of my doctors said I could take Pepcid or Zantac but I am hesitant, have been trying dried papaya, aloe juice and of course TUMS but not very sucessfully.
Tonight I used about six pillows and it really seemed to help, but I am a snuggler so I am not sleeping all that well.
Mindy, my girlfriend is using my van and she picks me up for doctors appts. My family are mostly in Florida. I have not told my mom we are separated, she disapproved of us marrying too quickly and she is an 'I told you so' mom. I was in Atlanta area for training at Anheuser Busch almost five years ago, I hear you about the rush hours there! It was BAAAAAD!
To you and Michmom, I am so excited for you to be so near to seeing your babes in person!
Please let me know about having the cerclage removed. Do they do a spinal again for it? I had read an account of a woman who had to have it removed when she suddenly went into labor almost at the push stage and they had to remove hers with no anesthesia I think and she said it was the most painful thiing she ever felt. I hated the spinal but if I have too......
Oh, I did notice the twin in oven! but hey, same thing right?:D

[twoinoven]

When you all had the cerclage, did the doctor stilll continue to do weekly cervical ultrasounds to measure?

[mindybar]

twoin, i asked about the cerclage removal procedure and it sounds very simple ... doc uses a speculum (like they do for a pap smear), sticks a clamp somewhere up there, then he can actually see it, and snip snip and it's out. no epidural or anything. done right there in the office. and i had a vaginal ultrasound with every visit. after a few fluctuations, it went to the stitch at 1.6 or something like that, and stayed.

[twoinoven]

Mindybar,
that's a relief, maybe the woman in the story had pain because she was already starting to push and the baby was bearing down on the cervix. I think they had to push back his head to do it.

[brajohn1]

hi to everyone,
how comforting to hear that you have made it this far mindy! it gives us all hope!
i'm still feeling good, going to get my first haircut in months today. my hair is a disaster!
i'm going to try not to overdo it, even though the doc said i could sit up a bit more and even get up a little more. apparently the bedrest was really working for me, so i don't want to push it.

last night i had some pains between my legs, right at my vagina... have any of you had this? it seems to have stopped this morning. it felt like sharp, quick pains, not excruciating, but noticeable... should i be worried? as i said before my doctors visit on wednesday was very positive, so maybe i'm just being paranoid?

twoinoven - i get heartburn too. i have tums and saltines right at my bedside. i find that a couple of saltines helps. i also got one of those body pillows, the one that curves at the top and goes all the way down to your feet on each side. it is wonderful!!!! you can order them online. i feel like i'm in my own cacoon when i go to bed!

i'm still having contractions, but apparently not enough for the docs to put me back on the meds. i'm totally off medication now. how many contracs do you guys have in an average day? i have anywhere from 3 to 10...

hang in there everyone!

[brajohn1]

to answer your question twoinoven,
i've had an u/s every week since the cerclage (4weeks). i've got to call today to see if he still wants me to come in every week, he might have me come in in two weeks this time.

brandy

[HopeNFaith]

Hello everyone,

Brandy, I had that same kind of pain too and was wondering about it myself.

Twoinoven, I've been saying "twininoven" too! oops!

Mindy, you went right to the stitch? I'm really glad to hear it held up because I think that's whats happening with me. Had a confusing doctors visit yesterday. At first I was told it was funneling again and right up to the stitch. Then the sono tech looked to see how it had been measured a few days before (by a different tech). When she went back and remeasured she said it looked more closed and better, but then it seemed to open up while she was looking. She asked me if I was having a contraction, but I didn't feel a thing. So I'm not exactly sure where I'm at right now. I go back next week to check again.

Speaking of contactions, sometimes I still don't know if I'm actually having one or if it's gas or the babies moving. Can you all tell me what a contraction feels like to you? Maybe it will help me understand my body better.

[brajohn1]

hopenfaith - i think i'm finally figuring out the difference between a contraction and babies kicking. it helped when i was in the hospital and had the monitor on, b/c i could see when the contractions were happening and i learned how it felt..
the contraction feels like my belly is tightening up and when i touch it, it is really hard. i mean really hard. if i look at my tummy it swells up and i can even see it swelling. it usually passes in about 30 seconds. in my case, they are not painful. every now and then, one side will tighten and swell and the other side will remain soft. my doc says these are likely BH contractions...
the babies kicking do not make my belly harden and i usually feel them in small areas.. maybe a foot on my upper left side,for example. it also feels like fluttering when they are both kicking at the same side.
many times with a contraction i instantly have to pee from the pressure. kicking doesn't do that to me.
hope i didn't confuse you even more!
brandy

[twoinoven]

Hi Girls,
last night I had 8 contractions in 75 minutes, called the midwives and went into hospital to get monitered. Of course they stopped right before the moniter went on! Anyway, they gave me a bag of fluids, checked my blood and urine. No UTI. But my white blood cells were elevated. No temp. Sent me home. Called me this morning, I had the flu shot on Monday and wondered if that could cause this, they called an infectious disease doc and he said no. I went to have blood drawn. WBC still up, still no temp or symptoms. Tomorrow going for amniotic fluid check by ultrasound, then saturday morning redraw blood and then decide what is going on. They mentioned amniocentesis to see if I had an infection of the fluid. I hope not, no tenderness of the uterus. They mentioned having to go on IV antibiotics possibly? I don't know what's up, no more contractions other than the usual occasional BH now. Will keep you all posted, anyone else have an elevated WBC count during pregnancy? I am wondering why they don't just give me some antibiotics orally now if they suspect I am fighting an infection, aren't they pretty safe with pregnancy?

[brajohn1]

hang in there twoinoven. i had IV antibiotics with my cerclage. i think they feel that IV antiobiotics are more effective than oral. i also had an "emergency" amniocentesis before i went for the cerclage because they feared infection in the amniotic fluid. (i was having contractions and the mag wasn't slowing them down like they wanted). needless to say, this was a traumatic day. i did not want an amniocentesis (had no intention of getting one for genetic testing), but they wouldn't do the cerclage without it. fortunately the results of the amnio were negative so they proceeded with the cerclage. i was panicked afterwards, worrying that my water would burst after all that invasion into my body. but that was a month ago and things are going smoothly now. they say that if you have an amnio, they'll know within a couple of hours if you are leaking.... chances are very low.
i haven't had an elevated WBC that i know of, but i did have some discharge that worried me, they tested it and it was negative. have you had any discharge? if it is colored or has an odor, this signals infection.
how are the contractions today? i think i've told you i've had them all along.... but they seem to be slowing down now.
keep us informed. i'm thinking of you! just trust your instincts and if something doesn't feel right, go to the docs! you will be ok.

[twoinoven]

Brajohn,
Thanks for your help. The fluid levels on both babies were fine, still no temp or other signs. No, no discharge either. HOWEVER.... both babies have completely changed positions! And my cervix 'flipped'?, it was anterior and is now kind of on an angle? But it is firm, smooth and 4 cm!! Baby A is head down and kind of diagonal with his back arched, Baby B is way up and transverse! No wonder I had contractions! which have, by the way, gone away except back to the normal couple a day brought on by me changing positions. I think these kids just had a "twin dance Party" the other night! (they had both been head down)
Still going for a blood draw in the morning, but honestly, I feel great!

[brajohn1]

great news twoinoven! congrats!
one of my babies changed positions a few days ago and boy did i feel it! my boy (B) moved from head down to transverse, just under my ribs. when he moved he was kicking the **** out of me!! my girl (A) is still head down.
tomorrow i will be 25 weeks! this whole cerclage/shortened cervix thing started at 19w3d. I will feel so much better when i get to 30 weeks (out of the twenties). i'm just counting the days.
they measured my cervix on thursday and it was 3.5cm, still holding steady, no funneling. relief!
wow yours measured 4cm!!! incredible!! i don't know if i understand about it flipping? but if it means you get 4cm, then let it flip!!

[twoinoven]

I'm not sure I understood the flipping cervix thing either, but what she said is that it was waaaay back with the os coming forwards, now it is the other way? Who knows, but , yeah, I couldn't believe 4 cm either! I think I know when they turned, I felt like I was getting kicked in the lungs! Like an electric jolt!
Like you, I am counting the weeks down, I will breathe a huge sigh when I hit 30 weeks.
I'll bet you can't sit up anymore either. When I do, it is so uncomfortable, I have to lean back for relief.
I didn't have any funneling this time either, but when she put the probe in my cervix did 'ball up' and contract for a minute then smoothed out.
P.S. When your babes change position that dramatically, does it make your uterus contract?

[brajohn1]

hey all,

twoinoven, i think that when the babies move around a lot, it can cause contractions (this is just my personal opinion).. sometimes when i have a contraction i can feel them in there kicking around. it makes sense to me that it could cause contractions...

the doc said it was ok (in fact, he brought it up) for me and my husband to go out to dinner. so we ate at a mexican restaurant last night! my first time in months...

even though the doc is pleased with things, i don't want to overdo it. i'm going to try to stay down as much as possible.

today i'm 25w2d... counting down the days... things have been a little stressful around here with hubby.. he is feeling the strain of having to do everything... have any of you had this come up?

hang in there!

[HopeNFaith]

Hi Ladies,

My computer has been down for about a week and boy did I miss it and especially this message board!

Brajohn, glad that things checked out ok for you. I had my own little "scare" yesterday. I had been leaking fluid slowly. Went in and the did u/s and tests. It's not amniotic fluid thank God! My boys are fine. They did find I had a bacterial infection which was causing the watery discharge. Gave me a vaginal suppository cream for it.

My cervix is still funneling and measuring 1.5 cm. I'm envious of you guys....wish my cervix would close up some more too! Doc said if it's just an incompetent cervix the cerclage will hold up. If I go into preterm labor though, he said the stitches won't make a difference. I'm 23 weeks now and haven't really had any kind of contractions since the cerclage was done, so I guess so far, so good!

I go for weekly u/s sounds and checks too. Think it will be that way til the end for me. I'm counting down the days also! It's scary though...I just want to make it to a safer zone already!

Anyway, so glad to be back and hear that you're all ok too. You are always in my thoughts and prayers.

[HopeNFaith]

Sorry, I had it wrong...twoinoven, you had the possible infection. Glad things seem okay now...did they do anymore tests?

[twoinoven]

Maria.
They decided that my WBC count was elevated due to the flu shot anyway. No other signs or anything so they said not to worry. I had and ultrasound today and both babies are 1.5 lbs, one head up one head down, cervix is 4.5 cm long, I cannot believe it. I feel a lot more encouraged to keep up this bedrest. Seems to be working!
I did get permission to attend our twins club meeting last night, on preterm labor and what to expect if your babes need to be in NICU. Glad I went, but I sure was exhausted when I got home! The local club is organizing help for me and picked me up and brought me home. They are fantastic!
I know what you mean about not being able to get online, these boards have become my main source of contact with the outside world, and noone understands better than someone whose been there or IS there now! I'm spoiled now, a friend loaned me a laptop since I can't sit up straight anymore!:rolleyes:

[brajohn1]

hopeinfaith,
good to hear from you again! i've also had some discharge, but the docs cultured it last week and said it was negative... just some normal discharge from all the hormones in my body. i was also panicked about amniotic fluid, but they say my levels are normal. relief!
don't despair about your cervix measuring 1.5. i know i've read a post from someone on this board who had the same thing happen, and she made it full term. fortunately my cervix has stayed around 3.5, but i do have occasional contractions, which make me nervous. i'm off all medications and my peri says that i'm still okay since there are no other signs of preterm labor. he says some contractions are normal as the cervix expands more rapidly with twins.
twoinoven, i'm so glad you are getting help... you deserve it! how's the heartburn? i had a bad case of it last night, had to get up and take some tums until it passed. it was awful.

i'm getting bigger and beginning to get more uncomfortable. i have trouble getting into a good position to sleep now. everyone says it will only get worse! great! i've gained a whopping 30 pounds already! was pretty thin to begin with, and the weight seems to be going all to my belly. its like i can feel it stretching.... how about the rest of you?
take care!!!!!

[twoinoven]

My heartburn is becoming a distant memory with the addition of one chewable pepcid ac before dinner. Still have indigestion, but not the blazing inferno anymore thank goodness.
I am not feeling stretching yet, I am six feet tall and have lots of room so I don't know if I will feel that so much for awhile yet. Getting harder to get comfortable to sleep though.
that is great that you have gained thirty lbs. it will make for bigger babies! I am trying like crazy, but still nauseous in the morning until about lunchtime so drinking boost high protein for breakfast, sometimes two.

[brajohn1]

next time hubby goes to drugstore i'll have him get me some pepcid AC. i've been eating more fruit lately and i think the acid is making the heartburn worse.
i really, really want to get out of the 20's and into the 30's (weeks, that is). i'll feel so much better when i get there. the babies chances are so much better then.
i was reading a thread on baby stuff and i'm feeling woefully behind and uneducated. i haven't bought any cribs or strollers or any of that stuff yet. i don't even know where to begin - i've never done this before. plus i've just moved to a new state and don't have lots of friends yet, so i'm thinking i won't get a shower. plus, bedrest has made it impossible for me to go shopping and look at stufff.. are you ladies ready for the arrival? i think part of me has not wanted to jinx anything so i've not focused on it. but i guess now i need to start thinking about it all!! yikes!

[HopeNFaith]

Hi there,

Think I've finally joined the heartburn club. I guess I've been lucky on that. I really just had mild heartburn which I could usually cure with a glass of milk, but no more! Now it's a burning inferno. Doc said tums or mylanta...seems to help, just hate taking stuff even though it's supposed to be safe.

Twoinoven, I'm glad you hooked up with the twins club and they are giving you support. I couldn't imagine trying to do this on my own. I've been meaning to call my local chapter too just for additional advice. I know that I won't be attending any meetings though! What did they have to say about preterm labor and the NICU? Anything that surprised you?

Brajohn1, I know what you mean about feeling like you'll jinx things if you start buying stuff. I felt the same way too. A few weeks ago I bought a stroller off of ebay. That was the first thing we bought. I've just ordered a bedding set online too, waiting for that to arrive. And I've been looking for a crib, but no luck yet. The ones I love are just too expensive! Champagne taste and beer budget!

I'm sorry you're so far from family and friends. We had registered at BabiesRUs right before I went on bedrest. Glad we did that early. They have it right online...could you maybe register that way and then your friends and family could send you some of what you need? Would that work?

Anyone look into breastfeeding yet? These are my first babies and that's what I'm really worried about...being able to breastfeed both adequately.

[twoinoven]

Maria,
Some of the stuff on preterm labor I had already read about, like staying hydrated and listening to your body. It was really stressed that even if your doctor insisted things were okay, if you feel like something is not right keep insisting they check more or get monitered at Labor and Delivery. I like that I can just go to L&D if I am nervous. Always better to be safe than sorry. I especially thought of when my cervix had shortened so much in a week and midwives thought everything was fine and I asked to have the ultrasound done just because I felt something was going on. Glad I did.
About the NICU, boy, there is so much to learn about what to expect there! Things I never heard of. I borrowed a book on premature babies from the twins club library so at least I can be a little familier with what may occur should they come early. It helps even to look at the pictures of what a premie looks like so it wouldn't be so shocking if it happens. Alot of things I never knew, like about reflexes and the way they hold their limbs if they are premature.
I love your idea about registering at a store that family and friends that live out of state can see what you need and hopefully ship it to you. I may do that, just incase someone wants to get something I need and not just cute NB clothes!
About the breastfeeding, I think you will do fine, I struggled a bit at first with my son, but usually hospitals have a weekly lactation/breastfeeding support group that saved me! It insured that I continued to use proper latch on technique after I was discharged. It is so hard to remember the brief instructions from the hospital stay once you get home. It was also great practice in baby handlling and getting out of the house those first few times with a new baby.
Brajohn, I hear you about wishing to be into the thirties already! I am in the 25th week now and counting down the days. They are going pretty fast, but with that time change the evenings are absolutely dragging with it getting so dark so early!
We can make it!!!:D

[HopeNFaith]

I ordered a book on breastfeeding twins from Amazon.com. It's published by the La Leche League. Do you guys know much about that group? I don't, but will probably look into it.

I have certainly been listening to my instincts when it comes to calling the doc about stuff. That's how I found out about my cervix shortening in the first place...just had a little discharge that I really thought was no big deal. But they had me come in to check it. Good thing I called!

Right now I'm concerned about this bacterial infection I have. I hear if it spreads it can cause preterm labor. I have a cream that they are treating me with, but I'm not sure it's helping much although today it seems a little better than it had been.

I hear ya too about making it to the 30's! I'm 23 weeks and four days. I've been on bedrest 3 weeks now and it has gone fast so far. Can't go fast enough for me though!

And you're right...we can do this!

[brajohn1]

hi girls!
how is everything going? things here are okay - i'm at 26 weeks now, which is good i suppose! its been six weeks since i had the cerclage put in. this is the first time i'll go two weeks before seeing the doctor, and i'm hoping all is still well. i go in on thursday. i am getting really big now. my belly is huge! i'm hoping that my cervix will hold out under all this pressure of these two babies. i'm on "modified bedrest" meaning i can get up a little bit more than i did (ie -can get something to eat, can sit up a bit more)... so keep your fingers crossed that my next docs visit goes well!!
hopenfaith - how is your infection? did it go away?
twoinoven- how are things with you? still have that 4.5 cervix?

i've really noticed that i'm getting bigger lately. i feel sortof achey down low- trying not to worry as i think it is probably the added weight i'm putting on.. i think my baby boy has changed position again as i don't feel him kicking me up high anymore. (he had changed from vertex to transverse)...
still having occasional contrax, but i think they are getting a bit fewer than before, which is good news.
i'm also beginning to look into cribs, strollers, etc... will probably do some online shopping this week (watch out Visa!)
well i just wanted to check in... hope everyone is well.

[twoinoven]

Brajohn,
I am 26 weeks this coming week. I am feeling that low down pressure too. I think it is an inkling of the discomfort to come? I have been waking up in the middle of the night lately and unable to get back to sleep! AAAARRRRGGGHHH! It is so annoying.
I too feel like I am getting huge, caught a glimpse of myself getting out of the shower yesterday, I am carrying these babies sooo high up, like I did my son, it looks like I can set a coffee mug just under my ribs and it would stay!
I find out this Tuesday if cervix is still that thick, I have had to do some feeding of animals twice a day outside, just too difficult to get someone to come twice a day, and it is proving too much for my son in the mornings alone, as the chickens water is usually frozen now. I am hoping it hasn't had an effect on the length. It usually doesn't take more than ten minutes twice a day, and I have cut down on showers to try to compensate, to every other day since its cold and I'm not really getting dirty!
Hopenfaith, is the la leche book called mothering multiples? Let us know how it is, I was thinking of getting it.

[mytwingirls]

Hello all!

I've been reading your posts for about 1 week now and decided to introduce myself.
My name is Melisa and I am 24w3d pregnant with twin girls. When I was 21 week I found out that my cervix is only 1cm long and funneling!!! Two days before that I had some weird feeling, almost like one of my babies was kicking inside my cervix...like something is going to come out! I called my OB, he checked me out and said that I was not dialated, but he'll have to send me to the peri unit for a cervical length u/s. Thank God he did! They immediately admitted me to the hospital and performed emergency cerclage the next morning. That was October 15th. I spent 6 days at the hospital. I've been on the "home" bed rest. I can get up to shower, get something out of the fridge and that's about it. Just like most of you here, I have to be off my feet as much as possible.
So, it's been 21 days already...YEY!!! I have good and bad days. Most of them are good :) I have my laptop with me in bed and wireless internet connection, which is really nice.

That' all about me for now. It's nice to meet you all!

Melisa

[HopeNFaith]

Hi ladies!

Glad everyone seems to be doing well!

Hi Melisa! Welcome! Seems like you and I are pretty close in our circumstances. I had my cerclage on Oct 10 and am now 24 weeks. I was measuring 1.5 cm. Are you still funneling?

I just started reading that book (yes, it's Mothering Multiples). The beginning is really just a lot of information that I already knew about...general stuff on nutrition, preterm labor, etc. The book I have by Dr. Luke goes into much better detail about that stuff. Do you guys have that one? It's a wonderful book! But I bought the Mothering Multiples book mainly for info about breastfeeding and I'm just getting to that part, so I'll have to let you know if it's useful.

Brajohn, glad you are able to get up a bit more now. That must be nice! And Twoinoven, please take it easy feeding those animals! Is there a neighborhood kid that can come do it? Maybe you could post something at the local high school saying you're looking for a helper to do that? I know they do that here to find local kids to babysit and do odd jobs.

I still have that infection...at least I think I do. I used up all the medicine they gave me, but it doesn't seem to have cleared up. I have an appointment tomorrow. They gotta do something to get rid of this. It's driving me crazy!

My boys are kicking much harder lately. Every once in a while it's so hard it makes me jump! Anyone else notice a change? It's pretty neat as long as they aren't kicking me in the bladder!

[mytwingirls]

Maria,

I am still funneling. They put two stiches in and I am funneling up to the upper stich! My peri thinks that is ok, as long as the cerclage holds and I stay off my feet. My cervix still measures 1cm w/o the cerclage and almost 3 with the cerclage. So far so good!
I was so scared when we found out. I never thought it would happen to me. I always thought, as long as 12(or 16 for twins) weeks are over, you are safe for the rest of pregnancy. How little I knew! Now, I am finding out about all kinds of things that could go wrong...it's not a pretty picture. But, I am so thankful we caught it on time. My first goal was 24 weeks and here I am. My second goal is 28 weeks. Can't wait to get there!!!
I also have Dr Luke's book and love it. There is so many useful info about everything you want to know about multiples. I also have Baby Bargains book. Friend of mine gave it to me that week I went on the bed rest and I love it. It compares everything you need for a baby:cribs, strollers, diapers, clothing, formula....EVERYTHING!!They have companies info as weel as parents reviews. I would highly recomment it.
I am sorry about that infection you have. I also have an infection, but they gave me some antibiotics and it went away. Have you taken anything?

I feel my girls kicking more too. Sometimes, I can see my shirt moving. It's the best feeling ever!!! But also, it depends on a day. Some days they are more active than the others. So funny :)

Did you all sign up for prenatal classes? Are you going to do it? I am still thinking about it. I called the center and they said that they have a lot of moms who are on the bed rest. They get a wheel chair up to the room and a reclining chair for the class. What do you think?


Melisa

[twoinoven]

Welcome Melisa,
Do you mean like Lamaze classes? I haven't checked into that yet because my husband and I are separated. I can probably have a girlfriend come with me since shes going to try to come to the birth.
I go for cervix measurement tomorrow, if my feeding the animals has shortened it at all, I will stop doing it. I may try putting a notice up like Hopenfaith suggested. (thanks!)
Don't know about the rest of the world, but here in Colorado it is great weather to be on bedrest, rainy/snowy, cold and dreary! I just look at it out the window all day. I am staying down all daybetween animal chores so hopefully that is making up for my 'cheating' a little.
I will be checking in!

[brajohn1]

welcome melisa! i'm glad you decided to join us. it is so helpful to talk to other women who have had a cerclage and who are carrying twins (not always easy to find).
we all have a similar story. at my 19wk visit they found my cervix funneling and meauring around 2cm. they put me on bedrest, meds and sent me home for a few days to see if it would get better. it didn't. a few days later i was at 1.6cm so they did the cerclage right away. (i was 20 weeks). now i'm at 26 wks 1day! my first big goal was 24 weeks too, my next one is 28 weeks. i'll really feel good when i hit the 30s!
i go back thursday for another u/s and cervical measurement (also the glucose test - have any of you had this yet?). i am praying that my cervix is still holding out. i've not had any funneling and my measurement has been around 3.5 since the cerclage. keep your fingers crossed.
every now and then i get this quick flash of pain way down low (feels like it is in my vagina). i don't get it very often but of course it freaks me out. what if the babies are wacking my cervix?
just before i went in for the cerclage we did an u/s and my baby girl's foot was going right into the funnel. i wonder if that had anything to do with it???
one question for everyone - do any of you know why you have an incompetent cervix? my doc asked me if i'vd had an abortion, or an IUD or any surgeries, etc... and I haven't. he said he thinks i was just born with a small cervix. any input from you ladies?? all the women in my family have had very healthy,uncomplicated pregnancies.. i guess i'll never really know why this happened.

any of you having braxton hicks? i am... sometimes they come when the babies are kicking...
one day last week the babies were absolutely clobbering me! they seemed to have calmed down lately (of course i worry about this too).... i still feel them, but i think they've settled into their positions...
okay... better stop here. i could go on and on....
brandy

oka

[brajohn1]

forgot to mention..
i've gone to two childbirth classes .. they are at my hospital (university of washington) and are for twins only. they've showed us videos of moms giving birth to twins, brought in a couple with 9 month old twins to share their experiences, talked about c-section vs. vaginal, a little bit on breathing, etc...
i enjoy going. the doc said i could go. i take a pillow with me and hubby gets me a chair for my feet. there are about 10-12 other couples, all with twins. of course i'm the only one on bedrest. i shared my story with the others and the nurse said "this is extremely rare" and i felt like a freak, but other than that they have been good classes. they meet every two weeks. i have one thursday night on breastfeeding. it is the only time i get out of the house (besides docs visits).

ask your doc if you can go. if nothing else, it is nice to meet other folks who are having twins.

[mytwingirls]

Twoinoven...I am so sorry about you and your husband. You are such a strong woman...I couldn't even imagine. I live in St Louis and we have not had a nicer fall in a long time. It's almost 80 outside...sunny...just beautiful!!! It makes it even more harder to stay in bed. I agree with you with being in bed and having a bad weather outside. I must be the only person in STL who can't wait for some rain. Be careful with those animals. Good luck with your appointment tomorrow!!!

Brandy...I don't know why I have IC. Could be genetic, because my mom had it with my younger sister. They said, it could be that my cervix is always that short. Who knows?! Thank God we caught it on time. I couldn;t even imagine what would have happend. It took us almost 5 years to conceive...2 IUI's and 2 IVF's. But, it's all good now.
Is your cevix 3.5 with or w/o the cerclage? It awesome that you are not funneling. How often do you get up...do you ever sit with your feet up or are you always horizontal?

As far as classes....yes, I meant lamaze, multiples and breast feeding classes. I have my first this Thursday night (multiples class). It's 3x3 hours class. I am just to affraid to leave the house, except to go to the doctors office. Even then, I get the wheel chair. I have an appointment this Friday...cervical and babies measurements. I can't wait!!! Hope that everything is OK. The last time (at 21w u/s) they told us that one baby was a little smaller than the other, but still growing as she should. One was 1lb1oz and the other one 13oz. We will see how they look like now. There is always something to worry about, isn't it???

