Smoking, drinking alcohol, and using street drugs can cause many problems during pregnancy for a woman and her baby, such as premature birth, birth defects, and infant death.
If you are trying to get pregnant and cannot stop drinking, smoking, or using drugs - get help! Consult your doctor or local treatment center.
Avoid toxic substances and other environmental contaminants harmful materials at work or at home, such as synthetic chemicals, metals, fertilizer, bug spray, and cat or rodent feces. These substances can hurt the reproductive systems of men and women. They can make it more difficult to get pregnant. Exposure to even small amounts during pregnancy, infancy, childhood, or puberty can lead to diseases.
People who are overweight or obese have a higher risk for many serious conditions, including complications during pregnancy, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers (endometrial, breast, and colon).
People who are underweight are also at risk for serious health problems. The key to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight isn't about short-term dietary changes. It's about a lifestyle that includes healthy eating and regular physical activity.
If you are underweight, overweight, or obese, talk with your doctor about ways to reach and maintain a healthy weight before you get pregnant.
]]>Whether or not you've written them down, you've probably thought about your goals for having children, and how to achieve those goals. It's really important to take steps to achieve your goal of getting pregnant and having a healthy baby!
Before getting pregnant, talk to your doctor about preconception health care. Your doctor will want to discuss your health history and any medical conditions you currently have that could affect a pregnancy. He or she will also discuss any previous pregnancy problems, medicines that you currently are taking, vaccinations that you might need, and steps you can take before pregnancy to prevent certain birth defects.
If your doctor has not talked with you about this type of care - ask about it! Take a list of talking points so you don't forget anything.
Be sure to talk to your doctor about:
If you currently have any medical conditions, be sure they are under control and being treated. Some of these conditions include: sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), diabetes, thyroid disease, phenylketonuria (PKU), seizure disorders, high blood pressure, arthritis, eating disorders, and chronic diseases.
Talk with your doctor or another health professional if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use "street" drugs; live in a stressful or abusive environment; work with or live around toxic substances. Health care professionals can help you with counselling, treatment, and other support services.
Taking certain medicines during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects. These include some prescription and over-the-counter medications and dietary or herbal supplements. If you are planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the need for any medication with your doctor before pregnant and make sure you are taking only those medications that are necessary.
Some vaccinations are recommended before pregnancy, during pregnancy, or right after delivery. Having the right vaccinations at the right time can help keep you healthy and help keep your baby from getting very sick or having lifelong health problems.
Folic acid is a B vitamin. If a woman has enough folic acid in her body at least 1 month before and during pregnancy, it can help prevent major birth defects of the baby's brain and spine.
]]>Undeniably, poor habits during pregnancy have been associated with oral problems such as Pregnancy Gingivitis, Pregnancy Granuloma, tooth erosion, and so forth. But with good oral hygiene and professional oral health care, pregnant women’s teeth can stay healthy.
Below are 4 tips that will help you take care of good oral health during pregnancy:
You should limit the very cariogenic sweets and peck off the 5 recommended meals a day. Annoying and common nausea can also cause a change in the pH of your saliva, causing it to become more acidic and affect the enamel of your teeth, making them more vulnerable. It is easy to combat nausea with sweet foods but instead, you are recommended to consuming enough fruits.
Although it sounds cliché, it is of utmost importance during pregnancy to keep your mouth always clean. It is recommended for you to brush teeth and tongue after each meal for at least 3 minutes.
Though the bristles on your toothbrush have yet misshapen or frayed, it accumulates bacteria and is exposed to external agents that can affect your oral health. It is advisable to replace it with a new one every three months especially if you have had a contagious disease, such as cold.
When you are planning for pregnancy, it seems that books and people around you do not really let you know that women usually need to prepare for changes pregnancy will bring to their body before it happens.
Pregnancy journey is challenging. It may give rise to problems such as gastrointestinal weakness, joint pain, urination disorders, constipation and diarrhea, and bleeding. Though experiencing tiredness during pregnancy is common, the problem is that the impact of pregnancy and childbirth can persist even after delivery.
During the 10 months of pregnancy, the fetus gets all the necessary nutrition from the mother. The food you eat during pregnancy gets broken down and passes across the placenta to nourish your growing baby. If your body parts has yet prepared to share with your baby and you are not prepared to withstand the loss from pregnancy and childbirth, problems will appear from the time of pregnancy, or it will start to appear after birth. Hence, it’s pivotal to schedule a check-up to know the weak parts of your body before pregnancy. You need to restore them to the healthy state beforehand.
Exercise during pregnancy is not easy, there are many cases where movement decreases relatively. But exercise has lots of benefits where it minimizes the loss of muscle resulting from pregnancy, and prevent your weight from becoming unnecessarily high. Exercise can be keep going until delivery unless you feel discomfort or pain. Muscles should be fully developed to ensure a quick recovery after childbirth and to prevent any disease.
