Pregnancy - Parenting Hub

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WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR BREAST CHANGES DURING AND AFTER PREGNANCY

Breast changes within a pregnant woman are truly incredible. The topic of breast development is one which is grossly misunderstood. Most women have an incorrect knowledge of how their own body develops. For most of ladies, it is assumed that by the time they have gone through puberty, that their breasts are fully developed. But this is wildly incorrect. Puberty is actually just the beginning of breast development. Within this article, we will discuss the actual development cycle of a woman’s breasts and what changes she can prepare herself for both during, and after pregnancy. You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet! How Breasts Develop After Puberty Many people link breast development to size. Simply put, this is the wrong measure to take. Whilst a woman’s breast size will remain relatively the same from puberty up until pregnancy, the real development happens within the tissue itself. Breasts actually continue to develop every time a woman menstruates. When it is that time of the month, a lady’s breasts begin to produce small amounts of secretory tissue. This is the tissue that allows milk production to take place. This cycle will go on until a woman either reaches the age of about 34, or she falls pregnant. Naturally, another question arises in light of this knowledge. If a woman is consistently creating additional tissue, why do the breasts not get bigger as she gets older? Well, the breast actually replace the older cells within them when creating the new ones. As such, the old cells are replaced by the new. This is also why a lady’s breasts become incredibly sensitive during this time. In a nutshell, the body only begins to develop a woman’s breasts from the end of puberty onwards. But, what happens when you fall pregnant? Breast Development During Pregnancy Pregnancy is truly a miraculous time for a woman. Multiple changes begin to happen within your body. Your hormones sore, your bodily functions begin to change, but above all, a tiny being begins to grow within you. This period can be seen as your breast development heyday. During this time, your breasts will grow into full maturity. And it all begins after month one of falling pregnant. The first notable thing a woman will experience is the sensitivity of her breasts. This is actually one of the most common first signs of pregnancy. This is caused by the sudden change in hormones within her body. Within the first four to six weeks, the breasts will be particularly sensitive – similar to how they feel during a period. For the first trimester of her pregnancy, a woman’s breasts will remain sensitive. Visible Physical Changes The next change is one you will physically be able to witness. During pregnancy, breasts may go up by a cup size. This change happens particularly in first time mothers. Some ladies even go up by two sizes during this time. You will start to see the beginning of this growth from about six to eight weeks into pregnancy. Breasts may also begin to feel particularly itchy during pregnancy. This is due to the tightness of the skin within the area as the breasts grow. Some women have even developed stretch marks on their breasts during pregnancy from the sudden growth. Areola Changes Another physical indication of breast change during pregnancy are prominent veins. When pregnant, a woman’s breasts may begin to show large, blue veins running through them. This is attributed to the act that the veins will expand to accommodate extra blood flow of the growing breast tissues. Don’t be alarmed if you notice this on yourself – it is completely natural and will fade once you have given birth and stopped breastfeeding. Additional colour changes to expect occur within the areola’s. During pregnancy, it is common for a woman’s areola’s to become slightly larger, and darker in colour. Your areola’s will also develop pronounced bumps, known as Montgomery’s tubercles. These are oil producing glands which are common within pregnancy, and help lubricate the nipples during this time. Tissue Changes As far as changes are concerned, the first thing which begins to change in the tissue structure are the amount of milk ducts within the breast. The hormones released during pregnancy send messages to the breast structure informing it of the need to increase the number of ducts – as feeding will soon begin. As such, a burst of ducts begins to develop within the breast tissue. Lactocytes are another tissue addition within the breasts during pregnancy. These are actually the milk production cells. Naturally, the body will need to develop these as they are the power houses behind breastfeeding. Other Changes The next set of changes do not necessarily happen within all women. Firstly, there is the possibility of the breasts leaking. During the third month of pregnancy, a woman’s body begins to produce the liquid substance known as colostrum. This is also known as liquid gold, as it contains nutritional value second to none for babies. However, during the last few months of pregnancy, the breasts may actually leak a tiny bit of colostrum. This happens frequently in some women, may start earlier in others, and may not occur for some moms. If you experience a breast leakage, don’t be ashamed. Invest in a few disposable breast pads and wear these during this time. Another pregnancy change could be that of lumpy breast tissue. Some ladies may develop umps within the breasts during pregnancy. This can commonly be associated to milk-filled cysts beginning to appear. These should subside once the woman begins to pump r breast feed. How to Deal With Breast Changes During Pregnancy Breast changes can be uncomfortable for some women. Even if they are not causing discomfort to you, there is something every pregnant woman needs to invest in; nursing bras. Nursing bras or apparel is a must have for all moms to be. These are designed to optimise comfort both during pregnancy and after. They also allow for easy feeding

October 26, 2023

10 WAYS TO CARE FOR YOUR MENTAL HEALTH DURING PREGNANCY

Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, explores ten ways to care for your mental health during pregnancy. While pregnancy is a time of excitement and anticipation, it is common for women to experience a range of emotions, including anxiety, mood swings, and even depression. “Hormonal shifts, such as the surge of progesterone, oestrogen, and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), can significantly impact a woman’s mood,” explains Murray Hewlett, CEO of Affinity Health. “In addition to hormonal influences, the physical changes associated with pregnancy, such as nausea, vomiting, backache, and alterations in body image, can induce stress and affect emotional well-being. Furthermore, sleep disruptions and the significant life changes accompanying pregnancy can further contribute to emotional upheaval.” Acknowledging the complexity of these factors and their potential impact on mental health during pregnancy is essential. By prioritising mental well-being alongside physical care, women can nurture a positive and supportive environment for themselves and their growing baby. How To Prioritise Your Mental Health During Pregnancy Educate Yourself Hormonal fluctuations can trigger mood swings and emotional instability, and understanding these changes can provide reassurance that what you’re experiencing is normal. Read reliable books, attend prenatal classes, and consult your healthcare provider to learn about pregnancy’s psychological aspects. Talk About Your Feelings Communication is critical during this period. Talk openly about your feelings with your partner, friends, family, or healthcare provider. Sharing your experiences can help you process your emotions and reduce feelings of isolation. Stay Active Endorphins, which are natural mood boosters, are released during exercise. Regular physical activity can help manage stress and anxiety, enhance sleep, and boost energy levels throughout pregnancy. Gentle workouts such as walking, swimming, or pregnancy yoga are ideal. Before beginning any fitness routine, always consult with your healthcare physician. Healthy Eating What you eat can significantly impact your mood and energy levels. A healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains will help your mental health. Avoid excessive caffeine and processed foods, which can increase anxiety levels and mood swings. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation Mindfulness and meditation techniques can help reduce stress and anxiety throughout pregnancy by focusing on the present moment. Deep breathing, progressive muscular relaxation, and guided imagery are all options. Consider taking a prenatal meditation class or using meditation apps to help you during your pregnancy. Prioritise Rest and Sleep Fatigue can exacerbate emotional instability. Prioritise rest and make sure you’re getting enough sleep. If you’re having trouble sleeping, discuss it with your healthcare provider. Simple strategies like limiting screen time before bed, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, and creating a calm, dark sleep environment can help. Establish a Support Network Surrounding yourself with a support network can make a significant difference. Whether it’s family, friends, healthcare providers, or a support group of other expecting mothers, having people to lean on can provide emotional stability and reassurance. Seek Professional Help If your emotional distress is persistent, affecting your daily life or causing you to have thoughts of harming yourself or others, it’s essential to seek professional help immediately. Therapists and counsellors are trained to help you navigate these challenges. In some cases, medication may be recommended. Limit Information Overload While it’s good to be informed, the sheer amount of information available can be overwhelming and anxiety-inducing. Limit your consumption of pregnancy-related information to trusted sources and avoid excessive searching and reading, particularly of scary or negative stories. Self-care Rituals Taking time to nurture yourself can boost your mood and overall well-being. Engage in activities you enjoy, pamper yourself, and practice self-care rituals. These include reading a book, taking a warm bath, listening to music, or spending time in nature. Conclusion Pregnancy is a remarkable journey, filled with moments of joy, anticipation, and inevitable challenges. By consciously caring for your mental health during this time, you’re nurturing yourself and creating a healthy environment for your growing baby. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and prioritise your well-being. Your mental health matters – for both you and your baby. About Affinity Health Affinity Health is South Africa’s leading health cover provider, offering you a range of options at affordable rates, including access to the widest national provider network. We understand the importance of having medical insurance that meets your needs, budget, and lifestyle. Our healthcare products are designed to protect you and your family when it matters the most. We strive to give our clients peace of mind and the highest standard of service. For more information, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

October 20, 2023

Does what you eat in pregnancy matter?