[brajohn1]

hi melisa,
my cervix has been 3.5 since i got the cerclage (hopefully it is still there- i'll know thursday). when i got the cerclage it was at 1.6 and funneling... scary, especially considering i am carrying twins. i was in the hospital for 5 days and it was a traumatic experience to say the least. i had contractions that they had to get under control before they'd do the cerclage, so i was on mag sulfate (horrible). then they decided they wanted to do an amniocentesis to be sure there was no infection (if there was infection in the fluid they would not be able to do the cerclage). one of the residents came in and told me that "if there is infection, you will lose the pregnancy". i fell apart completely. fortunately there was no infection, and they proceeded with the cerclage. (so i had two invasive procedures in one afternoon). that night i threw up from the anesthesia (very fun).
but on the bright side, things have been better ever since. the contrax calmed down ( i still have a very irritable uterus but doc thinks it is ok) and the cerclage has held nicely so far.

the first four weeks after the cerclage i was horizontal all the time, except to take a shower and grab a quick sandwich from the fridge (oh, and to go potty).
my doc said i could get up a bit more because i was off all meds, had no infections, and my cervix hadn't budged in a month (since the cerclage). so for the past two weeks i've been up a little more. i blow dry my hair, and make light meals (very light), eat at the table, but nothing heavy at all. i did get to go and get my haircut, which was a real treat! but that's the only time i've been out besides doctors visits and my childbirth class. I try to only go up the stairs once a day, and stay down as much as possible.
i can really see that my legs have suffered from the lack of activity. they are like jello. i was not really an athlete before, but i was reasonably active. when i went to the docs a month after the cerclage, my pulse was 150 just from walking from the car to the doctors office! so i think that is another reason why he wants me up a little bit, so i'll have strength to deliver the babies and to recover....
well i'm rambling on again...
good to chat with you!!!!
brandy

[mytwingirls]

I have heard horrible stories about mag sulfate. But, the most important thing is that is helps. After my cerclage, I was on indocin(sp?) pill for about 3 days only. My uterus was a little irritable from the procedure and then it went away. I also, just like you, was told that if there is some kind of infection, that they couldn't save the pregnancy. That was horrible. I was so scared. But, they never performed the amnio. They checked my blood count, took few vaginal cultures and said that everything was fine. I did have a small infection in vaginal area, but peri said it's nothing unusual and treated me with some antiobiotics for about 8-9 days.
I have scheduled multiple and lamaze classes. Lamaze go all the way until February 5th. Don't know if I should cancel that one and stick with the multiple class only. What do you guys think? Multiples are 3x3 hours and Lamaze is 6x3 hours. Should I call my OB and ask?

Today is another day and we are still here. That is so wonderful. What is everyone having for lunch today? I am thinking about chinese!!! LOVE that stuff!!!

Talk to you later,

[HopeNFaith]

Hi everyone!

I never even considered being able to go to a lamaze class once I got put on bedrest. I figured it would be out of the question, but I guess I'll ask my doc since some of you got the okay. Somehow, I think they'll tell me no though. They've been pretty adamant about me staying put.

I asked about what causes an incompetent cervix too. Doc had no real answer for me, just that some women have shorter or weaker cervix. I've never had an abortion and the only surgery I had was two D&C's. Don't know...I have no sisters and my mom's not around anymore so I don't know about family history.

I go for another doctor's appointment today. I always get a little nervous right before hoping they don't find something else wrong. But boy, it's a good feeling when it's over and everything seems to be ok!

So glad everyone is hanging in there!

[mytwingirls]

Maria,

I was the same way about the classes. I even called to cancel the multiples class last week and the nurse at the center told me that they have a lot of moms who are on the bed rest (since it is a multiples class) and they do fine. They get a wheelchair up to the class and a reclining chair upstairs. Call your OB or peri and ask what they say.
I just called mine and now I'm waiting for them to call me back with the answer. I'll let you know.

I feel the same way about going to doctor's appointments. I get so nervous, that I have to go the bathroom 2-3 times before. But, the best feeling is when they say "no changes...everything looks stable"!!!

Good luck at your appointment today! Let us know. Your and mine situations are very simmilar and we are due very close too.

[twoinoven]

Hi ladies!
I am soooo happpy! The cervical ultrasound showed it measured 4.7 cm! and no funneling, not dynamic, smooth and stable. Even with my cheating by feeding the animals twice a day! I am not going to push it though, just the 5-10 minutes twice a day that it takes, the rest of the time I am horizontal!
Hope everyone is hanging in there. Oh, I get meals on wheels so I get whatever they send for lunch, today it was cottage cheese, zucchini, chicken and dumplings a roll, and cake with orange frosting (which my son ate all the frosting!). Pretty good considering it is hospital food.

[mytwingirls]

Twoinoven..that is THE best news!!! Congratulations sweets! That is one looooooooooong cervix and no funneling!!! You can't ask for more. I am so happy for you!!! Your lunch sounds yummy!!! Anything people bring these days is wonderful.


I asked my OB about the classes and they want me to postpone them for a few weeks. Since I am still only a little over 24, it's better to wait until at least 28 and then schedule. Which sounds like a good idea to me.

'til later :)

[brajohn1]

hi ladies,

twoinoven - my gosh! 4.7 is unbelievable!!! you now have a cervix of steel! hooray for the cerclage!
my appointment is thursday.. i'm hoping for good news too,especially since i've been up a bit more..
i have not signed up for lamaze classes and don't know if i will. i'm enjoying my twins class. thursday night is the breastfeeding class, so i'm looking forward to that. btw, i usually roll into the class in a wheelchair, then prop up with a pillow and an extra chair for my feet. do you think i need to take lamaze also?
i couldn't sleep last night... between the heartburn and the huge belly, it is so hard to get comfortable. and i know it is only going to get worse .. but i'll do anyting to keep my babies inside me and healthy ..
mytwingirls -that is probably a good idea to wait til you are a little further along. apparently we are in the "critical weeks" right now. after 28 the babies chances of survival go way, way up. we don't want them to pop out before then.
well lets keep in touch ladies... its nice to talk to others who are going through the same thing.

[brajohn1]

i forgot to ask... i feel my babies kicking really low... are any of you carrying low? do you think this is okay (esp. considering our cerclage situation)..
i'm trying not to worry about every little thing, but i wonder if this is okay. i can feel them both wacking me pretty far down.

[HopeNFaith]

twoinoven, how great! I'm really glad for you...that's gotta be a big relief.

I had my appointment today and I'm funneling right up to the stitch. Not what I had hoped for, but it's still holding.

Brajohn, yes, I feel one of the babies way down low. One is right there close to my cervix which does worry me some. The other baby is up top.

Mytwingirls, my doctor said the same thing today...don't worry about the classes until at least 28 weeks and then we'll see. Guess that makes sense. Can't wait to get to that point though!

[twoinoven]

That cracked me up. Let's hope it stays that way!
Brajohn, I am feeling them kicking way low too. On the US I could see Gabriel's head way down there, he must box too. Shiloh is now breech, so I think it is her that's doing all the movement down there, although at last baby US, her legs were in a pike position, but she looks like a little gymnast in there, always moving. But the bulk of them is carrying way high, just like my son was, my upper belly sticks out farther than lower, looks funny.
I see the doc this morning, yesterday was no doc, just US. I am going to ask him/her (there are husband/wife with same name, don't know who I'm seeing) about the birth classes.
Let's all hope at least these cerclages are "of steel" so we keep these precious gifts in there until the appointed hour! I am also going to ask what the plan is for removal, what week etc. I figure I will make that my next goal after 28 weeks. Amazingly enough, the weeks seem to be going by fast, I think it's because of all the support here!;)

[mytwingirls]

I just wrote a long message and the site kicked me out :(
Anyway...

Maria...sorry about your funneling! I am the same way. Last time we checked it was funneling all the way down to the upper stitch. My peri said, that funneling could move up and down all the time. That's why we have cerclages, to keep the cervix closed. As long as we don't have contractions, it will be ok. I hope so!!!

I am carrying very low too. Before the surgery, both of my girls were VERY low and breech. So, they were kicking inside my cervix all the time. WOnder, if that has anything to do with the whole ordeal?! Since then, one of them has moved a little bit up and I can feel her kicking on the side, just a little above my belly button. The other one is still very low.

Has any of you bought a body pillow? I bought one after I got home from the hospital. It's the best thing. Here is the link to it...if someone is interested.

http://www.babyage.com/product_details.asp?productId=7449

It's another day ladies....SMILE :):):)

[HopeNFaith]

Twoinoven, we were seriously thinking about the name Gabriel too! But we are using it as a middle name instead of a first. I like Shiloh too. That's really neat. We had girls names all picked out, but ended up with two boys! It seemed harder to come up with boys names that we really liked. But we settled on Michael and Cole. (Michael is my husband's name).

I was a little down yesterday. I had hoped my cervix would have closed up some since that seems to happen for some of you guys. But I have a feeling this is how it's going to be for me. As you said, let's hope those stitches are made of steel!

Yes, the days do seem to go quickly which is wonderful! I have a little routine which I think helps. Usually by the weekends I'm totally bored again, but my hubby spends time with me then. We sit and talk or try to play a game of cards or something.

Twoinoven, do you have people that come check on you and visit?
I hope so! Thank God for phones and computers!

[Cheri]

Hi!


I'm 21 weeks now and was on bedrest from weeks 7 through about 14, then modified and now back to strict bedrest. At my appt. on Monday I had funneling. My cervical length is good and suture holding. I've been having contractions for a longtime now, but they were just considered BH, since they weren't causing any cervical changes. I've noticed they've picked up a bit more now, so I'm taking terbutaline, but it could also be that I'm just more worried and noticing more because of the funneling. It's been good to hear that some of you have had fluctuations with the funneling and it doesn't always worsen. I don't think I'll feel confident until I get into week 30.

I also feel kicking really low, but had the same thing with my first child who is now 20 months old and very healthy (I also had a cerclage, pre-term labor, on magnesium, etc... with him).

Twoinoven- you get meals on wheels? I never thought about that-what a good idea! I'm always worried about being up too long prepping meals. How does it work?

[twoinoven]

Cheri,
Out here Meals on Wheels are 3.50 each, but they drop it to 2.00 if you are poor, like me, and also, my church is supplying them for me since I am alone. They do lunch Monday thru Friday, it comes by volunteer drivers between 11:30 and 12:00. One meal is plenty for my son and I to share. Here they are bought from the hospital, but they are pretty good.
I went to the doc today and confessed about the animal chores, got a big lecture, my friend Suzy is going to try to come every evening so I only do them once a day (in the morning). Doctor said the next 4 weeks are critical, then we'll be at week 30 (hooray!). His plan is to remove the cerclage at 36 weeks unless I go into labor before then.
Also, my asthma is flaring up pretty bad so I have to take an inhaled steroid now twice a day and use a peak flow meter to measure my capacity. I was having to use my rescue inhaler six times a day lately.
Anyone else dealing with asthma?

[brajohn1]

so good to hear from all of you. i'm getting nervous about my docs visit tomorrow. it has been two weeks since i've gone in... (first time i've gone that long since the cerclage). btw, they put in my cerclage 6 weeks ago today! keep holding!
cheri - i've had contrax since i got the cerclage. for two weeks after i was on terbutiline (yuck), but since my cervix hadn't moved and since i had no other signs of preterm labor, the doc took me off. i've been off for four weeks. how often do you have them? i find mine are light during the day, but increase in frequency at night.
i did get a body pillow. it is great. i use it every night. i'm finding turning over more difficult as i get bigger. i'll be 27 weeks this weekend. please get here soon! i will feel alot better (like many of you) when i hit 30 weeks.
okay, i have a personal question. a little embarrassing, but i'm gong to throw it out there....
what have your docs told you about sex and orgasm (with the cerclage)? my first doctor told me no sex and no orgasm. my second doc hasn't said much, but i haven't asked either. my hubby and i are not taking chances, but i have to say that it is starting to get to me!!!!
keep in touch ladies!

[twoinoven]

Brajohn,
When I began bedrest before the cerclage, they said no sex no orgasm, but my husband and I are separated so that is a no brainer. Maybe they know that by now and so don't mention it, but I am assuming continued pelvic rest. Ask your doc. I know when I was on pelvic rest once earlier on, they said nothing in the vagina, but orgasm was okay. I will confess that I have a shower massage I am fond of, but the last time I tried was months ago and with the increased size of uterus, it was impossible to come close to the big "O".
I hear you about it getting to you though, if things were okay with my husband and he were here, it would be driving me crazy too! The things we do for our kids huh?:o

[mytwingirls]

How is everyone doing?
As I can tell from yesterday's posts, no big changes which is always good.
Cheri...I am also funneling up to the upper stitch. I don't think it will ever change. It would be awesome if it does. We'll see.

As far as sex, they never told us anything (yes or no) but I figured it's a big NO-NO with a cerclage. Our cervix is so sensitive now, plus the chance of infection. I don't think I could relax anyway having this cerclage in. We will just have to wait :(

When you have your weekly exams, does your OB measures your belly? How far along do you measure? My last appointment, I was a little short of 24 weeks and I measured 28. I hear that some woman measure like 2 months ahead! What about you?


Melisa

[Cheri]

this is just a test

[Cheri]

Good morning!

I just finished writing a long post and when I submitted-it said I wasn't logged in, when I was, so I lost it all. This has happened before and is soooooo frustrating!

Anyway- good news this morning is that my mom is coming down to help us until possibly the duration of my pregnancy while I'm on bedrest. Thank god for mothers! She's really bailing us out because it's been difficult to coordinate the schedule of our 20 month-old and my DH is trying to finish grad school this month on top of it all. He's under huge pressure and working long hours, but can't quit because someone in the family needs to work here soon! She'll help get our son ready in the mornings until our nanny arrives (Mon & Tues 9AM) or until he goes to the sitters (Wed-Fri 9AM). She can also help with cooking, etc...I so appreciate her!

Brajohn1- I have contractions all the time-meaning at least 3-4 every hour and sometimes more if I'm active or have a full bladder. I only take my terb when I have a string of them that won't quit. I had the same thing with my first preg. starting at 22 weeks-ultimately the terb. stopped working and I was on Magnesium Sulfate for 7 weeks in the hospital. I'm hoping to avoid this, but I know it works, so if it becomes necessary then I guess I'd do it again.
About sex and the big "O" ---definitely out for us unfortunately. With a cerclage no sex allowed and even stimulation is too risky given all the problems already. I see a long romantic vacation in the not to distant future.

Mytwingirls-
I know I'm definitely measuring ahead of a singleton, but by how much I'm not certain. I didn't ask-just know that all my uterine and baby measurements are on target.

Hope everyone is having a good day!

[brajohn1]

hi gals,
just got back from the doctors office and i'm so relieved because my cervix is still hanging in there - no funneling! i feel really good about this because i've been a little worried lately. i've been feeling all kinds of things down low (fluttering, sharp, quick pains)... but the doc said as long as my cervix hasn't changed, it is just the result of my expanding uterus and the extra pressure from my weight gain (i've gained 35 pounds - yikes!). he said they'll leave the cerclage in as long they can. as long as i don't show signs of labor and the cerclage is still intact, they won't take it out til 36-37 weeks. don't know that i'll get that far...
to answer your question melisa... the measured my belly today and i'm measuring at 33 weeks (i'm actuallly 26w4d) . so he said i'm experiencing all hte things a woman with a singleton experiences at 33 weeks... (heartburn, discomfort, weird pains, etc...) i got a prescription for heartburn. last night i was burning so badly i though i was going to die.... i'm really feeling big these days!
those who are still funneling - don't despair! my peri said that it is quite common for women to funnel back to the stitch... just stay down to keep off the pressure and think positive! you can make it!
as for sex, i think hubby and i are just too paranoid to do anything. this is the longest we've ever gone, but i just keep reminding him that it will be great once we get to do it again!! (actually i am going just as crazy as he is! ha)
cheri - so glad you are getting some help. mothers can be great. my mom came out for just a week, but she helped a lot while she was here. i was on terb for a while (it was awful!) but fortunately i'm off now. i still have contrax - i wrote downt the times i had them yesterday - basically one per hour and then i had three per hour once. the doc says its okay though since everything else looks good (ie- my cervix isn't moving). i guess they are braxton hicks. other days i have less and every now and then i'll have more.... but generally i'd say i have anywhere from five to thirteen in a day. almost always i have to go pee when i have one.. don't know if that is causing them or not. i'm trying not to worry so much about them as i did before...
i found out today that Baby B (my boy) has moved again! he is now breech! he was head down, then changed to transverse and now he is breech. Baby A has stayed head down the whole time. maybe all that activity i was feeling down low was coming from my boy kicking me with his little feet!
okay i've rambled on enough. hang in there eveyrone. we can make it!

[mytwingirls]

Cheri...the same thing happened to me few times now. What I do now, I always copy my post just in case I lose it, I can just paste the next time. Your mom is coming! That is going to be so wonderful. I couldn't even imagine having a little child with me being on the bed rest. How do you do it???

Brajohn...no funneling is an awesome news. Congratulations!!! I am glad that your appointment went well.

It's so funny how low our babies can kick. Sometimes I have a feeling that, they are dancing inside my cervix :):) I just get those funky sensations and sometimes it feels like it's in between my cervix and sorry to say this, but my rectal area. It feels like kicking somewhere in the middle. Please tell me I am not the only one feeling like that???

[twoinoven]

Hi everyone!
Finally reading posts, usually I am online several times a day, but today I was just wiped out and lazy. And my son was in need of some intense one on one mommy play, so we did.
I remembered something else about sex during pg too, since we're still on the subject (funny when we can't it's on our minds huh?) it's that semen has 'prostaglandins' in it which can actually stimulate contractions and bring on labor, so I think it's a no-no.
My doc said the plan is to leave the cerclage in til 36 weeks as long as I don't go into labor sooner. Only ten more weeks (groan...) I am measuring 32cm, does it mean 32 weeks in a singleton pg? I forget.
I did confess about the chores and got a big lecture. I now have a friend coming evenings so I am cutting it in half. I also have to get a peak flow meter to measure my air capacity from the asthma and started inhaled steroids again, I was having to use my 'rescue inhaler' six times a day (too much). The steroid is helping already.
I am finally able to see the kicks from the outside, it's funny to rest something on my tummy and watch it jump around!
Gotta go, we're gonna watch Bambi. (better get the tissues!):rolleyes:

[HopeNFaith]

Hi everyone,

Hope everybody is still doing well.

I was told a while ago that sex is a big NO! For all the reasons that you guys have already said.

Last night I had some serious contractions happening. Was scary cause I really haven't had any for a while now. But they were very irregular and stopped after about two hours. So I'm pretty sure they were BH. Just hope I know the real ones when I feel them.

Melisa, I don't feel the kicks in my rectal area, but I sure do feel it when they kick me in the bladder!

I've been starting to see them kick from the outside too. Was reading the newspaper and it was resting on my belly and all of a sudden it moved! Pretty cool.

Brajohn, sorry about that heartburn. I know it sucks. I've had it bad some nights and then not at all on others. So far a little mylanta has done the trick.

I've also noticed that the weather seems to really effect my mood more than lately. Today is the first sunny day after several rainy ones and I feel so much better in general. Anyone else notice that?

[mytwingirls]

Hi everyone,

I just came back from the peri's office and everything looks good. The cerclage is holding up, which is the most important thing right now. My cervix measures 3cm total!!! I was funneling just a little he said, which is almost normal. He said if things stay like they are now, I could go far, far...He was talking about end 30 weeks and I'm thinking " OK, let me get to 28 first" :)
They also checked the babies and one of them is still smaller, but growing as she should be. One of them turned since the last time and one is still breech. One weighs 1lb 12oz and the other 1lb 6oz. Both of them gained 10-11 oz in three weeks:)
Lot's of details...I know...sorry. I am just so happy that everything is ok.

I've also been starting to see them kicking from the outside too. I talked to someone the other day and left my cell phone on my belly. Someone kicked it and it moved. It was so funny. It seemed like she was telling me "would you please move this...it's in my way" :)


Wish you all a wonderful day!

[twoinoven]

Melisa,
Yay! Great news for you! Doesn't that feel good?
Maria- You are right on about the weather, we had 6 gloomy rainy dreary days in a row last week and the sun finally came out two days ago and wow! What a difference in mood. Helped that it was warmer outside too.
I keep trying to get my son to have his hands on my tummy when they kick but so far we can't get it coordinated. Has anyone's had the hiccups yet? Mine haven't but I figure, when they do we can finally get my son's hands there in time to feel it! He is getting really excited about being a big brother. This week on Sesame Street they had a two parter about mama bear having a baby and baby bear getting to be a big brother. They had the whole trip to the hospital and everything, it was great!

[Cheri]

Melisa-

Congratulations! It's always nice to hear good news and it must feel great, too. Keep going :)

My mom arrived last night and is already a huge help, so I feel like I can rest easier now. Just need to keep baking these babies and stay off my feet.

Hope everyone is having a good day-it's cloudy and cool here, but I don't mind right now.

[foxfire]

Hey there... I am going to post a new thread on an update but I just figured being we are so close in due dates and the new things coming up in my pregnancy it might be great to talk sometime, do you have any instant messengers? I am desireforfire917 on aol and suspndedreality on yahoo..... or you can email me at tysmommy@cox.net. I actually spent the day in the hospital the other day for contractions... which I'm about to write about, but am now also on a lot of restrictions so I figured if you ever wanted someone to talk to I'd be around ;) And with our due dates so close it will be neat to see who has them first and our stories and all that. Anyway if you get this alright (I know its kinda far back) you can reply at the new thread that I am about to write.... hope all is well with you!

[twoinoven]

Foxfire, Amazing how quickly things can change when you are pregnant with twins huh? One minute you're going along fine (and in your case thinking you're having one baby) then you get a shocker, it's two! So you adjust to that, and now, whamo! You realize that having two in there is a whole different ball game. I got it at about the same time as you, maybe a tad sooner, when I went in for shortened cervix at 22 weeks.

Now I gotta vent a little. I know God won't give me more than I can handle. I have accepted the fact that almost all the ladies here are spending quality time with hubbies on the weekend, I'm only a little jealous. Now, not only does my husband not want to talk on the phone, and is not responding to emails, but he hasn't paid the mortgage for November and won't answer phone or email about it. I left him a message Friday and no response yet. He was supposed to have an appt. with our marriage counselor (who then talks to me on the phone) on Monday and I left two messages for the counselor this past week, never heard from either one, sooo, I don't know what's up. I am thinking of calling his sister who lives 8 miles away from him.(husband, not counselor)
I do have people who are stopping by to check in, yesterday my girlfriend and I attended my birthing refresher class. I was the only one there without a husband. Then we had a nice chinese lunch on the way home. While I was out, a couple from my church came over to my house and rearranged my living room for me! It was great, because th eonly heat register was under the bed and not doing much, so now it is much better.
So what am I whining about? I don't really know, I guess I am just lonely this weekend, son is at his dad's. And I think it is sinking in that my husband is confirming my worst fears? I don't know where to take it if he won't communicate at all and won't help financially.
But hey! These babies are growing and kicking and I love them, so things are great, really!:D

[mytwingirls]

Twoinoven...I am so sorry you feel that way. I couldn't even imagine how you feel with everyone here talking about husbands and stuff. I am so sorry for your situation!!! Things sometimes happen in our life, not the way we would like them to happen. My husband and I have been thru a lot together. Our lives started to normalize a when we came to USA. We are originally from Bosnia and escaped from the civil war, when he was 21 and I was only 18 years old. We were still dating back then and were madly in love. We didn't agree with what the war was about and decided to leave. I stil don't know how my mom and dad left me?! We have been on our own ever since. We lived in Germany for 5 years before we came here and that was the most dificult time of my life. Because of the war, we couldn't call our families to find out what's going on. We went thru it all...no family and friends, no money, we ended up at the hospital at the same time (dh cut the tendens on one of his legs and when i came to visit him, I passed out...something was with my heart and I had to have a surgery to get it fixed...awful)...and we had no one to come and visit us. But, all of that is over now. Now we live in this wonderful place. Still not much family. My mom and sister live here too and that's all.
Time goes on...good or bad. What I've learned on the past 12 years is that a person needs to make the best out of bad situation. Life is not fair and it's not always the way we would like it to be. You have wonderful son, friends who come to see you and help you out, your church...and soon, you'll have two wonderful new lives to take care of.
It WILL be better soon.

[brajohn1]

hey everyone,
i'm bored! laying around all the time is making me crazy, though i have been able to get up a bit more than before... i'm at 27 weeks now! only three more weeks and i'm in the thirties!!


twoinoven -hang in there . you can and will get through this... just as mytwingirl's story shows, you can make through really difficult circumstances. just don't give up hope. since we are sharing stories, i'll let you guys in on something i haven't talked about... my husband's 16 year old son had cancer last spring and ended up having his left ankle/foot amputated. it was horrible. we didn't know if he was even going to live- he had a very rare form of cancer and they really never identified exactly what it was. but he is now much better, walking on a prosthetic and going on with life. while he was still recuperating, i found out i was pregnant, and then a little later had to go into the hospital with contractions and incompetent cervix (which we all know about)... things did not look good for my pregnancy for a few days .... but we are still here!!! my poor hubby has had the year from ****.... but all we can do is carry on and have faith that things will get better... and in my experience things DO get better. you will get through this twoinoven. take it day by day and celebrate small victories!!!
hang in there ladies!

[twoinoven]

Melisa and Brajohn,
You are both so right, I guess I was just blue and needed to have a little pity party. I did call my husband's sister, and a few hours later got an email from husband that he mailed off the mortgage payment recently. I don't know what to make of him, he ignored my calls and emails for over two weeks and then writes after his sister calls him. And he writes that he misses me and my son. Two sentences.
Both of you have made me realize that 'this too shall pass', and things could be worse. I DO have great friends and a church family, and other than the 'normal' complications of this twin pregnancy, my health is good. Thanks for the reminders!
Melisa, you should write a book, your life sounds like a movie, how romantic! And scary, and brave! Brajohn, I am glad your stepson is well now, I pray it never comes back. He must be an incredibly strong young man.
It really doesn't bother me too much hearing about how wonderful other's husbands are, it makes me still have faith that their are still good men out there. And I wouldn't wish my situation on other pregnant ladies.
Besides, like you said Brajohn, this week will make 27 and then only three more til the thirties!!!!!! Yay!!! Let's have a party!:D

[HopeNFaith]

Twoinoven, I felt so bad after I read your other post. But as the other ladies said already soon you will have two beautiful new babies and this difficult time will be over.

