Body Affinity Baby

Body Affinity Baby Blog

May 5th, 2011

We made it through the first trimester! Feeling so much better now.  The nausea has subsided although I still crave the carbohydrates!

We went for our first trimester ultrasound and screening on April 20th.  We did what is called the NTC test (Nuchal Translucency Fold). They measure the space between the vertebrae and the skin fold in the neck area along with taking blood work from the mother. These two tests together are supposed to give an 85% accuracy rate for possible Down’s Syndrome.  We just found out at the top of the week that our test came back normal and everything looks great.  Big sigh of relief!  


Now take into mind that this is not 100% accurate and those mom’s whose tests may come back with an abnormal read, it does not necessarily mean your baby has Down’s or any other birth defect.  An acquaintance of mine had both her children come back with abnormal tests and she has two perfectly healthy babies. So the important thing to remember is that these are markers.  In today’s world the doctors and hospitals have high liability so they need to tell you every possible indicator or marker that may show up.

I am off to my structural ultrasound tomorrow afternoon to determine if an amnio is necessary.  In the past couple of years they have loosened their grip on every one over 35 is at risk so you should get an amnio.  Tests these days have evolved so that they can rule out many things prior to jumping onto the amnio bandwagon.  I had an amnio with my first and I would be more than happy to abandon the prospect if the doctors feel it is unnecessary!  Of course if there is a need to I will do so.  The goal is I would like a healthy child.

Staying extremely active.  Teaching a lot and keeping fit with my own little program that I would love to share with you.  Of course I have had to tone down almost all that I usually do but I still feel that keeping my body moving has been so beneficial in making me feel stronger and better throughout my first pregnancy and this one.  The key is moderation, not stopping!!!  Unless of course you are under strict orders from your doctor and you are deemed high risk.  No exercise regimen should be undertaken while pregnant without checking in with your physician first.  Every women is different as is every pregnancy.  So the best advice I can give is to listen to your doctor as well as to your own body.


An Idea of my daily workout: 

My regimen: 30-35 minutes daily of some cardiovascular exercise.  Either walking or doing the elliptical or stationary bike are all great ways to get your cardio workout in.  You want to keep your heart rate under 140, stressing once again that a moderate level is key.  After the first trimester abdominal exercises as well as lying on your back for any lengthy period is not recommended.  There are many modifications for exercises that you normally do on your back and the use of a wedge pillow can be beneficial.  


Below I have an explanation from an obstetrician in regard to sleeping on your back. I found this on Babycenter.com

Russell Turk

obstetrician

If you typically sleep on your back, it's safe to continue doing so through the first trimester. But as the uterus gets heavier in the second trimester, it's best to choose another position.

When you lie on your back, your uterus presses on the vein that returns blood from your lower body to your heart. Lying on your back for an extended period of time could interfere with the flow of blood and nutrients to the placenta and your developing baby.

This is potentially unsafe, particularly if you have a condition like high blood pressure that affects how much oxygen and nutrients the baby is getting. If you have such a condition, your doctor will advise you to sleep on your side.

Don't be alarmed if you go to sleep on your side and wake up flat on your back. It happens all the time and shouldn't have any serious adverse effect on your baby's health.

Nonetheless, try to train yourself to sleep on your side or sitting propped up. If you need to, place a pillow between your legs, under your hip, or behind your back to make your sleep position more comfortable.Russell Turk

obstetrician

If you typically sleep on your back, it's safe to continue doing so through the first trimester. But as the uterus gets heavier in the second trimester, it's best to choose another position.

When you lie on your back, your uterus presses on the vein that returns blood from your lower body to your heart. Lying on your back for an extended period of time could interfere with the flow of blood and nutrients to the placenta and your developing baby.

This is potentially unsafe, particularly if you have a condition like high blood pressure that affects how much oxygen and nutrients the baby is getting. If you have such a condition, your doctor will advise you to sleep on your side.

Don't be alarmed if you go to sleep on your side and wake up flat on your back. It happens all the time and shouldn't have any serious adverse effect on your baby's health.

Nonetheless, try to train yourself to sleep on your side or sitting propped up. If you need to, place a pillow between your legs, under your hip, or behind your back to make your sleep position more comfortable.

Happy Sleeping! More to come soon!