Kena confined..

Didn't expect at this stage of my pregnancy, I am being confined. No going out at all, and purely resting at home. I do wish I can rest a 100%, but it is highly unlikely with my room short of being ready for the new baby..

I have cleared up space for the baby cot, but have yet got the suitable storage unit for the baby's clothes and essentials. Also, I'm thinking to pack my things (mainly clothes) already for the impending move to our new house. 

The progress is slow, as I really, really have quite a number of stuff; either to throw or to keep. It's almost as good as the same amount of stuff discarded, I will be keeping an equal amount of stuff that is wanted. God, please bless me with the perserverance and strength to continue, and complete soon the packing. 

On the other side of the world, I went for my gynae checkup today and Dr Wee wasn't exactly pleased with my blood pressure records. 

He pointed out that there had been some extreme spikes, and also the irregular taking of the blood pressure which is concerning. As such, he had ordered another 'uric acid' marker test (marker for pre-eclampsia) to see if I have gone over my previous reading after 2 weeks, and strictly confined me to home/bed rest until he sees me in another 1 week's time. 

The blood taking (for the uric acid) was the worst today as I experienced the most painful jab after so many times of syringe poking during my 8+ months of pregnancy. I attached a picture so that you can understand the pain I was in while blood was drawn from me. 

Similarly, I had another jab which is just as painful when the needle goes into my butt cheek. This was my vaccine for the whopping cough. When all the jabs were finally done, I heaved a great sign of relief and hope I won't have to go under the needle somemore. 

Prepping up

I can still remember vividly of 7 years ago, at this time, I was already in hospital and induced to deliver Rianne due to pre-eclampsia. My organs (liver first and then kidney) were slowly being affected by the condition, and will eventually become life threatening should I allow Rianne to stay any longer in my stomach. 

This pregnancy I wasn't exactly spared of pre-eclampsia; but I am counting my blessings that I do not have to deliver my baby pre-maturely at 35 weeks! My gynae is hopeful for me to hold on for another week, til gestation of 36 weeks. But, I pray every night that my son will remain in his best condition (healthy and growing) until my EDD; or even until our National Day on 9 Aug 2016!

As the day draws closer, I am more and more excited and panicky of the childbirth. For a start, I am getting ready the list of things to go into my hospital bag. I find the items provided on this site really useful - http://www.parents.com/pregnancy/giving-birth/preparing-for-labor/hospital-packing-list/

I reckon the key item to prepare for my labour would be essentially the stuff that can keep my contraction pain at bay and tide me through the entire labour. I am not sure if the presence of KL will make a significant difference as compared to my mom's during my labour with Rianne. However, I am really having lots of expectation that he will be handy, comforting and most importantly, my pillar of strength and a 'human' pain relief. If he's gonnna be there physically, but engrossed in keeping himself occupied during the labour, then it is as good as me being there alone. 

I'm just gonna list the hit list of items I find especially beneficial for me (at least) :

- essential oils/massage oil/lotion (my mom used medicated oil the last time to rub my aching back, not the best aroma for a pregnant woman I have to say!). There have been a specific scent which calms and relaxes me, which is Peppermint or Eucalyptus. 

- speakers to play song list from Spotify (best source of relaxation if your husband hasn't got the best consolation skills!) 

- notes from antenatal class for husband to read and advise the right breathing techniques (you are as good as blind when in pain!)

- coloring book/storybook, in case need to wait a while to be fully dilated

- mobile phone or ipad, for a movie in case of the above same reason too. This reminds me to have more movies downloaded soon.

I guess the above should suffice on top of the essential items. 

My point of view is, my wellness (both physical and mental) is of utmost importance at the time of delivery. Afterall, I will be living under the restrictions of 'confinement' immediately after giving birth, so I better make use of the little luxury I am allowed.