Our rainbow is turning ONE

In a few days, our rainbow is turning ONE. Amidst the busy preparations that I am currently doing, I thought about this blog and when I will publish this. I actually started to write since our first IVF in May 2013 in order to document the procedure. While undergoing IVF, I do not have any peer support. And to be honest, the doctors' schedule is always busy that I can't even obtain proper answers to my questions or assurance to my worries. The internet is my bestfriend as I would usually conduct my research here. I found helpful information on other people's IVF experiences by reading their blogs or going through community message boards. Finding people with the same experiences as ours (some of them even worse!) who are now parents to rainbow babies-- gave us a lot of encouragement. In the same way, I am hoping that this blog will reach all the couples who are currently struggling to have a baby.. who are at the brink of giving up! Our story is a testimony that there is hope. There is always a beautiful and bright RAINBOW after the storm, just BELIEVE!



But prayers are more powerful with ACTION. In our case, the removal of both my fallopian tubes has left me incapable of conceiving naturally. Therefore, I need to take an action and undergo IVF in order to have a biological child. After conceiving (on IVF #2) and experiencing a miscarriage (at 17 weeks), we knew that we need to take more precautionary measures in order to achieve a healthy pregnancy and deliver a healthy baby. Therefore, after getting pregnant again (on IVF#4), I had a cervical cerclage (they put a stitch on my cervix to prevent it from opening prematurely) and I took a lot of medicines including a daily injection of Clexane until 36 weeks! I was also on modified bed rest throughout the pregnancy, leaving the house only for hospital check-ups.

All these efforts and "pricks" paid off the moment our baby is born. He was born a few days after my cerclage was removed, just before my 38th week. He is a healthy baby boy, a wonderful creation of God!



And now, our baby is almost ONE year old! He is our source of inspiration and happiness.. our Rainbow and God's gift!

Finally, our RAINBOW is born

It was exactly 37w4d and 3 days after the removal of my cerclage when our baby was born. I actually have a scheduled appointment at 1pm. However, when I woke up my mucus plug was expelled together with some fresh blood. I waited for some time to observe if more blood will come out. I have experienced some spotting ever since the removal of my cerclage. But today, there was a significant increase in blood discharge. Though I am not feeling any pain at the moment. I also tried to check my baby's movements. He was very active during the night. That morning however, I cannot feel his movements.. Perhaps he is just sleeping. I called my husband. He just arrived at the office but he immediately went home to check on me.

Around 8am, we decided to go to the hospital. We went to the emergency area. They admitted me right away and called for my doctor. I was transferred to the delivery room. I changed into the hospital gown and they put the CTG on me to monitor my baby. My baby is okay.

My doctor came and checked the status of my cervix. I was 2 cm dilated. She said that labor has started. I was given a medicine to encourage active labor. In the initial hours, I was not feeling any pain. But after 2 or 3 hours, I started to feel more contractions, though the pain is still bearable. I want to eat but was afraid of taking food as I thought I might be taken to the operating room for emergency CS. I just took sips of water but have only taken a very light breakfast. After 4 hours, the pain started to get more intense. The nurses are checking on me from time to time. Whenever I say that I am in pain, they will reply back that "pain is good." There is a "laughing gas" beside my bed and the nurse told me to use it if the contraction is unbearable anymore. I started to inhale it when I can't tolerate the pain any longer. But the nurse told me to limit my usage because it won't be effective anymore. She saw me practically inhaling it without pause!

After 5 hours, the pain was too much that I started to tell my husband that I feel like dying! My husband was beside me all throughout. He was holding my hands and asks me to be strong.. that our mothers have endured the pain so I too can handle it. But he also asked the nurses to tell my doctor if I could have a CS. However, my doctor is determined that I can give birth by normal delivery.

Six hours later, I was crying in pain (but no tears came out)! Again, my husband begged for CS delivery because he too can't see me in so much pain. The nurses were also worried about me after learning my previous pregnancy losses. They, too, were trying to convince my doctor that perhaps it would be better for me to have the CS delivery. My doctor was in her clinic (in the other floor) during my labor and they are just calling her phone to update her of my status.

After some time, the midwife / head nurse came and tried to calm us down. She assured us that the pain will be over soon. She was preparing the things needed for my delivery when all of a sudden I felt the pain beyond I can imagine. It was just unbearable that I shouted my cries! And I think that was the indication that my baby is already coming out. The midwife instructed me to hold on and don't push. I tried to follow but there's really a very strong urge to push to relieve the pain. It was like involuntary! Immediately, my doctor arrived. She instructed me to breath and then push with my mouth closed. On her cue, I pushed with all my might. I can't remember how many minutes passed but I think it wasn't long when I felt that I have ejected my baby's head already. And then after several more pushes, my baby was out into the world! All the pain was immediately replaced by pure bliss as soon as I felt my baby's warmth when my doctor placed him on my belly. I remember saying "Thank you Lord" over and over again. I caught sight of the new Daddy and it was the first time that I have seen him cry.. of course it was tears of joy! Dr. Mary told me that it was the first time that she has seen my husband worry-free and so happy.

Removal of cervical cerclage

At week 37, my cerclage was removed. I had a day surgery only and was released in the evening. I was under general anesthesia so I didn't feel anything. The procedure took around 30 minutes (from the time i was awake). I had some bleeding afterwards and it was a bit painful when I'm urinating.

Like the usual surgery under general anesthesia, I was asked to fast for at least 8 hours-- no food and drinks after 12mn. We went to the hospital at 7am and was immediately prepared for the procedure. They gave me dextrose and have given me the ampicillin skin test injection. They also checked my baby's status via CTG. My baby has been actively moving since last night. But during the CTG, he's not moving so well so they have to repeat it. Therefore, my surgery was delayed from 10:15am to 11:30am.

After the procedure, my doctor instructed that I can only pass urine and eat my lunch after 2 hours. I was so hungry and want so much to pee. Finally, I was given a bed pan to relieve my urine. My baby has been active since after the surgery. Probably because he wants me to eat. I had some bleeding (bright red every time I urinate. The doctor said that it is normal because of the stitch removal. If it becomes heavier, then i need to be back to the hospital immediately. She also told me to be back should I feel that my baby is not moving, if my water breaks or if I have frequent contractions or severe cramping. Otherwise, we'll have to wait for labor to come. My follow up appointment is after 3 days. She will also be monitoring me twice a week to be sure that my baby is doing well.

Third trimester

Week 28
Finally, we have reached the third trimester! I had an ultrasound scan at 28 weeks. My baby is healthy. However, the abdominal circumference (AC), which indicates fetal weight, is a bit off (by 1 week) so the doctor told me to take 3 egg whites a day in order to boost my protein intake. By the way, I started to feel my baby while having hiccups. He's so cute! I can feel the rhythmic pulse of his hiccups. He's getting more active everyday. He's actually more active during the night.

Week 31
I had a detailed ultrasound scan at 31 weeks. My baby is healthy, heartbeat is normal, heart is normal, and blood flow is normal. The AC is still off by 1 week so I need to continue taking 3 egg whites a day. The radiologist said that my baby's AC is not alarming and that some babies will measure a bit late or a bit advanced. When I saw my doctor, she said that everything is okay but not completely fine. She said that in my case, from the start, nothing is normal. So she needs to monitor me closely in order to know the right diagnosis for my case. I will be subjected to more ultrasound and doppler scans before every appointment. She also asked me to take the GTT (glucose tolerance test), just to rule out diabetes.

