pregnancy week by week 12

Photo by wntg1grl

We're joining Kim (aka wntg1grl), a stay-at-home mom of three who's expecting twins, on her exciting journey from bump-to-babies. Check back every week for the latest developments. 

Week 12
What's Happening with Mom:
My blood glucose test came back within normal range, so I don't have gestational diabetes right now. It's a relief, but I'll be re-tested at about 26 weeks.

I also went for a nuchal translucency, an ultrasound that measures a fluid-filled space on the back of the babies' necks, on Friday. They combine these results with the alpha-fetoprotein test (AFP) to assess the risk for Down syndrome and other health and chromosomal abnormalities.

I was relieved that my (or their) Down risk is very low -- not any higher than a 34 year old with a single fetus. BUT ... as it seems to be with everything ... I will be re-tested in about six weeks.

It was just amazing to sit and watch these babies for about an hour. So comforting to see them move and stare at their heartbeats. I am so in love! The ultrasound tech thinks that baby B may be a girl. She and I agreed that it is a little early to tell, but she does have a trained eye. 

We will see, but I am not counting on it.  I am still thinking two boys ... that just seems to be the trend!

What's Happening with the Babies:

Our faces are starting to form, and muscles are beginning to grow on our bodies, making our limb movements more noticeable -- have you felt a kick or quickening yet? We can curl our toes and suck our thumbs, which have nails now. We swallow and take in amniotic fluid.

Question of the Week from Answers:

I am 18 weeks pregnant and just got my quad testing (a blood screen for four substances that may indicate abnormalities) back. It says I have a 1 in 100 chance of having a baby with Down syndrome, and my doctor is very concerned. My amnio is in two weeks ... has this happened to anyone else? -- PregoSommer

LokisMama: "I wouldn't freak out too much. The quad tests have such a high rate of false positives it's ridiculous. Just wait til you can get in for the amnio, and then worry about it. The amnio is the only definitive way to tell."

mom2twobabes: "I refused to have those tests done with BOTH of my pregnancies because they are wrong a lot. You are more than likely just fine ... and your little one too."

mrsmommy2007: "It doesn't matter if your little one has Down syndrome, you will love the baby regardless. Amnio's are tough, so make your decision about it wisely."

Past Weeks:

Weeks 10, 11

Week 9

 

Other pregnancy calendars:

The Birth!

Week 39