Big Boy: 9Lbs Already with Three Weeks to Go!

My best advice, I've had 2 vag births with a 9lbs11oz and 9lbs8oz, is to have a good midwife and stay away from the hospital as long as possible!

I would suggest using some mineral oil and doing a perineal massage. It's to help stretch the perinium some before the trauma it's going to see in childbirth.

Sounds exactly like my son. They decided to induce me in fear that he was going to get too big. When i arrived at the hospital I was already contracting 3 minutes apart and had no idea! But anyways I had a healthy baby boy weighing 9lbs 3oz. I had only 1 small tear inside but his head also came out side ways. And just remember the weights shown on the ultrasound can be 2 pounds up or down of their estimate. Good luck and congrats!

I am a midwife. Ultrasounds can not tell you the size of your baby. It is only an estimate and it is completely false information if that lab is telling you they are very accurate with weights. Please do not think that it is accurate. And do not let anyone talk you into being induced because you might have a "big" baby. Your body will not grow a baby that is too big for you to deliver. I attended a birth a few weeks ago and the baby was 13 lbs 8oz. The mother was perfectly healthy and delivered the baby just fine. Natural childbirth is truly the safest way to go. And my advice to you is to not have any more ultrasounds. If you are healthy and you have a healthy pregnancy, which it sounds like you do, then there is no medical justification for an ultrasound and that actually goes aganist the FDA regulations.

Good luck,
Lisa

P.S. I saw some responsed about episiotomys. Do not let anyone cut you unless your baby is having trouble. It is much better to tear than to be cut. Also, changing positions while pushing can help. Try not to give birth laying on your back. The hospital loves this position but it is the worst position for the mother.

I would absolutely put the estimated weight out of your mind. While this tech may be "accurate" for others, that does not indicate that this will be an accurate reading for you. A friend had an u/s with an excellent tech, who suggested her baby would be 10lbs (she was ~41 weeks). Her child was born at almost 9lbs, but not over. Long? Yes. And the leg bone length can be used to estimate weight, which is very inaccurate.

Additionally, research has shown that babies do NOT follow the ".5lb/week" growth after 40wks, so don't be concerned if he's not born at 40wks on the dot. It doesn't mean you're in for a 15 pounder! In fact, babies may lose a bit of weight at later gestational ages.

Don't be frightened into consenting for things you don't want. You don't need an episiotomy (no one does!!!), an induction, or a c-section. You can do it! Continue with your plans for a natural birth (I have also used Bradley-style techniques), and remember that your body is designed for this! Stay active and keep your pelvis open so the baby can move down. Stay upright, and follow your bodies cues, above all. Your baby will squish and your body will stretch, and you WILL birth your baby naturally. http://www.spinningbabies.com/ can give you tips for helping get and keep him in an optimal position.

I highly recommend reading up as much as you can and being as informed as possible. I have recently read and HIGHLY recommend, "Pushed," by Jennifer Block, especially if you're planning a hospital birth. Should be available at the library or any bookstore. I got mine on Amazon and ordered 3 so I can share!

After 22 weeks gestation, weight estimates based on ultrasound examination are very unreliable.
So just be forwarned that you may indeed give birth to a 10lb baby.... but you may also have a 8 lb baby, or a 7.5lb baby.
With my first I was expecting a "9pounder.. at the very least thsi girl is going ot comeout 9lbs" -and I gave birth to a very sweet, but small 6'14oz girl. LOL.

With that asside - there is nothgin preventing you from birthign this child naturally. Remeber: this is what your body was made for! Unless we are talking about a 15lb baby due to gestational diabetes - you are perfectly capable of birthign this child on your own. You CAN do it mama!

a few tips:
1Don't let anyone make you push before you feel you are ready, or before you feel the urge to push.
2Stay up and moving around for as long as possible. If you are having a hospitol birht, they will try to keep you on the bed. Remember- YOU are in charge of your own birth. Keep moving, keep walking, take advantage of the shower in the birthing room. If they end of covering you with baby monitors and IV's. You can still stand next to your bed and do a little "two-step" dance with your husband, or sit and roll on a birthing ball. Work with Gravity :)
3.Push on your own scheduale. Work with your contractions, and push for as long and as hard as you feel you cna during each contraction. No matter what Bradly classes you have taken prior to the biorth, the nurse on duty will be schooled in the "hold your breath, now push for 10 1-2-3-.." school of push coaching. You dont; HAVE to do that. You are the only one giving birth, you are inside your own body, you are the one feeling the urge - the need - to push.

Congratulations mama!

My advice would be to advocate for what you want but know when it's time to focus on a healthy baby and not how it gets here. My second baby was 10 pounds 6 oz. I went into labor 6 hours before I was going to be induced (she was close to 2 weeks late). The ultrasound underestimated her weight. I had a doula and my labor only lasted 6 hours. I had a natural birth (no epidural or drugs). I actually tore more with my much smaller baby (also a natural birth). I will not lie - it was much harder to push that big baby out than the 7 pound 12 ouncer! She was such a beautiful Amazon baby! A real Queen of the nursery.

