Sunday, April 25, 2010

New December 2010 Moms!

Hi Ladies.  

It seems like there are SO many newbies lately joining the December board. 

I thought it might be helpful to have a bunch of information in one place.  Of course, you can learn all the same things from lurking, but this might save some time.

First, there is a glossary on the bottom left hand of the page (on the Bump).  You'll pick up most of the abbreviations from lurking, but if you're not sure, just ask.

Second, with so many people joining, it's hard to keep track of who you are.  Please consider adding an avatar picture to your profile or a picture in your signature, it makes it easier for us to recognize you.  You don't have to use a picture of yourself, add anything you want.  An easy way to do this is using tinypic.com.

If you think you might be pregnant, take a test. No one here can make a determination about whether or not you are based on information given on a computer screen.

There are very few things considered “TMI” here on the TheBump. Just explain what your question is using adult language and no one will be offended or ask that you remove your post.
Spotting and cramping is normal during the 1st Trimester. Unless you are experiencing a bright red flow of blood, enough to fill up a pad, there is no reason to panic or dial 9-1-1. If you are experiencing a bright red flow of blood that fills up a pad, call your doctor immediately. If it is after-hours they will have a contact service and you should use it.

If you experience consistent, but light spotting, you should notify the medical person in charge of your pregnancy care. Do not panic and do not dial 9-1-1. 

Please browse through the threads on at least the first two pages of the board before asking your question. It’s entirely possible 5 other threads already exist asking the same exact thing. Repeat threads are annoying. Answering the same question 10 times in one week is redundant for everyone and is not likely to get a good response. Pull up a thread where that question already exists and post to it. We will still see your post and be able to respond to that.

“Is it safe to…” is asked a lot. Try doing a Google search and finding an answer posted by a reputable source- an OB’s office is usually a good reference. Anything that comes back from babygaga.com is not reliable and should not be referenced.

“Is it normal when…” is also a frequent question. Every pregnancy is different. A better question may be “Has anyone experienced…?”

Over the counter medications that are safe to take while pregnant can be found here:
or

Or just page Mrs Techie or CHW and they will be able to tell you. (Both of these December Mommies have lots of experience and information regarding medications during pregnancy.) It is also wise to double check with your physician before taking any medication that you're uncertain of.

Folic acid and prenatal vitamins are your friends and are good for the baby. You should be taking them.

Please don’t feel jealous or envious of the women getting early or multiple ultrasounds/OB appointments/additional testing. Most of them are dealing with infertility or serious medical conditions and must be closely monitored. 

Also, coming up with fake reasons to see your OB or get an early/additional ultrasound is offensive to everyone on this board. If you are not truly experiencing an emergency, you will not find any support in your decision to fabricate your way into what you want.

Expect honest answers to your questions and posts. It may not always be what you want to hear.

You can find good information about fetal development here:  

Welcome and good luck.  I hope this helps!

-MrsTechie

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