Are You Having a Girl?

Posted on January 22, 2014 by playinghousewi

Is it a boy or a girl?

Today I went to the chiropractor to battle some of my pregnancy aches and pains. I used to have back issues in high school, and literally have not been there since. My last appointment before today was in 2010.

Anyway, my doctor was chipper and sweet as ever and was just so much fun to catch up with. Before I jumped on the table, she said, “do you mind?” as she put her hand on my belly. She pulled her hand away quickly and said, “Oooo! Are you having a girl?”

I lit up a bit and explained that we didn’t know yet and she went on to say, “I bet it’s a girl. I just have a feeling.”

It’s interesting, I’ve had a lot of people with “a feeling” that it’s a girl. Is it the way I’m carrying? Or the fact that I’m pretty darn girly? Maybe I smell differently?

I know I’m supposed to be living in the moment and enjoying today, but it’s snowing AGAIN and it’s 4 degrees. I’m just over today. I want three weeks from today. Then I will have seen my sweet baby’s face and will know if all these feelings (and the quiz my friend at work and I took the other day) are correct in saying it’s a girl.

In other news, my chiropractor gave me a tip… she said to keep things aligned and growing in a balanced way, do a full circle hula hoop motion twice in each direction right before (or after) you use the bathroom. Note: there is no relation to going to the bathroom except that you will likely be going frequently and it’s a good way to remember to do it. It’s supposed to help with delivery and recovery. And, if not, it’s easy enough that it won’t be a big deal either way.

Toilet hula hooping it is!

Natural Remedies to Battle the “Ick”

Posted on January 21, 2014 by playinghousewi

Goodbye illness!

I’ve been feeling sick since Friday morning. It’s frustrating because I feel as if every single day is the same. I wake up feeling crappy… sore throat, tightness in chest. Then, as the day goes on, the symptoms seem to fade and I’m just a little tired. But it feels like I’m improving. Then, I get in bed and my lungs start acting up again and I proceed to have a sleep filled with coughing, discomfort and pain in my throat. Repeat.

Besides taking extra-strength Tylenol a handful of times, I’ve been completely “drug-free” this pregnancy and honestly, I don’t want to change that. I know certain medications are okay, but I just don’t want to go there until I feel like I’ve exhausted my other options. Not to mention the fact that nothing happening thus far is unmanageable. I should also mention that I have asthma. This is really what’s been bugging me the most.

Anyway, last night, my sweet husband stood by the side of the bed with a flaming hot cup of water for me to breathe over. That seemed to help, although it was somewhat of a temporary fix. So, this morning I was inspired to try some other natural remedies. Here’s what I’ve done so far…

1) Steam: again, maybe I didn’t breathe it in long enough, but this was pretty temporary. Within minutes of removing the steam, I started to feel the tightness in my chest again.

2) Gargling warm salt-water: this was surprisingly effective. Within minutes of gargling, my cough was way looser and I was coughing stuff up. Gross, absolutely. But… effective. They say you can do this 3-4 times per day, so there is definitely more in my future.

3) Drink water & thyme: You’re supposed to put 2 tbsp of fresh thyme in boiling water and let it soak for 5 minutes. Then drink while hot. I only had dried thyme, so I soaked and strained, then chugged it down. There wasn’t anything wildly noticeable like an uproar of phlegm, but I think overall, this has been helpful, too.

That’s all I’ve found and tried for now. Fingers crossed things will loosen up and get the f**k out of my body.

Symptoms

Feeling good from a pregnancy stand-point. I’ve been working out at home lately because it’s been so cold, so yesterday was my first day back at the gym. It was nice to hear that even my coach noticed that I seemed to have great energy and looked strong. After the workout, I went to the grocery store and had a total cook-off. I made wheat pasta and turkey meatballs, maple blueberry oatmeal, prepped chicken korma for tonight, and packed up our lunches. I felt proud of my endurance, but I’m not going to lie… when I crawled into bed at 11:15, I felt like a zombie. Did I mention that I also did a load of laundry and took a shower in that time? Yes, I’m proud.

Anyway, I think that’s a sign that my energy is back.

