Monday, May 16, 2011

24 weeks along, and learning how to walk

Millie and I are both figuring out how to walk this week.

Millie, who took her first steps about 4 months ago, is just now figuring out that she likes to walk instead of crawl. I can't blame her; she is so efficient and fast in her crawling, and can get to everything she wants to. So, despite her physical ability to walk, she has chosen crawling for a long time, and now is finally deciding that she wants to move on to walking.

I, on the other hand, have been running almost every day of my pregnancy thus far. These 24 weeks have seemed much more manageable, because I've been able to stay active. Running is something that I love, something that gives me confidence, keeps me balanced and happy, and gives me another thing to do with Millie throughout the day. It is so much a part of my identity, and I was really hoping to be able to continue throughout the pregnancy (at least as long as it was still comfortable).

Then, yesterday at my doctor appointment, we discussed my placenta previa, and the doctor advised that I stop running and err on the side of inactivity. At first, (don't make fun of me--pregnancy hormones) I almost cried. I hate to give that part of my life up (I know, I know, it's only for a few months, I don't expect you to understand) when so often it's the only part of my day that feels productive, and one of the few things that I do for me.

And, while the placenta previa is a risk to my body but not necessarily the baby's, it is even easier to rationalize the doctor's orders. However, I'm having to remember that my health is important to this baby and to Millie. As with most things, this is not all about me and my wants.

So, the girls in our family have moved on to walking. Wish us luck!

8 comments:

Drew said...

I would cry if my doctor told me not to run anymore too, and I'm not pregnant, nor will I ever be, since you know, that doesn't happen to men. I'm sure you'll be able to find some joy in walking and getting activity and enjoying fresh air that way, and of course you'll be glad knowing you're reducing the risk for any problems with the li'l one.

sara said...

Good luck to both of you. I supposed you not being able to run is like me not being able to eat icecream. I probably would've cried too!

Unknown said...

I would listen to the doctor, but what do I know, since I hate to run. 24 weeks is exciting! I don't recommend delivering at 27 weeks, so hopefully you'll keep her in longer than I did. :)

Naazju said...

I know it's hard to give up something you love and that's so personally gratifying, but remember the doctor wants to do what's best for you and your little baby so just listen to him/her, deliver this baby healthy, and then you can get back into the good habit of running (which is probably when Millie will *really* start to love it, too!)

dave, catie, and baby b. said...

aww! that is a bummer but don't fret, it won't be long and then you'll be able to jump right back into it :)
you're cute and i so so admire you runners.

Net said...

You're right - I totally do not understand the running thing! Never have. I think it's crazy. BUT, I do understand having SOMEthing that makes you feel like a person, makes you feel productive and good and happy, and then having that taken away. Oh my. It is more than hard. It can be devastating if you don't find a replacement -- even if it is just a "filler." And since I, again, completely do not "get" the whole running thing, I have no suggestions for you. But I wish you luck in finding something. And really, find something. Otherwise you're just left with a gaping hole, and holes are bad news brown.

BrittWilk said...

hi. i'm worried about you now. should i be? this sounds kind of scary.

and hard... but totally worth it for you and baby girl. :)

Holley @ Lunges and Lashes said...

so frustrating! i can definitely relate because i would cry too! how great that you have got to run for so long though. babies are worth it right?!? ;)