You are more susceptible to constipation during pregnancy. Your digestion slows down to make sure you absorb as many nutrients from food as possible, so that you have enough to nourish yourself and your baby. This slow digestive system could cause constipation. As your uterus grows, the increased pressure on your digestive system could also cause constipation.

Symptoms of constipation

If you are having difficulty when passing stools, you may be suffering from constipation. Common symptoms include:

• dry and lumpy stools
• abnormally large/small stools
• stomach ache
• stomach cramps
• bloating
• nausea
• loss of appetite

Foods that can relieve constipation during pregnancy

Something as simple as changing what you eat could actually make you feel a whole lot better. The following foods could relieve your constipation, and help get things ticking over once again:

1. Berries– grab yourself a bowl of mixed berries. Strawberries, blueberries and blackberries are all high in fibre, and could help to relieve your constipation.

2. Prunes – your grandma probably swears by this treatment, and that’s because it works. You can eat the prunes, or buy a carton of prune juice to enjoy. Prunes are high in fibre, and contain a natural laxative.

3. Beans – beans are one of the best sources of dietary fibre. Add beans to stews, soups, curries and salads to increase your intake of fibre. You could also sit down to a plate of baked beans on toast – but make sure the toast is on wholemeal bread, because white bread could actually make your constipation worse.

4. Dried fruits – dried fruits are full of fibre, and a great way to relieve constipation. Raisins, apricots, pineapple, prunes, dates and figs are all full of dietary fibre. Snack on dried fruits throughout the day.

5. Cereal – choose a high-fibre cereal to help relieve constipation. The cereal will usually say whether it’s high fibre, or you can check the nutrition table on the box. Sprinkle some flaxseed on top for extra oomph.

When to call your healthcare provider

If you are suffering from persistent constipation, contact your healthcare provider for advice. Your doctor may prescribe a laxative, and only certain laxatives are safe to use during pregnancy.

Do you have any tips to relieve constipation?

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.

Picking a name for your unborn child can feel like a pretty daunting decision. It’s not exactly something you want to regret later, and you won’t be able to change your mind once that birth certificate is signed. To help you get it right first time, here’s a few things to consider:

Boy or girl
For those of you not finding out the gender of your baby, you have double the trouble when it comes to choosing names. Make sure you select an option for either sex, even if you have a strong feeling it’s a girl. Many new parents have been caught out by having a baby boy when they’d only chosen a girl’s name. Even if you’ve found out the gender during pregnancy, it’s always a good idea to have a backup name for the opposite sex because scans aren’t always 100 per cent accurate.

A name for life
The name you choose for your child will be theirs for life, so it’s important to make sure it’s the right one. Some names that sound adorable for a baby, may start to sound silly if you imagine them belonging to an adult in a senior job. Imagine how the name might grow with your child, this will help to determine whether you’ve selected the right name.

Surname
Does the name sound good with the baby’s surname? It sounds obvious, but it’s important to check so you don’t end up with a little Ben Dover! Don’t just check the full first name, try it out with the initial too. You can never be too careful where playground taunts are involved!

Nicknames
Bear in mind that, at some point, your child’s name is likely to get shortened to a nickname. Think of all the possible variants for your selected name, and make sure you like those too. If you love Christopher but hate Chris, then that might not be the name for you.

Meanings
You might like to find out the meaning of your favourite names as this could help to shape your decision. If you’re struggling to choose between two, discovering that one means “achiever” and one means “misery” could be just the tie breaker you need.

International names
If you have a very international lifestyle, you may want to choose a name that works in English, French, Spanish etc. A name that could be understood and pronounced easily in any one of those languages, without spelling changes or adaptations. And which doesn’t feel immediately “foreign” in other countries.

If you’re struggling to agree on a name, you could try asking close friends and families for their opinions. Though this strategy comes with the added risk that people may dislike all of the names on your carefully thought out shortlist.

The most important factor to consider when choosing your baby’s name, is whether you and your partner like it. If you can both agree on a name, and can’t think of any reasons why not to choose it, then it seems you’ve found your name.

There’s nothing wrong with changing your mind. If you have had a favourite name in mind for weeks, and then all of a sudden go right off it, that’s fine. Start the process again. At the very least, you’ll have a few back up favourites for if you change your mind in the delivery suite.

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.

Many pregnant women worry about the appearance of pregnancy stretch marks, and a question often asked is whether it is possible to avoid them. Around eighty per cent of pregnant women will develop stretch marks. For some, they may just be a silver glisten around the thighs, whereas for others could develop thick purple stretch marks across their bump.

