Pregnancy Week 21
During my 20 week ultrasound, the doctor said we hit a home run and baby looks perfect! He’s measuring 2 days behind but still within normal range for his development; seems like he will fit in with the rest of the family with our small yet dense frames. “Pelvic rest” continues so as not to cause any problems for my cervix, though the cervix is sealed shut and is a safe length for now. Fingers crossed this helps us stay pregnant!
My belly button is disappearing as the uterus grows. I wear dresses on rotation since any kind of bottoms are too small now. I’m so thankful for maternity garments- they are the only thing I’ve bought for my pregnancy.
The sugar cravings are so strong! It’s dangerous having sweets and treats in the house, and a loving husband who is experimenting with making powdered-sugar-covered creations in his cast iron skillets, because I have embarrassingly little to no self control. However, today I told myself, “I can make healthy choices for my baby and my body. Dang it, I can make myself an egg and eat some salad instead of what’s calling my name.” Yep, I have to reason with myself until I’m convinced I can do it haha. I’m gulping water (and electrolytes in the form of coconut water) constantly in an effort to stay hydrated in this summer heat, and sometimes to counteract the sugar I’ve caved to. I read somewhere that the body’s response to dehydration mimic the effects of oxytocin, which can induce contractions and cause preterm labor—avoid if at all possible!
I look forward to being outside, but it’s been super hot lately and I haven’t been waking up early enough to catch the cool morning shade since sleep evades me at night. I have vivid dreams (well, nightmares) and need to get up to the bathroom regularly, and have aches and pains all over so it’s insomnia until I’m so tired that I conk out, plus a nap around 3pm. I’ve been trying to be cautious about activity since doing too much seems to trigger Braxton Hicks (practice contractions). My body is already too good at contractions, so even though it’s normal to experience Braxton Hicks around this time it still worries me. My doctor recommended yoga for gentle supine and sciatic pain relief while my lower back pain is spreading to hips and glutes. The dog helps me get in my daily walks.