If you are not pregnant yet, keep exercising consistently, strengthening especially the abdominal, pelvic, hip and leg muscles. The baby is heavier than you think, so it would be great if you can build up arm muscles in advance to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome.
Lacking of bone density may be due to lack of exercise and outdoor activity, exposure to sunlight, or coffee drinking habit. Bone mineral density can drop sharply after giving birth, so it is recommended for pregnant mothers to take calcium supplements. When choosing calcium supplements - calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D should be taken together, and iron should be avoided. This is because iron interferes with the absorption of calcium. If you need to take iron, you can take it 2 hours apart.
You need not worry about the postpartum body. You can be healthier than before if you keep managing your body. If at any time there is a possibility of pregnancy, you should always be ready physically.
]]>A new study reported by HealthDay News suggests that women whose final stages of pregnancy occur during the short, dark days of winter may be at increased risk for postpartum depression. It has to do with reduced exposure to sunlight -- the same cause that contributes to seasonal affective disorder, or SAD. That's a type of depression that usually starts in fall and winter and disappears in spring and summer.
Common symptoms of postpartum depression include:
Cause of postpartum depression
No one knows why some women get postpartum depression and others don't. The sharp drop in the hormones estrogen and progesterone after childbirth may trigger the illness, and lack of sleep is one of the major factor as well. Some women face self-identity complex and feel new responsibilities entering motherhood, and this can contribute in.
If you've had depression in the past, a family history of depression or mental illness, a traumatic life event during pregnancy, alcohol or drug abuse, trouble during childbirth or issues with the baby’s health, mixed feelings about the pregnancy, and no strong support system, you're more likely to develop postpartum depression.
Note: If you're breastfeeding, it's crucial to know that antidepressants can be passed to your infant through your breast milk. Though this is shown to be safe for many drugs, it's best to consult your doctor if you have safety concerns. Postpartum depression itself poses risk to an infant, if a mom goes without needed treatment.
]]>1...Spotting and Cramping
The spotting and, sometimes cramping is the result of the fertilized egg attaches itself to wall of the uterus after conception. The cramp resembles menstrual cramps, so some women mistake them. Also, Implantation bleeding may also occurs anywhere from six to 12 days after the egg is fertilized.
Apart from bleeding, a woman may notice a white, milky discharge from her vagina. That's related to the thickening of the vagina's walls, which begins almost instantly after conception. The discharge is attributed to the increased growth of cells lining in the vagina.
2...Breast Changes
Yours may become swollen, sore, or tingly a week or two later due to the hormone levels rapidly change after conception. You may feel heavier or fuller, or feel delicate to the touch. The area around the nipples may darken. As your body is going through a tremendous change, it is going to take several weeks to get used to the new levels of hormones. But when it does, breast pain should subside.
3...Fatigue
Feeling very tired is normal in pregnancy, especially in early pregnancy. A woman can start feeling uncommonly fatigued as soon as one week after conceiving. It's often related to a high level of a hormone called progesterone though other factors - such as lower levels of blood sugar, lower blood pressure, and a hike in blood production can all contribute.
4...Nausea (which also known as Morning Sickness)
You can get it at any time of the day, but most commonly in the morning. Pregnancy hormones likely contribute to this symptom.
Also, some women happen to crave, or can't stand certain foods when they become pregnant. The effect can be so strong that even the thought of what used to be a favorite food can turn a pregnant woman's belly.
5...Missed period
This is the most noticeable early symptom. Besides pregnancy, it might be that you gained or lost too much weight. Hormonal problems, fatigue, or stress are other possibilities. Some women miss their period when they stop taking birth control pills.
Other symptoms of early pregnancy may include changes in hormonal balance, and this can cause frequent urination, constipation, mood swings, headaches and back pain, dizziness and fainting.
A pregnant woman could have all of these symptoms, or maybe have only one or two. If any of these symptoms become troublesome, talk with your physician or OB/GYN about them so you can make a plan to offset them.
]]>Seeds
Little pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and sesame seeds have "good" fats that can lower cholesterol. In general, fats that come from animal products are less healthy than those from plants. Fatty cuts of meat, full-fat dairy products, and some packaged foods that contain "Bad" fats. Be sure to check food labels to see how much fat, and what type, you're getting. Limit saturated fats and avoid trans fats.
Nuts
All nuts are good for your heart. Walnuts, especially, deliver heart-healthy fats, however one should consume it moderately. Just because the fats are healthy doesn't mean you can eat as much as you want. A serving is 1 ounce. That's about 14 walnut halves, 23 almonds, 28 peanuts, 18 cashews, and 19 pecan halves.
Olive Oil
Try olive oil when you're cooking or dressing your salad. It's high in good fat. Be mindful, though: It's always smart to watch how much fat you eat, regardless of the type of fats you consume. Cook with less oil than a recipe calls for. You may also use an olive oil spray.
Eggs
Eggs are a great source of inexpensive protein. A large, hard-boiled egg has 5.3 grams of fat, most from healthy fats. Some eggs are also enriched with extra omega-3s. It will state so on the carton.