What are stretch marks?
Stretch marks are narrow streaks or lines that appear on the surface of the skin. Areas most likely to develop pregnancy stretch marks include the bump, thighs and breasts. It’s obvious why – there’s a lot of stretching taking place while you’re busy growing a new person.  It’s not unusual to go up a few cup sizes during pregnancy, and these changes can happen suddenly so it’s no wonder the skin on your breasts can get a little stretched. Likewise with your bump, the baby pads out in the past few weeks and you’ll notice your bump ballooning then too.

Even women who have avoided stretch marks throughout the rest of the pregnancy, often find they develop some during the last couple of weeks. Some pregnant women report stretch marks appearing across their hips around this time due to the excess weight combined with the loosening and widening of the pelvic area.

Can I prevent pregnancy stretch marks?
There are a whole host of creams, lotions and oils on offer claiming to prevent stretch marks. There is little science to back up the claims made by these products, and so it is unclear whether this is worth the investment.

It is important to keep your skin moisturised during pregnancy anyway, regardless of whether it will prevent stretch marks. Be sure to stay hydrated. If you don’t want to cover your bump in chemicals, you can moisturise using a natural product such as organic coconut oil which will help to hydrate your skin.

Stretch marks are thought to be hereditary. So, if your mum has stretch marks from carrying you, chances are you are going to get them too, regardless of how many oils and lotions you cover yourself in.

In time they will fade
One of the good things about the bump is, it’s probably big enough to obscure your view of the stretch marks during those last couple of months. But, once the baby is born, and your body slowly starts shrinking back down, you may be disappointed to discover stretch marks across your skin.

In the months immediately after the birth, the stretch marks will be red or purple and probably quite noticeable, but in time they will fade. They will become thinner and the purple hue will fade to a pale silver, and they will be less noticeable. Rejoice in your body – these are the badges of courage!

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.

For the working pregnant woman, planning for maternity leave is something she needs to think about as she enters the third trimester. In some instances, maternity leave is a no-brainer, and as soon as you deliver you will take leave for the legally allotted amount of time per your employer. In the United States, parents can file for maternity leave under the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) which offers 3 months of unpaid leave to take care of personal medical issues – childbirth being one of them. Though some employers do offer paid leave, it is rare in the US. Other countries have much stronger maternity leave laws that support working moms in their transition to motherhood.

What can be most difficult is that you don’t necessarily know exactly when your maternity leave will start. Ideally, your maternity leave would commence upon labor and delivery. However, if you have any medical conditions (such as pre-term labor) that put you on bed rest, your maternity leave will start earlier. This is why it is important to begin planning at the beginning of or near the third trimester.

The first order of business is to speak with your human resources officer to find out what your company offers. Learn what laws exist in your country. You may also want to save up your vacation time so that you can take paid leave time to be with your baby. This may involve rescheduling or cancelling your vacations. Additionally, if you love your job and want to return to it – this can be an ideal time to discuss work-from-home or telecommuting options with your employer. This option can buy you more time to be home with your baby after delivery. Many employers today are open to new working conditions.

If you are dreaming of quitting your job to be a stay-at-home mom, you need to make sure you and your baby have health insurance. If your job provides the health insurance, quitting your job without an alternative plan can be financially devastating. If you plan on quitting, it is important to communicate as such to your boss beforehand, out of courtesy, but also so you don’t burn any bridges you may need to cross a few years later when you reenter the workforce.

Be reminded that discrimination against pregnant woman is illegal. You have both legal rights and responsibilities that are clearly outlined in laws to protect you and your job. That being said, it is important to communicate with your boss and employers throughout your pregnancy so that they aren’t blind-sided by you leaving.

Another aspect of planning for maternity leave is getting your work house in order. Train others to do what you do, make sure that your files and professional works are easily accessible, and make sure your office is clear of personal items that others may find upon your absence when rummaging through your office. If all of your professional ducks are in a row, you will feel more comfortable leaving your job. It can alleviate some personal stress in the later months of your pregnancy and early postpartum.

Your maternity leave is a time in your life you will cherish forever. These weeks and months will enable you to get to know your baby and ease you into the realities of being a mother. By planning early, talking with your employer and helping others to plan for your absence, you will be able to enjoy this time to the fullest.

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 2018. All rights reserved.

As soon as your bump begins to show, your body seems to become public property. Friends, colleagues and relatives may be clambering round, desperate to get a feel of the bump, and comment on the size of it. In fact, you may find that strangers are also not shy about coming forward with their own personal opinions about your bump.

Does my bump look big in this?