I asked her about my birth plan. She said that at this point, she cannot say anything yet. But we will still strive for a normal delivery. However, if things don't go smoothly, I need to be prepared to take CS delivery. By the way, during the detailed scan, we asked the radiologist to check our baby's gender again. She confirmed that we are having a baby boy!

At 31 weeks, I started to have frequent leg cramps, acid reflux, more discharge, baby hiccups, stronger kicks, and stretch marks. My baby bump is getting bigger and I am becoming larger! I can feel my bump getting heavier now. I take extra careful when walking especially while taking a bath. I am actually sitting in a chair while in the shower!

By the way, my parents left but my mother-in-law came and stayed with us. My parents will be back before my due date. I was still on modified bed rest and just staying at home. I found a new hobby to get me through my everyday mundane life-- making my baby some crochet clothes (mittens, hats, and shoes). I learned the basics of crocheting when I was in school. I found some video tutorials from YouTube and modified some patterns to suit my preference. I was getting more and more excited while doing the crafts and imagining how my baby would look like wearing them!

Week 33
I was back in the hospital at 33 weeks. I had a detailed ultrasound with doppler. All is fine. Baby is healthy. AC is still behind by a week as well as the femur length. But the head is ahead by a week. I also have placental calcification which shouldn't be present till around 36 weeks! It just means that my placenta is maturing earlier than it should which may affect the supply of blood at oxygen especially when the patient is diabetic or has high blood pressure. The doctor is not so alarmed but said that I just needed to be monitored closely. He told me to stop taking Aspirin after a week. My next appointment is after 2 weeks.

Week 35
My doctor is back from her emergency leave. She saw the ultrasound result during my last check-up (at 33 weeks) and said that baby is okay but the placenta might not support the baby till due date. I need to be closely monitored twice a week and do a regular CTG and ultrasound. Aspirin and Clexane injection will be stopped by next week; while Cyclogest suppository will be stopped by 37th  week. My cerclage will be removed at 37th week.

I had my first CTG today. They attached a device to detect my baby's heartbeat. I was given a button that i need to press every time i feel my baby move. We went back to Dr. Mary after. She said that my CTG result is good; my baby is doing fine. By the way, I am having trouble sleeping since after the New Year. I don't know if it's just because of excitement. I feel like a zombie!

Week 36
Yey! I finally graduated from my daily Clexane injections and Aspirin! Right now, I'm just taking my prenatal vitamins, calcium, and progesterone suppositories. My check up yesterday is good. My CTG is good; baby is doing fine. I just got stalled a bit in the CTG room because my baby is not moving initially so I have to drink water and change positions first before we achieved the right amount of fetal movements. My husband asked our doctor if we could have an elective CS because he is worried that there may be a problem after I stop Clexane and Aspirin and when my cerclage is removed. But the doctor said that we need not worry because she is monitoring me closely. She said that after the removal of my cerclage, she will keep me in the hospital for at least a day so she could monitor my baby. Her aim is to at least keep our baby brewing for 38 weeks. Then she will decide what will happen next, depending of what our status is. So just hang in there baby! 2 weeks is just around the corner!

Yay! I'm getting more and more excited! I already arranged our hospital bags (one for the baby, and one for me). I've also almost completed my checklist and just waiting for a few items to be delivered. My eldest sister has pledged the stroller for my baby. We'll buy it together with the car seat. I asked my other sister to buy for me some of the baby products that I cannot find in here. She also gave me my baby bags. I received a lot of pre-loved clothes from my dear friend in Oz and from my sister-in-law. So we only bought a few sets of newborn clothes.

I can feel that my baby has started to descend. I can feel his movements in my pelvic floor. He's usually very active around 12mn to 2am. I describe it as my baby "partying". Sometimes I even feel quite alarmed because his "kicks" are so intense-- it's as if he's trying to make his way out of my uterus.

Week 37
My doppler ultrasound result is all good. AC and FL is still behind by a week while the head measurement is advanced by a week. My doctor said that everything is normal and that my baby is on a good weight range. He is now around 6.5 lbs.. Yey! Very good baby! The egg whites have surely taken effect. My cervical length is at 4.2cm.. I thought that it has already started to shorten. My baby is still very active especially at night. Good thing that i am getting my regular naps in the morning and afternoon. I am also suffering from heartburn so I am taking Gaviscon when I feel like I can't handle it at bedtime.

Second Trimester

My second trimester is generally more relaxed compared to the first trimester. The cervical cerclage reassured us that my cervix won't open prematurely and cause a sudden miscarriage-- just like what I have experience during my previous pregnancy. We have also asked my parents to come over so I won't need to move around the house to cook or do the household chores. They came here just before my cervical cerclage operation. So from then on, I was on bed rest. I was confined in the four corners of our house, leaving only when it's time for our hospital check up. Per doctor's advice, I limited myself on my internet usage and refrained from reading too much regarding pregnancy complications. Looking back, I can't imagine how I spent this trimester with limited activities on house-arrest and kept my sanity!

I guess what kept me from losing my mind is having this positive thought that in a few months time, we will be with our healthy baby! At 17 weeks, I also started to feel his movements. I am so thrilled whenever I feel them. But I think it's only around 20 weeks when the movements were more pronounced that my husband can see/feel them too.

My hospital check ups were scheduled every 4 weeks. I had an anomaly (detailed) scan by the radiologist at 20 weeks. She made a thorough scan of everything. We're very happy that the results are all normal and our baby is healthy. During the scan, our baby's legs are closed so she can only confirm with 80% accuracy that our baby is a boy. My husband is so glad upon hearing this, although honestly, the gender is not that important. What matters is that we have a healthy and normal baby!

At week 20, I stopped taking Prednisolon. But I am still taking Duphaston, Aspirin and Clexane injections daily, together with my prenatal vitamins and calcium. I have experienced getting heartburn again so I am taking Gaviscon when needed.

At week 24, my OB is on leave so I consulted the other high risk doctor instead. The ultrasound scan showed that our baby is healthy with healthy heartbeat. All measurements are normal, the chambers of the heart are normal and blood flow is normal. He also said that our baby's gender is boy. I stopped taking Duphaston as per my doctor's instructions.

Cervical cerclage

Cervical cerclage or cervical stitch is a non-invasive operation for cervical incompetence or insufficiency. My doctors are convinced that I have a weak cervix after having a miscarriage at 17 weeks. Therefore, in order to prevent another miscarriage, they are recommending that I have my cervix stitched. Yes, literally "stitched" (but of course under a general anesthesia)!

So after passing on all my clinical tests, I was scheduled to have my cervical cerclage at 12 weeks GA. I was asked to fast from 12 midnight and discontinue taking aspirin, prednisolon, and clexane injection.

My operation is at 9am but I was asked to check-in at 7am. After changing to the hospital gown, I was injected progesterone oil in the butt and allergy-check shot in my forearm. The nurse also fixed my IV. The nurse tried to check baby's heartbeat via doppler but failed to hear it. I felt nervous but tried to stay calm. She ordered an ultrasound machine instead so my baby can be checked before the operation.

