A Real-Life Pregnancy: Week 6

see larger photo

Photo Credit: Dean Lipoff

We're pregnant!

We were so excited to call the doctor and start the whole pregnancy process. But I was kind of surprised at how that first appointment really turned out.

My First Prenatal Appointment: On the Phone?

The day after the big positive home-pregnancy test results, we were set to make an appointment and find out what would happen next. I called my doctor's office and had a conversation with the nurse practitioner, who after going over a few questions with me surmised that I was indeed pregnant! And all this happened within the first two minutes of our phone conversation!

We then determined the date of my last period. The nurse told me that she'd see me in a couple of weeks for our first ultrasound appointment. I thanked her and hung up the phone. I spent the day walking around in a daze. I'm really pregnant!

Reality Check

It wasn't until later that my husband and I were both puzzled about what to do with the next couple of weeks. Shouldn't I meet with someone? Weren't there things I should be doing? I was tired, sore, and just starting to deal with the wonders of morning sickness. After doing a little research, I opted to relax, and to eat a little more; I was really enjoying some great bread again and not worrying if it was white, wheat, or rye (I had really missed it over the last couple months). I also kept up with some light exercise like a good walk around the neighborhood.

Sharing the News

We lasted a long four days before we ended up telling anyone. I was as excited as my husband to share our news, but hesitant about the timing of it all. Was it too early? But we just couldn't wait! The first call was to my parents. It was wonderful to have someone to talk to and get some advice from, and to collect lots of support. Next, I called my sister, who was full of wisdom. And then we called my husband's close friends and family. They were all happy for us, were excited to share their experiences with us, and were also surprised: It had taken us three years before we could finally tell them I was pregnant!

Sarah's Stats

Waist measurement: 29 inches
Weekly weigh-in: 148 pounds
Pregnancy symptoms: Frequent urination, sore breasts, food aversion, nausea, and fatigue.

About the Photo: The above picture of the author was taken during her sixth week of pregnancy by Dean Lipoff.

Read the next installment: week seven