Doctor Check Up

Today we had another doctor appointment and this one was not as exciting as next Friday will be.  This morning we did the usual: peed in a cup, step on the scale, check blood pressure and check baby's heart rate.  The baby's heart rate is 150 which the doctor says is perfect.  I am up 3.8 pounds since we started this journey.  I guess the blood pressure was also good. 

Now it's time for the question and answer session with the doctor.

1. I read that sleeping on my back is not a good idea.  Is this really bad because I do this all the time?

It's not a good idea to sleep on my back (she provided the reason, but it's long and I don't think I can explain it without completely butchering the reason and without having it come out sounding ridiculous).  I don't have to worry about this until 20 (I think it was 20) weeks.  To prevent me from sleeping on my back I should sleep with a pillow behind me to prevent me from rolling on it.  Ok, we will give it a shot.

2. I have a constant sharp pain in the same spot, very low in my back.  Am I doing something to cause this or can I do something to prevent this?

This could be caused by where the baby is situated.  It could also be a nerve thing (ok, I am not a doctor so it's hard for me to re-explain without sounding like an idiot).  As the baby gets bigger he/she will re-situated her/himself and this might relieve the constant sharp pain.  I could also take Tylenol (which does not work) to relieve the pain.

3. I have travel coming up.  When is the latest I can fly?

I am able to travel up to 35 weeks.  So, I asked the doctor "I have a wedding in WI July 20th, is that out?"  Uhm, yes!  I guess I will not travel after the month of June.  I have two trips planned in June and then I am banned from flying for a while.

4. My weight gain seems to be low and that is starting to worry me.  Should I be worried?

I am right on target with my weight gain of 25 pounds for the pregnancy.  I should not worry about my weight being too high or too little.  The doctor will monitor that.  I should gain 5 pounds at week 20 and then after that I will find myself gaining 1/2 pound to one pound per week.  Wow!  I guess I did not need to worry about not gaining enough weight as I guess the abundance of my weight gain is still to come and I am right on target.

5. I think I have developed allergies and I am miserable.  Is this normal?

Yes this is normal as pregnant women tend to get sick and acquire allergies since their immune system is quite low.  AWESOME!  I can take Benadryl and Clairitin to feel better.  I have been taking both and I still feel awful!  I have never had allergies before...another glorious benefit of being pregnant.