I was wheeled to operating room at 9am. The operation started past 9am because we waited for the ultrasound machine to arrive first. I was given general anesthesia and was down before I finished counting from 1 to 10!

I was wheeled back to the private room after an hour or 2. I was on strict bed rest-- no sitting, standing or walking. I may pee using a bed pan only (while lying down). I had minor bleeding but no disturbing pain. I continued with all my medicines except for Clexane, Aspirin and Prednisolon. I have new medicines for recovery: Coamoxiclav (2x daily), Metronidazole (2x daily), Duphaston (3x daily).

The next day, I was still on strict bed rest but I can go to the bathroom with assistance. My doctor came by to check me up. She described how terrible my cervix was and that she has to put a more sturdy stitch. She said that there was also a lot of bleeding when she put the stitch that she has to press for a while in order to stop the bleeding (perhaps this is due to the blood thinners that I am taking). But overall, the operation went well. She told us that she checked on our baby before and after the operation.

I was discharged from hospital the following day around noon. We went to see our baby at my doctor's office. Our baby is doing well-- kicking and jumping! I was advised to continue with all my meds except for Aspirin and Clexane (but continue taking after 1 week). I was also advised to continue bed rest, drink plenty of fluids and avoid constipation.

First trimester

9-Jun-14
First ultrasound scan @ 5w1d

In the beginning, there were two! We are very thrilled when we saw two gestational sacs on the screen. But our worries never stop at this positive confirmation. After experiencing a miscarriage (at 17 weeks), our anxiety ends only when our baby is born.

14-Jun-14
Second ultrasound scan @ 5w6d

One gestational sac (right) has a visible yolk sac already. Thank God, my doctor told me that I can stop taking the Progesterone injection (my butt rejoices)! Although, I still have to continue taking all my medicines including the "bee sting" Clexane injection!

25-Jun-14
Third ultrasound scan @ 7w3d

There are still two visible gestational sacs (one GS is not shown in the picture). However, my doctor still cannot find any developments inside one of the GS. The picture shows our Baby A, together with the yolk sac inside the GS. This is my last appointment in the IVF clinic.

8-Jul-14
First OB appointment (outside the IVF clinic) @ 9w2d
I tried to search for an OB who specializes in high-risk pregnancy and has background in IVF. I found two doctors in the hospital where I plan to give birth. One of them is a male doctor, so I chose to see the lady doctor. The first time I saw her, I knew that she is good. It's also comforting that she listened with concern on my pregnancy history. She said that we have gone through a lot and we need to be more careful and take all the necessary precautions in order to achieve a safe delivery. She agreed to my IVF doctor's advice on all the medicines that I am taking (aspirin, prednisolon, clexane injection and progesterone suppository) including the plan to put a cervical cerclage at the end of the first trimester (12 weeks). We asked about the bad side effects of the medicines especially on our baby(ies). She said that the negative effects (if any) outweighs the advantages. She also testified that other high risk pregnant women delivered healthy babies with the aid of these medicines. My doctor said that it's good that I am not working and asked me to take extra care especially after having a sudden miscarriage on my last pregnancy. She prohibited me on staying too long on the internet and reading too much or stressing myself. She advised me to just take it easy and pray.


My ultrasound scan still showed two GS. The other sac is still empty and its growth has slowed down. Our doctor said that there is only a minimal risk on the other embryo and normally, my body would just absorb the empty sac as my pregnancy develops. She also observed some bleeding, which might be because of the empty sac.

22-Jul-14
Targetted scan @ 11w2d
The purpose of this appointment is to check my baby's status before I undergo an operation for the cervical cerclage.

This scan is more detailed and was performed by a radiologist. My baby is healthy, active (yes I saw him moving!), and perfect! Nuchal translucency (NT) is 14mm, which is on the normal range. NT is used in the early detection of down syndrome. So we are glad that our baby is normal and healthy.
My blood and urine test results are all good. Although my swab test showed that I have some infection. Therefore, I was advised to take betadine suppository in addition to all the medicines that I am taking.

The 2-week wait (for IVF #4)

Just like in my previous IVF cycles, the two-week wait (to know if I am pregnant or not) is one of the most suspense-filled weeks throughout our journey. After the embryos are transferred in my uterus, all I can do is to pray for a miracle to happen. And when I am praying, I am already claiming for my baby/ies. I am thinking of positive thoughts. I am dreaming of holding my baby/ies while breastfeeding.

Based on the current status of embryo development (refer to my previous blog entry: 2-week wait (for IVF#2)), I am trying to live each day by imagining how the embryos inside me grow, develop, and divide into multiple cells. I would caress my belly and talk to them. I would tell them how excited I am to take care of them. I would tell them to stick inside my uterus and hold on.. hold on until the end.. hold on and never leave me.

I also eat the recommended foods for implantation -- pineapple and nuts. I drink plenty of water, sleep early, and eat well. I am getting hungry easily because of the medicines that I am taking. My medicines are: Cyclogest 400mg suppository (3x daily), Progyluton white tabs (2x daily), Aspimed 75mg (once daily), Prednisolon 5mg (2x daily), and Clexane 20mg injection (once daily).

Five days after the embryo transfer, I was given Pregnyl and Progesterone injections. These medicines were recommended in order to boost my hormones to support the implantation and supposed pregnancy. Since I'm already used to receiving daily shots, Pregnyl injection doesn't hurt anymore. However, the progesterone shot does hurt because it seems like oil. After receiving the shot on my buttocks, it feels like one butt is heavier than the other! At night, I need to massage it and sometimes put hot compress so it won't feel solid and heavy. The bad news is that I need to take this injection every other day! Ouch! Anyway, I'm prepared to take anything just to have a positive pregnancy!

Eight days after the embryo transfer, I had light spotting (pink reddish) especially after inserting my suppository. I also experience minor cramping on my right side during the night. I often feel hot especially in the evening. I read that spotting is sometimes a good indication for positive pregnancy. It is called implantation bleeding. However, it may also be a sign that my period is just around the corner. But I try to think of it as implantation bleeding.

There were times that while touching my tummy, it seems like I'm feeling a pulse that I associate with my embryos' fetal sound. I know that they don't have heartbeat yet because it's still too early, but I just can't help but feel more positive that our embryos are growing and developing inside!

Ten days after the embryo transfer, I had my blood tested for pregnancy. We went to the clinic first thing in the morning and have to wait for their call in the afternoon for the result. I try to suppress my excitement and nervousness by diverting my time to other things and of course, by trying to talk to my embryos. I usually bring out the ultrasound copy of my transferred embryos and imagine them waving at me. At 6pm, my mobile phone rang and the Filipina nurse is on the other end of the line. She told me that my beta Hcg is 109 -- definitely a BFP (Big Fat Positive)!! Yey! Thank you Lord! I was told to continue to take the same medicines and next blood test will be after 4 days.

Four days later, I had my blood test again. This time, I was not nervous anymore because I am confident that the numbers will be good. Normally, the beta Hcg should double every 2 days. So I am expecting the result to be around 400+. The nurse called in the afternoon saying that my beta Hcg is 829! Yey! Super thank you Lord! It seems like the number is quite high so I got more excited as we might have twins!