Healthy Diet for a Healthy Baby

Posted on January 20, 2014 by playinghousewi

I heard this NPR story about the benefits of probiotics for infants, specifically related to colic. I then read about 10 other articles, which expanded on other benefits. Think improved digestion, fewer diaper blow outs, prevention of allergies and eczema, reduced symptoms of colic… and the list goes on! Of course, I was immediately intrigued and got to thinking (especially after a VERY indulgent weekend), how else can I improve my baby’s well-being NOW… before he or she enters the world. So I did some more research on the best “pregnancy diet,” and honestly, most of what I found was stuff I’ve already read. I think because the word “diet” is used to refer to a meal plan designed to help you lose weight, which is not okay during pregnancy, there isn’t much info to be found.

Regardless, I was inspired me to make this week’s menu plan for my husband and I completely absent of simple carbohydrates and sugars. It’s a “Real Food” kind of week, that will hopefully lead to a “Real Food” kind of month!

So, what does this look like? Here’s the menu plan…

Monday

Dinner: Whole Wheat Spaghetti & Turkey Meatballs (I plan to swap the ground beef for ground turkey, but will otherwise follow the recipe)

*Tonight I will make dinner, tomorrow and Wednesday’s breakfast, and prep tomorrow’s dinner.

Tuesday

Breakfast: Blueberry Maple Refrigerator Oatmeal (This is a recipe my husband found… Sounds delish!)

Lunch: Meatball Pita Sandwich (Using leftover meatballs and sauce from Monday’s dinner, all in a wholewheat pita!)

Dinner: Slow Cooker Chicken Korma, Brown Rice (We are headed to Mark’s Grandpa’s for dinner, so I’ll bring this easy, make-ahead meal)

Snacks: Mini carrots and tomatoes, an orange, and an apple

*I will throw lunch together on Tuesday morning and will prep Wednesday’s dinner and part of Wednesday’s lunch on Tuesday night.

Wednesday

Breakfast: Blueberry Maple Refrigerator Oatmeal

Lunch: Quinoa Edamame Salad

Dinner: Slow Cooker Tofu & Chickpea Curry, Brown Rice

Snacks: Kale Chips (with very little salt), Carrots, an Orange

*I’ll finish making lunch and will throw everything in the crock for dinner in the morning. In the evening, I’ll prep tomorrow and Friday’s breakfast smoothie.

Thursday

Breakfast: Make-Ahead Strawberry Banana Oatmeal Smoothie

Lunch: Both Mark and I have lunch meetings.

Dinner: Leftover Slow Cooker Tofu & Chickpea Curry, Brown Rice

Snacks: Apple

*Tonight I’ll marinate the tempeh and do some other prep-work for lunch tomorrow.

Friday

Breakfast: Make-Ahead Strawberry Banana Oatmeal Smoothie

Lunch: Tempeh, Lettuce & Tomato Sandwich

Dinner: TBD (either leftovers or the hubs and I will go on a little date)

Snacks: Kale Chips, Mini Carrots, an Orange

Sounds like a flavorful week, right? Well, I’ll let you know how the recipes turn out, if I’m able to stick to my meal plan and how I feel at the end of the week. Also, getting back to the probiotics, I’m planning to get live-culture yogurt, which will go in many of the recipes and also look into Kefir, a yogurt-like drink, as a milk-substitute. Tempeh is also a probiotic source! Baby steps, right?

Symptoms

I’ve been fighting this annoying cold of sorts, but that’s hardly a pregnancy symptom. Although, that in combo with the pregnancy, has left me pretty dang tired this past week. I went to bed at 8:30 pm last night.

Also, I’ve been feeling a little more sensitive to food lately. Here’s what I’m not really feeling these days: mushrooms (this has been since the beginning of the pregnancy), chicken breast (for the last week or two, I find myself getting very grossed out biting into a piece of chicken breast. It’s only bite-sized, saucy pieces for now.), eggs (I know I should be eating them, as they’re a great source of protein, but unless on an egg sandwich, I’ve just not been loving them… at all)… hmm! This might be all.

I’m also getting pretty darn excited to find out the sex of our little baby. I feel like most people I ask think it’s going to be a girl (my Milly, my nieces, my sister, my grandpa, a couple colleagues, etc)… but, my mom and dad still think it’s going to be a boy. Time will tell! Either way, I’m VERY excited to see our sweet nugget on the ultrasound screen.

