16 Weeks

Your baby is now about the size of an avocado (about 5 inches / 11.6 centimeters long from crown to rump and weighing approximately 4 ounces / 100 grams). In the next three weeks he'll go through a tremendous growth spurt, doubling his weight and adding inches to his length.

In or out of the womb, babies are playful creatures. Yours may already have discovered his first toy - the umbilical cord - which he'll enjoy pulling and grabbing. Sometimes he may even clutch it so tight that less oxygen gets through, but don't worry - he doesn't hold onto it long enough to harm himself. The circulatory system and urinary tract are in full working order, and he's inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid through his lungs.

Sometimes, when you move suddenly, you may a feel a slight pain in your sides. Ligaments on each side of your uterus and pelvic walls are stretching as your baby grows. It's normal to feel some pain, but if it continues for a few days or escalates, talk to your doctor.

14 Weeks

I have been busy these past few weeks that I have not gotten around to blog about the latest happening in my "new" life. Firstly, I had my prenatal checkup last 28th of November and all went well. My baby seemed fine but we were still not able to see the gender.

It was time to tell the whole world about my pregnancy. Predictably, I posted a status on Facebook and I was overwhelmed by many various congratulations and greetings.

On one occasion, I happen to see an acquaintance and we talked about pregnancy and doctors. She strongly advised me to change my health care provider telling me that my current doctor is not good enough, only wants money and so on. I've already heard a lot of similar things from others about my doctor and I thought it wouldn't hurt to heed her advice and go for a second opinion.

And so Karl and I visited the referred foreign doctor. During the ultrasound, we all got so excited because it was the first time I was able to see my baby so alive! He was kicking and thrashing all around. I was able to see him fully, with the whole spine and head and face, hands and feet. But he was rotating in angles which made it impossible still to see the gender. I even thought he was sucking a thumb!

It was a great, overwhelming and inexplicable feeling. Though I still couldn't get my head into thinking that I am "really" pregnant, I saw the proof that someone tiny yet blossoming with life is inside me. I hope by next checkup I'll be able to see the gender.

Herb and Drug Safety Chart

Herbal remedies are considered natural alternatives to certain drugs, but they can also be dangerous when taken during pregnancy. While a cup of chamomile tea is perfectly safe for a mum-to-be, many herbs contain chemicals that can cross the placenta to your baby, and some can cause premature contractions.

As with all medications, you should avoid taking any herb during the first trimester and use only minimal amounts for short periods of time thereafter, and then only when needed. If you wish to use herbs to treat a problem (rather than to ease symptoms of minor conditions such as heartburn), see a qualified herbalist. And always talk to your obstetrician or midwife before taking any herb or medicine during pregnancy.

To make life easier for you, we have reprinted the following charts from Herbs for a Healthy Pregnancy: From Conception to Childbirth by Penelope Ody. Ody is the author of the best-selling The Complete Medicinal Herbal, and a member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists.

Please note:
Before taking any over-the-counter herbal remedy, remember to check its contents against the following list of plants to avoid in pregnancy, and carefully note all of the individual cautions given for the herbs in the following sections. You could print out a copy for future reference.

Herbs to completely avoid during pregnancy:

