Protein in Urine During Pregnancy: What Does it Mean?

At each prenatal visit, your healthcare provider will ask you to produce a urine sample. Your healthcare provider will perform a dipstick test on the sample, to check certain substances in your urine. This is a screening test which means it doesn’t diagnose a condition, but indicates if closer monitoring is warranted.

The dipstick test

Your healthcare provider will take your urine sample, and insert a specially treated chemical strip (a dipstick) into the sample. Patches on the dipstick will change colour to reveal the presence of protein. The dipstick test also reveals glucose levels, these are used to screen for gestational diabetes.

It is generally nothing to worry about if the test detects trace levels of protein in your urine, unless you are showing other symptoms of an associated condition. Your protein output changes throughout the day, and can be affected by diet and fluid intake.

Causes of excess protein in urine

The dipstick test shows how much protein is present in your urine, and this is classified from + (low) to ++++ (high). A high grading especially in later pregnancy can indicate pre-eclampsia, a serious condition that requires close monitoring. An underlying problem such as kidney damage may also cause a high protein output in pregnant women. A low grading is usually indicative of a urinary tract infection.

If a urinary tract infection is suspected, your healthcare provider will send your urine to the lab for more precise testing. One urine sample may suffice, or you may be asked to collect all urine output over a 24 hour period. At the lab, your sample will be tested for bacteria and then antibiotics will be recommended. If you are showing other symptoms of a urinary tract infection, your healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotics before the lab results are back.

Is it pre-eclampsia?

In a lot of cases, the cause of protein in urine during pregnancy will not be pre-eclampsia. However, because of the severity of this condition, it is important you know how to recognise the signs.

You should contact your healthcare provider if you notice any of the following symptoms:

  • high blood pressure
  • protein in your urine
  • vision problems (blurred vision or flashing lights)
  • sudden swelling of the hands, face and feet
  • pain in the upper abdomen
  • headaches
  • vomiting
  • feeling generally unwell

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.

Will I pass stool during labor?

Admit it! At least once in your pregnancy, especially as you get closer to the ‘end’ so to speak, you have asked yourself, “Will I poop during labor?”

After all, just because we are pregnant and become accustomed to strangers and doctors touching and positioning us into awkward and uncomfortable positions that completely compromise any shred of modesty we have left, doesn’t mean we are immune to worrying about other people actually seeing, or dealing with our feces. How embarrassing, right?

So what IS the scoop on poop? Will all that pushing and pressure squeeze out a little bit of poop as well as baby? Or is this just a bunch of hype that gives us yet another silly thing to worry about?

The truth is that there is a chance you will pass stool while delivering. Years ago in fact, doctors would give women in labor an enema to try and avoid the poop. But today, very few if any do so. And while you might be embarrassed about it, the reality is you probably won’t even know you did it. Today, doctors, midwifes and doulas are fully equipped to handle a little bit of poop in the delivery room. The feet up in stirrups position enables them to wipe away any fecal matter without making a fuss, and you certainly won’t find a labor and delivery room doctor or nurse who is going to make a big deal of it. Obviously, there are more important things going on during delivery than a little bit of poop.

Furthermore, if you are ‘bearing down and pushing,’ like the doctor instructs and pass some feces (or gas) along the way – it reassures the doctor that you are actually pushing properly. Which is important, especially if you have had an epidural that numbs your senses. Additionally, you need to realize that you are in perhaps one of the most vulnerable positions of your life. Most women in late pregnancy show up in labor and delivery rooms un-groomed in the nether regions for months (because who can actually reach down there and take care of that while pregnant), and 9/10ths of your naked body are hanging out for the world to see. And since thousands of women give birth every day of the year, you can bet that your doctor or birth assistant has SEEN IT ALL. A little bit of doo-doo might seem embarrassing at the time, but it really is just par for the course.

What you might want to do is make sure that the folks in the delivery room with you are prepared for what is to come. You definitely don’t want your uncle from out of town with the funny sense of humor filming your labor and then posting your pooping escapade on Facebook as a joke. And chances are your partner is so freaked out that you are pushing a head from your vagina, that any pooping is mild in comparison. But still, you might want to choose the people attending your birth accordingly and make sure that they are folks you are comfortable with. Better yet, request that every one stand at the head of your bed rather than at the foot of your bed.

So there you have it. You might poop a little during labor and delivery. Big deal! After all you have gone through to have a baby, you deserve to not have to worry about such silly things! After all, it’s all natural and normal. If anyone facilitating your birth mind – then they are CLEARLY in the wrong profession.