Ground Flaxseed
As part of a healthy diet, good-for-you fats can help make your skin look great -- plumper and younger. Plus, they add fiber and can help ease inflammation. Get good fats by sprinkling a teaspoon of ground flaxseed on your salad or your cereal, or use it when you're baking.
Beans
Adding beans to your diet can be good for you mentally and physically. Beans have omega 3s, which may help with mood.
]]>"A baby shower can really help a mom-to-be feel less overwhelmed by equipping her with a lot of what she'll need when the baby arrives."
There are 101 Tips You Must Know to Throw an Awesome Baby Shower:
Tip #1 WHEN should you plan a baby shower?
Hosting a baby shower when the mom-to-be is 28 to 35 weeks pregnant is ideal for her to exchange duplicate gifts, fill in what’s missing and organize the nursery.
Tip #2 HOW LONG are baby showers?
It usually runs for 2-3 hours, with the meal and unwrapping of gifts taking up the bulk of the time.
Tip #3: WHERE should you hold a baby shower?
Private homes, restaurants, church halls and tea rooms are ideal for hosting baby shower.
Tip #4 WHO do you invite to a baby shower?
Depends on the type of party you want.
It’s best to invite the mom-to-be closest friends, immediate family, or the mom-to-be community.
Tip #5: WHAT do you serve at a baby shower?
Since most showers are afternoon affairs, keep the menu light and flavorful. An ideal menu could be savory tarts, quiches, salads, soups and pasta, mocktail and cocktail. Try to avoid strong-odors food as pregnant women could be very sensitive to smells.
Tip #6: WHAT do you do at a baby shower?
Games and activities. Have each guest write a message or draw a picture with permanent markers or fabric paints on a square of fabric, and sew the squares together into a cute play blanket or quilt as a momento for the mom-to-be.
Tip #7: WHAT's the Best Baby-Shower Gift?
Things like blankets, nappies, diapers, baby wipes, baby clothes, thermometer, safety nail scissors, bottle sterilizer, nipples, breast pump, milk storage bags, crib, nasal aspirator are items that every mother will need.
At Little Martin's Drawer, we would like to reward our customers with loyalty program.
*You can pick your desired baby bundle gift now at the best price offered.
SHOP NOW TO ENJOY THE LIMITED-TIME OFFERS!!!
]]>Pumping and storing milk
The tip is if you’re going to be away from your baby for more than a couple hours each day, you’ll need to pump to keep your milk supplies up...a lot. You can get breast milk by hand or pump it with a breast pump. It may take a few days or weeks for your baby to get used to breast milk in a bottle. So it's advisable to begin practicing early if you're going back to work. Breast milk can be safely used within 2 days if it's stored in a refrigerator. Breast milk can be frozen for up to 6 months. Do not warm up or thaw frozen breast milk in a microwave. That will destroy some of its immune-boosting qualities, and it can cause fatty portions of the breast milk to become super hot. Thaw breast milk in the refrigerator or in a bowl of warm water instead.
The good news is rather than going cheap, Little Martin’s Electric Double Breast Milk Pump Kit which implant with a Rechargeable Battery - Wireless and Travel-Friendly can surely cater to your very needs. It has advanced rhythmic design mimics a baby's natural sucking behavior so you can safely release more milk, fast and consistently. Cushioned silicone breast shield maximizes comfort and prevents leakage, and more pros just to name a few. Undeniably, its ease of use and convenience are worth every penny.
Also, Little Martin's Breastmilk Storage Bags with Temperature Measurement and Improved Leak-Proof - Patented Zipper Design & BPA Free, that is ideal for storing, freezing, warming up, and pouring breastmilk into feeding bottles serve as a complementary role with your breast pumping.
]]>Although most women who experience vaginal bleeding go on to have perfectly healthy babies, heavy or prolonged bleeding could be an indication of something more serious.
Bleeding in the First Trimester
The most common sign of a miscarriage within the early stages of pregnancy is vaginal bleeding. Other signs include cramps in the lower pelvis and tissue passing through the vagina. Most miscarriages occur during the first trimester and are generally the main cause of concern for bleeding early on.
Implantation bleeding is another cause for bleeding in early pregnancy. This occurs when the fetus implants itself into the womb lining and can cause some light bleeding or spotting. This bleeding doesn’t tend to last more than a few days.
Bleeding during the first trimester could also signal an ectopic pregnancy. This is when the fetus begins to grow outside the uterus, usually in one of the fallopian tubes. Symptoms also include cramping and abdominal pain. Emergency medical care is needed if a fallopian tube ruptures in an ectopic pregnancy.
Another cause for bleeding is a rare condition known as the gestational trophoblastic disease in which the embryo does not develop properly and becomes an abnormal growth instead of a baby.
Bleeding in the Second or Third Trimester
Bleeding during the second or third trimester is less common and may be a sign of a more serious problem in the pregnancy, such as placenta previa, in which the placenta partially or completely covers the opening of the birth canal, or placental abruption, where the placenta detaches from the wall of the uterus.