I went through a difficult divorce about six years ago and that's hard enough without being pregnant so I can't imagine how hard it is for you right now. I have a wonderful new husband (well, married two years) and I've never been so happy in my life. So things can and do change over time.

And hey, we all need to vent about certain things sometimes. So you can have a pity party anytime you want as far as I'm concerned! We have to stick together!

Brajohn, I'm glad your stepson is doing better now. My mom had cancer so I know how hard that is. I think somehow it's worse though when it's someone who is so young.

Hang in there ladies. I am thinking and praying for you!

[Cheri]

Boy did I miss a lot the last few days, all these stories are incredible! I took the weekend off from the computer as I was a bit busier with my son (my husband worked and I tried to help my mom out so that she doesn't become exhausted).

Status quo with me for now, which is good I suppose. I'm starting my second baby blanket (pretty good for someone who really doesn't crochet, but with my mom's help I look like a pro-sort of).
I'm 22 weeks today and feel lots of movement :)

Twoinoven- I'm sorry about your circumstances, it must be very difficult for you. I hope you find comfort through your faith, close friends and those of us on this thread! Anytime you want to vent, go ahead-better to get it out. Most people have no idea what it's like to live on bedrest for months on end-it can be very isolating.

Brajohn-I'm sorry about your stepson, too! So young, what a challenge that must have been.
What are you doing to overcome your boredom? Glad you're almost in your 30's, but hopefully you'll go a lot further than that.
When I was in the hospital with my last pregnancy my Dr. told me to get a calendar and start crossing off the days and you know what? It really helped! I had 2 months of "X's" on that thing and each week we celebrated with a little party (cake, sparkling cider, flowers, etc...) Sounds corny, but it was so refreshing and felt good to pass another milestone. We'll probably start having them again, soon.

Best wishes to all!

[twoinoven]

I finally got a two sentence email from my husband that he sent off the mortgage payment. So that's a relief for a couple weeks, until December is due!
Cheri, I am going to try the x's, I already have a calendar hanging above the bed with a giant week count, tomorrow will be 27 weeks! Crossing off each day will help the time go by.
Go for a cervical measurement ultrasound at 11 tomorrow. Will check in after!
I slept most of the day today, son and I both have colds.
Cheri, I am learning to crochet too, I am making a scarf for my son before I tackle a blanket! But a friend of mine is making one for her girl, due 12-31. It has hearts on it, very nice.
HopeNFaith, your screen name says it all, I do have faith in God, and hope for the best outcome! Thanks for the encouragement every time I see your name!

[twoinoven]

Well ladies, here I am. I just learned at today's ultrasound that I am down to 3cm and funneling almost up to the stitch. Guess I am not immune after all. I know I have been doing too much. I felt it last night after son didn't like what we had for dinner so I got up and made him something different. Felt a little crampy and uncomfortable after being up for a bit. I am going to talk to the neighbors about maybe having their kids come in the morning to feed the pony and let the chickens out since they have to let theirs out in the morning anyway. Here I thought I could still be Superwoman! It has really scared me, I have been in bed since I got home. Changed all my plans, I was going to go to WallyMart tomorrow and ride the scooter around to get a few things (like huge pj's and sweatpants) but I guess I'd better delegate that.
Gonna get offline now, I'm sure the midwives will call with a lecture after they get the faxed report...:(

[mytwingirls]

Twoinoven,

3cm sounds very good to me. Mine is usually only 1 (without the cerclage) and 3cm with the cerclage. And, I am funneling most of the time too. I keep telling myself, as long as those stitches are holding, I am going to be ok. Don't worry too much! How far along are your now? Sorry, I forgot:(
I catch myself getting up more and more too and I don't like it. For the first two weeks after the surgery, I didn't do anything at all. Except bathroom and shower breaks. Now, if there is something in the kitchen sink, I clean it up and stuff like that. I still don't cook (and I won't do it), but I am just doing a little more.
Like this coming Saturday, friends of us invited us over to their house. They have a nice reclining chair, so that would not be a problem. First I said yes, without even thinking about it, but now I am questioning myself. I wan't to call and cancel to bad. I am only going to be 26 weeks!!! What should I do?

Stay off your feet as much as you can. I know it's not very easy for you right now, but just try. Can't you ask someone to shop for you at walmart? How about online shopping?
Take care,

[twoinoven]

Melisa,
You're right. I think as more time goes by we just naturally slip in a little bit more activity, after all, I have been on bedrest 5 weeks now! Yikes! And 9 more until they plan to take the cerclage out. I am 27 weeks today and if I don't go into PTL before then, that's the plan for stitch removal. I am going to get someone to pick up what I need at Walmart, I was just lulled into this false sense of security since the 'cervix of steel' seemed to be holding up even with my cheating. So I had planned this as an outing more for a change of scenery and for fun. But no, no, no. Fun will not be on the agenda in a mobile sense for quite some time I am thinking. I went through the list and decided I could live without most of the stuff I was going to get, like another pair of HUGE pj's and sweatpants. I will just live in my uniform! The one pair of each that fits. But my son does need underwear, most migrated over to his Dad's house and never made it back. Maybe I will check out Walmart.com! I have lots of free time to get online right?!;)

[brajohn1]

hi ladies,
twoinoven - sorry to hear that there is a dent in the armor of the steel cervix, but it doesn't sound like it is too bad.. just stay down (i know you already know this).
i know what you guys mean about gradually gettng up a bit more. the doc gave me the ok to be up a bit more,but sometimes i wonder if i am overdoing it. i am getting SO BIG now that i wonder how my little cervix is going to hold up under the pressure. i've gained 36 pounds. i'm at 27 1/2 weeks. i was thin to start with, and the doc said the weight gain is normal for my size, but holy moly! my belly is really getting big.
i laid down most of the day today. i am wondering if i've been up too much - generally i get up, shower, dry my hair, get some breakfast, then lay down for a while, then get up at lunchtime to eat, then lay down again, then get up here and there to do miscellaneous things. i went out for a quick dinner with hubby sunday night. i hope its okay. i go for my level 2 u/s on thursday so i'm going to have the good 'ol cervix checked again.
i am supposed to go to the dentist tomorrow AM, now i'm wondering if i should just skip it and let the teeth rot. ha!
anyway, hang in there twoinoven. 3cm is still not bad... i've been at 3.5 and the doc has been very pleased. have you had contrax?mine seem to be getting a little better... thank the lord. but i still have them.
i guess it is better to be safe and not sorry. it is hard though! well i better run. keep in touch!!!!!

[HopeNFaith]

Hey Ladies,

Sorry twoinoven about your cervix, but at least that cerclage is holding up, right? My cervix has been about 1.5 cm and funneling since I got the cerclage five weeks ago. I go to get it checked again today.

I know what you all mean about starting to cheat a little. It's hard to stay down when you generally feel good. Seems like we should be able to get up and do stuff, but we know otherwise.

Twoinoven, I've done a whole lot of online shopping! I've started ordering Christmas presents and some baby clothes and maternity clothes. It's great cause it comes right to your door! As long as you don't mind waiting a little bit to get it. It also helps pass the time quicker.

Brajohn, you should skip the dentist. My doctor won't let me do anything! My husband asked if he could take me to dinner for our anniversary and they said no. He also asked if I could just go sit at a relative's house for a few hours for my baby shower and he said no. (So they brought the shower to me last Saturday - so nice to have company!)

I also can't believe how much weight you've gained already. But that's good. I don't feel I've gained enough, but doc says as long as the babies are growing as they should (which they are so far) that I'm doing ok with weight.

How's everyone sleeping these days? I can't always get comfortable. My hips hurt and sometimes I can't breathe too freely and then there's the heartburn! I end up propping myself up with all sorts of pillows. I can't imagine how it's gonna be in a few more weeks when I get even bigger!

ok I'm rambling so I'll just say that I hope everyone's hanging in there!

[twoinoven]

You know, I have always been a sound sleeper, except of course when I had my little one, I heard every move he made. But now, I wake up at the oddest hours in the middle of the night, and cannot get back to sleep for what seems like hours! Most annoying of course is the most frequent- the 5AM hour. What is up with that?! Then I get back to sleep right about 6 or later when it is starting to get light and I know my son is going to be up shortly so when he tries to get me up I am a zombie!
I do have a Tempur-pedic mattress that I bought after my back surgeries so I have no hip pain or shoulder pain from sleeping on my sides, it's like a cloud.
I have gained 22lbs at last check. I am sure it would be lots more if not for the morning nausea, not so bad anymore, but I just drink two boosts for breakfast, solids don't sound good in the morning.
Brajohn, I did have scattered contractions yesterday, but not enough to alarm me, I think the babies were changing positions again. But it's wierd, I am afraid to not worry about them. A woman in our twins club had them all day once and kept thinking they would go away, she waited until her husband came home from work to go get checked, she was in labor and they couldn't stop it. Her babes are still in NICU, one had to have intestinal surgery. I forget how far along she was, I think 28 weeks? I will check on that.
About that heartburn Hope- have you tried Pepcid AC yet? My doc said it's okay and it really works for me.

[mytwingirls]

Hi ladies,

nice to hear everyone's updates.
Seems like we all have the same problem: sleeping. Out of 7 nights/week, at least 4 of those I wake up at about 3:30 and can't go back to sleep. Don't laugh at me, here is what I do since we can't get up and do stuff anymore. I have small head phones connected to my radio and listen to talk shows:) There is one that's called "Coast to coast AM" and I love it. That usually takes me through the night. But, just like you Twoinoven, I fall a sleep about 5AM, wake up an hour later, like someone was beating me all night long. This is just the beginning with all the sleepless nights. I truly believe that our bodies are preparing for what's to come. So amazing!!!

HopeNFaith,
good luck with your appointment today! I hope it goes well. let us know when you come back.

[brajohn1]

hi gals,

good to hear from you both. about the heartburn, at my last docs visit i got a prescription to ease the burn. it is working so well... it is wonderful! i am supposed to take one pill a day, but i find that taking one pill every other day is enough. the doc said the pill doesn't hurt the babies at all. so that problem is solved!

as far as sleep goes, it is hit and miss. some nights are no problem, other nights i don't sleep at all. i got one of those body pillows, which helps. i find sleeping on my right side works best, but i hear it is better to sleep on the left side. do you guys know?

i had a panic attack (not literally) yesterday because a friend emailed me an Excel spreadsheet list of all the itmes she wants/needs for the babies. it is super organized with websites, name brands, helpful hints, etc... i feel like a moron. i have been so focused on keeping my babies inside that i haven't thought much about all this stuff. so anyway, my mom is going to babies r us to buy me all the basics - hooded towels, crib sheets, bathing tub, onesies, etc.... she is going to ship it to me.
my cribs should arrive by the end of hte week! yippee!

keep your fingers crossed - i go for my u/s tomorrow afternoon. i hope all is still well.

well i better run.... hang in there!
brandy

[twoinoven]

Just talked to one of my midwives, they are not too concerned about the funneling and she wasn't surprised that I was sneaking in a little more activity. Just cautioned me that I shouldn't be, esp. now with the report. She also told me that the other woman they were seeing with twins went into labor at 26 and a half weeks and delivered her girls. They had to go to Denver (level III nursery) but are doing good. That's a relief, to know IF something were to happen now, they stand a good chance, but still, I want them to stay in there at least 9 more weeks! Then I'll be 36 weeks.

[HopeNFaith]

Hi ladies,

Went for my weekly check-up today. The sonogram was good...babies fine and had grown too. They are now 1lb 9 oz each which they said is right on target. No change in my cervix...still funneling to the stitch.

When I went in to see the doctor though he said he wanted me to go to the hospital tomorrow for a test that can determine how likely it is I'll go into preterm labor and then he wants me to consult with a peri right afterwards.

I have no problem doing this, but it just seems like he was suddenly more concerned about me going into preterm labor than before. I asked if he saw something in particular, but said that it was just I was at really high risk with twins, cerclage and my nice big fibroid. Maybe it's cause I'm getting further along now? (25 wks)

Started talking about shots to develop their lungs and other options. He did say they are viable now and would live if they were born, but they'd have major challenges. Of course, I knew that already.

I'm sure this is a good thing to go do this now before there's more of a problem, but it kind of freaked me out. I do NOT want these babies born yet or anytime soon. I thought I was doing really well, getting through the weeks, staying off my feet, etc.

I knew PTL was a very real possibility, but I felt confident that I could hang in there a while longer. Now I'm kind of scared about it!

Hopefully, I'll be home tomorrow afternoon reporting back to you all on how it went. I'm a little worried I might end up stuck in the hospital for some reason. I can handle home bedrest, but being in the hospital would suck.

Soooo, wish me luck ladies!

[brajohn1]

hey gals,
hopeinfaith -i've heard that the test they do to see if you will go into labor soon is not that accurate. there is a thread somewhere on this board about it, but i'm not sure where. i read that it said some women who go into labor within two weeks and they ended lasting another 9 weeks.... so don't get freaked out if it says you will go into labor soon.
is your regular doctor an o/b or a peri? when i started having problems with my cervix, we switched to a peri (i don't go to my o/b at all anymore). i just feel better going to someone who deals with this kind of stuff all the time. to him, i'm not an unusual case - he sees this stuff all the time. maybe your doc just wants another opinion from a doc who is more experienced with high risk cases. my old o/b had only had experience with two cerclages.... do you know about your doc?
sounds like your babies are doing great! almost 2 pounds! i find out the measurements and weights tomorrow. looking forward to it, but always feel alittle nervous.
twoinoven - i know what you mean about being relieved that the babies are viable now, but i'm like you , i want them to stay put for another six weeks or more!
hang in there.. keep us posted on your docs visit, hopeinfaith

[mytwingirls]

HopeNFaith,

I am so glad that your appointment went well. Babies are growing, your cerclage is holding up and that's what matters. I would be freaking out same as you, if they wanted me to do that test. But, like Brajohn said, your OB probably is just not experienced with PTL and wants to send you to a specialist. Ever since I started having problems, I only see my OB for a regular appointments:weight assement, BP, urine analysis...Everyhing else, all the u/s's and vaginal exams are being performed by my peri. Which I love anyway. I like my OB a lot, but my peri is a special guy to me now. Both my husband and I love him.
So, don't worry too much. It's just another test and when it comes back negative, you'll feel so much better. Please let us know as soon as come home...you WILL be home tomorrow. I just know it!!! :):):)

My next cervical length is on Friday. I always get nervous before those. Hope it's all OK.
There was something else I wanted to ask you: it's a little personal...hope noone gets offended.

What is your vaginal discharge these days? Do you notice any difference. The reason I'm asking is that, I heard that some women leak amniotic fluid w/o even knowing it. Many times I have a little wet spot on my underwear, usually with some white discharge and I get freaked out. How would you know?

Wish you all a very peaceful evening,

[brajohn1]

mytwingirls!
i have the exact same thing... discharge and a little wetness in my underwear. i was really concerned at first, thinking i might be leaking fluid. but my fluid levels have been fine, so i've stopped worrying so much. not to get too graphic here (sorry TMI!), but i think what happens with me is that i have a little whitish discharge and there is a little ring of what looks like water around it. i think it is just from the discharge. the docs tested my discharge and it was normal. apparently with twins we are prone to more of this lovely stuff... all the hormones.
i'd tell your doc and be sure you ask what your fluid levels are (get the numbers each visit to compare)... and have the discharge cultured. from what i've read if it is odorless and whitish, it is normal. if it has an odor and if it is yellow or green (yikes), then it can be infection.
i go for my u/s today! hope that cervix is still hanging in there! i'm also curious to see how big the babes are. i'm almost 28 weeks... i'll keep you posted.
hopinfaith, how was your docs visit?

[mytwingirls]

Brajohn,

thank you very much for your replay. What you described, again sorry TMI (white with a wet ring around it) is exactly what I have. Sometimes more-sometimes less. I guess it's all normal.
You know how it is once you've been diagnosed with something? You always wait for something else to happen.

YOu are almost 28 weeks. That is wonderful!!! Wish you all the best at your appointment today. Let us know how it went, as soon as you can.

I just love our little club here. Going thru the same situations, giving each other advices and words of encouragment.
THANK YOU ALL VERY MUCH!!!

[HopeNFaith]

Hi Everyone,

Back from my visit with the peri and everything is fine. They didn't do that test to check for PTL. He said it would only tell me if I might go in labor within the next week or so and since they already know my risk is high, he said it wasn't worth doing. They did do a level II u/s and said everything looks good...babies look good, stitch holding up. So he sent me home to just keep doing what I'm doing...nothing!

After talking with the peri, seems like my doc just wanted to be sure they weren't missing anything. I like the doctors I go to and I trust them completely. They do deliver a lot of twins and have dealt with cerclages, etc a lot too. I think since I have other factors to contend with they are being extra cautious.

I feel a lot better after this morning's visit. I really feel like I can last for quite a while and get these babies to a good point.

Anyway, Brandy, I too am more comfy on my right side. Doc said either side is ok (left is better though). I make a point of laying on my left for a while during the day.

I'm glad someone asked about discharge even though I know it's not a pretty subject. I've different types of it off and on for a while. At first they said it was from an infection..gave me meds to clear it up. Then I had yeast infection...did monistat and cleared it up. Now I have some again, kind of just watery. Not amniotic fluid thank goodness. Guess something I just have to deal with.

And thanks everyone for you support and encouragement. It really does make a difference!

[Cheri]

Hi everyone!

Glad to know everyone has been doing well recently. We're all still hanging in there....waiting patiently (and sometimes not so patiently, myself included). I know what you guys mean about wanting to increase your activity level at times and thinking it's ok. I did this several weeks ago and then ended up right back in bed because of the whole funneling thing and was also reminded of how high risk I am and the importance of laying low especially until 30 weeks (which I know). It's so hard some days not to want to get up and go somewhere-even just to Target or Walmart. But, thank goodness for on-line shopping! I'm going to do most of my Christmas shopping on-line this year.

Since there's been some talk about the sidelying position, thought I'd pass along some info. Lying on either side is better than flat on your back (especially as you get bigger) because the babies weight puts pressure on your Vena Cava (primarily) & Aorta (major vein and artery) which can decrease blood supply to your body. By lying on either side you decrease this risk. Since your Vena Cava lies on the left side and is the most susceptible to compression when you lie on your left side you shift the weight off of it, thus allowing blood to flow freely. When you're on your right side, it also helps, but it's just that the left is more effective.
Sorry this was lengthy, but hopefully understandable.

Is anyone having a lot of pelvic/vaginal pressure and/or swelling? I am and I'm only 22 + weeks. Last night I used an ice pack and elevated my hips, but boy am I sore and swollen. I can't even imagine what I'll be like as time goes on.

I agree that this is a great little group :)

[mytwingirls]

Cheri,

I don't have any pelvic pressure, but I used to have some vaginal swelling. It was right after they put the cerclage in. I'm not sure if it was related to the cerclage or not, I had it for about 10 days and it went away.
Thanks for explaining about the whole "laying on the side" issue. I knew that the left side is better than the right side, but I had no idea why.


I've been disciplined about not leaving my house for anything except doctor appointments, but I've been walking more and more inside the house. I have no idea how much I can do. I am cooking and cleaning, but I make myself a smoothy from time to time, clean out the dishwasher and stuff like that. I hope I am not pushing it.

Take care all,

[kjinlady]

Hi everyone,

I am currenlty 22 weeks with b/b twins. I also have a 2 1/2 year old, very active little boy. Had a cerclage put in around 18 weeks as a precaution because of my history and my cervics was short. Also had a cerclage for my 2 year old for the same reasons with no problems. Thankfully I have not had any of the complications you are all experiencing at this point and am not on bed rest. I feel very lucky and am taking all of your advice to take it easy. I see a high risk OB and go to a Perinatologist once a month for a level 2 ultrasound. Very soon I will start going for weekly non stress test. Has anyone else gone through this?

Cheryl, I am also experiencing alot of pressure and pelvic pain and it scares me at time. I feels like my lower abdomen is hard a a rock and it almost feels like cramps, my OB feels it is just pressure.

I am also having a real difficult time sleeping, if I lay on my left side my left shoulder hurts, if I lay on my right side my right hip hurts, if I lay on my back I can't breath. Guess I just won't sleep for a really really long time.

It's so wonderful to be able to chat with others in my situation, I feel so alone in this. Thank you all for being there, this is a really scary time for all of us. Good luck to all.

[twoinoven]

Well, since you've all broken the ice, I've been having the discharge too, more like a clear to whitish mucous on the watery side, doesn't smell bad though. I wish they could send us home with those test strips that tell you if it is amniotic fluid though, would ease my mind at times when it is more copious than average! Enough of that!
Today I have felt pressure in the front of my lower abdomen, I think maybe baby B turned head down again? If she did, I hope she stays that way! I heard that I should be feeling their hiccups soon, I am 27 weeks this week. My son (almost 5) has hurt feelings because he hasn't felt them kick yet. He says "I guess they just don't want to kick me mom". I keep telling him not to worry, he will feel them soon!
Glad to hear the good news about doctor visits today! :)
PS, I love our club too!
Welcome Kjinlady, are you from Louisiana?

[brajohn1]

hi gals,
so good to see so much activity on this thread. it helps a lot. you ladies are my only sources of support for cerclage - i don't know anyone where i live who has had one.
anyway, had my docs visit today. mixed report.
i have started to funnel a bit... i feel disappointed because i haven't had this at all. the doc says it is normal and that i shoudn't freak out. he said it was great that i went as long as i did without any funneling.. i guess i was hoping i'd be superwoman and not have any funneling at all...
also, i did the 1hour glucose test last week and they told me today that it came back a little high so i have to go back in on monday for the three hour test. have any of you had this yet? so now i'm worried about that too.
on the bright side, the babies look good. fluid levels are good and the babies are now both head down. also, they are almost exactly the same size and have very healthy weights. 2lb 8 oz. each!! my husband and i (and the doc) think we might possibly be off a week on my due date... so i am somewhere between 27.5 weeks and 28.5 weeks. i'm going to average them and say i'm 28 weeks. so i feel i've reached my first goal - next is 30 weeks, then 32. the doc feels i've still got several more weeks in me... so hopefully we'll get there and the babes won't come too early.
one question.... have any of your docs told you the "average" that a cerclage will last? mine said 8-10 weeks, but also said that this wasn't totally accurate... i feel confused. i got my cerclage at 20 wks, does that mean i'm almost at the end of the time for it?
look forward to hearing from you all soon!
brandy

[kjinlady]

Hi,

Yes I am originally from Louisiana but haven't lived there for a long time. I miss it.

brajohn1 - this is my second cerclage and my understanding is that it stays put until you deliver. In fact with my first they induced labor and didn't remove the cerclage until I had the epidural. I know someone else who had a cerclage and her's also lasted until delivery. I don't understand the 8-10 week thing.

[kjinlady]

Hey Brajohn1,
Just wanted to add, I just did a search on the internet for "cerclage" and it said that a cerclage is usually removed at 37 weeks but said nothing about it lasting 8 - 10 weeks. I'd talk to the doctor about that again, it sounds odd to me, but hey, I'm not a doctor.

[HopeNFaith]

Wow, so much activity here lately and so much to respond to!

First off, welcome kjinlady! Glad things seem to be going well for you so far...hope it continues.

Brandy, I hope you misunderstood about that 8-10 week thing! I had mine put in at 20 weeks also so I want it to last way longer than that! The doc never said anything to me about that, just that it would come out around 37 weeks or so. And I know it's hard, but try not to worry too much about the funneling. I've been funneling the whole time. Doc said as long as I don't go into PTL the cerclage should hold.

Some of you mentioned lower abdominal and vaginal pressure. I've had that too sometimes...feels kind of like one of the babies is pushing down on my cervix. Sometimes it even feels like I'm being kicked in my cervix! Anyone have that sensation? I'm always somewhat relieved when I don't feel that anymore.

Twoinoven, I didn't know they had test strips like that! You're right, how reassuring that would be to have. Have any of you ladies used them?

[brajohn1]

i am as confused as you guys about the 8-10 week thing, maybe they meant that is how long you can go without funneling?? i don't really know - i'm going to ask again. i'm sure they were referring to cerclages that are put in late (in the second trimester), not the ones that are put in early as a precautionary measure (at 12 weeks or so)
i know about that strip you are talking about. after my cerclage they put one in a pad to be sure wasn't leaking fluid (i had also had an amnio that day). if it turns blue, it can be amniotic fluid- any other color is ok. those strips aren't foolproof though, they say other things can make it turn blue (like blood). the best way to tell if it is fluid is to have it cultured and run a test and if it comes back with a fern-like green pattern it is amniotic fluid.

i'm trying not to worry about my funneling. i guess i should be grateful i went over 7 weeks without any funneling at all. i just want to get the next few weeks over with!! the nurse said that if you can get to 32 weeks (which they feel i can), the risk of long-term negative effects on the babies goes way,way down. that is only four weeks away for me. of course i'd like to last longer, but at least i'm getting there!
oh, and by the way, my babies are almost 3 pounds each! i miscalculated. they are 1260 and 1262 grams each - that is around 2 lbs 13 oz. they are biggies!!! i think it runs in my family . i weighed over 10 pounds when i was born!
better run. i have so much to do here on the couch. (ha)

[twoinoven]

Brandy,
When I was pregnant with my son, I too had a high test so they did the four hour one for sugar, that one turned out fine. This time they made sure I ate breakfast that morning, which I didn't last time. The test was fine. Last time I don't remember them telling me to eat and the appt. was early so I just chugged the stuff and drove to the doctors. I guess it really makes a difference if you eat. Hope your's turns out fine. I remember I was working midnight shift when they did the long test, I slept in the waiting room and they woke me up for the blood draws!:p

[brajohn1]

hi twoinoven- the docs told me not to eat for the three hour test... i'm supposed to fast 8-12 hours (basically overnight, no breakfast). i hope it turns out ok, but if not they said usually you can control it through diet (no more sweets, simple sugars,etc.). i am going to stay positive.
have you been decreasing your activity? i guess i'm going to also. i really wasn't doing a whole lot before, except more getting up around the house. they really didn't act so surprised that i started funneling, so i guess it is pretty common. i just hope i hang in there for the next month or more! i think i will.

are you guys taking extra iron? i've got to start doing that too. and they said it causes constipation. great!

[Cheri]

Hi everyone!

Thanks for all the replies about the pelvic pressure/swelling-didn't think it was just me, but it's more reassuring to know others have the same experience.

Kjinlady- Welcome to the board! You're due right around my time 3/17/04. Sorry about the trouble sleeping-have you tried a body pillow? It has worked pretty well for me in the past, though I haven't resorted to it yet for this pregnancy. About your Non-Stress Test (NST). It's a very routine, non-invasive test that they do to monitor your babies to make sure they are "reacting" as they should for their gestational age. (Basically they look for elevations and dips in their heart rates). Good luck!

