As parents we always want the best for our children and so we strive to do the right thing to ensure our children grow and develop into well rounded little humans. Experts say toys are one thing parents could use to improve brain development, but do we really know what kind toys to use for this purpose?
Tip – prepare for successful breastfeeding by learning what to expect and how to do it! Attend a class if possible during pregnancy. Don’t wait for things to get better on their own. Ask for help from a skilled professional in the first few days if you need it.
There it is, that mind blowing feeling! I smile to myself as the feeling of joy sweeps through my body from my toes up. That feeling is my baby boy Rogan’s kick in my tummy! It gets me every time I feel it. It reminds me there is life growing in me and the feeling of the unknown excites me this time. You see it’s been a year since we experienced baby loss, our identical twin girls, Storm and Logan were born on the 10th of January 2019, Storm, a still born and Logan an NICU baby who survived two and a half days.
Pregnancy may seem daunting to first time moms, so knowing what to expect at all three stages is essential for a safe and stress-free pregnancy.
The Chicco range of cutlery starts when your child first begins to accept a spoon. Beginning with the Silicone Spoon, perfectly suited to small mouths and delicate gums, to the older fork and spoon sets for when baby can start feeding themselves, gradually introducing metal child-sized cutlery for baby to eat just like the grown-ups.
An amazing study done by Loewy J et al. [1] in 2013 showed that soothing music may encourage premature babies to feed better, as well as improve their vital signs (like their O2 saturation levels as well as heart rate). It is speculated that this is one of the reasons why singing lullabies to babies comes so naturally to parents and carers.
All babies deserve something truly special, and Vital Baby offers just that. New to South Africa, this family-focused range will soon be making a wave in the baby care industry.
The weaning period provides the baby with more nutrients and is also an important step for the psychological, emotional and educational development.
Breast-feeding is a special time for mom and baby alike. It creates excellent bonding, and is a primary immunity-building mechanism, but above all else, is the best way to issue nutrition to an infant. Yet it’s not always as simple as others would have us believe and most breast-feeding moms will admit to needing a little help along the way. Chicco has a fantastic range of breast-feeding accessories that can reduce some of the pain and keep breast-feeding a pleasant experience for moms. Chicco Nipple Shields are a silicone shield that fit naturally over the nipple with a tight, natural vacuum adhesion. The slit in the outer nipple allows milk to flow without pooling and the soft silicone is silky smooth, making it almost impossible for baby to tell the difference. They assist with chafing and rawness and allow nipples to recover without the risk of developing of spreading infection. Chicco Nipple Thermogels are perfect for sore, engorged breasts that would benefit from either a cold or hot compress. Easy to apply, the thermogels can be popped in the fridge to cool down, or heated in warm water, and fit perfectly around the breast inside a bra or just while mom rests. Anti-Bacterial Breast Pads from Chicco’s Natural Feeling range is most reliable and gentle way to remain dry all day whilst still breast-feeding. Made from breathable materials, the pads have anti-bacterial properties that help neutralise any bacteria that forms. They are available in packs of 30 or 60. Available at Baby City, www.takealot.com, www.loot.co.za, selected Kids Emporiums & www.Thekidzone.co.za
The Philips Avent breastfeeding range is designed to support you through every step of your breastfeeding journey. Whether you want to develop your milk supply, take care of your breasts, or simply fit more into your day, our breast care accessories make breastfeeding easier.
When my beautiful baby girl arrived, I was determined to breast feed, but, as many new moms will agree, it was far more complicated than I expected.
Most pregnant moms find it hard to get comfortable in bed. Contrary to popular belief it is possible to get a comfortable night’s sleep when you’re pregnant.
Yes! Both parents of a child have an obligation to pay for pregnancy related expenses, which are called lying-in expenses, pro-rata according to their means.
Sleepless nights are often associated with the new-born baby phase, but the reality is that often, a mommy lacks proper sleep even before baby has arrived. Some people laughingly say that this uncomfortable third trimester prepares parents for the lack of sleep that parents will experience once baby arrives.
