Lyn, hope everything is ok with u. do update us after u check up tmr.. strange that ur gynae didn't ask u to go down to the hospital straight.. fresh blood and clots are emergency case leh..
Vanilla, Ayana, initially baby movements are like internal kicks.. u aren't able to feel it through ur skin yet.. closest way i can describe it is like bubbles popping or when u have gas in ur tummy.
Now mine has progressed to me being able to feel the movement through the skin and baby is very very active.
Re: helper
Like I mentioned before, it all depends on 2 things: how strong u are mentally, and ur support network. if u are the kan cheong spider type, a bit of thing sends u into a panic, then may be getting a helper will be better.. If u have no support or have overbearing inlaws or parents, then having a helper help u have a barrier btw them. that said, some helpers have their own ways of doing things and might not see eye to eye with u. I recommend u gals to get the book, What to Expect - the first year. and also Gina Ford's book Contented Baby to read. both books offer very different perspectives, but it gives u different methods of taking care of the baby.
U can also prepare urself by talking to ur spouse on the following topics:
1) What's hb's role? do u want him to do one bath time with baby a day?
2) breastfeeding - can both of u agree? what level of support is he willing to give?
3) irritating comments - how to handle insensitive elders that talk too much?
4) Routines for baby - follow baby's lead or do u set the routine?
5) Believing old wives tales and scientific proof - can u and ur hb agree?
These are some issues i find that many first time moms sweep under the carpet, only for them to come out when the baby arrives. having common understanding helps both of u when u are all tired from lack of slp and feeling flustered at the 101 different recommendations from well meaning frens and relatives. that's why i suggest really widely and separate fact from fiction and most importantly stick to ur gun.