One thing that I always wondered was how a mother can so accurately keep track of their baby’s age in weeks. Even after a year, it is calculated weekly. Well, I have been put under that spell in pregnancy; this is officially where the weeks are so closely watched. Now at 24 weeks, into my 25th week shall we say, I have begun calculating. For the most part, pregnancy has been a kind addition to my daily routine. I have scaled back many activities and I have turned into that cheap date my husband always wished for since I cannot eat many delicacies, fancy cheeses, or drink dirty martinis. My husband seems to be the one suffering from many of pregnancy symptoms: fatigue, irritated sinuses, stomach upsets, bloating, flatulence, enlarged abdomen, moodiness, etc. This doesn’t give much room for any ailments that might creep up on me.

Recently, a friend was in NYC and strolled by a trio of maternity shops (we do not have in Jackson). She waltzed in and picked out a few tops for me. These items are officially my first “maternity” clothes. Excited for new clothes, I slipped one top on and looked in the mirror, aghast. I look pregnant! Up until now, I have been incognito, only close friends and yoga class attendees knew, but if I wear this in public it screams, PREGNANT! Scott looked at me, smiled, and rubbed my belly. Real funny! I immediately took this shirt off and replaced it with a comfy sweatshirt. The fact of the matter is that I like the shirts she got me and will wear them soon.

During the 1st trimester, I was lucky to avoid morning sickness, which may be due to eating at least every couple hours during the day, having a small snack before bed and immediately eating a healthy breakfast upon rising. Even before being pregnant, midnight snacking was not uncommon and has continued, if not just for water. My thirst has increased a ten fold which makes it necessary to eat smaller meals; this reserves room for water.

My ongoing activities include downhill skiing, Nordic skiing, short runs, indoor cycling, weight lifting, and yoga. All are done in moderation, without a heart rate monitor. There are doctors who recommend not going above 140 beats/ minute. Some doctors recommend exercise in your comfort level, keeping close attention to signs of dizziness or shortness of breath. Also, most importantly, stay hydrated and always have water nearby. If you are active before pregnancy, ease into it and see how you feel continuing in moderation your same routine, then go from there. Ignore the crazy looks you may get on the slopes or in the weight room like you are smoking a cigarette; exercise is good for you and your baby.

Nearing my third trimester, I realize that pregnancy has been flying by. Friends have been asking me about throwing a baby shower, when, where, how many, etc. Decisions I cringe at making.

My body changes have been gradual up to now but recently my stomach has popped out and gets significantly bigger every few days. The baby kicks. The skin is taut. My jeans are tight. My back is sore at times. I am slow to stand up and sit down, and cannot walk very fast. I have several creams that I have to use to prevent itching and potential stretch marks. My stomach, bladder, and lungs are compromised; this leads to more bathroom stops, indigestion, smaller meals, and frequent deep breaths.

Viewing birth as a long way off, we are now talking more about expectations, doctors, midwifes, doulas. As of now, we have an obstetrician who works closely with a midwife and frequently asks for midwife advice from her. After an intense interview with a midwife, we decided to stay with our obstetrician who has midwife intentions and was my doctor before pregnancy. Scott likes her too. I am seriously considering a doula and hope for a natural birth. If you are in the process of making birthing decisions, natural or not, I highly recommend the movie “The Business of Being Born” by Ricki Lake.

I won’t bore you with more pregnancy stories, but if you have questions or suggestions about any of the above, please contact me lauri@womenspecific.com . I am by no means an expert, but can try to help AND would like to hear your stories.