Sleepless nights are often associated with the new-born baby phase, but the reality is that often, a mommy lacks proper sleep even before baby has arrived. Some people laughingly say that this uncomfortable third trimester prepares parents for the lack of sleep that parents will experience once baby arrives.
This beautiful range by Natralogic is a must buy for pregnant ladies. There are so many products on the market that it sometimes makes it hard for moms-to-be to select the very best. Natralogic is a a range worth purchasing. We sent our range to one of our readers and she really enjoyed using the products. The product range comprises of the following: Tummy Cremè Exfoliating Cremè Toning Massage Gel Cooling Leg Gel Nipple Cream The Tummy Cremè helps with the elasticity of the skin using natural ingredients leaving your skin feeling great after use. On their website they recommend that you use this in conjunction with the Exfoliating Cremè and we can see why. Our pregnant mommy loved not only feeling pampered but how her skin felt afterward especially when using the Toning Massage Gel. Certainly the best part of these products is that you can use them while your are pregnant and after to keep your skin looking great! Katherine really enjoyed the Cooling Leg Gel. As they were travelling this last stretch of her pregnancy the heat was really taking its toll on her legs. This really helped her soothe her legs and she was happy that she remembered to pack it in. She also reported that the gel is non-sticky and that she loved that their were all natural ingredients ensuring that not only was she safe but that no harmful ingredients or toxins would come into contact with her unborn baby. The Nipple Cream noted on their website that it is 100% ultra pure medical grade lanolin. Katherine has already been using this during her pregnancy and already felt a difference in just a few applications. She did not want to use it all because she really is looking forward to seeing the true effect when she starts breastfeeding in a month’s time. Not only is every care taken to ensure that these products are effective but their ethos is one to be admired. Their ingredients are certified by Beauty without Cruelty and only tested on themselves and never on animals. Their products are accredited by the International Vegan Society as well. The only exception they note is the Natralogic Nipple Cremè which contains lanolin however notes that no harm comes to the sheep during extractions (lanolin is a product derived from the fleece of sheep) Be sure to visit www.natralogic.co.za to read more about this range and to order online!
Around 9 000 babies are born to Bonitas Medical Fund members annually and while most of these little members are welcomed into the world without any hitches, about 20% of pregnant moms experience complications during childbirth. Many experience challenges of some kind during their pregnancy, or immediately after the birth of their child. For this reason, the Fund is making maternity education and support a focus for 2020. The aim is to offer pregnant members all the support and guidance they need to improve their health and that of their baby. It is about making the pre- and post- birth period as stress-free and healthy as possible.
With World Breastfeeding Week recently celebrated and the focus placed on the importance of breastfeeding to improve the health of babies, it is an ideal time to consider the risks of alcohol for pregnant and/or breastfeeding mothers – and the delicious alternative beverage options that are now available in the market. Today, one of the major risks to a pregnant or breastfeeding woman is alcohol consumption. While many women do limit their intake during pregnancy and breastfeeding, they may not be doing enough. The health risks associated with consuming alcohol during pregnancy, breastfeeding and even conception mean that there are now an increasing variety of alcohol-free beverages for moms and moms-to-be in order to have safer (and healthier) choices. In fact, it turns out that 0.0% non-alcoholic malt beverages can even boost breastmilk supply by stimulating prolactin levels. It also has some other surprising – and quite remarkable – health benefits… Without going into the technical details, the barley malt contains lactogenic beta-glucan. This not only makes it highly nutritious, but when enjoyed 90 minutes prior to breastfeeding, can see an increase in the mom’s milk production. This makes sense, considering that barley is a starchy food that contains complex carbohydrates. The soluble fibre (essentially slowing glucose absorption) contained in the barley can lower cholesterol and even reduce the risk of heart disease. Malt drinks are well known to be both wholesome and highly nutritious, while providing some protein, sugar, essential minerals and levels of vitamins A and B vitamins. It also provides the all-important folic acid that is beneficial during both pregnancy and breastfeeding. The Risks of Alcohol During Pregnancy Here’s how it works, in a nutshell. Alcohol in the mother’s blood passes to the baby through the umbilical cord. This can result in miscarriages, stillbirth, or a range of disabilities that are classified under the term foetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD). Sadly, South Africa has the highest prevalence of these disorders than anywhere else in the world with 111.1 instances per 1 000 children (the global average is 7.7). The Consumption of Alcohol During Breastfeeding & Alternative Options Conventional wisdom used to state that drinking a beer before nursing could help with the milk ejection reflex. However, more recent studies have shown that infants who are fed milk by mothers who have consumed alcohol tend to take in less milk than those who did not. Startlingly, consuming alcohol while breastfeeding can lead to a multitude of ill effects: disturbed sleep cycles, extreme drowsiness, weakness, decreased growth in the infant, the possibility of decreased milk-ejection reflex and milk quality in the mother, not to mention the impairment of a mother’s natural reflexes that are needed in taking proper care of her child! On the other hand, consuming a non-alcoholic beverage or two means that you get all the benefits without any of the disadvantages – whether pregnant or breastfeeding. Moreover, modern 0.0% non-alcoholic beverage now has the same taste, while being devoid of the negative health side-effects associated with alcohol. Additional benefits include the hangover-free lifestyle and reduced calorie consumption. A win for South African mothers, and mothers all around the world! To celebrate women as everyday heroes, Bavaria threw a surprise baby shower for Itumeleng Nyathi, a Zimbabwean woman who left her country to pursue a brighter future in South Africa. In doing so, she had to walk away from her family and existing support systems. While in South Africa, Itumeleng met her husband Larry and they are now expecting their first child together, a baby girl arriving in September. Itumeleng received a bumper supply of gifts at the event, courtesy of Bavaria and a Johannesburg Mom’s Group – who banded together to provide her with a stroller, car seat, cot, feeding chair, baby bath, bouncer, booster seat, and more. An extra special surprise awaited Itumeleng as she was reunited with her mother, whom she hadn’t seen in several years. This heart-warming story has been turned into a special, shareable video: Please click here to watch By Oliver Wills, Marketing Manager at Bavaria
Natralogic is South Africa’s first all-natural and safety approved range of skincare products designed for use during pregnancy. Now, looking and feeling good doesn’t have to mean exposing your baby to toxic chemicals! Clinically and Dermatologically certified, our products are formulated to maximize effectiveness against common pregnancy skincare concerns such as stretch marks, cellulite, swollen legs/feet and nipple pain from breastfeeding. With Natralogic skincare, you can give your body the best care and address all your pregnancy skincare concerns without worrying about the effects on your unborn baby.
Keeping your body at optimum levels during and after pregnancy can be tough, especially if you are planning on breastfeeding. With everyone having all the advice in the world on how and what you should be doing, it really is important for your baby that you receive essential vitamins and minerals from a brand you can trust. Mom2B has all the answers. Parenting Hub was given Mom2B’s range of Pregnancy Shakes to review. We always have a preggie mom on hand to try new products and Gemma was most excited to take on the challenge. On new mom Jackie, a breast feeding mom was also keen to jump in and try something new! Gemma reported that shortly after starting the shakes that she could feel a difference in her energy levels. With this being a tough pregnancy for her, she was so happy to not feel tired all the time. She reported that the flavours were amazing and not too sweet which is so important. Jackie who is currently breastfeeding said that she found Mom2B’s shakes so quick and easy and a really nice way to supplement her diet. She also felt that her energy levels were up and that she could cope much better with the stress that comes with looking after a newborn. These Mom2B Shakes come in three tasty flavours, chocolate, vanilla and strawberry. They’re packed with vitamins B5, B6, B12, B1, B2, B3, C, D and E as well as biotin, folic acid, zinc, iodine, iron and magnesium. They’re also low in fat, high in fibre and a great source of calcium and phosphorus – all the necessary supplements required during pregnancy. Produced locally by Nativa (Pty) Ltd since April 1999, this wide range of alternative and complementary health products can be obtained through visiting www.mom2b.co.za. Nativa report that feedback from consumers has been excellent, indicating that Nativa products have improved the quality of their lives. Nativa’s values are: Integrity, honesty, excellence, courage and collaboration and through the excellent interaction that Parenting Hub and our clients have experienced, it is very evident that Nativa live up to these values. Parenting Hub highly recommends Mom2B’s range of products.
Life doesn’t stop when you are pregnant. Most of us are still busy with a full day’s work plus the usual cleaning, washing, shopping and cooking chores while sometimes caring for older children as well.
Being a mom can be quite exciting. After all, you’re bringing new life into the world. However, this can also be a stressful time, with a whole bunch of emotions, the potential for strained relationships, and it can take a toll on you. But, here are some tips to stay sane as an expecting mom, and to help you have the happiest pregnancy possible.