I Love Going to the Doctor

Posted on January 9, 2014 by playinghousewi

I think pregnancy is the only time anyone ever says that. But for me, right now, it’s totally true! I know I’ve gushed over my doctor and her nurse before, but I just totally love them both. They’re so sweet and just fun to chat with. And of course, my chatty self always seems to stretch our 30 minute appointments to 45+ minutes.

But enough gushing. As of today, the baby’s heartbeat was 160 beats per minute. I have gained 8.8 lbs, which the doctor said was good. Again, not to be a total girl, but my original weight was taken naked in the morning and this was taken with jeans and a sweater… so whatever 🙂 Maybe it’s a few ounces less. Either way, the doc said I looked good, my blood pressure was perfect and things were right on track. Also, they did find traces of protein in my urine, but she said that was normal.

And, in case anyone cares, here are the questions my husband and I asked and the answers we received:

Where can I get a breastpump that will be covered by my insurance? (NOTE: most insurance providers will either pay for part or all of your breastpump if purchased from an approved provider. Call your insurance to get more details.) Answer: Knueppel Healthcare Services Inc.
What are your thoughts on seeing a chiropractor during pregnancy? Answer: Many people find that this helps more than just a prenatal massage and/or physical therapy. You can often get the benefits of both from a chiropractor.
Is it okay for the chiropractor to use an ultrasound to heat/loosen your muscles? Answer: Yes, that is totally fine during pregnancy.
I’ve been having numbness in my leg and arm, should I be worried? Answer: Not at all. There is a lot more fluid in your body, which can mess with your nerves and circulation. Likely, it is also the positioning of the baby. But don’t worry, it should go away once you deliver.
My husband and I are thinking of going on a cruise or heading to Mexico for our one year anniversary in March. Is it okay to travel at 6.5-7 months? Answer: Yes! You might feel more comfortable at an all-inclusive, as you are more confined on a cruise and have less access to healthcare. But either is fine. Just make sure you check travel suggestions for vaccinations.
I am supposed to stand up in my friend’s wedding on July 3rd. If I am out of the hospital by then, do you think I can still go? Answer: Absolutely! Especially if it’s not a C-Section. You might need to take it easy, but most people feel okay after a few days. But, just listen to your body.
Are Belly Buds legit? Will the sound from the headphones be too loud for the baby? Answer: I don’t know if they do anything positive for development, but they definitely won’t do anything wrong. Go for it!
When will my appointments switch to twice a month? Answer: At 28 weeks.
Have you ever heard of perianal massages – using almond oil – being done to prevent tearing during childbirth? Answer: Yes. I think in some cultures they use olive oil as well. Honestly, we’ve found that tearing has a lot to do with genetics and the individual. We don’t tend to do episiotomies, but whether you’ll tear and by how much is pretty dependent on the person. We do sometimes do a perianal massage during labor to help loosen things up, but there is no evidence of whether this will help or not. Again, go for it if you’d like.
I haven’t changed my workout at all really. I don’t do twists or certain postures in yoga if they feel weird, but I’m pretty much doing the same as I did before. Is that okay? Answer: That’s absolutely okay. You seem in-tuned with your body, so just do what feels right. Especially now, as your body hasn’t changed that significantly. But, ultimately, working out helps significantly with recovery, getting your body back and even labor itself.

I think that was everything! All in all, we had a great (and informative) appointment. AND, NEXT MONTH WE FIND OUT THE SEX!!!

Symptoms

All I’ve got to say is that I’ve been LOVING almond butter and jelly sandwiches. Something I’ve never been fond of. Mmm. Can’t get enough.

I Think My Nipples Might Be Bleeding…

Posted on January 2, 2014 by playinghousewi

Okay, so at this point, I don’t actually think they are bleeding, but that’s more than I can say for yesterday. As I’ve mentioned, I live in Wisconsin. One of the lovely little benefits of this state is the opportunity to truly test your breaking… or freezing… point. Yesterday was another blustery, single-digit temperatured day, which led me to my most recent discovery. Freezing temperatures + Sensitive pregnancy boobs =What I can only imagine it feels like to sport nipple clamps.

This might sound like an exaggeration, but I’m not going to lie, as I was driving in my freezing cold car yesterday, I literally peeked inside my bra because I was sure my nipples were bleeding. The pain was throbbing and constant until finally, after 10 minutes, my car (and body) heated up. It was crazy. Now, I’m sure you can only guess how excited I am for our upcoming forecast…

That's a lot of negatives for one week... my nipples hurt already.

