The Sile Seoige pregnancy diary: I’m 38 – but right now I feel about 88!

Trying to guess what body part is sticking out at any time is a fun game I’ve started to play.

Is it an elbow or a foot or could it be baby’s bum?! My hair and nails are currently growing at supersonic speed. And we went to our second antenatal class this week too which was really useful if a lil scary at times. But information is power as they say, so I am trying to soak up all I can before the big day.  And of course I’ve added to my ‘must gets’. Next on my list is a TENS machine, if it can help during early labour and prevent the use of drugs... I want it! It was an emotional few days for me too as I had a bit of a scare, which brought me into The Coombe for a check up. All is good thankfully, but it made me realise how important it is to trust your intuition and not give over to fear. I thought baby’s movements had slowed down but what had actually happened was that baby had moved position and some of the kicks were cushioned by the placenta which is to the front and I couldn’t feel them as much. But the lovely staff in The Coombe put my mind at ease by doing a CTG on me. I had no idea what it was until I went in. Basically it records baby’s heart-beat and movements and it can tell if there are any problems. For the test, I had two belt-like monitors strapped to my belly and I lay back for about 30 minutes. Luckily all was good and my worry was unnecessary. But as they said, if you are concerned about anything, come in and get checked out. They were so helpful and I felt so reassured. This week's ‘sexy stuff’…  Spider Veins Tiny purple veins in my legs, especially around my knees. They’re not pretty but they’re harmless, and they’ll fade over time after giving birth, or so I’m told. Feeling like an old age pensioner I may be 38 but I feel 88 at times, especially when I have to lean down and pick something up. It seems I can’t bend down these days without letting out a moan. The big swell continues My face has changed shape, it’s fuller in every way and even my watch is getting tight on me! Oh dear.   Things to do when pregnant ... 1) Move Exercise when you can. I know it mightn’t be an option for some and it may seem like the last thing that you want to do, especially during the warmer days but being active has so many benefits. It might seem obvious to say but it’s always good to be reminded that it can help reduce backaches, constipation, bloating, swelling and it can significantly improve your ability to cope with labour too so it’s worth making the effort. Well, that’s what I keep telling myself anyway! I have been doing a combination of pregnancy yoga, aqua fit classes in my local gym and walking for months now. Though I'm spending less time walking and more time in the pool in the warmer temperatures. I could always be doing more and my exercise ball is gathering dust in the corner of the sitting room but I WILL use it from now on! 2) Embrace the magic of a maxi dress I was never a big wearer of a long dress, unless I was going to a formal event but the lovely long, loose styles you can pick up, especially those with an empire line are a no brainer when you’re expecting! They’re elegant, breathable and they have the added plus of hiding those dreaded cankles. 3) Rest the lower limbs Lift up your legs whenever you can, soak your feet whenever you can and rub them with a cooling gel whenever you can. I love this product (pictured above), it’s divine. That’s it for now, next week I’ll be telling you what I’m packing in my hospital bag. Big love,  Síle xxx