Week 31: 4 Naval Oranges (weight)

Ummm … did anyone else notice that this puts me in single digit weeks!!!????

How your baby's growing:This week, your baby measures over 16 inches long. He weighs about 3.3 pounds (try carrying four navel oranges) and is heading into a growth spurt. He can turn his head from side to side, and his arms, legs, and body are beginning to plump out as needed fat accumulates underneath his skin. He's probably moving a lot, too, so you may have trouble sleeping because your baby's kicks and somersaults keep you up. Take comfort: All this moving is a sign that your baby is active and healthy.

How your life's changing:Have you noticed the muscles in your uterus tightening now and then? Many women feel these random contractions — called Braxton Hicks contractions — in the second half of pregnancy. Often lasting about 30 seconds, they're irregular, and at this point, they should be infrequent and painless. Frequent contractions, on the other hand — even those that don't hurt — may be a sign of preterm labor. Call your practitioner immediately if you have more than four contractions in an hour or any other signs of preterm labor: an increase in vaginal discharge or a change in the type of discharge (if it becomes watery, mucus-like, or bloody — even if it's pink or just tinged with blood); abdominal pain or menstrual-like cramping; an increase in pressure in the pelvic area; or low back pain, especially if you didn't have it before.

You may have noticed some leaking of colostrum, or "premilk," from your breasts lately. If so, try tucking some nursing pads into your bra to protect your clothes. (And if not, it's certainly nothing to worry about; your breasts are making colostrum all the same, even if you don't see any.) If your current bra is too snug, you might also want to pick up a nursing bra. Choose a nursing bra at least one cup size bigger than you need now. When your milk comes in you'll be grateful for that extra room!

If you're having a boy, you and your partner will want to take some time to think about whether or not to have your baby circumcised. Find out the pros and cons from your doctor, and what the procedure involves.

Decision Guide:

Do you want pain medication during labor?
There's no one right way to have a baby. Every woman's experience with pain is different and every labor is different. Some women know in advance that they want pain medication. Some are committed to a natural, unmedicated approach to pain management. And some want to try for a drug-free birth with the option of pain medication if the going gets too rough. Learn all you can about the pros and cons of the various options so that you can make an informed choice. Here are some things to consider as you make your decision:

• If you haven't done so already, sign up for a childbirth education class with your partner. Instructors generally cover all labor pain relief options, including epidurals, spinals, and systemic medication as well as drug-free approaches like breathing and relaxation techniques.
• Most women opt for some kind of pain medication during childbirth. The most popular form of labor pain relief, an epidural, delivers continuous pain relief to the lower part of your body while allowing you to remain fully conscious.
• Some women choose a natural, drug-free approach to controlling labor pain. If you want to remain in control of your body to the greatest extent possible, be an active participant throughout labor, and have minimal routine interventions in the birth process, then natural approaches will suit you best. If you choose to go this route, you accept the potential for pain and discomfort as part of giving birth, but with the right preparation and support, you may find it works well for you.
• Whether you've decided to use pain medication during labor or are committed to natural childbirth, remember that you have the right to change your mind once you're in labor.
  

This Week's Activity:You don't need to pack your bag yet, but start making a list of items to bring to the hospital. Besides a change of clothes and a toothbrush, some items to include:

• A photograph or object to focus on during labor
• Snacks to keep your energy up and gum or mints for bad breath
• Cozy socks and slippers
• Your favorite pillow
• Some light reading material
• A nursing nightie and nursing bra
• A going-home outfit for your baby

A camera or camcorder, fresh batteries, and film, if necessary

As for me …

• Mr. Futz sure is getting big and doc had confirmed that I’m all external. Which is good. Means he has a bit more space to move and grow. He’s moving a ton … and is most active at night from 10pm-12am. Mike got a great show last night for sure! I find him pushing and stretching and grooving out more often. At the Sharks vs. Avs game on Friday night he would push with his feet each time the bass was blasting in the arena. I’ve noticed he does the same when I’m in the car listening to my music. His actions are also different depending on the type of music. So weird!!
• Braxton Hicks … I believe that I’ve been feeling these. Although it’s not painful it is uncomfortable. Kind of stops you in tracks for a second. Happens a few times … then goes away. But then again … it’s my uterus contracting … and I’ve never felt that before so I’m guessing here.
• Medication during labor … Mike and I are still debating this one. We’ll likely have a more clear idea of which way we’re steering once we get through our child birth prep classes. Then we’ll have a better idea of everything. But at the moment … leaning towards natural but not afraid to ask for the meds either if it’s too painful. I’m just really worried about my back and more importantly my hips holding up to the challenge. So we’ll see. -
• I’ve already started a mini-mental list for the hospital. But I guess I really should write it all out. Just to be ready (afterall … there is a girl who gave birth to her son at 31 weeks on Saturday!!!).
• Now that the season is over and work will calm down, I’ll be able to get more rest and take care of my foot, etc.
• Mike and I are focusing on getting things ready and making sure we have all the necessities on the registry. And taking time to just be together. That’s why this past weekend we went to the hockey game and on Saturday went to Monterey. Sunday we were supposed to go to the Oakland zoo but we got a late start on the day and my back/legs weren’t quite ready yet from all the walking the day before. So we’ll go this weekend instead.

Hope everyone is doing well … we are!!!