That’s a lot of negative for one week… my nipples hurt already.

I wonder if nipple pain is “sick day” worthy…

Anyway, enough bitching… HAPPY NEW YEAR! I have full intentions of blogging about new years resolutions, but I have to finish my list… maybe tomorrow. Until then, here are some pictures from our new years celebration! Nice and relaxed… and the best part, we were home by 1 am!

The hubs & I enjoying a little jazz.

Our sweet friends, Kate and Alan, getting a dance in before midnight.

We’re serious celebrators.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Cheers to 2014! A year filled with new adventure and tiny little things. Mmmm water!

Did I mention that on top of the cold, it won’t stop snowing??

We get it… let it snow, let it snow, let it snow… but Christmas is over…

Symptoms

There is nothing too new to report. I’m still having the numbness, which has inspired me to add a bit more yoga into my weeks. I found a quick video online of a nighttime yoga routine that I’d like to try and I’ve been trying to make it as often as I can to the studio. As of a few weeks ago, I hadn’t practiced since I found out I was pregnant, and didn’t realize how much I missed it. I’m thinking that yoga will help to keep my blood flowing, etc.

Other than that, I’ve been trying to focus on my diet and making healthy choices. In the past, I’ve been pretty successful in tracking my food using an app called MyFitnessPal. I’ve started using the app again, which really helps me keep things in check. Being that I’m a small person (short and petite), I have set my caloric intake at 1,700 calories per day. Prior to my pregnancy, I was at 1,200 a day, so I feel like 1,700 is legit. I know you technically only have to add 300, but I added the extra 200 because 1,200 was set to lose slightly.

Other than that, I’m still sleeping like shit. Yesterday I slept with my giant Euro pillow under my legs and my head and neck slightly propped. That seemed to help with the numbness, but was still pretty uncomfortable. Lots of tossing and turning. My goal for this next week is to buy a pregnancy pillow.

I also must mention that I think my baby bump officially came out this past week. Pretty much all of my pre-pregnancy pants now need a button extender and my tummy pouch is definitely more pronounced. Pretty crazy!

It will look way better on your hips…

Posted on December 30, 2013 by playinghousewi

This morning I woke up feeling bloated and fat. Not pregnancy fat, but December fat. Before I even got out of bed, I was already mentally cleaning out our kitchen. After a lot of this all weekend…

Mmmmmmini pies!

Sitting around the table with “the Hooligans” (aka: my husband’s boys) after an indulgent dinner and dessert.

A not-as-delicious-as-the-real-deal, virgin bloody mary that accompanied buffalo wings and french fries.

So, after all that, I think it’s officially time to start my “New Years’ Resolution” / Get-it-together diet… today! Every year, I let the delicious food get the best of me and my healthy eating habits seem to vanish. But, I’m ready for health. Which is why, I have to apologize to my coworkers for making my vice their problem…

Enjoy the tasty treats! I’m sure they’ll look amazing on your ass. Way better than on mine…

Symptoms

Well, the biggest issues I’ve been having lately are with sleep. I’ve been so darn uncomfortable. Lots of tossing and turning. I miss my out-cold zombie sleep. Other than that, I’ve been getting headaches… although the last couple days haven’t been too bad… and I’ve been getting super hungry. Oy. Not amazing for trying to be healthy. What else?? I’m still having the numbing sensations on my left side. It’s even showed up when I’ve simply been leaning on a chair with my left arm. I’ll have to remember to ask my doctor about that next week. Despite all that, I do feel like I’ve been getting my energy back. Cooking doesn’t feel like such a daunting task and I’ve actually been relatively productive at home, which is always good.

Also, I’m starting to get even more excited for little baby. My friend, Kate, got me the cutest little gender neutral outfit…

I love mommy.

It’s just too much cute.

Feeling Lucky

Posted on December 16, 2013 by playinghousewi

Not only am I a jolly pregnant lady with an amazing husband (who will be an amazing pops)…

How cute is he practicing with our friend’s sweet little babe??

