Posted on

Talk to your baby bump, today!

It’s never too early to bond with your little one. Yes, even when your baby is still in the womb, you should go right ahead and initiate that conversation you’ve been waiting to have with your bundle of joy. Here’s why:

Pregency Week

It’s all about knowing your baby

First things first: don’t be awkward! If it helps, sit down to have your first conversation with your baby in complete privacy, when no one else – not even your spouse – is around. As you get into the groove, it won’t sound so odd anymore. Settle back against the cushions and be prepared to begin a bond that will only strengthen over the years with your child.

Your voice and your baby

Did you know that on being born, a newborn can distinguish their mother’s voice from that of others? After extensive study, it’s believed that babies are listening and learning from the last few weeks of pregnancy itself, and not just at birth. So much so, babies are known to recognize the difference between their mother’s native language and a foreign language just hours after birth.

Additionally, hearing your voice gives your baby some much-needed comfort, both in the womb and also once the baby is born. When you speak to your baby (or croon a little lullaby!), you may notice that the baby responds differently – the baby may look up at you and try to make eye contact, or move its limbs in a little pattern. There could also be a slight alteration in the baby’s heart rate – but when it’s your voice, it’s all for the good! The slight decrease in activity could signify that the baby is now more relaxed and calmer than earlier. Be sure, therefore, to speak in a consistent tone of voice, and stay calm when speaking to the baby – even when the baby is unborn.

Studies have shown that speaking to your baby during pregnancy itself helps their social and emotional development. It also helps strengthen their memory. It is estimated that your baby may begin to react to sound at 24 weeks, although don’t be disappointed if it takes a week or two longer!

Pregency Week

What you should talk to your baby about

Well, there’s nothing in particular that you need to speak to your baby about! Just talking to your little one in a soothing tone, even if you are just relating how your own day has been, will work wonders. After all, it’s all about you and your voice, and not so much the content. Switch things up – read out loud to the baby, even in utero. It could be your favouritebook or even the day’s news in the newspapers. You could also try reading a children’s book or sing a nursery rhyme! Remember that the baby will find your voice soothing, so it’s likely that they may settle down to listen to you and not move too much!

What next

Once your baby actually arrives, continue to build this precious bond. It is crucial for their development and how they perceive the world as they grow.

References:

https://www.aptaclub.co.uk/pregnancy/bonding-and-development/reasons-to-talk-to-your-baby-before-birth.html https://www.aptaclub.co.uk/pregnancy/bonding-and-development/how-to-talk-to-your-baby-pre-birth.html
Back to Articles
Posted on

Signs of Pregnancy

Are you trying to conceive? If yes, then you may be constantly looking for the smallest signs of pregnancy. And, why not? The period can be exciting, as you may be struck with good news at any time! In such cases, a missed period or nausea could make you think that you are pregnant. While these are some of the common symptoms, the earliest signs of pregnancy are more than these. The start of pregnancy is calculated based on your last period date. While women usually begin to feel symptoms in the 5th or 6th week, there are many early signs occurring in the 1st to 4th week that may be missed.

While pregnancy tests are the best way to determine that you are pregnant, here are some signs that indicate you’re expecting.

Spotting

It may seem surprising, but if you experienced spotting in the recent days, then chances are that you are pregnant. After conception, the fertilized egg implants in the wall of the uterus. This may result in spotting orimplantation bleeding. It can occur from anywhere in between 6-12 days after fertilization and is pink, red, or brown in colour. It may or may not be accompanied by cramps, which are similar to menstrual cramps.

Pregency Week

Missed Period

This is one such symptom that may trigger you to get a pregnancy test done. After implantation, your body produces a hormone called human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG), which helps maintain pregnancy and prevent ovulation. As a result, you miss your period! However, there could be many reasons behind you missing your period, so it is best to get a test done to make sure that you’re pregnant.

Pregency Week

Fatigue

Do you feel tired in spite of getting enough rest? Then you could be pregnant. During pregnancy, the levels of progesterone in your body rises that makes you feel unusually sleepy and tired. You may feel fatigued as soon as you get pregnant or later as the pregnancy progresses. Rest well and consume healthy foods to maintain good health for you and your baby.

