The world seems to be filled with products claiming to be essential items for your newborn. Companies are practically jumping out of catalogues screaming “buy me!”. Nappy (diaper) brands and toy shops seem to be vying for your attention as you sit down to watch TV. You can’t even open a newspaper these days without baby-related coupons falling into your lap. The baby product market is huge, and continues to grow each year.

It won’t surprise you to hear that you don’t really need to buy every single product available for babies, but how do you know which ones to buy? Here’s a new baby checklist for you:

Clothes
This is probably one of the most enjoyable purchases, because the clothes are so tiny and adorable. But – yes, a but – there’s no need to break the bank. Your baby will probably receive lots of clothes from admiring visitors, so you really only need to buy the essentials. You will need:

• seven bodysuits
• seven sleepsuits
• a hat (for warmth or shade, depending on the season)
• knitwear (cardigans are easy to put on and take off – avoid jumpers for the first few months)
• socks or booties
• a few bibs

It’s unlikely that you’ll get through the pregnancy without buying at least one outfit for your unborn child, so do enjoy the odd splurge.

Changing
Now we’re getting to the less glamorous side of parenting – dirty nappies (diapers). During the first year, your baby will require around 3000 nappy changes. Yes, you read that right. For this wonderful pastime, you will need:

• diapers (cloth or disposable)
• wipes (washable or disposable)
• a changing mat
• nappy rash cream (or coconut oil, if you’d like a natural alternative)

Sleeping
Newborn babies sleep a lot, some up to 18 hours a day, so you want to make sure they’re comfortable. You’ll need to buy:

• a bed – this could be a side sleeper to attach to your bed, a crib, a bassinet, or a cot. Your baby will probably spend at least the first six months sleeping in your bedroom, so think about this when choosing a bed for your newborn
• growbags or sleep sacks – these are considered safer than blankets, so it’s worth investing in a couple of these
• blankets – these are great for when your out and about, or having a cuddle on the sofa
• bedding – your baby will need a firm mattress and sheets for his bed. Be sure the mattress fits the bed well. Do not use a pillow or blankets for a sleeping baby

Feeding
Your feeding purchases will depend on whether you decide to breast- or bottle-feed your baby. For breastfeeding, you may need:

• burp cloths
• a nursing pillow
• nipple cream
• breast pads
• nursing bras

For bottle fed babies, you will need to buy:

• 4-ounce bottles and teats
• 8-ounce bottles and teats
• formula (speak to your healthcare provider for information on deciding which brand to use)

Health and safety
It’s easy to overlook the safety aspects of having a newborn in the house, but you shouldn’t. You will need:

• a first aid kit
• a digital ear thermometer
• baby nail clippers
• a baby monitor

Toys
For the first few months of life, your baby won’t pay much attention to toys, but you may like to have a few to hand just in case. You may like to purchase:

• a couple of books
• a rattle
• a teether

Remember, your baby will probably receive a few toys as gifts, so you don’t need to buy lots.

The biggies
You will need to buy the following big items in preparation for your baby’s arrival:

• a car seat – this is a must-have. They won’t let you leave the hospital without it, so make sure you have one before you go into labour
• a sling – slings are a great way to carry your baby and keep your hands free for other things. Babies love hearing your heartbeat and being close to you, a sling is a great way to offer that while still being able to get things done
• a stroller – you may like to buy a stroller for out and about too, although you can choose to use the sling full-time, if you prefer
• a chest of drawers – you will need somewhere to keep all of your baby’s things, so it’s worth investing in some furniture, too.

Have you got all of the above in preparation for your baby’s birth? Do you think this list is missing any essential items?

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.

Sometime around week 19 of the pregnancy, it becomes possible for an ultrasound to pick up the sex of your baby. If you are offered an ultrasound from this point onwards, you may be given the opportunity to learn the sex of your baby.

On the day
Unfortunately, it may not always be possible to determine the sex of the baby using ultrasound. There are various factors that could prevent this, including the position of your baby during the scan, the equipment used and the expertise of the sonographer. If your baby has his or her legs covering his genitals during your appointment, you may have to wait until the birth to find out the sex after all.