There’s nothing quite like pregnancy to focus your attention on your health and well-being. Most moms-to-be naturally have questions and concerns about their nutrition so that they meet the needs of their growing baby. Of course, you also want to maintain a strong and healthy body that is well-prepared for birth and the rigours of new motherhood. Healthy eating during your pregnancy helps to ensure a healthy pregnancy weight and helps your baby develop normally and have a birth weight of at least 2.5 kilogrammes. Pregnancy is not the time to be experimenting with diet fads or taking ‘nutrition advice’ from non-experts. Rediscover Dairy dietitian, Maretha Vermaak says, “For your baby to be born healthy, growth and development need to happen on quite a strict schedule during each of the trimesters and therefore these timeframes are called ‘critical periods’. If certain nutrients are in short supply during these critical periods, development or growth may be disrupted. Having a healthy, nutrient-dense diet even before you fall pregnant will give you and your baby a good start.” No, you don’t need to ‘eat for two’ This adage is often interpreted as eating double, but your energy needs during pregnancy actually increase very little. In the first trimester you have no increased energy needs. In the second trimester, you need approximately 1470 extra kilojoules, and in the third trimester, that increases to only 1890 extra kilojoules. However, kilojoule counting is not an exact science, and it’s too hard to accurately maintain on a daily basis. Maretha says, “It can be helpful instead to monitor your weight gain and increase or decrease your energy intake relative to that. However, the best approach is to focus on your nutrient intake, understanding the role of nutrients in a healthy pregnancy and making sure that the nutritional quality of your food is good.” Nourishing nutrients you need From conception to birth, your baby’s cells will divide rapidly, highlighting the importance of having the right fuel to support these processes. Here are six ‘star’ nutrients to focus on: ● Protein – During pregnancy your protein needs increase by 50% to support the development of your growing baby’s body. However, most people exceed the daily recommendation for protein (0.8g/kg/day) and so increasing your protein intake is not likely to be necessary. What you can do is focus on the quality of the protein you consume. Choose a variety of animal and plant-based proteins and opt for minimally-processed foods. Some examples of good protein choices include milk and other dairy products such as maas, yoghurt and cheese; fatty fish such as sardines, pilchards or cooked seafood; meat and poultry, eggs, legumes, nuts and seeds. ● Folate – This is a B-vitamin that is critical for DNA synthesis and cell division. Not having enough folate can lead to neural tube defects in your growing baby. This nutrient is so important that all women of childbearing age are advised to consume it in adequate amounts. Foods rich in folate include dark-green leafy vegetables, fruits and grains as well as nuts, legumes, seafood, eggs, dairy products, meat and poultry. ● Iron – Additional iron is important for mom, because during pregnancy blood volume increases, which means that there are more red blood cells with each needing iron to function. Additional iron is also stored by your baby, especially in the final weeks of gestation. Many women enter their pregnancies with low iron stores and so the risk for iron deficiency anaemia increases as the pregnancy progresses. Good sources of iron are red meat and eggs. Eating vegetables and fruit high in vitamin C together with iron-rich foods will improve the absorption of iron Tip: As milk and dairy inhibit the absorption of iron, it is best to have iron-rich foods (or a supplement) during the day rather than with breakfast, which usually contains milk or dairy products. ● Zinc – This is an important mineral for cell division and immune function, but women generally do not get enough of this nutrient every day. Animal foods such as meat, seafood and dairy products, and also plant-based foods such as legumes, nuts and seeds are good sources of zinc. ● Omega-3 fatty acids – Brain and eye development rely on adequate levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Protein-rich foods such as fatty fish, nuts and seeds are good sources of omega 3 fats too. ● Calcium – Pregnancy boosts your body’s ability to absorb and store calcium. Consuming about 1200 mg of calcium a day during pregnancy calcium is important not only for forming your baby’s bones and teeth but also for maintaining your own bone health. Milk and dairy products such as maas, yoghurt and cheese are great sources of calcium that is easily absorbed by the body. Three to four servings of dairy a day are recommended to help you reach your required calcium intake. Fish usually eaten with their bones, such as tinned sardines, can also be a valuable source of calcium. One extra micronutrient One nutrient that we have not touched on is iodine which plays a role in the production of thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones impact on maternal energy metabolism and support the growth and development of the baby in the first trimester. In addition, it is a vital nutrient for proper brain development, potentially affecting neurocognitive outcomes of children later in their lives. During pregnancy, thyroid hormone production increases by 50%, which means you need to make iodine-rich foods part of your diet. In South Africa, many people meet their iodine needs by using iodised salt. However, as eating a lot of salt is generally not recommended, especially for those with high blood pressure, it is best not to rely on iodised salt as your only source of iodine. Milk and dairy products can contribute greatly to iodine intake. What else may be missing? Fibre! A high-fibre diet not only offers many health benefits, but it can also help to reduce constipation during pregnancy. Many women experience constipation during

October 19, 2023

Tips for Breastfeeding Success!

After the birth – Keeping your baby with you after the birth will promote a feeling of closeness and a strong hormonal response that is linked with breastfeeding success. In many cases, it is even possible to have your baby with you immediately after a caesarean birth

October 17, 2023

Understanding Your Breastfeeding Rights in the Workplace

As a new Mother, nothing will be more important to you than the well-being of your newborn infant, as your instinct ignites the powerful force of motherhood within you to protect and nurture your baby. A newborn requires exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of its life for optimal growth and development and continued breastfeeding, combined with solid foods, for two years or longer. Working mothers returning to jobs and careers following their maternity leave period will face the challenges of juggling work and home responsibilities. Unfortunately, according to a 2021 survey, the number one reason why new mothers stop breastfeeding their newborn infants is due to having to return to work. While South Africa has legal rights in place for breastfeeding mothers in the workplace, there are challenges new mothers may face in trying to exercise these rights. According to a survey done in 2021 by the South African Breastfeeding Association, only 20% of companies have dedicated breastfeeding rooms in the workplace. According to South Africa’s Basic Conditions of Employment Act, the legal rights of breastfeeding Mothers in the workplace in South Africa are: Breastfeeding mothers are legally entitled to two 30-minute breaks per day for breastfeeding or expressing milk if their infants are younger than 6 months. Breastfeeding breaks are paid time. Employers should provide a clean and private area for breastfeeding or expressing milk, as well as a facility for storing the milk. Breastfeeding mothers should not be discriminated against or harassed for choosing to breastfeed or express milk at work. However, the challenges that breastfeeding mothers may face in trying to exercise these rights are: The Code of Good Practice does not specify whether the breastfeeding breaks are in addition to or part of the normal breaks, such as lunch or tea breaks. The Code of Good Practice does not require employers to give breastfeeding mothers a suitable space for expressing or storing their milk, nor does it specify the minimum standards for such a space. The Code does not impose any penalties for employers who fail to comply with its provisions, nor does it provide any remedies for breastfeeding mothers who are denied their rights. According to BioMedCentral, the survey conducted in March 2021 involved 1000 working mothers across South Africa who had given birth in the past two years. It found that only 20% of companies have dedicated breastfeeding rooms for working mothers, and 40% of mothers had to use public spaces such as toilets, storerooms, or their cars to breastfeed or express milk. The survey also revealed that 60% of mothers felt unsupported by their employers and colleagues when it came to breastfeeding, and that 30% of mothers had stopped breastfeeding before six months due to work-related challenges, highlighting the need for more awareness and action from employers, policymakers, and society to create a more enabling environment for breastfeeding mothers in the workplace. Some employers may be unaware of or unwilling to accommodate the needs of breastfeeding mothers and may create a hostile or unsupportive work environment for them: “My employer did not provide any space for me to pump, so I had to use the bathroom. It was dirty, noisy, and uncomfortable. I felt like I had no privacy or dignity. I often got mastitis and low milk supply. I hated every minute of it,” says Maria, who is a cashier. Some co-workers may be ignorant or insensitive to the benefits and challenges of breastfeeding and may make negative comments or jokes about it. Luckily this was not the case for Fatima, a machine operator in a factory where there are mostly men. “They were very sympathetic to my breastfeeding. They helped me find a quiet corner where I could pump, and they covered for me when I took breaks. They never made any jokes or remarks. They treated me like a normal coworker.” Certain breastfeeding mothers may feel embarrassed or uncomfortable about breastfeeding or expressing milk at work and may face social stigma or pressure from their workplace, families or communities. Ashley, a nurse, had to quit her job because her employer refused to accommodate her breastfeeding needs. “They said it was too disruptive and costly. They threatened to fire me if I kept asking for breaks and space. I felt discriminated against and harassed. I wish I had more legal protection.” Marketing manager Jessica had a more understanding employer. “I was lucky enough to have a supportive boss who let me use his office to pump whenever I needed. He also made sure that no one disturbed me or made any rude comments. He even bought me a mini fridge to store my milk in. I felt valued and respected as a working mother.” At Vital Baby we care about parenting and bring you tips on how to navigate your work-life balance and make breastfeeding work for you so you can give your child the best start in life, wherever you may find yourself. It is important to: – Know your rights. Be prepared to negotiate with your employer for more flexible work arrangements, such as flexible hours, part-time work or extended maternity leave. Plan ahead. Before you return to work, discuss your needs with your employer and colleagues about your breastfeeding needs. Discuss a suitable space for breastfeeding or expressing milk at work. If it is impossible, express extra milk and store it in the freezer so your baby can still benefit. Electric and manual breast pumps are small and non-disruptive. The Vital Baby Flexcone Electric Breast Pump Gift Set R2199.99 makes the perfect maternity gift set from the office and includes everything a new mother needs to maintain breastfeeding; it includes the Vital Baby electric breast pump, a breast like feeding bottle, slow flow teat, silicone breast cup, a manual conversion kit so it works during load shedding, bottle stand, charge cable and plug adapter, six ultra comfort breast pads, 30 easy-pour breastmilk storage bags and 2 protect and care silicone nipple shields. The Vital Baby Manual Breast Pump Gift

October 10, 2023

Baby monitor. Do I really need one?

The question I get asked is ‘is it really necessary? After all my parents did without and I turned out just fine!’. Baby Monitors come in all shapes and sizes but it’s all about what fits into your lifestyle and meets your needs as a parent.

August 31, 2023

Keeping Fit while you’re Pregnant

Sports Science Institute Biokineticist, Zoe Woodman, gives us her advice on the do’s and don’ts of keeping fit during pregnancy.

