Labor of Love: 5 Tips for Staying Calm when Your Baby is On the Way

 

When it comes to labor and delivery, the thought of remaining calm may seem impossible. You’ve waited for this day for at least 40 weeks and between the excitement of finally meeting your child and the fear of pain during childbirth, staying collected seems to be the last response possible in this situation. Yet remaining calm will help your labor and delivery progress more smoothly and allow doctors and nurses to better attend to your needs. Keep reading for a few tips to help you stay calm when your baby is on the way:

 

Take a Warm Bath or Shower

If your labor pains begin at home, your first impulse will be to rush into the hospital. If possible, you should take this time to finish packing and take a soothing bath or shower before leaving. Please note—baths are not considered safe if your water broke, due to the potential of infection. Also pregnant women may lack balance so ask your partner to help you enter and exit the bathtub.

If you do choose to head straight into the hospital, ask your nurse if you can use the shower before your labor intensifies. Water is extremely soothing during labor and can actually help decrease the pain of contractions.

 

Listen to your Favorite Music

Whether you’re at home timing your contractions or in your hospital room, listening to your favorite songs will help you remain calm throughout the labor and delivery process. Put this chore on your to-do list beforehand and have a great song list ready to go for this special day.

 

Walk, Walk, Walk

This is another activity you can do at home or in the hospital (depending upon your nursing staff.) Walking is an excellent way to calm frazzled nerves and it also helps shift baby lower into the birthing canal. Exercise is a natural way to lower stress levels and this low impact activity is ideal.

 

Try Patterned Breathing

Whether you learned a breathing technique in Lamaze class or through your midwife or doctor, patterned breathing is noted for its ability to help women relax, and stay calm during intense labor and deliveries. Another perk to patterned breathing is increased oxygen flow to both you and your unborn child.

 

Medications

You may not think of pain medications as being calming, but the fact remains often it’s the fear of pain as well as the actual pain itself that causes intense emotions during the labor and delivery process. While you should already have an open line of communication with your doctor in regard to pain medication beforehand, during the birth process remain open and honest with the nursing staff in regard to your needs. A Zofran birth injury lawyer suggests that you make arrangements for any medications before the actual delivery day so that you are fully aware of any side effects or risks. There are multiple options in regard to pain management and even if you ask for medicine to take the edge off labor pains, this may help you regain your calm and endure the rest of the delivery.

 

The day your baby is born is both exciting and a little bit scary due to the unknowns. Remaining collected as you face labor and delivery is best for both you and your unborn child. Try some of the above techniques during the birthing process and allow them to help you remain calm as you deliver your baby into the world.

 

Categories: Baby, delivery, labor, pregnancy

Kate Winslet: Not Fair to Put Pressure on New Moms to Lose Weight

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Kate Winslet insists there is nothing bad if a mother takes time to shed her post baby weight.

 

The Titanic star, who gave birth to a son 15 months ago, believes the media has created an unhealthy trend for shedding baby weight as soon as possible.

 

“The media do rush to put women on the cover of a magazine, or even grab a paparazzi shot of them, eight weeks post-baby and say, ‘Oh look, eight weeks post-baby, doesn’t she look amazing?’ You know, looking amazing eight weeks post-baby is having a belly that still looks like you’ve got a baby inside it, because guess what – that’s what actually happens,” the 39-year-old actress said on a US TV show Extra.

 

“I think it’s not right and it’s not fair. Having a baby is amazing and not fitting into your jeans, it just doesn’t matter and that time of being at home with that little newborn and not having to wear a pair of jeans or slip into a red carpet dress, it’s so fantastic and I wanted it to go on and on forever,” she added.

 

Categories: Baby, baby weight, kate winslet, nbsp, post, post baby, weeks, weeks post, weight

Six Worries Women Have About Sex After Pregnancy

Having sex again after you’ve had a baby can be a concern for a lot of women, as there are many fears about what the experience will be like. According to sexual health and wellness expert Macki West, founder of Cool Mom Tips, there’s ‘no need to fret, most of us are scared to dive back in [to sex]. Some common thoughts are: Will my vagina feel loose? Will it hurt? I feel gross and unattractive. Being touched is the last thing I want right now. All of these thoughts are all totally normal.’ That said, while it’s normal to have such thoughts, some of them are unfounded. There are many myths surrounding sex after pregnancy, so let’s debunk a few of them:

 

1. Your Vagina Will Be Loose: ‘No it won’t,’ says West. ‘Your partner will not be “tossing a hot dog down a hallway”. If that were the case then there would never be kid number two. My husband is honest with me and I straight up asked him if there was a difference. He told me I feel just as tight, but that women actually feel differently all the time, from one sexual encounter to the next. I trust my husband and since he keeps coming back for more, I know I’m just fine down there.’

 

2. You’ve Had A C-section So Sex Won’t Hurt: West asserts, ‘That’s a flat out lie. Ok, I’ve never had a C-section, but plenty of my friends have and they have experienced just as much if not more discomfort post baby.’

 

3. You Don’t Need Birth Control: West advises, ‘Unless you want to have your babies very, very close together, you do need birth control, even if you are breastfeeding. You will ovulate BEFORE your first period so it could be too late before you decide to use a contraceptive. Talk with your doctor before giving birth about your birth control options. If you are breastfeeding your options are limited to condoms, IUD, or mini pill. Another myth is that you won’t get your period while you are breastfeeding. I did with my first two kids and I’m just waiting for the old period to rear it’s ugly head this time around.’

 

4. You’ll Be as Dry as the Sahara: Unfortunately, there’s some truth to this one. West explains, ‘Your hormones are all wacked and your oestrogen levels are low which means there’s less natural lubrication in your vagina. Make sure to have lots of foreplay, read: oral sex or use a store bought lubricant. If you are not comfortable buying lubricant, just get some online.’