BUT, on top of that, I get to go play BINGO instead of working today. My boss, colleague and I like to pick an afternoon every month or two to get together and have “Department Bonding Time.” This month’s merry activity is BINGO and I couldn’t be more excited. I have my good luck charms all picked out and am ready to dobber up a storm. And hey, maybe I’ll even win a few bucks. I’ve been practicing my BINGO cry and think I’m ready for a big win!

Wish me luck!

Symptoms

I’ve been feeling pretty good lately. Nausea seems to be gone… and actually, I don’t seem to be waking up every night to pee anymore. One thing that hasn’t changed too much is how tired I am. But, I’ve been attempting to power through it… minus yesterday, when I made it my goal to become one with my couch. Other than that, the biggest thing seems to be my tummy, which is puffing out a bit. At moments, I actually find it a little cute. Not a super cute baby bump quite yet, but it has potential.

I’ve also decided that I need to get my cravings and bad eating habits in check. My first trimester seemed to be laced with pig-out sessions and bad food choices, but now that I’m feeling back to normal, I’m determined to get my shit together. Goodbye candy (yes, I’ve been eating 1-5 tootsie rolls and starbursts a day – not necessary), goodbye Christmas cookies… hello vegetables, whole foods, and healthy living. I’ve been doing pretty well at working out 3-4 times a week and am feeling good about that. I feel like the better shape I’m in, the better off I’ll be to power through delivery. So, despite the freezing temps (this am it was literally 2 degrees F), I’m committed to dragging my ass to the gym, getting in some yoga, and keeping my body in the best shape possible. I mean, my job is to create a happy and healthy home for my little babe, right?

Our First Visit with the Nurse

Posted on November 6, 2013 by playinghousewi

Our first visit with the nurse was very informative… and, I must say that our nurse, Debbie, was a VERY sweet lady. I sat in a big, comfy rocker chair and we literally chatted for over two hours. The purpose of the appointment was to get as much information about me (and Mark) entered into the system and to answer any of my questions. And, I’m not going to lie, I was VERY happy I had filled out the March of Dimes worksheet with both of our families beforehand. It was so helpful in answering the questions about our family medical history.

Here are some things I learned…

No need to feel bad about my coffee yesterday. 200 mg of caffeine is in fact okay.
I can stop worrying about sleeping on my side for awhile… doesn’t really come into play until 22-27 weeks.
My 9rounds workout is great, but I should be working out 4-5 times per week (not the 3 times per week I have been exercising)… and that means breaking a sweat at each workout!
To help combat the nausea caused by my prenatal vitamin, I should try taking my vitamins before bed with some OJ. The acidity in the juice will help break down the iron.
I should add a Folic Acid supplement to my prenatal vitamin regimen. The supplement should be at least 400mcg.
I should be drinking 2 liters or 64ish oz of water/liquid per day.
I should be getting more calcium. This can be added with a supplement and/or through daily food intake.
My husband is amazing. He took notes through our entire appointment.
The “baby bump” I’m seeing is actually a displacement of fat, intestines,etc. because of my enlarged uterus. So, while it’s not technically a baby bump, it is baby related.
I CAN GET AN EARLY PREGNANCY ULTRASOUND! And in fact, mine is scheduled for this FRIDAY!!! Yay!
I had to give 5 vials of blood. I’m not going to lie, I was fighting back tears. I hate needles. But, important to note, this was the only medical / procedure-type activity at my appointment. Everything else was conversation only.
After about 14 weeks, I should switch to prenatal yoga only (no regular yoga).
I should aim to gain 25 lbs during my pregnancy… 2-6 during the first trimester is average.
I can take extra strength tylenol, according to the package, as needed. Although, I’m still going to try to avoid taking any medication.
I might get a 3D ultrasound picture at 19 weeks if they can get a good angle. Prepare yourselves for a creepy little photo!

So, all-in-all, it was a great appointment. We left with a little tote bag that they gave us filled with parenting, pregnancy and baby magazines; a baby book; and, our first baby items: a TINY diaper and a nook. We’re having a baby!!!

For your enjoyment, a funny husband story:

Mark: So, how do you take a baby home from the hospital?

Melissa: Uhhh, what do you mean?

Mark: Well, they don’t make car seats small enough for newborns, right?

Melissa: No, they do (as I’m laughing)

Mark: I thought you held them in your lap or something… do they grow out of the mini car seats in a week?

