34 Weeks With Twins

Technically Wednesdays are supposed to be the day when I share a workout with you all, but at this point in my twin pregnancy I’ll be honest – I’m still working out, but am sticking to a pretty consistent routine which offers nothing new or interesting to share. So, for the next few weeks I’m going to use Wednesdays to share pregnancy updates instead. If I happen to think of something brilliant to share beyond that I won’t hesitate, but please don’t expect anything earth shattering.

Today I’m officially 34 weeks pregnant with my twin girls! This week is a big deal to me because my doctor said that if I go into labor after 34 weeks I’ll be able to deliver at our local hospital here in town instead of having to go to a more specialized one in St. Paul due to the fact that the girls are likely developed enough at this point to not need super intensive care.

34 Week Survey

Size of Babies: I’ll officially find out tomorrow at my weekly appointment, but I’m guessing they’re somewhere around 4.5 pounds each.

Sleep: I’m getting up to pee a LOT! About every 1.5 – 2 hours or so. The way the girls are laying puts a lot of pressure on my bladder all the time. I also have a lot of heartburn and indigestion, but as long as I don’t eat past 8:00pm it doesn’t affect my sleep as much. The bottle of Tums on my bed stand helps too. Other than that, Baylen’s been sleeping well so I can’t complain. Jake also helps to make a huge pillow barricade around me to keep me supported. My boys are taking good care of me!

Symptoms: Overall, I feel pretty good. My back gets sore if I carry Baylen too much, so I’ve been teaching him how to hold my hand when we go places instead of carrying him all the time. I tend to get tired pretty easily and am requiring occasional naps in the afternoon, but beyond that I’m still able to be up and living life normally.

Total Weight Gain: 22 lbs. Ironically, I gained 22 lbs. with Baylen and delivered him at 39 weeks 4 days. From here on out I’m exploring new weight gain territory, folks! Bring it on!

Stretch Marks: None yet…crossing fingers.

Cravings: This pregnancy has been full of craving breakfast foods, specifically carb-filled ones. Pancakes, waffles, oatmeal, crepes, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, you name it. Anything that’s fairly bland keeps my tummy happy.

Movement: When these little girls are awake, they certainly keep me awake too! I get lots of kicks in my rib cage. I can tell they’re starting to get cramped for space though, because it’s not quite as all over my whole tummy.

Position: At my ultrasound last week they were both head down, which is what we’ve been praying for. If they stay that way chances are I’ll be able to attempt a vaginal delivery. I also found out that they’re spooning in there! Both girls are faced the same way, with their spines to my left. I love picturing them cuddling together, and wonder if they like their respective positions as big spoon and little spoon. 🙂

Labor Signs: Some Braxton Hicks contractions here and there.

Exercise: 4 times this week, each day consisting of 35 minutes of cardio and light weight lifting.

Best Moment This Week: Spending time on the couch with Jake talking to our girls and praying over them. Jake and I have had a lot of ah-ha moments this week, like it’s REALLY sinking in that we’re gonna have two girls in our house soon! It’s so fun to think about what their little personalities and temperaments will be like and how they’ll fit into our family.

Milestones: Nursery is done! I’ll be sharing pictures tomorrow!

Hope your Wednesday is going well, and if you’re able, get after it in the gym this week for me! I am so excited for the days when I can break a good sweat again!

Amber

P.S. For more reflections on parenthood and life, follow us on Facebook (Hun Let’s Run) and on Instagram: @ambermariekuiper and @jakekuiper! We’d also love for you to subscribe to our Hun, Let’s Run Podcast! For more info about joining our fitness community as a customer or coach, please email us at amber@mommysmetime.com!