Becoming pregnant is one of the greatest gifts a woman could ever experience. Yes, you may have to give up a few things like sushi, your addiction to caramel macchiatos, and your occasional dirty martini, but once you hold that bundle of joy, you realize those small sacrifices are nothing in comparison to the life you just brought into the world. Speaking of sacrifices, there are also sacrifices pregnant women make that they don’t necessarily have to. One of those unnecessary sacrifices that women tend to make is giving up traveling. Air traveling while pregnant is one of the biggest misconceptions in the pregnancy world. The American Pregnancy Association statesthat as long as you are not having any complications or concerns with your pregnancy, it’s perfectly safe for women to travel during their pregnancy. Now, in knowing the pain and discomforts that come with pregnancy, it’s understandable for pregnant women to be wary about traveling. One of the worst things that could happen is to be thousands of feet in the air and experience morning sickness! What You Need to Know The symptoms and discomforts that come with pregnancy can be very mild up to unbearable at times but they aren’t necessarily factors that can prevent you from traveling (unless you’re having complications in your pregnancy). Here are some tips to follow to travel safely and comfortably while pregnant. Air Travel: Pick an Aisle Seat When it comes to air traveling, an aisle seat would be ideal for a pregnant woman. The aisle seat allows you quicker and easier access to the restroom and it also gives you more room to stretch your legs out. [sc name=”Google Ad In Article Ad”] Air Travel: Consider Wearing the Oh-So-Gorgeous Compression Socks Majority of the time, compression socks have been worn by older adults to help with blood flow, and on planes, blood clots are a high risk for not only pregnant women but for people in general, especially those with circulation problems. They’re not the most fashionable type of socks but they are helpful! Some doctors even recommend pregnant women to get up ever so often to do a small walk of the aisle to aid in circulation to the legs and feet. This is another added perk of why that aisle seat will come in handy. ***Big Group Road Trip Consideration: Comfort is Key*** If there is a special occasion coming up that requires you to travel for an extended period of time on the road with a large group of people, you need to have the same type of safety and comfort level in mind as you would on a plane. So let’s say you’re going to your family reunion and everybody really wants to see you now that you’re pregnant. Well, you couldn’t be happier to come but you just need to check on the travel arrangements. You need to let whoever’s in charge of the planning know that in order for you to go, you need to be comfortable. You can even suggest that renting a couple of minibuses would be the best case scenario for not only you but for everyone in attendance as well because those types of buses provide passengers with ample spaceplus, everyone would be able to enjoy each others company on the ride without one person having to worry about navigating through the city. Air Travel: Have Your “Morning Sickness” Kit On Hand They call it “morning sickness” but the truth is that this alleged “morning sickness” can strike at any moment during the course of a day, so when you’re booking your flight be conscious that some flights can trigger nausea with the slightest bump in turbulence. To remedy the nausea that can be associated with flying, you can always ask the steward or stewardess for a clear, caffeine-free soda; the bubbly carbonation is what helps to settle your stomach. You can also keep peppermint oil in your purse or pocket. According to everydayhealth.com, simply smelling peppermint oil can ease nausea. It has that calming and “tingling” effect that actually relaxes your stomach muscles so that the bile in your body can easily break down fats easier. If all else fails, most airlines have those paper (sometimes plastic) bags at each seat in case someone does get sick.
Preparing for a Caesarean birth is a simple, but needed, process. As with a natural birth, there are a few simple tick boxes you will need to have in place for preparation of the arrival of your baby. Read on below now to get the gist of what to consider when leading up to your C-section. The List Of Preparation Tasks For Your Caesarean Who Will Be With You? Consider whom you would like to accompany you into the delivery room before your surgery. Make a list of the people, or person, who you’d like by your side, and make the hospital staff aware of your choice. Do You Want Music? some moms like to listen to a little music before the birth of their baby. If you would like that, consult with your doctor to see if this would be allowed. If you re given the green light, start compiling a play list to help you through your delivery! Do You Want A Camera? ask your midwife if you will be allowed to bring in a camera into the delivery room. If you will be, ensure you designate someone as your photographer. Where Would You Prefer The Screen Placement? if you would like to see the birth of your baby, be sure to ask the doctor to lower the screen upon delivery. Also, if you would prefer no screen, be sure to ask for that pre-surgery as well. How would You Like Delivery To Occur? be sure before you go into your operating room that the staff are aware of your delivery requirements. Would you like silence during the birth so that the first voice your baby hears is your own? How soon post-delivery would you like skin to skin contact with your baby? Be sure to stipulate all of your requirements clearly with your delivery team to avoid disappointment!
C-Section recovery is a much needed practice after welcoming your bundle of joy into the world. But where do you start? How can you begin to heal as a mom who’s jut delivered via Caesarean? How Long Can You Expect A C-Section Recovery To Take? Generally, the expected recovery time for a C-section is around 6 weeks. However, you may feel as though you need a bit longer. This is particularly true for moms who already have children. If you feel you need more down time, just continue to consult with your doctor regularly to keep check on your recovery. Looking after Your Wound You will need to follow your care instructions given to you by your midwife or doctor post-surgery. After the first few days of surgery, your bandaging will be ready to come off and your stiches removed. you should consult your doctor if at any time you feel: As though you are developing a temperature You are experiencing strange sensations such as tummy cramps or you are just not feeling well Your cut begins to act up in any way – swelling, discharge or becomes painful Pain Relief At Home Know that you are bound to experience a bit of pain and discomfort. You did just undergo surgery after all. As such, you will most likely be prescribed pain medication during your recovery time. You will also be able to make use of various products to help your recovery, such as the Upspring C-Panty range.
If you are researching about the respective question, the chances are that either you, or someone close to you, may be facing this situation. Another possibility is that you might have just gotten pregnant, and wants to look into the side effects or changes that pregnancy might have on your body. While I do know that just the thought of it makes you extremely worried and stressed, I recommend that you sit down, drink a glass of water and listen to me carefully. Don’t panic! As it often happens, such sweeping statements on the internet are a cause of panic and stress for everyone. I will start from the beginning, so the first question that you might have is, do all pregnant women experience hearing loss? The answer is no. However, if you have an earache or you think that your ear is ringing you should get it checked even though it is common. The second question may be how can we tell if we are experiencing hearing loss in early stages? The answer is that various symptoms can serve as indicators of hearing loss. Ringing or pressure in the ear, ear pains, and abnormal secretions are symptoms that should be taken seriously. While it is not necessary that they may lead to loss of hearing, and it can be something as familiar as cold. It is better to be safe than sorry. Even if it is something very common you should consult the doctor before taking any prescribed medicine. The time of your pregnancy should revolve around the doctor, your Health & Safety. Here listed below is the answer to your third question, how can hearing loss during pregnancy be solved? One of the following solutions will surely help you out. 1. A Hearing Aid I know just reading the heading is sure to freak you out. However, you should calm down and listen to what I have to say. It is not necessary that you will have to get a hearing aid; it is a possibility. What may happen during pregnancy you may experience hearing loss in one ear or other to some extent. It can be gradual or sudden. What you need to do is make sure you are aware of the changes in your body and consult a doctor at the slightest inconvenience. A hearing aid is not something that you may need permanently; using a hearing aid is only for your benefit. While it may not be permanent, it can be very effective. Some women lose up to 70% of their hearing during their pregnancy, and only 50% can be regained with time. What you should know is that it does get better over time and a hearing aid makes the transition easier. Check out this website doctear for health and safety. Most people don’t need a hearing aid as there is only 10 to 15% loss of hearing and it does not affect their normal everyday functions. However, if you have had a previous condition with regard to your ear bones, you are more likely to have permanent damage and will have to use the device. 2. Ear drops For some people who detect their hearing loss at early stages, drops can be very effective. As soon as you feel a slight discomfort while listening, you should visit the doctor. If the damage is only due to pregnancy, then you have higher chances of just getting rid of it with ear drops. If it is due to a previously present condition that the pregnancy has aggravated, you might have to use other means as per your doctor’s advice. It is necessary that you use drops that have been prescribed to you rather than just getting one from the drug store. 3. Stapedectomy If you have been diagnosed with otosclerosis and it hasn’t yet affected you, the chances are that the pregnancy hormones can accelerate the procedure and lead to great discomfort. In this case, with the recommendation of your doctor, you should look into stapedectomy. For those who are not familiar with this disease, it is the irregular growth of your ear bones. Although it is an invasive procedure, it has a good recovery rate. During the process, the doctors take out the irregular outgrowth and replace it with a device that continues to vibrate normally and therefore does not affect your hearing. However, if you discover that you have this during your pregnancy, it is better to wait for the baby to arrive before you get it done. If you know about it beforehand, you can get it done when you start planning a family. 4. Take Enough Sleep There are different reasons behind hearing loss in pregnancy so your physician might suggest a few basic things, for example, first and foremost would be to take care of your sleeping patterns. If you experience problems with hearing, take complete bed rest and keep your head immobilized in two pillows. Other than that, take as many fluids as you can. Apart from all these things, avoid stress as much as you can. Stress can affect your life adversely especially in the time of pregnancy. Hence, it is something that MUST be avoided. 5. Steroid Injections Last but not least, steroid injections. Recent studies show that steroid injections are also a cure to hearing loss. However, it cannot be administered during your pregnancy, as it may be harmful to the baby. If your doctor recommends steroid injections, it is going to be after you have conceived. However, it alone cannot fix the whole problem; you might have to take some medication as well. You may have to use hearing aid for the transitionary period until you get your hearing back. In conclusion, every problem has a solution, and nothing should stop you from starting your family. As I told you before, while it is absolutely normal, it is not necessary that you might experience it at all. About The Author This article is written by Katherine