Eighteen days post embryo transfer, my blood test resulted to a bHcg of 3,982! Wow! I am really pregnant! I am scheduled to have my ultrasound after two days. We are super thrilled to find out how many are there. Although having just one is more than enough for us!

IVF #4

We started IVF #4 in May after having a cancelled cycle (IVF #3) in February. We waited for two normal menstruation period before we decided that we're ready for our next IVF cycle. Going through our fourth IVF cycle feels like a routine already. The staff especially the Filipina nurses seem like old acquaintances. I was booked to a new doctor because my doctor's schedule is full. Since I already know the protocol, I agreed to see her.

The doctor performed an ultrasound scan and saw 3 small follicles on my ovary (a good sign!). I had my blood test and then received my first injection (Ceftriaxone antibiotics). I took home the Gonapeptyl injections (once a day for 2 days) because I want to take the shots at around the same time each day. I was also prescribed to take folic acid 5mg (daily) and antibiotic (Duradox 100mg 2x a day for 5 days).

I went back on Day 4 and saw my original doctor. We insisted that we follow the same medications as IVF #2 since that was the cycle when I had a positive pregnancy. My doctor agreed. I will start Pergoveris 300 IU injection on Day 5 and be back for appointment on Day 6.

If you haven't read my IVF #2 blog entries, Pergoveris is used to increase the number of growing follicles and stimulate their development. Follicles contain the egg cells. The aim of stimulating the ovaries in IVF is to ensure the simultaneous development of several follicles instead of just one in order to be able to collect several oocytes (immature egg cell) and to thus obtain several embryos so that at least one of them with a good morphology can be transferred back to the woman's uterus.

On Day 6, my ultrasound scan is looking good. Four follicles are seen, the biggest measuring 10mm. My endometrial lining is 6.3mm. My blood test results are also good. My doctor prescribed the same medicine (Pergoveris 300 IU) for 3 days.

On Day 9, 5 follicles are seen with the biggest measuring 14mm. My lining is 10mm. My blood test results are still great. It's good that we decided to stick with the same medication as IVF #2. My doctor prescribed the same medicine (Pergoveris 300 IU) for 2 days. I met with the anesthesiologist before leaving the clinic. They now require the patients to see the anesthesiologist before the Egg Collection procedure (also called OPU - Ooctyte pick-up). The doctor took note of my height and weight (if you're curious, I'm weighing 55kg that time). She also asked about medical history, etc.

On Day 11, 5 follicles are seen with the biggest measuring 17mm. My blood test is still good. My doctor prescribed the same medicine (Pergoveris 300 IU) for 2 days. 

On Day 13, 5 follicles are seen with the biggest measuring 19mm. I need to take one more shot of Pergoveris tonight and then the trigger shot (2 injections of Ovitrelle 0.5ml) will be the next day at 10:20 PM. 

The trigger shot is used for the final maturation stage of the follicles. I took 2 injections – left and right tummy. Timing is very important when taking this medicine. The OPU or Egg collection should be done 34-36hours after the trigger shot. Mine is scheduled on Sunday (Day 16) 10.20AM. I was advised to come to the clinic an hour earlier for the preparations before the procedure. Some precautions were also advised such as: no perfume, lotion, nail polish and feminine wash before the procedure and fasting for at least 8 hours before the procedure.

My OPU or egg collection procedure is the same as what I had described on my IVF #2 blog entry. I will leave out the details regarding the procedure so please refer to my earlier post for more information. The entire procedure is painless because I was under general anesthesia. Seven follicles were collected (this is a good number!). I was prescribed to start taking Cyclogest suppositories thrice daily. By the way, on the same day, my husband gave his semen sample in the clinic.

The next day, the embryologist called me and gave me an update. Out of 7 eggs collected, 5 are matured and out of those, 4 are successfully fertilized.

My Embryo Transfer is scheduled on Day 19. I was initially booked with another doctor but when my original doctor recognized my name on the list, she asked to be assigned to me instead. My doctor showed me the picture of my "babies" on the monitor while I was lying in the operating theatre. She asked me how many embryos do I want to be transferred. During my previous IVF cycles, they transferred 2 embryos only. But my doctor is saying that 3 embryos are still safe so that I would have a higher chance of getting pregnant. At that time, I was thrilled to have twins and very much okay with having just one; but the idea of having triplets terrified me! She said that the probability of having 3 is very slim. I never really thought that I would have to decide on this alone. Even if I wanted to consult my husband, I wasn't given enough time ask him. So, I gave the okay to transfer 3 embryos while praying that God will give us at least one but not all 3. I was prescribed with the same medications as my previous cycles - Cyclogest 400mg suppository (3x daily) and Progyluton white tabs (2x daily). Being aware of my previous miscarriage (after IVF #2), my doctor prescribed additional medicines that are believed to have helped other patients with similar case. So in addition to my usual medicines, I have to take Aspimed 75mg (once daily), Prednisolon 5mg (2x daily), and Clexane 20mg injection (once daily).

So, here comes the agonizing two-week wait (waiting till we find out if we are pregnant or not).

Before IVF #4

So after our cancelled cycle (IVF #3), I started spotting 12 days after our last appointment. It lasted for 4 days and didn't get heavy at all. So I don't think it is a proper menstruation period. My spotting was on and off on the next 3 days so I booked an appointment with my doctor. I had a blood test and ultrasound. My blood test resulted to negative pregnancy. (Although it is highly unlikely, they have to rule out that I am pregnant.) My doctor has seen some small dots on my uterus and suggested another scan by a radiologist.

After a second opinion from a radiologist, I was cleared. Though my scan still contained those small dots. My doctor suggested that I undergo hysteroscopy again so she can check my uterus first before starting the next cycle. My husband and I discussed about it first because it means that we need to take an additional expense again, not knowing if this will be beneficial to the success of the next IVF. So after thinking about it, we decided to risk it and proceed with the next IVF cycle without undergoing hysteroscopy.

My doctor prescribed Progyluton tablets so my period will be regularized. She said that as soon as I have my regular period back, we could start the next cycle. We decided to have 2 regular menstruation period first before undergoing IVF #4.

IVF #3

It has been a few months since I last created an entry. It’s actually good that the months flew by so quickly and before I knew it, we are back again in the IVF clinic for our IVF#3. 

When the nurses and assistants saw me, they thought that I have already delivered my baby. I told them about my miscarriage and they all felt sad. My doctor was also shocked when she saw me and she told me that I should have called her before. I actually thought on giving her a call but then after postponing (and hesitating because she seems to be always busy), I totally forgot about it. 

Just like my previous IVF cycles, IVF#3 begins with an ultrasound scan. On the first appointment, I had my trans-V scan and after checking my uterus and ovary, my doctor said that I could start immediately. For 2 days I will be injected with Gonapeptyl and then be back after 4 days for another scan.

After 4 days, I was back in the clinic. I had my blood test and ultrasound and then was prescribed to take Gonal300 for the next 4 days. Since we paid for the full package, we are getting all the medicines from them and my husband administers the shots on my tummy (after 2 IVF cycles, I am still afraid of seeing the needle enter my skin!).