If friends and relatives keep greeting you with cries of, “Oh my, are you sure you’re not having twins?!” it’s no wonder you’re starting to doubt yourself. If complete strangers are running up to you in the street to say, “You must be due any day now,” when you are only six months pregnant, you may be starting to worry about the size of your bump.

Is my bump too small?

Having a small bump is no picnic either, because people will want to comment on that just as much. From jaws hitting the ground when you say your due date (followed by “oh my, but your bump is so tiny,”), to questions from friends and family about whether you’re eating properly.

The right size

The important thing to remember, is that there is no right size for your bump. All women, and all pregnancies, are unique. Bump size can be influenced by lots of factors, including:

• the number of pregnancies – first pregnancies tend to be smaller bumps because tummy muscles are tighter

• the number of babies – women carrying multiples often have bigger bumps

• the amount of fluid – it’s not just baby in there, the amount of fluid in your uterus could also affect your bump size

• the baby’s position – you may notice that your bump changes shape each time your baby changes position

• your posture – your bump may look bigger or smaller if you stand in certain ways

Bump size: Does it matter?

In a word – no. The only thing that matters is your healthcare provider’s measurements of the baby. At each appointment, your healthcare provider will ask you to lie flat, so that she can check the position of the baby, and take a measurement. This helps your healthcare provider to monitor the baby’s growth. More detailed measurements will also be taken during any ultrasound scans.

There are a small number of conditions that can affect bump size. These conditions are rare, but your healthcare provider is trained to spot the symptoms. If your healthcare provider is concerned about the size of your bump, you will be offered further tests, such as an ultrasound to check the size of your baby.

If you are concerned about the size of your bump, speak to your healthcare provider for advice.

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.

What causes itchy skin during pregnancy?

Increased blood flow during pregnancy can lead to mild itchiness. Your skin may also feel itchy as it stretches to accommodate your changing body. Some women report itchy skin on their breasts during periods of growth, and some experience itchy skin on their bellies as their bumps increase in size. Mild itching is quite common during pregnancy, and often nothing to worry about, however it can be uncomfortable.

The following tips may help you to manage itchy skin during pregnancy:

• stay hydrated – drinking enough water can help your skin to stretch more easily. Remember, you need to drink more water now that you’re pregnant, even if it means more trips to the bathroom.
• moisturise – using moisturisers may help to reduce itchiness. Using a natural, chemical-free moisturiser such as extra virgin organic coconut oil may help to relieve any discomfort.
• wear loose fitting clothes – avoid tight clothes that prevent air circulation and may further irritate your skin.
• choose natural fibres – dressing in natural fibres such as cotton and bamboo may help to keep itchiness under control. Synthetic fabrics such as nylon and lycra may increase itchiness by prevent air from circulating.
• be kind to your skin – avoid strong perfumes, chemicals and lotions. Use products for sensitive skin, and try to use natural, organic products where possible. Always wear gloves when cleaning to avoid chemicals coming into contact with your skin.

Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP)

In some cases, itchiness can be caused by ICP, a serious liver condition specific to pregnancy. The condition is caused by high levels of bile acids in the liver, and can be fatal for the developing baby. ICP is characterised by unexplained itching, which may or may not be accompanied by a rash. Some women also report feeling generally unwell and tired, and some women find their urine is darker than normal. Other symptoms include jaundice, and pale bowel movements.

For some women, the itchiness is non-stop and can be unbearable, leading to excessive itching to the point of bleeding. Non-stop itchiness can also lead to depression. ICP can occur as early as six weeks into the pregnancy, although it is more common towards the end of the pregnancy. Unfortunately, there is no cure for ICP, though the condition will clear up on its own after the birth.

If you think you may have ICP, contact your doctor immediately. If diagnosed with this condition, you will require regular monitoring throughout the pregnancy. There is an increased risk of stillbirth and premature labour, so your liver function will be tested regularly for the remainder of your pregnancy.

If the itching is unbearable, your doctor may be able to prescribe a cream or lotion to reduce itchiness. Speak to your healthcare provider about treatment options for this condition.

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.

The summer vacation season may be winding down, but this doesn’t mean that you aren’t ready for a vacation, right? But is it safe to take off on that trip to the beach while you are expecting? Find out now with these pregnancy travel tips.

According to experts traveling during pregnancy if you are not having any complications, is considered safe and doesn’t pose any health risks. That being said, most physicians will recommend that you avoid flying or long distance travel late in the third trimester. In fact, some airlines have restrictions that keep women from flying from the 36th week of pregnancy onward without some form of medical waiver. If you DO have medical conditions then it is best that you discuss any and all travel plans with your doctor beforehand.