Accuracy
Ultrasound is not a foolproof way to determine the sex of your baby, and unfortunately inaccuracies are sometimes reported. The sonographer will usually state that they can’t be completely sure of your baby’s sex. There are stories of shocked mums, surrounded by pink onesies and tutus, being told, “It’s a boy!” in the delivery suite.

Choosing not to know
If you decide not to find out the sex of your baby, you should inform the sonographer of this in advance. During scans in late pregnancy, it is sometimes possible for you to see the genitals of the baby, so your sonographer will tell you when to look away.

Should I find out?
Finding out the sex of your baby is a very personal decision, and one that you and your partner will have to make together. You should discuss it in advance, go through the points raised below, and work out how you both feel about it. Once you’ve made a decision, stick with it.

Here are some reasons that people choose to find out the sex:

• Finding out the sex of your baby means you are able to finalise his or her name before the birth. It also means you’ll have half the work to do, because you won’t be wasting your time coming up with names for the wrong sex.
• Knowing the sex of your baby means you can plunge head first into the important task of teeny tiny outfit buying. You’ll know whether you should be browsing in the frilly tutu or the baby blue aisle.
• Some people choose to find out so that they can decorate the nursery accordingly before the birth.

However, there are also some convincing arguments for not finding out the sex:

• Not knowing the sex of the baby will help you to avoid the gender stereotyping of ‘pink for girls’ and ‘blue for boys’. There are lots of cute outfits designed to be unisex, so your baby won’t be underdressed if you choose not to find out.
• Some women claim that not knowing the sex helped them to work harder during the pushing stage of labour.
• Some parents choose to avoid finding out by ultrasound because of the inaccuracy of this method. To avoid the small chance of a mix up, some parents decide it’s better not to know at all.
• There are so few good surprises in life – why not choose this to be one of them?

Will you find out the sex of your baby? How did you reach a decision?

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.

When you’re pregnant, it seems like so much of your planning is for the birth. But have you though about what comes next? What do you need to plan for parenting. You’ve stoked up on diapers, you’ve decorated the nursery, you’ve washed all the baby clothes and assembled the crib. But what else might you need?

Consider downloading the Health & Parenting Baby+ App. Sometimes those early days are all a blur – the feedings, diapering, self-care (the brief moments you have for that!), sleep deprivation. The Baby+ App can help you keep track of it all.

Feedings: Newborns eat often. And while you think you’ll remember when baby ate last, you may find yourself thinking “was that the last feeding? Maybe that was yesterday?” Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, you can note the time and amount of the last meal for your baby. And when your baby is ready for solids, there’s space for that, too.

Diaper changes: Diaper changes are as frequent as feedings, if not more so! If you’re tracking the number of wet and dirty diapers each day to be sure your baby is getting enough to eat, the App is a convenient place to note it.

Sleep: Along with lots of diapers and feedings, babies sleep plenty. It’s just not consolidated into one long stretch like most adults. Is your baby sleeping regularly? When was his last nap? How long was it? Is he sleeping too long and missing feedings? How many times did he wake last night? The App allows you to note all this so you can look back when you’re not so sleep deprived! The sleep chart gives you a quick snapshot of when your baby is typically sleeping – so it’s easy to know when you can run to the store without interrupting a regular naptime!

Development: First smiles, rolling, sitting, holding a toy, babbling then talking … so many changes happen so fast. The App’s convenient timelines give you an idea of what to expect each week. And the daily guides will provide even more details about what to expect each week of your baby’s first year.

First smiles: The Face-a-Day feature allows you to take a picture of your baby each and every day, while the diary and memories are a baby book at your fingertips!

Other features include:

• a white noise generator and a collection of lullabies – in case you’ve got a baby who won’t settle into sleep and you need a little extra help,
• breastfeeding tips and videos,
• logs for vaccinations, medications and doctor visits, and
• tips for your own postpartum recovery.

The App is designed to continue where the Pregnacny+ App left off – at the birth of your new baby. You can continue to track baby’s progress up to his first birthday. The App can be used for more than one child – giving you a handy place to check how often your firstborn fed when you’re trying to figure out if your second born is eating often enough.