Aloe Vera- The leaves are strongly purgative and should not be taken internally.
Arbor vitae (Thuja occidentalis)-A uterine and menstrual stimulant that could damage the fetus.
Autumn crocus (Colichicum autumnale)-Can affect cell division and lead to birth defects.
Barberry (Berberis vulgaris)-Contains high levels of berberine, known to stimulate uterine contractions.
Basil oil-A uterine stimulant; use only during labour.
Beth root (Trillium erectum)-A uterine stimulant; use only during labour.
Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosus)-May lead to premature contractions; avoid unless under professional guidance. Safe to use during childbirth.
Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis)-A uterine stimulant that in quite small doses also causes vomiting.
Blue cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides)-A uterine stimulant to avoid unless under professional guidance. Safe to use during childbirth.
Broom (Cytisus scoparius)-Causes uterine contractions so should be avoided during pregnancy; in parts of Europe it is given after the birth to prevent blood loss.
Bugleweed (Lycopus virginicus)-Interferes with hormone production in the pituitary gland, so best avoided.
Clove oil-A uterine stimulant used only during labour.
Comfrey (Symphytum officinale)-Contains toxic chemicals that will cross the placenta; do not take internally.
Cotton root (Gossypium herbaceum)-Uterine stimulant traditionally given to encourage contractions during a difficult labour, but rarely used medicinally today.
Devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens)-Uterine stimulant, oxytocic.
Dong quai (Angelica polymorpha var. sinensis)-Uterine and menstrual stimulant, best avoided during pregnancy; ideal after childbirth.
False unicorn root (Chamaelirium luteum)-A hormonal stimulant to avoid unless under professional guidance.
Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium)-Uterine stimulant; may cause premature contractions.
Golden seal (Hydrastis canadensis)-Uterine stimulant; may lead to premature contractions but safe during childbirth.
Greater celandine (Chelidonium majus)-Uterine stimulant; may cause premature contractions.
Juniper and juniper oil (Juniperus communis)-A uterine stimulant; use only during labour.
Lady's mantle (Alchemilla xanthoclora)-A uterine stimulant; use only in labour.
Liferoot (Senecio aureus)-A uterine stimulant containing toxic chemicals that will cross the placenta.
Mistletoe (Viscum album)-A uterine stimulant containing toxic chemicals that may cross the placenta.
Mugwort (Artemesia vulgaris)-A uterine stimulant that may also cause birth defects; avoid unless under professional guidance. Also avoid when breastfeeding.
American pennyroyal (Hedeoma pulegioides)-Reputed uterine stimulant to be avoided during pregnancy.
European pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium)-A uterine stimulant that may also cause birth defects; avoid unless under professional guidance. Also avoid when breastfeeding.
Peruvian bark (Cinchona officinalis)-Toxic; excess may cause blindness and coma. Used to treat malaria and given during pregnancy only to malaria sufferers under professional guidance.
Pokeroot (Phytolacca decandra)-May cause birth defects.
Pseudoginseng (Panax notoginseng)-May cause birth defects.
Pulsatilla (Anemone pulsatilla)-Menstrual stimulant best avoided during pregnancy; limited use during lactation.
Rue (Ruta graveolens)-Uterine and menstrual stimulant; may cause premature contractions.
Sassafras (Sassafras albidum)-A uterine stimulant that may also cause birth defects.
Shepherd's purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris)-A uterine stimulant; use only during labour.
Southernwood (Artemisia abrotanum)-A uterine stimulant that may also cause birth defects; avoid unless under professional guidance. Also avoid when breastfeeding.
Squill (Urginea maritima)-A uterine stimulant that may also cause birth defects.
Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare)-A uterine stimulant that may also cause birth defects.
Wild yam (Diascorea villosa)-A uterine stimulant to avoid unless under professional guidance; safe during labour.
Wormwood (Artemisia absinthum)-A uterine stimulant that may also cause birth defects; avoid unless under professional guidance. Also avoid when breastfeeding.


Herbs to use only in moderation during pregnancy:

Alder buckthorn (Rhamnus frangula)-Strongly purgative, so should not be taken in high doses or for long periods.
Angelica (Angelica archangelica)-A uterine stimulant in high doses, but quite safe as a culinary herb.
Anise and aniseed oil (Pimpinella anisum)-A uterine stimulant in high doses, but quite safe as a culinary herb; avoid using the oil entirely.
Bitter orange (Citrus aurantiam)-A uterine stimulant in high doses, but quite safe as a culinary herb or in moderate use.
Caraway (Carum carvi)-A uterine stimulant in high doses, but quite safe as a culinary herb.
Cascara sagrada (Rhamnus purshiana)-Strongly purgative, so should not be taken in high doses or for long periods.
Celery seed and oil (Apium graveolens)-A uterine stimulant in high doses, but quite safe as a culinary herb.
Chamomile oil-The oil is a potent uterine stimulant to be avoided, but the dried or fresh herb is safe in moderation.
Chili (Capsicum spp)-Avoid high doses as they may lead to heartburn; can flavour breast milk when breast-feeding. Moderate culinary use is fine.
Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)-A uterine stimulant in high doses, but quite safe as a culinary herb; avoid the essential oil completely.
Cowslip (Primula veris)-Strongly purgative and a uterine stimulant in high doses.
Elder bark -Strongly purgative, so should not be taken in high doses or for long periods.
Fennel and fennel oil-A uterine stimulant in high doses, but quite safe as a culinary herb; avoid using the oil entirely.
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)-A uterine stimulant in high doses, but quite safe as a culinary herb or during labour.
Garlic (Allium sativa)-Avoid high doses as they may lead to heartburn; can flavor breast milk when breastfeeding. Moderate culinary use is fine.
Gotu kola (Centella asiatica)-Possible uterine stimulant; use in moderation for occasional teas only.
Jasmine oil-A uterine stimulant best reserved for childbirth to ease labour.
Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng)-Clinical reports suggest that high doses in pregnancy can lead to androgynous babies (caused by overstimulation of male sex hormones); use for short periods only.
Lavender (Lavendula argustifolia)-A uterine stimulant in high doses, but quite safe as a culinary herb or for moderate use.
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)-High doses can exacerbate high blood pressure; safe in moderation.
Lovage (Levisticum officinale)-A uterine stimulant traditionally used in slow and difficult labour; safe as a culinary herb.
Marjoram and marjoram oil (Origanum vulgare)-A uterine stimulant in high doses, but quite safe as a culinary herb; avoid using the oil entirely.
Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)-A uterine stimulant in high doses; best limited to the final weeks and during labour.
Myrrh (Commiphora molmol)-A uterine stimulant that may lead to premature contractions; avoid high doses.
Nutmeg and Nutmeg Oil-Inhibits prostaglandin production and contains hallucinogens that may affect the fetus; once erroneously regarded as an abortifacient. Safe in normal culinary use.
Oregano (Origanum X marjoricum; O. onites)-A uterine stimulant in high doses, but quite safe as a culinary herb; avoid using the oil entirely.
Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) -Uterine stimulant that may also irritate the fetus in high doses; safe in normal culinary use.
Passion flower (Passiflora incarnata)-A uterine stimulant in high doses; safe for moderate use.
Peppermint oil-A uterine stimulant; avoid the oil entirely, although low doses of the dried herb can be used.
Raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus)-A uterine stimulant in high doses; best limited to the final six to eight weeks and during labour.
Rhubarb root (Rheum palmatum)-Strongly purgative, so should not be taken in high doses or for long periods.
Rosemary and rosemary oil-A uterine stimulant in high doses; safe in moderation and normal culinary use. Avoid using the oil entirely.
Saffron (Crocus sativa)-A uterine stimulant in high doses; safe in normal culinary use.
Sage and sage oil-A uterine and hormonal stimulant in high doses, but quite safe as a culinary herb; avoid using the oil entirely.
Senna (Senna alexandrina)-Strongly purgative, so should not be taken in high doses or for long periods.
Tea, black (Camellia sinensis)-Limit to two cups a day, as excess can lead to palpitations and increased heart rate.
Thyme oil (Thymus vulgaris)-Some reports claim that it acts as a uterine stimulant, though the research is disputed; the herb is quite safe in cooking.
Vervain (Verbene officinalis)-A uterine stimulant in high doses; best limited to the final weeks and during labour.
White horehound (Marrubium vulgare)-Reputed uterine stimulant; safe in moderation in cough drops.
Wood betony (Stachys officinalis)-A uterine stimulant in high doses; best limited to the final weeks and during labour.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)-A uterine stimulant in high doses; best limited to the final weeks and during labour.

More Symptoms

As I'm nearing the end of my first trimester, I feel more pregnancy symptoms. Aside from feeling too tired and sleepy the whole day, I have to wake up in the middle of the night to pee and endure leg cramps for a couple of minutes. It usually happens when I walked a lot during the day.

I also feel nauseated every morning though I haven't totally vomited yet. As I am almost twelve weeks, I am hoping that these symptoms will all stop after my twelve weeks. I am scheduled to see the doctor this weekend and I feel excited to see my baby again.