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.

Postpartum Depression: How to Spot It

As many as 15% of new mums suffer from postpartum mood disorders, including postpartum depression. You may have heard people talk about the baby blues, and the impact of postpartum hormonal changes on mood, but postpartum depression is more than that.

It’s important to be able to recognise the signs of postpartum depression in yourself and others, because the sooner this condition is diagnosed, the sooner treatment can begin.

It is not known what causes postpartum depression. Having a baby is a life-changing and stressful event. Exhaustion and stress are almost inevitable as you adjust to life as a new parent, and this may play a part in the onset of postpartum depression. Hormonal changes also contribute. You have an increased risk of developing postpartum depression if you:

  • have a family history of depression
  • have a personal history of depression or other mood disorders, such as bipolar disorder

Symptoms of postpartum depression

The symptoms of postnatal depression most often begin during the first two months after the birth, but may start any time in the first year postpartum. You may experience some of the following symptoms:

  • persistent low moods
  • persistent feeling of sadness
  • loss of interest in the world around you
  • inability to feel joy
  • fatigue
  • trouble sleeping
  • inability to concentrate and/or make decisions
  • low self-confidence
  • loss of interest in food, or comfort eating
  • feelings of guilt
  • suicidal thoughts
  • self-harming
  • frightening thoughts

Around half of all sufferers experience frightening thoughts of harming their baby. These thoughts are part of the condition, and do not mean you are a bad mother. It is rare for either mother or baby to be harmed as a result of postpartum depression.

Diagnosis and treatment

If you think you may be experiencing postpartum depression, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately. Your healthcare provider will be able to diagnose the condition by asking a series of questions. Some women are scared to seek help because they worry that their babies will be taken from them. In reality it is very, very rare for babies to be taken from their mothers because of postpartum depression. This would only ever occur in very exceptional circumstances.

Your healthcare provider is best placed to advise you on treatment options, and this will depend on the severity of your condition. Treatment options include:

  • counseling and therapy
  • medication

There are things you can do to help alleviate the symptoms of postpartum depression, for example:

  • talk about how you feel – whether it’s to your partner, friends, family or a group for sufferers, talking about your feelings may help
  • exercise – this is a proven way to treat depression, so try to exercise a few times a week
  • get out of the house – if you’re feeling low and want to hide indoors, try to force yourself to leave the house. Even just taking a quick stroll around the block can help
  • eat healthily – skipping meals and eating poorly can make you feel worse, so try to eat a healthy balanced diet
  • rest – get as much sleep as you can. If you can’t sleep, rest instead
  • accept help from friends and family

It can be hard to admit you are suffering from postpartum depression, and telling other people about it can be even harder. Try to remember, telling your healthcare provider is the first step on the road to recovery.

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.

I’ve Passed My Mucus Plug … Is Labour Imminent?

The mucus plug (also known as the operculum) is a thick glob of cervical mucus that blocks the cervical canal during pregnancy. The mucus plug prevents bacteria from getting inside the uterus and keeps the uterus sterile for the developing baby. Before the baby is born, the mucus plug is expelled to allow the baby to pass through the cervix.

What does a mucus plug look like? The mucus is usually thick, clear and sticky. It can look similar to nasal mucus, but is usually thicker. Towards the end of the pregnancy, as the cervix starts to efface in preparation for labour, the mucus may be tinged pink or slightly bloodied. It is sometimes known as a “bloody show”. Some women lose their mucus plug all at once, but for most it is a gradual process.Many women don’t even notice it happening due to the increase in vaginal secretions.

I’ve passed my mucus plug, is labour imminent? I hate to disappoint you, but passing the mucus plug is not a clear indication that labour is about to start. In fact, some women pass their mucus plug weeks before going into labour. However, passing the mucus plug does mean that your body is starting to prepare for labour. If you have passed your mucus plug before going into labour, your cervix will continue to secrete mucus and then plug will rebuild itself. Amazing, right? Some women even report losing their mucus plug more than once. Some women will only lose their mucus plug when they are in the throes of labour, and this is totally fine too.

Should I call my healthcare provider? If the mucus is clear, tinged pink or slightly bloodied, then there is no need to contact your healthcare provider. There is also no need to keep a sample of your mucus plug to show to your healthcare provider at your next appointment. However, you should mention to your healthcare provider that you have passed the plug when you next see them. If your mucus plug is bright red in colour, or excessive in quantity (more than two tablespoons), you should contact your healthcare provider immediately. These symptoms can be indicative of more serious conditions including placenta previa or placental abruption. If you see blood-tinged mucus before the 36th week of your pregnancy, you should contact your healthcare provider immediately.