Pregnancy is one of the most life-altering experiences for a woman. Pregnancy Awareness Week takes place from 10 to 16 February to strengthen pregnancy education and stress the important issues that promote a healthy pregnancy and safe motherhood1. This year Life Healthcare is focusing on educating women about gestational diabetes. Pregnancy can result in various risks for both mother and baby, the most prevalent of these risks is gestational diabetes, a condition in which a woman without diabetes develops high blood sugar levels during pregnancy. Pregnancy can affect the way a woman’s body processes sugar due to a high volume of hormones produced by the placenta. These hormones block the body’s ability to produce insulin that moves the sugar from the bloodstream into the body’s cells. “Gestational diabetes is most common from 20 weeks of pregnancy and is rarely diagnosed before this. Identifying the signs and symptoms of gestational diabetes isn’t always easy as they are nonspecific, however, a urine test, which is then followed up with a fasting blood test, can ascertain whether an expectant mother has this condition,” explains Dr Liz Radloff, Obstetrician/Gynaecologist at Life Wilgers Hospital. Risk factors for diabetes include being over the age of 25 years, being overweight, having conditions that cause insulin resistance, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and having high blood pressure prior to pregnancy. Gestational diabetes can result in various complications for both mother and baby, including a higher than normal birth weight, preterm labour and low blood sugar in the infant2. “Nutrition is critically important for an expectant mother and child and will assist in decreasing the risk of developing gestational diabetes. It is important for pregnant women to adopt a healthy, balanced diet and establish a regular exercise routine that is overseen and approved by their specialist. It is not recommended that women who are overweight attempt to lose weight once they have fallen pregnant. If weight loss is required, consulting with your specialist and a dietician will ensure that this is done safely to minimise the risk of complications,” explains Dr Radloff. Should diet and exercise fail in managing this condition, medication in oral or injectable forms may be necessary to manage high sugar levels. Generally, gestational diabetes clears after birth, however, mothers who have been diagnosed during pregnancy are likely to develop type 2 diabetes later. If a pregnant woman has gestational diabetes, her risk of type 2 diabetes after pregnancy rises. It is therefore recommended that mothers follow the same diet and exercise plan once their babies have been born. It is vital that expectant mothers listen to their bodies to avoid the risk of developing complications such as gestational diabetes. Life Healthcare places great importance on appointing a qualified and skilled healthcare practitioner to assist and monitor development during pregnancy. The correct medical assistance from a certified healthcare provider will ensure both mother and baby are kept healthy and safe during pregnancy. “Gestational diabetes can be a worrying diagnosis for an expectant mother. However, by managing the condition with your obstetrician/gynaecologist and making well-informed decisions related to your diet and exercise, risks can be mitigated, and expectant mothers can look forward to delivering healthy babies,” concludes Dr Radloff. For more information on pregnancy and pregnancy-related symptoms and developments visit our pregnancy guide in the link below: https://www.lifehealthcare.co.za/media/1567/pregnancy-guide-v2.pdf
Pregnancy is an exciting time for many women. Unfortunately pregnant women also suffer from headaches and migraines, and tend so self-medicate with over the counter medication. According to Dr Elliot Shevel, Medical Director of The Headache Clinic, and South Africa’s internationally recognized Migraine expert and pioneer in the field of Migraine Surgery, “Often the migraines or headaches worsen during the first trimester (the first three months of pregnancy), but don’t despair – in 70 % of women the migraines get better in the second and third trimesters. Unfortunately medication is not a good option during pregnancy, and the only pain medication that is safe is Panado or Paracetamol,” he says. “Unfortunately pregnant women who suffer from migraines with aura, (a term used to refer to warning signs of migraine such as seeing zigzag lines before the pain starts), usually don’t find relief in the second half of their pregnancy and have less chance of improvement.” Two studies show that many pregnant women rely on over the counter medication. The first study, published in the Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association, showed “a significant number of pregnant women relied on over-the-counter medication”. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Isra University Hospital in Pakistan for six months and comprised of 351 pregnant women who were interviewed face to face. Overall, 223 (63.5%) patients were using over the counter drugs before pregnancy and 128 (36.5%) had used them in a previous pregnancy. A further 133 (37.9%) were using the medications during the current pregnancy. Quite worrying is that a total of 103(77.4%) had no knowledge about the possible harmful effects of the medication they were taking. Whilst this study highlighted the frequent use of over the counter medications in pregnant women, another study, published in Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, indicates most women experience automatic relief during their 2nd and 3rd trimesters. So is surgery a viable option in pregnant women? One of the most successful treatment methods for migraine is to close off the small arteries under the skin of the scalp that cause the pain (not the arteries in the brain), by means of minimally invasive surgery. Commenting on the surgery during pregnancy, Dr Shevel says, ‘We usually wouldn’t do the surgery during the first three months of the pregnancy because the drugs used in the sedation or anaesthetic may affect the fetus and cause problems. After the first trimester the operation is safe to perform, but we prefer to wait until the baby is born to avoid any possible unforeseen complications. Sometimes however, an expectant mother is just in so much pain that the operation can’t wait.” Other pressing issues Expectant mothers always have a lot of questions about headaches and migraines. Here are some answered: Will the baby be affected by the trauma and pain of my headache? No, says Shevel. “There is no evidence to indicate this, but the baby can be affected by a medication the mother is using and that is why we are saying only Panado or Paracetamol is safe.” Is there an ingredient in the pill that aggravates or makes headaches worse? The short answer is yes. “The pill contains a variety of different hormones, and changes in those hormone levels can affect the headaches. It is interesting to note however, that although they can make the headaches worse, they may also sometimes make them better – it’s impossible to predict.” What role does breastfeeding play? According to Shevel breastfeeding can also play a role. “If women breastfeed after birth the headaches usually stays away until the baby is weaned. “
Lil-Lets has launched a new line of maternity pads designed to help new moms feel more comfortable, confident and protected after giving birth. During pregnancy, a woman’s body goes through lots of changes and this does not stop after delivery. Therefore, unlike other maternity pads on the market, Lil-Lets maternity pads are shaped for extra comfort, have wings for added security, a wide shaped back for complete confidence and protection and a super soft cover. Lil-Lets maternity pads are also fragrance free and individually wrapped to make it easy and discreet to carry in a handbag or baby bag. “Lil-Lets understands that every woman has unique needs and, as such, should be able to choose what works for her,” says Carolyn Purdy, Brand Manager at Lil-Lets. “The launch of our new maternity pad line is just one more option on offer within our range to ensure women feel comfortable and confident during the weeks following childbirth, giving them the freedom to focus on their new arrival.” Lil-Lets’ products include pads, non-applicator and applicator tampons, liners, intimate care washes and wipes. Lil-Lets maternity pads are available in a pack of 10 and can be found at your nearest supermarket and retailers nationwide from R39.99. For more information visit www.lil-lets.co.za
There’s nothing else quite like pregnancy to sharpen your focus on your health and well-being. The journey of carrying and nurturing new life within your body is an exceptionally special time, and moms-to-be are deeply invested in doing it as well as they can. Advice will inevitably come from all quarters, and it is important to tap into expert sources that will give you peace of mind that you are on the right track. The aim of Pregnancy Awareness Week this month is to help moms access the information they need to support a healthy pregnancy and safe motherhood. The Department of Health urges pregnant South African women to access antenatal care as early as possible in their pregnancies. This provides the opportunity to understand and manage any health issues, as well as get information on important factors such as self-care and nutrition. Once the pregnancy is confirmed by a nurse at a health facility, the mother can register for MomConnect, a free cell phone-based resource for accessing pregnancy-related health information. Nazeeia Sayed, a registered dietitian and spokesperson for ADSA (Association for Dietetics in South Africa), points out that good nutrition is vital as it supports a healthier pregnancy and a healthier baby. “Pregnancy is a great opportunity to get yourself and the family into the habit of healthy eating before the new baby arrives,” she says. “You don’t need special or expensive foods. A healthy diet during pregnancy is made up of foods that we commonly encounter when grocery shopping. A variety of fruit and veg, whole grains, legumes and lentils, dairy, plant fats and lean meats, fish and eggs can all be enjoyed while you are pregnant and will provide the nutrients you need.” What nutrients should moms-to-be focus on? Following a balanced diet according to the accepted healthy eating guidelines is the optimum nutritional route to support a healthy pregnancy. Pregnancy is definitely not the time for weight loss or fad diets that focus on particular nutrients at the expense of others. Registered dietitian and ADSA spokesperson, Cath Day says, “Energy (kilojoule) restriction during pregnancy is not recommended! High protein diets which increase ketone production are also not recommended as the foetus has a limited ability to metabolize ketones. It is much healthier for you to adopt a balanced diet with a good variety.” Nutrients such as folic acid, calcium, iron and protein are all important to the developing baby; however a balanced diet will, in most cases, meet these needs. Women enrolled in the government’s antenatal care programme will receive supplements of the essential micro-nutrients; and many women choose to supplement with folic acid to prevent the risks of Spina Bifida and cleft palate. Day points out that meeting protein requirements during pregnancy is as simple as ensuring that you eat roughly six servings or between 180 g- 210 g of protein each day (size of two palms or two decks of cards). One serving equates to 30 g lean meat or fish, 1/2 cup of legumes, 15 g nuts or one egg. “These are also the best sources of iron which is needed to prevent anaemia,” she says. “By eating fruit and vegetables high in vitamin C at the same time as eggs, nuts and pulses, you can enhance iron absorption from these foods.” Focusing on a variety of healthy foods for each meal or snack, rather than the particular nutrients, is what helps to ensure you and baby get what you need. Sayed says, “Some examples of this are choosing nutrient-dense meals or snacks like an omelette with veg, a fruit and yoghurt smoothie, a salad with raw veg, nuts or lean meat; or a cooked lentil dish with green leafy veg and rice.” What should moms-to-be avoid? Smoking tops the list of what shouldn’t be going into a pregnant body. While there’s debate about whether drinking one glass of wine is safe for a growing baby, many experts and governments around the world advise a complete avoidance of alcohol during pregnancy. Pregnant women should avoid foods with a greater risk for contamination with Listeria or other bacteria or parasites, including under-cooked meat and eggs, raw fish, processed meats and unpasteurised dairy and soft cheeses. Dietitians also advise avoiding fish that may contain high levels of mercury such as swordfish, shark, tuna steaks and canned fish brands that are not tested. Caffeine intake should be limited, and rather swopped out for decaf options, with water as your best beverage of choice. Foods that are high in salt, sugar and other refined carbohydrates should be limited as they crowd out the opportunity for you to eat healthy foods which provide for your vitamin, mineral and fibre needs. They can also lead to excessive weight gain which increases your risks of developing high blood pressure issues and gestational diabetes. Reach out and get help when you need it Healthy eating during pregnancy does not have to be complicated or a minefield. It might be more challenging for moms-to-be who need to make big changes; or who are overweight or managing other health conditions. A registered dietitian can be an important ally to come up with a healthy eating plan that suits your food preferences, your budget and your lifestyle. “The big advantage of using your pregnancy as the inspiration to eat well is that you can go on to become a healthy eating role model for your precious child, instilling healthy eating habits that can last them a lifetime,” Sayed concludes. To find a registered dietitian in your area visit www.adsa.org.za.
