happymom2510
from the net, I think baby bump should starts showing after 16w. I am now in 16w, but tummy doesn't grow much, rather I feel fatter. doesn't look pregnant at all. but my friends and gynae assure me that so long our baby is growing at the right rate, there's nothing to worry abt our physical appearance. instead, we should be happy coz we wont have stretch mark if our tummy is smaller!
W.R.T. CL. If I am "interviewing" the CL, I would want to see if they will help in those "value added" services. of coz I would not expect them to help to clean my whole house la. but attitude is very important. I would not want to engage a CL who only come my house and watch tv other than taking care of my baby. the lady I engaged, she asked if I have a maid at home. when I said no, she said she don't mind helping to vacuum my living room, but she did mentioned its out of goodwill. for this I greatly appreciate her gesture. perhaps you may want to call a few more before deciding.
ah_mei_08
as for whether to engage a CL, I would strongly suggest you to get. you will need plenty of rest after delivery and how are you going to rest and take care of baby at the same time without help? not to mention people cooking confinement meals for you. however, if you do have help from inlaws or parents, perhaps you may revisit this idea. I also have friends whom their confinement was done by their parents/inlaws, that they regret. they would rather spend the money to engage a CL.
so it all depends on your preference. I am a first time mom, so above is just my personal opinion. hope it helps.