4 Months Old!

This was originally written on Saturday, August 16, 2008:

I wanted to report how Logan's 4 month appt. with the pediatrician went. . Logan officially turns four months old on Monday! :)

Joe, Logan, and I went to the doctor's office last Wednesday and for the first time there were no negative surprises! The appointment went so fast I was like, wait a second, that's it?! Is this how most people's visits are?

I much preferred this trip to any other! Logan came out to be 17 lbs, 1/4 oz. and 25 inches long. That makes him in the 90th percentile as far as weight and 50th percentile as far as height. We asked if he was "too chubby." Our pediatrician was like "no way!" The chart is just based on the average, but from a medical standpoint at this age "bigger is better." It's the smaller babies doctors keep their eye on. So that was a relief. Our doctor was like, "He's a great, healthy eater, keep it up!" I'm sure if Logan could have understood he'd have been happy! :)

Ironically, though, my milk supply has been decreasing AGAIN lately (despite still taking fenugreek), so I'm pumping all day every day again to see if I can bring it back up. Whenever I go a week without pumping a bottle I notice that my supply goes down despite Logan still wanting more! I didn't think that was supposed to happen at this point. Also, now that I can go longer between pumps, it hurts when I do it, whereas it never used to--not even in the beginning. Needless to say, I used to think I could open my own milk bank, I had so much stored in my freezer, but now I can count how many storage containers are in there because I've had to use them. :-(

Back to Logan. . .his head is in the 10th percentile (where it was when he was born) but the doctor wasn't concerned about that, either, because it's still bigger than it was at his two-month check-up (even though at that time it was in the 30th percentile)--so as long as it keeps growing and stays consistant with where it usually is, that's good. (It measured 16 in. circumferance.)

I also asked about his bad dreams, which I mentioned in a previous post he has for over ten minutes! Our pediatrician said that is normal with some babies and it is a good time for them to learn how to calm down/relax themselves. So we aren't to wake him up or soothe him at this point. It's true that when he wakes up he seems to have no memory of it (as he is always happy in "real life") so it's strange!

Our pediatrician loved him--Logan kept smiling & laughing at him!!! He had Logan do all of the tests they make 4 month-olds do, and Logan passed all of them with flying colors (holding his head up, following him with good eye contact, grasping anything within his reach, standing with assistance, etc.) He said Logan was really strong.

I didn't know that you can start feeding 4 month-olds baby food if you want. . .we're going to wait another month, though, as there are less chance of allergies that way and more chance that his digestive system is completely developed. You can read more at the following link: Parenting iVillage

For vaccines, we split Logan's up again. (We're doing half at the standard times and waiting on the other half until after he's two. Other posts I wrote about vaccinations can be found here: One. Two. Three.)

There's a good book out by Robert W. Sears (one of the most respected & famous pediatricians in America), called The Vaccine Book: Making The Right Decision For Your Child. The reason why the book is good is because it's completely both sides. Most books are either one way or the other--vaccinate or don't vaccinate. But he gives an honest approach from a board-certified medical standpoint, explaining how to to tailor your child's shot schedule to minimize risks and satisfy state requirements, how common or rare, as well as how serious each disease is, what the vaccine ingredients are, which ones are controversial and why, what side effects might occur, how to recognize, treat and prevent side effects, which brands and types of vaccines are the safest, and what precautions unvaccinated children should take to stay healthy.

The day before Logan's appt. Joe and I read the book together and feel good about continuing our decision to do the same shots that we had done at two months old, rather than skipping them all or adding the others at this time.

For the vaccines that we didn't do, as I said in the linked post above that I labeled "three," skipping polio is because there hasn't been a U.S. citizen with the disease since the 1970's. The vaccine is made of monkey kidney cells, cow serum, and human blood proteins. The chance of Logan contracting the disease any time soon is pretty much 0.

For DTaP, the controversy is because it's made of a lot of chemicals. Aluminum, formaldehyde (which is toxic), and polysorbate (also toxic) just to name a few. The "P" in DTaP is for the disease pertussis, and when the entire germ is used in the vaccine, it often causes shock, seizures, and brain dysfunction. For the DT, Dr. Sears writes, "In truth, tetanus is not an infant disease, and virtually all cases occur in adults. Also, diphtheria is virtually nonexistent in the United States. So, one could create a logical argument that a baby could skip the tetanus and diphtheria shots for a few years and be just fine. This child could then get the tetanus series as a teenagers and the diphtheria shots before traveling the world. He could even get them together as the DT shot."

As with all of the diseases, statistics show that breastfed babies who don't attend daycare (i.e. Logan) are at very low risk of contracting them. Breast milk has antibodies that coat the lining of the nose, lungs, and intestines, so most germs that get inhaled or swallowed are killed.