The biggest concerns of pregnancy travel have to do with you becoming exhausted, dehydrated or uncomfortable. When you are flying, or spending a lot of time sitting in one position, you can become uncomfortable and often, forget to make sure that you are hydrating properly. This can cause stress on your body. It is important that you take time to get up and move around periodically during your travel and keep water on hand at all times, especially if you are flying. One of the side effects of air travel is dehydration and this can cause the onset of contractions if it gets out of hand.

It is also important to make sure that you are feeling up to travel before planning a trip. Even though you may want to capitalize on your last chance to have a romantic vacation with your partner before the baby arrives, you need to be feeling well in order to enjoy it. Instead of planning a long distance trip, or one that requires excess energy – choose for a simple weekend getaway. This way you are close to home AND will get some time away in.

Also consider this. If you are a working mom, then you may want to save your vacation time for after the baby arrives. Depending on where you live and what the laws designate – you may find that saving your vacation time for when the baby arrives will suit you best. Plus, chances are there will be lots of long distance family members that may want to see you and your baby. (Extra babysitters, anyone?)

Another tip if you do decide to vacation, is to make sure you pack comfortable clothes and shoes! Sitting on an airplane, or in a car and walking long distances can quickly become exhausting if you aren’t prepared. Try not to overschedule yourself during your vacation so you won’t come home more tired than you were when you left.

Zika virus alert: Zika is a virus spread by mosquitos that typically causes a mild and short-lived infection. The Zika virus can, however, cause very serious birth defects if your fetus is exposed. If you’re pregnant or plan to become pregnant, health experts recommend postponing any non-essential travel to areas of the world where Zika virus is prevalent. Zika has been found in Central and South America, the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, a number of Pacific island countries, and several countries in Africa. In the US, Zika has been found in Florida. If you’re planning to travel to one of these areas, speak with your healthcare provider about the best way to protect yourself and your unborn baby.

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.

If you are like many pregnant parents, you cannot wait until the day you get the ultrasound that will announce the sex of your baby.  Here you have been thinking up baby names, and planning on decorating the nursery. You may be so certain that you are having one sex or the other that you have even bought clothes in pink or blue. Maybe there is a lot of pressure from extended family to have a girl or a boy.

But what happens when and if you were wanting one gender and then find out that you are getting another? Dealing with gender disappointment can be difficult.

The cliché is that all pregnant parents want a healthy baby – and that is really all that matters.  Yet still, there are many people who feel disappointed, let down or perhaps surprised when they find out the sex of their baby, especially if it is not in line with what they thought they were having, or what they think they want.

When it comes to pregnancy, we certainly don’t have a lot of control. And for most people – being disappointed with the gender while pregnant is NOT something that you can talk about with others. It would make you appear ungrateful, or even mean, or awful – right?  The reality however is that this ‘let down’ about the gender of a baby DOES happen.

The good news, from a mother of 4 girls – is that regardless of what you think you want – you will love your baby just the same. Some women are afraid to have girls because they don’t have good relationships with their own mothers and worry that the same thing will happen to them. Some women are afraid they won’t share much in common with a son. Others believe that their partners want a son rather than a daughter and worry that the news will disappoint their partner. The equations of feelings and emotions when you find out the sex of your baby are endless. This is one reason that many people prefer to just wait until delivery day.

The truth of the matter, however, is that you are going to have what you have.

It is okay to recognize that you may be shocked, surprised, disappointed or let down. Dealing with gender disappointment doesn’t mean you are going to be an awful parent. In fact, one thing you can be guaranteed is that the day you see your baby for the first time – you will forget what you ever wanted before and realize that EVERYTHING you ever wanted is planted firmly in your arms. 

Life has an amazing way of giving us gifts that we never knew we wanted. Allow yourself to feel your emotions – and don’t beat yourself up for whatever it is you feel the day you find out the sex of your baby. Your baby girl or baby boy came to you FOR A REASON – and when it’s all said and done, everything will be perfect.

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.

No two pregnancies are the same, so your delivery experience is totally unique to you and your baby. However, there are certain things all women will go through during pregnancy and delivery. That’s what makes prenatal classes an important addition to your pregnancy – to familiarize yourself with what to expect. If you ask around, you may get mixed reviews. It’s important, therefore, to do your research before you decide which prenatal classes are best for you during pregnancy.

With so much pregnancy-related information available through books, magazines and the Internet, a lot of people tend to think prenatal classes are merely a waste of time. However, there are still several reasons why you should consider taking these classes.

What Are Prenatal Classes About?