I stuck to my guns about not being induced (with my doula's reassurances). One of my doctor's partners tried to scare me into being induced. You really have to follow your heart without being stupid.

One more thing. They seem to have a protocol they want to follow if a baby is big once she/he is born. They wanted to give my daughter sugar water because they assumed she was hypoglycemic because she was big. My doula encouraged me to have them do a simple test. Sure enough she wasn't hypoglycemic and didn't need the sugar water. There might be other things as well (this was 10 years ago).

Hope this helps.

First of all, congrats! And I think it's wonderful that you desire an all natural childbirth.

Now, ultrasounds, despite the track record of your particular tech, are notoriously off. My first was supposed to be 10 lbs when measured at 40 weeks according to u/s, yet was born 1 week later and was 8 lb 7 oz. They said my second was going to be 8.5 at my 40 week, and she ended up 1 week late and 6.5 lbs! U/s can be off by a pound or more. Please do not take their measurements as gospel. Chances are great that your little guy is not that big.

I also want to say that our bodies were MEANT to give birth to the babies we conceive. Though doctors will diagnose that a baby is "too big" for his mother's pelvis, in actuality this happens in only a small percentage of women. What's important to remember so that you can have your natural childbirth is to not go along with EVERYTHING the doctor says unless it's medically necessary. Don't induce early because they suspect a big baby. This is highly discouraged by ACOG (the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) yet doctors do it all the time. Also, a big baby is not enough of a reason for a c-section, according to ACOG. Yet, we know that doctors do it all the time. So for having a natural birth, follow Bradley. Don't get induced. If your fluid levels are fine, keep going in your pregnancy, even with the fear of a big baby. Change positions often in labor and use the birth ball and squatting to really open your pelvis. Consider squatting or hands and knees when pushing baby. Do NOT lie on your back in stirrups, and try to avoid lying on the bed at all. That position is not favorable for birthing, it's only favorable for doctors to catch baby. Squatting positions help open the pelvis by about 30% more than not squatting. Really helpful for big babies. Also try doing a lot of lunging and squatting during contractions to help baby get into just the right position. Make sure you go to the bathroom every 15 minutes or so. And if you are allowed, make sure and stay hydrated and sustained with some water and light food (not all hospitals allow this). After all, you are running a marathon here!

A vaginal childbirth is almost always safer for mother and baby than a c-section. There is no medical need for pain meds and they can slow or stall your labor. Mother and baby also suffer from drops in blood pressure from epidurals. Induction by Pitocin can cause over strong, over long contractions and thus fetal distress, by reducing the amount of oxygen baby receives during contractions. If you've read Bradley, you probably know all of this, but just stuff to keep in mind when they want to induce you at 38 or 39 weeks for a big baby!!! Remember that big baby is not a medical need. Open that pelvis up and you should birth him just fine.

You have a little time yet, I would recommend reading The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth by Henci Goer. More facts but also good suggestions (like squatting) for labor and birth.

Most of all, relax. In my three labors and deliveries, there were differences. Most of all, I would tense during contractions with my first, and didn't with my second and third. It is much more painful when you try and control it and tense against it. When you give over control to the contractions and imagine what they are doing inside your body, you remember that pain has a purpose and pain is progress (after all, when we feel the pain - especially the stretching of the perineum - it sends signals to the pain receptors in our brain, which in turn releases more oxytocin to progress labor and adrenaline to be able to cope!). By completely relaxing (toes, eyebrows, and all!!!) I was able to give over control to the contractions and allow my body to do what it needed. Remember that your body is a miracle that was designed to do this. Just don't fight against it, and don't stay in bed! That's the worst thing. Move around, go to the bathroom, squat, sit on the birth ball (absolutely wonderful for opening up pelvis and for pain management).

One other suggestion: consider hiring a doula, who can help you understand what is going on, help you relax, help your pain management, and help you understand if things are medically necessary when the doctors and nurses say something is needed. IF you do this, you'll want to find her now or as soon as you can.

I've had three natural births, two in the hospital and one water birth in a birthing center with a midwife. Good luck, and don't hesitate to messge me if you have any questions!!!!

Hi,
I really hope for you that you do get the birth that you and your husband really want. But, I just wanted to encourage you in case you have tohave a c-section. I was diligent about wanting my first to be super natural too, and at the end the Dr. said he was too big and after being induced I ended up with a section.
I was a little dissapointed, for some reason (stupid) it felt like failing. But, healing takes a couple weeks, then life is fine again. You can still breastfeed and do all the other millions of things that moms have to do. So- try to cut yourself a break, and if your birth can not go exactly as you want it to, remember that the outcome is the same. Soon you will be holding your little boy in your arms and in all likely hood you will be a healthy mom with nothing torn or punctured too much down there. I will soon have to have my third c-section and though I still am not thrilled by the idea that they cut on me, I give it up to God, trust the Doctors and focus on the blessing of getting to conceive at all and raising my babies. Good luck!!! A.

