Suddenly, it hits you! You look at the calendar and realize that your due date is just days away. All this time, you have been dreaming about the day you get to meet your baby. You have been counting down the days, and decorating the nursery and buying cute baby clothes. Now that the time is close you become strangled with a paralyzing fear and realize that you are scared to give birth.

This is perhaps one of the most common fears of first time moms. And second, third and fourth time moms. There is so much mystery revolving around the birthing process that you never quite know what to expect. Plus, there are so many thoughts of the things that can go wrong swirling around in your head that anxiety is completely expected. Making matters worse, is that you may not know what to expect – especially if your only information comes from other moms and pregnancy books.

You may be worried about whether it will hurt, if your water will break while you are in the middle of the store, or worse – stuck in traffic, or if your baby is going to be healthy. You may be afraid of pooping on the doctor, or not having your partner make it to the hospital in time. What if you can’t give birth? The list of fears and worries is potentially endless. But here’s the thing.

Women have been giving birth since the beginning of time. No matter how afraid you are, YOU CAN DO THIS. Whatever pain comes your way, will be forgotten almost immediately once you see your baby. Hospitals and birthing assistants today are literally prepared for everything, and your chances of everything going perfectly right – are much higher than they are that anything will go wrong.

Plus, your female body was perfectly designed to give birth. Take a look at how far you have come, and try to relax as much as possible. It’s perfectly normal to be nervous and anxious about giving birth, but the reality is that at this point you don’t really have a choice. Allow nature to take its course, and do your best to not complicate things by psyching yourself out. If you go into labor and delivery with a calm head, and a lot of faith that all will be well – you will have a much better labor and delivery experience.

There is no shame in being scared to give birth. More than likely, every woman nearing the electronic doors of the birthing center experiences moments where they don’t want to go in, terrified about what lies ahead in the hours before they meet their baby. (I was one of those women who sat in the car in the parking lot of the hospital with my husband for 30 minutes after my water broke refusing to admit myself out of sheer terror) And yet, when you leave the hospital with a bundled up newborn in their arms, you will feel nothing but love – and the stress and anxiety will be completely forgotten.

Also, before you give in to the fears of giving birth, consider that if labor and delivery were so bad, there would be very few women in this world who would choose to do it again and again. And yet millions of woman choose to give birth multiple times in their life. Embrace the experience as much as possible as it is one you will never get to relive.

Written By Stef, Mom of 4 @MOM-Spirational

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2018. All rights reserved.

Once a product reserved for hardcore eco-mums, cloth nappies (diapers) are now growing in popularity. In fact, they’ve become something of a fashion statement for your baby’s bottom. Michelle Williams, Julia Roberts and Gwyneth Paltrow are all celebrity fans of cloth nappies. There are lots of reasons why people opt for reusable nappies over disposables, here we look at some of the main ones:

Better for the planet:

• During his first year of life, your baby will need 3000 nappy changes. That’s a lot of nappies! If you’re using disposables, that’s a lot of rubbish.
• Each disposable nappy takes at least 200 years to decompose. In the UK, eight million disposable nappies end up in landfill each year.
• Once in landfill, the disposable nappies release methane. Methane is widely considered to be the worst greenhouse gas because it reaches the atmosphere so much quicker than other greenhouse gases.

Better for your purse:

• If you’re looking at the price per nappy, you might think cloth nappies are crazily expensive. Remember though, each nappy will be used countless times, unlike a disposable nappy which will just be used once.
• It is estimated that disposable nappies will cost you around £1000 / $1,500 USD from birth to potty training. Cloth nappies, on the other hand, will set you back around £300 / $450 USD for a kit. Of course you then have to factor in washing and drying, but even then it will be less than using disposables.
• See it as an investment. Once a disposable nappy has been used, it needs to be chucked out, but a cloth nappy can be used time and time again. You will be able to use them on more than one child, and will even be able to sell them on second hand when you’re finished with them.

Better for baby:

• Lots of chemicals are used during the production of disposable nappies. You can buy organic cloth nappies that contain no chemicals.
• Cloth nappies look great. Gone are the days of simple terry squares with giant safety pins. Now cloth nappies are available in a whole array of bright colours and fun designs. You can even get them personally embroidered with your baby’s name.

If you aren’t sure whether cloth nappies are for you, you can borrow some for free from your local cloth nappy library. There are cloth nappy libraries across the country offering a selection of brands and styles for you to try for free. This will give you the chance to try out the nappies, without spending lots of money. It will also help you to choose the right brand and style for your baby.

Written by Fiona, proud owner of a toddler, @fiona_peacock

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2018. All rights reserved.