No doubt you’re excitedly waiting for your little bundle of joy to make his or her entrance into the world. During the last few weeks of pregnancy, it’s natural to feel tired and to experience an achy back. After all, your baby grows a whopping six inches during the last trimester, according to Health Line. However, these final weeks provide you with ample opportunity to prepare for the big day and the big changes that come with a newborn. Set up nappy changing stations A newborn baby will typically go through 12 disposable nappies per day. With so many nappy changes to come, it’s best to be prepared. Set up a nappy changing station which provides easy access to wipes, nappies, nappy sacks, and nappy rash ointment both upstairs and downstairs. By having multiple stations in your home, you won’t have to constantly run up and down the stairs with a baby in tow, using up all your energy. Batch cook The foods you eat are passed onto your baby in your breast milk, so it’s important to eat well after giving birth. Even if you’re not breastfeeding, you’ll need good nutrition in order to keep your energy levels up. Therefore, use the last few weeks of your pregnancy to batch cook nutritious and healthy meals which can be pulled out of the freezer following your baby’s arrival. Lasagnes, cottage pies, stews, and casseroles all freeze well and will provide you with satisfying meals, too. Prepare your hospital bag It’s advisable to have your hospital bag packed and ready to go by the time you’re 36 weeks pregnant. However, when you’re preparing to give birth, some mums-to-be prefer to leave the packing until last minute so they can be sure they’ve got everything that they need. Following a vaginal birth, you can expect to stay in the hospital for two days and one night. Whereas, after a c-section, you’ll most likely stay for three days and two nights. Therefore, it’s essential you’ve got enough supplies to see you through. Be sure to pack plenty of nappies and baby toys for your little one. Meanwhile, you’ll need items to keep you comfortable, such as pyjamas, dressing gown, and slippers, as well as more practical items, including disposable underwear and maternity pads. Rest up and relax Show Me South Africa reports that 24% of new mums only manage to get two to hours continuous sleep following the birth of their baby. Therefore, the last few weeks of pregnancy should be embraced and utilised. Use this time to get as much rest and to relax as much as possible. Catch up on your favourite shows, get a massage or have a manicure and relish those last few baby-free weeks. Parents-to-be should ensure they enjoy the last few weeks of pregnancy and use this time to prepare for their baby’s imminent arrival. By setting up nappy stations in your home, batch cooking and freezing meals, getting your hospital bag ready, and resting, you’ll be more than prepared for your newborn’s arrival.
One thing is for sure you love your wife and she is going to have your baby. I do not think there is anything more likely to bring out a man’s urge to protect. Your family is expanding and no doubt you have a variety of feelings, concerns, and thoughts all competing for attention. However, during this wonderful time there are some things you can do. Here is a list of 15, to start you off. Your urge to protect needs to be logical. She is still the strong, smart, capable woman you fell in love with. So, recognize though she is in the family way and will appreciate the extra care and attention. She is not a child so do not treat her like one. Morning sickness is hard. You know how your wife is when she is sick treat her that way. If she likes to be babied and pampered by all means do so. If she prefers to be left alone, occasionally ask if she needs help or how you can support her, otherwise leave her alone. Expect her to be exhausted. The lovely little one growing inside her is pulling on all her systems to grow and thrive. We always say a woman is eating for two. In fact, she is breathing for two, her heart is pumping for two, she is even walking for two. You get the message. In addition the baby only grows while she is sleeping, because that is how the body works. This means her sleeping will greatly depend on what stage of pregnancy she is in. Some if it has to do with trimesters. But, mostly it is dictated by the baby. Make sure she is fed. Because she is doing everything for two. She will be hungry more often. Pay attention to her cravings and try to keep those things on hand. Also, buy fresh foods like fruits and veggies she can grab and snack on. This is not a time for low fat diets encourage her to eat and drink full fat products. Pamper her as much as she will let you. Remember she is pregnant and not sick. However, carrying a child is hard on the feet. So, a foot massage a couple of times a week is great. Sleep can get difficult being a body pillow for her is awesome. But, if she is the kind of girl who does not like to be touched while she sleeps. Buying her a body pillow and sleeping in the guest room may be a great way to allow her to get some rest. Be sure to ask her if you sleeping somewhere else will help her rest better. Be sure she knows you are trying to pamper her not reject her. Women have body issues. Your wife is growing round. If she is having more than one baby it will happen pretty fast. Tell her she is beautiful. I have heard from many men their wives are sexier to them when they are pregnant. Tell her that and mean it. Sex will not hurt the baby, but the subject could make your relationship harder. You know your wife’s sexual appetite. Sometimes, this changes during pregnancy talk with her about how she feels about it. Hormones make a big difference it may ramp up or down, be prepared. Recognize it has more to do with hormones than how she feels about you or your relationship. Hormones are ruling her life. The fact she is pregnant releases a slew of hormones, and the growth of the baby produces a variety of hormones ongoing at differing times. Which means her brain is constantly being washed over with hormones. The result of this is called pregnancy brain. This ongoing wash causes women to have a type of brain fog. Their clarity is not as sharp and they can become forgetful. Go to Doctor visits. This is your wife and your baby considering pregnancy brain you want to be there to hear what the doctor has to say. This way you know how to support her. Please avoid statements like the doctor said too often. But, gentle reminders will be appreciated. Help design the nursery and recognize her need to nest. Many women will start wanting to talk about the nursery almost immediately after finding out they are pregnant. This is the nesting instinct, respect it. Listen and contribute ideas. if you are a handy guy talk about making somethings for the baby. Most parents want the new baby close so a cradle or bassinet would be a super project. Recognize you are both scared. Becoming a parent is an overwhelming thought, let alone a reality. Talk with her about your fears and listen to hers. Read or listen to books together about parenting. Help plan things like finding childcare, doing product research on which is the best crib and crib safety, check out car seats, look into insurance needs, plan a 529 plan. Coordinate your maternity leave, see how your 12 weeks can dovetail with hers. The first few weeks are heard plan to be there. Read to the baby. The first sense to develop in utero is hearing. Infants are often born recognizing the voices of their parents. As your wife sits or lays down put your head near her stomach and read. It would be fun to re-visit all your favorite childhood books. Going out and buying them would be a great way to begin building a great library for your child. Birthing Coach-are you good under stress? Labor and delivery is no place for the weak or faint of heart. This is the one place I am going to use this phrase-be a man and be willing to recognize your limitations. Do you want to man up and be there for your wife and child of course you do. But, can you do so realistically. Are you one who faints at the sight of blood. If they have
The truth is that a woman should not travel much when pregnant. It is time to stay close to home for maximum rest and mild exercise. However, traveling could be inevitable during pregnancy. Whether it is a one-time trip or regular travel at this delicate time for a woman, maximum caution will prevent numerous health and psychological problems. There are many publications that advise pregnant women on how to travel while pregnant. Some are helpful while others are not. It is up to you to obtain the information from reliable sources. Below are some of the most helpful tips for traveling while pregnant. Choose an Ideal Destination If it is possible to choose the destination, make numerous considerations before settling on one. Choosing a place to visit with favourable weather, excellent health facilities and clean accommodations is recommended. Countries with violence and a high crime rate should be avoided by all means. The Right Timing If it is possible, do not travel when the baby is almost due. You need time to settle down and identify the right health centres in the country where you plan to deliver. If you are traveling for a holiday, do it when the pregnancy is still in its early stages. The best time is before six months. Health experts discourage pregnant women from being tourists after six months of pregnancy; they need to be near home during this time. Pack Lightly A lot of luggage is not recommended especially if one is traveling alone. Since traveling while pregnant is mostly done out of necessity, do not bring more than is needed. Only pack the crucial things that you will use during your brief travel. Luckily, pregnant women wear light clothes, which do not take up much space. Shoes should also be light, and a few pairs will be enough for the trip. Choose Your Flight Seat Carefully We must all agree that traveling when pregnant is the most uncomfortable time to travel. One cannot sit for long before standing up to stretch or go to the washroom. It is important to pick an aisle seat that allows some freedom of movement. Most airlines usually assist pregnant women in finding an aisle seat rather than squeezing them between people, where they cannot even stretch their legs. Have a Snack and Water It may be difficult to readily find a healthy snack or juice during the journey. Even though flights offer snacks and water, these may not be what you are looking for. Carrying them with you is a better option for any pregnant women out there. It is easy to pack a snack or a healthy drink, and most flights will not have a problem with this. If drinks are not allowed through airport security, the airport will have a variety of healthy drinks for sale. Plan for the right time to eat your snack to avoid becoming too hungry. This may be earlier than the flight meals since a pregnant woman needs to have her energy up at all times. With these tips, traveling will be fun rather than a source of strain for a pregnant woman.