Brajohn1- Sorry about the funneling-I never thought I'd have it either, but guess we've both got it now. We've just got to be very cautious about activity. I've never heard of the cerclage only lasting a certain # of weeks. This is my second and I wasn't told for either one of them that they wouldn't last the duration. The sutures are not dissolvable, so the only reason it wouldn't hold would be if you went into PTL. Lots of women have to have a second glucose tolerance test, so don't worry too much. It will more likely come out normal this time. I'm not taking extra iron supplements except what's in my prenatals. Couldn't take anymore constipation-already taking colace for that.

I feel pretty good today-a little sore from the pelvic pressure, but other than that ok.

Hope everyone else is having a good day :)

[mytwingirls]

Hello ladies,

lots of activities here lately. I love it!

Welcome to the board Kjinlady!!! I'm glad you found us. You will get a lot of support and lots of answers to your questions here, since everyone is going thru the same as you are.
Wow, where do I start?!

Brajohn...you have two big babies baking. That is so wonderful! Must be a huge reasurance knowing that they weigh so much? Congrats mamma!!! I've been funneling since we put the cerclage in. As long as your cerclage is holding (and it will), there so no reason to be worried. Plus, that's something that comes and goes. That's how I've been at least. Sometimes is more, sometimes less.

As far as 8-10 weeks...what I know is that if you don't go in PTL, your carclage will hold till the end.

We had another cervical length exam this morning and thing looked stable. There was no change since the last time. Cerclage is holding tight:):):) My cervix was the same size...1cm w/o cerclage and about 3cm with the two stitches. Also, he said my cervix looked firm, which is a good sign too. They want to see me next time in two weeks, for the first time. I've been going weekly for the past month. This will be weird. I also have glucose test scheduled Friday after Thanksgiving. I hope I pass that and don't have to do the big one.
My peri said something very funny. He was looking at me and said "you're face is getting rounder and rounder...which is good. It's all milk" I hope it is. I would love to be able to breastfeed. It's so healthy for the babies.

I told you few days ago, that we were invited to a friends house for lunch/dinner tomorrow and I was worried if I should go or not. Our friends offered to come over and bring some food too. I was so happy about that!
Then Sunday my mom and sister are coming. Weekends are always so nice!!!

That would be all for this time. My husband and doggy Champ are soon gonna be back from work. My husband is selfemployed (owns travel agency) and takes Champ with him to work:) Unless, he has meetings or something.
Take care,

[twoinoven]

Brandy, I am definately decreasing the activity! The shortening and funneling was enough to convince me to slow down! Back to being very good about not getting up! About the iron. I got really constipated with the over the counter supplement, then my midwives got me a ton of samples of one called Fumatinic which is time-released, way better!
I have gotten bigger this week! I had a cold and so put off showering since Monday, ( gross, but I felt yucky!) when I did take one this afternoon, I had alot of trouble getting to my legs! Boy's head was making it near impossible to bend!
It is great to have so many of us here now! All pulling for each other!:D

[mytwingirls]

I forgot to mention iron supplements. I've been taking those since 2 month of pregnancy, after I was diagnosed with anemia. I've been taking Slow Fe...slow release iron over the counter and have not had any constipation problems.
Friend of mine was taking some prescription stuff (not sure which one) and it would either make her poop all the time or not at all. Weird!

[HopeNFaith]

Hi Ladies,

How is everyone? Are you all on that iron supplement? I'm not. They gave me folic acid supplements. I guess it depends on what the bloodwork says?

Has anyone gotten the shots to quicken the development of the lungs? My doc mentioned it last week and I forgot to ask the peri about it when I went. I'll ask at this week's appointment. Does anyone know if there are any bad side effects to the shot? It sounds like something I'd like to do if there aren't any negatives to it.

Hope everyone is doing well!!!

[twoinoven]

Maria,
I have been taking the iron for a few months. I was on the low side of normal as far as the bloodwork so I guess just a precaution. I was also taking cod liver oil from the time I knew I was pregnant, I had heard that it helps brain development. I ran out and don't know if I will get more now. I am taking an inhaled steroid for asthma, I wonder if it will help the babies lung development? I need to ask doc. I don't know about side effects of the steroid shot, but I have been thinking about that too, that maybe it's a good idea just in case? I see my midwives this coming friday, I will ask them what they think.
Hey, I finally meet my doula this coming Monday, she is coming to my house! We have been in touch by email and phone, can't wait to meet her!
Melisa, I am going to try the Slow Fe, I didn't know there was a time release available OTC. I had free samples from midwives, but the prescription cost $30 and Medicaid won't cover it. I was thinking I was going to have to suffer with the regular and constipation again! Thanks for the tip!

[mytwingirls]

Twoinoven,

for SlowFe, 90 pills package I paid about $20!!! For three months supply, I don't think it's bad at all. Try it out...I hope it helps. My OB said, I didn't have to check my blood work again, because slow fe will give me what I need.

Yesterday was full 26 weeks for us!!! Now, when I think that I was only 21w3d when we found out about my cervix, I realize how early it happened. So scary!!!
My next goal is the Thanksgiving weekend, which is full 28 weeks.
As far as steroid shots for lung development, no one ever mentioned it to me. I am probably still way early to be taking that. I have no idea.

Another question: I would love to go to Babies R Us to buy the rest of the things we need. Like cribs, bedding...car seat...all the big stuff. But, I don't want to walk. Do you know if they have some kind of a wheel chair or something like that at the store? Or, where can I rent one for a day?

Hope that everyone had a good weekend!!!

[HopeNFaith]

Melisa, seems like you and I are almost exactly the same...I'll be twenty six weeks tomorrow. I had the same thought..that my first real goal is to get through Thanksgiving when I'll be twenty eight weeks! It's getting close. We'll make it!

As far as the steroid shots go, I think now is when they would be most beneficial in case something were to happen. Cause isn't it around thirty or thirty one weeks when their lungs are almost fully developed? Or is it later?

Twoinoven, I have to plead ignorance...what's a doula? And let me know what your midwives and/or doc thinks about the shots. I won't be going to the doctor until Friday.

Oh yeah, Melisa, you can shop online for babies r us. They have a site linked to Amazon, but it's all babies r us stuff. I don't know about the wheelchair thing, but I'd be surprised if they didn't have something. Why don't you call ahead and ask them?

[twoinoven]

Melisa, Call ahead to see if they have motorized scooters like they do at grocery stores and walmart. If they don't , you can rent a wheelchair at pharmacies for a day or week or month. I borrowed one from my church indefinately since the doc said I can go on the occasional 'fall outing' if I used a W/C.
Maria, a Doula is a birth coach. Do a search and you should find lots of info, Since my hubby won't be there, I figured it was the best route. Even with my first husband, he wasn't much help at the birth. This time a girlfriend will be there but the doula's (team of two) will do the most coaching, my friend will probably be videotaping. I meet the doula's today, I can't wait!:)

[mytwingirls]

Maria, I was going to buy it online, but the shipping charges are huge. JC Penney wanted to charge me $199 for two cribs and a dresser!!! THat' is way too much. That' why I wanted to go to a store and shop there.
This morning I called Babies R Us here in St Louis and they do have a wheel chair. So, that's what I'll do. It will be just like a doctor appointment, I figured. I need to buy all the big stuff like: cribs, mattresses, changing table, bedding...

What is everyone else doing as far as shopping for suff like that?

[HopeNFaith]

I am so tired today! Last night I did not sleep at all. I have been getting increasingly uncomfortable lying here in bed. My hips, legs, side and butt aches so bad no matter what position I'm in. I've used pillows, body pillows, etc. Doesn't help. Wish we could afford a new mattress. How are you all doing? Sorry, I had to gripe a little. I'm grumpy from lack of sleep I guess.

Melisa, I know what you mean about the shipping charges. I was going to buy a crib from Penney's at first too, but with tax and shipping it wasn't a deal anymore. We had gone to a few stores before I got put on bedrest and brought home catalogs and flyers. I'm so glad because now my husband is going to go to babies r us and order the crib we want and I don't have to worry about what he's picking out!

Also, have you tried ebay? There were some nice cribs without the big price tag on there. We were going to get a brand new one from ebay but we got some babies r us gift cards from people so we are going there and putting them toward the crib and mattress. We are buying a changing table from ebay though.

Twoinoven, thanks for explaining the doula. I had no clue. Hope the meeting with them goes well and that you like them!

[mytwingirls]

Stacy,

thank you very much for sharing your story. It's so wonderful to hear a success like yours. Dilatated to 4cm and made it to 35 weeks??? Amazing!!!
Did you get to go home after the cerclage was put in? Did you literaly lay in bed all day long...did you ever sit up on the couch? I know those questions sound funny, but you know how it is. You never know how much is too much.

Thanks for sharing again and CONGRATULATIONS!!!

[brajohn1]

hi ladies,

good to hear from everyone! i am also inspired by twinsmommy's story... wow! that gives us all hope.

i am feeling relief as i just got the results of my 3 hour glucose test... it was normal! my 1 hour test was on the high side, so they ordered the longer test. i was concerned because my babies were measuring pretty big, and thought it could have been related to gestational diabetes, but thats not the case! i just have big babies!! yeah!! the doc thinks i could be genetically predisposed because i weighed 10lb 2oz when i was born!!! my babies are almost 3 pounds each already. i've gained 40 pounds.

i go back in for a cervical check on thurs... we'll see how the funneling is going. the doc tells me that he expects this to happen, i just have to lay low and not overdo it.. i'm just glad i've past the 28 week mark, though i want these babies to stay in there longer!
about the shopping - i ordered cribs online and they just came.. i agree that the shipping is ridiculously expensive, but my doctor told me "NO SHOPPING" . so i sucked it up and paid the shipping. i also had my mother go out and buy some basic stuff for me (hooded towels, onesies, blankets, etc...) and she is shipping that stuff to me (she lives out of state). i'm beginnig to feel more on top of things, though i still need more stuff (stroller, bouncer, etc...) but little by little.... pllus this stuff is all so expensive... yikes.
i'm going to ask my doc about steroid shots when i go thursday. will let you guys know what he says. he hasn't mentioned this yet. have any of you started non-stress tests? or have your docs mentioned them yet?
hang in there everyone! we'll make it!

[twoinoven]

I agree, Twinsmommy's story gives me inspiration that we can all make it!
No non stress tests scheduled yet. Brandy, glad the GTT went well! That's a relief huh? I go tomorrow morning for cervical measurement ultrasound. Will post with results tomorrow!
I met one of my doula's today, the other couldn't make it. I like her alot and am glad she will be with me.
I had quite a few braxtonhicks contrax scattered throughout the day, but they have gone since I am laying down now and not propped up on an elbow.
Is anyone else getting a 'sore elbow' from leaning on it to eat, etc? My left one is flaky, red and sore! It will probably develop a 'bedrest callous'!:rolleyes:

[HopeNFaith]

Hi ladies,

It is always good to hear another success story. Gives us encouragement to keep doing the bedrest and reminds us that we can make it too! And Stacy, thanks for the information about the shots. I'm definitely asking about it on Friday.

Twoinoven, my elbows aren't sore. But everything else is! Does moisturizer work on those elbows? Do you have to lay flat all the time or can you sit up? I try to sit up in bed during the day just to change positions. Glad you liked your doula. When will you meet the other one?

How much weight has everyone gained? I feel like I haven't gained enough...about 18 lbs and I'm 26 weeks. My doctor said not to worry about it too much since the babies are growing right on target, but of course, I worry anyway. Feel like I'm eating good and even drink ensure at least once or twice a day.

What else is new girls? Everyone feeling ok? (soreness and aches aside!)

[mytwingirls]

Hi ladies,

glad to hear that everyone is doing fine!!!
Brajohn...congrats on your glucose test results. Mine is coming up the Friday after Thanksgiving. Wish me luck:) Your babies are so big. Lucky you! It probably is genetic. Do you take any supplements, what do you usually eat...?

As far as soreness...I do feel sore from time to time. It's usually my ribs or my back that hurts. Changing positions usually helps. The thing is it will only get worse and worse from now on :( But, that's OK.
I have gained almost 30lb and I am 26w4d today. But see, I'm not sure if that really matters as far as how much your babies weigh. One of my babies is smaller anyway. They will take as much out of us as they need. I think as long as we are gaining something, it's ok.

Another question: how old are you and your dh? Did you conceive naturally or with IVF.
I am 30 and dh is 33. This was our second IVF and we conceived after almost 5 LONG years of trying.

Twoinoven...good luck with your u/s tomorrow.

[brajohn1]

hi gang! so good to hear from everyone.

i wouldn't overstress about weight gain if your babies are at the right size - that is what matters... i think i just inherited my father's hearty scandanavian genes and am genetically predisposed (my cousin weighed 11 pounds at birth) .. my babies arent gigantic, just on the big side for their gestational age. ive had no problem packing on weight. i'm 5'9 and weighed 128 when i got pregnant, now i'm weighing around 168 (depending on the scale)... i'm 28 wks 3 days. i had gained 30 pounds by 24 weeks. i have been eating lots of protein - i call my husband the "protein police" because he would literally stuff meat into my mouth (he has since laid off a bit).. i think weight gain also has to do with your prepregnancy weight - if you were on the low side, then your body needs to make extra fat to compensate . i have read that heavier women tend to gain less weight. (don't know if this is true or not).
to answer another question, my husband and i conceived naturally. my mother is a fraternal twin - i think i inherited that gene too! we were actually engaged when i got pregnant (oops!). i went off the pill a couple of months before our wedding because i figured it would take a while for me to get pregnant ( i had been on the pill for over 10 years continuously). well, i was wrong. according to our calculations, i got pregnant in 6 days after quitting the pill. unbelievable. needless to say, we pushed the wedding forward a bit so that i wouldn't look like the big, pregnant bride, but i was still showing a little bit (i was around 12 weeks)..
gotta run.. will write more later...
hang in there!

[brajohn1]

wow stacy - you are a trooper! i had a small taste of "total bedrest" when i went in to the hospital for the cerclage. i had to stay 5 days because i kept having contractions (at 20 weeks). i was on mag sulfate and terbutiline (i don't know which was worse). but i had to use the bedpan and was not allowed out of bed AT ALL. my hair was a rat's nest by the fifth day with no shower and i'm sure i looked really attractive. (But this was just 5 days - you went through much more.) finally the contractions calmed down (but have never fully gone away - apparently i have a very irritable uterus) and i was allowed to go home. been here on the couch ever since.
you are an inspiration to all of us! thanks for sharing.

[twoinoven]

Hey girls, I had the u/s, shortened to 2 cm and funneling, doc wants me to go in to hosp and get monitered for awhile and then decide. I did have scattered bh yesterday, some for a minute or so, but not a whole lot in one hour, so hopefully they will send me home with anti contraction meds. pray for me! They mentioned stricter bedrest, with bedpan use... whatever it takes! I don't want to take the laptop to hosp, so I will check in when I get home.

[brajohn1]

hang in there twoinoven! we'll all pray for you. hopefully you'll be out of the hospital soon. keep us posted when you can.

[mytwingirls]

Twoinoven,

wish you all the best!!! I'll be thinking about you.
Let us know as soon as you come back.

Good luck!!!

[HopeNFaith]

Twoinoven, hang in there! I'm sure it will be okay. But I will be praying for you anyway. Do let us know how things went!

[Cheri]

twoinoven,

I hope everything is going ok with you! You're definitely in my thoughts and prayers.

I, too went to the hosp. today....had a bad night-awoke around 3AM with bad back pain and contractions every 5-10 minutes. After 2 hours the contractions became less frequent and everytime I thought about calling by OB I told myself I'll just wait another hour. By 6:30 I still had bad back pain, so took a hot shower, got dressed and ate breakfast. (Thought eating and drinking would help some). I took some Terbutaline at 8AM which decreased my contractions even further. My mom and DH told me I had to call my Dr.-so I did and he sent me for monitoring to the hospital. Everything checked out ok, except the nurse noted my cervix was soft-though stitch intact and I had no bleeding. So, since I have an appt. with my peri on Thursday I was sent home to rest and will follow-up with her. I had a feeling something was going on with my cervix with all the back pain-it happened before.

I came home and adhered to bedrest dutifully. My mom thinks I've been up too much lately, which is probably true-but like I said to her "Could you lay in bed 24 hours?" I need to get up and stretch once in a while. I think I learned my lesson today, though.

I'll let you know how Thursday goes.

[HopeNFaith]

Wow, seems like there's a lot happening all of a sudden. Guess cause we are starting to get further along?

Cheri, I hope your visit goes ok and they get the contractions under control so you don't have to go back to the hospital. Let us know what happens!

Melisa, you had asked a while ago about how we conceived, etc.
I don't remember if I told you this already...I'm 36 (will be 37 in Jan). My husband just turned 42. We conceived through IVF on the first try, but only after lots of other infertility treatments for several years like you. I was about to give up hope so for me these are truly miracle babies and I am determined to do whatever I can to make sure they are delivered healthy.

This is a second marriage for both me and my hubby. He has three children from his previous marriage. One is in the Navy now and the other two live with us, so we will have a houseful.
I never had children with my ex...we tried but I miscarried twice very early on.

This isn't the pregnancy experience I had dreamed of, but that's ok as long as these boys are fine. I can't wait to be a mom!

[brajohn1]

hi girls,
well, it does seem like a lot of activity is going on! i also had increased contractions last night - made me a bit worried. i'd say at the most i was having one every 10 mnutes, but they calmed down in the night and this morning they seem to be better, so i'm going to wait til i go to my peri tomorrow morning. i don't think i've had one at all this morning. i really, really, really want to get into the 30 week range with these babies. i don't want them to come out yet - too many risks.
cheri - do let us know how your docs visit goes. i also have terbutiline at home and i almost took one last night, but didn't. i really don't want to have to go back on it, but i'll do it if the doc tells me to. how far along are you?
Hopenfaith- my husband also has three children from a previous marriage. this is my first marriage. he is a good bit older than me. his older two children aren't around so much (one is in college out of state and the other is 16 is mostly lives with his mom), but his 8 year old is definitely here a lot and will be really involved with our new babies. how do you find being a stepmom? it has gone fairly smoothly for me, though the middle boy is not exactly thrilled about the new babies (his first response was, "well, my inheritance just got cut way down". ) but the other kids have been wonderful and we really have a good relationship.
hope twoinoven is ok.. we're all waiting to hear from you!
keep in touch everyone.
brandy

[twoinoven]

Hi everyone!
I am home now. They were going to send me home yesterday evening, then I had a string of contractions so they kept me. Started me on Procardia 10 mg, then increased it to 20mg every 6 hours (even woke me up!) and the contractions stopped. They had been pretty regular there and were scaring me. Some got as close as 7 minutes apart, yikes! Anyway, they gave me two sleeping pills and I had a somewhat good sleep for part of the night. Had an ultrasound this morning, cervix at 1.9 and still funneling, but not quite up to the cerclage. Babies both look about the same weight, almost 2.5 lbs! Still vertex/breech. They look fantastic and are very active. Boy is always ramming the cervix when I get an U/S.
So anyway, I am home on 20 mg procardia every 6 hrs. They are going to send me to the hosp for cervical measurement every week, closer than the doctors office. Then they are either going to have me stop by the midwives office on the way home to get checked, or they will do home visits with me. They don't want me to sit anymore, or prop myself up in bed, they want me as flat as possible. Also want me to put blocks under the foot of my bed! This will add a new twist to the bedrest, don't know how I will get son and I fed at night, mornings I just have Boosts, but I usually microwave some prepared meals for our dinner, not supposed to do that anymore. Will probably go to weekly showers, yuck, but I want these babies to stay put!
Cheri, sorry to hear about your "wake up call" too, I guess we'd better be resigned to being vegetables for the next stretch! Thank God for this site!

[HopeNFaith]

Twoinoven, glad you are home and that basically everything is okay. Sorry though that you are going to have to be completely horizontal! Better at home than in the hospital I guess.

Do you have someone who can help out with your son? Weren't you getting help from support groups? Maybe they can step up with some more assistance.

Hang in there. Before you know it this will all be over and there will be two little babies to care for.

Brandy, I haven't had it too bad as a stepmom. The oldest (who is now gone) was the hardest to deal with. The middle child (the only girl, now 16) is also sometimes hard to deal with because of issues with her mom, but basically is a good kid. The youngest has been great, but I'm thinking is a little worried about how two new babies are going to impact his life. He was concerned he might not get as many Christmas presents because of the babies!

[mytwingirls]

WOW...there is a lot of going on here.

Cheri and Brandy...it must have been scary having all those contractions!!! I am glad that both of you are doing OK now.

Twoinoven, I am so glad that you're home!!! Please take care of yourself and your babies.

I might have asked before about everyone's situation...sorry. My brain is probably swelling as everything else is too:):):)

[Cheri]

Hi everyone!

twoinoven- so glad to hear you're home again, though sounds like it's going to be rough. Lying completely flat is no easy task, especially when you have a big belly to contend with. How many weeks are you again? The weights are good though, so try to hang in there awhile longer. I look at my son everyday and thank god that I hung onto him for as long as I did (33.5 wks) because of how healthy he is and it could have been so different. He gives me the daily inspiration to keep these two healthy.
I'm sure it will be more difficult some days, so feel free to express your frustrations or whatever here.

Brandy-sorry about your increased contractions as well. We're all definitely moving ahead and the further along we get I think the more little bouts of this we will have. I'm 23 weeks. I hope your symptoms continue to improve. Please take it easy.

Stacy- thanks for the info. I completely agree that often with increased contractions they're not making any changes to the cervix and it's reassuring. I'm much less concerned with the contractions-unless they're way out of control. But, what was the most concerning was the new onset of acute back pain associated with the contractions. This is the symptom I had with my son that put me into preterm labor at 27 weeks where I was started on MgSO4, given the steroids, etc... I think as you said, do what your Dr. requests and pay attention to your body.

HopeNFaith-Glad you were able to get pregnant with your new husband! It was obviously meant to be and You're doing so well hanging onto them. Boy you will have a housefull after they're delivered. Hopefully the kids will be helpful and excited. This is a second marriage for both of us, too. My DH is 47 and I'm 33. His kids are grown. People are amazed that he is excited to start over, but he figures he's more patient now and it's kind of a second chance since he was so young with his first. We'll see how excited he is when he's up at all hours with the twins! Ha! Ha!

[brajohn1]

hi ladies,
glad to hear you are home twoinoven... i hope you'll be able to get some help with dinner, errands, etc... hang in there! sounds like we are pretty similar - around 28 weeks, healthy sized babies, cerclage, contractions, etc....
i've had a few contrax today, but don't feel too alarmed esp. since i'm going to the doctor tomorrow morning. i wish they'd go away!! i wouldn't worry at all but my cervix began funneling last week... (for the first time since the cerclage) but the doc says as long as it stays at the point of the stitch, it shoud be ok.
so anyway, i'm jsut trying to stay on the couch.
cheri - my husband is much like yours. he is 50!!! (but you wouldn't know it - he is very active and very youthful). he is very excited about having the twins, and has heard a lot of "you are crazy to do this so late" from his friends. but he doesn't care. when we got pregnant he was as excited as me.
well, i'm going to take a nap. i've been really tired lately. how about you girls?

[Cheri]

I was just about to log off, but saw your latest post and couldn't help checking it out. I feel like we all have a running dialogue here, it's wonderful.

Hopefully a nap will help settle your contractions. Let us know how your appt. goes tomorrow morning. I have another u/s with my peri tomorrow afternoon and will check-in after that.
Great to hear your husband is so excited and 50! I have a friend whose DH was also 50 with their first (second marriage thing, too) and he was wonderful. My DH is also active and everyone tells him he doesn't look his age. He's a bit extended right now though because of grad school and juggling all this, too. But, he graduates this Friday! We're so excited, but not sure yet if I can attend. I really want to sneak out just for a bit, but I'll check with my peri first.

Enjoy your nap-I can't seem to nap as much these days for some reason.

[twoinoven]

Cheri, I am 28 weeks now. Yeah, it's going to be tough laying flat. Amazing how tired I got just being in there overnight, I was exhausted, couldn't wait to take a nap this afternoon.
One thing about the contractions, my midwife visited me this morning and I was saying "well, my contractions aren't that strong" and she said that she just sent a 33week pg mom home with stronger contrax than mine, they weren't changing her cervix. But mine, mild as they were, were having an effect on my cervix. Although I have to tell you, some of them were uncomfortable, I could really feel discomfort in my cervix.
I am extremely glad to be home though. I am going to have to get more help, have to swallow my pride and ask.
Guess what though? I got an email from the editor of twins mag. and they are going to start a thread for single moms of twins! I had written asking about that awhile ago.

[HopeNFaith]

I love this thread. Like Cheri said, we really do have quite a diologue here which is great.

Twoinoven, you do need to get more help. Just remember it's for those babies more than anything else. But I think you did a really great thing by getting that new thread started for single moms. I'm sure that will be tremendous support for lots of women.

Sometimes I wish we all lived close by and that I could actually get up and help you out (especially you twoinoven). I feel good right now, like I should be able to hop out of bed and just do normal things. Don't worry though I won't.

But hey, we are all still here! We all still have those babies "baking". And look how far we've come already. We can go longer! I know we will.

On another note, anyone here experiencing sore breasts? I have tenderness on my right side which I didn't have before. Does this just come with the territory?

[twoinoven]

Maria,
I second that feeling. I wish we all lived close enough, but this is great too! I've told the nurses and docs and midwives about us all, and they think it would be great to all get together one day with our kids! It would be neat!
I'm gonna go look in the twins shoppe and see if they have tshirts for big brother. My son is so excited, he talks about it to everybody. Now he is really worried I'll have the babies when he is in Minnesota visiting his grandma with his dad the week of Dec 29. I told him I'd do my best not to have them that week, but we know we don't really have that kind of control!

[mytwingirls]

Hi ladies,

how is everyone doing today?
Brajohn and Cheri...I hope your appointment go well today. Let us know when you come back.

This is the first week sice I had cerclage put in, that I don't have to have an u/s. Since everything looked stable last month, my peri decided to skip this week...unless I start having some problems. My next u/s is Monday after Thanksgiving. It just seems so long to wait. But, with holidays it will probably go by very fast.