This beautiful range by Natralogic is a must buy for pregnant ladies. There are so many products on the market that it sometimes makes it hard for moms-to-be to select the very best. Natralogic is a a range worth purchasing. We sent our range to one of our readers and she really enjoyed using the products. The product range comprises of the following: Tummy Cremè Exfoliating Cremè Toning Massage Gel Cooling Leg Gel Nipple Cream The Tummy Cremè helps with the elasticity of the skin using natural ingredients leaving your skin feeling great after use. On their website they recommend that you use this in conjunction with the Exfoliating Cremè and we can see why. Our pregnant mommy loved not only feeling pampered but how her skin felt afterward especially when using the Toning Massage Gel. Certainly the best part of these products is that you can use them while your are pregnant and after to keep your skin looking great! Katherine really enjoyed the Cooling Leg Gel. As they were travelling this last stretch of her pregnancy the heat was really taking its toll on her legs. This really helped her soothe her legs and she was happy that she remembered to pack it in. She also reported that the gel is non-sticky and that she loved that their were all natural ingredients ensuring that not only was she safe but that no harmful ingredients or toxins would come into contact with her unborn baby. The Nipple Cream noted on their website that it is 100% ultra pure medical grade lanolin. Katherine has already been using this during her pregnancy and already felt a difference in just a few applications. She did not want to use it all because she really is looking forward to seeing the true effect when she starts breastfeeding in a month’s time. Not only is every care taken to ensure that these products are effective but their ethos is one to be admired. Their ingredients are certified by Beauty without Cruelty and only tested on themselves and never on animals. Their products are accredited by the International Vegan Society as well. The only exception they note is the Natralogic Nipple Cremè which contains lanolin however notes that no harm comes to the sheep during extractions (lanolin is a product derived from the fleece of sheep) Be sure to visit www.natralogic.co.za to read more about this range and to order online!
Around 9 000 babies are born to Bonitas Medical Fund members annually and while most of these little members are welcomed into the world without any hitches, about 20% of pregnant moms experience complications during childbirth. Many experience challenges of some kind during their pregnancy, or immediately after the birth of their child. For this reason, the Fund is making maternity education and support a focus for 2020. The aim is to offer pregnant members all the support and guidance they need to improve their health and that of their baby. It is about making the pre- and post- birth period as stress-free and healthy as possible.
With World Breastfeeding Week recently celebrated and the focus placed on the importance of breastfeeding to improve the health of babies, it is an ideal time to consider the risks of alcohol for pregnant and/or breastfeeding mothers – and the delicious alternative beverage options that are now available in the market. Today, one of the major risks to a pregnant or breastfeeding woman is alcohol consumption. While many women do limit their intake during pregnancy and breastfeeding, they may not be doing enough. The health risks associated with consuming alcohol during pregnancy, breastfeeding and even conception mean that there are now an increasing variety of alcohol-free beverages for moms and moms-to-be in order to have safer (and healthier) choices. In fact, it turns out that 0.0% non-alcoholic malt beverages can even boost breastmilk supply by stimulating prolactin levels. It also has some other surprising – and quite remarkable – health benefits… Without going into the technical details, the barley malt contains lactogenic beta-glucan. This not only makes it highly nutritious, but when enjoyed 90 minutes prior to breastfeeding, can see an increase in the mom’s milk production. This makes sense, considering that barley is a starchy food that contains complex carbohydrates. The soluble fibre (essentially slowing glucose absorption) contained in the barley can lower cholesterol and even reduce the risk of heart disease. Malt drinks are well known to be both wholesome and highly nutritious, while providing some protein, sugar, essential minerals and levels of vitamins A and B vitamins. It also provides the all-important folic acid that is beneficial during both pregnancy and breastfeeding. The Risks of Alcohol During Pregnancy Here’s how it works, in a nutshell. Alcohol in the mother’s blood passes to the baby through the umbilical cord. This can result in miscarriages, stillbirth, or a range of disabilities that are classified under the term foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). Sadly, South Africa has the highest prevalence of these disorders than anywhere else in the world with 111.1 instances per 1 000 children (the global average is 7.7). The Consumption of Alcohol During Breastfeeding & Alternative Options Conventional wisdom used to state that drinking a beer before nursing could help with the milk ejection reflex. However, more recent studies have shown that infants who are fed milk by mothers who have consumed alcohol tend to take in less milk than those who did not. Startlingly, consuming alcohol while breastfeeding can lead to a multitude of ill effects: disturbed sleep cycles, extreme drowsiness, weakness, decreased growth in the infant, the possibility of decreased milk-ejection reflex and milk quality in the mother, not to mention the impairment of a mother’s natural reflexes that are needed in taking proper care of her child! On the other hand, consuming a non-alcoholic beverage or two means that you get all the benefits without any of the disadvantages – whether pregnant or breastfeeding. Moreover, modern 0.0% non-alcoholic beverage now has the same taste, while being devoid of the negative health side-effects associated with alcohol. Additional benefits include the hangover-free lifestyle and reduced calorie consumption. A win for South African mothers, and mothers all around the world! To celebrate women as everyday heroes, Bavaria threw a surprise baby shower for Itumeleng Nyathi, a Zimbabwean woman who left her country to pursue a brighter future in South Africa. In doing so, she had to walk away from her family and existing support systems. While in South Africa, Itumeleng met her husband Larry and they are now expecting their first child together, a baby girl arriving in September. Itumeleng received a bumper supply of gifts at the event, courtesy of Bavaria and a Johannesburg Mom’s Group – who banded together to provide her with a stroller, car seat, cot, feeding chair, baby bath, bouncer, booster seat, and more. An extra special surprise awaited Itumeleng as she was reunited with her mother, whom she hadn’t seen in several years. This heart-warming story has been turned into a special, shareable video: Please click here to watch By Oliver Wills, Marketing Manager at Bavaria
Natralogic is South Africa’s first all-natural and safety approved range of skincare products designed for use during pregnancy. Now, looking and feeling good doesn’t have to mean exposing your baby to toxic chemicals! Clinically and Dermatologically certified, our products are formulated to maximize effectiveness against common pregnancy skincare concerns such as stretch marks, cellulite, swollen legs/feet and nipple pain from breastfeeding. With Natralogic skincare, you can give your body the best care and address all your pregnancy skincare concerns without worrying about the effects on your unborn baby.