Hi Heather,

I commend you on your going natural. It is certainly the safest way to go! And I'm happy for you that you've had such a healthy pregnancy.

I would seriously consider the possibility that your ultrasound weight is incorrect. They are notoriously incorrect. I was told that my little girl was 8.5 lbs at 37 weeks, and I had your same fears. i was going to birth at home and the doctor was actually going to attend it. The dr. freaked after seeing the weight. I was a small person. I ended up with a totally unnecessary c-section and a 7 lb 2 oz baby at 41 weeks. I was also consistantly above the fundal growth curve.

Consider also that you might be off on the conception date by a week or two. Perhaps you ovulated later than you normally do and the baby is actually a little further along than you think.

I have tremendous doubts that that lab tech is following up with the clients after they've given birth (or their doctors, for that matter) to have any statistical information on the accuracy of his guess rate. Ask to see his data if you doubt my word on that one. I'd bet my house he wouldn't be able to produce it.

I have accompanied midwives in a third world country. I'm amazed at what our bodies are capable of doing, given the chance. I have complete faith in you and your baby to have a safe natural birth.

OH, by the way, my second baby was born at home, a VBAC. He was 8 lbs 6 ozs and he came out perfectly healthy. It was a much better recovery and a LOT more pleasant than the c-section with my first. Don't let anyone scare you! Your body is a bazillion times smarter than any man's (or woman's) brain, no matter how educated.

I wish you peace and, if it is still possible at this late date in your pregnancy, comfort.

I don't want to scare you, but sometimes things don't go as you plan. I too didn't want any drugs. Turns out my baby was too big for me to deliver. She was 9 lbs 12 oz and 22 inches long. I am only 5 feet tall and she was already 9 days past due. My body just would not cooperate. I never dialated at all even with the labor inducing drug. Finally after 20 plus hours, they had to do an emergency C-Section due to my blood pressure going too high and her heart rate dropping. In the end, everything turned out good. My doctor estimated her weight to be 7 lbs before her birth. My second one was 9 lbs and 21 inches long. They took her one day before her due date. They still made me try VBAC but again my body did not cooperate. I am just not made for having babies the old fashioned way, but I am blessed to have two beautiful daughters, 19 and 14.

You are absolutely safe delivering this way and please don't be discouraged or convinced to induce for anything but a true medical emergency. Every measurement right now is just an estimate please don't take them as certain. Our first daughter was "estimated" as 8 1/2 pounds a month before her birth and the dr. was going out of town. She convinced us to give birth a week before our due date and she still weighed that 8 1/2 lbs. they estimated her at three weeks previous. We went in and I was having contractions 12-13 min. apart and didn't know it...but the nurses said since I was there, and we were scheduled,we had to go on with the induction. (which we did with no drugs except a dose of tylenol and had a natural birth) The monitors and things connected to me all kept me from moving around, something at later births was very helpful. The other five of our children have been born at home with midwives. We found out my dates tend to be a week after the average of 40 weeks. (so our first was probably 2-3 weeks early and was the cheesiest of all the babies) The others were 9 lbs. 14 oz (and folks said that all the others would get bigger...scared me to death!) and was the fastest delivery. The third was 7 1/2 lbs, next two at around 8 lbs. and the last at 10 lbs 2 oz. No complications...though with the second I was given a drug to help control bleeding. Nothing was needed for the other deliveries.
Please be aware of catch phrases used to try to persuade you do things the way dr. wants them after you've expressed your desire to have your delivery a certain way. I haven't heard horror stories concerning Austin doctors and how they do things, but I've heard of stories from other areas (namely El Paso) and the unnecessary procedures that women have gone through...I just think the more you educate yourself the better chance you have having a safe delivery. Will pray for you!

My advice is do not worry about it. I know that sounds ridiculous.

I had my daughter exactly a year ago and she was 9 lbs 13 ounces. I went in to be induced. I was only dilated 1 cm.

After going thru 12 hours of labor pains (thanks to the potosin), I was still only dilated 1 cm. My OB/GYN (who wanted me to have vaginal birth) decided to do a c-section since I had not dilated.

There was no complications and my daughter was very healthy.

Even though I planned and planned and watched video after video to prepare myself, God had a different plan for her entrance to the world and it was fantastic.

As a person who has worked with birth and birthing parents for years, I can't think of anything new to add to what has been said here.

Many doctors are inducing for babies who are "too big" trying to avoid cesarean births, and it hasn't changed the number of cesareans (other than to perhaps raise it).

Weights can be very off -- have seen it a LOT. Trust your body.