Tender Breasts

If your breasts feel heavier and tender, then this could be a signal that you are pregnant. Due to hormonal changes, you are likely to experience tingly, sore, swollen breasts. You may find that your breasts are growing and the areas around your nipplesarealso darkening.

Pregency Week

Other Signs of Pregnancy

Apart from the above-mentioned symptoms, watch out for these signs that may indicate pregnancy:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Bloating and constipation
  • Frequent urination
  • A rise in body temperature
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Moodiness
  • Sensitivity to smell
  • Food cravings and aversions

Signs of pregnancy differ for every woman. If you’ve experienced any of these symptoms, then take the test to confirm the good news!

References:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/signs-and-symptoms-pregnancy/ https://www.webmd.com/baby/guide/pregnancy-am-i-pregnant#1
Back to Articles
Posted on

Foods to Avoid to Increase Chances of Conception

Most women focus on their diet only when they get pregnant or when they are breastfeeding. But, did you know that diet can actually play an important role when you are trying to conceive? Eating healthy foods like green veggies, lentils, dairy products, and nuts are known to increase your chances of conception. While this is true, many studies have also shown that certain foods can get in your way when you are trying to conceive.

What are these foods that you must stay away from when you try to conceive? Let’s take a look.

1. Trans-fats

Trans-fats are found in most packed foods like chips, biscuits, and fried snacks. If you’re trying to conceive, then get into a regular habit of checking the ingredients while buying products from the supermarket. This is because, foods filled with trans-fats can cause inflammation and insulin resistance, which lowers fertility. They can also damage blood vessels, disrupting the flow of nutrients to the reproductive system. In fact, it’s best if your partner is also away from foods containing trans-fats while trying to conceive.

Pregency Week

2. Alcohol and Caffeine

Women who are trying to get pregnant are recommended to avoid alcohol completely. Alcohol not only contributes to infertility but also depletes vitamin B, which helps during the conception period. While you don’t have to give up on your morning cup of coffee, it is advisable to limit your caffeine intake to not more than 200 milligrams.

Pregency Week

3. Meat

While meat intake is okay, you should be careful when buying it. High levels of environmental contamination may be a concern and could hamper your chances of getting pregnant. Also, tuna fish should be avoided because it contains a high level of mercury which can affect the nervous system.

Avoid these foods as much as you can and switch to a healthy diet when planning a baby.

Pregency Week

References:

https://www.aptaclub.co.uk/conception/foods-to-avoid-conception.html https://www.aptaclub.co.uk/conception/what-to-eat-conception.html https://www.dumex.com.sg/readingcorner/DIET-CHANGES-TO-MAKE-BEFORE-GETTING-PREGNANT
Back to Articles
Posted on

All You Need to Know About C-Section

A caesarean operation is a convenient way of delivery. During childbirth, if there are any complications and resultant health hazards to the mother or the baby, the doctor will recommend a C-section. The decision can be made months before the date of delivery or at the time of childbirth. Whether planned or unplanned, you do not have any cause for worry. Here’s all about the C-section and what you need to know before you go in for the procedure.

Pregency Week

The Need for Caesarean Delivery

There are several reasons why a doctor would opt for a C-section. The main objective of any doctor is to ensure that no risk hinders the life of the mother and the baby. It is possible that the complications during vaginal birth may force the doctors to make a decision favouring the C-section procedure. We present some situations requiring a caesarean delivery.

  1. The placenta shifts in such a position that it obstructs the baby’s path.
  2. The mother is carrying triplets or more.
  3. In the case of twins, C-section is recommended to avoid complications due to the awkward positioning of the babies.
  4. The pelvis is too small to accommodate the passage of the baby, or the baby is too large.
  5. You have a condition where you suffer from high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia.
  6. There is a medical emergency, and there is a threat to the baby’s life. Under such circumstances, C-section can reduce risk.
  7. The baby is in a way other than the normal position. C-section is effective in the case of breech birth, with the baby’s head positioned upwards.
  8. The umbilical cord gets in the way of the baby’s path to getting delivered.

A C-section is unavoidable in the above situations. But, it is performed under normal circumstances as well.

Here’s what happens during the procedure.