Congratulations on your second pregnancy! Wondering what lies ahead – besides a couple of extra stretch marks, additional lost sleep and, of course, the cutest, new baby? Here are some things I’ve learned that might help you prepare yourself and your family for Number Two. Yes, you will love the second one as much as you love the first. The science behind this apparently works as follows: The moment your child is delivered, its empty space inside your body is filled with all the love you require for it. Or something like that. Rest. When. You. Can. Understood – it’s much more difficult during a second pregnancy when you need to keep up with another little busybody. Moreover, if you’re working and running (sometimes literally) a household on top of that, it can be exhausting. Therefore, you might need to actively plan for resting times: Say no to things, resign from things, delegate things. Use weekends wisely and do not stay up late. You’re going to be stretched even further. Your body, that is. Your muscles are probably still shot from the first round of baby building and your organs still stuck in obscure places, so your belly can just expand without restriction. This is normal. Go big! Make a big thing about becoming a big brother/sister. Get your eldest excited about his sibling in a developmentally appropriate way. Read children’s books about pregnancy; let him help to prepare the nursery and pick out baby necessities; take him to sonar appointments; let him pray over or talk to the baby in your tummy. Also, make sure he understands that he will soon be sharing your attention with a needy baby, but that you’ll love him all the same. Get re-birth ready. While everyone’s story is unique, it’s common for second births to be quicker and a tad gentler since your body now has muscle memory to go by. Whatever route you plan (or do not plan) to follow – C-section vs normal; epidural vs unmedicated; home vs hospital – just make sure you have worked through any anxieties you might have after the first birth, especially if it was traumatic. Fear increases pain, reduces your satisfaction with the delivery and disturb those first bonding moments. It could even negatively affect the pregnancy. Work through your worries with a mentor, counsellor or friend. Be brave! Do something special for the first sibling sighting. A great idea is to have them “exchange gifts” (that you bought on their behalf, of course). Try to have space on your lap or in your arms for big sister or brother, so that their first impression of the baby is not that it took over their place. Thicken your skin. Your firstborn is most probably going to comment on your postpartum body in a less-than-diplomatic way. Steel yourself for anything from, “Is there another baby in your stomach?” to, “Why are you too fat to close your buttons?” Mind your marriage amid the madness! Don’t forget that you are firstly your spouse’s wife. Your marriage is not the “extra thing” you need to tick off from your to-do list – it’s the backbone of your family! Read more… It takes a village! Especially in those first few weeks, you absolutely need support. Have a good discussion with your spouse beforehand about realistic role division during the early days. Book a friend or family member to come and stay with you for a while or hire help if need be! Try your very best not to be alone with both kids for an extended period. Recovery 102. You might not bounce back as quickly as the first time…You are older. Your body has endured two pregnancies (and possibly double surgeries). You now have much more on your plate and exercising or fixing low-calorie salads may not happen soon. Have more patience. Eat less ice cream. Appreciate your incredible anatomy when you look at yourself in the mirror. Routine! Try to keep your eldest in a routine as much as possible. If your new normal will require changes – communicate it clearly. Don’t spoil her too much with treats, screen time, etc. because you feel sorry for them, or it temporarily makes your life easier – you will regret this later! Find a new rhythm for the family as soon as you realistically can. Read here about re-establishing routines. Again: Rest. When. You. Can. Capitalise on maternity leave – don’t see this as your opportunity to get things done. If there ever is a moment when both little ones are napping – join them! Dishes can wait. Postpartum depression is real. Catch it before it catches you. Be honest about your mental state and get help early on. BFFs in the making… The sibling relationship is one that will probably outlive you. Encourage it, treasure it and enjoy watching it develop. Here are some hints for parenting the pair. Expect to be surprised. Your second child is not a copy/paste version of the first. He will look different and be different, and you might need to figure out parenting all over again. She might be an unexpected angel. Or he might humble you with the realisation that you weren’t actually Parent of the Year before – your firstborn just had a more easy-going nature. Enjoy your new extended family! Double trouble? We can help! If you struggle to cope with the pressures of being a second-time parent, or if the new baby has created fresh chaos in your home – contact one of the Munchkins coaches to assist you in finding a new balance.
If you are wanting to breastfeed your baby you most likely have thought about getting yourself a breast pump. At first the idea may be simple but there are quite a few things to consider. To make sure you get the best pump for your needs, follow these 6 easy tips: 1. Rental or personal There is a difference between a hospital grade and personal grade pump. The Hospital grade and personal pumps use a different mechanism to help create the negative pressure that draws out your breast milk. The hospital grade pumps are mainly for mothers who have to establish their milk supply without the assistance of their baby. This would be a mom who has her baby in NICU, a mom who is adopting and wanting to breastfeed or a mom who has returned to work and needs to pump effectively and fast. If you are planning on only using a pump for a short period of time, the rental option maybe the most cost effective. The personal pumps are much smaller in size than the hospital grade pumps which makes them portable. Some pumps use both mains electricity and batteries which make them portal and ideal for taking to work to pump. 2. Used or new There are a lot of mothers looking at purchasing second and pumps online or borrowing a pump from a friend. The reason for this is that electrical pumps can be very expensive. Although you would be saving some money there are risks involved with purchasing a second had pump. Firstly, you do not know how many people used the pump before you, if the pump was in a house with smokers and if the pump has any mould or bacteria growing in the pump. It is always recommended to buy a new pump rather than a second hand one. This is very important for sick or babies in NICU. 3. Manual or electric The decision between a manual or an electric pump can be based on two main factors; Price and usage. As mentioned before, the price of electric pumps can be quite high which may affect the decision about how to express. Some mothers respond really well to manual pumps and find them easier to use compared to electrical pumps. Electrical pumps are mainly used by mothers who go back to work because they make pumping quick and effective. 4. Double or single Double pumps have two flanges so that you can pump both breasts at the same time. This helps to half the amount of time per pump session. Also, double pumping results in your breasts producing more milk per pump session. Single pumps are less expensive than double pumps and can be a very useful option. 5. Closed system or open system Closed and open systems refer to the ability of moisture or breastmilk to collect in your tubing or pump motor. With open system pumps, moisture or breast milk is allowed to collect in the tubing or motor which can allow for the growth of bacteria or viruses. This can be very dangerous for sick or premature infants. It is very difficult to clean out the tube and sterilise the tube or the pump once it has the milk in it. If you see breast milk or moisture collecting inside your tubes it is best to replace the tubing. A safer option is to use a pump that has a complete closed system. This means that the moisture or milk is not able to move into the tube or the motor. This results in you not needing to clean, sterilise or replace the tubing parts. Apart from the health benefit you will also save some money on the spare parts. There are some pumps that are not complete closed systems as moisture can collect in the tubes but not in the motor. 6. Comfort and fit Make sure that the pump you chose is comfortable and fits you well. If you are comfortable while you express, you will also produce more milk. Once you have decided which type of pump would be the best for you, make sure that the brand that you chose will fit you perfectly and be comfortable while you pump. Look for brands that have different size flanges because not all breasts are the same size. If the flange is too small it can hurt your nipple and if it is too big it can result in poor expression of breast milk. Once you have decided on which type of pump you would like to use, go online and read reviews, find out what is being used overseas and why. You might just find that the pump you were thinking about is really noisy and it will not be suitable at work. The more you know about a pump the better decision you can make, so that you have a comfortable pump that works best for you.