 

5. Sex Won’t Be as Good as it was Before: ‘Some women actually have more intense orgasms post baby,’ says West. ‘It’s true. It has been known that some women have sex within a week of giving birth and enjoy it immensely. I’m not one of them and I don’t feel badly about it one bit. It takes me a few months to get back into enjoying it and that’s OK. Once the baby is sleeping through the night you will have the opportunity to get your sexy back.’

 

6. Touching is Too Much: ‘Many women feel over-touched,’ West admits. ‘Oh yes, we do. Just the other night my husband decided to “enjoy” my breasts. He may have enjoyed it, but I had to stop him and gently tell him that I’ve got my fill of breast touching and nipple sucking. He laughed and totally understood and moved on to something we would both enjoy. With all this baby holding and breastfeeding and intimacy with your baby, sometimes it’s hard to turn that off and turn on the sexual intimacy. Or you are just touched out and would prefer to be in bed with no human contact, I’ve had those nights.’

Categories: Baby, Birth Control, c-section, feel, giving birth, Myths, nbsp, post baby, sex after pregnancy, sex won, west, Women

How to Use Acupuncture As Part of Your Prenatal Care

Pregnancy is a very exciting time for any woman, but it is also a time when her wellness and wellbeing become paramount. As well as following your doctor’s advice, you should look at complementary therapies, which can go a long way to helping you mitigate the discomforts that come alongside pregnancy. Whilst many women dismiss these unpleasant side effects of pregnancy as normal (things like swollen ankles, sore backs etc.), there are actually things that you can do to help improve the situation, and acupuncture is one of them. Acupuncture is perfectly safe, and so there is really no need for you to struggle on valiantly.

 

This is particularly important, as a recent study shows that stress during the prenatal period, including depression and anxiety, can have a negative outcome for both mothers and children, and can lead to things such as preeclampsia, preterm birth and even future obesity and risk of disease in the infant.

 

Chinese medicine has been used safely for centuries, and treatments with herbs and acupuncture have been contributing to the wellbeing of many for generations. There are suitable acupuncture treatments for all phases of pregnancy, although the treatments change depending on how far along the mother is.

 

During the first trimester, acupuncture is usually used to help prevent miscarriage, as this is the most dangerous trimester for pregnancy loss. It is also used to help the mother feel better, as the first three months can be a time when the pregnancy drains the woman of energy and also causes nausea, headaches, constipation and other problems.

 

In the second trimester, the baby is growing a lot, and acupuncture can be used to help negate some of the digestive effects that this causes. During the third trimester, when the baby is storing fat and the body has expanded tremendously, acupuncture can be used to help prepare for birth. Treatments can help relax the uterus, cause the baby to turn the right way and prepare the cervix for a natural labour.

Categories: acupuncture, Baby, nbsp, pregnancy, Treatments, trimester

Could Breastfeeding be Healthier for Your Baby and You?

Breastfeeding is the natural way to feed your baby, but is it the healthiest? There are a number of health benefits to feeding your baby with breast milk, not just because it is packed with vital nutrients for your child’s development. It keeps their health in check and prevents them from catching illnesses, but it could also be good for you too. Studies show that it could lower your risk of postnatal depression and also prevent some cancers. Here are some of the main reasons why breastfeeding is the best way to nurture your baby, as well as helping you to stay healthy.

1 – You can increase the emotional bond

There is a distinct bonding experience between a mother and child during breastfeeding that can’t really be replicated. It strengthens that natural bond you have with your baby and also increases the closeness between you, both physically and emotionally. Getting your baby to latch on in the early stages can be difficult, but a nursing pillow can help with this.

2 – It can protect your baby from illness

Studies carried out by the World Health Organisation found that in children from around the globe, those who had been breastfed suffered from a reduced number of diseases, such as ear infections, stomach viruses and respiratory infections. The study also found that infants who have been breastfed early show a decreased risk of infant mortality between the ages of birth to one year.

3 – Helps you to lose weight

This is one for the mums – breastfeeding can help you lose your birth weight! This is because breastfeeding releases the hormone oxytocin which helps the woman’s abdomen shrink to its original size that it was before the pregnancy. It even helps you to burn 500 calories a day, helping you to shed those extra pounds you put on when you were carrying your baby.

4 – It increases intelligence

Research has found that there is a strong link between breastfeeding and your baby’s cognitive development. In children who breastfed for longer than six months, the IQ level was 3.8 points higher than a bottle-fed baby. There have also been studies which show that these children also have higher scores on reading and maths. This is thought to be connected to the emotional bond built up between mother and baby, which promotes intelligence.

5 – It lowers stress and the risk of postnatal depression

The breastfeeding technique could help improve the health of the mum as well as the baby, as studies have found that it can lower stress levels and reduce the risk of postnatal depression. This is because it releases hormones which promote a sense of calm and relaxation. Stress can lead to postnatal depression, so breastfeeding could help to reduce this risk.

6 – It may reduce cancer

Alongside the general health benefits to your baby’s health, it could also help to lower the risk of cancer in infants as well as you. Studies suggest that it could lower the chance of developing breast and ovarian cancers, and the longer the women breastfed for, the lower their risk was.

7 – It offers great savings to you and the environment

One of the main blessings to breastfeeding, aside from those to you and your baby’s health, is that it’s free! Formula and bottles add up and can be expensive, so breastfeeding is a great and natural solution to what to feed your baby. It’s also the best way to ensure your child gets all the nutrients they need to stay healthy.

