How do people carry twins to 36 weeks?

I regret to inform you that my posts will probably be containing some complaints from here on out. I am definitely starting to feel incredibly pregnant these days. I am already outgrowing my maternity clothes that I just bought, and I feel like the babies are trying to outgrow me! My stomach feels very tight and my back hurts when I sit too long. But enough about me...

I went in for my, now weekly, ultrasound on Monday. The babies scored a 6 out of 8, which, according to the doctor, is just about perfect for their age. Both showed a lot of movement, which I am feeling all the time now, and my fluid looked good. There was evidence of occassional breathing, but not sustained breathing. This is apparently one of the criteria they look for and continue to monitor for a full 30 minutes if not present. However, due to the fact that they are only at 24 weeks, 5 days, they are still a little young to be showing evidence of such breathing. So we got a passing score and went on our way.

My weight gain is now up to about 22 pounds. That leaves about 13-18 more to go. I don't know where I am going to put it all!

23 weeks

25 weeks...and counting

All Is Well

Yesterday I had a growth ultrasound and everything looks good. The babies' gestational age is estimated to be 21 weeks and 5 days. Baby A is developmentally at 21 weeks and 3 days and is 1 lb, 1 oz.

Baby B is at 21 weeks and 0 days. I'm very happy that Baby B seems to be developing normally despite her single umbilical artery. In fact, she has taken charge and pushed her way to the front of the line. (She is closest to the cervix now.) Baby B is 15 oz. She finally gave us a good view of her heart, after much coaxing, and it is normal.

This ultrasound was a relief. I go back in two weeks for an ultrasound to assess fluid and bladders and in four weeks for another growth assessment. Until then, Ben and I will be taking several classes and touring the hospital.

We already took a cesarean birth class that was a little unnerving but very enlightening. Our favorite tip from the class was the "job jar." The nurse instructed us to not allow visitors after the babies come home, only helpers. I wanted to go ahead and give you all a heads-up on this plan. Basically, if you plan to come visit the babies, you will be expected to select and perform a chore from the job jar. You can handle that, right? Our house will probably be cleaner than it has ever been!

Here is my 20 weeks picture.

...and my 22 weeks picture (missed 21 weeks, sorry)