Have you tried the Health & Parenting Baby+ App yet? What are your favorite features?

Written by Michelle, writer, editor, childbirth educator, lactation consultant, 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 2017. All rights reserved.

Congratulations, you’re expanding your family. You are getting ready to welcome your first child into the home, and while over the moon, you may be a bit worried how your pet will react. Whether you have a dog, cat, rabbit or budgie, your pets are likely a central part of your family.

While on the one hand you may be worried about your baby’s safety around the new pet, you are probably also concerned that your pet will feel pushed out or lonely once the baby arrives. You may worry that you won’t have the time to commit to looking after your pet once you become a mother. How can you go about preparing your pet for the baby?

Firstly, there is no need to get rid of your pet because you are expecting a baby. You can prepare your pet for the arrival of a baby, help them to deal with any stress and uncertainty it may cause, and prepare them for life as part of a larger family now.

How will my pet react?
When the baby arrives, your pet may feel a bit jealous, something similar to the sibling rivalry experienced by older children. It is unavoidable that with the addition of a baby to the family, you will have less time to spend with your pet. One way to make the transition easier, is to prepare your pet for this during pregnancy.

Rather than a sharp decrease in the time and attention your pet receives, try to decrease it gradually throughout the pregnancy. If your pet is particularly attached to you, encourage your partner to build a strong relationship with the pet to compensate for when the baby is hogging most of your attention.

Preparing your pet
The more preparation you do during pregnancy, the easier the transition will be. With that in mind, here are some simple tips to help prepare your pet for the new baby:

• spay or neuter your pet – sterilized pets are calmer and less likely to bite
• go to the vets – make sure your pet is up to date with vaccinations and has had a full health check before the baby arrives
• deal with any behavioural problems – if your pet nips or pounces, now is the time to break that habit
• keep your pet’s nails short
• train your pet not to jump into your lap until invited
• apply double sided sticky tape to any furniture you don’t want your pet to jump on – the crib or changing table for example

When baby arrives
Allow your pet to sniff a blanket or item of clothing with the baby’s scent on. This will allow your pet to become accustomed to the new smell. Introduce your pet to the baby carefully, and be sure to have treats handy to reward good behaviour. Try to make it a positive experience for your pet. Never leave your baby alone with your pet.

Routine is important for animals, and they can easily become stressed by routine changes. If you always walk your dog at a certain time, try to stick as closely to the routine as you can once baby arrives. This even allows you to get some exercise and fresh air each day!

Do you have any tips for how to allow your baby and animal to build a strong bond?

Have you enjoyed this article? If so, you can find plenty more great articles and useful tools in our new Baby App 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).

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.

Vitamin K is important because it helps blood clot. Around one in every 10,000 babies is born with low amounts of vitamin K, meaning they are more at-risk of bleeding. If these babies suffered internal bleeding problems, they may not have enough vitamin K to prevent a serious bleed. The risk of internal bleeding problems is prominent during the first 13 weeks of a baby’s life. This is known as vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB) or Haemorrhagic Disease of the Newborn (HDN).

Bleeding is a very serious problem for babies. Some babies may suffer bleeding during the first week of life. This could be bleeding from the nose, umbilical stump or bottom, or could even appear as spontaneous bruising. Sometimes bruising is from forceps or vacuum (ventouse) use during the delivery. Some babies experience late onset bleeding which occurs over a week after the birth date. Over half of all babies who suffer a late bleed, will have an intracranial bleed into their brain. This can cause brain damage, and can be fatal for some babies.

Does my baby need the vitamin K shot?

Some factors have been identified as high risk for VKDB, including babies who:

• were born born prematurely
• suffered breathing problems at birth
• were born by ventouse / vacuum, forceps or caesarean surgery
• were bruised during the birth
• had liver problems or were poorly at birth
• breastfed babies who are not feeding well
• were born to mothers who took epilepsy, tuberculosis or clotting medication during the pregnancy

However, a third of all babies who experience VKDB do not fit into any of the categories above. It is very difficult to tell which babies are most at risk of VKDB. For this reason, experts advise that all babies be given the shot immediately after birth. Without this, a very small number of babies born each year would suffer brain damage or die as a result of VKDB.