Placenta previa can be diagnosed from an ultrasound, and will mostly likely result with your baby being born by caesarean section. Treatment of a placenta abruption usually involves bed rest, close monitoring of the baby, or, in more serious cases, the early birth of your baby.
Minimizing Risk of Miscarriage When Bleeding
While there is no specific treatment to prevent vaginal bleeding or a miscarriage, there are steps that can be taken during and after bleeding to minimize the risk.
Getting plenty of rest in the early stages of pregnancy is recommended, and if you do experience minor bleeding, get complete bed rest for at least a few days. Also avoid any strenuous activity such as running, carrying heavy weight, or having intercourse, and make sure to stay well hydrated.
When To See A Doctor
See your doctor immediately or go to your nearest hospital emergency department if you experience any of the following symptoms when pregnant:
Babies need at least a few months to begin developing circadian rhythms which keep them awake during the day and asleep at night. This means new moms will need to adapt to their newborn’s sleeping routine consisting of short but many naps spread throughout the day and night.
According to Lauren Broch, Ph.D., the director of education and training at the Sleep-Wake Disorders Center at New York-Presbyterian Hospital, fragmented sleep not only leaves you exhausted but also affects the way you think and cope. Impaired judgment stemming from sleep deprivation can even put both you and your baby’s safety at risk.
Additionally, chronic insomnia has been to linked to a range of medical problem including loss of concentration and high blood pressure.
Baby Sleep Patterns
During the first 4 to 6 months, babies tend to sleep soundly in 2 to 4 hour periods, spaced evenly throughout the 24-hour day. As their circadian clock begins to develop from 6 months onward, they will start to sleep for 6-hour periods throughout the night, and no longer require night feedings.
Infants between 6 to 9 months of age may begin night waking. Don’t worry as this is a normal part of development, and should usually only last a few minutes at most. Instead of rushing to your baby’s side, allow some time for him or her self-soothe and fall asleep on their own.
If your baby keeps fussing and crying, check for other reasons that may be keeping your baby up. He or she might be hungry or overheated, may have overslept during the day, or be experiencing separation anxiety.
Strategies To Help You Get the Rest You Need
With planning, preparation, and prioritization, you can make it possible to get the sleep you need to take care of yourself and your baby. Read on for tips to help you achieve this.
Although easier said than done, sleeping in short, broken intervals are still better than no sleep at all. To help with sleeping during daylight hours, try blocking out sunlight with thick curtains or drapes. You can also use eye masks and earplugs.
It’s also a good idea to try and catch up on sleep during the weekends if you have help with looking after the little one.
Having a partner to alternate between night duty is a great way to ensure at least one of you gets an uninterrupted night's sleep. If you are breastfeeding then you might want to consider pumping and storing milk for when it’s dad’s turn to stay up.
Prioritizing sleep means learning to say “no” to other requests that are not strictly necessary, especially within the first 3 months.
A simple bedtime routine can help get your baby sleeping through the night sooner. This could involve a bath, changing into sleep clothes or a lullaby to help ease them into sleep. Moving the bedtime earlier also helps lengthen the sleep period.
]]>To help deal with these common challenges, we’ve put together a list of the top five, including tips on how to cope and overcome them.
Having “unloving thoughts” toward your child
As cute and adorable children can be, they are at times infuriating to deal with, especially when they misbehave, talk back, or betray you. For example, if a child talks back rudely or refuses to do what you ask, you may find yourself feeling anger or even hatred toward your child. Many new moms also confess to feeling tremendous guilt immediately after.
To cope, firstly remind yourself that anger is a normal human emotion, especially for a parent, and if you learn to control it, can be used in a positive and healthy way. Do this by using the opportunity to teach your child how to behave when feeling angry by taking a few deep breaths, responding calmly or walking away, instead of exploding.
If you still find it difficult to control your temper, it may help to figure out why you are reacting in such a way. You may find yourself having unrealistic expectations toward your child, or that you are letting out your frustration at someone or something else toward your child. Emotions generally build up when you are tired or stressed, so looking after yourself may help you to feel calmer and better able to get a handle on your temper.
Difficulties with breastfeeding
New moms are often told that breastfeeding will come naturally and end up feeling discouraged when having difficulties getting it right. It also doesn’t help that a lot of pressure comes their doctor, friends or family to nurse their baby. However, in reality, most women find that it takes days or even weeks of work and practice to get breastfeeding right before it starts to feel natural.
If you are having difficulties breastfeeding, do not be afraid to ask for help from a lactation consultant or nurse. If you are feeling discomfort, it may be that the positioning needs some adjustment. Give yourself time to get the hang of it before stressing out.
Pressure to be perfect
Striving for perfection in motherhood will make you crazy. Instead of trying to live up to unrealistic expectations, learn to accept that you will make mistakes, your baby will cry, and that the house will not always be spotless. Rethink your goals and strive to provide a safe and loving environment rather than micromanaging every little detail of your baby’s schedule.