  • You will take an antacid so that it neutralises the acidity of the gastric juices. Also, you will be given antibiotics to eliminate any chances of infections.
  • An intravenous drip (IV) is introduced to keep track of your fluid levels. This will be used to deliver pain killers when required.
  • You are given a local anaesthetic, either in the form of a topical (epidural) or a spinal block. At the same time, a catheter will be used to empty the bladder.
  • A screen is set up to create a partition that hangs over your stomach.
  • The doctor will wait for the anaesthetic to take effect. When this is confirmed, the doctor begins the procedure. This involves making an incision and delivering the baby.

There is no need to worry as it is one of the safest procedures, both for you and your baby. Consult your doctor and get all the information that will help you make a decision.

References:

https://www.aptaclub.co.uk/article/c-section https://www.webmd.com/baby/what-happens-during-c-section#1
Back to Articles
Posted on

All you need to know about Preterm Baby and the Special Care they need

Babies born before the 37th week of your pregnancy are termed as pre-term or premature babies. This kind of birth creates anxiety and stress in mothers. At such times, you should try and stay calm and trust the medical service provider including your hospital and doctors.

It is true that premature babies have increased health issues but with proper care, they can be treated well. Talk to the doctor and understand what your baby will go through the next few days and also understand the precautions that you need to take once back home.

You may not be able to touch your baby immediately after birth but remember it is for the best.

We are trying to give you a brief idea here about certain terms you may come across –

What is a NICU?

Pregency Week

The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit where your baby will get care around the clock. Premature babies are not yet fully equipped to deal with the world. They may still have underdeveloped lungs, digestive & immune system and skin. The NICU gives them a protective environment and they are equipped with well-trained staff who would be at your baby’s service for 24 hours. The NICU may look overwhelming and confusing to you but this is the best care that your baby may get.

Monitoring Systems

Monitors record heart rate, respiratory rate and blood pressure on a continuous basis. Your baby may have many pads wires on the chest and other parts of the body. These are connected to the monitors to understand how well your baby’s body is working.

Breathing Assistance

If your baby is not able to breathe by himself, there are different types of respiratory assistance given to the baby which include:

Endotracheal tube – It is placed down the newborn’s windpipe to deliver warm and pure oxygen.

Ventilator – Ventilator is the breathing machine connected to the endotracheal tube that can monitor the amount of oxygen, air pressure and the number of breaths.

Incubators

If your baby is too small, incubators rather than cots may be the right option for them. It would keep the baby warm and help him better. In such cases, contact with the baby may be a difficult idea but you can talk to the nurse if and when is it possible.

Feeding

Depending on your baby’s needs, there are different ways to feed your baby while in NICU. You may not be allowed to directly breastfeed your baby Premature babies would need high nutrition and hence there are chances, proteins, vitamin and mineral supplements would be added to your breast milk.

Pregency Week

Home Care

Once you are home with your baby, make sure you take extra efforts to keep any kind of infection away from your baby. Make sure all your visitors wash their hands and then touch your baby. Your baby may take some time to build his immune system, so relax. Do not compare him with another child. Every baby is different.

References:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/baby-special-intensive-care/ https://americanpregnancy.org/labor-and-birth/premature-care/
Back to Articles
Posted on

Baby Reflux – what is it and how to treat it?

With an infant in the house, it is important for you to know about the common issues that your baby is prone to. This will help you to diagnose the problem early. One such common problem that usually occurs in infants is reflux. Some people also call it GER (gastroesophageal reflux). This is not a serious ailment and it can be treated very easily even with the help of home remedies. In this article, we will tell you more about baby reflux and how you can treat it.

Pregency Week

Baby Reflux – Meaning

When your baby starts spitting food, it is known as reflux. In this condition, your baby’s food moves up from his stomach, causing him to spit up. You don’t have to worry at all, because this problem is very common even among healthy infants. In most of the cases, you may notice reflux in babies until they turn about 18 months old. As long as your baby is healthy, content after every feed and is gaining weight regularly, you don’t have to worry about baby reflux issues.

Pregency Week

How to treat it?

Often baby reflux can be easily treated with the help of simple home remedies. If that doesn’t work, your doctor may prescribe mild medication for your baby to get rid of this issue. Paediatricians recommend surgery only in very rare cases; however, the good news is that baby reflux is completely treatable.