He’ll learn 🙂

Symptoms

At officially 8 weeks, I’m feeling great! No nausea really or at least nothing too annoying. Just feeling good. Although, I am pretty darn tired. But I’m starting to even get used to that. Otherwise, happy as a clam!

Have I Mentioned I’m Impatient?

Posted on November 1, 2013 by playinghousewi

Yesterday afternoon I called my doctor’s clinic to find out a little bit more about what to expect from my first visit. The reality is that all I wanted to know was whether or not I’d get an ultrasound. So, I’m sure you could imagine my surprised / frustrated / angered / upset / crabby response when the nurse explained that I would not have an ultrasound until 19-20 weeks. The conversation went something like this…

Receptionist: No mam, you won’t have an ultrasound until 19-20 weeks…

Me: I’m sorry, what? How will you know there’s a heartbeat?

Receptionist: Oh, if you took a pregnancy test, you’re definitely pregnant. Those things are like 99% accurate.

Me: I understand that I’m pregnant. But what about miscarriage? How will we know that the baby is okay?

Receptionist: Oh, you’d probably know.

Me: But I read that sometimes there is no heartbeat, but you don’t have signs of miscarriage for weeks or months even.

Receptionist: Yeah, I wouldn’t worry.

Me: Uhhh. I guess thanks?

Needless to say, I got off the phone and was irritated. I’ve never heard of that! I can’t even list the number of first trimester ultrasounds I’ve seen posted to Facebook, not-to-mention all the blogs I’ve read. I decided I needed a second opinion… so I called the other clinic where my doctor sees patients. This conversation started out in a similar way with the receptionist explaining that ultrasounds are not given until 20 weeks; however, some lovely woman (receptionist or nurse) who overheard our conversation set the record straight. Turns out they can do a first trimester ultrasound and my nurse, Debbie, can place the order for it at my appointment next week. This means that I likely will not get my ultrasound that day, but at least I’ll have one coming! Instant smile.

So, what are the takeaways?

1) While the first receptionist was quite annoying, her lack of worry and concern actually made me feel a little better. I’m comfortable with the idea that I’ll know if something happens, but since I haven’t noticed anything, I should assume everything is great.

2) Our little baby will have his or her first glamour shot soon AND, hopefully we’ll get to hear the heartbeat.

3) I’m glad I called. I like knowing what I’m walking into.

As for what to expect at the first appointment… this is a bit unclear, but it seems as if we will review my husband and my medical histories, I might get some blood tests, she’ll tell me “what to expect when I’m expecting,” answer my many questions, talk diet and exercise, and other informational items. So, being that I’m a pre-planner, I also have been working to fill out a form I found on the March of Dimes website.

Family History Form from March of Dimes

I already went through it with my parents and we will be going through it with Mark’s parents this weekend. I think that by having all of this information collected at our first appointment, we’ll be better prepared to ask questions. Here’s the link to the form.

Symptoms

I’m feeling pretty good today. Definitely more chipper! I mean, it is Friday after all. I’ve still been getting pretty tired, but it helps that I’ve been in bed by around 9 or 9:30 every night this week. I think my husband – a true sleep lover – is enjoying that side effect. Yesterday he said to me, “If there is a positive to you feeling kind of crappy… not that I’m glad that you don’t feel well or anything… but if there was a positive, it’d be that we’re getting to bed so early.” We’re the type that spends most of our non-working, waking hours together and goes to bed at the same time. So, I guess he’s right! It does feel nice to get a good night’s rest.

We also worked out again last night. I was a bit sluggish during the workout, but all-in-all, it felt good! I’m going to go again tonight to ensure at least 3 workouts this week. Gotta make sure I’m staying healthy. Which reminds me, I’m not sure if it’s possible that I’m showing already or if I’m just absurdly bloated, but either way, my tum is sticking out more than normal. My clothes still fit, although that tum of mine seems to be hanging over or out of some outfits a touch. Also, my scale shows that I’ve gained 2 pounds. I refuse to accept that just yet. Every day I feel totally inflated, so maybe I’ll wait until I’m 12 weeks to accept my “first trimester gain” amount.

Until then, I’m going to continue to eat healthy and workout!