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.

What is a Mucus Plug?

The mucus plug is a thick column of cervical mucus which sits in the cervical canal during pregnancy, essentially forming a blockage. The mucus plug stops bacteria from getting into your uterus, and helps to keep your uterus sterile during pregnancy. Before the birth, you will lose your mucus plug, allowing the baby to pass through the cervix during labour.

Your mucus plug is made of a sticky, clear mucus, like nasal mucus, but often thicker. Towards the end of the pregnancy, you may start to lose some of your mucus plug. Some women lose the entire plug in one go, but others report the process taking up to a few days. The mucus plug is odourless but may not be the most attractive sight to behold.

What is a bloody show?

A bloody show is simply another name for a mucus plug. You may find that the mucus appears pink or brown tinged with blood, and this is why it is commonly known as a bloody show. There is nothing to worry about if your mucus plug is tinged with blood, in fact it is quite normal. It’s also normal to have a clear plug, you may also have heard it called a ‘show’.

Passing your plug

Passing your mucus plug is not always a clear indication that labour is imminent. In fact, if you pass your mucus plug over 24 hours before labour starts, your body will create a new mucus plug to take its place. Some women lose their mucus plug weeks before labour begins, however, it does mean that your cervix is starting to prepare for the birth.

Though it doesn’t mean the onset of labour will happen any minute, it does mean you should start preparing for labour. Is your hospital bag packed? Have you finished the nursery? Now is the time to finish off any loose ends around the house, and get ready to welcome your baby within the next few weeks.

You may notice you have passed a small amount of mucus after a vaginal exam or after having sex, this is usually nothing to worry about.

When to tell your healthcare provider

You can mention the plug to your healthcare provider at your next appointment, but there’s usually no need to contact them specially for this reason. However, you should contact your healthcare provider if:

  • you notice blood-tinged mucus before your 37th week of pregnancy
  • the mucus plug is bright red
  • you pass more than two tablespoons of mucus

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.

Preparing for Life with a Baby

You’ve installed the car seat, and assembled the crib, changing table, swing, stroller, and more. You have washed all of the onesies and sleepers, and have stocked up on diapers. Now what? What else can you do to prepare for your baby’s arrival?

Try this exercise:

Draw a circle on a sheet of paper and divide it into 24 slices. Now think about all the ways you spend your time each and every day. Eight hour workday? Shade in eight slices of pie. An hour of commuting to and from work? There’s another slice. A regular eight hours of sleep – shade it in. Showering, doing your hair and make-up, fixing meals, exercising, housekeeping, etc. Consider all the ways you spend your time and record them on your pie chart. Ask your partner to do the same on his own pie chart.

Now imagine life with a baby. How much time will baby care take? If this is your first baby, you may not have any idea. Take infant feeding, for instance. If you’re breastfeeding, expect your newborn to eat 8-12 times each day (maybe more!). If he’s eating 12 times a day, and each feeding takes on average 30 minutes (and that’s the low end of average), you’ll be spending 6 hours a day on feeding. Even if you’re formula feeding, preparing bottles, cleaning them, and actually feeding baby takes time, too. How will your pie chart need to change to accommodate this? What about diaper changing? Expect to change a diaper with every feeding – if you figure 12 per day at 5 minutes per change (once you get good at it), that’s another hour there. Add in clothing changes, comforting, putting baby to sleep, burping, etc. and add that all to your pie. How will baby care fit into your life?

Discuss this exercise with your partner, and work on a system for who will do what and when. If you’re over your allotted 24 hours for the day, something’s got to give. Can your partner take over some duties? Can you forego some daily activities? Think about what will be essential in the beginning – sleep and food (for baby and for you!). Pare down your day to these activities.

Sleep deprivation is the number one hurdle all new parents face. Babies sleep a lot, but they wake a lot, too, and at the most inconvenient times (like at night when you’re trying to sleep). While you may be mentally prepared for this – everyone tells you it’s coming – the reality can be quite challenging. Try to sleep – or at least rest – when baby sleeps. Limit visitors in the early days, and ask those who stop by to give you a hand with a load of laundry or the dishes in the sink. Eat well, drink enough water, and exercise daily – these will help minimize the effects of the lack of sleep. Most of all, keep in mind that all babies wake often, and that it’s a protective mechanism they will grow out of when they are developmentally ready.