More people are already in on the big secret and they are all very delighted. I just feel like pulling the hands of time so I could feel the baby more and really looking forward to meet him or her in person!

Heartbeat

I went to the doctor again yesterday as scheduled. I had to wait for quite a while because the doctor came in at around 10am already and two other patients before me took at least half an hour each.
But when it was my turn, it didn't last that long. She asked me how I feel, if there was any bleeding or pain and I said none at all. She performed an ultrasound again and I voiced out loud if it was fine to have an ultrasound that frequent and they guaranteed that it is indeed safe.
The doctor didn't have to push the stick long and hard on my abdomen because she saw it at once. She enlarged the image and pointed it to me. From a mere dot ten days ago, the baby is now a fetus, or embryo or whatever it was called. Enlarging it once more, there was a thudding rhythm on the image. She said it was the heart. My baby now has a heart and the heart is beating fast! I can't quite explain the feeling of amazement.
Then there was another image shown beside the fetus. It was a series of lines and one portion of lines was thicker and more crooked. She explained that it was the heartbeat.
After the ultrasound, she told me that my checkup will now be on a monthly basis. I asked if it is normal to feel not so much pregnancy symptoms at all. She just told me that I am lucky not to have those.
And so I have to be back next month but she expressly told me that if there were any bleeding or pain, I have to come back immediately. I hope there won't be any of that. I just have to be extra careful and continue drinking my medicines.
Thank God for this wonderful blessing!

Maternity Clothes

Without anything else to keep me busy with, I thought of browsing some maternity clothes to get some ideas on what to wear in the next few months. I can't help feeling excited and anxious at the same time.
As what I've seen from most of the sites, maternity clothes today are mostly differently designed tops which are long and mostly body-fitting. Gone are the days when maternity clothes only meant long and loose dresses.
They now have tank tops, snug-fitting blouses and tees, designer jeans and pants and even maternity swimwear. Perhaps it's for practicality, but these maternity dresses can be what you are normally wearing nowadays since the trend today are usually long tops often made by stretch fabric.
Depending on how big I'll get, I'm planning on wearing my stretchable tank tops with some leggings and my usual collection of jackets for the coming winter. Maybe I just have to buy a couple of trousers which are not too fitting around the belly.
I can't wait for the coming weeks long enough. I sure want them to come a little faster though I know they already are.

Nothing New

I haven't felt anything new these past few days. I still am always sleepy but aside from that I haven't felt any other symptoms of pregnancy. I haven't had any morning sickness yet and I don't crave for any food.
I'm starting to ask myself if I really am already pregnant. I am tempted to take a pregnancy test again but thinking about all the other stuff I'm feeling convinces me that maybe I am really pregnant.
My breasts feel tender like I'm about to have my period and I pee more frequently than before. And of course, I am always too sleepy and maybe I am eating more than my usual. But aside from all of these, nothing else is new.
I talked to Mommy this morning and as she asked me how I am feeling, I told her nothing feels different. She said maybe I got it from her, the way she was never too delicate about her pregnancy. I certainly hope I do although others already told me that pregnancy symptoms may come late.
Maybe I just have to wait for the coming weeks and see.

Pregnancy Symptoms

Missed period
A missed menstrual period is most often the first sign of pregnancy. Sometimes a woman who is pregnant may still experience some bleeding or spotting around the time of the expected period. This small amount of bleeding that occurs at the time of the expected menstrual period happens when the fertilized egg attaches to the uterine wall and is referred to as implantation bleeding.
Any bleeding during pregnancy is typically lighter than that observed during the regular menstrual period. However, if a woman does not have regular menstrual cycles, she may notice some of the other symptoms of early pregnancy before it is apparent that the menstrual period has been missed. A missed menstrual period also does not confirm that a woman is pregnant even if she has regular cycles, since both emotional and physical conditions may cause absent or delayed periods.