You may also need to learn to ignore criticism from friends, relatives, or even strangers about your parenting. People tend to judge and make comments on just about everything, so do not take it personally. Instead, thank the person for their tips and continue to do what you believe is right for your baby.
Anger toward your husband
Another emotional challenge new moms face is anger toward their husband, whether it be a disagreement about parenting, discipline, splitting the household chores, or simply feeling misunderstood. A lot of pressure is added to both moms and dads with the addition of a child. New moms may resent their partner for being unsupportive, while fathers may feel more pressure to provide for the family financially.
To cope, first acknowledge that parenting can be really hard and is going to stress your relationship at times. As you are both in new territory, accept that your spouse will have his own way of dealing with the added stress and that he is probably doing the best he can.
Communication is also very important. Let him know what you need from him instead of expecting him to read your mind. You can even schedule times when he will take over a night feeding, clean, cook or do the laundry.
Uncertainty about your job
Choosing between returning to work or becoming a stay-at-home mom can be a tough decision. Being alone all day with a baby can feel isolating and lonely at times. But at the same time, working moms often feel guilty over not spending all their time with their children. Work gives moms a sense of community and structure, which they can miss when taking care of a baby full-time.
When considering your options, don’t see it as a choice you must stick to for the long-term. If you want to try re-entering the workforce, give it a monthly time frame, and if things don’t work out then you can always make a change. Another option is to consider flexible, part-time work that can help you strike a balance between the two that works for you.
]]>The best method of storage will depend on how soon you want to use the milk. Freezing destroys several substances in your breastmilk that helps your baby fight infections, so if you plan to use it within a few days, opt to refrigerate your milk. Still, frozen breastmilk is beneficial and a better option than formula.
Find out how to store breastmilk safely with the guidelines below:
Collecting and Storing Breastmilk
Always start by washing your hands before expressing and handling milk for storage as this will reduce the likelihood of any bacteria growth. Also make sure to keep your breast pump clean by washing parts in hot, soapy water, and rinsing them thoroughly before sterilizing.
Choose plastic bottles or plastic disposable bags designed specifically for storing breastmilk as glass may crack or chip. Sterilize containers before use.
Prior to placing collected milk into the fridge or freezer, make sure any bottles or bags are sealed tightly and labelled with dates to help you keep track of your supply. Use the oldest milk first.
Breastmilk Storage Guidelines
|
|
Room Temperature |
4 to 6 hours at 66 to 78°F |
Cooler with Ice Packs |
24 hours at 59°F |
Refrigerator |
3 to 8 days at 39°F |
Freezer |
6 to 12 months at 0 to 4°F |
Warming and Defrosting Breastmilk
To defrost breastmilk, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or for a quicker method, hold the container under warm running water. To bring it back to body temperature, place the bottle or bag in a bowl of warm water for 20 minutes, or use an electric milk warmer.
Do not refreeze thawed breastmilk, and make sure to use it within 24 hours after defrosting.
Tips For Collecting and Storing Milk
Start pumping and storing milk before returning to work, so you have a supply of fresh milk for feeding the next working day. Save frozen milk for emergencies.
When pumping and collecting milk throughout the day, you can continue to add small amounts of cooled breastmilk to the same refrigerated container. But avoid adding warm milk to already cooled milk.
Breastmilk Odor or Taste Changes
A change in breastmilk odor or taste can occur during storage, when the milk is exposed to light, or cold temperatures. Some mother’s produce a breastmilk enzyme called lipase which, when thawed, gives off an unpleasant smell. Most infants will not be affected and still accept the milk. However, in some cases they may develop taste preferences and refuse to drink it.
To eliminate lipase-induced milk, scald fresh milk before freezing by heating it in a pot until tiny bubbles form around the edges of the pan (approximately 180°F), then remove it from the heat and quickly chill before freezing. Once milk is frozen, scalding milk will no longer work to eliminate odor or taste changes. Whenever possible, feed your baby fresh breastmilk as scalding also reduces some beneficial components.
]]>With more mothers now returning to work only a few months after giving birth, employers are becoming more aware of the need to provide a time and space for expression in the workplace. If you do plan to go back to work and want to keep your baby on breast milk, here are some tips that will help you prepare for a smoother transition.
Plan Your Feeding Schedule and Establish Your Milk Supply
Before returning to work, try setting up a definite feeding pattern by following scheduled nursing times for at least 4 weeks. It is important to avoid distractions while feeding such as talking on the phone or browsing the computer. A feeding schedule will not only help you set up for routine pumping times after returning to work, but also aids with expression and building a strong milk supply within the breasts.
Once you get started using a pump at work, a good tip to increase milk production is to pump for at least 15 to 20 minutes per session, even if the amount of milk expressed does not immediately increase.
Also try to add another pump session, either first thing in the morning or at the end of the day before going to bed. This will improve milk supply. It’s also a good idea to get as much as sleep as possible, especially on the weekends.