How is the shot administered?

Your baby will be offered the shot shortly after the birth, and this is usually something you consent to or oppose in advance. The injection is the most effective and efficient way to increase your baby’s vitamin K levels for a greater length of time.

If you prefer, you can request that the dose is taken orally, and some parents choose to do this instead. If you opt for this method, your baby will be given two doses during the first week of life, and may then be offered a third dose when your baby is a month old.

You can choose not to give your baby vitamin K at all. Whichever decision you make, you should discuss it with your healthcare provider in advance and ensure you are fully informed before making the decision.

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.

It’s never too late to stop smoking. Quitting smoking won’t be easy, but it is now more important than ever before. Each cigarette contains 4000 chemicals, 60 cancer-causing compounds, and can restrict the oxygen supply to your developing baby. Stopping smoking will be immediately beneficial to both you and your unborn child.

Each time you smoke a cigarette, your baby’s oxygen supply is reduced meaning your baby’s heart has to work much harder than it should.

How will smoking affect my baby?
There are a number of risks associated with smoking during pregnancy, including an increased risk of:

• bleeding
• placental abruption
• premature birth – smoking doubles the risk of premature birth
• low birth weight – smoking doubles the chance that your baby will weigh less than 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs) at birth
• stillbirth
• Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) – the risk of SIDS doubles if you smoke during pregnancy
• developing asthma
• developing a heart defect
• behavioural problems
• learning disabilities

How to quit
There are a number of methods in place to help you quit smoking during pregnancy, and you need to find the one which works for you. Hypnosis, financial rewards, and patches are just a few ways that other people have found successful.

• believe in yourself – confidence goes a long way where willpower is involved, so you need to believe you can quit
• if your partner smokes, ask him to quit with you
• ask your friends and family not to smoke around you
• change your routine – if you always smoke during a certain activity, try to change your routine to bypass cravings
• light exercise – exercise is a great way to beat cravings and make the most of your recovering health. You should notice week by week that your breathing capacity and stamina are improving
• build a support group – friends and family who want to help you quit, especially if they are ex-smokers themselves, will be great people to talk to during cravings
• tell your healthcare provider  – your healthcare provider will be able to help and advise you how to best stop smoking. Your healthcare provider won’t judge you. They just want to assist you, so don’t worry about asking for help
• remember your motivation – whether that means carrying a scan photo to focus on during cravings, or a factsheet of the dangers for your baby, make sure you remember why you are doing this

Cigarette cravings
If you’re giving up cigarettes, you’re probably going to experience some strong cravings. Each craving only lasts for up to five minutes, so instead of reaching for the cigarettes, find another distraction to see you through. Lollipops, chewing gum, and ringing a friend, are just a few ideas to help you fight the cravings.

What if I relapse?
If you relapse, quit again. Relapsing isn’t failure, just try again and learn from your mistakes. Now you’ve identified a weak spot (did you relapse because of stress or habit, for example?), you can avoid it happening next time. Don’t give up on giving up.

Do you have any advice to women who want to give up smoking during pregnancy?

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.

If your due date disappeared without so much as a niggle, you may be wondering when your baby is going to arrive. Since he’s already late, it’s safe to assume he didn’t receive the memo about being born on his due date, so you may want to plan some activities to keep yourself entertained.

The likelihood is that you’re all ready and raring to go, with a fully-decorated nursery, a pile of washed and ironed baby clothes, and a well-stocked changing station. If there isn’t much left to do in the way of organisation, how can you distract yourself from the long days and sleepless nights? Here are a few ideas of things to do:

1. Cook up a storm – you may already have a few meals cooked and stored in the freezer, ready for when baby arrives, but it can’t hurt to make extra. Keep cooking until the freezer is full, that will buy some extra time for cuddles with the baby when he finally arrives.

2. Take naps – napping is a skill that will come in useful when the baby arrives, but there’s no reason you can start early. If you’re struggling to sleep at night, grab a nap during the day.