Keeping your body at optimum levels during and after pregnancy can be tough, especially if you are planning on breastfeeding. With everyone having all the advice in the world on how and what you should be doing, it really is important for your baby that you receive essential vitamins and minerals from a brand you can trust. Mom2B has all the answers. Parenting Hub was given Mom2B’s range of Pregnancy Shakes to review. We always have a preggie mom on hand to try new products and Gemma was most excited to take on the challenge. On new mom Jackie, a breast feeding mom was also keen to jump in and try something new! Gemma reported that shortly after starting the shakes that she could feel a difference in her energy levels. With this being a tough pregnancy for her, she was so happy to not feel tired all the time. She reported that the flavours were amazing and not too sweet which is so important. Jackie who is currently breastfeeding said that she found Mom2B’s shakes so quick and easy and a really nice way to supplement her diet. She also felt that her energy levels were up and that she could cope much better with the stress that comes with looking after a newborn. These Mom2B Shakes come in three tasty flavours, chocolate, vanilla and strawberry. They’re packed with vitamins B5, B6, B12, B1, B2, B3, C, D and E as well as biotin, folic acid, zinc, iodine, iron and magnesium. They’re also low in fat, high in fibre and a great source of calcium and phosphorus – all the necessary supplements required during pregnancy. Produced locally by Nativa (Pty) Ltd since April 1999, this wide range of alternative and complementary health products can be obtained through visiting www.mom2b.co.za. Nativa report that feedback from consumers has been excellent, indicating that Nativa products have improved the quality of their lives. Nativa’s values are: Integrity, honesty, excellence, courage and collaboration and through the excellent interaction that Parenting Hub and our clients have experienced, it is very evident that Nativa live up to these values. Parenting Hub highly recommends Mom2B’s range of products.
Life doesn’t stop when you are pregnant. Most of us are still busy with a full day’s work plus the usual cleaning, washing, shopping and cooking chores while sometimes caring for older children as well.
Being a mom can be quite exciting. After all, you’re bringing new life into the world. However, this can also be a stressful time, with a whole bunch of emotions, the potential for strained relationships, and it can take a toll on you. But, here are some tips to stay sane as an expecting mom, and to help you have the happiest pregnancy possible.