Don't want to bring you all down, but...I just don't feel well today. I haven't had a bad day in a while...today is one of them. I was thinking how long it took us to get pregnant and how excited I was when we found out, never thinkig about having problems. I was always dreaming about having fun while pregnant, taking walks with my husband...Please don't get me wrong. I am so thankful that everything is ok right now and that we caught the problem on time...it's just one of those days, you know?
Sorry about whining. I had to:(

Now back to our conversation:)
As far as sleeping, I don't have any problems. Few weeks ago, it was horrible. I would wake up in the middle of the night and couldn't go back to sleep. For the past 2-3 weeks, I've been sleeping like a baby. And also, I started snoring!!! My husband said it's so laud and funny. He bought me those nose strips, but they don't help. I hope it's just pregnancy related. I feel bad for a poor guy.
Also, if you have difficulties sleeping at night, try not to take any naps during the day. I get really tired about 9-10PM, but try to watch The Letterman Show. By the time is over, I'm so sleepy.

I admire you whose husbands have children from a previuos marriage. It's probably wonderful if they understand the new marriage, baby...But, like Brandy was saying about one of her boys and his response to the new babies "well, my inheritance just got cut way down"...that must be hard. You are some strong women!!!

My sister and my best friend stop by once a week during the week. They over the weekend my mom and sister come over and do the laundry, cook for us and stuff like that. We also have two cats and a dog. Cats are with me in bed all day long. One of them, Missy is the loveliest cat on the world. She loves attention and loves to be held. I am so glad I have them...I don't feel alone all day long:)

What is today's plan? How often do you have people coming to see you?

[twoinoven]

Melisa,
I can empathize with your feelings. This was not supposed to happen like this. I had not got ANYTHING ready for these babies, and no way planned to be on bedrest at 21 weeks. It is going to be a loooong haul by the time we're done, but I've read other mom's say when the babies are finally here and you look back, alll this will seem like a blink!
My plan for the day was laying in bed LOL! Getting used to laying here on a slant. My son thinks it's cool. The procardia makes me warm and flushed. The slant makes my heartburn worse. I got my u/s appt. set up for next week, Tuesday, then I stop by the midwives office for appt.
My son got picked up by his best friend for an ice skating thing this afternoon, followed by her 5th birthday party, so I am on my own until tonight. I feel like I hardly saw him this week with being in the hospital and all.
What is everyone else's day like? I used to break up the monotony by getting dressed, but I guess even that's out now. Was it someone here who said it felt like one of the babies was kicking her in the cervix? I am getting that feeling too.

[mytwingirls]

Twoinoven,

I have those low kicks. Sometimes it feels like it's inside my cervix and sometimes in between my cervix and the rectal area(sorry). I have no idea which baby it is. First I thought that it could do some harm to my cerclage, but my peri said no way. It just feels that way.
Sorry about the hartburn. I hate it!!! Are you taking anything for it?

[Cheri]

Brandy-how did your appt. go????

Mytwingirls-sorry you had a bad day! I felt the same way with both my first pregnancy and this one-thought all the IVF treatment was the hard part and was hoping to fully enjoy the pregnancy like most people can. But, I found out that getting pregnant turned out to be the easy part (if you call 6 years of trying/treatments, etc... easy)-it was carrying the babies that was the most challenging. I must say though that as I look at my beautiful, healthy son sleeping next to me right now it's all worth it. It really was a blur to me now how much time I spent at home on bedrest and in the hospital, even the magnesium and terb, etc...

HopeNFaith-not too much breast tenderness right now-though I'm happy to say that my bras are way too small for me now. A big bonus I must say :) I loved breastfeeding my son and did so for 18 months (longer than anticipated, but he didn't want to quit and it was so easy), but after I stopped my breasts were smaller than before and I was bummed.

Well, saw my peri today and the good news is that the girls look great. A is measuring 23 + 3 days with a weight of 1lb 5oz and B measures 23 + 5 days with a weight of 1 lb 7 oz. Bad news is that my funneling is worse and she told me that I absolutely have to stay off my feet and maintain absolute bedrest. Said it's only going to get worse with the growth of the babies. Also she doesn't want me to ignore the contractions that I've been having even though they're not regular. I'm supposed to take my terbutaline more often-so looks like pretty much around the clock for me. I told her what happened with the contractions and back pain on Tuesday and she said that if that were to happen again I might not be so lucky as to stop the contractions-especially with twins. God, it's way too early for these girls to be delivered, so I'm going to do all I can to prevent the problems.
Twoinoven-looks like I might be needing the slant board as well-have a lot of pressure on my cervix these days. The babies definitely feel like they hit it with their movements at times, too.

I spoke with my mom and DH about the situation and they are supportive and will do whatever it takes to keep me in bed, but my son is soooooo active and climbs everywhere, runs around, wants mommy, etc..... We're going to have to work out a better schedule to give my mom a break since he's such a handful and she's just not physically able to keep up with him. My DH as you know just finished grad school, but starts his new job on Monday and also must prep for his board exam. He has to pass so that he can keep his job and support all of us. Sorry about the whining-I think I just needed to vent and get it off my chest in order to move past it.

Well, I've rambled on long enough. Good night everyone.

P.S. Does anyone watch Survivor? I was sooooo sad to see Rupert voted off-he's been great to watch.

[twoinoven]

Cheri, did you know there is a thread for Survivor fans on the 'what's bugging you?' forum? Looks like you are in the 'take no chances' bracket now too. Here I was bragging about the thickness of my cervix and feeling like I was somehow immune to shortening and funneling. WRONG! I feel like a fool for that, I just pray we make it week by week the further the better. The contractions really have me paranoid. I usually have one or two right before my next dose of Procardia is due. Do you know, is the Terb stronger than the Procardia? I hope they have more options if the Procardia stops working.
Melisa, I am taking pepcid and tums for the heartburn, but especially with the slant board, it's not really doing much lately. I think there is a prescription safe during pregnancy for heartburn. Anybody know which one? Does it work?
Oh,hey, know what else? I asked the perinatologist about the betamethasone (steroid) shot for lung development. She said that it usually is not given just as a preventive unless it looks like delivery is imminent, due to the fact that it has been found to slow down development of the head size and brain. I'm pretty sure she said brain too. Maybe she just said head size and that the brain was still developing until the last minute so they don't like to just give the steroid early. She did say that at around 28 weeks, the babies most likely would have to be on ventilators, but only temporarily. Chances are good for no long term problems even though they would have to be in NICU for most likely two months due to inability to maintain body temp and feeding issues. This was reassuring to hear, but the goal is still 36 weeks for cerclage removal. I will just keep praying!

[Cheri]

twoinoven- it's almost 4 am here and I can't sleep because of the terb. Makes my heart rate faster and I feel jittery. Plus I'm hungry but I don't want to wake my DH for food. I'll have to have him stock me up tomorrow. I hope the Procardia works for you for the duration. Why are you on it as opposed to terb? I'm not familiar with it being given for contractions, only hypertension. I'm an ER nurse and give it for htn, but never for contractions. I don't have any references with me to look it up now either. To answer your question about other meds for contractions-yes magnesium sulfate can be very effective, but it's given intravenously and you must be monitored in the hospital. Side effects make you feel pretty yucky, but if it works it's worth it (in my opinion).
I'm sure you have other options for the heartburn as well, but don't recall which other ones are safe-check with your midwives.

Thanks for the info on the steroid-was wondering about giving it proactively. I had it with my son, but like you mentioned it was only given to me because they thoughb my delivery was imminent. I proved them wrong though and held out another 6.5 weeks :)

I'll check out the survivor thread, too!

[HopeNFaith]

Hope this works! I've tried posting twice now and am having problems.

Everyone's been busy writing here...so much to reply to!

Melisa, don't apologize for venting. We all need to sometimes. I understand completely about not having a "fun" pregnancy. I had a hard time getting over that feeling too. But I'm sure you feel as I do that what's most important now is getting these babies born healthy. That's when the real fun will begin anyway, right?

Twoinoven, thanks for the info about the steriods. I'm going to talk to my doc about it too, but I guess it's not something we want to do unless it's absolutely necessary. I'm glad you're 28 weeks now. That's my first big goal to get to also. I'll be 27 weeks on Monday so I'm almost there. Then I'll be so happy to get ANYWHERE in the 30's.

I know now what you guys mean when you talk about getting kicked in the rectal area! My boys have just started doing that. Feels weird. But I'll take that to feeling them kick way low around my cervix!

Melisa, I have a BIG golden retriever named Samson. He's my only company during the day. He stays by my bed the whole time. He's a big mush! Loves getting petted and some attention.
He helps keep my spirits up. He'll come nudge me if he senses I'm upset. Helps take my mind off of whatever's bothering me.

Well, I need to run. I have a doctors appt. this afternoon. Hope everyone is feeling okay today!

[twoinoven]

Cheri, Doctor said Procardia is commonly used for PTL nowadays. What about taking Ambien for sleep for you? I use it occasionally now that they sent me home with a scrip. It is really hard to wake up at midnight and then at 6am to take the procardia. I feel so pressured to go right baack to sleep that I can't. I have bags under my eyes!
Melisa, Do you drive yourself to doc appts? I felt a 'rectal kick' yesterday too. Weird sensation isn't it?

I am just hoping as things progress and I feel worse that I will be able to hang in there and not be wimpy about the discomfort. I had a good pity party last night because son was at bday party, I got signals crossed with friend and had to call my neighbors after dark to take care of the chickens and pony and dogs. And here I lay in the dark all alone. I had a good cry. It's hard at those moments when I realize my husband is gone and doesn't give a hoot. I hope this procardia keeps working! I keep having a contraction right before next dose is due. I go for u/s tuesday so I hope it is better.

[brajohn1]

hi ladies,

i feel like i've missed so much in only a day! my hubby had to take the laptop to work yesterday, so i couldn't get online until just now. to update, i had my peri appointment yesterday and basically i'm about the same. still funneling, but the stitch seems to be hanging in there. the doc took two measurements, 1.7 and 1.9 (when i got the cerclage i was at 1.5 so i guess i have a tiny little extra bit still left). i was at 3.5 for about seven weeks after the cerclage - i guess my time has come to funnel. :(
i told him i'd had some contrax and he didn't seem overly concerned since i told him they went away by the next morning. he told me to stay on "modified bedrest". basically i can get up a little bit around the house, but no leaving the house, lifting, etc... all the obvious stuff. my hubby asked him what we should be looking out for and he said "she'll know when something is different".. he told me to really pay attention to my body and let them know if something different happens - a difference in my discharge (if it gets mucousy or changes colors) if i have any bleeding, if the contrax change from how they've been (if they feel different, if my back hurts)... he told me about a patient he has right now who has NO cervix left at all and who is going to require a transabdominal cerclage (basically they cut you open and reconstruct a cervix, much more risky). so i guess i should be thankful that my situation is not worse.
we also talked with the nurse about how far along i am. she said i'm somewhere around 29 weeks (on thurs). hubby and i had figured 28w4d. so perhaps the few days difference can help account for the larger sized babies... anyway,, i'll take whatever extra day i can get! so i think it is safe to say i'm at 29 weeks now. almost to the thirties!
i had my last childbirth class last night and a woman came in and talked to us (the doc lets me go but i take a pillow and have an extra chair and try to semi-lay down). she delivered her twins at 30 weeks. she brought in pictures of her babies in the NICU. she said it was really hard. i really hope we can all avoid this. she said she has no memory of her babies being delivered. she had gestational diabetes (pretty severe) and some other complications and was completely drugged during her c-section. then she didn't get to take her babies home for 9 weeks. but now they are fine. it helped encourage me to stay down.... her babies were all hooked up to tubes and machines... i hope we can all avoid that as much as possible.
someone asked about heartburn meds - my doc prescribed protaxin (i think thats right) and it works well for me. it says i should take one pill a day, but i find that one every other day is enough. i still take an occasional tums.
about having "bad days" .. don't ever feel bad about this! i have them too! i wonder why my pregnancy has to be like this and other women are able to work and exercise and do all kinds of stuff. last night at my class a woman said she is at 36 weeks with twins (she is huge) and said they checked her cervix and it hasn't moved at all. still firm and closed as can be. and i think about me at 19 weeks with a 1.5 cervix!! plus, my husband and i have had no time to just be together as a married couple. we've gone straight from marriage into a complicated pregnancy (no sex, no going out with friends, no movies or dinners out, etc....). but i guess i also have lots to be thankful for.. i'll quit complaining!!!
have any of your docs recommended a maternity belt? it helps relieve the pressure from your back and cervix for those times when you do have to get up (for potty, etc..) i got one called the "belly hugger" and it does lift... maybe worth a try? i got mine online.
i also talked to my doc about steroid shots. he said for about 5 years or so doctors were using them as a preventitive measure, and were basically overloading women with steroids. he said it is not common practice to do that anymore. he said if labor looks imminent and you are early, they'll give the shots. but not as a "just in case" type thing.
okay, i've rambled on long enough. i hope all of you are well . i so look forward to reading your posts!!
brandy

[mytwingirls]

Hi ladies,

Maria...good luck at your appointment today. I hope everything goes well for you!!! I can't wait to hear the update. I LOVE goldens...they are so cute!!!

Cheri....sorry about you not being able to sleep because of the medicine you're taking. I have heard different stories about anti-contraction pills and some of them are not pretty. Meg sulfate is supposed to be of the worst. I am still pill free...knock on the wood and I hope to stay like that for a while.

Twoinoven...my husband takes me to all appointments. Peri wants me to be in a wheelchair at the hospital, so I don't have to walk that much. It's always so funny in the waiting room. We are usually the center of everyone's attention with me being in a wheelchair. They probably think"poor woman". People just keep staring at me. Sometimes I just want to say "Hi" to everyone:):):)

Brandy...29 weeks is wonderful! Congratulations!!! Your cervix is stable and that's all that matters. As long as the stitches are holding and we have no contactions, we should be fine. Let's hope so.

Talking about stitches...how many do you have? And, when you talk about your cervix length, is that including the stitches or not. Here is what I have: my cervix was only 1cm when they put the cerclage in. Then, they put two stitches to make my cervix longer. With the stitches, my cervix is almost 3cm, because those two stitches made it that long. Now, as long as the cerclage is holding, my cervix will be 3cm. Is that how yours is too?

Also, we all have our goals on how long we would like to go with this pregnancy. But, deep inside of you, how long do you think you'll go? For some reason, I think 35 weeks! That would be middle of January. It's still a LOOOONG way to go. I hope I don't jinx it!!!

Also (I am never gonna be done with this post:))...I started drinking Boost. I make myself smoothies with it. I mix one can of Boost, one fruit yogurt, some fresh fruit too. If you don't like the plain taste, try mixing it with something else. It taste really good.


Talk to you later!

[brajohn1]

hi twinsmommy, sounds like the steroids were the right thing for you. your story encourages us all to hang in there!!

mytwingirls- about my stitches: i measured 1.5 when they put the cerclage in. my doc said he double stitched it (i think it was a modified McDonald cerclage, to be technical). for over seven weeks after the cerclage i measured at around 3.5, meaning that the double stitches gave me that good length (like yours). at my 27.5 week ultrasound they found that my cervix was funneling again, almost to the point of the stitches. and that's where i am now- measuring at around 1.8 (from the point of the funnel to the other side). i don't expect that it will close back up again at this point. the doc says that the funneling back to the point of the stitch is quite common. there is no indication that the stitches won't hold... he said that the only thing that could really cause a problem is if i go into full blown labor before they can get the stitiches out, which would cause long-term damage to the cervix. (basically stitches would tear through the cervix i think) but that is very unlikely (he said he has seen one case of that in ten years). if my water breaks or i go into labor, they'll take out the stitches right away. if not, they'll leave them in until 36 weeks.

i'm kindof going by 2 week goals - i reached my first one at 28 weeks, will reach another one by 30, etc...
haven't tried boost, but i have been drinking a carnation instant breakfast every day - provides some extra vitamins and calories.

one question: for those of you with boys... will you have them circumsized or not? my hubby and i don't know what to do...

[Cheri]

Just wanted to say hello to all of you and wish you a great day-even though it's almost over! This is the first time I've had to check in today.

I've had a good day so far-no problems and have enjoyed having my DH home. He graduated last night and will start his new job as a nurse anesthetist Monday. I couldn't attend which was a real bummer, but a good friend of ours went and I just told her she could be his pseudo wife for the event :)

Friends bringing dinner over soon for us which is a real treat!

Babies very active today and I've got a bit of heartburn, but all good.

Take care,

[mytwingirls]

Hi ladies,

glad to hear that everyone is OK. Although, Maria has not posted since before her u/s. I hope you're OK Maria!!!

Guess what I did today??? We went to BRU!!! I used their wheelchair and was not on my feet at all. We bought everything we needed...all the big stuff like: cribs, mattrasses, dresser, car seat(we got one already), sheets, bottles, nuks...Now, we need to paint their room in light yellow:), wash all the stuff and start organizing.
But something scary happened at the store. Before we went to the store, I went to bathroom (#2-sorry) three times. Then at the store, 10 min after we came I was so hot and started feeling dizzy. I thought it would go away, but it didn't. I puked about 5 min later. I have no idea what happened. I was so scared! I remember someone saying how when you're in labor, you can feel like that. But, I didn't have any contractions or anything like that. Must be something I ate. I am fine now and happy that I bought everything I needed.

It's late now. I am getting ready for SNL :) Hope you all have a wonderful Sunday!!!

Talk to you tomorrow.

[twoinoven]

Brandy, Just wanted you to know when my son was born almost five years ago, I decided not to circumcise him. I read alot of the pros and cons of the issue. One instrumental article was in a men's magazine. It mentioned all the nerve endings in the foreskin and had quotes from a man who was circumcised as an adult. He said the difference in sensation sexually was like the difference between driving a Volkswagen and a Cadillac. I figured I didn't want to do that to my son. And as far as the cleanliness issue, he will learn how to properly care for himself. The foreskin is just now getting to where he can roll it back.
I also feel like if God didn't want it there he wouldn't have put it there!
On another note, I went through nursing school in the 80's and watched a circumcision performed. It was awful, the baby was strapped to a plastic board and screamed through the whole thing. I believe they use anesthetic topically now, but I cried when I saw it. Back then they said the baby wouldn't feel anything, baloney.

[brajohn1]

thanks for writing me about the circumcision twoinoven - we went over this in my last childbirth class and they showed up pictures of an actual circumcision - where they strap the babies arms and legs down... it was sad. i guess i had assumed that we would just do it, but now i'm rethinking it. they do use a topical anesthetic, so hopefully the baby doesn't feel too much pain. anyway, we are still talking about what to do on this issue. i think if you want to do it, they get it done right away, before you take him home from the hospital.
my baby A is kicking like a maniac. do you guys notice one baby kicking more than the other, or do you generally feel them kick at the same time. i feel baby b too, but he hasn't been quite as active as baby a lately (past day or two).
cheri- congrats on your dh's graduation. what a relief!
mytwingirls- are you feeling better now? i've also heard that vomiting/diarreah can signal labor, but if you have no contrax i don't think that would be it... just hope you are feeling better now.
i'm feeling pretty good, still up here and there but mostly lying down. i'm pretty uncomfortable these days, get up about 4 times a night to go pee and find it hard to get back into a comfy positon. have occasional contrax, but nothing new. i think i'm just one of these women who is going to have braxton hicks contrax. i don't have any other symptoms of preterm labor,so the doc isn't overly concerned. he said i'll start nonstress test at 32 weeks. have your docs mentioned this?
well, i'm going to lounge on the couch and do some internet christmas shopping. have a great day everyone!

[Cheri]

mytwingirls-I, too hope you are feeling better! Hopefully it was just a brief bug and nothing more. Drink plenty of fluids and continue to rest. I'm so happy for you that you were able to buy all the stuff-I think it's really better when you can be there to pick it out. That's why I'm waiting, until I can go too.

Brajohn1-No mention of routine stress tests yet, though I've already had a couple because I was having contractions and back pain. Yes, I definitely feel baby b kicking and moving around much more than baby a. I think it's their personalities. A is simply more quiet, mellow and lets me know she's alive and well, but B is constantly making herself known. It's funny now! I have to agree with twoinoven about circumcision. I struggled with the decision for awhile with our son, but my DH didn't want it done and said he wouldn't allow it. After really looking at the pros and cons I came to agree with him. In nursing school I did see some done and it was awful. Even now, it's not much better. Looking back I'm glad with the decision. But, it is definitely a decision you'll have to make and just know the facts and go from there.

[twoinoven]

I keep forgetting how far along everyone else is. Brandy, are you 29 weeks this week? I will be on Thursday (doc's figure it at Tuesday, but I know better, we got married on a Thursday and didn't fool around before then soooo...) But sometimes I like to thinkof it as Tuesday because it is more reassuring!
I am usually only getting up once a night to go pee now, mostly because I stay up till 12 to take my dose of Procardia. Staying up that late is wiping me out! Then I set the alarm for 6, take another dose and go back to sleep. Today I slept until 1pm after the 6am dose! I am used to going to sleep at 9!
Doctor's haven't mentioned nonstress tests yet. They insist I have my cervical ultrasound done at their office which is much farther than the hosp. I would think it would make more sense to have it done at hosp. and if things really were changing, I wouldn't leave until I heard back from doctors, but oh, well, I will listen to them. As the days go by with no strings of contractions I am beginning to think I really will make it to 36 weeks. (I HOPE)
As to baby movement, I used to feel B alot more than A, used to worry about it, then A must've shifted and now I feel them both about the same. Before I think A was always facing B and kicking her, or the placenta!

[kjinlady]

Hi everyone,
Wow, I have been out of town for a week and there was so many responses to read. Hope everyone is doing well.

Twoinoven and Cheri - sorry to hear about the contractions and bedrest/hospitilazation. It must be difficult and frustration to be on bedrest, but just keep thinking about those beautiful babies, it will all be worthwhile.

Cheri/HopeNFaith - I also concieved through IVF. I have a 2 1/2 year old boy concieved after the first attemp. Then tried again 3 more time and got pregnant with triplets. Lost 1 at 11 weeks due to genetic abnormalities and am now 24 weeks with 2 boys. I feel so blessed and will do everthing I have to to get through this. It's really difficult because I am 44 years old, my husband is younger, 35, so I depend on his energy.

Brajohn1 - I know what you mean about being tired all the time. I have so much fatigue, I am sleepy all day long. I feel like such a slug. I don't sleep well at night due to pain in my hip. Someone else had mentioned this. With my first child, I remember having alot of pain in my hips and legs. The doctor said it was because your hips are preparing for child birth. The doctor will check me for anemia at my next appt when the do the diabetes test. I'm thinking that's probably what it is because I have been anemic off an on all my life.

Mytwingirls - I started snoring with my first child also. It was so bad that my husband had to sleep in another room and I would wake myself up. The nose strips did not help. Try using saline nasal spray 3-4 times everyday. It doesn't cure it but sure does help some. Also, try a humidifier or vaporizer. I remember I could not breath through my nose at all. Makes your throat very dry and sore. I'm just starting to snore again.

Some of you talked about the babies kicking in your cervix. I have that also, it feels like he's going to kick right through, must be a football player. I also get alot of kicking on my bladder, ouch. I feel one baby move more than the other, I do feel both of them alot and at the same time usually. They seem to take turns, I think they are trying to send me a moris code message. "We need more room."

Do any of you feel like you can feel the babies growing. I know this sounds weird, but there are times when I can feel my stomach stretching. It's the strangest feeling.

I thought I was having contractions yesterday, but I think it was really bad pressure. Sometimes it's hard to tell and I worry about every little pain. Reading your stories helps, but it also makes me aware of what lies ahead. I get alot of really sharp pains low on the abdomen. I worry that the cervix is pulling on the cerclage. Will have to ask the doctor about that.

Carolyn
24 weeks fraternal b/b
mother of 2 1/2 year old boy

[mytwingirls]

Hello ladies,

it's another week and we are still here. Wonderful!!!
How is everyone doing?

Carolyn...glad to have you back! I thought that you were on the bed rest too? Those sharp pains could be your ligaments stretching. I feel it to sometimes when I get up or move positions. Unless, you have shooting sharp pains "down below", that could be something else. One or both of my babies kick my bladder all the time. Sometimes, that makes me go to the bathroom 1-3 times in 5 minutes:) With two babies, we can expect kicking all over the place:):) The only place I never feel them kicking is up high near my ribs. I wish they would kick my ribs and not my cervix and my bladder:) But, as long as they kick and grow, who cares, right???

About circumcision...just in case one of my girls turns out to be a boy:), we woud do it. My husband was circumcisised when he was almost 14 years old, because of health reasons. I agree with all of you that, the way they do it is almost barbaric. They basically just cut the skin off. Awful!!! Poor little boys:(

My peri never mentioned NST. In my situation, he likes to take one week at the time and go from there. Don't they start doing that after 30 weeks? I never asked, so I have no idea.

BTW...I am 27w2d today!!! YEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I feel fine and hope to stay this way for...let's say 9 more weeks:) That would be wonderful!!!


HopeNFaith...are you OK??? I worry about you. We haven't heard anything from you in about 3 days. I truly hope you're just busy and everything is OK!

I didn't watch Joe Millioner the first time, but this time I am hooked. I guess, since I have no other stuff to do. Tonight is the last episode...can't wait

Talk to you all later!

[brajohn1]

howdy ladies,

good to hear from everyone. things here are going well. lots of movement from the babies, particularly baby A (my girl). i'm wondering if she has flipped positions - for the past two days she has been moving like crazy. and its like i'm not just feeling a "kick" , it is more like i'm feeling whole body parts rubbing up against my belly (sounds strange). like i can feel her whole arm or her head or her rump, etc... it is amazing. the boy is moving around too, just not as much. i think he is more mellow. what are everyone's baby movements like? how do they feel?
twoinoven - i am around 29 and a half weeks. we are counting every saturday as the new week, but the doc said we may be a few days further along than that. also, when i type in the first day of my last period (into a pregnancy calendar online) it comes up that i should change weeks on thursdays (meaning i'll be 30 weeks on thanksgving). so we are kindof averaging the two - at the minimum, i'm 29w2d, at the most i'm 29w5. hate to sound so technical, but for us every day matters!! (i know you understand that)
i'm getting really uncomfortable these days. my belly is just huge. i can't imagine it expanding even more.... i do feel that stretching sensation that you describe kjinlady.. i've been putting tons of lotion on my belly.
i'm finding it hard to get comfortable, i get heartburn, i get achey in my back and legs... etc..... the doc says i'm like a woman at 35 weeks with a singleton.
i'm also so emotional. i had a crying fit this morning with my husband. we have had a hard time figuring out which bedroom to make into the nursery. we have a big house, but there are a lot of kids who need bedrooms (my hubby has 3 from first marriage). so we have decided to use his daughter's room (who is 19 and goes to college out of state) as the nursery. but now he feels bad that she is coming home for the holidays and will have no room (she lives at her moms house too, and we have a spare bedroom that she can use).. he feels like he is kicking her out. so i have not set up the nursery yet. i'm so frustrated. i want to get it ready and i can't. (he wants to wait till she goes back to school, which i guess is reasonable). i have the cribs and stuff, but they are still in boxes in the garage.
anyway, sorry for venting. i just feel so emotional lately.

well, i better run. it sounds like everyone is still hanging in there, despite some ups and downs. we'll make it!