No matter what they say about guessing the weight of your baby they are OFTEN wrong. Even if they are not wrong you are certainly capable of delivering a large baby (unless you have some particular issues you have not mentioned). Dont let them scare about something that is not an issue. Read Ina May's Guide to Child Birth, by Ina May Gaskin.....great natural birth success stories that will inspire you!!!

Good luck and just go for it!

I haven't had a chance to read all of your responses yet; there are so MANY! However, I wanted to assure you that while 8.5 pounds or more is big, it's not by any means a record. Nor does it mean you can't have the natural childbirth you desire. My close friend home birthed her child with no drugs and a midwife by her side. Her daughter was 11 pounds! I know she is not the only one to have had a safe, natural delivery of a large child. Stick to your guns, have the childbirth you want, and congratulations!

AFter having 2 inductions and ending with a c-section due to my baby not "being big enough" and "possibly not getting nutrition" he came out 6 lb. 10 oz. due to all the stress he was in the NICU with absolutely nothing wrong with him except his way of doing things.

I would really encourage you NOT to be induced. I cried when my doctor recommended and ultimately scared me into being induced for the "sake of the baby." Next time I will be having a VBAC.

Listen to your body and gut for what YOU want to do. I wish you good luck, peace, and a fast/easy delivery.

I am so happy to hear that couples are still educating themselves using the Bradley Meathod!! I have had 2 Bradley births and charish what Bradley gave me in my birthing experiences!
My Dr. and tech told me my baby would be 11-12.5 lbs at birth and that I should plan a C-section. NO way, I am using the Bradley Meathod and have a birth plan, I said! :o)
Well, refusing any induction, finally 1 week after my due date I went into labor. It was horrible, my water broke but no contractions. I went to labor at the hospital, wishing I could labor at home but worried of infection... I went. After 34 hours of back labor on Patocin I gave in and got a epidural. I got sleep, turned off the epidural and gave birth to my tired, big baby. She looked a couple months old! She wasn't huge, 9.3 lbs but she was 21 inches and had a huge head. She got a little stuck but no C-section. I modified my birth plan but I feel I had my Bradley birth! I used all my education and practice and love my memories of her birth. With out Bradley I would not know about a birth plan, for perinium massage or relaxation and support from my husband among a hundred other things. With out Bradley I know I would have had a C-section!
Don't worry, go for natural and then play it by ear... Bradley is power with education and relaxation! Go with it and stay firm to your beliefes. Just change the plan accoringly. If you need medical help, get it but feel comfortable in your decisions because you have prepared yourself. Don't forget that no matter what your birth is like you are going home with a healthy baby!! That is the goal...healthy baby!!
Good luck, relax and congratulations!
-M. J.

The lab guys are always wrong. I had natural birth with my first. You body is designed to do this very thing without much outside help. Do not let someone scare you into being induced unless there is something wrong w/the baby. You body prepares itself for weeks before you go into labor and interrupting that could give you a harder birth than w/o human intervention. Follow your gut, it is the strongest sense we women have. Don't ignore what it is saying to you. If possible, try the birthing chair. It lets gravity work for you.

Hi Heather!
I also wouldn't place to much faith in the weight estimate they gave you. LONG story short: They told me my son was 9lbs at 38 weeks, this got my OB all worked up so she was determined to induce me at 39 weeks. I wanted a med-free birth! I was considering switching OB's because I was convinced I was capable of handling what ever nature could give me. At my last appointment with her my OB striped my membranes without my consent:( which caused my water to break a day later(39 weeks). 24 hours later, after 12 hours on patocin with no meds, and only at 6cm, they took me in for a c-section. My son was born at 8 lbs 3 oz, normal weight! And I can't help but think that if I had switched to a new doc, I could have done it without a problem vaginally.
I say do what you feel is right, and don't let someone make you do something you are not comforatable with. Our bodies were MADE to birth babies! Congrats and good luck, you CAN do it!

So what is it exactly that you want to know? Whether or not you can deliver a big baby naturally? Yes, women do it every day.

I do know that it is important when attempting a natural birth to be open to your body. Don't stick to laying on your back and pushing from the traditional position. Walking around during labor, using a birth ball, and even pushing from a squatting or sitting position can be of benefit. When you squat down, it opens you up so much more than laying down. You stay a much better chance of the baby coming out and having less interventions like forceps or vacuum extraction.
I would say continue with your plan to have a natural childbirth and just keep in mind that the baby's size might play a part in changing those plans. My own son was over 9 lbs and we knew we were going to have to do a c-section when he wouldn't move down into the pelvis. My doctor was sure he was too big for a vaginal delivery and he was right. Sometimes you just know ahead by signs like that. I wish you a safe and joyful childbirth experience.
Congratulations on your first. It is such an exciting time.

As much as you want natural birth, you should be prepared to change plans. You may be able to deliver him just fine, but keep an open mind. My second boy was 11lbs. 1oz. at birth. I was going for a vaginal birth (not natural) and he would not progress down so we ended up with a c-section. I have a friend that teaches Bradley and she says that bigger babies are supposed to be easier, when done naturally. Sometimes the medication makes the complications. For now, don't worry. Everything could go wonderfully. Just be flexible with your birthing options.

