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The Final Stretch!!! Reflecting on my Goals

February 22, 2017      11:08

I'm not sure if my second pregnancy feels shorter because I've done this before, I'm super busy, or a mixture of both. I can't believe that I'm already in the third trimester. My memories of third trimester include extreme fatigue, blowing up, preggo brain, baby showers, and the ultimate climax of labor. I thought that this would be a good blog entry to go through ideals that I had during my first pregnancy and how they have changed.

Eating Habits and Pregnancy
Before: Eat what you can... You already don't eat as much
Now: It's beyond moderation... Time to diet

My views have changed mostly because I have been diagnosed with gestational diabetes. It was a big bummer. I failed the 1 hour as I had my last pregnancy,  but failed the 3 hour test this pregnancy.  For the last week and for the rest of my pregnancy,  I will be controlling my glucose levels through diet control. The low carb diet is interesting because I can eat all the steak I want,  but I have found myself to be more hungry. I've accepted my diagnosis and follow the diet.  The idea of a diet during pregnancy seemed inhumane to me in the past, but I now see it as a must.  I will do whatever I can for the health of my baby.  Pricking my finger 5-7 times a day and changing my eating habits are no exception.

Labor
Before: No interventions unless it's an emergency
Now: No interventions unless it's an emergency.

I am going for my trial of labor (Please watch the movie Trial of Labor)  .  Since having the cesarean,  I knew I wanted to try for the VBAC ( vaginal birth after cesarean). The recovery for my c-section was both physically and emotionally taxing. However, I am more accepting that a c-section  is not the end of the world but an alternate route.  The main desire of birth, regardless of the process, is a healthy baby. 

Feeding
Before: Exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months to a year
Now: Breast feeding for as long as I'm able and no more than a year

Self compassion is so important  for mothers. I beat myself too much for my inability to reach my breastfeeding goals. Unfortunately,  many mothers do the same. I was able to nurse exclusively until going back to work and was able to pump a bottle or two until Felicity was 6 months old.  My supply went down dramatically when I went to work and even more on certain rotations. It broke my heart the day Felicity rejected nursing. Now, I am more prepared for that day no matter when or the circumstances surrounding the occurrence.  The goal is now to be satisfied feeding my baby healthy foods regardless of the source.

I hope this entry resonates with others.  I'd love to hear what others are thinking. 

Comments

  1. AshleyFebruary 22, 2017 at 9:37 AM

    My 2nd preg is different to always tired became anemic so I have to take supplements twice a day plus prenatal back stiff carpal tunnel in my wrist n swelling ..my first preg I could run a marathon this one naw shor not even..just focusing on healthy baby n making it to full term

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. DayByDayFebruary 22, 2017 at 11:05 AM

      It's so true when they say every pregnancy is different! Congratulations!

      Delete
  2. AshleyFebruary 22, 2017 at 11:09 AM

    Yep congrats to you to

    ReplyDelete

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