Invest In A Travel-Friendly Breast Pump
Make your trips easier by opting for a travel-friendly breast pump. A lightweight, compact device will reduce extra weight to carry around, while a wireless operation feature removes the need to carry around cords or finding a power outlet whenever you need to use the pump.
Little Martin’s Electric Breast Pump is a great option providing mobile support to breastfeeding moms with its rechargeable battery and portable design. The quiet motor will also help you to feel more comfortable expressing at the workplace.
Speak With Your Employer In Advance
Make sure to talk with your employer well ahead of time about your plans to pump at work. Don’t be afraid to mention you will require a clean, private area with a lock on the door. This space could be a manager’s office or a corner of a storage room.
Breastfeeding employees have the legal right to break times and a private place to pump milk throughout the work day, so knowing your rights and communicating early on are key steps to transition back to work.
]]>Learn to combat 7 common new mom stresses with our tips below:
Sleep Deprivation
Though it may be difficult to adjust at first, sleeping when the baby sleeps is a handy way to get a sufficient amount of sleep each day. Not only is sleep a medical necessity, it can help prevent postpartum depression. If you have a hard time napping during the day, try dimming the room as much as possible as use earplugs to block out noise.
Taking turns with your partner to handle the night shift is a great way to make sure one of you gets a good, interrupted sleep at least once every couple of days. It’s also a good idea to work with your pediatrician early on to get your baby to sleep through the night.
Baby Keeps Crying
Not being able to stop your child from crying can often lead to panic, anxiety and stress. As frustrating as the situation may be, it’s important to keep your composure and remind yourself that crying does not necessarily indicate your baby is sad or distressed. Newborns cry as a means of communicating all sort of things to their parents, including being hungry, cold, tired, wet, or overstimulated.
Babies are also super sensitive to their mothers, so stressing and panicking could make the situation worse. As you observe and develop a routine with your baby, you'll learn to figure out what he or she needs just by the sound of her sobs.
Feelings of Resentment
Looking after a newborn is hard work. It means round-the-clock care, and catering to their every need. But despite the joy that comes from parenting, many new parents admit to experiencing feelings of resentment from time to time, especially in difficult moments. This is not something to feel guilty of, instead remind yourself that hard phases do not last, and that your baby will grow to become more self-reliant as time passes. Cherish the time you have taking care of an innocent, fragile newborn.
Losing The Baby Weight
New moms often feel pressure to lose their added baby weight but find it a challenge get back into a routine of exercise and healthy eating. Particularly during the first year, when your schedule will be unpredictable at most times, the trick is to spread your workouts throughout the day into shorter bursts of exercise. Fitting in 3-4 10 minute workouts a day is much more realistic than finding a 40 minutes block of free time. Try squatting with your baby or taking the stroller out for a pre-dinner walk. For those who prefer the gym, find one that offers child care services.
Self-Doubt
Gaining confidence as a first-time parent may mean doing what you believe to be right for your child in spite of “expert advice” found online. Ultimately, you spend the most time with your baby than anyone else, so trusting your gut when raising your child is part of what builds the relationship and makes you a strong mother. It can always help to get a second opinion from a doctor, friend or relative when in doubt.
Messiness Around The House
With so much time and attention going toward taking care of your baby, sometimes those dirty dishes and laundry get piled up. Consider hiring a contractor to clean your house on occasion if a mess causes you stress out. Or else, you could clean in quick bursts when your little one snoozes.
Marriage Woes
Carving out time to spend with your partner is important for keeping a strong marriage. As hectic and exhausting life can be as new parents, try to set regular date nights where you communicate, and limit talk about baby stuff. You can also keep the romance alive with a nice candlelight dinner or going to see a movie or concert.
Taking care of a newborn is one of the most special and fulfilling experiences of parenthood, so don’t stress and embrace every moment while it lasts!
]]>The research, published in the journal Acta Paediatrica, claimed that babies begin to absorb language from inside the womb at as early as 26 weeks. Just a few hours after birth, babies will be able to distinguish between their mother’s native tongue and foreign languages.
These findings point to the importance for moms to give their babies a foundation for language development by beginning to talk and interact during the third trimester of pregnancy, as well as immediately after birth.
Natural Approach
Learning from a mother’s voice, tone and pronunciation happens naturally for babies, who are sensitive to any stimuli, particularly mom’s voice, which is amplified within her body. In order to best facilitate the development of a fetus’ language skills, it is recommended for mothers to take a natural approach by speaking with her voice, rather than putting earphones on the baby bump and playing music or language tapes.
Speak Often Before and Immediately After Birth
Researchers have found that the brain of a newborn often showed an enhanced reaction to specific words heard while in the womb, and were better able to process and detect any changes to the word thereafter. Parents should be aware, particularly during the final trimester, that the fetus is continuously hearing and learning from them, as well as the outside world, and should speak often to the baby and to each other both during and after birth.
Maintain A Calm, Relaxing Environment
It is also suggested for expectant moms to maintain a calm, stress free environment by talking to their baby in a soothing, relaxing way, and avoid screaming, yelling or any violent language.