Don't let the ultrasound put fear in your heart and mind. Fear is the worst thing to bring to the labor room! But I do remember the fear of the unknown that first time. And worrying that he is too big isn't going to help calm those fears. But just remember God knows what he's doing. I have had 3 babies, all natural and wonderful. None over 9 pounds, but all 1 to 1 1/2 pounds difference between them, and it all felt the same coming out!! Hahahaha! I do feel that in most cases, your body will grow the size baby it can handle. Just relax and trust God. I hope you've read "Natural Childbirth, The Bradley Way." I didn't really use the Bradley Method, but the information in that book made me feel so knowledgeable and so ready. Childbirth is great. I wish you the best. Just pray, pray, pray, and get ready for the greatest miracle you will ever experience. Congratulations!!

C.

I was told that my daughter was going to be 7 to 7 1/2 pounds the day I went in to deliver. I too wanted to do it naturally. In the end I had to have an epidural due to it taking to long and a couple of other complications I began to have. The epidural never took effect and I actually FELT EVERYTHING. When my daughter was finally born and they weighed her she actually weighed 10 pounds. I would say they were definitely off on the weight. I wanted to add that I did not have diabetes or any other complications during the pregnancy and she was born on time so I was shocked to see her so big when she came out. Good luck to you and your new baby on the way. Sometimes we want and plan for something to go a certain way but it doesn't always turn out the way we plan. In the end, even though I had an epidural I still got to do it natural and admit that I wished at times (when the contractions stopped as her head began to crown and I ended up pushing her out without contractions)that it had taken effect. Best of luck to you and if you have any questions please let me know and I will try and answer them.

I would ignore the "estimates" from the ultrasound tech and just keep trusting your body and baby to know what is right for you. Your body can handle what is has made and your baby knows what to do when labor begins.
I did hypnobirthing, so I learned to release fear and trust my body during labor. I also will tell you that with my one pregnancy that went to 40 weeks, they were off (guessing larger than he was) by at least a pound and a half with the size of my son.
If everything is indeed 3 weeks ahead, be sure you have your carseat installed early! Wash some baby blankets and clothes and freeze some meals if you are so organized and just enjoy the excitement of how it's all going to unfold. I have 3 very different, very wonderful birthing stories and I'm sure you will treasure yours as well. It will begin with "...and we thought you were going to be huge!" :)
P.S. I also had to be induced (for my own health reasons) with my first and third babies and still had natural childbirth (okay, pitocin is not natural, but you know what I mean, no epidural or other drugs). So if it comes down to induction, don't think you have to toss the drug free birthing out the window, it can be done. Insist on patience with the nursing staff and doctors. They love to "speed things up" with breaking water, epidural, etc. If you do it slow and steady with pitocin you can handle it naturally, and your body will kick into gear as if you went into labor on your own. Just some words of encouragement in case you find yourself at "plan B". :)

My mother did natural for a 9.9 lb and a 10 lb baby. Both were induced but she said she did natural with the exception of the doctor giving her demerol to help take the edge off in between contractions but she still could feel everything. The only concern would be tearing but most doctors will automatically make an incision ahead of time especially if they know how big the baby will be.

My son was 9lbs 1oz. I had him naturaly. He is my first and there were no problems. They did have to cut me. But we were both fine. After I gave birth ( which I was very nervous about) I told my husband that wasnt bad at all and I wanted to have more. Just push on the contractions and it helps with the pain. Our son just turned one and has stayed in the 90's% and is doing great. Congrats. If you have any more questions I could answer feel free to contact me.

All about head diameter! I've seen moms deliver BIG babies naturally in my days as baby photograper. Good luck!

I would say go forth with the plan to have a natural childbirth but maybe talk to your doctor about inducing labor early if your worried. Having Pitocin to start your labor doesn't mean you have to have all the other things like drugs and epidurals. But remember that ultra sounds aren't always the best. I don't care how accurate your tech has been, mine spouted the same reputation. I was watched VERY closely due to the suspected large size of our baby. We all decided that it would be better to induce early than deliver a 10 pound baby. I was having ultra sounds every week for the last 6 weeks to watch how big she was getting and to watch for signs that it was safe to deliver early. SURPRISE! She was an average 7lbs 3oz baby two weeks early. The ultra sounds were wrong. So you never know what you're going to get. The only thing we felt really good about was that our baby showed all the signs that delivering early would be safe for her.