[mytwingirls]

Brandy...don't feel bad about being emotional. Remember my post from last week? It completely normal to have those days. My husband is going on a business trip tomorrow and he is coming back on Wednesday. We were talking about it this morning and I felt like, everybody's life is movig except mine :( But, we are doing the most important job on the world right now!!! Sometimes I just forget about that and then feel bad.
Your situation is a little different with your husbands children. Do you think that his daughter would mind if you did the nursery before? If she coming just for Thanksgiving, it's only few more days and then you can start organizing.

I forgot to tell you about my MIL. She is a nice person, but sometimes she does not think what she says. Sometimes I wonder if she means it or what's going on. They live in Europe and I see her every few years. I know, I can't complain. But, I was talking to her yesterday and told her that we went shopping and I had to use a wheelchair. The first thing she say was "I can't even imagine how people were looking at you" Like, it was so weird and embarassing, that I had to use a wheelchair!!! I don't care what people think. What's all that about? Also, she doesn't like one of the names we picked. SHe says she likes is, but every time we talk, she gives me new ideas about names instead of that one. SHe is pi$$ing me off!!!

It's funny to me now and I am trying not to pay too much attention to that, since she is not here in the States. When I told my mom, she was really mad.

That was my went for today:)

Wish you all a wonderfull Monday!

Melisa

[Cheri]

good afternoon to everyone :)

It's like a regular soap opera around here trying to keep everyone and their stories straight...LOL! I lose track sometimes too if I don't check in for a day or two.

Twoinoven- I know what you mean about losing track of everyone's dates, so I went back a few posts and I think these are correct:

I'm 24 weeks today
HopeNFaith is 27 weeks
Brajohn1 is 29 weeks
Kjinlady is 24 weeks
mytwingirls is 27weeks

Sorry if I've missed anyone-I only went back two pages worth of posts.
Anyway- sorry about you losing so much sleep, can't you set an alarm for you Midnight dose? It seems like you're sacrificing too much sleep just for your meds. Also, ask next time you see the Dr. about taking it at 11PM instead and keep the AM dose at 6AM-It would give you 1 more hour of continued sleep and won't really make much of a difference.

Kjinlady- Welcome back! I, too thought you were on bedrest, but guess not. Lucky you :) Hope you had a good trip. Congratulations on your IVF success! Though to lose one of your triplets must have been very difficult-I'm sorry. About babies growing-I definitely feel when they're having a growth spurt. I notice more contractions, more stomach stretching and increased ligament pain (ouch!). Usually within a week my family will say-"wow you've popped out more". So, obviously it's noticeable to others as well.

Mytwingirls- My Peri and OB have a similar outlook to yours it seems-take one week at a time and make no predictions. I found this really helped with my first preg. and with this one too. I'm a big planner/type A so it was hard at first, but after having so many twists and turns, unexpected problems, this approach was the best and I learned a lot from it. Neither have mentioned routine NST's yet, although I've had a couple just because I was contracting. I believe they should start after 30 weeks though.
Good thing your MIL lives so far away-I know friends with worse situations and their MIL lives in the same town-yikes!
I also plan to watch the Joe Millionaire episode tonight!

Brajohn1- Sorry about all the aches and pains, heartburn, etc... Guess I've got more of that coming, too. I also have a lot of movement from the girls-mostly B, though A has been active today as well. I get it on both ends-cervix and ribs, I'm not sure which is worse sometimes. It's difficult to sleep sometimes when they're battling it out in my uterus! My son puts his head on my belly a lot now and I'm just waiting for the day he feels a big kick-wonder what he'll do/think. About the nursery situation-is the spare room too small to make into a nursery? My DH has 2 kids from a previous marriage and even though we get along well and they are seemingly happy for us, I think that if we were in your situation his daughter would really feel upset if we made her room into the nursery. I think girls are a lot more sensitive to this. Even though she's going off to college, she'll be back to visit and probably would feel better in her own room. It's a tough thing, hope it all works out. If it makes you feel any better our future nursery is still the office and it's a mess! I can't do anything about it now and my DH is so busy studying for boards and starting new job that I haven't pushed it-things are hectic enough right now. I can't even look at that room because it's a disaster and I want to set it all up for the girls-Oh well, one thing at a time, right?

HopeNFaith- Are you ok?

[brajohn1]

hi ladies.

i'm feeling better now. sorry for my emotional outburst before...
i am just getting antsy - nearing 30 weeks and want the room to be ready, just in case. it is a little sensitive with my husband's daughter, but i think we can work it out. we have five bedrooms, four upstairs (one for each kid, one for us) and a spare bedroom downstairs. so our house is big enough - it is just the configuration of the rooms that is hard. we can't put the babies downstairs in the spare room, so far away from us. so i asked if his daughter would trade rooms - take the downstairs room and let us use her room (which is closest to us) for the nursery. she agreed, but i can tell that she is a little bothered by it. (she is a sweet girl and seems genuinely excited about the babies) i told her she could make over the downstairs room (which, by the way, is a nice room with its own bath) however she wants so she will feel like it is hers. (she spends the night here so rarely that it seems like a reasonable request to me). but i guess i understand that she could feel put out... anyway, i have no other solution... i'm not sure how to go about this without hurting her feelings. but we'll get it worked out. i'm not going to worry anymore. i'm also anal/type a personality and like to be prepared... i'm learning from my hubby that sometimes you just have to chill out. i'm trying!!

my peri also takes it week by week. he hasn't really predicted how far i'll get... just says that right now there is no indication of labor and we are in pretty good shape. i guess that's the best way to go.
i'm going to start taking my heartburn medication every day, rather then whenever i think i need it. that plan is no longer working! it is called protonix.
well gals, will check in again later.
hopeinfaith- how are u?

[brajohn1]

hi ladies, i came across this site on cerclage and incompetent cervix. thought i would pass it along. it has lots of stories, which are really interesting to read.

http://www.geocities.com/incompetentcervix/index.html

[twoinoven]

Cheri, thanks for taking the time to look up due dates! I could've done that I suppose!
Brandy, I have been really emotional lately too, I wonder if its because I am approaching 29 weeks? And I feel what you are describing about baby movements too, like whole body parts sliding around. Then sometimes it feels like someone is twitching in there, maybe hiccups? But really fast. I love feeling them move. I remember the night my son was born, afterwards my tummy felt so empty and lonely. ( I had a spinal headache so he had to be in the nursery the first night ). I had gotten so used to feeling him squirming around as I tried to fall asleep.
Melisa, sorry about your MIL woes. Thank God she lives in Europe!
My mom called this morning from Florida and I finally told her my husband left me. She suspected something was wrong. At least she didn't say 'I told you so' which I am thankful for. She asked if I was going to keep the babies. OF COURSE!!!
I don't have to worry about a nursery, my house has only one bedroom and that is my son's. My bed is set up in the living room. Babies will sleep with me to start, then someday in a crib in son's room. Hopefully I will be back on my feet financially after the babies are a few months old and try to get a loan to add on. I wonder if Habitat for Humanity does additions or just new homes. I have a great location, and almost a quarter of an acre so I have plenty of room to add on, just not the means.
I joined Netflix last night, they have a two week free trial. I ordered my first three DVD's so I should have some good movies to watch on Thanksgiving, meals on wheels is delivering a feast, and my son will be at his dad's, so I have a relaxing day planned!
It will be weird, I always make a turkey and all the trimmings, even if it's just me!
I go for another cervical ultrasound in morning and to midwives for check, will post with results, last week cervix was at 1.9 and funneling.
Hopenfaith's last post was as she was going to doctor's appt on the 21st, hope everything is okay.

[Cheri]

Brajohn1-Thanks for the cerclage link, it's pretty informative. The woman who created the site-bless her for persistence (experienced 3 losses during 2nd trimester before she finally had a successful pregnancy. Don't think I could've been that tough).
Sounds like your room situation will work out somehow/someway.

Twoinoven-Glad you're getting Netflix and also having Thanksgiving delivered. Too bad your son won't be home with you. If only we were all closer, we could have Turkey in bed together :)

[twoinoven]

That just sounds so funny! But that's where we'll be eating after all huh?
Today when the ultrasound tech was first measuring my cervix was 1.6, then she said it relaxed and was 2.0. Funneling to the cerclage now. Went to midwives from there and set up appt for next week. They will consult with doctors and see if we continue the weekly U/S, I think we should. Also, when I checked my urine, my protein had been trace, today it was 30+, so they took blood, will call with results tomorrow, hope the blood is normal. High protein is a sign of preeclampsia right? I have no other signs, no swelling, my BP was fine. And darnit, I forgot to ask for a prescription for heartburn! I will when they call me with results tomorrow.
I am measuring 35cm now! My fundus is right under my ribcage.:eek:
P.S. Can you just picture 6 hugely pregnant women laying in bed together eating turkey?

[brajohn1]

hey twoinoven... sounds like we are about the same, both funneling back to the stitch now. i had hoped my cervical length would hang in there longer, but i guess i should just be thankful that these stitches are working! did you get your blood results back? i think high protein is a sign of preeclampsia. my doc said in the third trimester they really start monitoring for that - i think it happens quite frequently, esp. with twins. let us know.
i'm 29w4d today (by my conservative estimate). i've almost made it to my 30 week goal! next goal is 32 weeks. i'm feeling relieved but don't want these babies to come yet (even though i'm feeling more and more uncomfortable!). the doc said my only job right now is to "gestate". he said it is the most important job i'll ever have ( he is right).
i had a horrible night's sleep last night. the heartburn is from **** and i can't seem to get comfortable. when i lay on my right side, my right hip begins to hurt. last night it was really hurting, so much i could barely get flopped over to the left side. finally it got better. i stayed in bed until noon (before heading for the couch downstairs). i'm going to try and change my eating patterns to see if it helps the heartburn. i've been eating a big dinner with hubby, and i'm gioing to have to change to more frequent smaller meals . i am taking the prescription and tums now. sometimes it helps, sometimes it doesn't.
i'm also measuring at 35 cm (at 28 1/2 wks) . starting next week the doc wants to see me every week until i deliver. i can't believe i'm getting to the point of thinking of delivery. that brings its own set of worries - but i'm trying to take it all in stride.
have a great day ladies! keep in touch.

[twoinoven]

The bloodwork turned out okay. Hope it stays that way. I also had them phone in a prescription for heartburn. They were going to just have me buy Prilosec over the counter, but it's too expensive, so the pharmacist suggested prescription Pepcid, so I got that. I had already taken two of the OTC ones today so I will start the prescription one tomorrow.
I am thankful for my tempurpedic mattress, so I don't get hip pain, I sink right into it, but I hear you about the flopping over part. I will look back later and laugh about that. I really do feel like a manatee, have you ever seen one? They look so cumbersome. My joints are hurting when I'm up though, especially my knees! Must be those hormones that loosen ligaments.
You have set the same goals as me. I reach 30 weeks next week, and the next goal is 32. I got my weekly ultrasound's set up all the way through December so it's keeping me focused on the future. I am getting nervous about delivery too. What position are your babes in? In Dr. Luke's book it talks about doing a trial of labor and having the epidural in place, but not putting meds in until you feel you must have them or a c section becomes necessary. I am going to keep on the doctors so they know I really want to try to avoid an epi. I just am so worried that I will herniate a disc in my back again. I did that with my son's birth, I had an old herniated disc that had been repaired, but I bulged it out again under the epi when I was pushing him out. Then I had two surgeries when he was six months old, I can't imagine doing that again, especially with twins and being on my own.
How are you doing with hydration? I am cursed! I try to drink more but then I am going to the bathroom every fifteen minutes!
One more question, is your cerclage getting harder to see when they check cervical length? Last one I had she could hardly find it, it was faint. Before then it showed up very easily like a bright white line. I wonder if that means scar tissue is forming? I just pray that sucker holds, because these babies are getting big!
Have a nice Thanksgiving!

[mytwingirls]

Hi ladies!

Sorry about not posting for the past two days. I've been so "busy":) My mom came over on Tuesday...she is still here. I've been on a living room couch since then...it's so nice to change a room for a day or two.
I am so glad to hear that everyone is doing fine.

Twoinoven...congrats on your bloodwork. Heartburn sucks! I have it sometimes too and it's not a pretty thing. Hope that the new medicine helps!

Brajohn...you are almost 30 weeks! THat is wonderful!!!
I "still" can't complain about finding a good sleeping position. I have that huge body pillow, that's been the best thing I have bought in a looooong time:)

I will be 28 weeks on Saturday!!! My next goal is to get to New Years...32 weeks and then we will see. I have my glucose test tomorrow. Wish me luck!

Wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving!!!


HopeNFaith...are you OK???

[brajohn1]

hi gals,

well, the bird is in the oven and i'm lying on the couch so i though i'd drop you all a line... hope you are enjoying your day.
twoinoven, glad to hear your bloodwork came back ok. i was worried when i had to go back in for a 3 hour glucose test, but forunately that turned out ok also.
i had to laugh about feeling like a manatee... what a good description!!! to answer your questions - both babies were head down at my last u/s - i'm hoping they'll stay there, but my boy has really been a mover and shaker, so we'll see where we end up. baby A's (my girl) head is way down low. i think i'm going to go ahead and have the epidural (on the advice of the docs) so that i'll be ready if i need an emergency c-section.. i can certainly understand your apprehension - sounds like you went through a really hard time with your last delivery.
i also have to go potty CONSTANTLY! i feel like i take one sip and i have to run off to the bathroom. don't know what to do about it, because i don't want to get dehydrated. so i continue to drink water. i notice that whenever i have a contrax, i always have to go pee. i wonder if one causes the other. how are your contrax these days?
last time i went in we could see the cerclage on u/s- mostly i could see the knots where they tied them off ( i'm double stitched). i've started wondering about removal - i sure hope that we get it out in time. i don't want any damage to my cervix. i also read a thread somwhere from a woman who said her removal was awful - the knot got stuck and she bled.... but i also know that usually it is a pretty simple procedure.
i'm also hoping these stitches hold b/c my babes are big too! i'm feeling a bit of relief though that i'm getting out of the twenties. at least now their chances of survival are really high and after 32 weeks the risk of long-term bad effects goes way down.
the heartburn saga continues. i'm just trying to deal with it.
let's keep on truckin' ladies!!
mytwingirls - glad you have your mother's help. my mom came a while back and it was really nice...
i hope hopenfaith is ok... where has she been?

[twoinoven]

How did your bird turnout? Meals on wheels was pretty skimpy with the turkey today. My friend is cooking one tomorrow for us, we got it from the share program. Another single mom friend brought me a plate of leftovers from her mom's too. I missed that 'turkey nap' today!
I watched Legally Blonde 2 and Bridget Jones's Diary. My friend came over to do some chores while her kids and I watched my favorite martian and miracle on 34th street.
My doctor told me that if I started to dilate, I would know because the cerclage would bleed a little, so I would spot. I swear I am paranoid every time I go potty, but so far so good.
I too have heard both sides of cerclage removal, that it hurts, and that it's not so bad. I hope it's not so bad!
I took the prescription pepcid today for heartburn, so far I have had none, afraid to get too hopeful yet!
Is it me, or are you getting bigger by the end of the day too?

[mytwingirls]

Good morning ladies,

just came back from my OB and things are looking OK. I was not dialating. We didn't have an u/s today. It's scheduled for this coming Monday with our perinatologist. I had my glucose test today...wish me luck, please. I really don't want to go back and sit at his office for 3 hours for a long test. My belly measure 34weeks...6 weeks ahead and I gained 5,5lb in two weeks:):) It will just go up and up from now on.

My mom is gone :( but she is coming back tomorrow again. SHe lives here in St Louis and comes at least once/week, so is my sister who goes to college. I have so many leftovers...good thing I don't to worry about lunch today. I must tell you I was so tired yesterday. Having my family here and just from talking to them. Plus, I was all the time on the couch and not in my bed. That was nice for a while. When everyone left yesterday, I came to my bedroom to watch tv, it felt like I haven't been here for a month. It was nice to have that change.

To be honest with you, I don't even think about cerclage removal. "IF" I get to that point, it will be wonderful because that would be full term for my babies and that's all I'm concerned about. To make it that far. Friend of mine is due today and she is freaking out about the labor. I don't know if something is wrong with me, but I don't think about it at all.

Brajohn...same thing with going to the bathroom here. I go all the time too. I try not to drink after 9PM. That way I can empty my bladder and don't have to go million times a night.

Twoinonven...my peri said the same thing about dialating. He said as long as I am not spotting/bleeding, contracting a lot, everything is ok. He said that the stitches usually hold, but the cervix doesn't. And, if it starts opening we would definitely know...it would start bleeding. EVERYTIME I go to the bathroom, I have a "TP check". Just to make sure:) everything is ok. Worries never stop, do they???

I am a little confused with weeks/months measurements. Since our due date is 2-4 weeks before the regular 40 weeks, how do you say how many months we are pregnant. I am 28 weeks now...is that full 6 or 7 months?

[HopeNFaith]

Hi Everyone, thanks for being concerned about me.

I'm in the hospital. The day after my ultrasound (which showed no change) I started having some serious contractions. Went back to the doctors and they admitted me to the hospital and I've been here since. I was dialating and going into preterm labor.

They gave me mag sulfate to stop the contractions. It worked but caused my lungs to retain some fluid and I got short of breath. So they took me off of it and just stuck with IV fluids. So far the contractions have stayed away. Just have them occasionally.

They gave me the steriod shots right away. I had one the first day and then a second the next day. Glad to have that now anyway.

The neonatologist came in and explained to me and my husband what could happen if the boys were born right then. They'd have an 85% chance of survival. But then he ran down the possible complications which was scary.

Everyone keeps telling me if I can at least hang in there til 28 weeks (which will be monday) they'll be so much better off. I'm trying.

This has been really hard. I'm on strict bedrest...no bathroom. First I had a catheter. Then they took it out and I tried the bedpan, but couldn't go enough and started to have serious pain from my overfull bladder. Then they put the catheter back in but it was so uncomfortable they took it out again last night. Back on the bedpan and praying I can make it work this time. They can't keep putting it in and taking it out. Too much risk for infection. The things we take for granted!

I've been up and down while here. Mostly down because it seems like it's one problem or discomfort after another. If only I could sleep!

They say I will probably be here unitl I deliver. So it could be weeks. I don't know how I'll manage. It's only been six days and it's already been so hard. Sometimes I wish the babies could just be born already, but then I feel so guilty because I know it wouldn't be good for them.

So that's my story. I won't be able to write much online. Just when my husband comes and brings the laptop. I can't see him leaving it here. I can't really set it up and connect it by myself and I hate to bother the nurses with this. I've already bugged them so much about the catheter and stuff.

It's really hard to be so dependent on other people for EVERYTHING! I can't just eat when I want or wash when I want or whatever. Frustrating no end.

So I'll try to check back in with you all when I get online again which I'm not sure when that will be. I hope you are all doing well. I've missed getting online and checking in with everyone.

[twoinoven]

Melisa, I think it's full 7 months. Congratulations on hitting the 28 week mark, I know I breathed the first sigh then. You are lucky to have family so close to help out. Sounds like you had a fun
Thanksgiving too! ps, I do the TP check every time too!

Maria, I just saw your post, Thank God you are okay! I was thinking that was probably where you were. I will continue to pray for you all. We've all been worried about you.
I've had mag sulfate before, its a wonder drug, but boy it made me feel awful. That's a hard thing to be stuck in the hospital, I have had a hard time just with one night. I know what you mean about not bothering the nurses, but really, you must, they don't mind at all. At my hospital they always keep the door closed, I feel cut off from everything. It's very isolating. If you feel comfortable, let us have your phone number there, I know I would love to call and chat, after all, I am in bed all day too, and several people have given me phone cards. I've often wondered about bringing the laptop in with me, I think you could just take the plug out of the phone and put it in the laptop, but then of course you would worry about it getting stolen. But if we had your number we could still keep in touch with you and hopefully ease the boredom and cheer you up? I would love to!
Ask the doctor about Ambien for sleep, it's what they give me when I'm in and it works. Also, I had a friend bring in snacks that the nurses kept in the fridge for me so I had high protein munchies handy (well, as handy as could be) but things that don't need refridgeration could be where you could reach them.
I can only imagine how hard it must be for you, but hang in there sweetie, it's only temporary, do it for the boys! It's probably the hardest thing you will ever have to do for them.

[Cheri]

I hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving yesterday!

HopeNFaith- I am soooooo sorry to hear you're in the hospital! I completely understand how difficult it is-I was hospitalized with preterm labor for 2 months with my first pregnancy and on Mag and terb the whole time. It can be very isolating and difficult at times, but please hang in there and know that my thoughts and prayers are with you. I encourage you to ASK for what you need from the nurses and Dr.'s. I realize that you probably feel like you're bugging them all the time, but you know what? They want you to ask and will be happy to help with whatever you need. I'm a nurse and believe me, if you were my patient I would want to help you with anything you needed. Sorry about the catheter/bedpan issues-it can be really hard, but hopefully you'll just be able to use the bedpan and not have to be catheterized anymore. I'm glad that you're off the Mag and that the contractions have slowed a bit. Don't feel guilty about having thoughts of wanting to deliver to get out of there and relieve your misery-I had the same thoughts and even recently with this pregnancy. It's perfectly normal to feel this way sometimes, but of course, we both know that the best thing is to hold out as long as possible. You're almost to 28 weeks, which is great! Shoot for 30 and you'll make it there, too!
If you want to give out your hospital phone number/room# I'd be happy to call you! Hang in there.

Brajohn-you're almost to 30 weeks as well-yeah! I'm glad your glucose tolerance test went well. Heartburn-yuck! But, soon it will be a distant memory (believe it or not). I understand most cerclage removals go smoothly, so my guess is that yours will too. Easy to be concerned, but hopefully all will be ok and considering what you've been through so far-it will be minimal.

Mytwingirls-Good luck with the results of your glucose tolerance test. Glad everything is ok so far. Sounds like you have good family support from your mom and sister at least. It sure helps having company for diversion. I agree that changes are nice-even if it's just going from bed to couch and having more company around at times. It breaks up the monotony of bedrest.

twoinoven-Hopefully your turkey will be better today than yesterday! What a disappointment, sorry about that. I hope the pepcid works better for you. I love Bridget Jone's Diary movie-it was great. I'm looking forward to the sequel-I read the book. To be honest I haven't watched to many movies since bedrest-usually just TV in the evening after my son goes to bed.

My parents, nephew and a friend were here for Thanksgiving. We purposefully kept it small, but turned out great. I'm looking forward to leftovers today. As it was, I still was probably up and around too much, but I felt like I just needed to walk a bit and stretch. My knees and legs feel like rubber these days from all the inactivity-18 weeks worth now! Everyone left last night and my mom will be back on Sunday-she needed to take care of things at home before she comes back again. Poor thing-she's working so hard to help us here. My DH and friend are helping the next couple of days. Heartburn is setting in for me again-seems like it's been intermittent for awhile, but more frequent now. Given what I hear from each of you, sounds like I'm probably at the point of it only getting worse. I see my Dr. on Monday-so will ask for an RX since Tums rarely helps. I'm also getting bigger and finding it harder to breathe. Girls are very active and I'm getting kicked at each end. It just hit me today that each of you are further along than me (except Kjinlady and I are about the same). Wow, I hope you guys all hang in there for a long time-as it's motivating for me.

This is already really long-so I'll check in later.

[twoinoven]

Cheri, I usually don't watch ANY TV, we don't even have cable, but I've watched enough on bedrest alright! I can't stand prime time shows for the most part, so it's been mostly movies and the occasional Dr. Phil and Oprah. Oh, and PBS cartoons in the morning with my son. Oh, my turkey today turned out good. The prescription pepcid seems to really help with the heartburn, although I have still needed to chew some tums. It's been funny today, I've been laying here watching them both kick from the outside! I can see my shirt jump around, really cool.

Maria, I forgot to ask about your cerclage, do you still have it? We have been discussing what happens if you dilate and were told by docs that it would bleed. Did yours? Did they take it out? How far did you dilate?

[mytwingirls]

OMG Maria...I am so sorry. I now how you feel. BUT, you are in a safe place now and they will take a good care of you and your babies. Don't feel bad about having any kind of feelings. It's not easy. Just remember, you are doing the most important job in your life and you are doing great!!! I wish you have your laptop with you. We would e-mail you all the time. Twoinoven asked same question I wanted to ask. We were discussing it here about dialating and cerclage. Did you know that you were dialating? Did you bleed?
Please try not to worry. I can't wait for your next update.

Twoinoven...I am so glad that your turkey turned out good today. Is your son back from his dad?

Cheri...for the past two days, my knees have been hurting too. They just feel so week. It's the combination of inactivity and all the weight I've gained so far (almost 30 lb:)) I can't even imagine loosing all this weight and fit into my shoes again:) It will be nice.

Wish you all a calm evening.

[twoinoven]

Melisa, My son got dropped of at 6:30 am on his dad's way to work. ( I know, earlyyyyy). I ate a whole bowl of white meat today and didn't get to take a turkey nap! Now I am babysitting for my single mom friends son, he is 4, he and my son are watching movies and playing nicely. She had a date and her babysitter bailed on her. At least my house is small and they are in the living room with me. Being very good. I am able to stay down.
So it is a pretty calm evening. Forgot to take my procardia at 6 and had a couple contrax until I remembered and took it. They are gone.

[Cheri]

Twoinoven & Mytwingirls- Hopefully HopeNFaith can get back to the board to answer your question with her experience, but thought I'd share my preterm labor experience with you guys since you're concerned about the whole cerclage thing.
I had a cerclage placed at 22 weeks with my son and at 27 weeks went into preterm labor. I knew because I had severe back pain, increased contractions (both frequency and strength) and the final thing that got me to call the Dr. was that I had an acute onset of moderate bleeding (1 pad or so). When I got to the hospital my cervix was checked and my cerclage was still intact, but my cervix had softened. The reason for the bleeding was because I had been contracting so hard against the cervix (which was softening) that the fragile tissue began to bleed. I didn't have anymore cervical checks after the initial admission because these checks have the potential to stimulate more uterine activity and we wanted mine to stop. Fortunately, all the mag, terb, indocin, fluids, etc... helped to stop my labor. I never completely stopped contracting, but usually it was under 4/hour for the 2 months I was hospitalized. I didn't get to experience having my cerclage removed the normal way because I had a full placental abruption which surprised us all and my son was emergently delivered by c-section. I was under general anesthesia-so missed it all, as did my DH :(

[twoinoven]

Thanks for sharing your experience Cheri, I am sorry you had to have an emergency csection, but am glad it all turned out okay.
So you were delivered at 35 weeks? Did the babies have to spend time in NICU? I guess I am just getting curious about delivery etc because I am laying here with nothing but time! If it's not one thing (like worrying about being less than 28 weeks) then it's another (like cerclage removal...).
That must have been scary to have an abruption, I guess they can take them really fast when they have to huh? Were you already in labor or did it just happen?