August 29, 2023

How to use a breast pump: 12 top tips

Learning how to use a breast pump can take time and dedication, but is well worth the effort. Read our expert breast pumping tips to help set you on the path to successful expressing. Like any skill worth having, it might take you a bit of time to get the hang of using a breast pump. The key is to be patient, even if you’re not able to express as much as you’d like right away. After all, a breast pump won’t stimulate the same feelings in you as your baby does. But, with time, your body will usually learn to trigger your let-down reflex when you pump, and the quantity of milk you express should increase. 1: There’s no need to rush to start pumping… In the first four weeks, you and your baby work together to initiate and build your milk supply. If your baby is healthy and breastfeeding is going well, you won’t need a pump to help with this. Pumping is, however, really helpful if you need to be apart from your baby any time (see tip below). If not, enjoy this time with your baby and be reassured that even if you plan to pump regularly in future, there’s no need to ‘train’ your body to express milk in the first few weeks. 2: …unless your baby is unable to breastfeed If your baby can’t feed directly from the breast, perhaps because she’s premature or has special needs, or you are separated for any reason, start double pumping breast milk as soon as you can after the birth. Research shows that starting to express within the first few hours (when a healthy newborn would usually have her first breastfeed) helps mums produce a higher volume of milk in the early days and weeks,1,2 giving their babies the best chance of being fed exclusively on mother’s milk. If you’re expecting your baby (or babies) to be born pre-term, in need of intensive care, or to have a condition that might make breastfeeding difficult, prepare yourself. Contact Lorraine at [email protected] or 011 445 3300 for advice about breastfeeding or book a full consultation with her online at www.medela.co.za to help you choose the right equipment to prepare yourself for special feeding conditions. There will probably be a hospital-grade double breast pump at your hospital or birth facility, so ask staff to show you how to use it. It’s important to remove milk from your breasts whenever your baby would normally drink – this means your breasts will still get the message to make milk. Aim for eight to 10 pumping sessions every 24 hours at first, and continue this frequency once your milk comes in. 3: Time it right For your first breast-pumping session, express for at least 15 minutes. Don’t worry if you don’t collect much milk at first – regular extra suction should soon stimulate your breasts to produce more milk. Some mums find pumping one hour after a feed gives the greatest milk yield, others prefer to pump straight after every second feed – try expressing at different times to see when best fits your lifestyle. When you find times that work for you, stick with them so your body gets used to your breast pump use and the extra demand on your milk supply. You may be tempted to extend the time between expressions in a bid to collect larger volumes of milk. However, if you wait until your breasts are full one pumping session won’t drain them very well, so the key is to pump frequently and regularly. 4: Be hygienic Always wash your hands before and after breast pumping, and clean any pump parts that have been in contact with your milk or your baby’s mouth. You will also need to sanitise them after cleaning at least once a day. Be sure to allow all the pieces to completely dry and you can then store the pump set in a clear bag or container until next use. 5: Be prepared To avoid interrupting your breast-pumping session, have everything you need close by before you start. You might want a drink and snack, your phone or TV remote, bottles or milk storage bags for your expressed milk, and a muslin cloth to soak up any drips. Try the Medela Milk Storage Bags for a convenient way to store, carry and warm expressed breast milk. They have a double zip protection and double walls to ensure no leaks, and the heat-sealed seams guarantee no tearing, splitting or cracking. A specially designed breast pumping bra allows you to keep your hands free, making it much easier to operate the controls and do other things while you express. 6: Make yourself comfortable The best position for pumping is one in which you feel at ease. Being relaxed is essential for the release of the hormone oxytocin, which stimulates your let-down reflex. Discomfort and distractions can hamper this process, so choose somewhere private and comfortable, and make sure your arms and back are well supported as you pump. If you’re not using a pumping bra, hold your breast shield between your thumb and index finger, and use your palm and other fingers to support your breast. Hold the breast shield gently against the breast – pressing too hard could compress your breast tissue and obstruct milk flow. Medela’s PersonalFit™ Breast shields play a key role in pumping comfort and efficiency. Shields are available in different sizes and is shaped around you so you can easily adjust the way your breast shield fits to find the most comfortable pumping position. Some mums find deep breathing, soothing music, visualisation techniques, or having their partner massage their back and shoulders, can help them express more milk. 7: Kick-start your let down Most Medela electric and battery-operated breast pumps have 2-Phase Expression technology, which mimics the way your baby feeds (with fast, light sucking followed by slower and stronger sucks), to help trigger your let down. Massaging your breasts before

August 23, 2023

Five Things You Haven’t Thought About Before Your Baby Comes

Here’s a list of five less thought about items before your baby arrives: 1. Gap Cover For many, it may come as a shock to realise that even if you have medical aid, you could be faced with additional medical costs that having a baby can bring to the table. Gap cover provides extra financial protection and closes the gap between what specialists charge and what your medical aid is prepared to pay, ensuring that you can afford the care that you and your family deserve and need. Top Tip: Gap cover providers appoint a 10-month exclusionary waiting period on pregnancy and childbirth, so be sure this is something you include into the planning stages of starting a family. 2. Where there’s a will… Like Life Insurance, it’s one of those things we don’t like to think about, but if you’re going to become a parent, getting a will should be right up there with deciding on baby’s name or which pram to buy. Without one, you would have no say over who should care for your little bundle in the event of your death or what they will inherit from you and who should look after this inheritance until they’re old enough to look after it for themselves. Top Tip: Unless you have multiple assets and numerous issues that require a lawyer, you can draw up a will yourself online within minutes. 3. Save, save, and save some more Welcoming a baby into the world will have a significant impact on your finances. Being proactive when planning will help you to direct, save, and protect your wealth and is essential in preparation for raising and sustaining a child – not to mention the optional luxuries like a night nurse or whether your Mother-in-Law is up for babysitting. Consider borrowing items that the baby will use for short periods of time and look out for car seats and cots that are convertible, meaning you will save on large purchases in the future. Top Tip: Consider opening a tax-free savings account and setting up a monthly debit order to assist you with the discipline and frequency of saving. 4. Baby proof your life As you are heading to the final stretch, the nesting phase will start to kick in. While you will be inspired (again) to clean, organise and rearrange the nursery and house in preparation, don’t overlook the safety around the house. You may think you have time, but in the blink of an eye, that tiny baby is going to be digging under things or doing weird things like chewing on furniture legs so now is the time to cover those sharp corners, clear out/raise any indoor plants, and cover up plug points across the house. Top Tip: Go down to tummy time level to make sure that there are no heavy objects on high cabinets or counters that can topple over once baby starts moving around. 5. Insure your life It can be easy to put off big tasks until tomorrow (which never comes), so if “sign up for life insurance” is toward the bottom of your pre-baby to-do list, now is the time to push that right to the top. Even though the last thing you want to be thinking about is the possibility of your family needing to use your life insurance policy, not being able to provide for your child or leaving your partner with the financial burden of having to do so alone, is a far less pleasant thought. Top Tip: There are many factors to consider when getting life insurance so it’s best to see what kind of cover you need (and don’t need) with an insurer like Sanlam Indie – With Sanlam Indie you can get covered in 10 minutes, so there’s no time like the present. Bonus Tip: Stock up on groceries “Why?” you ask. Short answer… to save your sanity! Stock up on essentials such as coffee (the only thing you will really need), easy oven/frozen dishes, crackers, butter, and milk so you have them on hand, as well as some fresh foods such as fruits and veggies to snack on that will help you power through the chaos of those first whirlwind weeks (don’t forget the chocolate Mom). Top Tip: Bottled water is another important thing to buy in bulk so make sure to buy enough for the first few weeks. “Providing for your child isn’t just about taking care of their current needs; it’s about preparing for their future needs too.” – Edwin Theron, CEO at Sanlam Indie

August 23, 2023

Emotional Health during pregnancy

Expecting a child is a blessing and an incredible experience, whether it’s your first child or not. Often, focus is mainly placed on the joy that comes with expecting, the long nights ahead or how it will change life as you know it. But we usually don’t emphasise on emotional health during pregnancy when in fact, the reality is that pregnancy can become overwhelming and stressful at times, where you might be going through a rather tough time while the best thing in your life is underway. So how do you identify stress, anxiety and depression during your pregnancy, and very importantly, how do you manage or overcome it? Identifying the signs It is important to be self-aware of your emotions and how you feel from day-to-day, maybe having a journal to keep note of your health might be the right place to start and help you notice any changes – even the subtle ones. There are some key things to look out for to ensure you are aware of triggers related to anxiety and depression: Feeling lonely and sad; Crying a lot; Feeling anxious all the time Fatigue and wanting to sleep Avoiding people and not wanting to socialise Getting through the stress and anxiety during your pregnancy Once you have identified the signs – it’s critical that you address them. How you do this is up to you, and there are a number of options that can be considered, from speaking to someone, going to a professional to get properly diagnosed to identifying your stress areas and working on relieving or finding solutions to better manage these. Even just taking time out to focus on yourself – regrouping, reassessing and realising what you need, and want, can go a long way in helping you get through such times. The process of growing a life can be quite daunting as you are focused on whether you are living your best life to ensure your little one’s growth is healthy. You worry about what you eat, drink and if you are doing enough physical activity to ensure that you are also healthy enough to have the best possible delivery process for you and baby. In some cases, the stress can be severe for expecting moms and ways to manage or deal with the stress and anxiety need to be top of mind – emotional health is probably one of the most important. Start small and maybe opt for a more intimate solution – talk to your partner about what is keeping you up at night and your fears of not doing enough for your unborn child. Your partner – or a good friend – can be your confidant and through doing this, you might find out that he is also stressing about – or has been through – similar or different things. Because you are both being open and sharing your feelings you will find comfort in one another and end-up reducing your stress and anxiety levels. You can also look at solutions or putting some things in place that work for both of you. And of course, it’s always good to know you are not alone in your fears. Additionally, keep these tips in mind when you are feeling overwhelmed: Reduce the time you spend on the internet – researching is great, but don’t get to a point where it consumes your entire life and fuels your paranoia. Take time in the day to meditate – quiet time to clear your mind and thoughts might be just what you need to calm yourself and have a level-head when reacting to situations and new information. Resting is vital – whether it’s sleeping early, taking breaks or going on a short vacation, time away from it all will help you with your stress levels. Try to eat healthy – when you eat healthy it translates to you feeling better about yourself and that way you focus less on negative things. Don’t overload yourself with work – don’t commit to stressful amounts of work, know your limits and plan your tasks accordingly to avoid unnecessary stress and anxiety. How to deal with depression while pregnant Depression is an illness that alters your mood, causing you to feel sad and hopeless. In many cases, it is easier for women who have been diagnosed with depression previously and fall pregnant, to ‘relapse’ into depression as pregnancy can be quite overwhelming. In fact, 1 in 10 pregnant women suffer from Ante-natal Depression so it is essential that expectant moms take care of their mental health and know how to identify the cues. Pregnancy is an amazing thing to experience – enjoy the process of growing a life inside of you and make sure you are self and emotionally aware to notice the little, or big, things robbing you of fully experiencing this time in your life. Ensure that you have a solid support system around you – be it your partner, family or friends. Make your pregnancy journey one to remember and embrace every moment of it!

August 17, 2023

Webinar – Vaginal Infections during Pregnancy

Sr Talia discusses different vaginal infections that you can experience during pregnancy

August 11, 2023

Webinar – Gestational Diabetes

In this antenatal class, Sr Talia explains what Gestational Diabetes is, what the symptoms are and how to manage it.

July 28, 2023

Webinar – Caesarean Birth and Recovery

In this webinar, Sr Ingrid Groenewald explains the process of a Caesarean Birth and the recovery process thereafter.