Categories: Baby, Breastfeeding, emotional bond, health, Health Benefits, Postnatal Depression, risk, stay healthy, studies, Women

Stay-At-Home Mum? Try These Exercise Tips

As a stay-at-home mum, you’ll understand that your days are pretty packed on a regular basis. From changing nappies and preparing meals, to nursing and running around after your little ones, it’s hard to find time for yourself let alone find time to exercise in between it all. Stay-at-home mums work just as hard as those who head out to work each day, and because of this, it can be hard to get out of the ‘no time to exercise’ trap. Luckily, there are ways to combine the two and weave workouts into your daily routine. Regular workouts are important to your wellbeing and mental clarity, so if you’re desperate for fitness but can’t seem to find time in the day to head to the gym, being creative with your time is the best way to get around the problem.

Exercise with your kids

If your kids are old enough, it can be fun for both of you to exercise together. Why not go cycling in your local park or rollerblading? Hiking makes for a really great family activity that young and old alike can enjoy, and will also keep you all in shape too. Alternatively, why not create a fitness course in your garden with push-up stations and skipping ropes for a really great activity that kids will love.

Invest in a jogging pram or a ‘child trailer’ for your bike

When you’re adding the weight of your child and a piece of equipment to your workout, you know you’re going to feel the benefits! All that added effort will result in you toning up even quicker, as well as meaning you won’t need to ask for a babysitting favour in order to do your workout. They’re relatively easy to find and not too expensive, which may work out more cost effective than some other options.

Join a gym with childcare facilities

If you would really like to join a gym in order to stay motivated and benefit from the facilities, why not join a gym with a creche or kids club? It means you can enjoy a full exercise session without worrying about your little ones, and some gyms even offer kids exercise classes which they’ll love!

Opt for parent-baby yoga classes

Yoga is a really relaxing and child-friendly exercise – many locations offer the chance for mother and baby to enjoy the benefits together with strength and stamina-building classes available. Yoga helps to reduce stress, increases flexibility and gives you yet another chance to bond with your baby.

Try an at-home exercise DVD

If you’d rather workout in the comfort of your own home, you may benefit from a DVD option. There are so many exercises available in this format, from Pilates to aerobics and even kickboxing, so why not play around with a few different types? It can be a fun and cost-effective way to mix up your routine and will mean you can fit in exercising around your daily routine.

Improvise!

If you miss a workout, don’t worry about it – sometimes it’s more about making the effort. After all, something is better than nothing. Why not head out into the garden with the baby monitor attached to your jogging bottoms while your baby is enjoying a nap for some lunges and a few minutes on the skipping rope? The most important thing is to make exercise a priority and ensure that you don’t get caught up in excuses – it’s important for your health that you make time.

Categories: Baby, cost effective, Daily Routine, exercise, fitness, Home, home mum, Kids, mums, time

Teething Baby: Five Things You Need To Know To Help

Teething is one of the most difficult parts of your baby’s first year, and it is often very trying for parents, too. Your baby will likely be fussy and irritable during this time. A fever and decreased appetite might also occur while your little one is teething. While you might feel helpless at times, know that you can help your baby. Here are five things you need to know to help:

 

Ready or not, here they come!

Is your baby unusually cranky? Have a peek at those gums. The first tooth might appear around three months or anytime afterwards. According to cleaning dentist Joel E. Rothman, your baby’s first dental exam should be scheduled once the first tooth emerges. Your baby will get a simple exam and cleaning at this appointment.

 

There will be discomfort

You need to know that your baby could have a variety of discomforts while teething. Excessive drooling is often the first symptom that parents notice. Sleeping problems are common, as are gum swelling and sensitivity. Ask your doctor about using a pain reliever, such as Tylenol.

 

Fever can happen

A fever of up to 101 degrees can happen when your baby is teething. Some people think this is because of gum swelling, but no one knows the true cause. Ask your doctor about using a fever reducer when your baby is teething. If your baby has a fever above 101 degrees, call your doctor.

 

Nursing is great

Don’t stop breastfeeding when your baby’s teeth start coming in. The comfort you’ve provided your baby through nursing is especially important now, and those antibodies are still needed. Even if your baby has shown biting behavior, which is common during teething, you aren’t likely to be bitten! If baby does nip you, just let him or her know that’s a no-no.

 

Baby needs to chomp

As mentioned above, your baby will likely have the urge to chew on things as those first teeth are emerging. This is a perfectly normal behavior, and your baby will get relief from chewing. Try giving your little one a teething ring, a clean finger, a toothbrush, a frozen washcloth or stuffed toy to gnaw on. If your baby spits one thing out, try another.

 

Once it begins, teething can happen on and off for a year or more. While it can be stressful for you and baby at times, you can help sooth your baby by remembering the five things listed above. Remember, your little one might be hurting and otherwise not feeling well. Provide your little one with dental care, comfort and plenty of things to chew on to help make teething an easier time for you both!

Categories: Baby, discomfort, fever, gum swelling, happen, nbsp, teething

Sucking Your Child’s Dummy Could Protect them From Eczema

When it comes to family wellness, do you follow the hygiene hypothesis? If you do, you may be guarding your baby’s wellbeing against asthma and eczema. This is according to researchers at the University of Gothenburg, who say that parents who “clean” their baby’s dummy with their mouth improve their baby’s health with regards to these conditions. At 18 months, babies who had come into repeated contact with their parents’ saliva were 12% less likely to have asthma and 37% less likely to develop eczema.

You may have been advised to soak your baby’s dummy in equal parts white vinegar and water, and, each time it hits the floor, to wash it in hot, soapy water. However, the “hygiene hypothesis,” posits that when kids are overly sterilised, they never learn how to fight off pathogens. Because the bacteria you pass on to your children, whether through sucking their dummy or kissing, are basically harmless, you may afford your children increased immunity, at least temporarily, from allergic diseases. Therefore, the study “Pacifier Cleaning Practices and Risk of Allergy Development”, which was published in the journal Paediatrics, sought to see who was right.

The researchers specifically targeted families in which allergic disease was prevalent, and, every six months, interviewed the new parents of 184 infants about their pacifier cleaning processes. The Swedish parents were also asked to keep journals tracking their behaviour, and the team of investigators collected the infants’ saliva in order to analyse their oral microbes. The babies were tested for an array of allergies at 18 and 36 months.