Becoming pregnant is one of the greatest gifts a woman could ever experience. Yes, you may have to give up a few things like sushi, your addiction to caramel macchiatos, and your occasional dirty martini, but once you hold that bundle of joy, you realize those small sacrifices are nothing in comparison to the life you just brought into the world. Speaking of sacrifices, there are also sacrifices pregnant women make that they don’t necessarily have to. One of those unnecessary sacrifices that women tend to make is giving up traveling. Air traveling while pregnant is one of the biggest misconceptions in the pregnancy world. The American Pregnancy Association statesthat as long as you are not having any complications or concerns with your pregnancy, it’s perfectly safe for women to travel during their pregnancy. Now, in knowing the pain and discomforts that come with pregnancy, it’s understandable for pregnant women to be wary about traveling. One of the worst things that could happen is to be thousands of feet in the air and experience morning sickness! What You Need to Know The symptoms and discomforts that come with pregnancy can be very mild up to unbearable at times but they aren’t necessarily factors that can prevent you from traveling (unless you’re having complications in your pregnancy). Here are some tips to follow to travel safely and comfortably while pregnant. Air Travel: Pick an Aisle Seat When it comes to air traveling, an aisle seat would be ideal for a pregnant woman. The aisle seat allows you quicker and easier access to the restroom and it also gives you more room to stretch your legs out. [sc name=”Google Ad In Article Ad”] Air Travel: Consider Wearing the Oh-So-Gorgeous Compression Socks Majority of the time, compression socks have been worn by older adults to help with blood flow, and on planes, blood clots are a high risk for not only pregnant women but for people in general, especially those with circulation problems. They’re not the most fashionable type of socks but they are helpful! Some doctors even recommend pregnant women to get up ever so often to do a small walk of the aisle to aid in circulation to the legs and feet. This is another added perk of why that aisle seat will come in handy. ***Big Group Road Trip Consideration: Comfort is Key*** If there is a special occasion coming up that requires you to travel for an extended period of time on the road with a large group of people, you need to have the same type of safety and comfort level in mind as you would on a plane. So let’s say you’re going to your family reunion and everybody really wants to see you now that you’re pregnant. Well, you couldn’t be happier to come but you just need to check on the travel arrangements. You need to let whoever’s in charge of the planning know that in order for you to go, you need to be comfortable. You can even suggest that renting a couple of minibuses would be the best case scenario for not only you but for everyone in attendance as well because those types of buses provide passengers with ample spaceplus, everyone would be able to enjoy each others company on the ride without one person having to worry about navigating through the city. Air Travel: Have Your “Morning Sickness” Kit On Hand They call it “morning sickness” but the truth is that this alleged “morning sickness” can strike at any moment during the course of a day, so when you’re booking your flight be conscious that some flights can trigger nausea with the slightest bump in turbulence. To remedy the nausea that can be associated with flying, you can always ask the steward or stewardess for a clear, caffeine-free soda; the bubbly carbonation is what helps to settle your stomach. You can also keep peppermint oil in your purse or pocket. According to everydayhealth.com, simply smelling peppermint oil can ease nausea. It has that calming and “tingling” effect that actually relaxes your stomach muscles so that the bile in your body can easily break down fats easier. If all else fails, most airlines have those paper (sometimes plastic) bags at each seat in case someone does get sick.
Preparing for a Caesarean birth is a simple, but needed, process. As with a natural birth, there are a few simple tick boxes you will need to have in place for preparation of the arrival of your baby. Read on below now to get the gist of what to consider when leading up to your C-section. The List Of Preparation Tasks For Your Caesarean Who Will Be With You? Consider whom you would like to accompany you into the delivery room before your surgery. Make a list of the people, or person, who you’d like by your side, and make the hospital staff aware of your choice. Do You Want Music? some moms like to listen to a little music before the birth of their baby. If you would like that, consult with your doctor to see if this would be allowed. If you re given the green light, start compiling a play list to help you through your delivery! Do You Want A Camera? ask your midwife if you will be allowed to bring in a camera into the delivery room. If you will be, ensure you designate someone as your photographer. Where Would You Prefer The Screen Placement? if you would like to see the birth of your baby, be sure to ask the doctor to lower the screen upon delivery. Also, if you would prefer no screen, be sure to ask for that pre-surgery as well. How would You Like Delivery To Occur? be sure before you go into your operating room that the staff are aware of your delivery requirements. Would you like silence during the birth so that the first voice your baby hears is your own? How soon post-delivery would you like skin to skin contact with your baby? Be sure to stipulate all of your requirements clearly with your delivery team to avoid disappointment!
C-Section recovery is a much needed practice after welcoming your bundle of joy into the world. But where do you start? How can you begin to heal as a mom who’s jut delivered via Caesarean? How Long Can You Expect A C-Section Recovery To Take? Generally, the expected recovery time for a C-section is around 6 weeks. However, you may feel as though you need a bit longer. This is particularly true for moms who already have children. If you feel you need more down time, just continue to consult with your doctor regularly to keep check on your recovery. Looking after Your Wound You will need to follow your care instructions given to you by your midwife or doctor post-surgery. After the first few days of surgery, your bandaging will be ready to come off and your stiches removed. you should consult your doctor if at any time you feel: As though you are developing a temperature You are experiencing strange sensations such as tummy cramps or you are just not feeling well Your cut begins to act up in any way – swelling, discharge or becomes painful Pain Relief At Home Know that you are bound to experience a bit of pain and discomfort. You did just undergo surgery after all. As such, you will most likely be prescribed pain medication during your recovery time. You will also be able to make use of various products to help your recovery, such as the Upspring C-Panty range.