July 21, 2023

Putting together your birth plan

As you enter your third trimester you’ll have probably done a fair bit of research on the birth process (if this is your first) and may have a good idea of what you want before, during and after delivery. There are many options and opinions, from whether or not you want pain medication to how many people you would like supporting you. However, trying to keep track of your choices during labour may be tricky, which is why you’d put together a birth plan. So what exactly is it and how do you put one together? Why should I put together a birth plan? Your birth plan is your choices or preferences before, during and after labour and delivery. While things may not always go according to plan, having your preferences written down and communicated means you, your midwives and doctor have a more mutual understanding. However, if your pregnancy doesn’t go accordingly, you need to be prepared to make adjustments on the day. What should be in my birth plan? Your birth plan is how you’d like everything would go in the best-case scenario. Your birth plan will also have to take into consideration what is available at the hospital or place where you are giving birth. Some birth plans are very basic, just outlining a simple overview, whereas others may be far more detailed and in-depth. The choice is yours. Typically a birth plan will include before, during and after labour and birth preferences. Such as who you want to assist you during birth, whether or not you want any pain medication, you birthing positions, and requests for newborn care, such as skin-to-skin time. How can I learn more about the birth process? If you feel like you need to top up your birthing knowledge before putting together a plan they are a few ways you can go about this. Joining antenatal classes are a good way to learn more and to meet other women in your position. Chatting to friends or family who has been through the birthing process themselves is another good way to see what would work best for you. If you and your partner are having a baby together, keep them in the loop as well. Find out what they expect during labour and you can chat about what you want, and what role you see them playing in the process.

July 17, 2023

Webinar – Post Birth Care for Moms

In today’s webinar, Sr Ingrid reminds Mom’s that’s it’s important to look after yourself post birth. What you can experience post birth and how to deal with the body changes, bleeding and uterus contractions.

July 14, 2023

WHEN AND WHY PREGNANCY ULTRASOUNDS ARE DONE

According to Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality healthcare, pregnancy ultrasounds are an essential part of prenatal care that can provide valuable information about the health and development of the foetus. What is a Pregnancy Ultrasound? From the first glimpse of a tiny heartbeat to the detailed images of a fully-formed little human, ultrasound technology offers a window into pregnancy’s mysterious and wondrous world. Each ultrasound provides expectant parents a unique opportunity to connect with their babies, see their features taking shape, and witness the incredible miracle of life unfolding. How Do Pregnancy Ultrasounds Work? A pregnancy ultrasound is a non-invasive diagnostic test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the developing foetus in the uterus. It allows healthcare professionals to monitor your unborn baby’s growth and development, assess the pregnancy’s health, and detect potential risks or abnormalities. When are Pregnancy Ultrasounds Done? Pregnancy ultrasounds are typically done at different points throughout the pregnancy, depending on the mother’s and the foetus’ medical needs. The most common times for ultrasounds are the following. First Trimester A first-trimester ultrasound is usually done between 6-12 weeks to confirm the pregnancy, determine whether you have more than one baby growing inside you, and assess the foetus’s gestational age. This ultrasound can also detect any abnormalities or potential risks to the pregnancy, such as ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage. Second Trimester A second-trimester ultrasound is usually done between 18-22 weeks of pregnancy to check the development of the foetus, including its size, weight, and organ development, and detect structural abnormalities, such as heart defects or cleft lip/palate. Third Trimester A third-trimester ultrasound is usually done between 28-32 weeks of pregnancy to check the position of the foetus, which is essential for planning delivery, as well as access the placenta and the amount of amniotic fluid surrounding the foetus. In some cases, doctors may do additional ultrasounds in the case of a high-risk pregnancy. Benefits of Pregnancy Ultrasounds Pregnancy ultrasounds offer several benefits for both the mother and the baby, including: Early detection of potential problems Improved prenatal care Increased peace of mind Facilitating communication between the doctor and the expectant parents Detecting multiple pregnancies Providing a record of the pregnancy Good to know: To minimise the risks associated with pregnancy ultrasounds, it is crucial only to have ultrasounds when a healthcare provider recommends and to use qualified healthcare professionals who are trained in ultrasound techniques. Maternity Benefits from Affinity Affinity Health’s Maternity Benefits cover the costs of bringing new life into the world, ensuring that members can enjoy the most precious time without worrying about money. Members can access comprehensive maternity and postpartum benefits, including scans, blood tests, health advice, and guidance via Affinity’s Telehealth Call Centre (simply call 0861 11 00 33). The benefits are subject to policy types and Affinity Health rules, including coverage for hospitalisation, antenatal consultations, growth sonars, and pathology tests. Affinity Health also offers an all-inclusive birthing plan that provides members with access to gynaecologists, sonographers, social workers, psychologists, dieticians, and antenatal classes. With Affinity Health, new parents can rest easy knowing they have access to affordable and accessible healthcare products that protect them when it matters most. For more information on Affinity Health’s Maternity Benefits, click here. About Affinity Health Affinity Health is South Africa’s leading health insurance provider, offering you a range of options, including access to the widest national provider network. We understand the importance of medical insurance that meets your needs, budget, and lifestyle. Our healthcare products are designed to protect you and your family when it matters. We strive to give our clients peace of mind and the highest standard of service. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

July 13, 2023

Retailer Alerts of Dangers of Buying Second-Hand Baby Goods

The second-hand infant goods market in South Africa is rapidly growing, providing much-needed affordable products and financial relief for families across the country who are struggling with the rising cost of living. First-time parents in South Africa spend on average upwards of R100,000 a year to raise a child and nursery set-up costs alone surge to more than R5,000. Despite the financial reprieve of purchasing second hand items, Babies R Us advises caution when purchasing some second-hand baby goods as they may have been recalled or are unsafe. The second-hand infant goods market is estimated to be worth around a billion rand with the primary buyers in South Africa from low-income families. Most purchased second hand items include clothes, toys, furniture, and equipment. According to a report last year by Mercari in the United States, 62 percent of parents purchased second-hand baby and kid products last year, with 58.7 percent of those surveyed doing so to save money. “As a retailer we understand parents are always looking for ways to save money when it comes to purchasing baby items, such as clothes, toys, and furniture,” she adds. “Unfortunately, buying some second-hand baby goods can have serious consequences for your child’s safety and health.” “There are a number of challenges in the second-hand infant goods market,” according to Catherine Jacoby, Marketing Manager at Babies r Us. “The primary being the lack of regulation and meeting safety standards which means it is difficult to ensure the quality and safety of the products.” She explains that South Africa does not have its own set of safety standards in place to regulate many infant related products, specifically those that are produced locally. “It’s not just about safety standards though, there’s a growing global concern of products being sold in the second-hand market that have been recalled for safety reasons.” According to a report by Kids in Danger, a non-profit organisation focused on children’s product safety, last year, the United States had the highest number of children’s product recalls since 2013 impacting everything from baby products to kids’ clothes and toys. Nursery products, items like strollers and baby swings, accounted for over half of the more than 5 million units of children’s products recalled in 2022 alone, the report found. By way of example she adds, the U.S Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is currently calling on Meta and a well-respected manufacturer to recall a product being sold on Facebook Marketplace. The item in question has been linked to the deaths of approximately 100 infants which was recalled in 2019 ten years after it had been on the market. It is estimated that there are still over a million still in circulation having not been returned which are now being sold on sites like Facebook Marketplace. “Every parent wants their baby to be safe, but once the market is flooded with an unsafe product, it’s hard to bring it back,” she says. “Infant products make their way onto second hand sites, they’re in day-cares, at charitable organisations and have even been handed down to family members.” Jacoby notes however, that although it’s totally fine to buy second-hand for some products like clothes, some toys and even furniture, not every product can be safely bought second hand as some of these items are not subjected to the same safety standards as new items. “Experts advise that items like car seats, highchairs, strollers and cots should be bought new to ensure they meet the current safety standards and haven’t been recalled, don’t have any peeling paint, chips, or missing parts. “This ensures that the product is safety checked, you are notified if there are any issues with it and you can be assured of the safety of the product,” she explains. Additionally, Jacoby adds, used baby items may contain bacteria or viruses, which can cause serious illnesses in infants. It is important to clean and inspect them thoroughly before allowing your child to use them. “Our advice to parents is to research the products you are buying second hand, keep an eye out for great deals on new items and if you’re purchasing second hand items ensure you clean and inspect them properly,” she concludes. For more information visit: www.babiesrus.co.za

July 10, 2023

Due soon? What to include in your hospital bag

With your due date fast approaching, this is a very exciting, yet stressful time for most moms to be. Here is a great list of what to pack for the big day! Ideally, you should have your bag ready to go by 36 to 37weeks, apart from the last minute grabs such as your tooth brush and phone charger. Please see our extensive list of the essential items and also items to make you feel more comfortable for mom and baby (and dad, of course!) Baby Car seat – Many hospitals won’t let you leave without one. Please make sure you know how to strap baby properly into the seat and the seat is secure in the car. Safety first! A going home outfit: It’s important to keep baby skin to skin (this means no clothes on baby; only a nappy) for as long as possible, as this promotes growth, bonding and a calming period for you and your baby. When it’s time to go home, pack different outfits in different sizes as you don’t know how big or small baby will be. Aim for an outfit in Newborn sizes, and 0-3 months. Don’t forget a beanie or socks if the weather is cold. Blankets or Muslin wrap to keep baby nice and cosy. Bottles – If you are going into the hospital knowing you are going to bottle feed, take your bottles with. The hospital usually supplies the formula, but if you have a preferred brand, take some along. If breastfeeding doesn’t work for you, don’t stress! The nurses will provide the bottles and formula. Nappies and wipes to keep baby clean and dry. The nurses in the hospital will show you how to change baby if you are a first time mom. Mom Your medical aid information, your pre authorization/ doctors forms, your ID card and all other important documents you may need. Keep this safely in a folder all together to avoid any stress. A robe or dressing gown – This is such a handy item to have to cover up and make you feel comfortable Pyjama’s that button down at the front – If you are breastfeeding it’s a lot easier to undo the buttons than lift your top continuously. Comfortable, soft and loose pants such as lights weight shorts, stretchy leggings or sleep pants are ideal. Maternity pads and disposable breast pads. Nursing bras are also wonderful and offers great support for breastfeeding moms. Slippers or slip in shoes. Your feet may be a little swollen after delivery, so don’t feel bad leaving the hospital in the snuggest and easiest pair of shoes you can slip into. Slipper socks also work great. Cotton underwear, preferably in a dark or black colour. One that fits you well but rises above the uterus. This is good for moms who have a caesarean section and natural birth as it offers support and doesn’t cause pain along the wound site. Nipple cream – If you’re planning on breastfeeding, your nipples will be happy you are being so proactive. Toiletries – You will want to brush your hair and have a shower after baby has arrived. Take your shampoo, face cream, lotion and body wash, as well as your toothbrush and toothpaste. Deodorant, lip balm and extra hair ties are also a great items to have on hand. Cell phone charger – Because your phone will be full of photos of your new addition to your family. Water bottle and snacks. Take a reusable water bottle as its very important to keep hydrated during and post-delivery. Snack on dried fruit and wine gums to keep your sugar up and to give you energy (with permission from your midwife or doctor of course) A magazine or book, your laptop or some music. Labour may sometimes become a little long. It’s good to keep busy. Most hospitals and birthing clinics supply towels, pillows and blankets. If you have a favourite, take yours along to the hospital. A set of clothes to go home in. Your make up bag and straightener or curling iron. While you won’t be focused on looking great during labour, you may want to take some photos after the birth of your little one. Get someone to help you and make you feel good about yourself (and the great work you’ve just done!) Dad/Birthing partner Camera – Take photos! Lots of them. This is a great job for dad to do during birth. It will make them feel a lot more involved. Snacks: Another great job for dad. Full his bag with plenty of snacks and treats that you can both enjoy during your stay. Comfortable clothes – As he may be sitting with you for quite some time, let him pack some tracksuit pants, t shirts, slippers and hoodies. Extra underwear is also a winner if he is staying overnight. Chargers – For phones, laptops and cameras. The longer the wire, the better, as most plug outlets are likely to be far from you. Toiletries – He may want to freshen up during the course of your stay. Many private hospitals offer you a baby bag when you are admitted for delivery. This is a great item and will contain most, if not all baby’s toiletries such as soap and creams. If you forget something, it’s not the end of the world. The nurses may be able to help or someone can go to the shop for you. All baby ideally needs is a clean nappy, milk, and most importantly, you.