Have Confidence
Speak with confidence even when no one else is around. Expectant moms should have confidence that their baby is making some sense of the sounds she is making, and that she is helping the development of her baby’s language skills as grow older.
]]>It’s never too early to start the bonding process and get to know your little one with these tips below:
Touch and Massage Your Belly
A gentle, soothing way to bond with your baby is to touch, pat or massage your belly. Physical contact can be used as a way to communicate and send a signal of love to your baby while they are in the womb. To create a relaxing atmosphere, smooth on a dab of cream or oil, and you can also invite your partner to share in the bonding experience by massaging your bump gently.
For safety reasons, make sure to do this only after the first trimester. You can also use your hands to rub away any feelings of discomfort or smooth out ripples.
Keep a scan of your baby nearby
Pin up your baby’s scan on your bedroom wall or fridge door, or set it up as your phone’s background photo, as a constant reminder that a human being is growing inside your belly. A first scan is usually done at around 10 to 13 weeks to determine your estimated due date. As the fetus develops, 3-D scans will also allow you to see details such as chubby cheeks, or when he or she sucks the thumb. Seeing the unborn baby increases the feeling that the baby actually exists and compels moms to take more responsibility in caring for herself and her baby.
Sing and Talk to Your Baby
Your baby will develop the ability to hear by the second trimester. Listening to your voice while still in the womb will help him or her recognize and feel attached to you once they are born. Try singing and humming along to calming tunes, or get your partner to talk soothingly to your baby bump.
Have a bath
A nice, warm soak is a great way to relax and devote some time to bond with your baby. Run a bath with some essentials oil, light some candles and play soft music to create a calm atmosphere. Take a moment to picture your baby and feel for your baby’s movements if they are past 20 to 24 weeks. Imagine yourself as a mother, cuddling and caring for your baby after he or she is born.
Prenatal bonding is a great way to help you make the huge transition to becoming a parent and providing your newest family member with a loving and safe environment to grow up in.
]]>By 26 weeks, the inner ear of a fetus is fully developed. At this stage, most babies respond to sound stimulation with an increase in heart rate. Many studies have found this change in heart rate is a positive sign that the baby is stimulated by music, and is linked to increased attention, more sound imitation and earlier vocalization in the baby after their birth.
Combat Stress & Promote Development
Pregnancy can be an extremely stressful time especially for first-time mothers, and these high levels of stress have been associated with an increased risk of premature delivery, low birth weight, and behavioral problems in children.
According to Professor Vivette Glover from the Perinatal Psychobiology at Imperial College in London, prenatal stress increases the likelihood of a child developing attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, cognitive delay, anxiousness and depression.
Exposing an unborn baby to music is an effective measure to counter this. Prenatal music helps in stimulating the growth of brain structures and senses, and connects many activated brain areas. Calming music also creates a relaxed atmosphere and can help reduce mom’s stress levels.
Bonding With Mom
A study in 1993 found that babies are able to remember music, voices and sounds after birth, and are particularly responsive to the internal noises and voice of their mother such as their breathing or singing. This can help later on in calming or comforting a restless infant, as they are better able to recognize their mother’s voice. Singing along with music gives the baby an opportunity to hear mom’s voice and form an early bond even before birth.
Sleeping Patterns
Furthermore, Dr Alexandra Lamont from the Music Research Group at the University of Leicester claims that babies who hear the same music that was played while in the womb fall asleep faster and sleep longer than babies who did not hear music. Playing the same music after birth can help establish a better sleeping pattern for a baby, which in turn lets parents get more sleep.
Precautions
Overall, prenatal music positively affects both mom and baby in many ways and is a proactive step moms can take to encourage bonding with her little one and ensure his or her wellbeing. However, mothers who use prenatal music stimulation should be careful not to turn the volume too loud, as this could overstimulate a fetus or possible damage a developing ear. According to Baby Center, the ideal level is around 70 decibels, which is also a comfortable volume for moms to be.
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0-15 Weeks
During the first trimester, at around 7 weeks, your baby should begin to bend slightly, and startle. Although you will not be able to feel these movements yet, they will be visible on an ultrasound. Your baby may also begin to hiccup and move their arms and legs from around week 9.
At 10 weeks, your baby should begin to turn the head and develop facial movements such as opening and closing the jaw, as well as yawning in the womb. By 14 weeks your baby will begin to move the eyes.
16 Weeks
By now, some pregnant women, such as those who are very thin or have previously had children, will feel begin to feel their baby’s movements, but they likely to be missed as the movements can resemble the feeling of passing gas, or a muscle spasm.
20-24 Weeks
Most parents first begin to notice their baby’s movements at around this time. At this stage you will also begin to feel your baby’s activity gradually increase as the weeks go by. The first movement may feel like a flutter, known as quickening. Some babies are more lively during the day, while some will kick and move more in the evenings. This is a chance to begin to get to know your baby’s unique pattern of activity.