If you are researching about the respective question, the chances are that either you, or someone close to you, may be facing this situation. Another possibility is that you might have just gotten pregnant, and wants to look into the side effects or changes that pregnancy might have on your body. While I do know that just the thought of it makes you extremely worried and stressed, I recommend that you sit down, drink a glass of water and listen to me carefully. Don’t panic! As it often happens, such sweeping statements on the internet are a cause of panic and stress for everyone. I will start from the beginning, so the first question that you might have is, do all pregnant women experience hearing loss? The answer is no. However, if you have an earache or you think that your ear is ringing you should get it checked even though it is common. The second question may be how can we tell if we are experiencing hearing loss in early stages? The answer is that various symptoms can serve as indicators of hearing loss. Ringing or pressure in the ear, ear pains, and abnormal secretions are symptoms that should be taken seriously. While it is not necessary that they may lead to loss of hearing, and it can be something as familiar as cold. It is better to be safe than sorry. Even if it is something very common you should consult the doctor before taking any prescribed medicine. The time of your pregnancy should revolve around the doctor, your Health & Safety. Here listed below is the answer to your third question, how can hearing loss during pregnancy be solved? One of the following solutions will surely help you out. 1. A Hearing Aid I know just reading the heading is sure to freak you out. However, you should calm down and listen to what I have to say. It is not necessary that you will have to get a hearing aid; it is a possibility. What may happen during pregnancy you may experience hearing loss in one ear or other to some extent. It can be gradual or sudden. What you need to do is make sure you are aware of the changes in your body and consult a doctor at the slightest inconvenience. A hearing aid is not something that you may need permanently; using a hearing aid is only for your benefit. While it may not be permanent, it can be very effective. Some women lose up to 70% of their hearing during their pregnancy, and only 50% can be regained with time. What you should know is that it does get better over time and a hearing aid makes the transition easier. Check out this website doctear for health and safety. Most people don’t need a hearing aid as there is only 10 to 15% loss of hearing and it does not affect their normal everyday functions. However, if you have had a previous condition with regard to your ear bones, you are more likely to have permanent damage and will have to use the device. 2. Ear drops For some people who detect their hearing loss at early stages, drops can be very effective. As soon as you feel a slight discomfort while listening, you should visit the doctor. If the damage is only due to pregnancy, then you have higher chances of just getting rid of it with ear drops. If it is due to a previously present condition that the pregnancy has aggravated, you might have to use other means as per your doctor’s advice. It is necessary that you use drops that have been prescribed to you rather than just getting one from the drug store. 3. Stapedectomy If you have been diagnosed with otosclerosis and it hasn’t yet affected you, the chances are that the pregnancy hormones can accelerate the procedure and lead to great discomfort. In this case, with the recommendation of your doctor, you should look into stapedectomy. For those who are not familiar with this disease, it is the irregular growth of your ear bones. Although it is an invasive procedure, it has a good recovery rate. During the process, the doctors take out the irregular outgrowth and replace it with a device that continues to vibrate normally and therefore does not affect your hearing. However, if you discover that you have this during your pregnancy, it is better to wait for the baby to arrive before you get it done. If you know about it beforehand, you can get it done when you start planning a family. 4. Take Enough Sleep There are different reasons behind hearing loss in pregnancy so your physician might suggest a few basic things, for example, first and foremost would be to take care of your sleeping patterns. If you experience problems with hearing, take complete bed rest and keep your head immobilized in two pillows. Other than that, take as many fluids as you can. Apart from all these things, avoid stress as much as you can. Stress can affect your life adversely especially in the time of pregnancy. Hence, it is something that MUST be avoided. 5. Steroid Injections Last but not least, steroid injections. Recent studies show that steroid injections are also a cure to hearing loss. However, it cannot be administered during your pregnancy, as it may be harmful to the baby. If your doctor recommends steroid injections, it is going to be after you have conceived. However, it alone cannot fix the whole problem; you might have to take some medication as well. You may have to use hearing aid for the transitionary period until you get your hearing back. In conclusion, every problem has a solution, and nothing should stop you from starting your family. As I told you before, while it is absolutely normal, it is not necessary that you might experience it at all. About The Author This article is written by Katherine