3. Exercise – there’s no need to give up your exercise routine just because your due date has approached. Keep going to prenatal yoga, keep swimming, and definitely keep walking every day. Not only will this help you to relieve stress, it could help gravity to encourage the baby into a good position for birth.

4. Keep busy – ask friends and family to keep you occupied during these last few days. Pop out for meals, visit friends and watch films at the cinema – make the most of the activities you will find more difficult once baby arrives.

5. Read a book – not a pregnancy book or a parenting book, but a novel. Getting lost in a story may help to pass some time and take your mind off the ticking clock.

6. Have a massage – book yourself in for a pregnancy massage. Pregnancy massage can work wonders for the aches and pains of late pregnancy, and may help you to relax and de-stress.

7. Be honest – ask your friends and family to wait for news rather than ringing/texting/messaging you every 10 minutes to ask for it. Nothing makes time pass slower than the constant reminder that you are overdue. Tell everyone that you’ll let them know as soon as you have any news to share.

8. Baby+ App – download our new Baby App, and read up on many useful articles. Click Baby+ iOS or Baby+ Android to install the App, and prepare for the arrival of your little one(s).

Are you currently overdue? What are you doing to keep busy as you wait for your baby to arrive?

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

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

Lots of parents swear by babywearing as a way of coping with life as a new parent. Newborns aren’t keen on being put down. They will scream every time you try to make a cup of tea, and will want to feed as soon as you need to leave the house. Babywearing allows you to keep your baby close (even breastfeeding), while still having your hands free to get on with other things.

If you have other children, you may find that babywearing allows you extra time to spend with your older children. You can feed your baby in the carrier, and play with other children at the same time. That way no-one needs to feel left out, and you avoid the situation of a crying baby and tantruming toddler both vying for your attention.

So, you’ve decided to invest in a baby carrier, but a quick glimpse at the products available sends you into a panic. There are just so many choices available, and you have no idea which one will be right for you. Here’s a quick guide to choosing a baby carrier to help you out:

Stretchy wraps

These are often described as the best way to carry newborn babies. The carrier consists of a long strip of stretchy fabric which you tie round yourself. It might sound scary, but there are loads of instructional videos online showing you how to do it correctly. The wrap is tied first, and then you just pop your baby in. Once in the wrap, the baby will be carried almost weightlessly on your front, and you’ll have your hands free to do other things. You will be able to breastfeed discreetly in a stretchy wrap, and your newborn will likely find it a comfortable place to nap.

Ring slings

Ring slings are adjustable and worn over one shoulder. The ring allows you to adjust and tighten the carrier to suit your child. These carriers can be used from birth to toddler. There are a number of different styles available, and you can choose from padded and unpadded carriers. You can breastfeed in a ring sling. There are plenty of instructional videos online that show how to tighten and adjust ring slings.

Woven wraps

These are long-lasting and versatile carriers that can be used from birth to toddler. There are lots of different ties and carries to try, and although this may make it seem complicated, it does give you greater control. There are plenty of instructional videos online showing the different ties and carries. Woven wraps come in different lengths, and the required length will depend upon your size, and the carries you intend to use it for. Breastfeeding and napping are both popular activities for babies in woven wraps.

Pouch slings

Many people consider pouch slings to be the easiest type of carrier to use. There’s no tying involved, you simply pop the carrier over one shoulder and then place the baby inside. For newborns, the baby will be held across your body by the carrier, but as the baby grows and becomes stronger, he will be able to sit in an upright position. You can breastfeed in a pouch sling, and your little one will easily fall asleep snuggled into your front. Pouch slings do come in different sizes, though, and you want to be sure you get the right one for your baby. Pouch slings can be dangerous for newborns if they’re used or sized incorrectly.

Soft structured carriers

These are sometimes also referred to as “Asian style carriers” because they are based on traditional Asian carriers. These are available with buckles and as tie on carriers. The buckled carriers are arguably easier to use, although some would argue they are more difficult to adjust than a tie on carrier. These carriers can be used from birth to toddler, although many require a newborn insert to provide head support to young babies. Your baby will be able to breastfeed in the carrier, and will be fully supported if he chooses to have a nap.