[brajohn1]

okay i'm totally frustrated b/c i just wrote a long post and then lost it. ugh!!
anyway, hopeinfaith, we are praying for you. how are the contrax going? the bedpan/catheter issue? are you okay? i hope you'll get to use the laptop again soon. we are all thinking of you.
cheri i know what you mean about overdoing it on thanksgiving. i think i did too. we have hardwood floors so i rolled around in a chair and made the stuffing, then i ate at the table with everyone... probably walked around too much. late that night i felt a soreness down low, so i got back in bed. it seems to have subsided now...
thanks for sharing about your cerclage/labor with your first preg. i have been monitoring myself closely for any bleeding. i don't know about you guys, but i have a double stitch and they tacked up my bladder. so i worry about it ripping when i go into labor.. (always something to worry about). i'm still having occasional contrax, but so far no back pain or other signs of preterm labor. i go back to the docs on thursday and i'm curious to see what my cervix is doing. last time it was funneling to the stitch.
well i've made it to 30 weeks! my first big goal achieved. next is 32 weeks.
we had a good friend come over last night and he photographed my belly ... the pictures turned out so nice. i'm so glad to have them for the future. i cannot believe how HUGE my belly is. i've gained at least 40 pounds...
well, hubby is calling. will write more again soon. take care everyone!!!

[HopeNFaith]

Hi everyone,

Thanks so much for your thoughts and support. It really means a lot to me.

I'm doing ok right now. I'm off the catheter and bedpan. They put a little comode next to my bed and I use that. So much easier and less stressful! The things we take for granted.

Last night though I started to contract again. They monitored me and considered putting me on drugs but were hesitant because I developed mild pulminary edema on the mag sulfate. They did a physical check of my cervix and it didn't seem to be dialating from the contractions...no bleeding or anything either. So they just continued to monitor me. The contractions finally slowed and stopped around 10 this morning. I've felt an occasionally one here and there through out the day. Hopefully, that's all I'll continue to feel.

I haven't had any bleeding what-so-ever. And the cerclage is still there. I want to just stay status-quo for a while here. I can handle being here if things would just kind of quiet down for me.

And don't worry. I do ask the nurses for things. I do it cause I know I have to for the babies sake, but I just feel bad about it sometimes. They've been really great though.

I'm in a private room now which is good too since I have the little comode and I'll be here a while. For now I have the laptop, but will make my hubby take it home during the week so I don't have to worry about it.

One thing that makes me feel somewhat reassured is that my boys seem to be strong. They've been growning well from the beginning and always have good heartrates. And boy do they move ALL the time! So I feel confident that they will tough little fighters if something should happen.

Well, gonna run for now, but will continue to check in as often as I can. Hope you are all doing well yourselves!

[Cheri]

Good morning!

HopeNFaith-I'm glad to hear you're doing a little better. Having a private room and being able to use the commode will improve things for you. Yes, the little things matter a lot under your circumstances. Happy to hear you didn't have to go back on mag-that Pulmonary Edema is a big concern with it and it's nothing to mess around with. I keep praying for you and your babies-they are going to do well with you as their mom. Just hang in there a bit longer. My Dr. has told me with each pregnancy...just make it to 30 weeks-after that every day is a bonus. Stay strong and keep in touch!

Brajohn1-I've discovered that the site automatically logs you off if you take too much time to write a reply, so sometimes when you hit submit it seems that you've lost the post, but what I do is hit my "back" button and it takes me back to what I've written. Then I just copy it, log in again and then instead of having to write everything over, I just paste again. Try that next time.
Anyway-congratulations on 30 weeks! What a milestone-I'm looking forward to hitting that mark myself (5 more weeks).

Twoinoven-My son was delivered at 33.5 weeks (the 2 months included recovery). Yes, it was scary because it happened so quickly and without warning. There had been no problems with my placenta on previous ultrasounds. Basically, I was feeling fine until about 1 hour before the abruption when I spiked a fever and began to feel like I had the flu. I had blood work drawn and very soon after I began hemorrhaging and immediately had back pain. I was rushed to the OR and had a whole team of Dr.'s, Nurses, etc....for the delivery. Fortunately, my son turned out ok, but he did spend 1 month in the NICU. He was too premature to feed and maintain his own body temp., plus jaundice. I was lucky that I was in the hospital, because if I hadn't been we both may not have made it-abruptions are pretty rare, but definitely an obstetrical emergency. I'm praying that this doesn't happen again, though I'm at increased risk for it.
Believe it or not 3 weeks after I was discharged from the hospital I had appendicitis and had to have surgery again! What bad luck. Guess I don't have to worry about that this time. I'm usually a very healthy person, but somehow pregnancy just doesn't agree with me.....crazy.

Cheri
http://www.babiesonline.com/babies/c/casaanthony
password: familysoliz

[twoinoven]

Cheri, Your son is adorable!
Thanks for the rundown on your placental abruption. I still have my appendix so I hope it doesn't get any ideas with all these babies pressuring it for this long!

Has anyone found any good books for big brothers to be? I found one on bedrest called "And Mommy's on Her Side" but it is out of print. I found a used copy through Amazon.com but it is priced at $191.10! I emailed the seller to find out if that is a mistake, it must be! I am looking online to find a 'big brother' tshirt for him.

Trying to plan in advance for him to feel special too, I know it will be alot to adjust to. Especially with being a single mom, he has never had to share mommy before. The brief time current husband lived here he (husband) reacted very badly to my son being a little jealous. My son was acting more mature than my husband.

[brajohn1]

hi everyone...
well we have made it to december!! that is good!
twoinoven - don't know of any big brother books, but would be interested in reading one. we spend a lot of time with my stepson and he is used to getting a lot of attention from us... he is very excited about the babies - i hope he will continue to be excited when they are here and we don't have time to play monopoly or throw a ball with him...
i'm still hanging in there with the heartburn. today i was taking a nap and was awakened when acid shot up into my mouth (sorry so gross). i had to sit up immediately and eventually it subsided.
are any of you swelling? i've noticed my wedding ring is tighter than it used to be. a girlfriend has to wear tights to stop the swelling in her feet... so far my feet and ankles are ok.

i go to the docs on thurs. i'm very curious to see what the cervix is doing - it will be 2 weeks since i've gone. i'm definitely feeling more pressure these days and i have a feeling i've gained more weight (yikes).
do any of you think about the "what ifs" - for example, what if i go into labor before 36 and still have the cerclage... what if they don't have time to get it out and i damage my cervix? do you think this is likely? have you ever heard of this?
hope everyone is doing well. look forward to hearing from you all.

[mytwingirls]

Hi ladies,

worried never stop! I had my u/s today and my cerclage is holding tight and there was no change since the last time we went. BUT, my smaller baby is even more smaller now. The weight difference is getting bigger. One is 3lb2oz and the other 2lb2oz. I am 28w2d today. So, there is already one pound difference in between the two of them. The bigger baby measures one week ahead..she measured 29w3d!!! And the smaller barely 27w! We chacked everything today: fluid level, blood flows, we did NST and everything was as it should be. Her (smaller one) heart beat is the same as her sisters. So, I don't know what to think anymore. From now on, I have to go to the office to have NST performed twice a week. As long as that is OK, there is not much we can do. If they see that the smaller baby is under some kind of stress, I will have to be hospitalized for the rest of this pregnancy!!! I just want her to be healthy...I hope she will be.

Glad to hear that Maria is doing great and her cerclage/contractions is under control. Keep up the good work mom!!!

Twoinoven...I hope the price you saw was a huge mistake. I am sure it was. I can't imagine a book like that, being so expensive.

Brajohn...I think I am so concentrate on my cerclage holding and now my babies weights, that I don't even think about labor, removing cerclage and things like that. I think that if we go in labor before, they would have planty of time to remove the stitches. I hope so:)

Got to go now ladies...wish you all a good evening.

[brajohn1]

maria - hang in there on the weight thing and remember that those measurements are not the most accurate in the world. sounds like everything else is going really well. i go for all the measurements on thursday, i'm really curious because both my babes measured big last time.
are you funneling to the stitch? are we all funneling to the stitch now? (i can't remember).
i understand what you mean about not even thinking about labor... i only started thinking about it when i hit 30 weeks the other day. plus, my belly is getting so big i can't imagine how i can manage it getting even bigger!

gotta run...

[brajohn1]

i meant to write melisa, not maria, on the last message. oops!

[twoinoven]

brajohn, all I do is think about what if's. the main one is what if the procardia stops working? (and twenty others...)
I think we are all funneling to the stitch now. Aren't we? I haven't found a good book yet, I keep searching the library so to avoid buying new ones, but may resort to that.
mytwingirls, if its not one thing it's another! hopefully it is just a discrepancy on the ultrasound. I have heard those measurements aren't accurate. I still haven't heard back on the price of that book!:eek:
gotta go pull my dinner out of the microwave. my son is at his dad's overnight.
Are you decorating for Christmas? I am thinking of having someone pick me up one of those wire spiral christmas trees with lights (about 11 bucks) to put in the living room. Then next year we can use it outside when we get our usual real tree. (but then we'll have to worry about babies pulling things from it won't we?!);)

[brajohn1]

hi again...
so much to worry about with a twin pregnancy! i'm just trying to hang in there. i can't wait for 32 weeks - i'll feel a little more at ease then.
my newest worry is that i don't seem to feel baby b as much as baby a. baby a is a wild thing - i feel her all the time and not just little kicks, i feel whole body parts thrashing into my side. i feel baby b, but just not as intensely or as frequently. is this normal?

twoinoven - we decorated for christmas over the weekend.. i lay on the couch and told hubby what to do. we got the fake tree up (i like real ones, but it was just too much this year to go out and get one) and put out some decorations. i instructed hubby and stepson on how to put up the lights, etc... from the couch. it was actually fun, but hubby was tired by the end of it.
our next project is getting the nursery together. turns out my stepdaughter is going to take the downstairs room and we agreed to paint it and let her get a new comforter (more girlie looking). i think she is okay with it now.

gotta run (oh, i mean "gotta lay") ha

[twoinoven]

Glad your stepdaughter is settled. The new comforter should be a nice transitional thing!
I felt baby B much more than baby A until about a month ago. A was apparantly facing either baby B or his placenta and I couldn't feel him as much. I was getting paranoid about something being wrong with him. But he turned and now is kicking outwards instead of his sister! Now I see him through my belly all the time, both equally active.
Do you ever worry about laying on one side more than the other, and 'squishing' one baby all the time?

[Cheri]

Good morning!

Brajohn1-I'm happy your stepdaughter's room will work out, too.l I haven't been too worried about the cerclage and labor, though I was with my first pregnancy. I remember when I was rushed to the operating room telling them "I have a cerclage that needs to be removed" (it wasn't my regular OB performing the c-section). I think I'm not concerned this time because I've realized that the course of pregnancy can be so unpredictable, it's really not worth worrying-a lot of energy spent for nothing. After all, you may go until 40 weeks, have it removed and deliver fine...or you may go into premature labor and have a c-section, etc.... so many scenarios you'll drive yourself nuts worrying about it. If it helps, I didn't have any cervical damage even with my abruption (huge vaginal blood loss and pain).
Regarding your swelling-my wedding ring was a little tight the other day, too-so I took it off before I developed more swelling. None in my legs or feet though.

Twoinoven- Someone recently mentioned that they got my son the big brother book for Christmas, but I'm racking my brain trying to think who it was! I'll try to find out and let you know. I'm sure the price you saw was wrong. As far as decorating, I'll probably have my DH and mom do it, but because my son is 21 months we're waiting. He'll want to get into everything, so the longer we wait, the better. We still have a pumpkin sitting on the front porch! Guess it's time to toss it out.

Mytwingirls-I'm sorry to hear about your babies and the weight discrepancies. It does sound good though that the smallest is at least over 2 lbs. I'll pray for you that things go well. Keep us posted.

I went to my Dr. yesterday and this was the first appt. where I haven't had a cervical check. (probably good since it tends to stimulate contractions anyway). He wants me to start on the terbutaline pump instead of the pills since they're not doing much to slow down my contractions. Also, I'll have home monitoring for my contractions. They're going to get all the insurance approval and hopefully I'll have it this week. He also wanted me to take the terb every 3 hours around the clock until I get the pump (I'd been skipping my night doses unless I woke up with contractions). Last night I didn't sleep well, partly due to the terb and partly due to being uncomfortable with my belly and heartburn. All the problems most of you have been experiencing are hitting me hard now. Hopefully I can take a good nap today.

[HopeNFaith]

Hi everyone,

Believe it or not, my two baby boys are here. They were born via c-section Sunday morning at 9:50 and 9:51. So far they are okay.

I had more contractions Friday night and they just monitored me. The contrax didn't seem to be effecting my cervix so they didn't want to give me more drugs after the whole pulminary edema thing from the first time. Eventually, the contractions stopped on their own.

They next night they started up again. Only this time I started to dialate more. They put me on terbutiline and something else, but neither helped. So they decided they needed to do the c-section. Didn't want to risk damaging my cervix with the cerclage still in and it didn't seem like there was any stopping the labor.

The c-section itself went well. I was amazingly calm. Hubby was right there with me. Babies came out both breathing on their own, but it was labored breath. They are on vents now.

Recovering from the c-section has been harder than the actual operation. Definitely need the pain meds to keep from hurting.

The babies, Michael and Cole, are both in the NICU. So far they are doing ok. They've had a few problems, but I was told nothing too serious for right now and pretty typical of babies born at this stage. We are now waiting for results from the brain ultra sound to see if there's any bleeding there. Very scarey.

I feel so helpless sometimes because there's nothing I can do. Can't hold them or feed them or anything. Can only go down to NICU and talk to them, touch them through the portholes. I'm trying to pump so when they are ready to get real food they'll have my milk. Right now they get vitamins and fat through IVs.

They were both 2 lbs and about 13 inches long. They are perfect in everyway except for being early, etc. They have the cutest little fingers and toes and everything! I'm dying to hold them and even just to hear them cry.

I will be going home Thursday. The boys will probably be here until January at least. I don't care how long they are here as long as they come home healthy.

I will try to touch base with you all a little later on. I hope you are all holding on and can make it much further than I did. I need to end now...too many emotions and thoughts for me to put down here now.

But thank you all for your support and prayers. I'll keep you posted on our progress.

[twoinoven]

Maria,
I am glad everything seems to be okay with the boys. I know when I went in the neonatologist said that at 28 weeks there was excellent chance of no long term problems. I will continue to pray for you all. How many weeks were you? Did they remove the cerclage when they did the csection?
Cheri, I feel for you, you have to get up every three hours to take terb? And that stuff makes you jittery right? Yikes, I'll bet you can't wait to get the pump.
I had my cervical ultrasound today. It is still funneling to the cerclage, and it measures 2.0 long, last week in the office it was 1.97 so about the same.
I am eating my words about hip pain now, I was bragging about how my mattress was so good I didn't have any. Well, now I do, I felt like I could hardly walk when I came back from doctors. I see the midwives on Thursday. The prescription Pepcid has really started working on the heartburn now. What a relief that is.

[brajohn1]

Hopeinfaith - i am praying for you... i am also thinking of you and your babies. i'm so glad to hear that they are ok so far. i've heard lots of stories of women delivering at 28 weeks and the babies make it just fine. hang in there... you are all in god's hands and you will be ok. i know it must be so emotional for you. has your milk come in? how is the pain from the c-section? please keep us posted when you can. llet us know about the brain scans... i'm really rooting for you and your babies....

cheri- so you are going on the pump? i've read about alot of women who've been on the pump and i think it is quite effective. when i was in the hospital with contractions, the mag sulfate wasn't all that effective for me. the only thing that worked pretty well was terb shots. they said i have an incredibly irritable uterus. so i'm hoping i'll make it far enough where i won't have to be put on drugs again, because i don't think they are that effective for me.
i had another bout of heartburn this morning. thought i was going to throw up. i had a glass of cranberry juice and i guess that set me off... i hope it doesn't get any worse, don't think i can take it. i have to sit up when i get it, that seems to give me relief. don't know how i'm supposed to stay horizontal with this heartburn.

i'm trying to do some online shopping for christmas, but it is hard. i think some people are just going to have to understand that their gifts are going to be impersonal this year (if they get one at all !)
anyway, better run. hope everyone is well.

[Cheri]

HopeNFaith-I was just thinking about you and logged on to find your post. I'll be praying for Michael and Cole. You must be full of emotions at this point-it's so difficult to see them in the NICU, full of tubes, etc.... But, they are incredibly strong and have such a good ability to come through everything. You will be able to hold them and nurse them sometime soon. Keep pumping because it's worth it and so wonderful when they can finally nurse.
I hope you are recovering well from your c-section-definitely takes its toll and is painful for awhile. Please write when you can and let us know how you and the babies are doing.

Twoinoven-sorry your mattress isn't doing the trick anymore. Sounds like your cervix is holding :) I started on the Pepcid too and it works pretty well for me also. Yes, the terb makes me jittery, though I've taken it for so long now that it's not as bad as it first was. Every 3 hours is hard, so the pump will be much easier.

Brajohn1-Yep, the terb pump for me sometime this week. I was on it with my son and it was more effective than the pills, at least for a month or so. Mag works the best for me, but of course makes you feel the worst and requires hospitalization-so hoping to avoid that this time around. What are you taking for heartburn? Seems like it's a problem for most of us now-as you can see Pepcid AC is working for twoinoven and myself. I know what you mean about trying to lay horizontal with the burning-doesn't mix too well.

I've been contracting more today even with the extra terb, but I was up more than I should've been. I'll try to stay put for the remainder of the night and hope things improve. Somedays I just need to get up and stretch my legs/back a bit-I'm sure you guys understand this.
tomorrow I'll aim for online holiday shopping-ordered my christmas cards today (photo ones).

[twoinoven]

Well here I am awake since a potty trip at 4am. Then the babies were so active I couldn't sleep. So I have been checking out toy prices on walmart.com. Just took my Procardia, it's nearly 6. Saying some extra prayers for Michael and Cole and Maria and her husband. I am rambling now... Gonna go try to sleep before procardia starts my heart racing, then it's a lost cause!

[mytwingirls]

Maria...congratulations on your babies!!! I will be thinking about you, your husband and Michael and Cole. They are strong boys, just like their mom...they will be just fine. What are the doctors saying about them? Are they gaining weight? My husband is also sending his best to your family!

Twoinoven...I am also funneling. I have been ever since the cerclage. I don't think it will ever change. I am just praying for no contractions and preterm labor. I am sure that the cerclage will hold til the end...whenever that will be. Hopefully at least 5 more weeks:) One of mine girls is more active than the other too. Or, at least I feel her more. And, it's the smaller one. Maybe, that's why she is smaller. All that in utero exersizing:) She doesn't want to be chubby like her mom:) How is procardia working out for you?

Cheri...for the past two days, I've been contracting more than ever. I was on my feet a lot on Monday after we had my u/s and NST. Maybe that's why. But, I am not sure if it's real contrax. My belly just feels tight, for the most part of the day. What's that supposed to be? I am not sure when to call my OB.

Brajohn...I am also going to do some shopping online. I am sure that everyone understands my situation and won't expect much from us.


I can't wait to hear more from Maria!!!

[twoinoven]

Melisa,
The procardia seems to be working. As I get bigger though, I am noticing what you have, my belly seems tight almost all the time. It is getting harder to tell what's a contraction and what is just my belly getting huge.

[HopeNFaith]

Hi ladies,

Thanks for all your prayers. I really believe they can make a difference.

Here's an update for you...Cole seems to be doing well. Still on the vent and all, but has remained very stable. Michael is struggling some and so I am very worried about him. He's had trouble breathing and had low blood oxygen levels last night. They readjusted some things and he seems to be responding, but they have a different type of ventilator ready just in case, which I guess is supposed to help more. They were going to recheck his blood levels today at noon so I'm going to go down to NICU in a bit to see what the results were.

My recovery is going fine. I'll be discharged tomorrow. I've got mixed feelings about that. Part of me is anxious to go home and be able to sleep in my own bed, etc. But the other half can't bear the thought of leaving the hospital without my boys. We are an hour from the hospital which will make going back and forth difficult, but that's what I'll be doing. At least I know that this is the best NICU around and so a good place for them to be right now.

I'm still pumping and finally got one little drop out of my left breast. I was beginning to worry that I would't be able to get anything even though they told me it could take a few days. Just that one little drop gave me encouragement. Hopefully, I'll start getting a little more each time.

Have any of you pumped/breastfed with previous children? Is it normal for your nipples to look a little white after you're done pumping? I have so many questions about pumping and it's been tough getting hold of the lactation consultant here.

Seems like you are all still hanging in there. Don't over do it especially if you are having those contractions. I'm thinking of you all too and praying for you that you won't go into preterm labor. I would't wish this NICU experience on anyone.

Well, I should go so I can check on my boys again. Take care everyone!

[bgtwinsmake5]

I was discharged beofre my son was able to come home...Luckily since that was my 4th pregnancy and I am very very good freinds with my Dr. He didnt put any driving restrictions on me so I was able to go back and forth to see my son..although it was ony for 3 very long days I was so distraught about bringing ym daughter home and not my son...I moved my mom in to take care of Lauren so I could go back and forth to care for logan...

Also I pumped for them as well...for a month actually..then reality slapped me in the face and I switched to formula! Anyways i took me 3 days to get milk milk in and boy did it come in...I was pumping 82 ounces a day...the lactation specialist couldnt believe it...the first few days or so of the pumping my nipples were white afterwards but then it seemes "they" got used to the pumping.

You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

[twoinoven]

Maria, Prayers are flowing for those precious little ones.'
What kind of breastpump are you using? I have a Medela Pump in Style, but the neonatologist said it would probably take a stronger one, like a Lactina should the babies come early. I feel for you about leaving them in hospital and going home, I can only imagine how hard that will be! In my local twins club one mom said the only plus was it gave her time to rest up for their arrival home, and to really finalize getting ready for them.
My breasts too had white nipples before my milk came in after pumping, but once it did, the whiteness went away. Unless I was nervous or something and couldn't let down.
Sorry you are having trouble with getting the lactation consultant. Try calling local Maternity shops, they usually have business cards, or call the La Leche League. After my son was born, the weekly breastfeeding support group at my hospital was a blessing. After coming home with him proper latch on was a blur and I was doing it wrong. My nipples were getting really sore, the support group had two lactation specialists and quickly got me back on track. I nursed him 3.5 years, I plan to do the same if possible with the twins, It was a great experience!
Hang in there, blessings to you and the boys.

[mytwingirls]

Maria....I keep thinking about your boys, you and dh. It must be hard to leave them at the hospital, but we all want what's the best for our babies, right? Like the bed rest was the best option for a while, for them to be at the NICU is the best option right now. As long as they are doing OK and have no major problems, everything else will be fine too. I can't tell you not to worry...would be same as you. I keep looking here for your updates...can't wait to hear more.

I had my second NST today and babies are doing fine and their fluids look great too. BUT...my bp was 160/100!!!! It has never been that high. The last time we checked my urine (last Friday) it was OK. I hope it still is. Preeclampsia is the just what I need on top of everything else. Has any of you had high bp during pregnancy? My feet are swallen, but they have been for about 9 weeks now. Nothing new. I just don't know what to think anymore. I just want to have uneventfull pregnancy for the rest of this time. Am I asking for too much???


How is everyone else doing today? How far along are we now? I am almost full 29 weeks!!! To be exact 28w5D:):)

[twoinoven]

Melisa,
With my first pregnancy my bp went up at the end. Hopefully it's just a one time thing from maybe too much salt or being stressed? I keep hoping mine doesn't go up. I already have the high protein in my urine.
I spent four hours online this morning and got all my christmas shopping done! Yay! But I need to go, I am getting contractions from being propped up! Plus my meals on wheels just got here, bye for now!

[mytwingirls]

Twoinoven...it's wonderful that you're done with your Christmas shopping. I have not bought one thing yet. I don't know what I am waiting for?! It's only few weeks ahead. Please go and lay down for the rest of the day.

[twoinoven]

Don't worry, I was laying, just propped up on my elbow and pillows. Even that gives me contractions after awhile though!
I did almost all of the shopping on eBay. It's great, you can find literally anything there! Some on Walmart.com for toys, and a book site.
I go to midwives at 3 so I better rest now!

[brajohn1]

hi ladies,
just got back from the docs and all seems to be okay still. the babies are weighing in at 4 lbs apiece!! so they are still a bit on the big side. i'm 31 weeks now, thank you god!
something interesting was that the u/s tech said the babies had changed sides (that is, baby a is now on the right and baby b is now on the left). when i went in to see the doc afterwards he said he thought that was highly unlikely and he thinks the tech got it wrong. have any of your babies switched from left to right? at any rate, both are still head down, so i'm still hoping for a vaginal delivery.
about preeclampsia - my doc said that is his big concern for the end part of the pregnancy. so far i'm okay, but he said blood pressure can spike up at the end, even if you've not had it before. so i'm going in once a week from now on. i have my first NST next week.
my cerclage is still holding and i'm still funneling. thank goodness for those stitches!!
hopeinfaith - i've been thinking about you too. hope you and the babes are doing ok. have you gone home yet? how goes the pumping? keep us posted.
i've been working on the christmas shopping online. i've ordered some things, but still have a ways to go... i have no idea what to get my husband - he is so hard to buy for.
anyway, i better run. will check in later.
brandy

[Cheri]

Hi everyone!

I just crawled back into bed-friends came over today with their kids and brought lunch. It was really nice to have more company and my son loves to be around the other kids. It was like a circus though-running everywhere. I hope my contractions don't kick up too much today because of it. I got my terb pump last night so the medicine is continuous with extra doses automatically given every 4 hours. Hopefully it will work better than the pills. This morning when I monitored and sent it in the nurse told me I had 4 contractions that hour. I'm allowed to have 5 before I have to get any additional boluses and remonitored. Hopefully I'll stay under 5. I also had protein in my urine for the first time yesterday, hopefully it will resolve or at least not get worse. My
BP is fine and I have to check it every day now with the monitoring.
I did almost all my Christmas shopping yesterday-yeah! I sent my mom out today to get a few things that are in the stores nearby. I cut way back this year-people will just have to understand and I'm sure they will.