The results of the study revealed that the 18-month-olds of parents who sucked dummies to clean them were 12% less likely to have asthma, 37% less likely to have eczema, compared to children whose parents rinsed or boiled their dummies. Moreover, the children of “saliva parents” appeared less likely to be sensitive to airborne and food allergens. However, when the infants were all tested again at 36 months, there were no longer any significant differences in terms of asthma or allergen sensitivity. Yet, there was still a distinction in eczema susceptibly, with the children of parents who sucked dummies being 51% less likely to have eczema.

Categories: Baby, Children, dummy, Eczema, hygiene hypothesis, pacifier cleaning, Parents, Research, saliva, sucked dummies

Gender Difference: Is it Simply a Matter of Choice?

When you’re having a baby, it’s not uncommon for people to have a preference for the sexual selection of the unborn baby. Obviously, the main thing that all new parents are interested in is the wellness and wellbeing of the baby, but secondary to that, it’s quite common for parents to long specifically for a little son or daughter.

 

Fuelling this are all kinds of old wives’ tales about how to influence the gender of your baby. Some say that if you want a boy you need to eat meat, for example, and if you want a girl you need to eat lots of sweet foods. There are times of the month that are supposed to be better for conceiving each gender, and positions that you should use.

 

In these modern times, there are also ways to scientifically choose a specific gender. There are clinics that can screen fertilised embryos to see if they have genetic diseases, and these clinics can also pick up whether an embryo is male or female, allowing parents (in theory at least) to choose the gender of their unborn baby.

 

What many parents don’t realise, however, is that whilst they may be able to choose the biological sex of their baby, they are not actually able to pick the gender. Sex is determined by chromosome alignment and type of genitalia, but gender is a social construct, meaning a state of being male and female.

 

Societies have different rules about how men and women should act, dress and behave. People who don’t fit into the societal norms for gender behaviour can make others uncomfortable (such as men who like to dress up in women’s clothes). As a result of these societal rules, gender identity is not well understood. Some think that gender is fixed at a very young age, whilst others think that it remains fluid for a long time.

Categories: Baby, Gender, identity, nbsp, Parents, pick, Sex, unborn baby

Daddy Depression: How Men Can Develop the Baby Blues

You may think that postnatal depression (PND) is a condition reserved for female wellness, but recent research has shown that PND can occur in men, often as the result of the man’s partner suffering from it. Coping with your partner’s depression can have a huge impact on your own mental health, causing you to feel overwhelmed, isolated, and even stigmatised. This can take its toll on other aspect of your life, including your work, your relationship and your parenting, so it’s incredibly important to get yourself checked out, and get the help you need, if you think PND may be an issue for you.

 

As your partner has had the child living and growing inside of her, she has a deeper inborn connection to the child and so can devote her whole focus on that, instead of on you. Up until now, it has only been the two of you and so not getting used to the lack of attention can be a contributing factor in male PND. Plus, you may have been looking forward to more physical intimacy after the pregnancy, but giving birth lowers your partner’s sex drive considerably, as does the strain of being a new mother. This can make you feel rejected and unwanted, and even blame your new baby for the distance between you and your partner. You may also experience PND after seeing the immense pain and trouble your partner went through during the delivery.

 

In men, PND can present with a wide range of symptoms:

• Feelings of isolation or rejection


• Mood swings


• Lethargy


• Panic attacks


• Loss of sex drive


• Irritability


• Hopelessness


• Lack of motivation


• Difficulty in concentration


• Lack of bonding with the new born


• Somatic complains, such as headaches and stomach pains


• Work-related problems


• Substance abuse

 

In order to deal with PND, you need professional help as well as the support of your family members. For this reason, it’s important that you let your family know if you think your well-being is affected by PND, as otherwise they may become to wrapped up in your new baby and its mother. Your partner should make sure that you are just as involved in the child’s welfare and upbringing as she is, and you should also strive to make time for each other so the “couple you” doesn’t become lost in the “parent you”. Consult a doctor for more information.

Categories: Baby, Causes, Child, lack, men, nbsp, partner, Postnatal Depression, Sex Drive

Unwanted Pregnancy? Find Out the Options Available to You

More often than not, pregnancy is presented as this wonderful time in which you’re glowing and excited for motherhood. For many women, this happens to be the case. However, finding out that you are pregnant may give rise to very different feelings for different people. You may be happy and excited about it, or scared and uncertain as to what to do. The important thing to remember is that all of these feelings are normal. The decisions you now have to make take an understandable toll on your emotional wellness. If you are pregnant, you have four choices to consider. You can keep the pregnancy and have the baby – which we’ll visit a bit more later on – you can keep the pregnancy and give the baby up for adoption, you can keep the pregnancy and give the baby into foster care or you can have an abortion.

 

With regards to this latter option, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. By the time they are 45 years old, one in three women in the UK will have an abortion. If it’s not possible for you to have the baby, you can contact your GP or sexual health clinic. All of your treatment will be completely free and confidential, even if you are under 16. While it’s legal to have an abortion at any time before you reach week 24 of your pregnancy, it’s far better for your wellbeing if you contact the services as early as possible, as this means you’ll have more options. If you do decide to have an abortion, you may need to attend more than one appointment at the clinic, although, in most cases, the abortion itself will be carried out as a day procedure. An initial appointment will give you the opportunity to talk through the procedure and your choices. The procedure may then be carried out on a different day.