With any carrier, be sure your newborn is held “close enough to kiss” – meaning high and tight against your body. Be sure baby’s chin isn’t pressed down onto his chest, so that he can breathe freely. Never allow the baby’s face to be covered by the sling fabric.

Babywearing is very popular, and there are new sling libraries popping up across the USA and UK all the time, so do contact your local sling library for more information. They will be able to show you the different types of slings available, as well as teaching you how to get the most out of your sling. Most libraries will allow you to borrow a sling for a short time to decide if it is the one for you. Baby carriers are an investment, so it’s worth doing your researching and making sure you buy the right carrier for your needs.

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

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

Baby showers are an important occasion in the social calendar of a mum-to-be. As the organiser, you want to make sure the event goes above and beyond her expectations. Having a theme can help to tie an event together. It’s important to plan the theme before sending out the invitations, so that they can correspond with the theme and give guests an idea of what to expect.

Boy/Girl Theme – If you know the sex of the baby, then this a great way to tailor the baby shower. Go for blue decorations for a boy’s shower, and pink for a girl’s. Make sure the invitations, cake, decorations, balloons and party favours all tie into the colour scheme. For a little boy, you could have toy boats and train tracks as part of the decor. For little girls, you could opt for floral decorations and some dolls to add to the effect. Even if the sex of the baby is unknown, you could still utilise the boy/girl theme by having a mixture of pink and blue decorations – and a lot of question marks.

Bookworm – When you think back to your childhood, one of the things that stands out most is probably your favourite books. From bedtime stories with your parents, to learning to read, our childhoods are filled with books. You could ask each of the guests to bring a copy of their favourite childhood book. You could even theme the party around the mum-to-be’s favourite childhood book. There are so many beautiful and colourful children’s books to choose from, and you can pick copies up for next to nothing at your local charity or thrift shop. For decoration, you can display inspirational quotes from children’s story books.

Baby Animals – Baby shops across the world are filled with animal themed products. From circus bedding, to farmyard dinner plates, you can get pretty much anything adorned in animals. Animals are a great theme for a baby shower, and it’s really easy to find inspiration. Baby animals are particularly relevant at a shower – so fill the walls with lambs, kittens and elephant calves. The great thing about this theme is that any decorations can be passed on to the mum-to-be to use in the nursery. A great centrepiece for this theme, would be a giant stuffed animal that could be given as a gift too.

Vintage Tea Party – Since the mum-to-be can’t drink and baby showers tend to take place in the afternoon, why not celebrate with a vintage inspired tea party? Think bunting, mismatched cups and saucers, and cupcake stands for decorations. For food, serve cucumber sandwiches, mini cupcakes and a victoria sponge. Ask guests to dress in vintage inspired dresses to match the surroundings.

Mocktail Party – Indulge the mum-to-be’s decadent side by hosting a mocktail party. There are loads of amazing recipes to choose from, and you certainly won’t miss the alcohol. Fruity, fizzy and milky – there are lots of different types of mocktails so try to offer a selection at the party. For the decorations, try to dress the venue like a fancy cocktail bar (or, even better, have the party at a fancy cocktail bar). Mood lighting, background music and bold colours will look great with this theme. Make sure you have all the right glasses, garnishes and decorations to make the mocktails feel extra special.

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.

It’s safe to say, we’re all a little bit more aware of our impact on the planet these days. From the methane created by farming cows, to the air miles used in the production of our new dress, we spend a lot of time feeling guilty. If you’ve ever worked out your carbon footprint, you’ll be surprised how much it increases once you add children into the mix.

In fact, while you’re running about buying baby baths, onesies and bibs, your unborn child is running up a quite substantial carbon footprint of their own. And they’re not even walking yet. If you’re hoping to raise an environmentally conscious child, you can start now by leading a good example. When choosing items for your baby’s nursery, follow the steps below to create an eco nursery for your baby (and his teeny tiny carbon footprint) to enjoy.