July 3, 2023

What to expect from your skin during pregnancy

It’s no secret that a woman’s body goes through a lot of changes during pregnancy. These changes also affect the skin. The hormonal changes a woman goes through during the various stages of pregnancy may disrupt the skin’s delicate balance, resulting in anything from dehydration, to breakouts and hyperpigmentation. Your pre-pregnancy skincare routine will likely not suffice for the new challenges brought on by pregnancy, plus, if you use products containing active ingredients, you may need to reconsider your regime as the ingredients may not be safe for baby. For most women, pregnancy brings on a radiant glow, especially during the first trimester. This is due to an increase in blood flow, fluctuating hormone levels and increased oil production. However, this glow sadly doesn’t always last, and as a woman’s pregnancy journey evolves, she may begin to experience less desirable skincare changes. Some of the most common skin concerns women experience during pregnancy are: Acne Acne is extremely common among pregnant women, especially among those who have a history of acne or those who experience hormonal acne linked to their menstrual cycle. The change in hormones and increased oil production that is responsible for that pregnancy glow may lead to clogged pores and an increase in breakouts. This may range from occasional breakouts, to severe acne. Hyperpigmentation Have you ever heard of the “pregnancy mask”? Also known as melasma, it refers to a condition in which women develop dark marks on their skin during pregnancy. For some women it may be small freckle-like spots, and for others it may be larger, blotchy patches. Melasma is often symmetrical and occurs most commonly on the nose and cheeks (thus where the term “mask of pregnancy” comes from) but may also appear on the upper lip and forehead. Anyone can develop melasma, but it is particularly common among women with darker skins. Melasma occurs when a steep rise in the hormones oestrogen and progesterone stimulates excess melanin production in the body. It usually develops during the second and third trimesters when these hormones are found in higher levels in the body. Melasma may be intensified by sun exposure and one of the most important things you can do to avoid this is to protect your skin against the sun’s rays by applying a broad spectrum SPF product every day. The good news is that melasma is usually temporary and will fade after pregnancy. Skin sensitivity Skin sensitivity is extremely common during pregnancy, largely due to increased hormone levels. Some women may also experience flare-ups of conditions like eczema or dermatitis. It’s important to avoid skincare ingredients that are harsh or drying, and to opt for soothing products free from fragrances and colourants. Dryness and dehydration Hormone changes may cause skin to lose elasticity and moisture, which is why dry skin is a common concern during pregnancy. Replenish moisture by drinking plenty of water and by applying moisturising products containing hydrating and moisturising ingredients like hyaluronic acid. Ingredients to avoid: Some ingredients used in certain skincare products may be harmful to your baby, so it’s important to reconsider your skincare regime as soon as you find out you’re pregnant (or if you’re trying to conceive). Avoid products with high caffeine content, retinol (vitamin A) and salicylic acid, especially during the first trimester. It’s important to avoid any prescription skincare products during pregnancy as these may be harmful to your baby. Professional treatments like Botulinum Toxin injections, filler, laser and certain chemical peels are also not recommended during pregnancy, however, there are plenty of pregnancy-safe facials available. Speak to your doctor or healthcare professional if you’re uncertain as to which products are safe. Ingredients you may use: Hyaluronic acid is considered the best ingredient for dry and dehydrated skins and it is safe to apply during pregnancy. Natural ingredients like tea tree oil, aloe vera, coconut oil etc are also safe. UVB ray blockers like zinc and titanium are safe and are a must to help prevent darkening of hyperpigmentation. Pregnancy-safe skincare Biomedical Emporium’s trusted Maternology range is a scientifically formulated skincare range suitable from pre-conception to Mom-to-be. This range is simplistic, easy and safe to use. The ingredients are rich in vitamins and minerals and covers a wide array of gentle and effective ingredients to treat your skin optimally when trying to conceive as well as during pregnancy. The Maternology range will assist to control skin concerns associated with pregnancy such as pigmentation, acne and severe sensitivity. Try this trusted 3-step daily skincare regime and enjoy healthy skin throughout your pregnancy: Biomedical Emporium Maternology Cleanse (R274.00) Offering deep cleansing and mild exfoliation, this cleanser gently unclogs pores while soothing and calming skin. Biomedical Emporium Maternology Skin Stabilising Serum (R1060) This skin-calming serum helps smoothe fine lines and wrinkles while preventing and diminishing hormonal pigmentation. Biomedical Emporium Maternology Nutri-Hydro Day SPF30 (R1233.00) This is a sunscreen moisturiser suitable for moms-to-be, that prevents photo-ageing, controls the skin’s oil production and reduces redness caused by UV radiation. Biomedical Emporium Maternology Nutri-Hydro Night Therapy (R1200.00) This night cream provides cellular hydration to help combat dryness, rebalances the biodiversity of the skin and restores to skin barrier. Whether you’re loving your pregnancy skin or facing skincare challenges, it’s important to stick to all the skincare basics you knew before you were expecting: maintain a suitable skincare regime twice a day, never go to bed with makeup on, change your pillowcase regularly, disinfect your cellphone regularly, drink lots of water, eat fresh and unprocessed foods, try not to touch your face and remember to apply SPF every day. If in doubt about your skincare, or if you’re struggling to combat any of the concerns you’re faced with, make an appointment with your healthcare practitioner. About Dr Judey Pretorius Dr Judey Pretorius is a highly accomplished Biomedical Scientist and product development specialist with substantial experience in the disciplines of acute, chronic and post-surgical wound healing, regenerative medicine and cell therapy. She holds a Master’s degree in Genetics and Molecular Biology followed

June 23, 2023

What is HELLP?

Pregnancy and the arrival of a new baby is a time of great excitement and joy for expectant parents. However, occasionally there can be complications, which is why pregnant moms should have regular health checks and be aware of any unusual symptoms that may develop. Over the past few years, there has been discussion around a condition known as HELLP Syndrome. It’s a life-threatening complication in pregnancy that can be difficult to diagnose. We reached out to Dr Morgan Mkhatshwa, Head of Operations at Bonitas Medical Fund and his clinical team, to get some answers and advice about HELLP. What is HELLP Syndrome? HELLP (Haemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, Low Platelet count) Syndrome usually develops before the 37th week of pregnancy but can occur shortly after delivery. It’s a serious complication that affects the blood and liver. H = Haemolysis is the breakdown of red blood cells that carry oxygen from lungs to the rest of the body. EL= Elevated liver enzymes. High levels of these chemicals in the blood can be a sign of liver problems. LP = Low platelet count. Platelets are little fragments of blood cells that help with blood clotting. A low platelet count can lead to serious bleeding. What causes HELLP? ‘We don’t know what causes HELLP syndrome,’ says Dr Mkhatshwa, ‘however, you are at risk if you have pre-eclampsia or eclampsia.’ About 1 to 2 in 10 pregnant women (10 to 20 percent) with pre-eclampsia or eclampsia develop HELLP. Pre-eclampsia is caused by high blood pressure. It usually starts after the 20th week of pregnancy or giving birth. Eclampsia is when pre-eclampsia is uncontrolled and causes seizures. Many women are diagnosed with pre-eclampsia before they have HELLP which is a more severe form of pre-eclampsia. What are the symptoms / signs of HELLP? You may feel tired, have pain in the upper right part of the belly, bad headaches and nausea or vomiting. You may also experience swelling, especially of the face and hands and blurry vision. Some women develop HELLP suddenly, without having any signs or symptoms. If you have any signs of HELLP Syndrome, call your medical practitioner, emergency services or go to a hospital emergency room for medical care right away. How is HELLP diagnosed? To find out if you have HELLP Syndrome, your healthcare provider will do a physical exam to check for: Belly pain or soreness, especially in the upper right side An enlarged liver High blood pressure Swelling in your legs Other tests could include: Blood tests to check your liver enzyme levels, lactate dehydrogenase and full blood and platelet count with a peripheral smear Urinalysis to check for protein in the urine A CT scan to see if there’s bleeding in your liver Non-stress test or ultrasound to check your baby’s health. A non-stress test checks your baby’s heart rate, in the womb, to see how the heart rate changes when your baby moves. This test is to make sure your baby’s getting enough oxygen. Ultrasound uses sound waves and a computer screen to show a picture of your baby inside the womb Is HELLP painful? Symptoms of HELLP include serious pain just below the ribs, or the upper right side of the chest area (where the liver is), shoulder pain or pain when breathing. How is HELLP treated? You may be given medication to control your blood pressure and prevent seizures or you may require a blood transfusion to treat anaemia and low platelet levels. Early birth may be necessary because HELLP complications can get worse and harm both you and your baby – either through an induced labour or by C-Section depending on the health assessment results of the baby. How does it impact the baby? Infants born to mothers with HELLP Syndrome may have a variety of birth injuries: Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or severe respiratory distress. Are there long term effects of HELLP? A history of HELLP Syndrome means you are at increased risk for recurrent pre-eclampsia and HELLP Syndrome as well as increased long-term morbidities, particularly depression and chronic hypertension. Can HELLP develop after childbirth? Yes, up to 30% of all patients who develop HELLP Syndrome do so after giving birth, typically within 48 hours. Can I have another baby after HELLP syndrome? If you had HELLP in a previous pregnancy, regardless of the time of onset, you have a greater risk for developing it in future pregnancies. ‘The condition is serious but rare’, stresses Dr Mkhatshwa. ‘Throughout your pregnancy it’s important to understand the changes your body is going through and to discuss any unusual pain or symptoms with your medical practitioner. This will ensure you receive the right help especially if you develop a complication and make the pregnancy and birth the joyous event it should be!’