Prenatal classes are designed to prepare you for the birth of your son or daughter by covering aspects of pregnancy, labor, birth, and early parenting. In your third trimester, your healthcare provider may suggest you take prenatal classes. Two popular methods are Lamaze and The Bradley Method. The Bradley method focuses on natural childbirth and nutrition, while the Lamaze class teaches you about labor pain relieving strategies and breathing techniques, among other topics.

For all women, and first time moms especially, pregnancy can be difficult at times and can cause anxiety. Most of this anxiety roots from the lack of knowledge. With the help of prenatal classes, you can learn more about your pregnancy and recognize what is normal and what might require more attention. You can even figure out what are symptoms or signs that you may have to go get checked out by your healthcare provider. Knowing what to expect always makes things a bit easier!

What Will You Learn From These Classes?

Prenatal classes are usually based on lectures, discussions and exercises that are all designed to help you prepare for labor and early parenthood. If you have gone through these classes, you will be in a better position to make informed decisions when the need arises. Here are some things are usually discussed in these classes:

• How to recognize labor pains
• How the typical labor progresses
• What type of medical interventions you can expect during childbirth
• How you can prepare your body for childbirth
• Different relaxation techniques
• Different types of birthing positions
• The possible pain relief choices available and a guide to their usage and implications
• A guide to possible complications that might occur during pregnancy and the decisions you can make
• Learning about a cesarean birth
• Breastfeeding information
• The basics of childcare for a newborn

Why Do You Need These Classes?

The most valid argument that people have against prenatal classes is that birthing is second nature to women. While birthing may be natural, and pregnancy will progress similarly, these classes will prepare you for the road ahead. Understanding what will be happening to your body can actually help you cope with it in a much better way!

Why Should You Take Your Partner With You?

Prenatal classes encourage your partner to get more involved in the birth of your child.  Your partner has the opportunity to learn what you will be going through, and will learn how to be supportive and appreciative of the wonderful process of pregnancy and birth. Partners can sometimes be as anxious as those who are pregnant when it comes to the birth of their child, so prenatal classes can help ease the anxiety and prepare both people for the future. Making decisions during pregnancy is always tough, so make sure you plan ahead and discuss all options with your partner. It’s always easier to make decisions when you have loved ones to help and guide you.

If you have any experiences with taking prenatal classes, let us know! Or if you prefer the Bradley method or the Lamaze method – tell us what you liked about them.

Written by Team Health & Parenting

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.

Are you expecting a baby this year? Naming your baby is the first major decision that you make as parents. Since there are baby names as many as the stars in the night sky, finding the right one for your child may take some time. To help you with this important milestone, here are some baby name trends that will be prominent this 2013.

Top Searched Baby Names for Girls and their Meanings

1. Millie – industrious, gentle, and strong.
2. Ann – “God has favoured me”
3. Charlotte – free
4. Emma – entire, universal
5. Ella – foreign
6. Isabella – “God’s promise”
7. Sookie – lily
8. Eithne – kernel
9. Ellie – noble, famous warrior, sunshine
10. Betty – God’s promise

Top Searched Baby Names for Boys and their Meanings

1. Jacob – substitute
2. Mo – dark-skinned
3. Gus – staff of the Goths
4. Aiden ­– little fire
5. Liam – strong-willed warrior
6. Ted – divine gift
7. Max – greatest
8. Bertie – noble, bright, famous
9. Andy – man, warrior
10. Ned – wealthy protector

Celebrity Baby Names

Three celebrities have chosen names that geographic in nature. Reese Witherspoon named her son Tennessee in honour of her home state. Alicia Keys and Mariah Carey both named their sons after African countries: Egypt and Morocco respectively.

A celeb boy “it” name for 2013 is Camden, an edgy pick which means winding alley. Other celebrities also pick colours as their inspiration. Beyonce name her daughter blue ivy while Alicia Silverstone named her son Bear Blu. Drew Barrymore picked Olive and Jennifer Garner named her sweet daughter Violet.

Short and Sweet Baby Names

Many of the top searched baby names have one thing in common – they are three to four letters long. One of the top searches was for one-syllable names, meaning new parents may want to give formal names a boot, such as Ted for Theodore and Andy instead of Andrew.

When choosing baby names for your child, it is important to consider some factors such as sound and compatibility, uniqueness, relatives and friends, ancestry and heritage, initials and nicknames, and meaning. However, the main criteria should always be that you and your partner like it!

Remember these names are closely tied to the identity of your child. So, make sure that you pick a name that will not make your baby a laughing stock when he or she grows up.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Health & Parenting Ltd disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. All contents copyright © Health & Parenting Ltd 2013. All rights reserved.