Still, I read about the awful diseases, such as rotavirus, and know that I couldn't handle the possibility of Logan somehow contracting it. Rotavirus is the most common of any of these vaccinated diseases, affecting 2 million worldwide, with 1/2 million dying. There is no medication to treat it if you get it, aside from IV fluids to help with dehydration. Since it is most common in babies under a year old, that is why we chose to do that one now.

It's gross that the vaccination is a live virus (containing monkey kidney cells, fetal cow blood, polysorbate, and live, genetically altered organisms) with side effects that include seizures and intestinal complications--but if not vaccinated, Dr. Sears points out that at sometime in the child's life (unless you're planning to keep them home 24/7) he will contract it. "It's a matter of when will he catch it and how severe will it be." (Update: I must point out that I have since heard of several children in circles with people I know who have still contracted rotavirus despite being vaccinated, so it is not guaranteed your baby will not get it if given the shot. All of these babies recovered, although even with IV fluids they still weight.)

If I had to do it over again I probably wouldn't have given him the Hib. The reason why it's controversial is because the disease Hib is rare these days and treatable, and the vaccine contains aluminum. . .studies show that aluminum may lead to autism, ADD, hyperactivity, and other brain disorders. Fortunately, since we didn't get the DTaP at the same time, Logan received far less alumnium than the "average" child, which lowers his chance of having a toxic effect.

Meanwhile, the disease for the PC shot is common and can be very serious, but is treatable and also contains aluminum. I still would have had him get the PC since the disease most often occurs in infants, and just like the rotavirus is not a matter of if he'll get it, but when and how serious. I'd prefer not to play russian roulette to see how serious Logan would get it.

Fortunately, Logan showed no side effects from the vaccines at either two months or four months. (Probably a plus to being 17 lbs!) Last time he didn't even cry when he was given the shots; this time he did but was quickly quieted with milk. Neither time did he develop a fever, redness, or swelling which are common, although this time he pooped a lot which is common to get rid of the rotavirus (that's the live virus, given as an oral drink)--but I think that was a good sign because hopefully it's out of his system now. (He had 4 explosive diapers both on Thursday and Friday.) Some children also lose their appetite. . .but not Logan, LOL.

Still, I did the things that Dr. Sears recommends after giving your child vaccinations:

1) Breastfeed (since there has been controversy with vaccines making immune systems weaker, this is the #1 thing to do to make immune systems stronger!)

2) Minimize sugar and junk food (all doctors agree it weakens immune systems)

3) Minimize other chemical exposures (unfortunately, the amounts in vaccines are unavoidable at this time but we can control many in our environment)

4) Use omega-3 oil supplements (I recommend the DHA brand--I took them while pregnant and continue to while nursing)

5) Probiotics (these healthful bacteria live in our intestines. They play a critical role in regulating both our intestinal immune system and our internal immune system. Antibiotic use destroys these bacteria, leaving a child more susceptible to a host of illnesses and intestinal problems. Taking probiotics on a continuous basis can really do wonders for the immune system. I take the Duo-Dophilus brand.)

6) Fruits and vegetables (can help prevent infectious diseases and may limit vaccine reactions)

7) Vitamin A (helps with neurologic health; protects brain from vaccine side effects)

8) Vitamin C (helps boost the immune system and may decrease vaccine side effects; I've been giving this to him every day this week.)

Speaking of the litte guy, he's awake from his nap so this will be it from me for a while!

Second & Third Trimester Pregnancy Signs

This was originally written on Wednesday, February 06, 2008:

Aside from skin changes and back pain (which I blogged about in the last two posts), there can be high blood pressure. If left untreated during pregnancy, hypertension reduces blood flow to the uterus and increases the risk of intrauterine-growth restriction. In the mom-to-be, high blood pressure can cause seizures, kidney disease, liver disease, heart damage, and brain damage.

I'm good in this area, but I'm not out of the woods yet, as many pregnant women don't develop it until sometime during the third trimester.

Another possibility is swelling. Swollen feet and ankles may become an issue at this stage of pregnancy. Your growing uterus puts pressure on the veins that return blood from your feet and legs. Fluid retention and dilated blood vessels may leave your face and eyelids puffy, especially in the morning.

If you have problems with swelling, use cold compresses on the affected areas. Lying down or using a footrest may relieve ankle swelling. It may also help to swim or even stand in a pool.

Knock on wood, so far, so good on this. I think it helps that I am at home most days--in fact, I think that's been to my advantage on many pregnancy-related issues because I can adjust my body accordingly to what it wants/needs.