June 22, 2023

Dealing with anxiety during pregnancy

Pregnancy can be a very happy and exciting time of your life, however, it can also be a time that is very difficult for some expecting moms. This is often made more difficult by the fact that many family and friends expect you to be thrilled, and conflicting emotions are often surrounded by guilt. Your mental health is important, and you shouldn’t expect yourself to snap out of it, or soldier on alone. What is anxiety during pregnancy? It’s natural for an expecting mom to have worries, this is a new and ever-changing part of your life. However, if your anxiety is ever-present, can’t be controlled easily and impact on your daily life it may be time to seek help. Worrying is part of being human, and if you have struggled to conceive or have lost a baby before, it’s very understandable that you may worry about your baby’s health. You may also worry about whether you’ll be a good parent or how your family dynamic will change, and these are all normal worries. But if you find your heart racing, your breathing shallow, obsessively worrying with racing thoughts, feeling restless or struggling to eat or sleep you may have anxiety. Anxiety in pregnancy is fairly normal, and you’re more likely to experience it if you’ve had anxiety in the past, have a high-risk pregnancy or are dealing with huge life stresses. What can I do about it? If you think you may have anxiety during your pregnancy, know that you are not alone or abnormal, as many expecting moms have experienced this. If you’re struggling, the best way forward is not put up with it, but to seek help. Speaking to a psychologist is a good way to start dealing with why you are suffering from anxiety and how you can deal with it. Medication during pregnancy can be tricky but are an option if they’ll benefit you and your babies well being. Staying active, eating healthy and trying to get enough sleep are also ways in which you can help yourself. Talking to others that have gone through pregnancy, or making sure that you rely on your family and partner for support are also ways in which you cope with your feelings and feel less isolated.

June 8, 2023

Your Guide To Hiring a Nanny Through an Agency

Hiring a nanny is a big deal with many factors to consider. A key decision is whether to hire a nanny through an agency or on your own. Not hiring an agency means you’ll have to do all the legwork yourself which can be time-consuming and difficult, especially if you don’t know where to start. Using an agency can be a great way to find a nanny who meets your specific needs. The process of hiring a nanny through an agency can be a little bit daunting; However it’s worth it to have the peace of mind that comes with knowing that you’re hiring a qualified and experienced nanny who has been vetted by an experienced agency. Agencies can also provide support after the nanny is hired, such as addressing any concerns or replacing the nanny if things go wrong. Common Nanny Types Live-in nannies live with the family they work for full time. They are typically available 24/7 and can provide a high level of care for children. Live-out nannies do not live with the family they work for full time. They work a set number of hours per week and are not available overnight. Part-time nannies provide their services occasionally. Night nannies only work overnight to care for children. They can help with night feedings or diaper changes. Special skills nannies have skills or qualifications such as CPR training, first aid training, or experience with children with special needs Choosing the Right Nanny When choosing a nanny, it is important to consider your family’s needs and preferences such as: The age of your children. You may need a nanny with experience caring for infants or toddlers. Your family’s schedule. You may need a nanny who is available to work long hours or who can work nights or weekends. Your budget. The cost of nannies can vary depending on their experience, qualifications, and the number of hours they work. Your family’s values. You may want to choose a nanny who shares your religious beliefs. Interviews The aim of an interview is to ensure that the candidate is a good fit for your family. Interviews can take place telephonically, face-face or as a trial day. Be sure to ask questions about their experience, qualifications, childcare philosophy and availability. Using the Find Your Nanny Agency FindYourNanny is a South African agency that has helped over 3000 families find their dream nannies. The FindYourNanny hiring process is simple and straightforward: Go to www.findyournanny.co.za and select a nanny type and placement package to suit your needs. Complete the online registration form and pay the once off registration fees. FindYourNanny will send you candidate profiles including experience and references. Select candidates to interview. Make an offer to the nanny you want to hire. Pay the placement fee for your chosen package. Onboard your nanny and provide them with information about your family, your expectations, and your house rules. You can contact FindYourNanny on [email protected].

June 6, 2023

Tips for Mums & Dads When Transitioning from 1 Child to 2

Giving birth to your firstborn child sees you worrying about how and what to do right as you find your feet and transition into first-time parent mode. Welcoming your second child into your new family, you will be backed by prior experience to support you in your new role as family ‘multi-tasker’ as you embrace managing the love, care, feeding, soothing, and sleeping of 2 under 2! Welcoming in a second child will be different for every family. Each child is born distinctive from their sibling and your role as mother or father becomes a balancing act which may take time to adjust to. What is true for all second-time parents is that with increased time pressures, there are higher stress levels mothering two children who need round the clock care. Now, instead of taking naps alongside your newborn you will be spending precious time with your toddler. Happily, in the changing world around us, traditional gender roles are evolving as Dads help more around the home and do a lot to ease motherhood for mum’s post the birthing process. Partners may bring their boardroom logic into crises managing a moment with quick thinking and the most direct solution when your toddler and baby are both demanding – at full volume – to be fed! Parenting routines and caring for your kids may come first, and taking time for things other than motherhood at this challenging stage can seem unrealistic but like a diamond is pressured into pure sparkling beauty, it is also an opportunity for you as new mums and dads to set routines, prep meals, and delegate responsibilities with the right tools on hand so you can still carve out space in the day to connect with your partner or spouse, take a restorative five minute walk around the block, or journal in your diary. Philips Avent South Africa share some life tips and home hacks to grounding your new family in a harmonious home routine and setting the perfect scene for both your tiny tykes to grow and thrive: #1 Home Coming & Family introductions: Even kids as young as 18 months to 2 years can feel that things are changing. Prepare your firstborn child for your new arrival into the family only when the time is right and you feel ready to do so. Introduce the idea to your toddler that baby will be someone new to love, and that having a sibling is a privilege and a gift and they can be excited having a new role as an older sibling. Don’t oversell the idea however as you may set them up for rivalry. #2 Home Help Routine: Once your newborn has been introduced home, set up your new routines as soon as possible, by aligning feeding and nap times as much as possible to avoid double duty during the day. Second time Mum Sandy (33) claims her superpowers of adaptation saw her master the art of breastfeeding her newborn and spoon feeding her toddler at the same time. She suggests that for whichever task you avoid or dislike the most, this is the area to adapt and master. “I felt challenged by breastfeeding as I had sore, cracked nipples making it painful, and uncomfortable to feed either of my sons so much so that I would dread feeding times! “I was ecstatic when I discovered Philips Avent nipple shields, they protected my scabbed, sensitive nipples so they could recover and I could breastfeed again. Nipple shields made all the difference, thank goodness.” Breastfeeding your newborn should be your priority, with proper latching and full feeds at correct times. For working mums, you newborn and toddler can still benefit from breastmilk when you master the art of breastmilk pumping to ensure you have milk stored in milk storage bags in the freezer. These can be defrosted for feeds for your newborn by Dad or other caregivers or used for meal top ups of breastmilk for your firstborn toddler. Having the right tools to soothe and protect your breasts and efficiently pump your breastmilk makes it easier to stay comfortable and continue breastfeeding until the minimum 24-month breastfeeding period has been reached. #3 Planning & Prepping Meals In the new era of breast pumping, both the Philips Avent manual and electric breast pumps are quiet, and you can stay positioned upright allowing you to continue pumping and feeding, providing the necessary elixir of breastmilk that your children require during the day. Small and inconspicuous, both the Philips Avent manual breast pump and the Philips Avent electric breast pump will easily fits into your bag when you are on the go. The Philips Avent Natural baby bottle is designed for mums who want to combine breast and bottle feeding, with its soft, breast-shaped teat which encourages a natural latch and mimics the feel of a breast, making the switch between breast and bottle as smooth as possible for you and your baby and other parents and caregivers to step in for supported feeds. The spiral design of the teat and petals ensure it naturally flexes and doesn’t collapse when your little one is feeding, so your baby can enjoy an uninterrupted feed. More importantly the anti-colic valve in the Philips Avent Natural baby bottle is designed to reduce colic and discomfort by venting air into the bottle and away from your baby’s tummy for 60% less fussing at night. Generally, after the first month, babies gain an average of 500g to 1 kilogram per month within the first six months. Breast milk is the ideal first food, but beyond this stage, both milk and solid foods are needed to help your baby grow and continue to gain around 2 kilograms per month. Many babies are happy to wait until around six months to begin weaning and at this age can learn the skills needed for eating solid food very quickly especially if there is an older brother or sister to mimic at feeding times. However, babies

June 2, 2023

WHEN AND HOW TO EXERCISE POST CAESAREAN

If you are wondering what life post caesarean surgery is going to be like, this is the blog for you. We will be looking at how and when you will be able to start exercising again after your op, and what exercises may actually aid your recovery. Read on below now for these tips. Pelvic Floor (Or Kegel) Exercises You may have been practicing Kegel exercises before the birth of your child. This is the first type of exercise you will be able to, and should do post caesarean. This will help you with any incontinence you may experience, as well as help you re-strengthen your pelvic floor. Once your catheter has been removed, you will be able to start up on these exercises once more. Abdominal Exercises You will also need to re-strengthen your abdominal muscles. These will help you protect your spine during recovery and keep your core strong. Here is a recommended ab exercise for during recovery: Lie on your side with a slight bend in the knee Relax your abdominal muscles and begin to inhale and exhale gently While exhaling, try to pull in your abdomen muscles ever so gently Whilst doing this, gently squeeze your pelvic floor as well Hold this pose for ten seconds Repeat this process ten times When To Start Physical Exercise Post Caesarean If you want to begin your physical work out again, you will need to wait between 6-8 weeks post caesarean as a general rule of thumb. Begin with light, low-impact exercises such as swimming, Pilates or yoga. Wait until 12 weeks to begin more high impact workouts such as running or resistance training. However, remember to always consult with your doctor before beginning any form (low or high intensity) training post your caesarean operation.