 

Depending on how far along you are, you will have either a medical or a surgical abortion. Early on in a pregnancy – up to nine weeks – you can have a medical abortion in which you take two sets of pills over two visits (24 or 48 hours apart). You take the tablets orally on your first visit, and then internally on your second visit, and this causes the pregnancy to pass out of your body. With this kind of abortion, it’s common to experience discomfort, very strong cramps and heavy bleeding, which normally lasts for approximately three to five hours until the pregnancy has passed. However, it’s more common to have a surgical abortion, in which gentle suction is used to empty the uterus. The procedure, which only lasts for five to 10 minutes, can be done under either local anaesthetic or general anaesthetic. Regardless of the method of abortion you use, it’s vital that you talk to someone at the clinic about your contraceptive choices afterwards. Most types of contraception can be started immediately after you have had the procedure.

 

However, if you decide to continue your pregnancy, you need to look after your wellbeing – and your baby’s – as soon as possible. This means you need to visit your GP as soon as possible to begin your antenatal care (which is a term used for care leading up to the birth of the baby). Your doctor will arrange all the scans and midwife appointments you need, as well as giving you plenty of information about how to care for yourself and your growing baby during pregnancy. This will include avoiding drugs and alcohol, avoiding smoking and cigarette smoking, healthy eating, regular exercise and taking folic acid during the first twelve weeks of pregnancy.

Categories: abortion, antenatal care, Baby, care, pregnancy, procedure, surgical abortion

How to Enjoy Great Sex After the Birth of Your Baby

For many women, the mental and emotional impact of going through childbirth can have a negative effect on their sexual wellness and wellbeing. They may be in pain, or fear that intercourse will cause them pain. They are also often stressed (due to having a very small baby) and don’t feel much of a desire to have sex. Gynaecologists often advice that new mothers to not have sex for six weeks after the birth, in order to give their genital tissues time to heal. After that time, however, it is perfectly normal to want to recover some kind of intimacy with your partner.

 

The first time you have sex after the birth of a baby, take it very slowly. Men need to understand that women’s bodies have changed, and that their genitals may be still recovering from the immense task that they have performed. Men should be supportive of their partners, and be willing to be gentle and tender with them.

 

Women should also remember that they are their husband or partner’s chosen sexual partner. It is too easy to feel unattractive or undesirable after going through childbirth, but they should be aware (and men should make them aware) that they are still completely desired by their partner.

 

Some women may (understandably) fear getting pregnant again too soon. In order to remove this as a possibility, look into suitable methods of contraception well ahead of any sexual encounter. There are various methods available to men and women, but mini pills are generally advised as being the safest method for women who are breastfeeding.

 

When women are breastfeeding, they should also be aware that not only does the hormone prolactin suppress sexual desire, but it also causes vaginal dryness. Some kind of artificial lubrication may, therefore, be useful in order to make the experience as straightforward and comfortable as possible.

Categories: Baby, birth, nbsp, partner, partner nbsp, Sex, sexual, time, Women

Ways to Cope With an Infant’s Death

Losing a child can cause deep grief and sorrow. It gets very difficult for most of the parents to get back to their normal life, post a shocking death, especially of an infant. It is indeed the most devastating experience of your life and can cause a lot of mental stress. But things cannot be reversed. Life must go on and you have to make peace with yourself. No one can take your baby’s place but you need to ask yourself if this hampering your personal life and relationships. Look around yourself, is your spouse doing well? Have you spoken to them about what you are going through mentally? Are you having too many questions in your mind?

 

Why is no one talking about my baby’s death? What do I do?

It is necessary that you speak up about the tragedy. Nothing can be changed but you got to take care of your health. Speak to your close ones about all that you had planned for you little angel. Cry it out. Find support outside your house. Meet parents who have faced a similar situation and share your thoughts with them. Try to understand how they are coping up with the loss. You can meet them directly or you can also look out for websites on the same topic. Meeting a professional councellor will also help you recover.

 

How do I make others understand what I am going through, emotionally?

Have a conversation with your near and dear ones who understand you. Let them know about your feelings and thoughts. Your family and friends will lend you the support you need the most right now. Avoid getting into an argument with anyone. If you feel a specific family member does not understand what you are experiencing then avoid having a fight. You can explain them that whatever you are going through, is very difficult for you to make them understand.

 

If in your case, you continued the pregnancy term knowing that the baby might not survive, or discontinued a life support system for you ill child, don’t be judgmental about it. Don’t be harsh on yourself for taking the heart wrenching decision; it’s not your fault. If anyone else in the family does not understand the intensity of the situation, let them know what you have faced so far. A councellor’s advice would be a great help in situations like these.

 

I’m emotionally on a roller coaster ride. Am I normal?

A have faced a huge loss in your life. You might be experiencing multiple feelings from anger to guilt. There are hundred questions unanswered. Many parents have memorial service for their late child. You can hold a funeral; assemble all the things that are connected to your baby – favourite toy, a blanket, photographs etc. Remember that you have to leave the trauma behind and look forward to new things in life. All that you are going through is normal but temporary. These emotions cant stay with you forever. Pay attention to your health. Follow a healthy diet and an exercise routine daily. Engage your mind in things that will take of the load, maybe for a little while. Stay around family and friends.

 

How do I go on with my life? The future is not what I thought.

Certainly you are unable to indulge yourself in any other things besides thinking about why this happened to you. As time will pass by, you need to find solace in different things. Don’t ignore the world. You have to learn to live your life again. When you feel you are ready, participate in family activities and get socially involved in something that will give you peace.

Categories: Baby, Child, cope, Death, Family, infant, life, nbsp, understand

Sex and Pregnancy: What Do You Need to Know?

If you’re trying to conceive, or you’re already pregnant, you’re probably taking steps to look after your wellbeing. However, one thing you may not have considered is that you need to take care of your sexual health. Many sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can go undetected for years, which means your wellness may be affected without you realising, and this can affect your baby. Some STIs, such as gonorrhoea, can cause infertility while others, like syphilis, can be passed onto your baby during pregnancy. Therefore, it’s a very wise idea to get tested and treated for STIs before you become pregnant, and even if you’re pregnant already.