Home Remedies

  • Feed small quantities of food at frequent intervals, so that the contents are able to settle well in the baby’s stomach.
  • While feeding the baby and 30 minutes after feeding, ensure that your baby sits in an upright position so that there is no disturbance in the digestion process.
  • If you are breastfeeding, you can try experimenting with your diet by avoiding potential allergens such as dairy and eggs. This may help improve your baby’s reflux issues.
  • Your doctor may recommend changing the brand of formula that you are currently feeding to control reflux issues.
  • Sometimes, you could also try changing the size of the nipple of the bottle that your baby is using. This will help your baby to swallow the right amount of formula.
  • You must make your baby burp after every feed. This will help the food settle well in his stomach.

Medicines

Though reflux is not a serious ailment, your baby may require medicines if he hasn’t been gaining weight properly or has been diagnosed with an inflamed oesophagus. Sometimes, he might also have a long-standing asthma ailment, which will require him to take medicines for the reflux issue.

Surgery

In extremely rare cases, your baby’s reflux issue may make it difficult for him to breathe and feed normally. This is when doctors may recommend a surgery. This process involves tightening of the oesophagus to avoid the food to move upwards from the stomach. However, this is not a serious issue and your baby will recover very quickly.

In short, all you need to know is that baby reflux is a very common ailment that shouldn’t worry you too much. Making your baby burp and reducing the quantity while increasing the frequency of his feeds will help you see a visible improvement.

References:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/infant-acid-reflux/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351412 https://medlineplus.gov/refluxininfants.html
Back to Articles
Posted on

The Benefits of Dairy Foods During Pregnancy

Our body requires constant nourishment to grow and remain healthy. Nourishment, in the form of nutrients, can be found in several food items. Especially during pregnancy, the body requires more nutrients than usual. Therefore, it becomes vital for pregnant mums to select a diet that provides additional nourishment. An important class of foodstuff with the benefit of several nutrients is dairy foods. Here we discuss the benefits of including dairy foods in your diet.

Pregency Week

Calcium and Vitamin D for Strong Bones

It is a well-documented fact that Calcium and Vitamin D are indispensable for the development of strong bones. These also become necessary for the formation of teeth, bones and joints in the developing baby.

The human body cannot produce Calcium and Vitamin D. Therefore, you have to look for external sources that can fulfil your nutritional requirement. Dairy products such as cheese, milk, yoghurt as well as ice cream serve as excellent sources of the above nutrients.

Pregency Week

A Rich Source of Protein and Fats

Since proteins are necessary at every stage of development, it is one of the essential nutrients required during pregnancy. Proteins perform a variety of roles ranging from muscle development, brain growth and maturation, immune functions, metabolic activities etc.

Although fats have been portrayed under poor light when it comes to health, they have several important functions in the body. Fats give structural rigidity to cells and regulate the passage of materials between each cell. In the brain, fats insulate the connections between different brain cells and prevent their activation. Besides these, one of the most important roles is the formation of a protective layer over several vital organs. This prevents them from extreme cold, heat as well as physical damage.

Another essential quality of fats is the ability to utilize Vitamins like A, D, E and K. These are known as fat-soluble vitamins. Without fats, the human body would fail to absorb these nutrients irrespective of their availability.

Cheese, yoghurt and milk can serve you good amounts of fat. Along with fats, these dairy products provide additional nutrients such as Phosphorus, vitamins and minerals.

Pregency Week

A Word of Caution

Although there are several benefits of various dairy products, some of them can be detrimental to your health and your baby’s. Stay away from unpasteurized products. Pasteurization is the treatment of dairy products that eliminates harmful bacteria. Consequently, consuming unpasteurized can expose you and your baby to disease-causing pathogens. Also, it is recommended to avoid goat or sheep’s milk as it may cause indigestion.

Similarly, some varieties of soft cheese and blue cheese have high levels of listeria. It is possible that listeria can cause miscarriages in pregnant mums and illnesses in new-borns.

Another cause of worry is lactose intolerance. If this is the case, opt for aged hard cheese and yoghurt. These are found to have low lactose levels.

For more information on dairy products, visit danone.in.

