Baby Swan Update

We went to the doctor for our monthly OB appointment today. Baby Swan is doing just fine – strong heartbeat according to the Doppler. And I am also doing well. Blood pressure is low and weight gain is normal according to the doctor. I’m at 15 weeks and have gained roughly 10 pounds. I asked Mr. Cob if I looked like I’d gained that much and he sweetly told me no, which I don’t think is too far from the truth (and if it is, he’s smart enough to know to lie). The most obvious change so far has been the thickening of my waist. It used to be much more hourglass shaped – not so much anymore. And the beer gut look is easily covered with flowy tops. And the bigger boobs are a nice touch, although I think they’ll be dwarfed by the growing belly at some point. But for now I’ll enjoy living out what I’ve always felt is my big chested destiny.

Our next appointment is June 7th when we find out the sex of the baby!  I’ve been told by more than one person not to get too set on finding out that day because the baby may not be cooperative. Although, with Mr. Cob as a father, I doubt we have a shy one on our hands…rather, we probably have one who is always ready to show off his jewels.  Again, I keep saying he because I have this feeling we're having a boy, but I could be wrong. Mr. Cob did have a dream last night that we had a boy, or actually that he had (as in birthed) a boy! If only men could birth the baby. Let’s just say I’m going to need these next 6 months to mentally prepare for the labor and delivery part of this whole thing. My tolerance for pain has been said to be on the low end.  So I think I’m going to sign us up for a HypnoBirthing classes to help prepare.

HypnoBirthing, for those not in the know, (1) “starts from the premise that childbirth is natural and was never intended to be unduly painful. Our culture has made it so. (2) HypnoBirthing uses breathing techniques designed to release tension, restore your energy and facilitate the baby’s descent. (3) With increasing evidence that babies in the womb have memory, HypnoBirthing strives to have the baby’s, as well as the mother’s, experience be gentle and calm to give your child the best possible start to life.” (From the HypnoBirthing pamphlet from Stress Management Resources in Atlanta – www.stressresources.org). The next round of classes begin in June, so I plan on signing us up. My doctor said she thinks it’s a great idea and said her patients who practice HypnoBirthing really do have a much more calm and pleasant experience. And who doesn't want that?!