I'd also like to add a little about what a few other ladies said. I know some think it's better to just let your body do what it's going to do, and in most cases it works perfectly, but in my experience it's worse to tear than to just deal with it and have an episiotomy. I'm not telling you my story to scare you but if I would have heard this before my baby's birth I may have had second thoughts about the practice. It was even on my birth plan that I handed to the hospital staff that I didn't want one unless it was vital. So I went into labor planning on doing all the techniques to avoid that. I was in labor for 22 hours so it's not like we rushed the process. I did all of it and I still tore. So badly that I ended up tearing so many blood vessels that I had to be taken from my delivery room to a surgical suite to be stitched up. I also had to be given blood because I lost so much. At which I was too weak to hold my baby after she came. My doctor, whom I trust and who isn't surgery happy like many are, said that if I would have had the episiotomy I probably wouldn't have had the complications. And now I'm looking at a possible follow up surgery to "fix" my area down there due to scar tissue and pain with sex due to the irregular tearing. Not fun! I understand not wanting to have extra surgeries but in the good old days where women were giving birth in barns women died from not having the available medical aid. In no way am I knocking natural childbirth or mid-wives. I think it's a wonderful practice to try and have the most natural of births as possible but sometimes life is more important than avoiding medical help. PLEASE Listen to your body AND listen to your doctor. Then make the best decisions you can.

Good luck! And nice middle name! Mine's J. also! :-)
Jen
http://www.mommysjoy.com

I had two very successful home births, so obviously they were natural. My babies were not as big as yours promises to be, but there are some things that my midwives and mother had me do that helped me have my easy births. First was to walk, walk, walk. Even though I would drag my feet, my mom pushed me out the door everyday, and it helped. I also (and sorry this may be TMI)had lots of sex, the stimulation helps, I swear. And most importantly, I took an herb recommended by my midwife called P-N6, which helped my uterus prepare, and made for a fast and easy birth. My second midwife asked me not to take it as we lived in the mountains and she was worried that she wouldn't be able to get there in time. Other things to consider are that it is YOUR birth, not anyone else's, and it is extremely important that YOU are comfortable where you are; at home, in the hospital, on the floor, in bed. It is all about you, and though the father has an opinion, he's not pushing that watermelon out of a golf gall size hole. And, also, you don't have to lay down. I did for my first, because he came so fast. But when I tried with my second, slower birth, it was not comfortable, and I actually had him squatting on the floor over a shower curtain (sanitized). I had to move around to be comfortable. I hope your birth is happy, safe, and just like you want it!!

The female body is a remarkable thing. Keep in mind that many women have been having big babies for years with no problem.

I had a natural birth although my son was about average. One thing you probably need to prepare for is an episiotomy. I'm sure you are familiar with the procedure, but just in case... The OB just numbs the area of the perineum and then makes a small up and down incision to prevent tearing. Episiotomies, although uncomfortable afterward, heal much faster and are much better than tearing! Other than that I bet you will be just fine. You will probably go into labor early, that would be my guess anyway. After all they can only pinpoint the due date within 2 weeks, so really you could go any time now.

Just remember your breathing and let nature and your medical staff do the rest. I know it's scary, but I am sure you will be fine!

Let us know how everything goes! Oh and what hospital are you delivering at?

Good luck!

Hi Heather,
Just had to echo what others have said...all three of my ultrasound weight estimates were wrong. They were all off by about a pound. My girls all weighed between 6 lbs. 8 oz. and 6 lbs. 14oz. Their ultrasound estimates were always about 7 1/2 pounds. So try not to worry too much. Also, be open to whatever happens. The goal is to bring your baby into the world healthy, happy and safe. If that means a c-section then that's what it means...it doesn't mean you have failed. A lot of women get really depressed when things don't go the way they plan...one thing I've learned is that there really is no such thing as a 'plan' when it comes to L & D! You can have a wish list, but you might not get everything on it--and that's okay! I've given birth both without an epi and with, and I highly recommend having one. It is a much more pleasant experience. Also, if you haven't already been doing it, practice your kegel exercises. My 2nd daughter also had a shoulder distosia (like the previous poster), but when I heard my OB tell the nurse to call neo-natal b/c my baby was going to need to be recussitated(?SP?), I pushed like a woman possessed and I got her out. My OB said she'd never seen anyone push like that in 20 years of practice. My daughter came out crying and was fine. But I have strong abdominal and kegel muscles. So do your kegels! Best of luck to you and congratulations!!

The same happened to me. At 36 weeks, my baby boy measured well over 9lbs, with a head circumference measuring 41 weeks! It was pretty scary! I did have an epidural. The thing you need to discuss with your physician is the possibility of shoulder distocia. I was induced (b/c of my bp) at just shy of 38 weeks and he was 8# 11 oz. He did get stuck on my pubic bone, but we were able to deliver him with out any drastic manuvers. Talk to your doctor about your wishes. If it truly appears to be that this is a concern, y'all may consider scheduling a c-section. Shoulder dystocia can be a life treatening condition. I would recommend the epidural to you for two reasons - when a baby gets stuck - it hurts massively. They wind up flexing your legs big time. They may have to give you an extra large episiotomy to give the baby more room, and there are a few other methods that they use, but the last resort is an emergency c-section. If this is the case, you will already have an epidural in place, and they just change out the medicine so you can be awake for you baby's birth. Otherwise, they will just have to put you under general. Remember, that an epidural stays in your spinal fluid, the drug never enters your blood steam, and doesn't hurt the baby. Most epidurals involve an initial dose of med and then they give you a button to push if you are hurting, so you control the amount of medicine. If you wish to feel more, just don't push the button. At any rate, the only reason I'm suggesting being open to the epidural is in case of shoulder dystocia. Educate yourself on this, so you can talk to your doctor about it. It is a scary thing, so being prepared is the best route. Best of luck to you!