 

When you’re trying to get pregnant, you obviously stop using contraception. So, if you or your partner has an STI without realising, you or he might pass it on, which can affect your fertility or your future baby’s wellbeing. This is why it’s absolutely essential to get tested for STIs if you’re thinking of starting a family with someone. If you have contracted HIV or syphilis, you can pass these infections onto your baby, either in the womb or at birth. However, if your doctor knows that you have an STI, he or she can take steps to help protect your unborn child. You may still be able to have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy child.

 

If you have an infection that cannot be completely cured, such as HIV or herpes, your doctor can still lessen your chances of passing on the virus to the baby – as long as you get tested! This doesn’t just mean that you need to prevent passing on the virus during pregnancy or when giving birth – although that is vitally important – but you may also need to take extra care to make sure you don’t pass any STIs to the child after birth. You should speak to your doctor or midwife you about any precautions you might need to take. Moreover, you can still catch an STI during pregnancy, which can cause problems for both you and your child. You might pass on this infection during pregnancy, labour, or during childhood, so tell your midwife or doctor immediately if you are pregnant and suspect you may have caught an STI.

 

However, if you and your partner are both STI-free, you can enjoy sex together even when you’re pregnant. Some couples can be worried about having sex during pregnancy, but some women find that pregnancy increases their sex drive for a time and both men and women often find pregnancy quite sexy. After all, this is the last chance you’re going to have to be alone and intimate together before a little interruption comes along, so you’d better grab it before you’re stuck changing nappies and too-tired for foreplay. The baby is well-protected in the womb, and won’t have any idea as to what’s going on. It’s good to have a chat to your partner about your turn-ons and turn-offs, as these can change as your hormones change during pregnancy.

 

Plus, when the baby is ready to be born, having sex can help get labour started (as anyone who’s seen Friends can attest). There are substances called prostaglandins in semen which help to soften your cervix, while nipple stimulation causes your body to release hormones that encourage your womb to contract. However, if you’ve had a miscarriage or early labour in the past, you may need to speak to your midwife or doctor about when it might be safest to avoid sex. Also, when having sex, you should still use a condom or practice safe sex alternatives unless you’re both 100% sure you’re free of STIs.

Categories: Baby, conception, doctor, pregnancy, Pregnant, STIs

Pregnancy: How to Stay Fit Throughout

Staying fit is important at any time, but none more so than when you’re pregnant. Your body is undergoing numerous changes and there are things you can do to ensure that you stay fit and healthy while it changes. The basics are the trinity – a good diet, regular exercise and getting plenty of sleep. These three things are vital for a safe pregnancy, and will ensure that both you and your baby stay healthy. They will also keep your immune system strong, to help you fight off illnesses and diseases. You don’t really need to eat for two when you’re pregnant, but what you eat certainly counts for double. This means getting all of the nutrients you and your baby needs through your diet. Your GP may advise that you take a supplement as well, to ensure that no nutrient gaps are left unfilled. Plenty of fruit and vegetables will keep you topped up on vitamins and minerals, and in particular you should aim to eat a rich array of leafy green vegetables – these are loaded with folic acid and will prevent birth defects in your baby. Taking the extra time to prepare your meals rather than relying on ready meals will really make the difference to your health. While you can still have chocolate and sweets during your pregnancy, try to limit your intake of sugar to stay as healthy as possible – too much can affect your blood sugar levels.

 

Many women find that they become lethargic during pregnancy, but this is usually just your body’s way of indicating that you need to slow down a little. It’s important that you get plenty of rest when you’re carrying your child, but keeping active is also vital. So as not to overdo it, rely on exercises such as yoga, aerobics, swimming and walking. Swimming is the best of these, as it provides minimal impact on your joints but works all of the muscles at the same time. If you can’t go swimming, a home DVD is a great way of practicing yoga in the comfort of your own home. There are many pregnancy-related classes available now that focus on light and gentle exercises that don’t put too much pressure on your body. If you’re looking for such a class, check your local gym for information on what they can offer you. Just don’t exert yourself too much and don’t attempt to diet or lose weight when you’re pregnant – your main focus should be on staying healthy and keeping your baby as safe as possible. If you want to ease yourself into the new routine of exercise, why not try walking a few times a week? It’s free, doesn’t put your body under too much strain, and can be done anywhere. Begin by walking around the block a couple of times to begin with, then build from there to brisker or lengthier walks.

A lot of women get rather frustrated during this time, as they feel uncomfortable with their growing size. Internet shopping and new maternity clothes have made it easier for women now to feel and look good during their pregnancy, so you don’t have to worry about not fitting into your regular clothes – you can create a new wardrobe while you carry your child! It can be a great way of getting over the body image issues that a lot of women face. The important thing to remember is that you’re carrying out an important role in carrying your child, and this time is sacred.

Categories: Baby, body, exercise, Healthy, pregnancy, stay fit, time, Women

What Foods Should You Avoid When You Are Pregnant?

When you are pregnant, one of your biggest health concerns may be to do with what foods you can eat and how they may affect your unborn baby. When you are pregnant, your wellness and the wellbeing of your unborn baby can be adversely affected by certain types of food.

 

Food cravings are a classic ‘side effect’ of pregnancy, and these are very normal and healthy, and can be given in to (whether they are peanut butter and pickles for breakfast or chocolate and cornflakes in the middle of the night). Some cravings can even be useful as they can indicate a nutrient or vitamin that is lacking in the pregnant woman, such as that she needs more protein (when she’s craving MacDonald’s) or that she needs more calcium (when she’s downing chocolate milk by the litre).

 

The other side of food and pregnancy, however, relates to foods that contain dangerous bacteria or chemicals which can interfere with the development of your baby or pose a serious risk to your health or even the survival of the baby.