Pregnancy is one of the most life-altering experiences for a woman. Pregnancy Awareness Week takes place from 10 to 16 February to strengthen pregnancy education and stress the important issues that promote a healthy pregnancy and safe motherhood1. This year Life Healthcare is focusing on educating women about gestational diabetes. Pregnancy can result in various risks for both mother and baby, the most prevalent of these risks is gestational diabetes, a condition in which a woman without diabetes develops high blood sugar levels during pregnancy. Pregnancy can affect the way a woman’s body processes sugar due to a high volume of hormones produced by the placenta. These hormones block the body’s ability to produce insulin that moves the sugar from the bloodstream into the body’s cells. “Gestational diabetes is most common from 20 weeks of pregnancy and is rarely diagnosed before this. Identifying the signs and symptoms of gestational diabetes isn’t always easy as they are nonspecific, however, a urine test, which is then followed up with a fasting blood test, can ascertain whether an expectant mother has this condition,” explains Dr Liz Radloff, Obstetrician/Gynaecologist at Life Wilgers Hospital. Risk factors for diabetes include being over the age of 25 years, being overweight, having conditions that cause insulin resistance, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and having high blood pressure prior to pregnancy. Gestational diabetes can result in various complications for both mother and baby, including a higher than normal birth weight, preterm labour and low blood sugar in the infant2. “Nutrition is critically important for an expectant mother and child and will assist in decreasing the risk of developing gestational diabetes. It is important for pregnant women to adopt a healthy, balanced diet and establish a regular exercise routine that is overseen and approved by their specialist. It is not recommended that women who are overweight attempt to lose weight once they have fallen pregnant. If weight loss is required, consulting with your specialist and a dietician will ensure that this is done safely to minimise the risk of complications,” explains Dr Radloff. Should diet and exercise fail in managing this condition, medication in oral or injectable forms may be necessary to manage high sugar levels. Generally, gestational diabetes clears after birth, however, mothers who have been diagnosed during pregnancy are likely to develop type 2 diabetes later. If a pregnant woman has gestational diabetes, her risk of type 2 diabetes after pregnancy rises. It is therefore recommended that mothers follow the same diet and exercise plan once their babies have been born. It is vital that expectant mothers listen to their bodies to avoid the risk of developing complications such as gestational diabetes. Life Healthcare places great importance on appointing a qualified and skilled healthcare practitioner to assist and monitor development during pregnancy. The correct medical assistance from a certified healthcare provider will ensure both mother and baby are kept healthy and safe during pregnancy. “Gestational diabetes can be a worrying diagnosis for an expectant mother. However, by managing the condition with your obstetrician/gynaecologist and making well-informed decisions related to your diet and exercise, risks can be mitigated, and expectant mothers can look forward to delivering healthy babies,” concludes Dr Radloff. For more information on pregnancy and pregnancy-related symptoms and developments visit our pregnancy guide in the link below: https://www.lifehealthcare.co.za/media/1567/pregnancy-guide-v2.pdf
Pregnancy is an exciting time for many women. Unfortunately pregnant women also suffer from headaches and migraines, and tend so self-medicate with over the counter medication. According to Dr Elliot Shevel, Medical Director of The Headache Clinic, and South Africa’s internationally recognized Migraine expert and pioneer in the field of Migraine Surgery, “Often the migraines or headaches worsen during the first trimester (the first three months of pregnancy), but don’t despair – in 70 % of women the migraines get better in the second and third trimesters. Unfortunately medication is not a good option during pregnancy, and the only pain medication that is safe is Panado or Paracetamol,” he says. “Unfortunately pregnant women who suffer from migraines with aura, (a term used to refer to warning signs of migraine such as seeing zigzag lines before the pain starts), usually don’t find relief in the second half of their pregnancy and have less chance of improvement.” Two studies show that many pregnant women rely on over the counter medication. The first study, published in the Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association, showed “a significant number of pregnant women relied on over-the-counter medication”. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Isra University Hospital in Pakistan for six months and comprised of 351 pregnant women who were interviewed face to face. Overall, 223 (63.5%) patients were using over the counter drugs before pregnancy and 128 (36.5%) had used them in a previous pregnancy. A further 133 (37.9%) were using the medications during the current pregnancy. Quite worrying is that a total of 103(77.4%) had no knowledge about the possible harmful effects of the medication they were taking. Whilst this study highlighted the frequent use of over the counter medications in pregnant women, another study, published in Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, indicates most women experience automatic relief during their 2nd and 3rd trimesters. So is surgery a viable option in pregnant women? One of the most successful