Consider the first three months with a new baby your 4th trimester. Your baby will appreciate a womb-like environment: low lighting, warmth, being near mom, and feeding on demand. By meeting these needs, your baby will have a sense of security. But caring for your baby this way will also help you learn to parent. You’ll learn all of your baby’s subtle cues, his likes and dislikes, and more. You’ll ease into parenting gently. Keep in mind that you will need time to recover, too. So allow the 4th trimester to be your time to recuperate. Lower your expectations, and let go of the to-do list. Enjoy your baby, and be gentle on yourself as you learn to mother.

Enjoyed this article? There are lots more interesting articles and tools in our new follow-on App Baby+ for iPhone / iPad or Android. Click Baby+ iOS or Baby+ Android to install the App, and prepare for the arrival of your little one(s).

What tips do experienced moms have for those who are having their first baby?

Written by Michelle: lactation consultant, childbirth educator, writer, editor, and mother to 4 busy kids

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.

5 Ways to Make Yourself Useful During Childbirth

Don’t worry, pregnant readers, this post isn’t aimed at you. The act of giving birth is considered more than useful, so don’t feel you need to take on any further responsibilities in the labour room. No, this article is more for the eyes of any future birth partners, so make sure you send yours a copy.

Being a birth partner is a pretty big deal. Whether you’re the father, a family friend, or about to become  grandma, being a birth partner is an honour. It’s also, however, a pretty big responsibility. It’s impossible to predict how a birth will go, and you won’t know in advance how the mum-to-be will be feeling on the day. Try not to get too worried about the endless possibilities of things you should be doing in the delivery room, and instead focus on the following five ways to make yourself useful during childbirth:

1. Soothe – one of your main roles in the delivery room is to keep the labouring woman calm. Worry, fear and panic need to be as far away from the labour room as possible. Feeling worried can actually stop labour from progressing, so you need to keep the mum-to-be in high spirits. This is no place for jazz hands though, instead go with soothing words, a low voice, and reassuring touches.

2. Cheer – the best homework you can do for labour, is to watch Bring It On a few times. As a birth partner, you are the official cheerleader of the mum-to-be. You’re her coach, her team mate and her cheerleader, all rolled into one. Come with your pompoms at the ready, and have some stock phrases ready to put into action. Tell her she’s doing great, that she’s amazing, and that you’re in awe of her.

3. Help – whatever she needs during labour, it’s your job to do it. Have the layout of the hospital bag memorised in advance, because when she’s screaming mid-contraction for the massage ball, you won’t want to waste another second. Snacks, drinks, ice chips – whatever she needs, you’re her personal butler. When she says her backaches, offer her a massage. If she’s hot, hold a cold water flannel to her head. Just help, in any way you can.

4. Get involved – labour is no time for sitting on the sidelines. You need to be by her side, as much a part of the team as the professional delivering the baby. Use your strength to support her weight so she can try out vertical positions during labour, maximising gravity during the birth. Help her with her breathing, reminding her to use her breathing to stay calm, and even to help focus her strength during the pushing stage.

5. Ask – childbirth can be a bit of a blur, especially for the labouring woman. She may not be conscious of decisions being made, or plans being suggested around her. Of course, the most important thing is that both mother and baby are healthy, but don’t be afraid to ask questions about why certain decisions are being made. Not only will this help the mum-to-be when she asks questions about the birth, and is able to get a full explanation from you, it could also help to remind the healthcare provider of the mum-to-be’s birth plan.

Who have you chosen to be your birth partner, and why?

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.

How Does an Epidural Work?

Epidural is the most commonly used form of pain relief during labour in the US. A catheter is inserted into the epidural space in the membrane surrounding your spine. This tube is then used to deliver continuous medications for pain relief throughout labour. An epidural usually delivers a mix of an anaesthetic and a narcotic. An epidural decreases sensation in your lower body, but doesn’t cause numbness. An epidural enables you to stay conscious throughout labour.

How is an epidural administered?
You will be asked to sit at the edge of the bed, or lie in a curled position, for the epidural to be inserted. A numbing injection will be used to prepare the insertion site. Once the area is numb, a needle will be inserted into your lower back.

The catheter will then be fed through the needle and into your back. The needle will then be withdrawn, and the catheter will be taped into place to prevent it from coming out. Once it has been taped down, you will be able to lie back down on the bed.