Shortness of Breath. You may get winded easily as your uterus expands beneath your diaphragm, the muscle just below your lungs. This may improve when the baby settles deeper into your pelvis before delivery. In the meantime, practice good posture and sleep on your side.

I have definitely been noticing this lately as I go up and down our LONG staircase! (Pray I don't fall. . .thanks!)

Braxton Hicks Contractions. These contractions are warm-ups for the real thing. They're painless and come and go unpredictably. True labor contractions get longer, stronger and closer together. If you're having contractions that concern you, contact your health care provider.

I haven't experienced these yet.

Gestational Diabetes. This is a temporary type of diabetes that sometimes develops during pregnancy. Prompt treatment and healthy lifestyle choices can help you manage your blood sugar levels and deliver a healthy baby.

Anemia. Anemia is an abnormally low level of red blood cells or hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that contains iron. Severe anemia may slow your baby's growth or trigger preterm labor. To treat anemia, you may need to take iron supplements.

Between 16 and 20 weeks, pregnant women can start to feel the baby moving around inside. Toward the end of the second trimester, you may also feel repeated "blips"--your baby's hiccups!

I have not experienced these last three yet, although I mentioned in a previous post that I had this next one.

Bad Dreams. As your baby becomes more of a reality, your dreams might become more startling. Don't freak out if you wake up in a cold sweat -- it's normal to feel a little anxious.

Sex Drive. During your fifth month, you might suddenly feel much more sexual. Your body is manufacturing estrogen in overdrive: The ovaries produce as much in a single day as a nonpregnant woman's ovaries do in three years. And, since the first trimester's nausea and fatigue have tapered off, you might just feel more aroused.

Hmmm, I've actually noticed the opposite! Well, when you feel & move like a whale. . .

Vaginal Discharge. Potentially heavy vaginal discharge is common at the end of pregnancy. If you saturate a panty liner within a few hours or wonder if the discharge is leaking amniotic fluid, contact your health care provider.

Nasal Congestion. Your nose feels stuffy and sometimes you will experience nosebleeds during pregnancy. Your blood volume increases by nearly 45%, which is an amazing increase in volume. It affects the membranes inside your nose, causing them to swell. Try increasing your fluids and talk to your healthcare provider about what you can use to ease your nasal dryness, a cold steam humidifier may help increase the moisture in your home. Increased blood circulation can soften your gums as well, which may cause minor bleeding when you brush or floss your teeth. Make sure you visit your dentist incase you develop "pregnancy gingivitus."

Until recently, I definitely experienced the stuffy nose, and there was one day when my gums bled while I brushed my teeth. I also noticed the other day that a pimple popped in the shower. . .and it took forever to stop the bleeding. Maybe my increased blood volume is also why my foot injury was so bad on my birthday.

Sciatica. Some women will experience this discomfort off and on during pregnancy. It is characterized by tingling, numbness and pain affecting the buttocks, hips and thighs. The sciatic nerve branches from the lower back, down the buttocks and legs. The enlarging uterus and growing baby put pressure on these nerves. Sometimes a simple change in position of the baby may help to alleviate the discomforts of sciatica. If you are troubled by this bothersome and unpleasant discomfort, talk to your healthcare provider.

I have yet to experience that one.

Insomnia. The reasons are numerous. First of all, you cannot get comfortable in bed. You position yourself on one side that took you ten minutes to arrange, and then your hip falls asleep. So, you turn over on your other side, rearranging the pillows again, and then your arm falls asleep. It feels like a never ending battle at times. Another reason is that you may have so much on your mind about the baby, delivery, pain of labor, and being a mom that your mind never stops. Anxiety plays a big role in insomnia. Take a warm shower before bedtime, read a good book before bed, remove yourself from the bedroom where you are having difficulty sleeping. Sometimes a change of rooms will help. Make yourself as comfortable as possible with pillows. Avoid caffeinated beverages and exercise immediately before bedtime.

I experience this problem at least once a week. As of yesterday, I can no longer sleep on my stomach (I know, I was already doing that way longer than the norm) so that makes the discomfort even worse. My body parts are constantly falling asleep these days.

Loose and Aching Joints. Some of you may feel as if your joints are loose or pop or just feel achy. Hormones released toward the end of your pregnancy soften the cartilage joining the pubic bone in front of the pelvis. It allows the pelvis to expand 1 to 1/5 cms enlarging the bony opening for the baby to pass through. This is not the only place that cartilage is found. It is up your back, between your spine, in your ankles and toes, and some women have the sense of achiness throughout their bodies.