treatment methods for migraine is to close off the small arteries under the skin of the scalp that cause the pain (not the arteries in the brain), by means of minimally invasive surgery. Commenting on the surgery during pregnancy, Dr Shevel says, ‘We usually wouldn’t do the surgery during the first three months of the pregnancy because the drugs used in the sedation or anaesthetic may affect the fetus and cause problems. After the first trimester the operation is safe to perform, but we prefer to wait until the baby is born to avoid any possible unforeseen complications. Sometimes however, an expectant mother is just in so much pain that the operation can’t wait.” Other pressing issues Expectant mothers always have a lot of questions about headaches and migraines. Here are some answered: Will the baby be affected by the trauma and pain of my headache? No, says Shevel. “There is no evidence to indicate this, but the baby can be affected by a medication the mother is using and that is why we are saying only Panado or Paracetamol is safe.” Is there an ingredient in the pill that aggravates or makes headaches worse? The short answer is yes. “The pill contains a variety of different hormones, and changes in those hormone levels can affect the headaches. It is interesting to note however, that although they can make the headaches worse, they may also sometimes make them better – it’s impossible to predict.” What role does breastfeeding play? According to Shevel breastfeeding can also play a role. “If women breastfeed after birth the headaches usually stays away until the baby is weaned. “
Lil-Lets has launched a new line of maternity pads designed to help new moms feel more comfortable, confident and protected after giving birth. During pregnancy, a woman’s body goes through lots of changes and this does not stop after delivery. Therefore, unlike other maternity pads on the market, Lil-Lets maternity pads are shaped for extra comfort, have wings for added security, a wide shaped back for complete confidence and protection and a super soft cover. Lil-Lets maternity pads are also fragrance free and individually wrapped to make it easy and discreet to carry in a handbag or baby bag. “Lil-Lets understands that every woman has unique needs and, as such, should be able to choose what works for her,” says Carolyn Purdy, Brand Manager at Lil-Lets. “The launch of our new maternity pad line is just one more option on offer within our range to ensure women feel comfortable and confident during the weeks following childbirth, giving them the freedom to focus on their new arrival.” Lil-Lets’ products include pads, non-applicator and applicator tampons, liners, intimate care washes and wipes. Lil-Lets maternity pads are available in a pack of 10 and can be found at your nearest supermarket and retailers nationwide from R39.99. For more information visit www.lil-lets.co.za
There’s nothing else quite like pregnancy to sharpen your focus on your health and well-being. The journey of carrying and nurturing new life within your body is an exceptionally special time, and moms-to-be are deeply invested in doing it as well as they can. Advice will inevitably come from all quarters, and it is important to tap into expert sources that will give you peace of mind that you are on the right track. The aim of Pregnancy Awareness Week this month is to help moms access the information they need to support a healthy pregnancy and safe motherhood. The Department of Health urges pregnant South African women to access antenatal care as early as possible in their pregnancies. This provides the opportunity to understand and manage any health issues, as well as get information on important factors such as self-care and nutrition. Once the pregnancy is confirmed by a nurse at a health facility, the mother can register for MomConnect, a free cell phone-based resource for accessing pregnancy-related health information. Nazeeia Sayed, a registered dietitian and spokesperson for ADSA (Association for Dietetics in South Africa), points out that good nutrition is vital as it supports a healthier pregnancy and a healthier baby. “Pregnancy is a great opportunity to get yourself and the family into the habit of healthy eating before the new baby arrives,” she says. “You don’t need special or expensive foods. A healthy diet during pregnancy is made up of foods that we commonly encounter when grocery shopping. A variety of fruit and veg, whole grains, legumes and lentils, dairy, plant fats and lean meats, fish and eggs can all be enjoyed while you are pregnant and will provide the nutrients you need.” What nutrients should moms-to-be focus on? Following a balanced diet according to the accepted healthy eating guidelines is the optimum nutritional route to support a healthy pregnancy. Pregnancy is definitely not the time for weight loss or fad diets that focus on particular nutrients at the expense of others. Registered dietitian and ADSA spokesperson, Cath Day says, “Energy (kilojoule) restriction during pregnancy is not recommended! High protein diets which increase ketone production are also not recommended as the foetus has a limited ability to metabolize ketones. It is much healthier for you to adopt a balanced diet with a good variety.” Nutrients such as folic acid, calcium, iron and protein are all important to the developing baby; however a balanced diet will, in most cases, meet these needs. Women enrolled in the government’s antenatal care programme will receive supplements of the essential micro-nutrients; and many women choose to supplement with folic acid to prevent the risks of Spina Bifida and cleft palate. Day points