Breast swelling, tenderness, and pain
Feelings of breast swelling, tenderness, or pain are also commonly associated with early pregnancy. These symptoms are sometimes similar to the sensations in the breasts in the days before an expected menstrual period. Women may also describe a feeling of heaviness or fullness in the breasts. These symptoms can begin in some women as early as one to two weeks after conception.
Nausea and vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are also common in early pregnancy. Traditionally referred to as "morning sickness," the nausea and vomiting associated with early pregnancy can occur at any time of the day or night. Its typical onset is anywhere between the 2nd and 8th weeks of pregnancy. Most women who have morning sickness develop nausea and vomiting about one month after conception, but it may develop sooner in some women.
Elevations in estrogen that occur early in pregnancy are thought to slow the emptying of the stomach and may be related to the development of nausea. Accompanying the characteristic "morning sickness" may be cravings for, or aversions to, specific foods or even smells. It is not unusual for a pregnant woman to change her dietary preferences, often having no desire to eat previous "favorite" foods. In most women, nausea and vomiting begin to subside by the second trimester of pregnancy.
Fatigue and tiredness
Fatigue and tiredness are symptoms experienced by many women in the early stages of pregnancy. The cause of this fatigue has not been fully determined, but it is believed to be related to rising levels of the hormone progesterone. Fatigue is another symptom that may be experienced early, in the first weeks after conception.
Abdominal bloating
Some women may experience feelings of abdominal enlargement or bloating, but there is usually only a small amount of weight gain in the first trimester of pregnancy. In this early stage of pregnancy a weight gain of about one pound per month is typical. Sometimes women also experience mild abdominal cramping during the early weeks of pregnancy, which may be similar to the cramping that occurs prior to or during the menstrual period.
Frequent urination
A woman in the early stages of pregnancy may feel she has to urinate frequently, especially at nighttime, and she may leak urine with a cough, sneeze, or laugh. The increased desire to urinate may have both physical and hormonal causes. Once the embryo has implanted in the uterus, it begins to produce the hormone known as human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG), which is believed to stimulate frequent urination. Another cause of frequent urination that develops later is the pressure exerted by the growing uterus on the bladder.
Elevated basal body temperature
A persistently elevated basal body temperature (the oral temperature measured first thing in the morning, before arising from bed) is another characteristic sign of early pregnancy. An elevation in the basal body temperature occurs shortly after ovulation and persists until the next menstrual period occurs. Persistence of the elevated basal body temperature beyond the time of the expected menstrual period is another sign of early pregnancy.
Changes in nipple color
Women may notice a deepening of the color of the area surrounding the nipple, called the areola and/or a dark line going down from the middle of the central abdomen area to the pubic area (known as the linea nigra). Some degree of darkening of the areola persists after pregnancy in many women, but the linea nigra typically disappears in the months following delivery of the baby.
Melasma (darkening of the skin)
Some women may develop a so-called "mask of pregnancy" in the first trimester, referring to a darkening of the skin on the forehead, bridge of the nose, upper lip, or cheekbones. The darkened skin is typically present on both sides of the face. Doctors refer to this condition as melasma or chloasma, and it is more common in darker-skinned women than those with lighter skin. Melasma can also occur in some conditions other than pregnancy. Women who have a family history of melasma are at greater risk of developing this sign of pregnancy.
Mood swings and stress
Mood swings and stress are common symptoms reported by many women in the early stages of pregnancy. Many women in the early stages of pregnancy describe feelings of heightened emotions or even crying spells. The rapid changes in hormone levels are believed to cause these changes in mood. Pregnant women may also notice more rapid and drastic changes in their moods.

Source: http://www.medicinenet.com/pregnancy_symptoms/article.htm

How will my baby develop week by week?

At 4 weeks:
* Your baby's brain and spinal cord have begun to form.
* The heart begins to form.
* Arm and leg buds appear.
* Your baby is now an embryo and 1/25 of an inch long.

At 8 weeks:
* All major organs and external body structures have begun to form.
* Your baby's heart beats with a regular rhythm.
* The arms and legs grow longer, and fingers and toes have begun to form.
* The sex organs begin to form.
* The eyes have moved forward on the face and eyelids have formed.
* The umbilical cord is clearly visible.
* At the end of 8 weeks, your baby is a fetus and looks more like a human. Your baby is nearly 1 inch long and weighs less than 1/8 of an ounce.