You will be given a test dosage of the medicine to ensure that there are no problems, and once this has been confirmed you will be given a full dose. Your baby will need continuous monitoring if you opt for an epidural, and your blood pressure will need to be checked regularly.

Can I have an epidural?
Not all women are able to have epidurals. You will be advised against having one if you:

  • have very low blood pressure
  • have a bleeding disorder
  • have a blood infection
  • have a skin infection on your lower back
  • have had previous allergic reactions to local anaesthetic
  • are on certain blood thinning medication

When can I have an epidural?
You should be in active labour before you have an epidural. This means you must be at least 4cm dilated and having regular contractions. You can have an epidural fitted at any point during active labour, until your baby’s head is crowning. Then it is considered too late to start an epidural, but if necessary you will be offered other forms of pain relief.

Advantages of an epidural
The advantages of this form of pain relief are:

  • it is considered to be a very effective form of pain relief
  • the dosage and strength can be increased or decreased easily as required
  • you will be awake and alert during the birth

Disadvantages of an epidural
There are some disadvantages to this form of pain medication, including:

  • most epidurals restrict your movement and mean you are unable to stand or walk during labour, and this may restrict the birthing positions you can try
  • you will require an IV and regular blood pressure checks
  • your baby will require continuous fetal monitoring
  • women with epidurals tend to have to push for longer during labour
  • an increased risk of assisted delivery by forceps or vacuum extraction
  • in a very small number of women, epidurals may affect breathing, or cause nerve damage or infection

It is impossible to predict how you will experience labour. You may be crying out for an epidural after five minutes of active labour, or you may find relaxation breathing alone gets you through the birth. Keep your mind open to an epidural, but you may like to delay it until you feel it is truly necessary.

What pain relief are you planning to use during labour?

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.

Preparing Your Partner for Childbirth

When you think about the impending birth, you’re probably worrying about how you’ll cope on the day, what will happen and whether it will all go to plan. With all that on your mind, it’s no wonder you’ve forgotten to consider how your partner will cope. Preparing your partner for childbirth is almost as important as packing your hospital bag, and it certainly isn’t something you should overlook.

There are plenty of horror stories about dads-to-be fainting in the delivery room and missing the birth, or infuriating the mums-to-be by asking how long is left. The birth of your child is one of those life changing moments, so make sure your partner is prepared for what’s going to happen, and how he can help on the day.

Give him homework
If he has any chance of being useful, he’s going to need to know what to expect in the delivery room. From bodily fluids to labour noises, he needs to be ready for whatever you’re about to throw at him. There are plenty of great books designed to coach dads-to-be in preparation for labour, so why not pick one out for him? There’s loads of information online, too; he could even watch some birth videos. Prenatal classes are the best place to pick up information about the birth. Your prenatal teacher will explain the labour process in detail, and answer any questions he might have. If you’ve enjoyed using this app, you could also ask him to download our new Baby+ App. It has hundreds of interesting articles, tools and great features.

Talk to friends and family
The best way to learn about childbirth, is to speak to people who’ve been through it. The best people to speak to are those who have recently experienced it, because the information will still be fresh in their minds. Ask questions, and tell them you want all the gory details. Ask the dad what it felt like for him, and what he had to do. This will give your partner ideas and prepare him for the big day.

Great expectations
Let him know any expectations you have, so that he knows what you want on the day. If you’re expecting a back massage during labour, make sure he knows in advance so he can learn some massage techniques. If he can often be found playing games on his phone, let him know that he shouldn’t do this in the delivery suite.

Taking care of himself too
One rookie mistake that lots of first time dads make, is that they forget to look after themselves on the day. The don’t eat, they don’t sleep, they don’t even stop for toilet breaks, and as a result they end up an exhausted, shivering, weak mess by the end of it all, utterly unable to offer you the support you need. Make sure he packs energy drinks and snacks for himself, and makes sure that he’s in the best state to be able to support you to deliver the baby.

Talk it through
Keep communication lines open at all times. You might be scared of impending parenthood and the birth, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t. In fact, you might find he shares all of your fears and has a few of his own too. Encourage him to talk to you about his feelings, so that you can work through any issues and prepare for any potential problems together.

Do you have any tips on how to prepare to be a birth partner?

Do you enjoy this App? Good news! You can now also download our new Baby App (iOS only, but Android will follow soon!). Click here to install the new ‘Baby+’ App, and prepare for the arrival of your little one(s).

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.