We were back on Day 9 and only one follicle was seen. This is not a good indicator. The goal in IVF is to harvest more than one egg/follicle so that there's a greater chance of success. My doctor is still hopeful that on the next days, more follicles will grow and mature. I was prescribed to continue taking Gonal300 for the next 3 days.

On Day 12, there's still only one dominant follicle. My body did not respond well on the medicine. My doctor suggested to cancel the cycle as there is a lower chance of conception with only one egg. There is also no point of going through the complete cycle (the egg collection, fertilization, and embryo transfer).

Accepting the failed IVF #3 is easier that IVF #1 where we completed the cycle but resulted to negative pregnancy. We were of course sad of the outcome but still determined and looking forward to the next IVF cycle (IVF #4).

Since the cycle is cancelled, my doctor said that I will go through the normal menstruation period. She also said that we can start the next IVF cycle as soon as I get my period. We also asked if there's a way to boost my ovary so I can have healthier eggs. She prescribed supplements called DHEA 50mg (twice daily) and L-arginine 1g (daily) for a month.

A month after miscarriage: sanity check

It has been over a month now since baby Aedam passed away. My period has not yet arrived. I read that the next period would be delayed.. sometimes up to 6 weeks.. so I am not yet alarmed.

We had our follow up check with our OB last 23-Nov-13. The laboratory results of the pregnancy tissues came out to be normal. We still haven’t received the genetic testing. The doctor said it will be ready around 12-Dec-13. It takes a month for the results to come out. We discussed again what might be the cause of my miscarriage and how it will be prevented in the next pregnancy. My OB said that on my next pregnancy, she recommends me to take Duphaston 10mg (2x a day) and Aspirin (daily) till 24 weeks. A cervical cerclage is also advised after the NT scan (usually around 13 weeks). Additionally, she proposes Clexane 40mg injection till 38 weeks. We asked whether there are tests to determine first if I really need to take these medicines (especially the Aspirin and Clexane). She said that there are blood tests but they are not covered by insurance. These tests are: Antiphospholipid antibody, Anticordiolipin antibody, Lupus anticoagulant, Protein C, Protein S, and TORCH panel. My OB said that should we decide to have these tests, I should wait after I get my period.

My OB also required me to have an ultrasound just to make sure that all the pregnancy tissues are ejected. On 28-Nov-13, I had my ultrasound. We have originally scheduled that day to be our 20-week detailed scan (the time when the gender would be determined). It’s good that I didn’t cancel this appointment. The sonographer is a lady so it makes me more comfortable especially since she has to do a trans-V ultrasound. She said that my uterus and ovary are all back to normal. She also showed me my uterus and it indeed came back to its original sandwich state.

My OB said that we could have our IVF again after 2 menstrual periods. We’ll probably wait for at least 3. Therefore, we might be having it around end-January of early Feb. It’s just a few weeks from now so I am really looking forward to that! The holiday season is also keeping me a bit occupied. We’ll be celebrating Christmas and NY in Dubai with my sisters. We are having secret santa exchange gifts so I am pretty excited on that! I can move around freely as well. I started cooking and doing household chores. I am also into Clash of Clans and Plants vs Zombies 2 games lately. Hami bought me an iPad so I have been busy with it ever since. I am watching koreanovelas again, started reading novels, and am trying to do yoga and exercises. The weather has started to get cold as well. I had flu last week after coming back from Dubai. We went to Dubai on 28-29 November to celebrate my niece’s birthday. We watched Hunger Games (last full show). We also met (and grilled) her “suitor”. We had a fun time in Dubai that weekend. We also had a productive weekend last week when we went to Ikea (had breakfast there, bought some stuff, but mostly enjoyed window shopping). Then we went for a drive around Saddiyat Island. And then we went for grocery in Lulu Khalidiya Mall. Hami also went for a run around our compound. I didn’t go with him since I am still recovering from flu. We’ll probably try to have afternoon (before dinner) walks today and in the next weeks. J I know that Hami just needs some motivation and a little push from me so he could also run regularly.

I haven’t cried for the past 2 weeks now. I still feel sad when thinking about the failed pregnancy sometimes but my sorrow is overshadowed by my anticipation of our next IVF ahead. I had a dream (around 2 weeks ago) with God. I was alone in a forest when I heard His voice. I know right then that it is God who is talking to me. He told me never to lose faith in Him and that He will fulfill His promise.. I just need to have patience and trust in Him. I know that I have a lot of questions but when I heard His voice, I just fell down on my knees and tears were streaming down my face. After that dream, I feel so at peace. I am more determined than ever! I really believe that the next IVF will be a success.. that I will be pregnant right away! And that I will have a healthy and full-term pregnancy. And that we will have our healthy, normal and precious rainbow baby very, very soon! How can I not be excited when God has reassured me that He will fulfill His promise? Right now, I am just counting the days.. before I know it, we’ll be starting off with our IVF again! Yey! J

2 weeks after miscarriage

Today marks 2 weeks after my miscarriage. This day should have been baby Aedam’s 19 weeks GA. I think I am now okay. I have stopped crying as well. Though there were still times when I still remember the joy of my pregnancy as well as the heartaches of losing our baby. I still feel sad at times but I don’t linger with the loneliness anymore. After all I am still thankful of all the blessing that I have. I am thankful that I have a loving relationship with Hami. I am thankful that I am surrounded with wonderful people especially my family and close friends. I am thankful that I have survived the whole ordeal.. that I have physically recovered immediately. I have now set my mind on a new goal and a new hope. By early next year, we will try again with our IVF cycle. I claim that we will be pregnant again on the first cycle.. I claim further that we will have a full term pregnancy and that I will go on and deliver a healthy baby (or babies). With this in mind, I am waking up every day with a forward-looking mindset. I am more determined to become healthier. I am putting effort in eating healthy food and maintaining my >20 BMI. After a week or so, I am intending to do some exercise as well so as to make my body more fit to carry my baby. Hami and I are also praying for our baby angels in heaven as well as our future babies. It has become part of our routine. We are happy and enjoying every moment.

What’s keeping me busy lately? For the past 2 weeks, I have gone back being busy in the kitchen. I enjoy cooking for my Hami. We started eating healthy breakfasts again. We also started having our fruits mix and fruits+milk juices. It makes me happy seeing my Hami come home after the day’s work and look forward to the meals that I would serve. I also enjoy having long conversations with him, cuddling, watching news and telenovelas together, watching animes, playing clash of clans (we have abandoned Farmville already! :P).. even throwing the garbage together and washing the dishes together. J I have also spent my time chatting with my mom and siblings. I also started reconnecting with the people whom we shared the news that we’re pregnant. I have already told them about the sad news and I am glad that I can now comfortably talk about it. When I don’t feel sleepy, I watch Koreanovelas (currently watching The Heirs).

I am happy to see and feel the rain today. It’s like being at home (in the Philippines). I even heard the thunder. I feel refreshed! Winter is coming but I’m so glad that I have Hami beside me to keep me warm always. I forgot to mention that ever since I became pregnant, I feel more loved by him. But after I miscarried, I feel that he loved me even more. I probably won’t be able to recover this quickly if not for him so I am so thankful to have a husband as sweet, as loving, as caring, as thoughtful, as warm and as accommodating as him. I can’t imagine having someone else instead! With all the rain, the storm or typhoon that passed by our life, I strongly believe that we will have our rainbow soon.

