These Are The Best Days Of My Life: No Progress, Yet

Today was the 36 week visit at the doctor's office. While the baby is in position, head down ready to go, my cervix is locked up tighter than a vault. As of today, no dilation, effacement, nothing. Although, my doctor told me that doesn't mean anything, and I could very well go into labor tonight. She gave me a copy of my records and will continue to do so every week until I deliver. They are for me to keep for when I go to the hospital to give to the nurses. I told her I have been feeling crampy and having some pressure, and she said that sounds like signs of progression.

My weight gain was six pounds, but some of that is water weight. I have been swollen and can definitely see it in my face. I have been experiencing frequent headaches and seeing flashes of light. Since I conveniently work at an optometrist's office I had my eyes looked at. The doctor seemed to think I was having ocular migraines. My OB said it "could" be that, but with the swelling and headaches she wants to keep a closer eye on me. So, I will be returning to her office on Monday instead of Wednesday so she can watch my blood pressure and water retention. Those symptoms can be signs of pre-eclampsia so she wants to be cautious.

Last night was our second time to meet for our pre-natal class. We watched the live birth video and went over the labor and delivery process. She taught our "coaches" some massage techniques to help us during labor. We used the birthing balls, which were a lot more comfortable than they look. Next week she is planning to discuss all the medical interventions such as c-sections, IV's, and pain relief. I had initially thought I wanted an epidural as soon as the doctor would let me have it, but after going to the class I plan to go as long as I can without it. She has explained to us the benefits of getting an epidural, but also the disadvantages. I have a pretty high pain tolerance, so I'm going to try to wait it out as long as possible.

Jason got the Pack N' Play put together on Sunday. It's in our room next to his side of the bed. We thought it would be a tight fit, but it ended up fitting there perfectly. Hopefully Jason and I won't have to switch sides of the bed since it's on his side. Riley is exactly eye level with the top of it, so I imagine she will be peeking over it a lot once the baby is here. I have caught Possum going into the baby room just to check things out. She was really interested in all the bags and goodies from the shower, too. Jason started working on getting the swing put together but hasn't quite finished. I hope we can find a place to put all this baby stuff in our house!

I finally got some pictures from my shower, so here they are for your viewing pleasure...