Placental abruption is a condition in which the placenta separates from the lining of the uterus before birth. Placental abruption occurs in around one per cent of pregnancies. Placental abruption can occur at any time after week 20, although it is most common during the final trimester.

Causes of placental abruption

The exact cause of placental abruption has not yet been identified. However, studies have linked placental abruption to the following risk factors:

• Smoking
• Cocaine use
• Abdominal injury
• High blood pressure
• Bleeding during early pregnancy
• Advanced maternal age

If you have experience placental abruption during a previous pregnancy, you have an increased risk of developing the condition again.

Placental abruption can be a serious condition for both mother and baby. There is an increased risk of premature birth, stillbirth and death within the first 28 days of life. If undiagnosed, a minor abruption could lead to fetal growth problems as the baby is starved of oxygen and nutrients.

Symptoms of placental abruption

Common symptoms of this condition include:

• Vaginal bleeding
• Frequent contractions
• Abdominal pain
• Back pain
• Reduced fetal movements

If you are experiencing any of the above, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately. You should go straight to hospital if you are losing a lot of blood and feel faint.

Diagnosis of placental abruption

The doctor will examine your abdomen, and monitor any contractions you may be experiencing. If you are experiencing vaginal bleeding, an internal examination will be performed. An ultrasound scan may be carried out to inspect the placenta more closely.

The baby’s heartbeat will be monitored during your hospital stay. It is important for the doctors to know whether the baby is in distress.

If you have lost a lot of blood on your arrival at the hospital, the examinations above will be delayed until your condition is stable. You will be given fluids, oxygen and, if necessary, a blood transfusion.

Treatment of placental abruption

Minor abruptions may require little more than an overnight stay in hospital. Once the doctor is happy that you and the baby are in good health, you will be discharged and told to return if further bleeding occurs.

If greater placental separation has taken place, you may be required to remain in hospital until the birth. Placental abruption can be life threatening for both mother and baby, so your doctor won’t take any chances with this condition. If the doctor considers your baby too young to be born, you will be admitted to hospital long term.

If you are close to your due date, immediate delivery may be the preferred option. This may be done by induction or, if necessary, caesarean section.

Prevention of placental abruption

To reduce the risk of you developing this condition, you should avoid smoking and drugs for the duration of the pregnancy (something you should avoid at all times anyway). You should attend all antenatal appointments to allow continuous monitoring of your blood pressure, and the baby’s gestational growth, as these can be early warning signs of the condition.

Written by Fiona, proud owner of a toddler, @fiona_peacock

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2018. All rights reserved.

During pregnancy, your pelvic bones and rib cage open up slightly to allow for the expanding baby inside you. The placenta produces relaxin, a hormone that softens your ligaments and allows your joints to loosen. With all of these changes taking place in your body, it’s no wonder that nature has a few glitches. Twenty per cent of pregnant women will experience some degree of pelvic girdle pain (PGP).

What causes Pelvic Girdle Pain in pregnancy?
The exact cause of PGP in pregnancy is unknown. It is unclear whether too much relaxin is to blame, or whether it is simply that some women are less able to cope with their changing postures. The sooner that PGP is diagnosed, the better, as this will allow you to start treating it.

Symptoms of Pelvic Girdle Pain in pregnancy
PGP usually causes aches and pains in the general pelvic area. Hip pain, back pain and buttock pain can also be symptoms of this disorder. Some women described the symptoms as feeling like a pulled muscle or severe muscle ache. If you think you may be experiencing PGP, speak to your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

Treatment for Pelvic Girdle Pain in pregnancy
Depending on the severity of your condition, you may be referred to a specialist for expert advice on how to deal with the discomfort caused by PGP. In the meantime, the following points may help you to manage any discomfort:

• Wear flat, comfortable shoes
• Ensure your back is well supported when sitting. A straight back is much better than a slump
• Sleeping with a pillow between your knees may help to keep your pelvis correctly aligned in the night
• If climbing the stairs is painful, try taking them one at a time
• Don’t lift any heavy objects – unfortunately this includes toddlers who might be looking up at you wanting a cuddle
• Don’t partake in any one sided activities such as vacuuming or decorating
• Slow down. Taking your time getting into cars, walking to work and getting out of bed reduces the risk of causing further damage

Birth and Pelvic Girdle Pain
PGP should not affect the type of birth you have. Unless you have particularly severe PGP, you should be able to give birth naturally. You may find that a water birth provides extra support during labour, and takes pressure off your hips. Speak to your healthcare provider to see if a water birth is an option for you.