References:

https://www.aptaclub.co.uk/article/why-is-dairy-important
Back to Articles
Posted on

What makes breastfeeding the right choice for you and your baby

When you’re expecting, or even just had your baby, you will be advised to breastfeed your little one by not only your doctors but your loved ones as well. It is rightly believed that breast milk is a superfood and offers a host of benefits both for you and your baby.

Experts in the medical field opine that you should exclusively breastfeed your baby for the first six months of his life, and continue to breastfeed for a further six months in tandem with solid foods. The World Health Organisation (WHO) in fact recommends that you breastfeed your baby for at least two years.

Read on to know the various benefits of breastfeeding both for you and your baby.

Pregency Week

The benefits of breastfeeding your baby

Breast milk is the perfect first food for your little one. It contains the right proportion of nutrients and can be digested with ease by the baby. Also, it is readily available and is hassle-free.

What’s interesting is that breast milk changes composition as per the growing baby’s needs, making it the complete food.

How breastfeeding helps your baby

  • The first stage of breast milk is called colostrum, which occurs during pregnancy and lasts for a few days after birth. It is thick in consistency and creamy or yellowish in colour. Colostrum is high in proteins, fat-soluble vitamins, minerals, and antibodies that provide passive immunity and contributes to the health of your little one.
  • Breast milk contains the right amount of fat, both saturated and unsaturated. These are important to build the baby’s brain and nerve tissue.
  • Vitamins, minerals and other nutrients are amply present in breast milk, all of which are necessary for your baby’s growth.
  • There are also health benefits in terms of reducing infections and illnesses in the baby, owing to the presence of antibodies. So much so, if you have the flu and continue to nurse your baby, you will actually provide your baby with antibodies that help fight that particular illness. The effects of breastfeeding are believed to last well into childhood and even into adulthood.
  • Breastfeeding also helps prevent childhood obesity, because breastfed babies are able to regulate their milk intake. Breast milk is also known to contain leptin, which is a hormone that regulates appetite and fat storage.
Pregency Week

How breastfeeding helps you

  • During pregnancy, the uterus expands such that it accommodates the growing baby with ease, practically filling the space of your abdomen. Breastfeeding helps to reduce the uterus to its previous size.
  • While diet and exercise are the primary means to lose weight post-partum, breastfeeding helps keep the weight in check for many women. This is typically 3-6 months after the birth, owing to the hormonal changes in the mother’s body.
  • Studies indicate that a breastfeeding mother is less prone to diseases such as breast and ovarian cancers. It also helps lower the risk of illnesses such as high blood pressure, arthritis, heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
  • Breastfeeding is known to release hormones that calm the mother, promoting a healthy bond between you and your baby.

The bottom line

While breastfeeding is accepted as the best food for your baby, the choice to breastfeed is a personal one. It has undeniable advantages for baby and you both, so it is best to make an informed decision.

References:

https://www.aptaclub.co.uk/baby/diet-and-nutrition/breastfeeding/benefits-of-breastfeeding.html
Back to Articles
Posted on

Preparing for Birth

Pregency Week

1. Labour and Birth

So, the longest 40 weeks of your life are almost over. As much as you are excited to see the baby, I am sure you are waiting to have your normal self-back, to sleep on your stomach, to bend and pick up things yourself and to just be the way you were.

But the idea of labour can get scary and you may get anxious about how those few hours in the labour room are going to be like. A little planning before labour will make life easier and you would find make the birthing process more comforting and convenient.

Be prepared for your baby’s arrival:

2. Join a Class and meet other pregnant Women

Take a birthing class to learn about the stages of labour. These birthing classes help in pain management and breathing techniques. It also helps you understand the hospital and medical equipment’s that may be used during your pregnancy. Meet other pregnant women and talk about how you feel.

3. Do your Research

Every labour is different, and your body is unique. Do your research on the internet, understand different types of delivery. Watch videos and empower yourself. Many women must undergo C-section and that’s perfectly fine. It is best to be understand the pros and cons and be ready for the type of pregnancy coming your way. Talk to other veteran moms and listen to their experiences. You experience would be different from them but when you talk, you may just learn from their mistakes.