1. Use eco paints – the average paint (even water based) contain volatile organic compounds, chemicals and fungicides. It hardly sounds like something you want to house your baby in, does it? Eco paints are made with natural ingredients. Some eco paints are greener than others, so do some research to find the most sustainable paints before you buy. Eco paints come in a variety of colours, and are just as durable as conventional paint.

2. Furnish with love – when choosing your furniture, look for solid wood. Veneers and laminates are likely to contain a number of harmful chemicals that may be released over time. Reuse and recycle are important core messages of eco living, so consider using second hand furniture in the nursery. Your friends or family may have a chest of drawers you can have, or you might pick up a bargain at your local second hand shop. Second hand furniture can be sanded down and repainted (with eco paint) to make it look as good as new. Wear protective gear when sanding, and be sure any hand-me-down pieces meet today’s safety standards.

3. Go organic – when choosing a mattress for your baby, choose organic. Your baby will spend around 14 hours a day on the mattress, and non-organic ones contain chemicals and toxins that may be harmful for your baby to breathe in. Once you’ve selected an organic mattress, it makes sense to use organic bedding too. You should be able to find organic bedding for around the same price as non-organic bedding, so there’s really no excuse not to buy it.

4. Eco toys – you’ll probably want some toys to fill the nursery, but these don’t have to be the battery powered plastic toys that seem to flood the market. These toys often have a relatively short life cycle, and soon end up in landfill. By choosing wooden eco toys, you can give your baby toys that will last. From organic cuddly animals, to wooden instruments, your baby won’t be missing out by owning eco toys. You can find lots of great baby toys at your local charity or thrift shop too, so keep your eyes open for a great find.

5. Keep it clean – once you’ve spent time and money creating the perfect eco-bubble for your precious bundle, there’s no point coating it in harmful chemicals in the name of cleaning. Track down some organic cleaning products to use in the nursery, not only are these better for the environment but they will protect your child from coming into contact with potentially harmful chemicals.

No one is expecting you to do it all, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make a few eco purchases. Every eco decision, no matter how small, will have a positive impact on your family’s carbon footprint and, ultimately, the planet.

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.

Many women are under the assumption that as soon as they have their baby, they will automatically lose the pregnancy weight they gained. The truth is that it took your body nine months to put on the weight, and along with hormonal and physiological changes, chances are your weight loss will not be immediate.

In fact, healthy weight loss after pregnancy will take around the same amount of time as it did for you to gain it. If you lose weight too quickly, or if you go on a crash diet, chances are you won’t keep it off.

It is important to remember that eating well by consuming nutritious foods is the key to a healthy life. Additionally, the three tips will put you on the road to losing the pregnancy weight.

1.  Make time for EXERCISE. New moms are often stressed. Getting adjusted to a new schedule and taking care of a newborn takes time. One of the best things you can do for yourself is to make time for exercise. If the weather is nice, taking a walk WITH your baby can do wonders for your stress levels and your weight loss goals. When your baby is napping, forego cleaning up the kitchen and make time for an exercise DVD. In other words, don’t forget about you. Exercise can help you recharge your physical and emotional batteries, reduce stress and help with your weight loss goals. Your exercise program doesn’t have to be set in stone, and you don’t even have to leave your home.  Doing 20-30 minutes of cardio exercise per day can help boost your metabolism and help you lose weight.

2.  Drink plenty of WATER! Much of the weight gained during pregnancy is water weight gain. Strange though it seems, drinking plenty of water can help you shed the water weight gain. For breastfeeding mothers, water is also essential to your milk production. Water is a great go-to drink that you can turn to when you feel like snacking or eating empty calories. Don’t like plain water? Try adding a lemon or lime slice to give it a little flavor.

3. Make SLEEP a priority! You may have to adjust your sleeping schedule around your newborn. Not getting enough sleep can make you sluggish and slow down your metabolism. If your newborn takes a nap, nap with him. Go to bed a little earlier than usual to make up for your early mornings. And don’t be afraid to ask for help from others. One of the worst things you can do is neglect your own sleep needs. And experts have shown that a lack of restful sleep can also lead to increased cortisol levels, which can cause you to gain weight.