Most women find that the pain disappears straight after the birth. For a very small number of women, symptoms may persist. If you find you are still suffering in the weeks following the birth, speak to your healthcare provider.

Written by Fiona (@Fiona_Peacock), mother, writer and lover of all things baby related.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2018. All rights reserved.

When it comes to prenatal care, it is important to choose a practitioner who not only meets your needs, but one who is professional and respects your beliefs. Many women do not think about the type of prenatal care they want before they get pregnant; however, when the time comes to make a decision, it should be well thought out. Choosing to be cared for by a midwife or an obstetrician-gynecologist may shape how your pregnancy – and your childbirth – progresses. The last thing you need during pregnancy is to be dealing with stress or tension. That is why it is important to choose someone you are completely comfortable with.

Choosing a Practitioner

There are a few things that you’ll want to take note of when trying to decide between a midwife and an Ob-Gyn. Besides personal beliefs, some women prefer one practitioner over the other for medical reasons, experience, safety, etc. If there are specific things that you are concerned about or need special treatment for, the right practitioner will be essential for a healthy pregnancy.

Routine Approach to Pregnancy

Ob-gyns are well-equipped and take a routine approach to your pregnancy. They will answer your questions and ensure your safe progress during pregnancy. However, since they see many patients, time can be an issue. You may not necessarily get all your questions answered or concerns heard.

If you have certain pre-existing medical conditions, you may be considered high-risk during pregnancy and may need to be cared for by an ob-gyn. Conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, etc. are all considered serious medical conditions and may need more attention. An ob-gyn will have equipment and facilities available to monitor your pre-existing conditions throughout pregnancy.

Usually, midwives take on pregnancies that are not complicated, to ensure the safety of the mother and the baby. Most midwives have the back-up of a doctor for referral if a condition develops during pregnancy or birth.

Holistic Approach to Pregnancy

If you’re looking for someone who can give you time and gets as involved as you want, you may prefer to have a midwife take care of you during your pregnancy. Midwives generally have time to answer questions you may have and can ease you in your pregnancy by helping you along the way, both physically and emotionally. A midwife is able to talk to you about specific birth plans and talk you through your options.

Check List

Before you choose either an ob-gyn or a midwife, go through your checklist and decide how you want to proceed in your pregnancy. Decide on things such as where do want to give birth: in your home or in a hospital? Do you want to try a new birthing experience, such as water birth? Do you have medical problems or have a family history of diseases, such as heart disease or diabetes? Will your medical insurance cover all your needs with this practitioner? Interview doctors or midwives if you have to until you find someone you are comfortable with.

Were there any specific ways you chose a practitioner when pregnant? Let us know your experience with either practitioner.

Written by Manal, first time mom, rearing an infant.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice.  All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2018. All rights reserved.

Becoming a father is a huge thing, and it will undoubtedly change your partner’s life forever. Whether your pregnancy was a long time coming or a complete surprise, your partner is likely to have some worries about becoming a dad. You know all those little worries and insecurities that keep you awake at night? Well, he’s probably feeling the same way. Here are seven ways to help him prepare for fatherhood:

1. Communicate – talk and listen. Tell him your expectations, and how he can help you out during pregnancy and motherhood, but also take the time to listen to his concerns and anxieties. Offer support and guidance where necessary, and be understanding towards his feelings.
2. Help him to help you – during pregnancy and the first few weeks of parenthood, your partner will be tasked with looking after you while you take care of the baby. Make sure he knows this, and let him know how you want him to help. Cooking meals, tidying up, laundry and acting as a gatekeeper for unwanted guests are all important roles that your partner can take on to help you out during this time.
3. Bump bonding – you spend every single second of the pregnancy with your developing baby. You feel the kicks, the hiccups, and notice when the baby is sleeping. While your partner may feel lucky to have avoided the backache, swollen ankles and hormonal rollercoaster of pregnancy, he’s also probably a little jealous. Without even trying, you’re already starting to bond with your baby. To make the transition to fatherhood easier, you should encourage your partner to do the same. Feeling the kicks, talking to the baby, and generally taking a hands-on approach to your bump can help him prepare for being a dad.
4. Preparing the nest – while nesting is typically the domain of heavily pregnant women, there’s no reason why expectant dads can’t get in on the act too. Putting together the crib, choosing the car seat and getting the nursery ready, are all great ways to get your partner involved in preparing for the baby.
5. Birth bonding – it’s not just mums and babies who benefit from skin to skin, it has been shown to help dads bond with their newborns, too. Make sure your partner is topless for his first cuddle with his new baby, and encourage him to spend a bit of time each day having skin to skin contact with his new baby.
6. Baby care – get your partner involved in baby care from the very beginning. If you’re breastfeeding, your partner won’t be able to feed the baby, but he can play an active role in your breastfeeding journey by supporting you. Changing nappies, getting the baby dressed and carrying the baby in a sling are all things dads can do straight after the birth.
7. Reassurance and confidence – the first few weeks as a parent can be terrifying, and you may feel worried that you’re doing everything wrong. Well, rest assured that your partner feels the same way. He’s just as nervous as you, though he may not always act it. Reassure your partner when he’s doing a good job, and help to build his confidence in his new role. Trust him, encourage him and appreciate him, just as he is doing with you.