At 12 weeks:
* The nerves and muscles begin to work together. Your baby can make a fist.
* The external sex organs show if your baby is a boy or girl. A woman who has an ultrasound in the second trimester or later might be able to find out the baby's sex.
* Eyelids close to protect the developing eyes. They will not open again until the 28th week.
* Head growth has slowed, and your baby is much longer. Now, at about 3 inches long, your baby weighs almost an ounce.

Source: http://www.medicinenet.com/pregnancy/page4.htm#develop

Kinda Grumpy

I was not able to sleep very soundly last night. But I had to get up early in the morning to prepare for work. I dragged myself in the shower while feeling so lazy and queasy. I felt like throwing up again but I actually didn't.
When I arrived in the office, I ate my pasta which is supposed to be my lunch. I don't know how will I go on with my whole day feeling sleepy, and without doing anything. And most unfortunately, Facebook is already blocked and so I have nothing else to busy myself with.
I don't feel any different though. Aside from the "throwing up feeling" this morning and extreme sleepiness, I don't think there will be any new development about my pregnancy in the next few days.

Confirmed

At last the day of the checkup arrived. I actually went on Friday but the doctor was not in. I just listed my name and it was a good thing that I did because on Saturday morning, there are already a lot of other patients in the clinic.
I was the second one listed and when my name was called I hurried into the room with Karl but found out that it was just the preliminary checkup, weight and blood pressure and those sort of things. After five minutes, I was ushered into the next room where the Obstetrician was. She immediately confirmed that I am pregnant. She discussed about the delivery date which is June 8, +/- 2 weeks. I can go home in the Philippines from April 13-28 and that she will give me a certificate three days before the flight.
Dra. Montecillo then performed my ultrasound test. As I lie on my back, I saw my insides in the monitor. She pointed where is my uterus and the black dot which is the baby's home. The very tiny white dot inside the black is my baby. I can't imagine that it was such so tiny but is definitely a baby already. A new life, deep inside of me.
There is no clear picture yet and there is no heartbeat yet but she assured me that the baby is there and okay. She asked me to come back after ten days and gave me some medications.
I called the family in the afternoon to bring the good news. Of course, they already knew as I've called them on Friday. They were all happy and excited of course and asked me to take it easy and relax and take care.

Postponed

We woke up early on Friday to see a doctor. We found the clinic alright but told that there was no doctor on Fridays. I just listed my name and was told to come back the following day.
As we were already out, we decided to check some other doctors but unluckily, most are not available on Fridays. So the announcement was postponed until tomorrow. I felt sleepy in the afternoon and was just dozing off when I received a text from Jho asking me to call because she's already in the house. And so I called and after a few exchange of greetings, I made the big announcement. Mommy was of course, ecstatic. Then she told Daddy that he's going to be a "lolo" already. Funny though, Daddy said he had the cards played for him and was told that a baby is coming so he was not that surprised about my announcement.I told all of them that I will have my checkup the following day and will just update them.
I was able to talk to Tyrone for a few minutes via chat. He confirmed my announcement and he was happy to have a "true" nephew or niece. He then gave me advices to take care, not to carry heavy things, and eat healthy foods.
It was a great day for announcements but all is yet to be unfold tomorrow.

Surprised and Unsurprised

There was no hiding it. Mama Sarah found out about the big secret when I called Ate Lei this morning. She said she found out when they were talking about it. All the usual advices on taking care and being very careful.
I don't feel too sleepy today, unlike yesterday when my eyes were really drooping. This morning though, my stomach felt so queasy and I felt like throwing up. It felt like it the whole morning and I had to chew a gum to distract myself. Luckily though I was able to prevent it. But I don't know until when I can prevent it from happening.
Tomorrow will be the confirmation day. I will definitely go to the doctor tomorrow and have my very first checkup. I'm feeling kind of anxious. Cross fingers!

What is the first trimester (week 1-week 12)?