I had a big boy- 8 lb 9 oz and 26 inches long at 38 weeks. However big babies run in my family and I have a large frame also, being tall for a woman. I had as "natural" a birth as you can have with preeclampsia (had to have an induction but chose not to have an epidural and delivered in time to avoid a c-section). I read all the Bradley books also.

Also remember that ultrasound measurements could be off at little bit sometimes- your son could still be a 9 pounder at birth.

My recommendation is go for natural (as long as doctor approves/feels it's safe), but have a backup plan in place if labor takes too long wearing you or baby out or you feel too uncomfortable.

First of all congratulations. I don't know much about fundal measures, but I stand only 4'10". I am leterally about the size of a 4th grader (:)) and I managed to squeeze out a 7lbs 13 oz baby. From what I hear, your body will adjust to the size of the baby. Think of how women did it years ago when there were no medications... I think you'll do fine. Good luck and best wishes...

Hi Heather,

My baby was estimated by a very good perinatologist, at about 8lbs with 4 weeks to go. I gave birth one week late to a 6lb 9oz. baby. So, I wouldn't get too wrapped up in what they are telling you. With that said, trust your body. Even if he is a big baby, your body knows what it is doing and should do just fine. Good luck!!

Hi Heather-

My first child was born at 41 weeks weighing 10 lbs. 15 oz! Now, I did have an epidural however it had worn off by the time I was ready to push so I can confidently say that I do know what it's like to deliver a large baby. It's certainly not easy, but it can be done and if you go into the delivery with a positive attitude and just know that if you remain calm and allow your body to do what it's suppose to do, everything will be fine.

As a side note on the weight estimate that you have received, that same nearly 11 lb. child was estimated to be only 8 1/2 lbs just the week before delivery. Obviously, estimates can be wrong!

Good Luck,
K.

I am a mom of 2 big babies.. a boy 10lbs 4oz, and a girl 10lbs 7oz. I had c sections with both. I have heard of girls being able to have a natural birth with large babies and doing just fine. I have also heard that some babies become injured during birth. It is all up to you. I have very small pelvis, hips, and I knew I would end up on a table anyway, so that is why I opted for a c section. I have had a few friends that are adjusted by a good chiropractor during pregnancy, and they have delivered naturally with no trouble. That might be something to look into these last few weeks. I have a good chiropractor that is certified in pregnancy. Email me for his name. Good luck whatever you decide, and in the end, it is your choice, and I believe the only important thing is delivering a healthy baby, no matter how it is done.

My babies were all around 10 pounds and I had no trouble giving natural birth. I am very tall, however (over 6 feet), so, I had no problem delivering big babies (no episiotomy, only needed stiches with the last and she was over 10 pounds). If you are petite, you may have trouble, but us big girls can have big babies without batting an eye (ps, my labors were super fast when they were not induced (5 hours)I was convinced to induce my 2nd cause he was getting "too big" and I was in labor for 14 hours. Once I got to the pushing phase of each of my kiddos, they were out in 3 or 4 pushes). Don't worry and you will do just fine. Congrats on a big strong baby!

I agree with the post that the big baby has not (age 2 on Monday) has not had one ear infection, teething was not dramatic as other stories and my PERSONAL thought is that bigger babies come out cuter because they have already passed that awkward small baby stage. :) LOL
Just make sure that your doctor knows whether your hips are large enough to deliver in advance. I went through 3 hours of labor and found out after I decided to get cut, that my pelvic bones were too small to deliver such a big child naturally.
Anyway, good luck and God Bless You!

Hi Heather,

My Daughter was 10 Pounds 2 Ounces. I had a vaginal birth. (and no epidural)
My very best advice is relax. I know that sounds silly but I truly believe that it is all mind over matter. I realize that when nurses or other people (husbands) are saying to relax you may want to scream… but it is very true. Just try to focus on what is going on with you and your body. Prepare yourself mentally in the next couple weeks. Visualize yourself being calm and in control.
But remember that we are only in control so much. If something doesn’t go according to plan then know that you did your very best and try to remain calm. The doctor will know what is best for your baby and you. After all we do trust them for 9 whole months before we give birth.
My sister had to have a C-section in her 14th hour of labor and was very upset (No need to go into further details) But after she had my son she said that she couldn’t believe how she reacted and wished that she had handled it differently.
You know your body and your limitations. You will do great! Best of luck to you.