As your pregnancy progresses into the second and then third trimesters you will find that you are having more aches and pains. Backache, pelvic pain and hip pain are all very common during pregnancy and your chances of having these symptoms will increase as your pregnancy progresses and puts more strain on your body. If you are struggling with hip pain during pregnancy there are some natural and effective ways to find relief. Wear A Pregnancy Belt Pregnancy belts are designed to support the abdomen and lower back during pregnancy. Girdles or pregnancy belts offer many benefits for pregnant women, in particular during the second and third trimesters. Belly belts help to reduce back pain, joint pain and round ligament pain which is pain in front of the hips and below the belly. They can also help to support your belly when you exercise which makes it easier to get some gym time in. In addition to these awesome benefits pregnancy belts also help to promote better posture during pregnancy which will also help to reduce aches and pains. Support Proper support during pregnancy is absolutely vital to helping to alleviate any hip pain you may be experiencing. It is important to avoid standing long hours while pregnant and when you are sitting or sleeping you must have proper support. A pregnancy pillow will come very much in handy while you are pregnant. This will give you the much needed support you need and help you to find a comfortable sleeping position. Sleeping during late pregnancy becomes a challenge. It is best to sleep on your side and keep your legs bent. Putting a pillow in between your knees can help keep you in the correct position and help to relieve pain in the hips. It is also important to have the correct mattress when you are pregnant, Having a mattress that is too soft will not give you the support that you need and having a mattress that is too firm will cause aches and pains too. Make sure that when you are sitting down you have a sturdy chair that will help you to keep your correct posture, especially if you need to spend extended time in a seated position like at work. Make sure that you have a chair that will keep your hips and waist in the right position like this Herman Miller Aeron chair. Exercise Getting in regular exercise such as yoga or pilates can help with alleviating hip pain. These exercising stretch and strengthen the muscles around your abdomen and back. It is important to remember that if you have a strong core you will experience less hip pain and other pain. Make sure to always check with your doctor before taking up any exercise while pregnant. It is also important to ensure that if you go to any yoga or pilates classes that the instructor is experienced in prenatal yoga or pilates. Massage Massage comes with many benefits for pregnancy, including helping with relieving many aches and pains during pregnancy. When you get a pregnancy massage this helps to soothe, relax and loosen aching muscles. If you plan on going for a pregnancy massage make sure that the massage therapist you want to go to is qualified and experienced in prenatal massage. Swimming Swimming is an excellent way to keep fit during pregnancy without putting a strain on your body. The added benefit is that water is an amazing pain reliever too, this is why women use water for pain relief during labor and birth. You will be light when in the water and you won’t be putting all that pressure and strain on your joints and muscles. So if you suffer from hip pain during pregnancy try and get some regular swimming sessions in. Hot and Cold Compresses Both heat and cold can help to alleviate hip pain so you can try both to see which works better or even alternate between an ice pack and a hot water bottle to relieve the pain. Realign Your Pelvis Realigning your pelvic bone can help to reduce hip pain during pregnancy. To realign your pelvis lie on your back and put a pillow between your knees, then squeeze as hard as you can. Doing this can realign your pelvis so that you experience less pain. It can provide great relief when you are struggling with pain.
I’m no stranger to depression. From as far back as I can remember I’ve had bouts of it, some severe, some just dragging out like a rainy British summer. So when I read about PND in a pregnancy book I felt sure that I would recognise it if it hit me. I didn’t. The first time I realised something was wrong I was already on my way to familicide. I was literally loosening the top of the gas bottle where my husband and baby were sleeping peacefully when it occurred to me that this was not normal. The thing is, I didn’t feel depressed. All that was going through my mind was how nice it was going to be to have a really long sleep.Depression in the past for me had always meant crying… And crying… And crying. This was different. It manifested as an underlying irritability. Everything and everyone was annoying. My temper was short and my tongue was vicious. And the layers of guilt piled up high on top of that. The morning after that realisation I called the PND help group. Even then I was fighting to stay off meds. I wanted to be a “good mother” and breast feed for as long as possible. I was told that a good mother is one who is alive to see her child grow up and bottle fed babies grow up too. Too true. And so began my journey to figure out what went wrong and how I could shift this depressive state once and for all. My first glimmer of hope came from a talk I went to by a prominent nutritionist. He spoke about research they had conducted into PND and how the vast majority of cases we’re deficient in omega 3s. This specifically affected vegans and vegetarians. I had been a vegetarian for 20 years. I put myself onto a high dose of omega 3 fish oils (yes, I had to do some soul searching and moral debating first) and I weaned myself off the anti depressants within 6 months. During this time I did further research into PND and found four pervasive factors that contribute to your chances of going down this slippery slope: The first is your perception of the birth. Well I definitely ticked that box. I saw the whole experience as the most traumatic event of my life. I had anger at the midwife for misunderstanding my needs and requests. I had anger at my husband for not having to go through it; for just getting to enjoy the good bits. I had anger at myself for being so traumatised that I was unable to bond with my baby. I had A LOT of emotional processing to do. I set out to acquire the skills to do that. I had no intention of spending years in a psychologists office rehashing the event. I wanted results, and I wanted them yesterday. Babies grow fast and there was one growing up in front of me needing me to be in my best possible state to raise her. The second is your relationship with your mother. Research shows that women with a poor relationship with their own mother have a much higher chance of having a traumatic birthing experience and a higher chance of depression post partum. Tick again. My relationship with my mother was not horrific, more like not there. Again, I set about finding the tools for letting go of the past and any lingering hurt, anger and resentment. What I found was a way not just to understand the past but to actually come to a place of gratitude for everything that has ever happened, even the stuff we label as bad. A life of gratitude is a long way from a life of depression. Number three is the instant and dramatic shift in values that you experience. It is like being kicked out of comfort zone so far that you have no idea what your comfort zone even looks like and no strength to crawl back in it if you did find it. It takes time and patience to form a new one and usually if the shift has been dramatic it means that your kids are coming out somewhere near the new top. The fourth idea I came across much later, and that is the link between depression and fantasies. All depression has its basis in an unfulfilled fantasy and nowhere is a fantasy more thrown in your face than in motherhood. The moving pictures and glossy pages that fill your pregnant world are endowed with images of doting mothers, smiling sweetly down at their breastfed babies. They are not filled with bedraggled mothers wincing in pain as their babies latch into their cracked, bleeding nipples. They show you images of happy families, their white clothes blowing in the breeze as they throw their giggling baby into the air on the beach. They don’t show you the mother who cannot leave the house for fear of leaking through the two boat-sized pads she is wearing to soak up the B-grade horror movies’ worth of blood she’s losing daily. They show you happy families snuggling in bed together doting on their newborn with their hair looking gorgeous and their make up already done. They don’t show you the unshaven husband sleeping in the couch because to his sleep deprived wife his snoring is more like a log than a straw breaking that poor camels back. We get sold a well-meaning lie. The truth is uglier and harsher, but real. And acceptance of reality is one of the cornerstones of emotional well-being. I had to face a lot of ugly messy truths, including the one where I was a less than perfect mother. And that is true. And that is ok. You see what makes me good at what I do is not that I was or ever will be the perfect parent. What makes me good at what I do
Expecting a new baby is always an exciting time, particularly for first-time moms who are exposed to a whole new world of baby related must-haves. While it’s easy to get swept up in pre-baby planning, it’s just as important to ensure you are prepared by updating your insurance requirements before your baby arrives, according to Casey Rousseau, Marketing Manager of 1st for Women Insurance. “Generally speaking, there are five main insurance requirements all new moms should re-look in the run-up to the big arrival – car, home, personal, portable possessions and life cover,” she says. There will be a number of once off purchases which you, or even family members and friends, will make before baby arrives, and with the right insurance policy in place, you can keep it that way. Some of these items include: · Cot: R700 – R11 250 · Compactum: R1 300 – R3 200 · Baby monitor: R600 – R4 200 · Humidifier: R250 – R1 200 · Breast pump: R300 – R1 200 · Pram and carry: R1 000 – R3 000 · Car seat: R1 000 – R3 000 In terms of home insurance, Rousseau says it’s not just about adding all your expensive new purchases to your home policy, but also finding out what insurance would be required for specific baby-related items transported in your vehicle such as a pram, car seat, and anything stored in your baby bag. “In the unfortunate event that your vehicle is stolen or damaged with your critical baby essentials inside, they would in fact fall under the portable possession section of the policy, and not the car insurance policy, meaning it is always best to check with your insurance provider on what type of cover you will need,” says Rousseau. “There are also various personal insurance policies available such as cellphone policies, personal accident or scratch and dent policies to name but a few, which you can also consider adding to your insurance basket to ensure comprehensive insurance that best suits your lifestyle,” she adds. And while baby equipment and gadgets are replaceable certain things are not, and for this reason Rousseau emphasises the importance of thinking long term when it comes to securing the financial future of your child. Life cover is essential if you want to ensure your child is financially well taken care of should anything ever happen to you. “It’s very important for families to think about not only the type of insurance cover they need in preparation for a growing family but to also consider the benefits provided. With 1st for Women for example, our Guardian Angels Lifestyle Assistance benefit includes Nurse@First, a service which moms can call at any time of the day or night to get advice on what to do if their baby is sick, while the Guardian Angel on Call benefit provides emergency medical assistance when you are in a severe accident,” says Rousseau. “By being prepared before your baby arrives and ensuring your insurance needs and the benefits offered through the policies are right for you, it’s one less thing to worry about as a new mom. With insurance specifically designed for women, we know how helpful it is to have less to think about, so that you can get on with enjoying your journey into motherhood,” she says.