During the first trimester your body undergoes many changes. Hormonal changes affect almost every organ system in your body. These changes can trigger symptoms even in the very first weeks of pregnancy. Your period stopping is a clear sign that you are pregnant. Other changes may include:
• Extreme tiredness
• Tender, swollen breasts. Your nipples might also stick out.
• Upset stomach with or without throwing up (morning sickness)
• Cravings or distaste for certain foods
• Mood swings
• Constipation (trouble having bowel movements)
• Need to pass urine more often
• Headache
• Heartburn
• Weight gain or loss
As your body changes, you might need to make changes to your daily routine, such as going to bed earlier or eating frequent, small meals. Fortunately, most of these discomforts will go away as your pregnancy progresses. And some women might not feel any discomfort at all! If you have been pregnant before, you might feel differently this time around. Just as each woman is different, so is each pregnancy.

Source:http://www.medicinenet.com/pregnancy/article.htm

Extremely Sleepy

Thank God, my head was not throbbing with pain yesterday. But my sleepiness was extremely too hard to bear! I slept earlier than usual and woke up at the same time to go to work. At around 10am, I started to yawn one after another.
I walked around, drank water, went to the toilets, but my eyes still wanted to shut. Good thing though that I was able to hold it in until the office hours were finished. I felt like a zombie walking and talking.
I wonder what would it be like for me today? I plan to have my checkup earlier than Friday so we can tell the world of our great news.

Headaches

Maybe this is for real. I'm starting to feel the symptoms. I got headache almost the whole day yesterday. Thankfully, I haven't experienced throwing up yet and I'm really hoping I won't. I can't imagine how will I manage especially when I'm here in the office and the toilets are one story away.
I don't have plans of using my last remaining test but I will definitely see the doctor on weekend. As of now, I don't feel anything different except of the throbbing headache and excessive tiredness and sleepiness. I started to sleep an hour earlier than usual but I still felt sleepy the following day.
I wanted to tell the whole world already but I must really keep myself from doing so. At least for a couple more weeks, or days maybe. But if I can't help myself from spilling the beans, there's no point holding back. I am so happy that I wanted the world to know.

The Third Time Constant

Karl let the housemates in on the big secret. Of course, everyone felt happy for me. We all feel a little overexcited. I also called Ate Lei and told her about it. She was happy for me and Karl but I told her not to spill the beans to anyone yet. We had to be one hundred percent sure.
Last night though, I got a bit worried. There was one or two drops of blood again when I peed. I tried to check how I feel but there was no pain. I just assumed that it was just normal and decided to take another test in the morning.
When I woke up this morning, I tested again. The result was the same- two stripes meaning positive. I texted Ate Lei and asked about it and she told me that spotting was normal but there should really be no blood as much as possible. If there was any pain, I should get myself checked at once.
And now I am trying to be really careful about my actions. We are already two that I have to care for now.

Expectedly Unexpected

And so I promised myself I'll be creating this blog when it happened. And it just did. I have been quite anxious these past few days about my condition. I have never been delayed this late before nor such thing ever happened before. I had my last period last September 1 and I was expecting it to arrive on October 1 naturally. It didn't. On the 6th, however, I saw blood when I peed and thought that my period was just five days late. But the bleeding did not continue as I expected and so I had some whim that it might have happened at last.
Last night, I finally found the courage to do the test with the pregnancy kit I have bought a few months back. Karl was in the shower when I took the test and seeing the results, my initial reaction was- I wasted my 15 dirhams for the test, I saw two stripes. I was about to throw the kit and decided to see the box again. There it was- two stripes meant positive! I couldn't get a grip on what I just saw and screamed! I showed it to Karl and he could not believe it either. He asked me to do the test again with the new kit I just bought that evening. I was actually kind of saving the new one because it was quite expensive. But then I went ahead and did it for the second time. The result was the same- positive!
There are no words to explain what I was feeling. And by the looks on Karl's face, he was in terrible shock too! Though we have planned having a baby, we never really expected that it would come too soon. Just as what we have planned.
Maybe it's still too early to confirm but maybe this is really it. I plan to take another test after three days and if the results are the same, I'm going to see a doctor next weekend.