Leg Cramps. It hurts so badly that you cannot even move. Try locking your knee down in the bed and pointing your toes or pull them toward your head. You should see immediate relief of the discomfort. This is better than rubbing your leg or jumping out of bed and trying to walk it out. Sometimes you will lose the ability to stand on the leg with which is referred to as a "Charlie Horse." If your partner is there with you, have him try the above technique on your leg for you. Practicing stretching exercises 2-3 times each day (especially before bedtime) will help prevent the cramps.

I have not had to deal with the last two. But the final one I noticed around Christmas: Mood Swings. I was at gordmans trying on maternity clothes, and found some underwear on hangers. When I went back to the dressing room to try everything on, I was greeted not so nicely by one of the employees.

"Miss! Your cart needs to go over here!"

Okay. So I gave the woman my cart and once again proceeded to a dressing room.

"No! You can't just go in there-I need to see how many items you have!"

Fine, no problem. I walked back over to her and she gave me a number for the amount of clothes I had. Then I was finally allowed to go into the dressing room.

After I'd put the first shirt or pants on, I realized that one of my hangers was missing: the underwear. So I walked back out and noticed the panties were sitting on her counter. She was talking to someone and so I reached to pick them up and she tried to snatch them from my hand!

Shocked, I said, "I wanted to try these on, too."

In a very snotty tone she said, "You can't try on underwear!"

I was confused because I have tried on undergarments my entire life and no employee at any store has ever told me I couldn't. "How am I supposed to know if they fit?"

She stuttered for a few seconds and said, "Well you can't try them on."

"Then I don't want them then!" And I threw them at her and walked back into my dressing room and slammed the door!

Now anyone who knows me knows this is not my typical behavior. I've never yelled or thrown something at a store employee before! But I had absolutely no tolerance that day. I almost started sobbing in the dressing room--until I saw a sign above the mirror that said "Leave your underwear on when trying on other undergarments." A-HA! Exactly like I thought! (That's what I've always done before--I would never try them on naked.) At the time, I was in the middle of changing again and so I put on another outfit before going back out to inform her that the sign made it obvious that it was okay for me to try on the underwear, as long as I left my current pair on. But, she was gone (with the underwear) and a very cheerful woman had taken her place. I went back into the room to try on the rest of the clothes but because of my sour mood it was hard to like any of them.

That was my birthday so when I got home is when I sliced my foot on the glass. :/

Anyway, there haven't been any more incidences where I've thrown things or yelled at strangers, but I definitely have more of an "I don't care" attitude since being pregnant. It's like I've lost some of my inhibitions or something. I've been reacting to my emotions immediately rather than thinking about consequences until after the fact.

According to various info scattered across the internet: "It's common to have mood swings during pregnancy, because of hormonal changes that affect your levels of neurotransmitters (chemical messengers in the brain) and the broad range of feelings you may have about becoming a parent.

Pregnancy can be a stressful and overwhelming time. You may be overjoyed at the thought of having a baby one day, and then just as quickly begin wondering what you've gotten yourself into. You may be worried about whether you'll be a good mom, whether the baby will be healthy, and how the cost of adding a child to your household will affect your family's future finances. And you may worry about how your relationship with your partner and your other children will be affected — whether you'll still be able to give them the attention they need.

Even if your baby is very much wanted, at times you may have mixed feelings about the pregnancy and what's ahead. That's not surprising, considering that the expectations we set for parents are so high these days, and the pressure starts even before the baby is born. You may be constantly wondering: Am I reading the right books? Am I buying the right products? Will I know how to stimulate my child's development properly and build his self-esteem?

In the meantime, your body's changing and you may be feeling unattractive. You may be worried about putting on too much weight or looking "fat" as your body expands to accommodate pregnancy, while at the same time feeling that you can't exercise as much as you might want to or used to.

It's not uncommon to feel like you've lost control over your body and your life during this time. All these concerns may take your emotions on a roller-coaster ride."

Wow, I couldn't have said it better! The good news is that all of these not-so-fun symptoms are temporary. For that final one, it's helped me lately to put complete trust in my body--that obviously it's been able to do all of this miraculous stuff so far, and so I'm going to be fine during the remainder of my pregnancy--as well as when the baby is here. Relaxation can do wonders.

Remember that you will never know everything and that's okay. You will learn what you need to, when you need to learn it. I'm sure there will be something that I look back on in the future and see that life would have been easier had I learned about it sooner. But since when is life easy? I could spend 24/7 reading about every scenerio possible and it still wouldn't be enough. I'd spend my life unsatisfied and constantly searching to fill a hole that is unending. Not my idea of fun. This type of lifestyle is unhealthy to anyone--but especially pregnant women. As you can see from this post, there are enough natural stressors during pregnancy without creating more!