Is your partner nervous about becoming a new dad? How are you helping him to prepare for fatherhood?

Written by Fiona (@Fiona_Peacock), mother, writer and lover of all things baby related.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2017. All rights reserved.

Sciatica is the name given to pain caused by the compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve. The sciatic nerve runs from the back of your pelvis, through your buttocks, and all the way down to your feet. When the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated, you may feel pain in your lower back radiating down to your calf. Some people experience mild discomfort, but others find sciatica to be very painful.

Sciatica during pregnancy
The sciatic nerve runs underneath your uterus. Towards the end of the pregnancy, the pressure of your growing uterus can put pressure on the sciatic nerve. In some cases, sciatica may appear earlier in the pregnancy, especially if you have a history of spinal disorders.

Symptoms of sciatica
Possible symptoms of sciatica include:

• pain radiating from the lower back, buttocks and legs – this pain may be worsened by coughing, sneezing and laughing
• pins and needles in the foot, leg or lower back
• numbness in the foot, leg or lower back
• muscle weakness in the foot, leg or lower back
• shooting pain in the lower back or buttocks

Sciatica treatment during pregnancy
In some cases, sciatica pain disappears by itself in a matter of hours, days or weeks. In some cases, the sciatica may last longer than 12 weeks, this is known as persistent sciatica. The following self-help tips may help you to relieve the discomfort caused by sciatica:

• apply an ice pack for 10 minutes
• apply a heat compress for 10 minutes
• wear flat, comfortable shoes
• avoid heavy lifting
• maintain good posture
• use a rolled up hand towel in the arch of your back to help you to maintain good posture when seated
• try not to stay in the same position for long periods
• drink plenty of water
• use extra pillows to support the weight of your bump in bed
• take regular light exercise, such as swimming
• have a massage from an experienced therapist to relieve some of the pressure on your sciatic nerve

It is important to inform your healthcare provider if you experience sciatica during pregnancy. If the pain is preventing you from going about your daily business, your healthcare provider may refer you to a specialist physiotherapist for further advice.

Sciatica and childbirth
Most women who experience sciatica during pregnancy will find the condition has resolved itself before they go into labour. If you are suffering from sciatica during childbirth, you may need to adjust your birth plan accordingly. Water births can allow movement without putting pressure on the sciatic nerve, so this may be an option you wish to consider. Speak to your healthcare provider about how sciatica could affect your birth.

Written by Fiona, proud owner of a toddler, @fiona_peacock

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2017. All rights reserved.

Baby showers aren’t just about eating cake, playing party games and aahing over tiny baby grows. They’re about helping the mum-to-be to prepare for the birth and life as a new mum. As the big day approaches, many pregnant women start to feel scared or apprehensive about the birth. Make sure you use the baby shower to focus on the birth, and how great the mum-to-be in going to do. Below are some baby shower traditions that focus on the mum-to-be.

Belly casting

Much as she may say she hates it now, she will one day look back fondly at photos of her bump. By creating a belly cast, you can give her something more solid to remember it by. Belly casts can look great as ornaments, vases and garden planters. You can make the belly cast as part of the shower. Or, you can ask the mum-to-be to make the cast in advance, and then have the guests decorate it at the shower.

Henna bump art

Made famous by Alanis Morissette in 2010, henna bump art is a great activity for a baby shower. The mum-to-be will be able to relax while the henna is applied, and then admire the work after it’s done. Henna looks great and you can achieve very detailed and beautiful designs with it. You could also give each of the shower guests a small henna tattoo on their wrists in a show of support for the mum-to-be. This will remind them to think of the mum-to-be during her last few weeks of pregnancy. Take some photos of the henna bump art, and be sure to frame the best one and give it to the mum-to-be as a reminder of the party.

Beaded bracelet

This is a great way to help the mum-to-be feel supported during labour. A bracelet is made at the shower, and the mum-to-be should wear it during labour to remind her of her strong support system of friends and family. You can ask each guest to bring a bead to form the bracelet, or provide modeling clay and ask guests to make them at the shower. If any guests are unable to attend the shower, they should send their beads in the post before, along with a message to be read out on the day.