May 25, 2023

YOUR GUIDE TO A HEALTHY PREGNANCY

Looking after your health is important, but even more so when you are an expectant mom. There are several steps you can take to ensure you have a healthy pregnancy and give your little one the best possible start in life, here are a few tips brought to you by Bonitas Medical Fund. Eating right is vital Eating healthily during pregnancy will help your baby to develop properly. There’s no need to go on a special diet but, it is important to eat a variety of foods every day to get the right balance of nutrients that you and your baby need. Eating healthily often means just changing the the foods you eat so that your diet is varied. Staying active is a must Regular exercise will help you control your weight, improve circulation, boost your mood and help you sleep better. Pilates, yoga, swimming and walking are all great activities for pregnant women. Aim for 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. Listen to your body though and don’t overdo it. Be sure to check with your doctor first, before starting any exercise programme. Approach chores with caution Chores like scrubbing the bathroom or cleaning up after pets can become risky when you are pregnant. Exposure to toxic chemicals, lifting heavy objects or coming into contact with bacteria can be harmful. So, avoid heavy lifting, climbing on ladders, changing the kitty litter, using harsh chemicals and standing for long periods of time. Take care of your feet Weight gain during pregnancy throws off your centre of gravity, which puts extra pressure on your feet. This can cause painful flattening out of the feet. You may retain fluids too, which can make your feet and ankles swell. To prevent this, wear comfy shoes with good support. Many pregnant moms find they need a larger shoe size even after they give birth, so go a size up if you need to. Benefits for you and your baby Bonitas offers a wide range of maternity benefits as well as benefits for newborns and babies. These are paid for from Risk so they are in addition to your savings and day-to-day benefits. Some are: Maternity benefits Having children is expensive. That’s why Bonitas pays for your maternity benefits in addition to your savings and day-to-day benefits so you can focus on the things that really matter. Contact The Bonitas Maternity Programme today to see all the benefits when you click here. Bonitas is also in the process of establishing a comprehensive mother and baby support programme which will offer pregnant moms a range of benefits including: 24/7 pregnancy care helpline Dedicated Bonitas care advisors Pregnancy education SMSs and emails Online pregnancy education Bonitas pregnancy events with expert speakers on prenatal and postnatal care The full programme has bee available since March 2020 and will ensure there is sufficient support for moms throughout the pregnancy journey. Education and information will be provided to allow for healthier pregnancies which in turn could support higher incidences of natural birth. But there will also be management and support for pregnancy complications including miscarriage and gestational diabetes. In addition, your stay in hospital when your baby arrives will also be covered. Please make sure you pre-authorise your hospital stay after your 24th week of pregnancy. Please note: Your maternity benefits will depend on the medical aid option you have selected. Newborn hearing screening Significant hearing loss is the most common disorder at birth which is why screening all newborns for hearing loss is internationally recommended. We cover two electrophysiological techniques, auditory brainstem responses (ABR) and optoacoustic emissions (OAE) for all babies under 8 weeks old, in or out-of-hospital allowing you to ensure your baby’s hearing is intact or intervene early if necessary. Congenital hypothyroidism screening Cover for TSH tests (to screen for congenital hypothyroidism) is available on all options for children under a month old. Help is just a call away with BabyLine BabyLine (0860 999 121) is the first dedicated children’s health advice line in South Africa. It is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The service is run by paediatric-trained nurses who assist with any queries related to your little one’s health and wellness. The benefit is available to all Bonitas members and is for children under 3 years, it offers: Home care advice Clinic/primary care/GP referral for the same day Clinic/primary care/GP referral for the following day After-hours care within the next six hours Immediate referral to the E

May 22, 2023

You’re Pregnant! Now what? What to expect when you are expecting and knowing your rights as a new Mom

Every second four babies are born somewhere in the world. Most births are usually preceded by the most popular question: Is it a boy or a girl? In South Africa, 1 million births took place in 2021 with the most popular choice of birth names being Lethabo and Melokuhle according to Statistics South Africa, both of which represent positive connotations of love and acceptance. And, did you know that statistically, slightly more boys are born than girls with the World Health Organisation stating that around 105 boys are born per 100 girls. Whether you choose to find out the sex of your foetus at your 20-week ultrasound appointment and throw a celebratory baby naming ceremony with friends and family or; you prefer to be surprised on the day of your delivery, it will undoubtedly be a watershed moment. No one forgets the day they turned into a bona fide parent responsible for building and strengthening the mother-father-and-child bond through everyday love and caring. As a parent, you will want what is best for your baby from day one. With 30 years of clinical experience in baby feeding, Philips Avent has been designing and manufacturing solutions to meet your needs developed through extensive research, clinical trials and, even more importantly by listening to parents like you. While developing innovations based on a deep understanding of mom and baby physiology, we are here to support you every step of the way. Preparing for Birth Not everyone is gifted with the opportunity to fall pregnant and deliver a child into the world. When you do fall pregnant however you also realise that your growing belly doesn’t come with a manual for life. Rather, you are the manual, and it is your responsibility to look after yourself first and then your child in the best conceivable way. It is your turn now to step up to being the ‘Mom know best’ in your life, while gathering information along your journey, finding support, asking questions and using the best tools for loving, nurturing, nourishing and growing that new life inside of you which carries fifty percent of its DNA from Mom and the other half from Dad. Self-care When you test positive for a baby, your physical body immediately gets to work and you will notice changes such as weight gain, backache, and fluid retention as the pressure of your growing womb affects the blood flow in your legs. Gestation is not only a time for your baby to grow and develop but for you to become more conscious and attentive to the needs of you and your body. Self-care means resting when you are tired, cutting out junk foods and food cravings, walking or stretching daily to strengthen your body in preparation for the birth and preparing your home nest to receive a new member who will fit into your everyday routines as seamlessly as possible. Trimester Checklists The first trimester is the most important period of your baby’s development. This is when your baby’s structure and organs develop. Most miscarriages and birth defects occur during this uncertain period and your body also undergoes major changes. First Trimester Essentials: Week 1 – 13: Start taking a prenatal vitamin and avoid unsafe foods such as raw eggs, deli meat and raw fish. Stop smoking, drinking alcohol and reduce your caffeine intake. Stay hydrated and try to fit in at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week. Settle on a gynaecologist, midwife, or other prenatal care provider Check your medical aid insurance to see if it covers prenatal care and delivery Schedule your first prenatal appointment usually around the 8-week mark Talk to your doctor or midwife about prenatal testing to check for genetic defects and HIV. Check your finances, the costs of your baby and how maternity leave will impact you. Start a budget and a savings plan. Discuss your parenting ideas with your partner and agree on how you want to raise your child and research parenting and prenatal classes you can sign up for together. You Have a Baby! Now What? Following the birth, the first ten days with your newborn at home will prove to be as big a learning curve as it was on initially hearing you were pregnant. Don’t panic, this is where your instincts get to kick in and perform at their best. If you don’t have a mom, sister, or doula to support you, here are a few practical tips for your baby’s healthy development: Do as much skin to skin contact as possible. Your baby loves feeling, hearing, and smelling your presence which gives them a sense of protection and calm. Hug, touch, talk and stroke your child as much as possible. Within only a few days, your newborn can start smiling back when people smile at them. Breastmilk wins every time. Mother’s milk is pure elixir to babies helping them to grow properly and develop their immune systems. Breast pumping is an easy and practical method for modern mums to bring in your milk and ensure you supply enough breast milk at every feed and for the two-year mandated breastfeeding period while juggling life and a career. Embrace every moment and love every challenge with the Philips Avent Electric Breast pump which offers a new era in expressing with a perfect balance of suction and nipple stimulation inspired by the natural way baby’s drink. Communicate with your new-born. Talk to your child in soft tones and baby talk. You will notice they can hear and will soon start to memorise and copy your words. Understand why they are crying. A newborn baby is unable to look after itself and relies on you to attend to its needs. A baby will cry when hungry, if it has a soiled nappy, is tired, needs a cuddle, has wind, is too hot or cold, or is bored or overstimulated. TIP: Babies suckle to calm themselves. For babies with a strong need to

May 10, 2023

YOGA AND PILATES FOR PREGNANT MOMS

Staying active during your pregnancy is another important way of staying healthy. Not only is exercise good for you physically, but it helps relieve stress, improve sleep and boost your mood. However, being pregnant, especially later on in your pregnancy, means that you’ll need to consider what exercise you’re doing. Contact and high-risk sports are a no-no, but if you are looking for a way to stay fit, prenatal yoga and pilates could be your answer. Why yoga and pilates? Prenatal yoga and pilates can help you strengthen your body, stop excess weight gain and help prepare your body for childbirth. Both are low impact and can be adjusted to suit you and your growing baby. During your pregnancy, you may experience backache, aching legs and abdominal pain. Providing nothing serious is wrong, yoga and pilates can help alleviate pain through strengthening your body. Prenatal yoga and pilates classes are specifically tailored to expecting moms, so should be completely safe unless you are recommended otherwise. Getting ready for birth Not only can these practices help reduce stress and anxiety, but they can also help you during childbirth. The combo of stretching and strengthening your body should mean that your body is more equipped to deal with the stress of labour and birth. Strong core and pelvic will help support your spine and help you during birth. Joining prenatal yoga and pilates classes will help you connect with other expecting moms and, a professional can guide you through which poses are best for you throughout your pregnancy. Not only can yoga help you physically, but the breathing techniques you’ve learnt can help calm and focus you during labour. Is there anything I should be cautious of or avoid? Although good for you, there are still certain yoga and pilates poses and exercises that you should avoid during your pregnancy. If you are new to yoga and pilates, most studios offer prenatal classes for beginners, and, if you are practising already you can probably continue with most of your practice, just let your instructor know you’re expecting – they can help you modify your routine. Things to be cautious of are hot yoga, full inversions (poses on your head), deep twists and exercises that cause you to crunch your abdominal cavity. Your body is in constant flux as your baby develops, meaning some days you’ll feel energised whereas otherwise will leave you feeling drained. Because of this, it’s important that you are aware of how your body is feeling while practising. If you notice anything unusual or painful it’s best to chat with your doctor.