Lastly, I saw ANC’s final word tonight that inspired me to write today. It goes, “Our willingness to wait reveals the value we place on the object we're waiting for.” I know that God has bigger and better plans for us. We will be waiting for our rainbow baby to come soon. J

I said “Goodbye” before I can even say “Hello"

It was exactly 17 weeks (7-Nov-13). We started the day with cereals breakfast. After Hami went to office, baby and I are still hungry so I decided to eat sunny-side-up egg and rice. When I transferred the tefal cooker to the other stove, its glass cover suddenly rolled on the kitchen table and then dropped to the ground. The glass shattered into pieces. I do not believe in premonitions but I suddenly had the feeling of worry.. not so much about my baby but more of the Typhoon that is about to hit the Philippines (Typhoon Yolanda). Other than this incident, my day went by as usual.. I spent some time checking out my facebook, reading some stuff in the internet, playing Farmville and chatting with Hami.

I ate my lunch (shrimp and squash in coconut milk) around noon and took my prenatal meds. I started taking the Fish Oil supplement as well. Just like before, I almost choked while taking the Fish oil. I coughed a bit hard and I even felt my baby kicking. Around 2pm I started my usual nap. I easily dozed off.  I put my alarm at 4pm but I woke up around 3pm because of the urge to pee. 

When I went to the bathroom, I also felt like I want to poop. I sat on the toilet for some time (around 10mins) because the urge to pee and poop is there however nothing is coming out. My abdomen is starting to hurt. After some time, I managed to pee a bit. When I used the tissue to wipe, I was so alarmed to see fresh blood. I tried not to panic so much and called Hami (3.25pm). He immediately left the office to check on me. I tried to stay calm by going back to bed in order to relax my abdomen. However, only a few minutes just passed when I felt more pressure and pain in my abdomen like something big is pushing its way out! Then, more blood has started to come out. I didn’t know that I was already in labor then. The contractions became more and more intense and blood is already soaking up my underwear and pants. I called my OB (3.32pm) and told her about the situation. She said to immediately go to the hospital and meet her in the emergency room. 

By the time Hami arrived home (3.45pm), I’m already soaked in blood! We tried to check if it’s easier to call for the ambulance but then we decided that Hami will just drive. Hami carried me out towards the parking lot and we hurriedly made our way to the hospital. I feel like this is the longest drive of my life! I wanted to cry ever since I saw the blood but my tears are not coming out. 

When we arrived at the emergency room (4.10pm), the nurses and staff immediately took care of me. My OB also arrived after some time. I was in so much pain that I started screaming. When my OB checked, she told me that my cervix is already dilated. I am indeed in labor! She tried to scan for any sign of heartbeat but she cannot find any. They transferred me to the labor room and I can hear my husband insisting if I could be given any pain reliever because I was so much in pain. They gave me an injection in the butt which seems like a local anesthesia. It took a while for it to take effect. After some time (which seemed like forever!), the pain was lessened and I can feel something big that is stuck down there. The Head of OB Department arrived and also assisted. She told me to try to cough. I coughed for a minute or so and then I felt relief while ejecting the “big” thing (5.45pm). I also felt so wet.. I think I have released so much blood and pregnancy tissues as well. 

My husband then came back to the labor room and he said that he saw the whole sac (with our baby still intact) and the placenta. I haven’t seen what happened next because I was still lying in bed. I heard my husband asking my OB if we could find out at least what our baby’s gender is. He saw the nurse ripping the sac in order to take our baby. And then my husband told me that our baby is a boy. 

It was only then that I felt my tears streaming down my face. My OB came to me and held my arm. She did not say a word but her touch is comforting me in some way. I didn’t know how long I cried at that moment. I’m just so glad that Hami is also there with me all throughout.. that he is permitted to come and go in the labor room as he pleases. And then Hami carried the basin where our baby is. I looked at him and said my prayers for him. He is so complete and normal. He is about a foot long from head to toe. His legs and arms are long. His fingers are already fully formed. Tiny eyes, nose and ears. He doesn’t seem scary at all.. he looks so innocent.. and it looks like he’s only sleeping. I was still so sad then but I also felt a bit calm. At that time, I do not feel any physical pain anymore.. only the emotional pain of losing our baby.

Hami went back to our house (7pm), along with Tito Paul, to gather some clothes, my insurance card and some important things. I waited in the labor room, thinking and praying for our baby. And then it suddenly came to me that I wanted to name our baby, Aedam. No particular reason at all. It just crossed my mind. When Hami came back, he asked me what we would name our baby. Then I told him that I would like to call him Aedam. He instantly agreed.

I haven’t ejected all the pregnancy tissue inside my uterus. Around 8 or 9pm, they transferred me to the Operating Theatre for D&C. I was under general anesthesia so I didn’t feel anything. I woke up (after 1 or 1 ½ hrs) with Hami beside me.. I think my OB is also there explaining how the procedure went but I can’t remember a word that she said anymore. 

I was transferred to the ICU so they could monitor me closely. I think my OB said that I’ve lost a lot of blood so she recommended that I be transfused with 2 bags of blood. Around 1 or 2am, the blood bags arrived from Abu Dhabi Blood bank. They immediately transferred one bag; the other bag was transferred in the morning. Hami was not allowed to stay in the ICU. He was in our private room and I was alone in the ICU with the nurse checking on me from time to time. Even though I feel that my body is weak and tired, I didn’t manage to sleep well. I was awake and crying for hours. It would have been so much better if Hami is with me. My eyes and whole face is so puffy the next morning. 

Hami went to the ICU first thing in the morning and he told me that he also did not sleep well. We asked if we could be discharged the same day since I am already feeling well but the nurse said that they are still monitoring my blood. They took my blood sample to check if my hemoglobin has gone up. I also had my ultrasound to check if there are still pregnancy tissues remaining in my uterus. The sonographer said that there are still small tissues remaining but will eventually be ejected by my body. 

In the evening, my OB came and we told her that I am already feeling well. She said that I could stay in our private room and will be released the next day. We talked about what happened yesterday. She said that the placenta might have weakened and detached, which resulted to lack of food and air supply for my baby. She also mentioned about the bruises that are found in some portion of our baby’s head and legs. It seems like our baby struggled. L Samples were already sent to the lab for investigation. We also requested for genetic testing. We are hoping that there would be answers so that the next time that we would become pregnant, all factors will be considered. My OB is also telling us about taking Duphaston for the first 20 weeks regardless of whether I have spotting or not. She said that it is totally harmless for the baby and it would be used to support the pregnancy. She also told us that she has one patient who is taking daily injection of Clexane (blood thinner) till the end of pregnancy. It is recommended for high risk pregnant women who had previous miscarriages. She said that I may also be recommended to have a more strict bed rest and probably even to have my cervix stitched. Since I didn’t have any surgery this time, she said that I just needed to wait at least 2 menstrual periods before we could start to try to conceive again. We also asked if it’s possible to have our baby cremated so we could take him home.. but she said that UAE has strict laws about it and usually it is only from 24 weeks that they allow parents to take the body. In our case, it is more probable that the hospital lab will take care of our baby’s body.