Hi Heather
Don't really have an advice for you but to wish you luck. When I had my son 30 yrs ago, I was 18 yrs old. There was not the technology we have today. I was 3 weeks late. (didn't have regular periods, so it was a guess). My son ended up being born at 10 lbs 5 ozs.... I ended up with a c-section (probably because I was so young). Anyway what I wanted to say is that I can count on 1 hand (literally) how many times he went to the Dr. other than his yearly checkups. These visits came when he was older and in school. He was very healthy. Not 1 ear infection. I was happy because I was young and very inexperienced. Whatever you need to go through is well worth a big healthy child.
Good luck and enjoy your precious child.

All the mom's I know who have had babies recently were not the weight the ultrasound said. Mine was 1 lb off and a recent friend of mines was 2 lbs off. I had a natural and quick delivery. I believe I owe it all to my yoga practice and meditation. Plus the good support of my doula and husband. If you set your mind to it and trust in the labor process you can do, the size of the baby doesn't matter. But also keep in mind that every labor is different. I wish you a quick and easy labor!

Don't worry. You can do it. I gave birth to my son now almost 2 naturally with no drugs. He was 9 lbs 2 oz. It may have helped that he was my third and biggest baby. Maybe your baby will come early like mine. He was one week early and ready to visit the world. He was happy, healthy and stil is! Best wishes to you.

they might want to induce you in a week or 2, they will probably have you come in for a stress test to see if there is enough amniotic fluid for him and if the placenta is deteriorating or not from him being so big.
BUT there's no reason you can't give birth naturally, even if he's 9.5lbs! my first baby was 8lbs 12oz, 21". big babies run in my family (my hubby was 9.5lbs and his mom gave birth naturally) yes, i tore with my first baby, but i only pushed for 15 min. it depends on you, your body, and your pain tolerance. if you don't want an epi and don't want the IV pain meds (i don't recommend the IV ones to anyone, i had them and they make you loopy and don't ease the pain much at all), you can always try a spinal block. it's just a shot in your spine and it doesn't make you unable to move around, but it's a HUGE pain relief later on in labor. and don't let them try and tell you that you need a C-section, even if you are petite, i have a friend who is only about 5', maybe 5'1" and she gave birth to 2 big babies vaginally =)

Hi Heather,
when I was expecting my daughter (6yrs ago) I was told by my Doctor that she was going to weigh around 9lbs. She weighed 7lbs 4oz. Please don't worry and enjoy your pregnancy.

Best wishes,
Elisa

I agree with so many of the PP, a reputable lab means squat.

MY "reputable lab" and OB who "has delivered 1000 babies and has NEVER been off on weight" was of by 3 LBS on my second baby. 2 days before I went into labor she assured me he was 7.3 lbs (she was keeping close tabs since my first one was 8.13). I gained less weight and was a lot smaller showing that with my first. Sucker came out at 10.2 lbs! But you know what? It was the easiest delivery ever, 6 hours of labor and only 1 push! So don't worry about it. Whatever will happen will happen.

Hi Heather,
My son was 10'12" and that was one week early. Our ultrsound was spot on accurate as well. It is safer for you and the baby to have a C section if the baby is really big. THere is a real risk of broken or dislocated limbs for the baby and also you could tear your perineum. Safety comes first before natural childbirth. Good luck.

Heather,

Do not fret! I am the proud mom of a baby boy, now 6, that came into the world at a whopping 9lbs. 10oz.!!! I was monitored, as you have been, and they had a few ideas: (1) they thought maybe they had estimated my due date incorrectly and (2) maybe I was expecting twins! Neither were true and my son came on time.

Much like you, I wanted a natural childbirth. I have four children and I had all of them natural. My big bundle of joy was my fourth. All of my pregancies and deliveries were 100% safe and 100% natural. Don't get me wrong, the last one was a challenge, but worth every minute of it.

I guess my advice would be to do what feels best for you. As long as you and the baby are monitored closely it is possible to have a safe delivery even when they are over nine pounds. Personally, I found it all to be about your personal level of commitment. However, even if your delivery doesn't go as planned don't worry. Babies are always full of surprises! Just remember that sometimes the unexpected happens and medications and/or a cesarean may be necessary. The important thing is that your big bundle of joy arrives healthy and safely. As parents, we know we will do whatever it takes, even if it wasn't in our original plans.

Congratulations and I wish you and your family all the best!

J. F.
The M.O.M. Team
www.4MeAndMom.com

Hello Heather,
good for you- My first child, a boy weighed 9.5 lbs at birth- my labor was easy and was only 4 hours- however, he was so big I could not do it all naturally- If you can, great, but your dr. should be on the alert to be with you during this time- A 9.5 lber is wonderful- so good luck and many blessings-