out that meeting protein requirements during pregnancy is as simple as ensuring that you eat roughly six servings or between 180 g- 210 g of protein each day (size of two palms or two decks of cards). One serving equates to 30 g lean meat or fish, 1/2 cup of legumes, 15 g nuts or one egg. “These are also the best sources of iron which is needed to prevent anaemia,” she says. “By eating fruit and vegetables high in vitamin C at the same time as eggs, nuts and pulses, you can enhance iron absorption from these foods.” Focusing on a variety of healthy foods for each meal or snack, rather than the particular nutrients, is what helps to ensure you and baby get what you need. Sayed says, “Some examples of this are choosing nutrient-dense meals or snacks like an omelette with veg, a fruit and yoghurt smoothie, a salad with raw veg, nuts or lean meat; or a cooked lentil dish with green leafy veg and rice.” What should moms-to-be avoid? Smoking tops the list of what shouldn’t be going into a pregnant body. While there’s debate about whether drinking one glass of wine is safe for a growing baby, many experts and governments around the world advise a complete avoidance of alcohol during pregnancy. Pregnant women should avoid foods with a greater risk for contamination with Listeria or other bacteria or parasites, including under-cooked meat and eggs, raw fish, processed meats and unpasteurised dairy and soft cheeses. Dietitians also advise avoiding fish that may contain high levels of mercury such as swordfish, shark, tuna steaks and canned fish brands that are not tested. Caffeine intake should be limited, and rather swopped out for decaf options, with water as your best beverage of choice. Foods that are high in salt, sugar and other refined carbohydrates should be limited as they crowd out the opportunity for you to eat healthy foods which provide for your vitamin, mineral and fibre needs. They can also lead to excessive weight gain which increases your risks of developing high blood pressure issues and gestational diabetes. Reach out and get help when you need it Healthy eating during pregnancy does not have to be complicated or a minefield. It might be more challenging for moms-to-be who need to make big changes; or who are overweight or managing other health conditions. A registered dietitian can be an important ally to come up with a healthy eating plan that suits your food preferences, your budget and your lifestyle. “The big advantage of using your pregnancy as the inspiration to eat well is that you can go on to become a healthy eating role model for your precious child, instilling healthy eating habits that can last them a lifetime,” Sayed concludes. To find a registered dietitian in your area visit www.adsa.org.za.
No doubt you’re excitedly waiting for your little bundle of joy to make his or her entrance into the world. During the last few weeks of pregnancy, it’s natural to feel tired and to experience an achy back. After all, your baby grows a whopping six inches during the last trimester, according to Health Line. However, these final weeks provide you with ample opportunity to prepare for the big day and the big changes that come with a newborn. Set up nappy changing stations A newborn baby will typically go through 12 disposable nappies per day. With so many nappy changes to come, it’s best to be prepared. Set up a nappy changing station which provides easy access to wipes, nappies, nappy sacks, and nappy rash ointment both upstairs and downstairs. By having multiple stations in your home, you won’t have to constantly run up and down the stairs with a baby in tow, using up all your energy. Batch cook The foods you eat are passed onto your baby in your breast milk, so it’s important to eat well after giving birth. Even if you’re not breastfeeding, you’ll need good nutrition in order to keep your energy levels up. Therefore, use the last few weeks of your pregnancy to batch cook nutritious and healthy meals which can be pulled out of the freezer following your baby’s arrival. Lasagnes, cottage pies, stews, and casseroles all freeze well and will provide you with satisfying meals, too. Prepare your hospital bag It’s advisable to have your hospital bag packed and ready to go by the time you’re 36 weeks pregnant. However, when you’re preparing to give birth, some mums-to-be prefer to leave the packing until last minute so they can be sure they’ve got everything that they need. Following a vaginal birth, you can expect to stay in the hospital for two days and one night. Whereas, after a c-section, you’ll most likely stay for three days and two nights. Therefore, it’s essential you’ve got enough supplies to see you through. Be sure to pack plenty of nappies and baby toys for your little one. Meanwhile, you’ll need items to keep you comfortable, such as pyjamas, dressing gown, and slippers, as well as more practical items, including disposable underwear and maternity pads. Rest up and relax Show Me South Africa reports that 24% of new mums only manage to get two to hours continuous sleep following the birth of their baby. Therefore, the last few weeks of pregnancy should be embraced and utilised. Use this time to get as much rest and to relax as much as possible. Catch up on your favourite shows, get a massage or have a manicure and relish those last few baby-free weeks. Parents-to-be should ensure they enjoy the last few weeks of pregnancy and use this time to prepare for their baby’s imminent arrival. By setting up nappy stations in your home, batch cooking and freezing meals, getting your hospital bag ready, and resting, you’ll be more than prepared for your newborn’s arrival.