 

No matter what, you must afford some fish, such as swordfish, mackerel, shark, tile-fish and albacore tuna, as these fishes have high levels of mercury. This can cause serious damage to the developing eyes of the foetus.

 

Any kind of meat or fish that has been undercooked is also off limits for a while (and this includes sushi) as these can be contaminated with bacteria that carry diseases, such as salmonella. Healthy adults would simply suffer from food poisoning, but a pregnant woman who got food poisoning like this could end up miscarrying or delivering prematurely. Make sure you store all meat safely and then cook it thoroughly to ensure that it is piping hot in the middle, as this will kill off any bacteria lurking in the meat.

Categories: avoid, Baby, Food, Food Poisoning, foods, meat, nbsp, pregnancy, Pregnant, pregnant woman, unborn baby

Is Egg Freezing The Future Of Fertility?

Fertility is unsurprisingly a big topic as it determines whether we can reproduce as a species. In the past it was the case that as humans we would sometimes be limited in our ability to reproduce if there was something wrong with us in terms of the fertilisation process. It would be equally true that we had a limited amount of time in which we are generally able to reproduce – for women, as they get older it becomes more difficult and eventually impossible. For men, the sperm count drops with age and this only makes the situation more difficult. This has been a constant problem that has left many people disappointed when their efforts to have children have failed.

 

But as modern technology has only improved over the years it has become possible to apply it to the problems of fertility. There are many ways that scientists have attempted to counter the issue of fertility problems, one of which is the famous in vitro fertilisation – a process that takes the eggs and sperm from the couple that cannot conceive, fertilises them together and then places them either back into the woman or into a female surrogate. This process has become very popular as a way to overcome the crushing disappointment experienced by those couples that cannot conceive in the natural way.

 

But in vitro fertilisation is not the only way that science has been used to help out with this increasingly common problem. Another is known as egg freezing. But up until recently egg freezing was considered to be perhaps more controversial than in vitro fertilisation because it was still essentially an experimental technology. However, that all changed last October when the American Society for Reproductive Medicine announced that egg freezing should no longer be considered an experimental procedure – and this is big news, considering how recent the technology is.

 

The technology involves flash freezing eggs from women when they younger to then use later in their lives when they are ready to have children but their fertility has waned somewhat. But now that the perhaps worrying label of ‘experimental’ has been lifted from the treatment, does that mean that woman have been flocking to have their eggs frozen? Well it does not seem that this is the case just yet. Indeed, it still seems that not only women generally, but some fertility doctors still have some misgivings about the treatment and this is holding it back from joining the mainstream.

 

Some doctors are known to fear that if they go through with the process of freezing the eggs, it will change the lives of the women involved. That may be true but not necessarily in a bad way – having your eggs frozen actually essentially offers you the opportunity to live your life to a fuller extent for a longer period of time. So how exactly should you do this? Well there is actually a good system of best practice to follow.

 

For example, it is a good idea to freeze a number of eggs, perhaps around 30 in order to have a good chance that one will conceive. It currently thought that the success rate lies at around 35 per cent, so this gives you an idea of how many eggs you’ll need. Unfortunately the process is still rather expensive and costs many thousands of pounds to have you eggs frozen – and it will cost even more to have the rest of procedure conducted once you have made the decision to have children but if you’ve decided that this process is right for you then you might well decide the money is worth it!

Categories: Baby, egg freezing, Eggs, eggs frozen, Fertility, freezing, in vitro, nbsp, process, vitro fertilisation

The Facts Surrounding Sex After a Baby is Born

After going through childbirth many women find that they don’t feel the need or urge to have sex for a little while. Perhaps this is not surprising, after all the act of giving birth and indeed the nine months of pregnancy have meant drastic changes in the body and a new mother may still be getting used to her body. Of course once there is an awkwardness surrounding sex for a couple after the birth of the baby this can only serve to make the matter more complex. But a new study shedding more light on the issue has revealed some of the facts behind sex after childbirth.

 

Some women go for a long time without wanting to have sex while for others the process is a fairly quick and simple one. There is no right answer; it is just whatever feels right for you. But this new research has shown that much of the desire to have sex for women after childbirth comes not from physical factors, but from psychological ones. Indeed it seems that factors such as spousal support and the new baby’s sleeping habits play a far more integral role in the sex life of new parents than physical issues such as birth trauma. Doctors tend to recommend a sex-week waiting period before having sex after childbirth due to the damaging nature of giving birth, but many women find that feelings of sexual desire return long before then.

 

“One interesting thing is that women performed oral sex on their partners and engaged in masturbation earlier than they received oral sex or engaged in intercourse,” said Sari van Anders, who is a behavioural endocrinologist at the University of Michigan and one of the key figures in the study. “People have frequently assumed that women just aren’t interested in sexuality early in the postpartum period and that the sexual activity they do engage in is for the sake of their partners, but the rates of masturbation suggest that many women are feeling sexual”. This definitely suggests that it is not so much an issue of women not wanting to have sex, but rather than they do want to, but are following the advice of their doctor.

 

We all know that the period straight after having a baby can be very stressful and difficult for parents. This specifically includes periods of very little sleep which can have a very series knock-on effect on the lifestyle of the parents and can cause other problems. Lack of sleep is known to lead to irritability and a number of other problems. This is thought to be one of the key factor in why couples don’t have sex rather than being anything to do with the women not wanting to have sex – with the baby waking so often and needing constant attention it can be very difficult to find the time to be intimate. But many people instead blame this lack of intimacy on the actual effects of childbirth itself, but this is generally not the case.

 

Interestingly there was still some suggestion in the study that many women feel the need to resume sexual activity early to benefit their partners’ needs and desires. But the women’s level of social support and physical and psychological experiences during childbirth were other major factors in determining how long they took to resume sexual activity. Previously it had been thought that physical problems such as fatigue and trauma might be the major factors in determining when women want to have sex again, but it appears that this is not actually the case.