Expecting the arrival of your second child is an exciting event, but this may not be so for your older child, especially those between two and six years old. Start by telling your older child about the arrival of his or her new sibling. Use age-appropriate language and pictures to explain how the baby is growing so the connection can be made from about the 5th month of your pregnancy. Encourage your child to talk to and sing to your bump. Explain that the baby will not be a playmate right away and will sleep and feed most of the time but can also cry a lot because that is a baby’s only means of communication. It is important that children and parents learn together about what it means have a new sibling in the family. Let your child take part in the preparations, but constantly talk about all the excitement and preparation you made for his/her arrival. Get out the family photos and talk about how you had to feed, change, rock and cuddle him/her. Be honest about how tired you sometimes felt and that you may get tired again and not be able to play so many games together, but just for a while. When the new baby arrives allow your child to visit you and the baby in hospital. Do not hold the baby during this time until you have given undivided attention to the older child. Introduce them and allow the child to gently stroke and maybe even hold the baby with you. Now is the time to talk about how careful you must be with a small baby. Very young children could be upset, simply because their routine has been disrupted and Mom is in bed in a strange place. For them, do not put too much emphasis on the baby but spend the visit cuddling and talking. Regardless of your older child’s age, make sure that he or she gets individual attention when the new baby arrives home. (Do not arrive with the baby in your arms!) Remember to include him or her in photographs or videos you take of the baby. Sometimes children will act out with arrival of a sibling. Praise positive behaviour and give love, understanding and assurance rather than corrective discipline. They may have toilet training accidents, want to drink from a bottle or ask for a dummy. These are normal reactions that require tolerance during regressive episodes. If you make no fuss and little comment, the phase will soon pass. No one goes to big school with a dummy! Encourage your older child to be gentle with the baby and include them in activities that involve the baby such as bathing, changing and dressing. Encourage singing and talking to the baby. Babies are usually fascinated by older children. Praise him or her when they are helpful and always try and plan one on one time with them, so they feel equally important and cared for Help your child develop a sense of why they are a valuable member of the family by focusing on what they can do, and the baby can’t. Tell them that each member of the family is important for what they bring to the unit and the family needs each person for it to be whole. Raising your child to accept and adapt to new conditions within the households will assist them in future changes that may be challenging. Raising resilient and collaborative children is a priority in our world. Written by: Academic Development Coordinator of ADvTECH Schools Division, Barbra Eaton And Bev O’Shea, Principal at Junior College Preschools Tiny Town.
By 1Life You’ve finally taken steps to confirm the reason behind your weird cravings, unexpected emotional outbursts, the fatigue as well as all the other unusual things that have been happening to your body of late and so begins the journey towards motherhood. One moment you only had yourself to worry about, and now you’re making way for the new bundle of joy that’s growing inside of you. When you are expecting, taking care of your nutritional needs goes well beyond ‘eating for two’. Instead, there are certain nutrients that your body needs during this journey, to ensure your baby is healthy and that you keep yourself in excellent condition as well. Maryke Gallagher, a registered dietician in Cape Town and President of the Association of Diabetics in South Africa, states that from a nutritional point of view, the first 1000 days are the most important. This includes the time the baby spends in the womb, where the first 1000 days are said to set the stage for healthy brain development, growth and appropriate weight gain and building a strong immune system. Having a healthy nutritional plan is therefore vital and can also assist with protecting against chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure later in life. As a result, what you put in your body during this period is extremely important. Some crucial nutritional needs include: Energy needs: These increase in the second and third trimester, but this does not mean you should eat for two. It means increasing the energy intake by 800-200kj per day, the equivalent of a small meal snack, like yoghurt, fruit and nuts, or a slice of rye bread with nut butter and a fruit. Protein needs increase: Focus on eating more safe proteins, at least twice per week. Options that are generally considered safe include trout, salmon, herring, pilchards and mackerel. Plant proteins are mostly incomplete proteins. This means that legumes like lentils, chickpeas and butterbeans need to be combined with grains such as brown rice, quinoa or barley to form complete proteins. Soya beans and tofu are some of the only complete plant proteins. It is generally believed that it is safe to be vegetarian while you are pregnant if you plan carefully to eat sufficient proteins that meet the body’s demands. Omega 3 Fatty Acids: These essential fats are important in pregnancy for healthy brain development in the baby. Fish is one such example of a good source of Omega 3 fatty acids, which you should consider before taking supplements to ensure that you are meeting your daily requirements. These type of vitamins reduce the risk of preterm birth and play a role in the visual acuity of the baby. Later in life, they play a role in the IQ and behaviour of the child. They also play a role in regulating the mood of the mother. Total fat intake: Every cell in the body is made up of fats, and cell membranes consist of phospholipids that influence how well cells communicate with each other within the body. Plant fats are particularly valuable and include nuts, seeds, avocado, olives, olive oil, and flaxseed oil. Micronutrients: These are essential vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals. During pregnancy, the important ones are Folic Acid, Iron, Calcium, Vitamin D, B12 and Choline. Choline plays a role in the first trimester development of the baby, in particular the brain development and formation of neural pathways. Choline is found in animal-protein-rich foods such as eggs and beef. Haricot beans, soya protein, pulses and dairy products (like milk and yoghurt) are good sources of Choline. Folic acid is found in fruits and vegetables such as leafy dark green vegetables, liver, legumes and fortified cereals. The above is all important to keep in mind. However, your nutritional needs are in fact only one of very many aspects that you will need to consider as an expecting mom. As you enter this new life stage, your financial needs are also set to change and you will then need to start asking yourself questions about your financial plan. Things like, can you provide for the wellbeing and financial security of your child, the schools you want them to attend and if you are saving enough towards their future education. Safeguarding your assets is also an important consideration, which ensures that these will go to your child in your absence. These are the first of many aspects related to your financial planning that you will need to consider as you enter this new chapter. When starting your pre–birth financial planning, do a financial needs analysis to determine what your future financial plan should look like. Then ask yourself if your current long-term insurance provider can adjust your cover to cater for your growing family and financial needs. If they are unable to, look for a provider who can – and one who will become your partner in providing financial assurance as your family grows.
Expectant moms want the best for their babies but often feel overwhelmed by the information they receive on what is and isn’t good for them and their baby, which is often contradictory. Getting the right nutrients during pregnancy, and while breastfeeding, can help to ensure the best health outcomes for you and your baby, so it is important to be able to differentiate between facts and myths. Diet1 and appropriate nutritional supplementation2 play an important role in a healthy outcome for both mom and baby. Research has shown that conditions like excessive weight gain1,3,undernutrition caused by nutrient deficiencies2, and gestational diabetes4 during pregnancy can have a negative and lifelong impact on mom and baby.3,4 Abby Courtenay, a registered consulting dietician from Nutritional Solutions, provides tips below on how nutritional supplementation can help you have a happy and healthy pregnancy: When should you supplement your diet? If you suffer from loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, supplementing your diet will help you reach your calorie and/ or nutrients goals. If you are not consuming enough calories, not gaining any or enough weight or carrying a high-risk pregnancy, a nutritional supplement may help to bridge any nutritional gaps.5 Nutritional supplements which are formulated to contain a variety of nutrients, can be used as a great on-the-go option for busy moms who don’t have the time to prepare healthy snacks. These nutrients include a combination of carbohydrates, proteins and fats which will assist to lower your glycaemic response6, ensuring that you have sustained energy throughout the day; as well as a host of micronutrients to support a healthy pregnancy. It is important for you to look after yourself during pregnancy and whilst breastfeeding your baby – a happy, healthy mom ensures a happy, healthy baby Similac® Mom provides an easy and convenient nutritional solution for expectant moms as well as for breastfeeding moms. Similac®Mom is available at all major pharmacy groups and selected retail outlets and via online shopping. References and notes: Source: https://nutrition.abbott/za Muktabhant B, Lawrie TA, Lumbiganon P, Laopaiboon M. Diet or exercise, or both, for preventing excessive weight gain in pregnancy. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2015, Issue 6. Art. No.: CD007145. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD007145.pub3. Haider BA, Bhutta ZA. Multiple-micronutrient supplementation for women during pregnancy. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2017, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD004905. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD004905.pub5. Nutrition Working Group, O’Connor DL, Blake J, Bell R, Bowen A, Callum J, Fenton S, Gray-Donald K, et al. Canadian consensus on female nutrition: adolescence, reproduction, menopause, and beyond. J Obstet Gynaecol Can. 2016 Jun;38(6):508-54.e18. Abstract available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27368135 De-Regil LM, Fernandez-Gaxiola AC, Dowswell T, Pena-Rosas JP. Effects and safety of periconceptional folate supplementation for preventing birth defects. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2010 Oct 6;(10): CD007950. Abstract available from: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20927767 Nutrition Working Group, O’Connor DL, Blake J, Bell R, Bowen A, Callum J, Fenton S, Gray-Donald K, et al. Canadian consensus on female nutrition: adolescence, reproduction, menopause, and beyond. J Obstet Gynaecol Can. 2016 Jun;38(6):508-54.e18. Abstract available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27368135 Augustin LS, Franceschi S, Jenkins DJ, Kendall CW, La Vecchia C. Glycemic index in chronic disease: a review. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2002 Nov [cited 2013 Jul 6];56(11):1049-71. Abstract available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12428171