As soon as we had our OB’s approval, we immediately moved to our private room. At least we have television there and we can sleep together in the same room. With my other IV dextrose gone in my other hand, I can move so much better. It’s much easier to eat, brush my teeth, wash my face and move around. We had KFC delivered for dinner and we watched Bourne trilogy in cable until we dozed off. I had much better sleep that night but still not much comfortable.

The following day, we requested if we could see our baby one last time. They brought him to our room and we spent some time watching him. I was trying to keep myself from breaking down but as soon as the nurses took him back, I cried again. It still feels like I’m dreaming.. I’m actually wishing that I was still sleeping and that any moment I would wake up in my bed and that everything is still fine. But as time passed by, it feels more real! I have never been so sad in my life. But in order to console myself, I am just thinking of positive things, of all the things that I have and all the people that I am with. I should also be thankful that I am still alive and healthy. I need to be happy for my son who is now in heaven together with our other angels – Amber, Liam and Joanne. I need to hope that God has bigger plans for us.. and that Baby Aedam is not really for us. I am also thankful that God has given me a very loving and supportive husband.. I can’t imagine having someone else with me during this time. I feel so blessed that we are in such a loving relationship and that with every trial that comes our way, we are getting stronger and our love for each other is more than enough to make us through the day! We are also blessed to have parents and family who love us so much and who have begun to genuinely love baby Aedam. It hurts me to know how affected they are upon hearing the sad news. I actually asked Hami to disable my facebook wall and to ask our relatives not to post anything or to send me any condolences because it would be harder for me to cope with our loss.

We were released from the hospital around 4pm on Saturday (9-Nov-13). Our follow-up OB appointment is after 2 weeks. I also have some medicines to take at home: Cefuzime 500mg (2x a day for 5 days), Neogyl 250mg (2 tablets 2x a day for 5 days), Methergin 0.125mg (2x a day for 3 days), and Panalife 500mg (2 tablets 3x a day for 3 days).

As we track our way out of the hospital, we recalled everything that happened that day.. and how it all happened so fast! I started to tear up again while realizing that when I entered the hospital I still have baby Aedam with me.. but now, I am leaving without him and it hurts so badly! I saw some blood in the car’s passenger’s seat. I was crying the whole time while Hami drove back to our house. I cried in the bed while recalling how I started to feel the labor pain, and I cried while taking a pee in the bathroom while thinking how it all started with the blood in the tissue. I thought that I’m already okay. But I guess our house just brings back a lot of memories of Baby Aedam even if he was just in my belly.

Hami planned to take some time off from the office so he could accompany me at home. But his boss told him that he doesn’t need to file for leave and he could just come by the office every day for a few hours and then go home again. I told Hami that I prefer not to stay at home all the time and I told him if we could have some change in our routine. The next day (10-Nov-13), we went to church to offer our prayers and also thanksgiving. After that we took our lunch at Pizza Hut. On the next day (11-Nov-13), we planned to go to the park but Hami forgot the ball so he cannot play basketball. We then decided to just eat breakfast at Mc Donald’s. We stopped by the gasoline station to have one of the tyres repaired. We woke up early the next day (12-Nov-13) and went to the park. Hami played basketball. I enjoyed watching him and breathing fresh air. The weather is now cold outside. It was refreshing being out of our house even for some time.

Just to document some physical changes that I have experienced after the miscarriage, I have summarized below:

Period-like bleeding (like Day 3 of period and becomes lesser each day). Exactly a week after the miscarriage, my bleeding completely stopped. But the day after, it went on. But I only use the lightest pad and change only once daily. It is merely like spotting now (2 wks after mc).

Abdominal cramps (less painful than period). About 2 wks after mc, I had abdominal cramps like what I experience during my period. I feel uneasy and quite hard to move so I tried to relax my abdominal area by lying flat in bed.

Very sore boobs which started 3 days after the miscarriage.. they become so hard and painful. It’s like having breast cramping! I can’t sleep comfortably in either of my side. I tried to put cold towel and it relieves the pain temporarily. I need to wear tight but comfortable bra in order to keep them in place even while sleeping. I also observed after 2 or 3 days of severe cramping that some milk are coming out (which stains my bra). I didn’t try to expel the milk because I’m afraid that my body will think that I am breastfeeding. I just endured the pain and the stains. After about a week of total discomfort, my breasts softened gradually.

Leg cramps during the night (3 days after the mc – about 1-3 days)

My pregnancy appetite is also gone. I do not feel the frequent hunger anymore.

I do not have any difficulty peeing or pooping. I still wake up during the night to pee.. I think my urinal track has not yet fully adjusted. However after a week or so, my peeing gradually normalized.

I do not feel sensitive to smell or taste anymore.

I do not feel bloated. My stomach feels so much emptier.

I walk and move much faster than before. I feel much lighter.

I’ve lost 3kg a week after my mc (from 55kg down to 52kg). In order to retain a healthy BMI (>20), I need to maintain my 52kg or more weight. 

Pregnancy tracker: Week 16

How many weeks pregnant?
16 weeks!!

Which trimester am I in?
I'm in the 2nd trimester!

Estimated delivery date?

11-Apr-14 based on my last scan

Weight gain?

55 kg (I’ve gained so much since I went to Dubai)

Pregnancy symptoms?

My stomach feels so full. I pass gas more than a lot (burping and farting, ewww!). But I feel more energized and much healthier. I still have minor abdominal cramps from time to time. I sleep a lot as well. I started to get leg cramps during sleep.

Medicines?

After breakfast: Calcium 600 with Vit D

After lunch: Pregnacare

After dinner: Iron

Cravings?
Ube jam

Best moment of the week?
Seeing our baby again during our OB appointment. The ultrasound is not as clear as the one used in the Radiology dept but we can see our baby moving and kicking. It's such a happy feeling knowing that everything is okay and that our baby is healthy. My husband asked my OB if she can determine the gender. My OB tried to check and after a while, she smiled and said that she has an idea what it is already but she prefers that we wait till the 20-week scan. We are so intrigued that it made us even more excited!

What am I looking forward to?
Discovering our baby’s gender! We have booked our 20-week detailed ultrasound.

What emotions have I experienced this week?
Full bliss! Hami is already with us.. and our latest ultrasound assured us that our baby is healthy. What more can I ask for? I am so happy and so excited for the next days to come!

Am I wearing maternity clothes?
I love wearing the “kangaroo” preggy pants that my mom bought me. It’s so comfy and has a lot of belly space for my growing baby. I also received a lot of maternity dresses from Arnel’s sister and cousin. They all look so great! I feel so loved!

Stretch marks?
None yet :)

Has my belly button popped out yet?
Not yet.

Baby movements?
I am more certain now about the flutters that I am feeling inside. My baby is getting more and more active each day!

Boy or Girl?
Let’s wait and see on my 20-week detailed scan!

Sleep?
Sleeping is so much better now.

Have I been nesting?
Not yet.

Pregnancy tracker: Week 14

How many weeks pregnant?
14 weeks!!

Which trimester am I in?
I'm in the 2nd trimester!