May 8, 2023

Medela Nursing Wear: Comfortable and Convenient for Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural experience. It is a special time to feel close to your baby. Medela nursing bras are designed and tailored to your needs. These nursing bras don’t just look good, they fit perfectly to the body and provide gentle support. 3-In-1 Nursing and Pumping Bra (From R 1999.99) Pump and breastfeed in complete comfort with the Medela nursing and pumping bra. With a 3-in-1 versatile design, it’s lightweight, ultra-breathable, and features Adaptive Stretch™ for a perfect fit and ultimate comfort. This 1-step, hands-free pumping bra makes pumping easy. Its convenient design fits most breast shields and in-bra breastpumps. This 3-In-1 nursing and pumping bra is perfect for all-day wear and designed for In-Bra Pumping, Electric Pumping, and Nursing with comfort and ease even while pumping. Features: Hands-Free Pumping: Pair with a Medela Electric Breast Pump for a 1-Step hands-free pumping journey or use with an in-bra pump for a discreet, comfortable pumping experience. Full Drop-Down Cups: When nursing, enjoy maximum skin-to-skin contact to encourage bonding with your baby. Soft Touch Adaptive Stretch: Made with Adaptive Stretch material to grow with your changing body. Perfect For All-Day Comfort: With its strap-style top, the bra is designed for a snug and tight feel, providing medium to high support to comfortably carry out daily tasks. Compatibility: Medela 3-In-1 is designed to work with Medela Electric Breast Pumps, wearable pumps, in-bra, and other electric pump brands. Hands-Free Pumping Bustier (From R 1299.99) The Medela Hands-free™ Pumping Bustier makes pumping easy and convenient. It has a strapless design with an easy-fit front zip and hook, so it is quick and easy to put on. Bottles can be slid in from the front in one easy step. With the Medela Hands-free Pumping Bustier, you can express breast milk with all Medela double electric breast pumps. Features: Hands-Free Pumping: Made for easy expression, Medela Pumping Bustier gives the freedom and flexibility to allow for a completely hands-free experience, leaving you free to simply relax or multitask comfortably. Adaptive Stretch: With a strapless tube top design, the Hands-Free Pumping Bustier is designed to have a snug and tight feel which will adapt to the unique body shape over time. Soft Touch Material: For comfort through the pumping journey while reducing breast compression allowing for maximum milk flow. Pump More Discreetly: Works perfectly with Medela breast shields and provides full nipple coverage, so you can. Compatibility: Medela’s Hands-Free Pumping Bra is designed to work perfectly with Medela Electric Breast Pumps: Pump in Style with Maxflow, Swing Maxi, Freestyle Flex, Sonata, and Symphony. But is also compatible with most other breast pumps on the market. Medela Family App The Medela Family app is your personal helper. With the app, you can easily track important stats for pregnancy, baby, and breastfeeding and it gives you tips and support to help you meet your goals. Features of the Medela Family App: Knowledge Centre – A library of expert-written educational articles to help you prepare and learn along your journey. Personal helper – Our smart assistant helps you troubleshoot technical problems and get answers to frequently asked questions. Easy to use – The Medela Family app was designed from scratch with high usability standards including a night mode for easier reading in dim lighting. Virtual milk storage – With this smart milk inventory system you will always know how much milk you have in your stash. Hands-free voice control – Use your voice to track a session! Especially handy when changing a dirty diaper. Baby tracking – The following sessions can be tracked for one or more babies: breastfeeding, pumping, sleep, bottle feeding, diaper changes, weight, and length. Pregnancy tracking – With Medela Family you can track the duration, frequency, and pain intensity of contractions. The Medela Family is available on the App Store, Google Play, and AppGallery. All Medela products are available from Dis-Chem, Baby City, and other major retailers. Follow Medela on Instagram @Medela_sa and Facebook @MedelaSA.

May 5, 2023

New in SA – Vital Baby Launches Exciting New Products – from Sterilising to Weaning

Innovative new products from Vital Baby help you with hygiene and nourishment for your little one from birth through weaning and well into toddlerhood. Vital Baby NOURISH Prep & wean – R3,799.00 Steam cook and blend healthy homemade meals quickly for your little one with our NOURISH prep & wean™. Simple and easy to use, the prep & wean™ has three distinct functions and a large 900ml jug capacity to help you through every step of weaning – sterilising, steaming, and blending. Steam mode – cook food efficiently and effortlessly, while also preserving as many vitamins and nutrients as possible. The two-tier design gives you the option to cook two separate foods at the same time – great for steaming different foods that have varying cooking times. Blend mode – Blades that never lose their sharpness can blend all types of food! The five different blending settings allow you to create a range of textures to suit all stages of weaning – from first tastes to big kid meals and beyond. Effortlessly creating smooth purees for early weaning, then chunky textures as your baby develops, while also allowing you to incorporate the nutrients-filled residual water from steaming. Sterilising mode – The effective release of steam means that the prep & wean™ can also be used as a super-quick steriliser for a single bottle, or accessories, proven to kill 99.9% of bacteria in just 8 minutes! Vital Baby HYGIENE Advanced pro UV sterilizer & dryer – R4,699.00 Through innovation and advances in technology, Vital Baby’s HYGIENE Advanced Pro UV Sterilizer & Dryer is here, and it’s better than ever. Using the latest UV LED technology, Vital Baby’s HYGIENE Advanced Pro UV Sterilizer & Dryer kills 99.99% of bacteria and viruses in just 7 minutes. Sterilise what we hear you ask? About anything that will fit. The Advanced Pro UV is efficient and versatile and, as there’s no need for water, chemicals, or heat, is suitable for use with a wide range of items – from bottles, teats, soothers, toys and breast pumps to small accessories, mobile phones, keys, cosmetic brushes and more… Modes Complete with four modes for ultimate convenience, the advanced pro UV fits around you: Sterilise mode – advanced, energy efficient UV LED’s and expertly designed diamond efficiency interior gives a super-fast sterilising time of 7 minutes. Dry mode – patented drying system and HEPA G4 filter dries contents in just 17 minutes, while also trapping dust, mould, bacteria, and virus particles as small as PM2.5 (that’s about 3% of the diameter of a human hair!). Auto mode – Starting with a drying cycle before automatically performing a sterilising cycle, this mode gives you sterile and dry contents, ready to use in just 29 minutes. Store mode – Store mode completes a full 29-minute sterilising and drying cycle, before periodically activating the bacteria killing UV LEDs for 1 minute, every hour, for up to 3 days. UV sterilisation is proven to be an effective way to kill 99.99% of bacteria, mould and viruses without the fuss of conventional sterilisers that use chemicals, water or heat. It’s important to sterilise baby’s feeding equipment as it helps to protect your baby’s developing immune system from potentially harmful bugs and bacteria. To sterilise effectively, you should make sure that all bottles, teats, and accessories are disassembled and washed thoroughly with warm soapy water and rinsed clean before sterilising. You can leave the sterilised contents inside the steriliser for 24 hours, but make sure the lid is kept closed for the duration. Ensure you re-assemble items with clean hands or sterilised tongs if you can and always on a clean surface too. Vital Baby HYGIENE Pro Steam Sterilizer – R3,299.00 Protect your baby’s developing immune system by safely killing 99.9% of bacteria, viruses, and mould with the Vital Baby HYGIENE pro steam sterilizer. Its tall and sleek design means it doesn’t take up workspace in the kitchen, without compromising sterilizer capacity. Its versatile design gives you the option to sterilise using all tiers, or just the top tier for smaller items and what’s more, when the HYGIENE pro steam sterilizer’s lid is kept closed after sterilising, the contents remain sterile for up to 24 hours. Complete with three modes for ultimate convenience, the pro steam steriliser & dryer fits around you; Sterilise mode – using only steam, this steriliser is proven to safely kill 99.9% of bacteria in just 6 minutes. Drying mode – the less time spent hand drying bottles and accessories, the better! For use straight after sterilising, the built-in, powerful dryer ensures the contents are dry and ready for use in just 40 minutes. Auto mode – the best of both worlds for ultimate convenience! Starting with a drying cycle before automatically performing a sterilising cycle, this mode gives you sterile and dry contents in just 46 minutes. 100% chemical free sterilisation, simply add water and select the mode on the easy-to-use LCD display, then enjoy some precious time with your little one! Compatible with any bottles, teats, breast pump accessories, teethers, soothers and more. These and other Vital Baby products are available at www.vitalbabyshop.co.za

May 3, 2023

Preterm Labour

Although most moms pregnancies last 40 weeks (your baby will have spent 38 weeks in your uterus) sometimes birth can begin prematurely. If you go into labour anytime between week 20 and 37 is known as preterm labour. A baby delivered before this is known as miscarrige, and anytime after week 37 is considered normal. If you suspect you’re going into labour early it’s critical that you contact your doctor as quickly as possible so that they can assist you. Ideally your baby needs to stay in your uterus until full term, but even if your baby is premature (sometimes called a preemie) they can still go on to lead a healthy life. Here are the signs of preterm labour, how you can try prevent it and what to do if you think that your baby might be coming early. How to decrease your risk of preterm labour There are some things that increase your risk of going into premature labour – however, that being said, just because your risk factors are low, you aren’t guaranteed not to go into preterm labour. Firstly, throughout your pregnancy staying healthy is critical. Smoking, drinking and recreational drug use are all activities that increase your risk of preterm labour (amongst other things). Good nutrition and prenatal care is a key aspect of a healthy pregnancy and baby. Other risk factors include, having more than one baby in your uterus, short intervals between pregnancies and having had another baby preterm. There are certain infections and chronic conditions that can also contribute to preterm labour. Preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, depression, chronic kidney or heart disease or infections can all lead to preterm labour and birth. Signs and symptoms that you may be experiencing preterm labour Controlling what you can, keeping a healthy pregnancy lifestyle and maintaining good prenatal care are not guarantees for your baby’s timely arrival. However, spotting preterm labour early means that you’ll be able to receive treatment as quickly as possible. Backache and pressure in your lower belly (almost as if your baby is pushing down) as well as bell cramps and contractions are all signs of premature labour. These contractions are different to Braxton Hicks contractions as they are regular. Other signs include a change in your vaginal discharge to watery or bloody, or even experiencing a gush of fluid from your vagina. What happens if I go into preterm labour? If you suspect preterm labour let your doctor know right away. Once you have alerted your doctor they’ll give you medication to stop the birth or slow down your labour. How close you are to your due date will impact on how they decide to treat you. You may be given medication to slow or stop your contractions, as well as medication that will help your babies lungs mature and grow, as if they are born preterm they may not work on their own. If your baby is born preterm it is likely they’ll need special care from the hospital as they are at higher risk of health complications. However, even if your baby is preemie they can still go on to live a healthy life.

May 2, 2023

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