HopeNFaith-So good to get your update. I've been praying for Cole and Michael. My best wishes for a smooth NICU stay. I know how hard it is to leave the hosp. when you can't take them home. I cried more when my son was in there than when I was hospitalized for 2 months! I remember feeling so helpless and guilty that somehow I didn't carry to term. That was hard, but fortunately the NICU staff took good care of him. About the breastfeeding-I bought the Medela pump and it worked well once my milk came in, but I also rented the hospital grade pump for the first couple of months because it worked so much better and was easier to use at the beginning. It's a workhorse! Also, when I visited my son in the NICU every day they had extra pumps there, so I just brought my tubing , etc.. and pumped while I was there-really convenient. You may want to check that out. Plus, they gave me a full supply of bottles for the milk and I just left it there to give to him. I hope you're getting all the help you need with this-feel free to ask me questions, I'll help if I can.

Brajohn-31 weeks and 4lbs-wow that's great! Congratulations! I don't think they can flip like that-probably just the tech got it wrong. Happy shopping!

Twoinoven- Glad you got most of your shopping done, too. Good luck with your appt. today!

Mytwingirls-yikes on the BP! Are you going in again soon for a recheck? I sure hope you're not going into preeclampsia. And no, it's not asking too much for things to go smoothly from this point on-you've had enough problems to date. I feel the same way sometimes, "can't things just improve for once instead of get worse?"

[twoinoven]

Brandy, Wow, you are growing those babies big! That's great.
I measured 41cm today, and have gained 8 lbs in the last two weeks. My bp was fine and all the urine was negative! I couldn't ask for a better visit.
I don't think the babies can change sides without you knowing, or if at all.
Cheri, Hope that terb pump makes life easier for you. Glad you got your shopping done too. I had alot of fun doing it online, I just hope everything gets here in time and in good shape!

After my appt. my friend took me to test drive a '93 Ford Aerostar van. I really like it, going to have it checked out by my mechanic. Then I have to worry about coming up with $2000!

[kjinlady]

Hi ladies, sorry I haven't posted in a while, I've been very busy and when not busy, just plain tired.

HopeNFaith - My prayers are with you and your babies. We are all anxiously waiting to hear from you. It must be hard to leave your babies at the NICU, but you know they are in excellent hands. How is the pumping going? It takes a few days for your milk to come in, as I'm sure you know by now. And with the stress your under, that can make it more difficult. When you pump, go to a quiet room with a cup of hot tea and play soothing music. And if you can get an outfit or something that smells like the babies, hold it close to you. Those babies need your milk and you need lots of support. Try LaLeche League, they are a great resource and offer lots of help. Also, you might check with the twins club in you area for additional support.

I went to the doctor Monday and ultrasound Wed. Thankfully everything is going well. Cervix is closed, no funneling. I am 26 weeks, babies weigh 1lb 13oz and 1lb 14 oz. According to the perinatologist, that is exactly where they should be. He also mentioned that as long as their weight is within a 1 week range either way (give or take a week) it was not a concern.

I starting having some contractions this week, but nothing too frenquent or regular. Dr. told me what to watch out for and husband won't let me do anything. Poor guy, works all day and then comes home to take care of our 2 1/2 yr old son and me. He's going to be exhausted when this is over.

I am also having terrible hip & upper back pain, it's impossible to sleep at night. My OB told me to use a heating pad, but not on the tummy. It has really helped alot.

Best wishes to all of you.

Carolyn

[HopeNFaith]

Hi Ladies,

Just wanted to give you a quick update...Michael and Cole seem to be doing ok...still on the vents and all, but are holding stable.
I have to wait for my hubby to get home from work to take me up to see them, but I called this morning and they are doing alright for now.

I'm still not having luck with the pumping. I've gotten one little drop on the tip of my nipple that doesn't even dribble off! That's it. It's been six days and I'm still waiting for my milk to come in. Starting to get worried!

Cheri, I did rent the hospital grade pump. And have lots of bottles for freezing my milk. Just wish it would start flowing. I'm trying warm compresses and keeping baby items near me. Don't know if it's helping though.

Babies can't get my milk yet anyway. They are getting vitamins and lipids through an IV. Hopefully, my milk will come in by the time they go to the tube feedings.

You know, it's funny, but just before I ended up in the hospital I was wondering which one of us would deliver first.

Hope you are all hanging in there. I keep reading your updates and am glad that you all seem to be doing well. Remember to take it easy though! Especially with the holidays...everyone is probably getting the urge to do more than maybe they should!

[twoinoven]

Maria,
So glad to hear things are going well for the boys. I have a book I borrowed from my twins club called The Premature Baby Book, I looked up breastfeeding/pumping in there to see if I could find any info for you. All it said was to be persistant. That keeping up the pumping would bring on the milk. It did say that stress makes it tougher (ya think?). Do you have a photo of the babies yet? When I used to pump for my son while I worked, I would have to look at a picture of him for my milk to let down. Hope it gets better for you.
Thanks for the reminder, you are right, at least I know we are all worried about all there is to do for the holidays. I have decided to make a list of stocking stuffers for a friend to pick up for me. I need to take it easy. I was definately getting the urge to 'sneak' in one quick trip! It's so easy after a stable week or two with the contrax and cervix to think it would be okay.

[mytwingirls]

Hi ladies,

I am so happy to hear that Michael and Cole are doing great!!! I would also love to see some pictures...if you have any Maria.

Brandy....your babies are doing wonderful. Those weight sound awesome. What have you been eating girl? :) I have never heard that babies could change positions like that. But, who knows?!

Cheri...how much protein in urin did you have? Was it just a trace or more? I also have a trace of protein, but OB says it's normal, as long as it doesn't increases. I am hoping for that, since my bp is getting out of control too.

Carolyn...seems like you and babies are going wonderful. Those are good weights for 26 weeks. Congratulations mom!!!!

Twoinoven...I hope you can get that van. Let us know what your mechanic said. Have you been in contact with your ex? I hope all that is ok now and you don't have to worry about payments and stuff!


After I came home from my NST yesterday I called my OB's office to ask about high bp. They told me to come in as soon as I can to re-check it. When we went there, it was 155/85...still high. They draw some blod to check for kidney and liver enzymes, and how knows what else. I've also been doing the 24 hour urine collection, then have to go to the lab tomorrow drop it off and have another blood test. Also, they are going to hook me up with the home high bp monitoring system. They are waiting for my insurance company to tell which one they'll approve. They rechecked my urine yesterday and there was just a trace of protein...so, that's still ok.
I am freaking out about pre-e!!! That's the last thing I need right now. Believe it or not, I am not even thinking about my cerclage anymore. I am so worried about pre-e. And worrying is not gonna help with the bp...I know.

Wish me luck with all the testing coming up. I don't want to go
back to hospital...

BTW...full 29 weeks tomorrow!!!

[brajohn1]

hopeinfaith- glad to hear the babies are doing ok. i haven't experienced breast feeding yet, but i hear it is tough at first and you have to be persistent. did you ever get to see the lactation consultant? we are all praying for you and the babies... hang in there and keep us posted.
i know what you all mean about being tempted to do stuff. it gets harder as you get further along - i want to get up and go shopping, but i know that would be a huge mistake. i had a good docs visit yesterday, so i thik in the back of my mind i think i can push it a little more. BUT, i have to remember that the reason why i'm still hanging in there is because i've been staying down. so that usually makes the urge go away.
mytwingirls - i don't know what i've been eating to make the babies big! the doc thinks it is just in my genes.. i was a 10 pounder when i was born. hubby and i wonder if i might be alittle further along than what they are saying. i hope your BP gets under control . my doc talks about it all the time - seems to be a big concern as you get further along. so far i'm okay, but he said it can just spike out of nowhere... you've reached 29 weeks! congrats! only one more week to 30 weeks. you are doing great.
twoinoven - aren't you approaching 31 weeks now?

are you all getting the epidural when you go into labor?

gotta run (i mean, gotta lay)!

[Cheri]

The last 2 nights I've had trouble sleeping well because my terb doses have increased and I wake up out of nowhere and can't sleep for a couple of hours. Last night I balanced my checkbook at 2AM hoping that would make me sleepy again-finally slept again around 4 until 6. I'm now monitoring my contractions for an hour. Yesterday I had to monitor 3 times in the morning because I kept over-contracting (10x/hr; than 6; than 5). I hope it's better this time-should be because my doses went up again.
Anyway, managed to get a lot done in bed during the day yesterday since I couldn't sleep-have all my shopping done now and have even started getting some of the packages :) Also I'll have all the cards mailed out by today. This is probably the earliest I'll have everything done.

HopeNFaith-thinking about michael, cole and you-hoping all is going well :)

Brajohn-I haven't thought too much about the delivery because last time I thought I have a normal vag. delivery and ended up with an emergency c-section. So, at this point I'm aiming for anything above that-I'm definitely an epidural believer and since my DH does them a lot, he thinks it's a good way to go, too and very safe.

Mytwingirls-I'm sorry your BP is still elevated and you have protein-let's hope things don't get any worse. Keep us posted.
My urine showed 1+ (a bit more than trace), but my bp is still fine and no swelling to speak of.

Twoinoven-hope you're doing well today and resting-not out test driving cars! though I don't blame you for sneaking out. I think after 30 weeks I'll feel a bit better about testing the limits a bit more.

Kjinlady-hope your contractions have settled down and your back is feeling better.

[twoinoven]

I've been staying in bed Cheri! The great news is that my Mom is loaning me the money to buy the Ford Aerostar! I am going to get a good tax refund this year so I can pay her back. I am going to have it checked out at my garage Monday, then probably buy it later in the week when the cashier's check gets here. I am going to invest in having it completely detailed, it's not in bad shape, but they had kids, so the carpet and seats need cleaning!
I am going to be 31 weeks next Thursday!
I plan on trying to avoid an epidural if possible. I keep 'argueing' with the docs of this. When I delivered my son, I had an epidural, and in the pushing phase I pushed out a herniated disc in my lower back that had been surgically repaired six years before.
I do not want to do that again! I had to have two surgeries when he was six months old, then six months of physical therapy to be able to walk and work again. Not to mention Medicaid will only cover me until a couple weeks after the babies are born, then I will be in the sea of uninsured again!
My son is at his dad's for the weekend. I have 'The Hours' from the library to watch. Plus I got alot of sleep last night! I missed my naps most of this week! Hope everyone has a nice, quiet weekend!

[mytwingirls]

Hi ladies,

well, I think I am developing "white coat syndrom". After we descovered that my bp was high three days in a row at the OB's office, they hooked me up with the home monitoring system. I will be measuring my bp and protein too at home and call the office with the results. Nurse came this morning and measured my bp and it was 129/75:) I still only have protein trace, which is good. After being on the home rest for 8 weeks now (I can't believe it's been that long), everytime I leave the house I get so tired. I probably get too excited at the dr office, especially now with NST's (I am always expecting someting to happen) and the weight difference in between the girls. All that could elevate my bp. As long as home measurement is below 140/90, I will be fine.
My house is a huge mess! We hired someone to paint to WHOLE house and he started today. It will be nice once it's all done.

Cheri...sometimes I also have trouble sleeping and it's the worst thing. It makes you so tired...good thing we can take a nap whenever we want:)

Hope that everyone is having a wonderful Saturday!

29w today:):)

[Cheri]

Mytwingirls-happy to hear your BP is better at home. A jump in BP definitely happens a lot around hospitals and Dr.'s, which is why we often tell patients don't worry about 1 or 2 readings during a stressful situation. I work in the emergency dept.-imagine all the BP's out of wack there! Anyway, hope things continue to go well.
I know what you mean about feeling tired when you go out-after all the bedrest your muscles lose strength and you have no reserves. I've had a cold for so long now I just can't get rid of it all. Anytime I expend energy my pulse shoots up because I'm so out of shape which is very unusual for me. I was on bedrest a long time with Anthony, too and it took me months to recover. Good thing the babies don't weigh much in their first few months, I can't imagine carrying anything heavy around for long.
I'll bet your house is going to look nice when it's done!

Twoinoven-Congratulations on the minivan! That should help you out a lot. I hope I didn't offend you about the bedrest, I didn't intend to suggest that you hadn't been staying in bed, just didn't want you to get too worn out. Believe me, I'd be the last person to be critical of anyone complying with bedrest-it's very hard for me and I find myself getting up here and there more than I should "just for a minute...." 31 weeks pretty soon, that's great! What are the weights? It sounds like you had a bad experience with an epidural previously and I don't blame you for not wanting another-back surgery is a difficult recovery! Boy, I think I would opt for a C-section because no doubt you'll have a lot of pushing to do with twins. Hope you enjoy your movie and time to yourself the rest of the weekend (what's left anyway).

[mytwingirls]

Twoinoven....congratulations Wish you lots of good trips!
I watched The Hours too. It's a very good movie. Enjoy it! If my babies stay the way they are, I am looking into c-section. Baby A is still breech and baby B is vertex. They still have time to turn, but I don't know if they have a lot of space for that. I am so tired and have very little energy from being in bed for so long, that I don't know how I would push for hours?! I would prefer vaginal delivery, just because of recovery time afterwards.

How is everyone else doing? My bp was 117/72 this morning!!! YEY!!! You have no idea how happy that makes me. I was already thinking that this pregnancy is making me fall apart. Everytime I went to OB lately, they would tell me something else. First cerclage, then the weight difference, then possible pre-e. But, thank God, it's OK. Now, I just need to stay at home for at least 5 more weeks...that would give me 34 weeks. I hope I am not asking for too much.

Forgot to ask you something: does any of you feel like your knees are gonna give up on you? When I have to bend my knees, like when I have to sit down and get up, they hurt kind of bad. Also, my fingers are hurting too. What is that from? I understand about knees from now being active, but why my fingers?

Got to go now..."talk" to you later:)

29w1d :):)

[brajohn1]

hi ladies,

hope everyone is doing well today. i'm on the couch where i plan to stay as long as possible. yesterday some of the people from my childbirth class (all expecting twins) had a get-together and hubby and i decided to go. i really wanted to go to get out of the house (i swear in 12 weeks i've only been out of the house to go to the doctor or to childbirth class - that's it!!!). so off we went and i sat on the couch the whole time, did not get up. but turns out their bathroom was upstairs and of course i had to go like 20 times, so i had to climb the stairs. so anyway, we had a great time- one of the couples had their babies two weeks ago and they brought them for us to see. they were so sweet and so little!! anyway, when we got home i started having contractions. i counted six in one hour, then five, then they began to subside. hubby and i were just about to go to the hospital, but they seemed to get better. this morning they seem to have gone away. yikes!! i guess going out was not a good idea. i'm 31 weeks and want these babies to stay in me for at least another 3 weeks, minimum. so i am going to lay on the couch and not move for as long as i can stand it!!!
mytwingirls - my fingers aren't hurting, but they are definitely swelling. doc told me to take off my wedding rings while i still can. he's seen women who have had to have them cut off because of the swelling. i can just barely get mine off.
twoinoven - the woman who brought her babies to the get-togther wanted an all natural delivery, and she was able to do it. she did not get an epidural and fortunately her babies were delivered vaginally (baby a was head down, baby b was extracted - breech). she said it was really painful, but she got through it. so i know there are cases where women go without and the epidural and do fine. i hope you'll be able to get what you want too!
well ladies have a great day. hope everyone is ok.

[twoinoven]

Cheri, Of course I was not offended! I think we should all be cautioning each other not to overdo it. Who better than someone who knows exactly what we're going through?
mytwingirls, I enjoyed the movie. It was a touch conflsing at first, but kept me on my toes. Congrats on that great blood pressure!
brajohn, Thanks for telling us about the mom who delivered naturally. Now I can relate a story to my doc's about babies that were in the same position. I am hoping I wouldn't have to push as hard as with my son, at least to be in a better position. For over an hour of the pushing time with him, they had me sitting almost upright in the bed. It felt totally ineffective. I am convinced that is why I bulged the disc. This time I am going to be in a different hospital where they are very centered on the mother.

[Cheri]

Good morning!

I've been up since 4AM again-terb can be very unpredictable, but I guess it's training me for the girls :) I already monitored my contractions at 5 AM and only had 1, which was my lowest yet-so that's good. Hopefully I can nap in a few hours when Anthony's nanny arrives. He's playing with my mom right now (he got her up out of bed at 6:30 for breakfast and to play-poor thing she's going to be exhausted when this is all over...)

Brajohn1-sounds like you had some BH contractions after your activity-but it's good they resolved. It's so hard not to do things sometimes, but then that guilt sets in later. Guess we're all just resigned to hanging around the house in bed or on the couch until the end. I took my wedding ring off already because I had a slight bit of swelling and didn't want to take any chances. I've cut rings off of people plenty of times and it's just not worth it.

Has anyone had the flu shot this year? I usually get it from work, but since I've been off I didn't get it. My OB didn't have it and said I'm ok since I'm at home, but I've been thinking about my son and how he has the potential to be exposed, plus visitors-so I think I'll see if I can still get one. I just don't think I have any reserves-can't even get rid of a silly cold I've had for months.

[twoinoven]

Morning Cheri,
I got a flu shot about three or four weeks ago at my ob's office. My son got the first part last week. I was concerned since my main helper brings her six and 12 year old children with her everyday and they go to public school. Also my son has all his exchanges with his dad at Harmony House which has alot of people in and out.
I had a bad day yesterday. I was out of Dairy ease milk and Boost, so I took all my vitamins and meds with a big glass of grapefruit juice. On an empty stomach. BAD IDEA! An hour later I was throwing up until the juice was gone. Then I felt really bad the rest of the day and slept. Anyway, by Six pm I was dehydrated and contracting. Called midwives and she told me to take a warm bath and drink water and if they didnt' go away to come in to L&D. Luckily, they went away after drinking about 36 oz of water and soaking in the tub. It was funny, I had to lay on my side to even get my belly in the water. I have a short tub.
We are getting snow here today, it is so pretty. I had my friend bring the Ford Aerostar into the garage today to get checked out, hope it does good. Then I am going to get it detailed Wednesday. It will be nice and clean for the babies! I will have my friend bring it and the two car seats to the fire dept. and have them install them properly, we'll be all set!

[brajohn1]

good morning ladies...
i actually got about 5 straight hours of sleep last night wthout a potty break! i'm feeling good!!
so far contrax are about like they have been all along, so i'm hoping the increase theh other night was a result of my activity and not a signal of impending labor. i still have a few every day, and it has been that way since i was 20 weeks. i guess that 's just how my body handles this twin pregnancy .
cheri - i did get the flu shot about a month or so ago. i'm glad i got it because it sounds like there is some nasty stuff going around. also i see on the news that they are running out of vaccines. i'd get it if you still can.
i wonder how hopeinfaith and the babies are doing. i hope they are ok.
i'm feeling some pressure down low when i get up (which is not too often these days).. do you ladies have pressure? i don't know how else to describe it - it just feels heavy under my belly (which, by the way, is HUGE)..
well have a good day. i'm going to try and finish up my online christmas shopping.
brandy:)

[Cheri]

Twoinoven-sorry about your bad day-I say definitely toss the grapefruit juice! I hope you're feeling much better today. I soaked in the tub yesterday, too and it was funny to see that my belly didn't even get covered. It felt good though-took pressure off of my back. Your van sounds like it's going to be sparkling by the time the babies arrive! Hope it's not snowing too much for you, just enough to cover and look pretty :) It's actually a beautiful day here in the Bay Area, sun is out and all the leaves have turned. Expecting some rain this week-oh well it doesn't bother me.

Brajohn1-5 straight hours of sleep-yeah! Bet that felt good. Hope the trend continues. I just woke from a nice nap and feel pretty good. Did you ask about knee pain on a previous post? I forgot who did, but I meant to respond earlier and say that I have it too. We've got stairs and I go up/down at times (not too much) and boy do my knees feel it. They're like jello these days from the lack of activity and increase in weight. Is the abdominal pressure you're talking about actually in your abdomen or vagina? Sorry to be so blunt, but I've definitely felt vag. pressure for sometime now and the heavier the girls get, the more I have. It really forces me to stay off my feet though. I wonder about HopeNFaith and her boys, too. I sure hope they are doing well. It's amazing how strong infants are.

I checked with my pediatrician about the flu vacc and they're out of course. I called employee health at work and left a message-hopefully I can get one there as they usually order plenty for the staff. I also called the local health dept. and they're out, too for my son, but gave me another potential referral. I'm not terribly concerned, but would feel better if we both could get it. Hopefully I'll know tomorrow.
Wrapped presents this morning-just waiting for delivery of a few more things. Making great progress. Also sent off all the cards. My mom said "wow, we're so organized around here we'll be able to just bake the next 2 weeks". I hope so! She's been spoiling us with all the cooking and baking....smells so good. Well, my little Anthony will be home soon, so I'll sign off for now and chat more tomorrow

[twoinoven]

Hi everyone,
Today's cervical measurement showed 2.0, same as last week, so I am very happy about that. Getting out for the test, however, is proving more difficult! I was exhausted when I got back. And sore! Gonna go nap now! Hope everyone's having a good day.
The power supply on my borrowed laptop went out and I won't be online as much for the next few days at least. Too uncomfortable to use the old dinosaur!

[kjinlady]

Hi everyone, Hope you are all feeling good today. I had my weekly doctor visit today and everything is going well. BP was really good, gained 4 lbs in the last week and measure 34. I am currently 26 wks. Had the glucose tolerance test, get the results in a few days. I didn't like the fasting part, I get so hungry and nauseated if I can't eat. So I pigged out after it was over, of course then I was uncomfortable from eating too much. Oh well.

I started spotting when I got home from the doctor and got really concerned. They do a pelvic every week due to the cerclage. Doctor said to drink tons of water and if I was still bleeding in an hour, call them back. Thankfully, it stopped and they feel it was probably due to the exam.

I had the flu shot in late October and boy am I glad after hearing how bad the season is already. Hope everyone had the opportunity to get it.

I posted a reply a week ago and was surprised to see that it's not here. Guess I did something wrong.

Hope you all have a restfull night.

Carolyn
Brandon 6/1/01
twin boys due 3/14/01
26 weeks and counting

[Cheri]

Morning everyone!

I was up late last night having to monitor over and over because I had way too many contractions (9; than 10; than 4/hour). I had to get several bolus doses of terb to stop them, but finally it worked. It just seems like the further along I get the more I contract and the harder it is to stop them. Baby movement is good though and so is my bp. I've also noticed it's hard to stay well hydrated the further I go along-I drink tons of water each day, yet urine still not clear. Anyone else have similar problem? I do have protein in it, too.

Twoinoven-glad measurements are good. Hope you get your power supply back so you can get online soon. Take it easy in the meantime.

Kjinlady-At least you're done with the gtt-I'm getting mine in 2 weeks. Sorry about the spotting, that's scary, but can definitely happen after a cervical exam.

I'm getting my flu shot today-yeah! It's awful this year. Hope everyone has a good day.

[brajohn1]

good morning -
i'm feel yucky today and i'm wondering how i'm going to make it to january??? i'm almost 32 weeks. it just gets more and more uncomfortable. my belly is enormous, almost all my weight gain is in the belly. i walk like an old lady (waddle, waddle) and i feel this pressure between my legs and the heartburn is killing me.... i go to the docs tomorrow for the NST and a check up. how can i make the time pass more quickly??? it is hard to just lay on the couch all day long (as you know). my hips ache because i lay on my sides all the time...
okay, i'll stop complaining now!!!
kjinlady - i also didn't enjoy the glucose test. i had the one hour test which came back a little high, so i had to go back in for the three hour fasting test. fortunately it came back normal. when i went in they let me lay down in the NST room while i waited for the next blood draw, so i actually slept through much of the three hours!
cheri- sorry to hear about the contrax. i've noticed a few more contrax than normal lately. i think i already mentioned that on saturday we got nervous because i was contracting so much. do you notice that your contrax come when you have to go pee? when i have one, i go potty and it usually goes right away.
about the pressure, it is down low in my vagina too. i'm going to ask the doc about it tomorrow. i know that it is to be expected as we get bigger, but i'm wondering at what point should i get concerned??
gotta go take a tums... have a great day!

[mytwingirls]

Hi ladies,

I am back. For some reason, I've been busy doing little things in bed. I orginized all of my photo albums, documents and stuff like that. Plus, my hubby is staying home more and more with me, and I love to spend every moment with him. Painting is finally done. It looks wonderful...new and clean. Our cribs also came:) He will put them together this weekend.
I am doing ok. My bp is completely normal...thank God. I was freaking out about that. We've been going to NST's two times/week and babies are doing wonderful. They also check fluids every time and that makes me feel much better. Especially with the weight difference they have.

Carolyn...that must have been scary with spotting. I am so glad that it went away. I heard that it could happen.

Cheri...I either don't have any contractions or if I do, it's more than 5/hour. Water and laying down has helped so far.

Brandy...almost 32 weeks!!!!!!!! Congratulations!!! That is wonderful. I also feel like an old lady. I noticed that I have more contractions when on my feet. I have been more on my feet than 3 weeks ago. But, still only inside the house. I never leave except for dr appointments.

Do you ladies, when you have company, eat at the table or on the couch/chair laying down? I've been more and more at the table. Hope it's not too bad.

Friend of mine sent me this today. Make sure you have the speakers on. Enjoy!
http://www.theinterviewwithgod.com/


I got to go now.

[HopeNFaith]

Hi everyone,
I've been reading your posts and catching up on how you're all doing.

Cheri, hope those contractions stop for you. Believe me, I know that's scarey. Just please call your doc if you get too many in an hour or feel something's not right. When I started having them I just knew that they felt "different" somehow. So glad I went in to the hospital when I did.

I have to ask about the flu shot myself. When I was home on bedrest, I didn't worry about it too much, but now I'm wondering if I should get it. I also worry about exposing the boys to flu and viruses when they do finally get out of the hospital.

Michael and Cole continue to do fairly well. They are both off their bloodpressure meds and no longer need the lights over them. They had the IV's taken out of their little bellybuttons. The big thing is still the breathing...still both on the vents which kills me to see them with the tube down their throats. But Cole was going to start getting some breastmilk through a tube. Michael isn't quite ready for that yet although I'm not sure what makes them ready. I think something about his gas-blood levels.

Have any of you breastfed before? I've been pumping for over a week and am only getting very small amounts of milk at each sitting. It's getting frustrating. Especially since I'm doing everything the lactation consultant advised.

Hope you are hanging in there...I can understand about it starting to get pretty darn uncomfortable as you get further along. Don't think it was every that bad for me while at home, but I made up for it the week I spent in the hospital!

Take care everyone! I'm thinking of you all.