Estimated delivery date?

11-Apr-14 based on my last scan

Weight gain?

Haven’t measured lately!

Pregnancy symptoms?
I still get bloated after eating especially at night. Good news is that I can eat almost anything! I can eat sour fruits, drink lemon iced tea and I’m not sensitive to food smell anymore. However, I still don’t like the smell of too much fabric conditioner on clothes / fabrics, and the strong fragrance of perfumes.

Medicines?

After breakfast: Calcium 600 with Vit D

After lunch: Pregnacare

After dinner: Folic acid 400 mcg

Cravings?
Lemon iced tea (specifically made by Ate Trisha), fruits (yes, I can eat now!), ice cream, halo-halo, banana cue

Best moment of the week?
Catching up with my two close friends in Dubai. We had fun sharing stories while eating breakfast at The Farm. It’s also fun being with my siblings, eating out and shopping! I bought some maternity clothes and sandals. My bump is really showing now. In some of the pictures taken, it is already obvious that I am pregnant! There was even a close friend back in college who noticed it in some pictures! More people (still those that I am close to) already know that I am pregnant. Although we haven’t formally announced it yet. But it’s great confirming to some of my close friends and relatives that I am indeed pregnant!

What am I looking forward to?
I want my Hami back so badly. We really miss him now!

Am I wearing maternity clothes?
I wear tights and long blouse when going out. At home, I wear loose and long shirts and dresses.

Stretch marks?
None yet :)

Has my belly button popped out yet?
Not yet.

Baby movements?
I can feel flutters sometimes. However, I’m not really sure if it’s my baby moving or just some acid or gas inside my stomach.

Boy or Girl?
Let’s wait and see.

Sleep?
Sleeping is much better now compared to the previous weeks.

Have I been nesting?
Not yet.

Pregnancy tracker: Week 13

How many weeks pregnant?
13 weeks!!

Which trimester am I in?
I'm in the 2nd trimester!

Estimated delivery date?

11-Apr-14 based on my last scan

Weight gain?

Still at 53kg.

Pregnancy symptoms?

Still picky on food but I am starting to regain my appetite. I am cautious in eating sour food, fruits and juices. I’m feeling much better now. I can go walking long distances without getting too much exhausted. I feel more energized. I don’t have problems catching my sleep at night anymore. I actually get a lot of sleep lately (total of around 11 hours every day)!

Medicines?

After breakfast: Calcium 600 with Vit D

After lunch: Pregnacare

After dinner: Folic acid 5mg

Cravings?
Pancit, puto, lemon iced tea (specifically made by Ate Trisha), fruits (yes, I can eat now!)

Best moment of the week?
Going to Dubai and spending 2 weeks with my siblings and niece. Although it’s a bit sad because my husband will be away during this time (Baby and I will surely miss Dadi-hami)! But at least for a change of environment, it’s good for me and for my baby.

What am I looking forward to?
Catching up with my friends here in Dubai, shopping for some maternity clothes, eating native foods!

Am I wearing maternity clothes?

I wear tights and long blouse when going out. At home, I wear loose and long shirts and dresses.

Stretch marks?
None yet :)

Has my belly button popped out yet?
Not yet.

Baby movements?
I can feel flutters sometimes. However, I’m not really sure if it’s my baby moving or just some acid or gas inside my stomach.

Boy or Girl?
Let’s wait and see.

Sleep?
Sleeping is much better now compared to the previous weeks.

Pregnancy tracker: Week 12

How many weeks pregnant?
12 weeks!!

Which trimester am I in?
I'm in the 2nd trimester! Yey! Although some say that 2^nd trimester starts at 14 weeks, I still go with 12 weeks!

Estimated delivery date?

11-Apr-14 based on my latest scan

Weight gain?

Still at 53kg.

Pregnancy symptoms?
The first day of the week was warmly welcomed by a diarrhea! I felt weak all day but opted not to drink any medicine because I’m afraid that it would hurt my baby. Good thing that it was over the next day.. but then I had severe acid reflux! I was burping all the time.. seems like my abdomen is full of gas. I had heartburn at night and abdominal pain due to the gas. It also feels like acid is backing up into my throat. I vomited once. I almost took Gaviscon. Good thing that on the next day, everything is back to normal. Although I still pick the food that I’m eating. I can still feel the acidity in my stomach from time to time, but it is now tolerable. My sleep is also better now. I still pee a lot during the night but I can easily go back to sleep now.

Medicines?

After breakfast: Calcium 600 with Vit D

After lunch: Pregnacare

After dinner: Folic acid 5mg

Cravings?
Melon milkshake, corn soup, puto with melted butter, pandesal with cheez whiz, banana

Best moment of the week?
Having a detailed ultrasound scan.. witnessing our baby kick, jump, scratch his/her head, and thumbsuck – priceless! After being released from the IVF clinic, we immediately booked our first appointment in a normal OB. My OB is also very kind and attentive when we are telling her our medical history including the past failed pregnancies and IVF. She immediately booked me for detailed ultrasound scan including the nuchal translucency (NT) screening. She even called the radiologist so they would accommodate me to be scanned on the same day. The radiologist is also very warm. Upon learning about our past failed pregnancies, I felt his compassion. He allowed my husband to take a video of the scan. He showed us the parts of our baby’s body. At first our baby is very active, as if trying to show off! It’s so exciting to see him/her move and a bit strange that I can’t feel anything even if he's inside me. At the later part of the scan, our baby dozed off while sucking his/her thumb.. so cute! It’s just so amazing how he has developed this fast. Sometimes it’s really hard to imagine that 12 weeks ago (more accurately, 10 weeks), it only began with the union of 2 cells! Now, our tiny baby is almost complete with body organs that are beginning to take their function! This is truly God’s miracle! And we are so much blessed to experience this!

What am I looking forward to?
Eid holidays next week. Although I will be quite sad because my husband will be flying home for 2 weeks, I think I can cope because I will be with my sisters and niece in Dubai. Plus, my brother will also be here during the holidays so it’s like a reunion of siblings in Dubai! I can’t wait for the native foods that we are planning to make. Hopefully, I can tolerate eating all sorts of foods including the sour ones. I am also looking forward to the preggy clothes that my mother and my sis-in-law have bought me. My husband will be bringing it when he comes back. Not to mention, the long list of home-cooked foods and native delicacies that I asked my husband to bring for me.

What emotions have I experienced this week?
Although it has been a dreadful start, due to diarrhea and acid reflux.. I would say that generally my mood this week is super happy, after seeing our baby in my latest scan! We also shared the video with our immediate family and close friends. I don’t get tired of playing the video over and over again! It’s really a good thing that we were allowed to record it!

Am I wearing maternity clothes?
I wear tights and long blouse when going out. At home, I wear loose and long shirts and dresses.

Stretch marks?
None yet :)

Has my belly button popped out yet?
Not yet.

Baby movements?
I can feel flutters sometimes. However, I’m not really sure if it’s my baby moving or just some acid or gas inside my stomach.

Boy or Girl?
Let’s wait and see. We asked the radiologist if he can see it. He said it’s usually determined at 20-24 weeks.

Sleep?
Sleeping is much better now compared to the previous weeks.

Have I been nesting?
Not yet.