These are just a few traditions that are popular across the globe. You can adapt and change them to suit your mum-to-be. The important thing is that the mum-to-be leaves her shower feeling loved, supported and confident about the birth and motherhood.

Written by Fiona, proud owner of a toddler, @fiona_peacock

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2017. All rights reserved.

Braxton Hicks are irregular uterine contractions experienced during pregnancy. They are usually painless, although some women find them uncomfortable. Unlike the contractions of real labour, Braxton Hicks do not become more frequent or longer over time. In fact, it is unusual for women to have more than four in an hour. Braxton Hicks contractions tend to last around 30 seconds, although can sometimes be longer.

Braxton Hicks contractions start around week six, but will not be felt until much later in the pregnancy. As the uterus grows, the contractions will become more obvious. Some women may not feel the contractions at all, whereas others will be aware of them from the first trimester.

What is the point of Braxton Hicks contractions?

These irregular uterine contractions are believed to increase blood flow to the placenta and uterus. Some experts think the contractions are preparing the body for real labour. Towards the end of the pregnancy, Braxton Hicks contractions encourage the baby into the right position to engage for labour.

You shouldn’t worry if you are experiencing Braxton Hicks contractions, they are a normal part of pregnancy. If you haven’t felt any Braxton Hicks contractions, that’s nothing to worry about either, it simply means you cannot feel them happening.

What should I do during Braxton Hicks contractions?

Braxton Hicks will make your stomach feel quite tense and hard. Towards the end of the pregnancy, you may notice an increase in the number of Braxton Hicks contractions. If you find the contractions uncomfortable you could try the following:

• Stay hydrated – these irregular uterine contractions can be caused by dehydration
• Change position – stand up, lie down or sit down and see if it helps
• Go for a walk – taking some light exercise can cause the contractions to ease off
• Have a bath – the warmth and relaxation may help with any discomfort
• Empty your bladder – a full bladder can cause a bout of Braxton Hicks

Different remedies work for different people, so try out all of the above until you find something that works for you.

Is it real labour?

Braxton Hicks contractions should not grow longer, stronger and closer together. If you have been timing your contractions for an hour, and they are growing longer and closer together, you may be in real labour. If you think this is the case, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

You should contact your healthcare provider if the contractions are accompanied by:

• Vaginal bleeding
• Lower back pain
• Diarrhea
• Vaginal Discharge

Written by Fiona, proud owner of a toddler, @fiona_peacock

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2017. All rights reserved.

By the third trimester of pregnancy, you have probably become used to – and fallen in love with – the feeling of your baby moving around inside you. Feeling your baby move inside your belly, and being able to actually see it through your skin and recognize little fingers or toes, is truly an amazing part of pregnancy.

But what happens when you are in the third trimester and it seems like your baby has stopped moving? Should you be immediately alarmed? Is it normal?

The reality is that your baby will have a pretty consistent cycle of wake and sleep. If you are up and moving around a lot, you may have lulled your baby to sleep inside you. Then suddenly, you realize that you cannot remember the last time you felt your baby move and begin to panic. Additionally, as your baby grows – there is less room for him or her to move around, which can cause a difference in the fetal movements you feel. When you do feel movement, it can be abrupt, painful and very uncomfortable for you. So a change in the types of movement late in pregnancy is normal for most women.

The best thing to do is to lie down on your left side, and drink some orange juice – or eat something sweet – and wait for 30 minutes or so.  Often times, the ‘sugar rush’ and your stillness will make the baby more active. You can also try to manipulate the baby with your hands by mashing gently on your belly.  Sometimes, you can push your belly in one way and force a movement or kick.

If none of these things seem to be working, then call your doctor. Chances are they will have you come in and hook you up to a baby monitor that will track the heartbeat and be able to pick up movements. Plus, if there is anything wrong – the doctors will have ultrasound equipment on hand and can take a quick peek at your baby to ascertain his or her welfare.

The best rule of thumb to follow when you are pregnant, is to follow your instincts. Worrying is just part of parenthood, and it starts even when you are pregnant. It is important that you pay attention to your body and the routine activities of your baby – so that if something goes astray, you will catch it right away. Your healthcare providers are there to HELP you, and it is better to be a little paranoid and err on the side of caution rather than wait it out.

Written By Stef, Mom of 4 @Momspirational

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a trained medical doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information, which is provided to you on a general information basis only and not as a substitute for personalized medical advice.  All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2017. All rights reserved.