Pregency Week

4. Exercise

Labour and giving birth is an extensive t process. Your body has been going through many changes through the last 40 weeks and now is the time to prepare your body for the d-Day. You will need strength and stamina to get your baby out. You should ideally undergo some prenatal massage, yoga classes and gentle exercise for moms- to -be to ease out the pain and shorten your labour. Birth yoga helps your baby to be in the correct position and it also provides breathing techniques to you to stay calm. But please do remember that whatever you opt for, at first have a discussion with your doctor regarding that.

5. Stay Positive

Keep all the negative thoughts and people away from you, you don’t deserve or need any more stress. This is a happy phase and trains your mind to stay positive and be happy. Do what you like – Listen to Music, read a Book or just talk to your family. You are going to be welcoming your baby in a few days and you want to do that with a happy mind.

6. Prepare for the Hospital

Pack your hospital bags and explain to your partner about things you will need at the hospital. Create a checklist, spend some time with people who are going to be with you during your hospitalization and explain your expectations to them.

7. Prepare your Home

Your home needs to be cleaned every day and there should be no room for your newborn to catch any infection. If you have another baby or a pet, prepare them for the new arrival. You are going to need help after you come home, so talk to your family or hire some help.

References:

https://www.aptaclub.ie/preparing-for-labour-3/ https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/what-happens-during-labour-and-birth/?tabname=im-pregnant
Back to Articles
Posted on

Top reasons why you need to start your pregnancy exercises right now

Pregnancy is the most beautiful phase in a woman’s life. This is the time when you are responsible for another life that is growing beautifully inside you. You have to do whatever it takes to ensure that you and your baby stay fit and healthy throughout your pregnancy. What better way to keep yourself healthy than pregnancy exercises? In this article, we will tell you why these exercises are important and some tips you need to follow while exercising.

Pregency Week

Benefits of pregnancy exercises for the mother

Many studies have proved that doing safe and correct exercises during pregnancy can have a very positive impact on the mother’s and baby’s health. As a mother, how do you stand to gain? Read on:

  • Simple exercises such as walking and stretching can prevent you from putting on too much weight during pregnancy.
  • When you keep yourself active by doing some physical exercises, you are making yourself less prone to prenatal depression, gestational diabetes, and pregnancy fatigue
  • You will see a visible improvement in ailments such as chronic back pain, headaches, and constipation when you exercise regularly during pregnancy.
  • There is a high chance of you delivering naturally and avoiding a caesarean section at the time of delivery, thanks to regular exercises; however, this is not entirely true. Many pregnant women who stay fit throughout their pregnancy may be recommended for a C-section based on last-minute health risks.
Pregency Week

Benefits of pregnancy exercises for the baby

When you stay fit and exercise regularly during your pregnancy, you are playing a big role in the overall health and development of your baby. How? These reasons will help you understand the same:

  • Pregnancy exercises, when done properly and regularly, leads to the healthy functioning of the baby’s vital organs such as the heart, lungs and nervous system.
  • It is highly likely that your baby is of normal weight at the time of birth, if you have been exercising without fail, all through your pregnancy.
  • Your baby is less prone to birth deformities, low-immunity, and respiratory issues, thanks to your fitness regimen
Pregency Week

Some exercises that are highly recommended for you

Walking, water exercises, prenatal pilates, weight-training and prenatal yoga are the top 5 safe exercises that are recommended for pregnant women by doctors. Choose the one that suits your body the best, after a detailed consultation with your doctor and keep exercising regularly. Consistency is the key to experience the benefits that we mentioned above.

What should you note?

While it is important to exercise regularly, you should take extreme care while exercising during pregnancy.

  • Healthy meals and lots of fluids are a must so that you don’t feel dehydrated during exercises.
  • Wear loose and comfortable clothes so that you are not putting your baby at risk anytime during your postures
  • Stick to basic exercises like walking and low-intensity workouts; avoid any kind of exercise that is adventurous or dangerous (mountain biking, gymnastics, etc.)
  • Never do any exercises without proper warm-ups. You need to prepare your body well before you indulge in any kind of exercise to avoid injuries or health risks

References:

https://www.aptaclub.co.uk/pregnancy/health-and-wellbeing/exercise/pregnancy-exercise-benefits.html https://americanpregnancy.org/pregnancy-health/exercise-during-pregnancy/
Back to Articles