One of the most important things to do is to learn to love your body the way it is. Just think about the amazing miracle your body just created. Be easy on yourself and don’t judge yourself too harshly. Eventually, you will lose the baby weight – but even so, your body may be changed forever. The sooner you learn to love your new post-pregnancy body, the happier you will be.

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.

One of the most exciting parts of pregnancy is the opportunity to hear the heartbeat of your baby. The first time you hear the heartbeat of your baby will probably be at your prenatal appointments. At these visits, your provider will most likely use a handheld Doppler device to listen to your baby’s heartbeat. According to a study, the average fetal heart rate is 120-160 beats per minute. This rate will change throughout pregnancy, and your provider can use it to calculate gestational age as well as gauge the wellbeing of your baby.

A fetal Doppler device uses ultrasound to map the uterus and playback representations of the fetal heart rate. Your baby’s heart will start beating around 5 or 6 weeks gestation, and it can sometimes be heard as early as 8 weeks (with ultrasound). Typically, though, it’s not strong enough to be heard with the handheld Doppler until 12 weeks gestation. Doppler devices can be rented or purchased for home use, but this is not recommended for a number of reasons, including the potential dangers of prolonged ultrasound use. There is some controversy about whether ultrasound use is completely safe in pregnancy. The amount of ultrasound that healthcare providers use with occasional monitoring is thought to be safe; however, using a Doppler at home can lead to excessive fetal exposure to ultrasound waves with no definitive guidelines for how prolonged and repeated exposure can impact growing tissues.

Luckily there are other ways to listen to your baby’s heartbeat at home, without the use of ultrasound waves.

Below some ways to listen SAFELY to the heartbeat of baby at home.

• A standardstethoscope can amplify the baby’s heartbeat around weeks 18 to 20 of pregnancy. Quality matters – the better the craftsmanship, the more likely you are to hear your baby’s heartbeat.
• APinard Horn, traditionally made of wood, has one end that is placed against mom’s belly and the other against the listener’s ear. The fetal heartbeat can be detected around 18 to 20 weeks of pregnancy. While mom can’t do this herself, her partner may be able to use it to hear the baby’s heartbeat.
• Afetoscope is a specialized stethoscope that takes advantage of the concept behind the Pinard Horn and combines it with a stethoscope. While it looks much like a stethoscope, it has a piece that fits against the user’s forehead to conduct the sound for increased sensitivity to subtle sounds. Some practitioners describe the sound of baby’s heartbeat with this device as a ‘wristwatch under a pillow.’ Accurately using the fetoscope takes some practice, and even an experienced healthcare provider may not be able to hear the baby’s heartbeat with it until 18 to 20 weeks.

No matter the method used, healthcare providers have the training and experience to easily locate and interpret your baby’s heartbeat. You may not be able to find the heartbeat with the same ease at home. Factors that can impact whether or not you will be able to hear your baby’s heartbeat include:

• The baby’s position:The heartbeat will be more difficult to locate if your baby’s back is toward your back. Ask your provider for tips on determining how your baby is positioned.
• The amount of amniotic fluid:Too much or too little fluid can impact the quality of sound.
• The location of the placenta:If your placenta is located at the front of the uterus, you may be picking up your own heartbeat rather than your baby’s.
• The point in gestation:The farther along in pregnancy, the more likely you will be to find your baby’s heartbeat.
• The mother’s weight:If a pregna nt mother is overweight, the device may not be sensitive enough to pick up the fetal heartbeat through thicker tissue.

Use caution when monitoring your baby’s heartbeat at home. If you have trouble finding the heartbeat, or if you misinterpret other noises for a heartbeat and think something is wrong, you can add undue stress to your pregnancy. Also, don’t be complacent if other bodily signals tell you something’s not right – even if your baby’s heartbeat seems alright. Tune in to your body, and listen to your intuition.

If you find hearing your baby’s heartbeat reassuring, or want to share the experience with your partner, you may benefit from listening at home. Consider taking your device to a prenatal appointment, and ask your provider to teach you the best way to use it.

Have you used a stethoscope or Doppler at home?

Written by Michelle: writer, editor, Lamaze instructor, lactation consultant, 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 2017. All rights reserved.