24-28 Weeks
At around this time you may begin to notice when your baby gets hiccups, which will feel like rhythmic, jerking movements. As the amniotic sac will contain around 26 oz at this stage, your baby will have plenty of space to freely move around. You may begin to notice them responding to noises and jump at sudden loud sounds.
29 Weeks
As your baby grows and becomes more cramped in the womb, they will begin to make smaller, more definite movements that can be felt on the outside. This is a good time for your partner to feel the baby kicking and makes for great bonding moments.
32 Weeks
At this stage your baby’s movements will plateau but should not reduce until the time of birth. Some of the kicks and jabs may be strong enough to take your breathe away.
36-40 Weeks
You should be feeling consistent movement throughout the day, consisting mostly of jabs from the arms and legs, and possibly painful kicks to your ribs. Alert your doctor if you notice any significant reduction in movement. Your baby should take up the final, head-down position for delivery!
]]>"My doctor explained that it was completely normal for it to sound like galloping horses and that it wasn't hurting my baby in any way."
The speed of a fetal heart rate often surprises new parents when it first becomes detectable by a baby Doppler. At about 9 weeks of age, a normal fetal heart rate will peak at an average of 175 beats per minute (BPM), which is around twice as fast as that of his or her mother’s. From then it decelerates to around 150 BPM for the middle term of the pregnancy.
Abnormal Fetal Heart Rate
An abnormal fetal heart rate early on in the pregnancy can be an indication of fetal distress, abnormal fetal development, or an imminent miscarriage. This may be caused by heart problems, a compressed umbilical cord, or an insufficient fetal oxygen supply. An improper fetal position can also lead to abnormalities in fetal heart rate.
Should your baby have a slow or irregular heart rate, your doctor or physician will frequently and intensely monitor the fetus. In some cases, the doctor may perform internal fetal monitoring, which involves attaching an electrode directly to the baby’s head through the cervical opening.
Natural Variations in Heart Rate
It is perfectly normal for your baby’s heart rate to naturally fluctuate, just as an adult’s does. Day to day activities including movement or sleep can cause variations in the BPM. During check ups, your doctor may even stimulate fetal movement to see if heart rate slightly increases immediately, as this is a sign that the fetus is developing normally.
The normal heart rate of a fetus from when it begins to beat (around 5 weeks), to the end of the first trimester, will increase, then decrease steadily over this period, as mapped out in the table below:
Fetal Age |
Normal Fetal Heart Rate |
5 weeks |
Begins at 80 BPM, ends at 103 BPM |
6 weeks |
Begins at 103 BPM, ends at 126 BPM |
7 weeks |
Begins at 126 BPM, ends at 149 BPM |
8 weeks |
Begins at 149 BPM, ends at 172 BPM |
9 weeks |
155-195 BPM, average 175 BPM |
10-14 weeks |
120-180 BPM, average 150 BPM |
15-20 weeks |
140 BPM with 5-15 BPM variation |
21 weeks - Term |
130 BPM with 5-15 BPM variation |
Little Martin’s Drawer’s upcoming product, a handheld digital fetal Doppler, is designed to be used in the comfort of your own home, providing a safe way to listen to the sounds of your unborn child. This is also a great way to develop a bond and feel close to your baby, but please note that its use should not substitute regular prenatal care by a doctor or medical practitioner.
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Benefits of using a fetal Doppler
Aside from providing the amazing experience of hearing your unborn child’s heart beating, a fetal doppler can also reduce anxiety and give comfort, particularly for women who have previously experienced a difficult pregnancy. The ability to check for your baby’s heartbeat at any desired time, while in the comfort of your own home, provides both convenience and a peace of mind to expectant parents.
Additionally, sharing and listening to recordings of your baby’s heartbeat in the womb helps to create special moments and develops the bond between you and other family members such as siblings, partners, parents or grandparents. You can even send sound clips to distant friends or relatives via email.
Are fetal dopplers safe?
According to the British Medical Ultrasound society, there is no evidence that baby dopplers cause any harm when used according to guidelines. They work by using very low levels of power, and so they can be used over a long period of time.
However, identifying a baby’s heartbeat with a doppler can be a little difficult for first time users, which could possibly lead to needless worry if unable to locate the heartbeat, or a false reassurement as the sound of pumping blood in the placenta or through the mother’s veins can possibly be mistaken for a heartbeat.
Therefore, it is highly advised that the personal use of fetal dopplers at home should not become a substitute for regular prenatal care by a medical practitioner.
Using a fetal doppler
When using a fetal doppler at home, begin by locating the position of your baby with your hand, then place and adjust the probe to find the optimum audio signal. Keep in mind that their heartbeat will be much faster than an adult’s.
Also be sure to properly maintain the product by adhering to safety guidelines, and usage and cleaning procedures. Read the user manual prior to use in order to keep you and your baby safe.
Little Martin’s Drawer is planning to launch its very own FDA-approved fetal doppler to the market by November this year.
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