Goodbye Gummies, Hello Horse Pill

Posted on October 24, 2013 by playinghousewi

As I mentioned before, beginning a few months before my pregnancy and up until Monday, I was taking Target brand Gummy Prenatal Vitamins with the VitaFusion Prenatal DHA + Folic Acid supplement. I can’t remember exactly what prompted me to look further into vitamins (maybe a babycenter.com email), but either way, I got to Googling. Pretty quickly, I came across this list of suggested prenatal vitamin ingredients from WebMD:

After comparing my gummy vits to WebMD’s list, I discovered that my supplements were falling short. There was no iron whatsoever in them and other values were too low. This prompted further Googling and the eventual purchase of Rainbow Light Prenatal One Multi Tablet and Oceans Mom Prenatal DHA from the Vitamin Shoppe.

Here’s my reasoning…

Rainbow Light Prenatal One Multi Tablet

PROs:

All requirements are met or exceeded
All ingredients are 100% natural
Only one pill per day (some vitamins required up to 6 per day!)
Rainbow Light is a well-reviewed brand
When I went to the Vitamin Shoppe, the guy confirmed my research – this brand is the most purchased at the store for Prenatals

CONs:

The pill is GIANT – make sure to take it during a time when you’re not feeling like you want to throw up… because this thing is big and smells funny.

Oceans Mom Prenatal DHA

PROs:

There weren’t a lot of options for DHA supplements, which are essentially Omega 3’s, so this choice was pretty simple.

CONs:

As with all fishy Omega 3’s, this thing smells like shit. The box says something about a “yummy strawberry flavor,” but I’m calling bluff. Just toss it in and knock it back.

As of now, I’m happy with my vitamin choices. However, I must mention that the first day I took the new vitamins, I was super shocked to see that my pee looked radioactive. I almost had to Google, “why is my pee so yellow pregnant.” (FYI: that’s my Googling technique… question and throw in the word pregnant.) Thankfully, before I could worry too much, I remembered I had switched vitamins and knew that this was just my body’s way of releasing the unneeded nutrients.

So, at this point, everything seems to be working and I’ve actually been feeling great. Maybe my new vitamins are part of my recent chipperness? Or maybe it’s just because I’m pregnant and beyond excited! Either or…

Symptoms

I’ve been feeling pretty darn great lately. I think I’m getting used to the faint nausea and it’s not really bothering me so much anymore. I’ve even been feeling way less bloated and way more myself – weight and everything is pretty normal. I’m guessing this has to do with the fact that I’ve been back to my normal diet which includes between 1200-1500 calories / day depending on exercise. (Yes, this seems low, but I am 5′ nothing. I’ve looked this number up and it is what it should be! Also, as an FYI, turns out you don’t actually get to “eat for two” when you’re pregnant. More like, increase your diet by 300 calories starting in your second trimester – sometimes first depending on your current weight situation. Google: “how much should I eat when pregnant” or check out this link from WebMD)

Last night after work – on my way to my bi-weekly mani with my mom and sister – I was feeling so uncomfortable. I wish I could have videoed the ride because I was literally using the automatic seat decline to move up and down for about 15 minutes, trying to find a comfortable position. I wasn’t crampy or anything… just achy and uncomfortable. I think the discomfort was mostly in my lower back. Again, it wasn’t pain at all… just couldn’t find a comfortable position. Thankfully, the joy of mani-time distracted me from any and all discomfort.

In terms of sleep, I became exhausted around 8 pm. Finally, just before 9, I had to call it quits. I collapsed in bed, and slept decently well. I turned on a few songs to fall asleep to and only remember hearing about 15 seconds of one. I woke up at around 1 to go to the bathroom and then I was out of bed around 5:45. All in all, pretty successful. Although I will say, I notice I’m not sleeping in the same way anymore. I’m a total back-sleeper normally and actually sometimes cross my arms over my chest to take full mummy form and then lay still for the complete duration of my sleep. This is not my reality anymore. I am constantly tossing and turning… from my back to my side and even onto my stomach, searching for a comfortable position. I think I’m going to do some research and invest in a pregnancy pillow. I feel like I want to be in a cocoon of pillow, totally nestled in. Keep you posted on any purchases.

Lastly, this morning I woke up feeling insecure about the fact that I’ve been feeling so great. Does feeling great equate to something happening (or not happening) to the baby? Or should I just relax and enjoy it while it lasts?