Categories: Baby, childbirth, giving birth, major factors, oral sex, resume sexual, Sex, sexual activity, surrounding sex, Women

Why Having Children Doesn’t Mean the End of Your Sex Life

Doesn’t it seem somewhat ironic that the thing you have to do to make a baby becomes the very thing you can no longer do once the kids arrive? Sure, it’s sex 24/7 when you’re newly married, but as soon as you’ve got a baby to take care of, you can feel like it’s bye-bye to bedroom fun for the next 18 years. However, having a sex life while being a parent shouldn’t be a mutually exclusive proposition; it is possible to still enjoy a healthy sexual wellbeing when there are kids in the house – just make sure you’ve got a good, working lock on that door!

 

1. Find the time: When you’ve got kids, even finding the time to clean your teeth in the morning is a struggle, let alone setting aside space in the schedule for getting intimate. However, a little re-organisation is in order if you ever want to spend time with your partner, even if your children are in the house. Going to bed at the same time can help to ensure you’re more in sync, especially if you go to bed a little earlier instead of watching TV all night after the kids are asleep. If you’re still feeling a bit weird about having sex with your kids in the next room, send them to family or friends for the night so you can have some proper alone time.

 

2. Protect your privacy: If you’ve got little ones, you might be reluctant to go to the loo or shower by yourself, let alone closing and locking the door, in case your children need you for some sort of emergency. However, once your kids have graduated to a big bed, it’s time to instill a greater sense of privacy and teach them to respect closed doors. Respecting other people’s space in general is an important life lesson to for your children to learn, and it can give you and your partner the opportunity you need to be together without the fear of unexpected interruptions.

 

3. Keep the noise down: Having to be q-u-i-e-t at all times can really cramp your style, but there are practical things you can do to prevent advertising what you are doing behind closed doors. First, pay attention to your bed: If it is hitting a wall, move it; if the squeaky springs are giving the game away, invest in a new mattress. When getting intimate with your partner, turning on a little music – in your room and/or your kids’ rooms – will go a long way to mask any noise you make. Putting your kids in front of the TV may also have the same effect – just make sure it’s an engrossing enough programme that they won’t notice you’re missing!

 

4. Sex when you have young kids: If you have a newborn sleeping in the cot next to you, having sex can feel a bit weird. It’s important to bear in mind that whatever you do and however loudly you do it, your baby won’t remember it. Nonetheless, there are some very simple ways to get around this issue. Move your baby/toddler into another room – it’s something they’ll have to do eventually anyway. If the baby’s already asleep and you’re reluctant to move him or her, try snuggling in another room in the house, you might enjoy a change of scenery!

 

5. Sex when you have older kids: If your kids go to bed at the same time of you, it’s harder to get your alone time and keep it secret. This is why it’s important to teach a closed-door policy as soon as possible, preferably from a young age. Make sure they know to knock first and wait for an answer before they come in – otherwise, they could be doing as much damage to their mental wellness as they are to your sexual health!

Categories: Baby, Children, closed doors, Kids, music, nbsp, privacy, room, sex life, time

Breastfeeding Basics: 5 Tips to Getting Your Baby Started

Breastfeeding is the most natural way for a mother to bond with her newborn baby. Because breastfeeding is a natural bonding method, it doesn’t take long for both mother and baby to develop a daily feeding routine.

 

If you are a new mother and this is your first time breastfeeding, then prepare for the many benefits both you and your baby will experience. One of the benefits is health.

 

According to the U.S. Department of Human Services’ Office on Women’s Health (OWH), breast milk carries the nutrients and antibodies that protects your baby’s body. Breast milk also reduces your baby’s risk of asthma, respiratory infections, Type 2 diabetes, ear infections and diarrhea, all common illnesses experienced by formula-fed babies.

 

As for mothers, the OWH has found that breastfeeding reduces a woman’s risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, Type 2 diabetes, and postpartum depression.

 

How to breastfeed

 

1. Get into a comfortable position. If there’s one thing you don’t want to do, it’s stress out while your feeding your baby. So, relax; sit back or lie back. Find the position that best works for you. In whatever position is comfortable for you, it’s important that your back is supported. Place a breast feeding pillow or cushions near you to help you and your baby feel comfortable.

 

2. Getting your baby into position. Put your baby’s hands at his side. Tilt your baby’s head back (if he’s not already lying on a breast-feeding pillow). You can do this by cradling his head with your hand or holding him by his shoulders with your palm and having your thumb and index finger behind his ears.

 

3. Preparing to latch. Bring your baby to your breast. With his lips on your nipple, your baby should respond by opening his mouth. His chin and bottom lip should touch your breast. Guide his bottom lip away from the base of your nipple so that he can draw in as much of your breast as possible.

 

4. Latching on. When your nipple lands in the back of your baby’s mouth, your baby will work his tongue under your breast to activate the milk ducts. Once the milk begins to flow, keep your breast as still as possible.

 

5. Baby knows when to stop. When your baby’s jaws start slowing down and eventually stop moving, that’s a sure sign that he has had enough milk. When he’s done, lift your breast and your baby should let go, if he has not done so already.

 

When first learning how to breastfeed, you may have to make adjustments during the process to make sure that your baby has latched on correctly and is getting the amount of milk he needs.

 

If you need more help in breastfeeding, feel free to ask for help. Contact your doctor’s office or a midwife center in your area.

 

Mother of four, writer Melanie Fleury has breastfed all her children for various amounts of time. She found that, for her, the key to breastfeeding was to get into a comfortable position before latching her baby on. A good breast feeding pillow was often the key to getting that proper positioning.

 

 

Photo Credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/motheringtouch/5204672889/

Categories: Baby, Breast, Breast Feeding, breast milk, Breastfeeding, comfortable position, feeding pillow, latching on, milk, nbsp