When you are pregnant everything that you take in your baby takes in too. This relates to the food that you eat, the drinks that you consume and of course any medications that you take. This means that you need to be very careful with the medications you take, even when it seems that they are seemingly harmless medications that you normally wouldn’t worry about at all. What Is Aspirin? Aspirin is a common, over the counter western medication that is used to treat fever, inflammation and/ or pain. It is quite the norm for most people to take aspirin to treat colds and flu, as well as many other common illnesses. Due to the fact that aspirin is such a common medication to take it can be easy to assume that it is perfectly safe to take while pregnant, however it is important to always check any medications that you want to take while you are pregnant with your doctor first. While taking a few low doses of aspirin during pregnancy may possibly have no negative, taking regular adult doses of aspiring while you are pregnant can causes problems for your baby, as well as for you. For this reason it is probably best to avoid taking aspirin altogether while pregnant unless prescribed by your doctor. It is also not recommended to take aspirin while breastfeeding. Taking aspirin during pregnancy can cause the following problems: Increase of miscarriage if aspirin is consumed around the time of conception and during early pregnancy. You are at higher risk of placental abruption (which is when part of the placenta separates from womb) if you take aspirin throughout your pregnancy. Your baby’s growth could be affected by taking aspirin regularly during pregnancy. Taking aspirin late in your pregnancy means that there is a chance that your labor could be delayed and it could increase the risk of your baby developing heart and lung problems after birth. Taking aspirin could also cause problems with bleeding complications for your baby and for you. A number of studies have shown possible links between birth defects and taking aspirin during early pregnancy, however none of these studies are conclusive – most of your baby’s development takes place in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy so it is best to avoid aspirin during this time. If you take standard doses of aspirin after 30 weeks pregnant it can result in the ductus arteriosus closing while your baby is still in the womb. The ductus arteriosus is a blood vessel that needs to stay open to supply the baby in the womb with oxygen and nutrients from the mother. If there is premature closure of the ductus arteriosus then your baby may need to be delivered early. Use of NSAID’s (Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, including aspirin) during pregnancy after 30 weeks can cause oligohydramnios which is when there is not enough amniotic fluid around the baby in the sac. How To Use Aspirin Safely While Pregnant There is no evidence to suggest that low dose aspirin has any negative effects on mother or baby during pregnancy, as long as both mommy to be and baby are healthy and not taking any other medications that may be affected by aspirin. Low dose aspirin is a total of 75 to 300 milligrams per day. In fact low dose aspirin is sometimes prescribed in these scenarios when pregnant: If you have Hughes Syndrome (antiphospholipid syndrome or APS), which means you are more prone to blood clots developing which in turn can lead to miscarriage. Taking low doses of aspiring along with the medication heparin will help to prevent blood clots from forming and reduce the chances of miscarriage occurring. If you have a high chance of developing pre-eclampsia due to having diabetes, having had pre-eclampsia before or if you have high blood pressure. If you have taken standard dose aspirin (325mg up to 4g per day) after you are 30 weeks pregnant you should inform your doctor immediately so that your doctor can assess your baby’s well being and you may need extra scans as well as monitoring. Check all the medications you take while you are pregnant, lots of over the counter medications such as Med-Lemon has aspirin listed in its ingredients. If you are pregnant the best is always to look for natural remedies for colds and flu, or alternatively ask your doctor to recommend medication that is safe for you and your baby.
For those who are well on their way to bearing a child, I’m sure you feel the happiness and can’t wait for your bundle of joy to arrive in the world! After all, that’s the point of starting a family, isn’t it? But with all these amazing things happening, there will be a bit of discomfort along the way. Yes, like what many mothers experience, there are painful pregnancy symptoms besides labor pain and contractions. While you are pregnant, you may feel nauseous, have weird cravings, or even experience a lot of mood swings along the way! Because of these symptoms, you’re afraid to experience pregnancy or feel nervous about it when in your first few weeks! It can get daunting, but as time wears on, you will realize that there are so many good things about pregnancy that outweigh the bad. Carrying your child doesn’t only mean that you have a new addition to your family, but that you will also experience so many amazing moments that have you feeling like you’re living miracles here! For starters, you’ll always be a priority and skip lines, staying in lounges or having all your loved ones focus on you and your comfort. Who doesn’t want all that extra attention and making people feel a bit of joy as you carry your child? You’ll also feel that overflowing joy and love as you hear your baby’s heartbeat and feel his first kicks. And that’s just the beginning! You see, there are so many things to be thankful for when you are pregnant, and it outweighs those uncomfortable symptoms you’ll feel along the way. Yes, there will be and times and you will feel down, but don’t let that ruin the whole experience! You will surely have an amazing time as long as you remind yourself why it feels great to be pregnant and the things you will experience along the way. That is why I made this infographic, to remind you why there are so many amazing things about being pregnant! So read up and enjoy the little moments. About The Author Hey guys, my name is Naser and I am a BSc Life Sciences student and fitness freak. I write about health, fitness and other remedies on my blogs. I am usually at the gym or strolling in the woods the time I am offline. Let’s connect.
Pregnancy is an amazing journey and towards the end moms to be start preparing for their labor and birth, as well as the exciting prospect of meeting their new baby. The baby nursery will be prepared and hospital bags packed and ready. Then once baby has arrived the new mommy will be spending her days caring for her new baby, breastfeeding and bonding. Another important thing to remember and focus on is that the first six weeks after birth is considered a recovery period. Some moms will recover faster and other moms may take longer. How you give birth will also play a role in your recovery period, your symptoms and how you will need to look after yourself. Here are some tips for recovering after birth: Postpartum Bleeding Postpartum bleeding is known as lochia. You can expect to bleed anywhere from 4 weeks to 6 weeks after birth. Postpartum bleeding is heavier than a normal period. Your bleeding will be heaviest for the first 3 to 10 days after birth and then it should get lighter. Postpartum bleeding is made up of blood, mucus and uterus tissue. Your bleeding will turn from red to pink to brown and finally to yellow-ish white. You will need to stock up on maternity pads which are much more heavy duty than normal sanitary pads. Keep in mind that you should not use tampons for the first 6 weeks after birth – tampons could lead to bacteria in your uterus during this time. Consider buying some disposable maternity panties for use in the hospital and while you are bleeding heavily at home. You will undoubtedly leak through your maternity pads at some stage and ruin your panties. Having these stretchy disposable panties means firstly that you are comfortable but also that you needn’t worry about stains and extra washing during this time. If you get large blood clots in your bleeding or your bleeding is excessively heavy so that you are bleeding through a pad in an hour or less contact your doctor immediately as this could postpartum hemorrhage. After Your C-section When you have a c-section you won’t be mobile on the day of the birth. You will receive a epidural which means your lower body is numb and you will have a catheter which will be removed the morning after your c-section. While you won’t be able to move around fast or far in the beginning it is important that you start moving around as soon as possible after your catheter has been removed. This will help your body functions to start working (especially your bowels). It will also help to lower the chances of any post-operation complications like blood clots in your legs. Many women experience gas and bloating after their c-section which may be uncomfortable and even painful. You will need to keep your c-section wound clean and dry for the first 10 days – you will probably have a waterproof bandage on it so you can shower. When you go for a checkup after birth your doctor will remove the bandage and check your scar to see if it is healing properly. Once the bandage is off clean your scar daily and pat it dry afterwards. Check with your doctor whether he advises you leave your scar open or keep it covered. Your c-section scar will be incredibly sore the first few days and stay tender for a long time after the operation. Your doctor will prescribe you anti-inflammatory medication as well as pain medication to help you manage the pain. Using a postpartum girdle after a c-section (or even after natural birth too) comes with many benefits, including providing your stomach with support which will help with easing the pain. You can read more about postpartum girdles here. It is important not to do any lifting after your c-section other than when you need to pick up your baby of course. Refrain from lifting anything other than your baby for the first 6 weeks to give yourself a chance to heal. After Natural Birth Giving birth naturally usually means a quicker and easier recovery than giving birth via c-section, however parts of your body will have taken a bashing. Make sure to look after your perineum (the area between your anus and vagina) properly. For the first 24 hours after birth ice your perineum. Keep a spray bottle handy and fill it with warm water when you need to urinate. Give your vaginal area and perineum a squirt of warm water before and after urinating. This will keep the urine from irritating any torn skin. Your perineum may have torn during birth requiring stitches or your doctor may have performed an episiotomy (a surgical cut to the perineum) to widen you vagina during an assisted birth, if your baby is in distress or to prevent your perineum from tearing. Your body may also be achy and sore from pushing. Your doctor may prescribe pain medication and you can also take a hot shower or use heating pads to ease the aching. Your Uterus and Tummy Your stomach will take a while to get back to its normal size, so don’t expect a flat stomach after birth. You may even still look pregnant for a while. It will take some time for your uterus to contract back to its normal size. You can also expect some cramping as your uterus contracts. Breastfeeding your baby will help your uterus to contract so you can expect to feel cramps when you breastfeed. It may take a few weeks to a couple of months for your tummy to start looking normal again. You can expect to have some stretch marks and if you have had a c-section you will have a scar. You can look into ways to reduce your stretch marks, but also remember that your stretch marks are a sign that you have brought life into this world. Caring For Your Breasts Whether you are breastfeeding or
